Here we are into spring. A promise of new life, and fresh air!
Yesterday I spent more time in my garden. We live on a really steep hill, and I don't have much of a back yard. The apartment in our home gets the access to our back yard, we don't.
There is a huge garden but it is on a really steep slope that you almost fall off of. The builder planted huge grasses on the hill to prevent the hill washing out. Yesterday I spent an hour in the sun, trying to cut the unruly grasses. I would love to plant some veggies on the hill, but alas, I think they would fall to their death!!
Anyways, back to the promise of new life thing............................... I fell off the wagon yesterday. How disappointing!!
I have been learning about my strengths lately. I have learned that I am good at bringing order and developing things. With this strength, comes the ability to see what is not working. This is where I often fall off the wagon. It can be easy for me to see where things are not working and then think, or say judgements that I have no right to make.
God, I'm gonna need some help here!!
I need, and we need His help to keep all things in balance. What a challenge, and quite honestly, we can't do it without Him.
"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.
Lord remind us, this spring, as we enjoy the promise of new life, and each time we look at a branch............. remind us that You are the vine...................... and we can do nothing without You.
Showing posts with label 21 Days - Join The Reformation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 21 Days - Join The Reformation. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Day 20 Of Reformation
One Day Left!!!!
Its been quite a journey.I am learning alot, and yes, I've been flossing my teeth! I am believing that I have formed a habit now.
Kinda silly, everytime I think, that I needed to blog and be accountable in order to floss my teeth!!!! But, I really don't care how it looked, I'm just glad I formed a habit that I had been needing to do for a LONG time.
I wonder if women need this sort of thing more than men?! Probably.
I'm going to keep one post it note up, just to remind myself daily.
Last night I had a practice, and things didn't go so well with the sound. Sound problems can cause alot of frustration, and negative thinking to arise. I had to choose to keep saying, Thank You Jesus for problems! I had to keep redirecting my thoughts onto good things, or productive things.
I really liked Cheryl Levy's blog about thinking. http://selahs-space.blogspot.com/
This is where the judgement thoughts of ourselves or others start. It takes time for us to choose to change our thinking. God is always there to help us, but we must first choose. Whoever said there is a battlefield going on in our minds, was so right!
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things."
Its been quite a journey.I am learning alot, and yes, I've been flossing my teeth! I am believing that I have formed a habit now.
Kinda silly, everytime I think, that I needed to blog and be accountable in order to floss my teeth!!!! But, I really don't care how it looked, I'm just glad I formed a habit that I had been needing to do for a LONG time.
I wonder if women need this sort of thing more than men?! Probably.
I'm going to keep one post it note up, just to remind myself daily.
Last night I had a practice, and things didn't go so well with the sound. Sound problems can cause alot of frustration, and negative thinking to arise. I had to choose to keep saying, Thank You Jesus for problems! I had to keep redirecting my thoughts onto good things, or productive things.
I really liked Cheryl Levy's blog about thinking. http://selahs-space.blogspot.com/
This is where the judgement thoughts of ourselves or others start. It takes time for us to choose to change our thinking. God is always there to help us, but we must first choose. Whoever said there is a battlefield going on in our minds, was so right!
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things."
Monday, March 19, 2007
Day 19 Of Reformation
Back to the grind. Its Monday, second week of March Break for Matt and Lindsay. Lots to do today, and a rehearsal tonight. I get to lead worship again this Sunday, what a joy!
I was created to worship. You were created to worship. The neat thing is that we get to express it in completely unique ways.
I love it that God has uniquely wired each of us, we are "one of a kind".
"O Lord, You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I rise up;
You understand my thoughts from afar. You scrutinize my pathe and my lying down.
You are intimately acquainted with all my ways."
Thank God He knows us well, and He sees us with the perfect eyes of a loving Father. He sees when we blow it, and yet keeps encouraging us to try again.
Hebrews 4
4:15
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are--yet was without sin.
4:16
Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Wherever you are at on your Reformation with God, be encouraged. There are no failures, only more opportunity to run to Him for answers or a new perspective. He sees you with eyes of success, and you are created to worship Him, by telling your stories of His goodness in your life.
I was created to worship. You were created to worship. The neat thing is that we get to express it in completely unique ways.
I love it that God has uniquely wired each of us, we are "one of a kind".
"O Lord, You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I rise up;
You understand my thoughts from afar. You scrutinize my pathe and my lying down.
You are intimately acquainted with all my ways."
Thank God He knows us well, and He sees us with the perfect eyes of a loving Father. He sees when we blow it, and yet keeps encouraging us to try again.
Hebrews 4
4:15
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are--yet was without sin.
4:16
Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Wherever you are at on your Reformation with God, be encouraged. There are no failures, only more opportunity to run to Him for answers or a new perspective. He sees you with eyes of success, and you are created to worship Him, by telling your stories of His goodness in your life.
Sleeping In Seattle - Day 17-18
On the weekend our family took an awesome road trip through the beautiful mountains to go and visit my brother and his wife and new babe, in Seattle.
We got to sleep - in , in Seattle. When we arrived it was a sunny 20 degrees and there were huge pink flowering dogwood trees.
We had lots of fun playing games, talking about our strengths and what God is teaching us.
I hardly had to focus on whether I had any thoughts of judgement because I was too busy enjoying my little nephew, and my kids. We enjoyed venturing down to Pikes Pier Market in downtown Seattle. There were oodles of daffodils and tulips for sale, and I was breathing in the beauty of them all.
Isn't it interesting, that when we set our hearts and minds on viewing all the great things around us, we don't even consider judging? Or maybe, for me, it is because, I have made a choice to focus on other things.
I am grateful for this journey of Reformation that God has had us on. I can't wait to hear all the positive results, and in the future we will see the fruit come forth.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Day 16 Of Reformation
I'm so excited.
I'm not sure why execpt that I can see that God is doing a great work, firstly in myself and all the Reformers. He is the coolest King and Friend.
Yesterday I enjoyed cleaning my garden and seeing all the plants growing. My herbs are growing really well, and I can start eating them by next week. I love digging in the dirt, to try and remember all that was growing last year. Sometimes its good to reminisce about the past. Its good to look back and see "HisStory" To remember what good seeds you have sown, and what will come forth.
He has always been at work in our lives.
I love the scipture in Psalms 143 that says.
"I remember the days of old. I meditate n all Your doings; I muse on the work of Your hands.
I stretch out my hands to You."
I remind myself of this scripture often. Its good to look back, with eyes of gratitude.
Looking back, does not necessarily mean rehearsing past issues or regrets. God's wants us to look back and remember how far He has taken us and what He has done.
This will always give us hope and keep us excited for our bright future in Him.
Remembering and musing on His goodness to us, brings us great joy, and confindence that He will continue to be with us, and continue to transform us.
So, keep going Reformation Team! And look back over the past 16 days and muse on all He has shown you already! They are invaluable, eternal lessons that will set you up for future success!!!
I'm not sure why execpt that I can see that God is doing a great work, firstly in myself and all the Reformers. He is the coolest King and Friend.
Yesterday I enjoyed cleaning my garden and seeing all the plants growing. My herbs are growing really well, and I can start eating them by next week. I love digging in the dirt, to try and remember all that was growing last year. Sometimes its good to reminisce about the past. Its good to look back and see "HisStory" To remember what good seeds you have sown, and what will come forth.
He has always been at work in our lives.
I love the scipture in Psalms 143 that says.
"I remember the days of old. I meditate n all Your doings; I muse on the work of Your hands.
I stretch out my hands to You."
I remind myself of this scripture often. Its good to look back, with eyes of gratitude.
Looking back, does not necessarily mean rehearsing past issues or regrets. God's wants us to look back and remember how far He has taken us and what He has done.
This will always give us hope and keep us excited for our bright future in Him.
Remembering and musing on His goodness to us, brings us great joy, and confindence that He will continue to be with us, and continue to transform us.
So, keep going Reformation Team! And look back over the past 16 days and muse on all He has shown you already! They are invaluable, eternal lessons that will set you up for future success!!!
Day 15
OK Say it with me.................. I LOVE ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I just finished reading a book called Strenghts Finder 2.0 and taking an online test to discover my Strengths. It is an awesome book, and to be honest I was a little scared to take it. Who knows why?
The premise of the book,is to stop focusing on your weaknesses, and learn what your Strengths are, and focus on them, and learn how to best work with what you've got! I love this idea, and I have decided that this is where I want to head in my life.
I am painfully aware of my weaknesses, and I am ready to find out things about myself, and what I am good at.
As I was ready to fall asleep (after I had flossed my teeth!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) I said, "I Love Me" and I really felt the affirmation of the Father and that He was happy to hear me say that.
He said, "Tell all the bloggers I want them to say that about themselves, every day"
So, say it with me "I LOVE ME"
Let's not judge ourselves so harshly, and pick ourselves apart. I am on a Reformation not to speak words of judgement about myself and others. I was filled with joy last night when I found myself thinking those thoughts. It caught me by surprise, and did it ever feel good!
"How precious are Your thoughts towards me O God, how vast is the sum of them, if I were to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand."
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you, Not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."
Say it one more time, just to make Him smile........................... I LOVE ME
I just finished reading a book called Strenghts Finder 2.0 and taking an online test to discover my Strengths. It is an awesome book, and to be honest I was a little scared to take it. Who knows why?
The premise of the book,is to stop focusing on your weaknesses, and learn what your Strengths are, and focus on them, and learn how to best work with what you've got! I love this idea, and I have decided that this is where I want to head in my life.
I am painfully aware of my weaknesses, and I am ready to find out things about myself, and what I am good at.
As I was ready to fall asleep (after I had flossed my teeth!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) I said, "I Love Me" and I really felt the affirmation of the Father and that He was happy to hear me say that.
He said, "Tell all the bloggers I want them to say that about themselves, every day"
So, say it with me "I LOVE ME"
Let's not judge ourselves so harshly, and pick ourselves apart. I am on a Reformation not to speak words of judgement about myself and others. I was filled with joy last night when I found myself thinking those thoughts. It caught me by surprise, and did it ever feel good!
"How precious are Your thoughts towards me O God, how vast is the sum of them, if I were to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand."
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you, Not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."
Say it one more time, just to make Him smile........................... I LOVE ME
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Day 14 Of Reformation
I went to the hairdressers with Alyssa today, and while I was enjoying chatting with her and my hairdresser, we got talking about the Reformation that I am on. He laughed alot and we dialouged about judgement.
I met my hairdresser by an answered prayer. When I moved to Kelowna, I asked God for a divine appointment, and I met Paul. He had literally just given his heart to the Lord, had just come out of a really rough life, and needed encouragement. Long story short, I shared about Jesus freely and openly with him, he met my whole family, starting cutting all of our hair, and then, as usual, we snagged him to come to our home, and be a part of our extended family. 1 year later, he is doing tremendous and God has got him on an awesome upward path. We are so proud of him.
So, as we chatted about judgement today, and he laughed at the times I fell off the wagon. All the while I was leafing through a hairstyle magazine. Paul and I had decided that I was going to grow out my hair a few months ago, but then................ well I saw a funky pixie cut, and he said, Yah! I think you'd look great in that! Alyssa said,"come on mom you're already on a reformation, go all the way. Do something drastic.
Next thing you know I was loosing my locks that I had tried so hard to grow for months. You know what, I'm ready for the change, might as well................. nothing to lose, only great things to gain.
It was customer appreciation day at the salon, so we got a discount, and then I got to pop a balloon to try and win a prize. I decided that I was going to declare my winning. I said, God I am ready for a good win, I want something cool. I ended up getting the best prize of the day.............. FREE highlights.............. then I got to open an easter egg, and got the best gift in the basket! A free travel pack of goodies!!! Kinda cool, and I am learning to speak positive into even the most simplest of situations. Instead of making a judgement and saying , I NEVER WIN, I decided to declare in my heart that I would.
Kinda cool. And I like my cool majorly different haircut ............ I say that in faith, so that tomorrow when I realize how much is gone, I won't freak.
I met my hairdresser by an answered prayer. When I moved to Kelowna, I asked God for a divine appointment, and I met Paul. He had literally just given his heart to the Lord, had just come out of a really rough life, and needed encouragement. Long story short, I shared about Jesus freely and openly with him, he met my whole family, starting cutting all of our hair, and then, as usual, we snagged him to come to our home, and be a part of our extended family. 1 year later, he is doing tremendous and God has got him on an awesome upward path. We are so proud of him.
So, as we chatted about judgement today, and he laughed at the times I fell off the wagon. All the while I was leafing through a hairstyle magazine. Paul and I had decided that I was going to grow out my hair a few months ago, but then................ well I saw a funky pixie cut, and he said, Yah! I think you'd look great in that! Alyssa said,"come on mom you're already on a reformation, go all the way. Do something drastic.
Next thing you know I was loosing my locks that I had tried so hard to grow for months. You know what, I'm ready for the change, might as well................. nothing to lose, only great things to gain.
It was customer appreciation day at the salon, so we got a discount, and then I got to pop a balloon to try and win a prize. I decided that I was going to declare my winning. I said, God I am ready for a good win, I want something cool. I ended up getting the best prize of the day.............. FREE highlights.............. then I got to open an easter egg, and got the best gift in the basket! A free travel pack of goodies!!! Kinda cool, and I am learning to speak positive into even the most simplest of situations. Instead of making a judgement and saying , I NEVER WIN, I decided to declare in my heart that I would.
Kinda cool. And I like my cool majorly different haircut ............ I say that in faith, so that tomorrow when I realize how much is gone, I won't freak.
Day 14 Of Reformation
Last night as I was laying in bed and my hubby was in the bathroom flossing his teeth, he said (in a garbled voice)
"Cheryl!!!!!!!!!!! Did you floss your teeth?/!!!"
My old pattern was to lay in bed listening to him floss, and tell myself that I'm too tired to get up and do it. But alas, last night, I had a feeling that I was going to be too tired, so I went and flossed at about 8pm! Whew! I got the praise of my hubby, and I am beginning to form a habit.
I've been doing lots of meditating and talking with God during this Reformation. He has been speaking to me through other peoples blogs, by His Spirit, through worship, and a myriad of other ways.
OK - brace yourself, I'm gonna be brutally honest now.
He said,
You know its no coincidence that you are forming a habit to floss Cheryl. I've got you cleaning out your mouth. I'm getting rid of the plaque and germs. But you had to choose to allow it to happen. YIKES!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Immediately He reminded me of the scripture that says, "Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks."
Well the truth hurts sometimes, but actually when the truth comes from God's mouth, it is coated with love, and mercy. I would rather hear it from Him than anyone else in the world because I know He always thinks the best of me, and Has good plans for me.
So, I accept His word to me, I see that He is transforming me, and cleaning up my mouth (which comes from the thoughts in my heart) and I am grateful. I am already beginning to feel the outcome, and eventually I will see the fruit of the seeds I am sowing. Spring is coming with the promise of new life! Yay God!!!!
"Cheryl!!!!!!!!!!! Did you floss your teeth?/!!!"
My old pattern was to lay in bed listening to him floss, and tell myself that I'm too tired to get up and do it. But alas, last night, I had a feeling that I was going to be too tired, so I went and flossed at about 8pm! Whew! I got the praise of my hubby, and I am beginning to form a habit.
I've been doing lots of meditating and talking with God during this Reformation. He has been speaking to me through other peoples blogs, by His Spirit, through worship, and a myriad of other ways.
OK - brace yourself, I'm gonna be brutally honest now.
He said,
You know its no coincidence that you are forming a habit to floss Cheryl. I've got you cleaning out your mouth. I'm getting rid of the plaque and germs. But you had to choose to allow it to happen. YIKES!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Immediately He reminded me of the scripture that says, "Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks."
Well the truth hurts sometimes, but actually when the truth comes from God's mouth, it is coated with love, and mercy. I would rather hear it from Him than anyone else in the world because I know He always thinks the best of me, and Has good plans for me.
So, I accept His word to me, I see that He is transforming me, and cleaning up my mouth (which comes from the thoughts in my heart) and I am grateful. I am already beginning to feel the outcome, and eventually I will see the fruit of the seeds I am sowing. Spring is coming with the promise of new life! Yay God!!!!
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Day 12 of Reformation
WONDERFUL QUOTES FROM JACK DEERE'S TAPE:
JUDGMENT
http://jackdeere.com/
• When does an evaluation become a judgment? It becomes judgment when it has no mercy and takes away the hope.
• If we see someone do something wrong and anger rises up in our hearts, it is almost always judgment.
• If we see someone doing something wrong and prayer rises up in our hearts, that is right and acceptable.
• We don't close our eyes to it. Love and judgment see the same sins, but they have different attitudes.
• If you see someone you really love do something wrong, you want to help them by praying for them.
• Mercy triumphs over judgment.
• Judgment robs us of joy and the joy of our salvation. You will never see a book called the happy Pharisee. They were the judges and they will never be happy. They are always preoccupied with the negative and critical.
• Judgment guarantees we will be judged, causes us to live in the past and robs us of joy. Judgment grieves and offends the Lord.
• If all you have is discipline, it will either leave you bitter or a Pharisee. You must have the passion and love side of the Lord too. Serving Him out of discipline only is death. You must have a passion for a person, greater than performance.
JUDGMENT
http://jackdeere.com/
• When does an evaluation become a judgment? It becomes judgment when it has no mercy and takes away the hope.
• If we see someone do something wrong and anger rises up in our hearts, it is almost always judgment.
• If we see someone doing something wrong and prayer rises up in our hearts, that is right and acceptable.
• We don't close our eyes to it. Love and judgment see the same sins, but they have different attitudes.
• If you see someone you really love do something wrong, you want to help them by praying for them.
• Mercy triumphs over judgment.
• Judgment robs us of joy and the joy of our salvation. You will never see a book called the happy Pharisee. They were the judges and they will never be happy. They are always preoccupied with the negative and critical.
• Judgment guarantees we will be judged, causes us to live in the past and robs us of joy. Judgment grieves and offends the Lord.
• If all you have is discipline, it will either leave you bitter or a Pharisee. You must have the passion and love side of the Lord too. Serving Him out of discipline only is death. You must have a passion for a person, greater than performance.
Day 12 and 13 Of Reformation
I had the best day yesterday!!
For starters, on the first day of 2 weeks of March Break, I slept in til 9:30 am!!!!!!
For 17 years March Breaks have been a big challenge for me, due to the great care that Lindsay has needed. What a treat it was to sleep in. We had a beautiful warm 15 degree day here in Kelowna, and I enjoyed seeing all the plants starting to come up, and noticed grass starting to turn green.
Yesterday was Lindsay's Open House. I cried tears of joy all the way to the home, and most of the afternoon. It was such an awesome celebration. It is such a miraculous story, that I have decided to wait, and create a separate blog for Lindsay's story because it is so great.
The home was decked out with streamers and balloons, and photos of Lindsay. There were loads of people there, and the head of Bethesda homes came down from the coast to celebrate with us. We had a little dedication program, and prayed a prayer of blessing over Lindsays life at our new 2nd home. It was so cool because there were people there that were not Christians, and got to see God's miraculous love in action. Everyone loved her flower-power room, and I smiled, and cried tears of joy all day.
They had a huge spread of cold meats and dips and veggies and crackers and fresh fruit, and special cookies in the shape of the letter L. They had a big welcome cake, and tons of treats. It was soooooooooooooo awesome! And I didn't have to do a thing.
I have posted just a few pictures for you to view and will do more on Lindsay's site once I have time. For years now, we have said that Lindsay has the life of a princess. She is our princess, but most importantly she is God's.
She has everything taken care of for her, she gets fed, and bathed, and clothed and pushed around in her little princess-mobile! What a great life she has.
No worries, no anger, no hatred, nothing but love and smiles. She is so rich! And I am rich because of her.
My heart was so overwhelmed with joy from the Father, that the judgement thing was not an issue at all. Interesting huh? what gratitude will do (thanks Holly)
For starters, on the first day of 2 weeks of March Break, I slept in til 9:30 am!!!!!!
For 17 years March Breaks have been a big challenge for me, due to the great care that Lindsay has needed. What a treat it was to sleep in. We had a beautiful warm 15 degree day here in Kelowna, and I enjoyed seeing all the plants starting to come up, and noticed grass starting to turn green.
Yesterday was Lindsay's Open House. I cried tears of joy all the way to the home, and most of the afternoon. It was such an awesome celebration. It is such a miraculous story, that I have decided to wait, and create a separate blog for Lindsay's story because it is so great.
The home was decked out with streamers and balloons, and photos of Lindsay. There were loads of people there, and the head of Bethesda homes came down from the coast to celebrate with us. We had a little dedication program, and prayed a prayer of blessing over Lindsays life at our new 2nd home. It was so cool because there were people there that were not Christians, and got to see God's miraculous love in action. Everyone loved her flower-power room, and I smiled, and cried tears of joy all day.
They had a huge spread of cold meats and dips and veggies and crackers and fresh fruit, and special cookies in the shape of the letter L. They had a big welcome cake, and tons of treats. It was soooooooooooooo awesome! And I didn't have to do a thing.
I have posted just a few pictures for you to view and will do more on Lindsay's site once I have time. For years now, we have said that Lindsay has the life of a princess. She is our princess, but most importantly she is God's.
She has everything taken care of for her, she gets fed, and bathed, and clothed and pushed around in her little princess-mobile! What a great life she has.
No worries, no anger, no hatred, nothing but love and smiles. She is so rich! And I am rich because of her.
My heart was so overwhelmed with joy from the Father, that the judgement thing was not an issue at all. Interesting huh? what gratitude will do (thanks Holly)
Monday, March 12, 2007
Day 11 Of Reformation
The Heat Is On!!!!
Well blogging reformers! Sorry I'm a day late in writing about Day 11.
Sid and I spent the entire day mentoring people. What a joy! We had one couple drive from Vancouver to come and be mentored, and then had a number of other local mentorship meetings.
It is becoming more clear to us the future direction that God has for us, and this makes me excited.
I have come to realize that the "HEAT IS ON"
The heat of His Light, is putting pressure on us, and illuminating things in all of our hearts.
God, in His kindness, allows us to experience situations that have an opportunity for us to bless or walk in judgement.
This has definitely been the case for me. But admidst it all, the frustrating moments, the moments when I feel the burning anger of injustice, the moments of misunderstanding.................. I am beginning to feel this little flicker of hope and choice.
I get to choose, I get to choose to partner with Him, and get His perspective, or better yet, leave it with Him. Now, I haven't done too good with this thing in the past, but I am beginning to feel the freedom of this truth.
There is a great sense of power in just knowing that I get to choose to partner with God (who ALWAYS wins by the way!) (Just not how we think it should happen)
This reformation thing is beginning to strike me quite funny. He set me up, and well, so what?!!!
Through this I have been able to be vulnerable and real with those around me. Yesterday in our mentorship meetings, I was able to be real about my reformation journey, and the whole judgement thing. It hit a strong cord with all who heard, and by the end, I was once again recommending the book to more who are longing for reformation.
Thank you God! Thank you for what you are doing in us, that will ripple beyond our lives, and into those around us. Help us to partner with you, help us to choose, and help us to laugh at ourselves along the way.
PS- Today is Day 12. Its a day of celebration of God's provision for my daugther Lindsay, and I will write about it later today. Be prepared for a miraculous story!
Well blogging reformers! Sorry I'm a day late in writing about Day 11.
Sid and I spent the entire day mentoring people. What a joy! We had one couple drive from Vancouver to come and be mentored, and then had a number of other local mentorship meetings.
It is becoming more clear to us the future direction that God has for us, and this makes me excited.
I have come to realize that the "HEAT IS ON"
The heat of His Light, is putting pressure on us, and illuminating things in all of our hearts.
God, in His kindness, allows us to experience situations that have an opportunity for us to bless or walk in judgement.
This has definitely been the case for me. But admidst it all, the frustrating moments, the moments when I feel the burning anger of injustice, the moments of misunderstanding.................. I am beginning to feel this little flicker of hope and choice.
I get to choose, I get to choose to partner with Him, and get His perspective, or better yet, leave it with Him. Now, I haven't done too good with this thing in the past, but I am beginning to feel the freedom of this truth.
There is a great sense of power in just knowing that I get to choose to partner with God (who ALWAYS wins by the way!) (Just not how we think it should happen)
This reformation thing is beginning to strike me quite funny. He set me up, and well, so what?!!!
Through this I have been able to be vulnerable and real with those around me. Yesterday in our mentorship meetings, I was able to be real about my reformation journey, and the whole judgement thing. It hit a strong cord with all who heard, and by the end, I was once again recommending the book to more who are longing for reformation.
Thank you God! Thank you for what you are doing in us, that will ripple beyond our lives, and into those around us. Help us to partner with you, help us to choose, and help us to laugh at ourselves along the way.
PS- Today is Day 12. Its a day of celebration of God's provision for my daugther Lindsay, and I will write about it later today. Be prepared for a miraculous story!
Saturday, March 10, 2007
PS - For Day 10
I forgot to mention one other funny thing about the flossing!
Last night a man, who has been reading the blog, said he tried the flossing reformation but couldn't get the floss to work. He said he kept trying but it wouldn't go in between his teeth at all.
Then he remembered........................... oh ya! I have dentures!
Thanks for the laugh Graham.
Last night a man, who has been reading the blog, said he tried the flossing reformation but couldn't get the floss to work. He said he kept trying but it wouldn't go in between his teeth at all.
Then he remembered........................... oh ya! I have dentures!
Thanks for the laugh Graham.
Day 10 Of Reformation
OK, maybe I've taken this accountability thing to far! lol!
Last night I was at a birthday party for a dear friend, and a bunch of people asked me if I had been flossing my teeth!!How funny is this????!!
Interstingly enough, on my way to the party, I stopped at a store and got some more floss. Whew!
Others who were listening where perplexed as to why we were talking about me flossing my teeth!!!! So, I had to explain my reformation to others, and we laughed, and yacked about judgement, and caught ourselves all night as we chatted. Every once in a while someone would cringe and go, " oops I think I might have just said a judgement !" Now, this is my idea of a reformation! To be able to laugh at ourselves, and give grace, all the while secretly asking God to "HELP!" under our breath.
So, for all who fell off the wagon this week, NO BS, No Blame, NO Shame. Just wipe the dust off and keep going.
PS- For dear sweet prego, puking Amy - if I were you, just the sight of the treadmill would make me want to hurl. Nurse Cheryl says - take another day off! You probably exercise enough running after Hannah and Isaiah!!!
Last night I was at a birthday party for a dear friend, and a bunch of people asked me if I had been flossing my teeth!!How funny is this????!!
Interstingly enough, on my way to the party, I stopped at a store and got some more floss. Whew!
Others who were listening where perplexed as to why we were talking about me flossing my teeth!!!! So, I had to explain my reformation to others, and we laughed, and yacked about judgement, and caught ourselves all night as we chatted. Every once in a while someone would cringe and go, " oops I think I might have just said a judgement !" Now, this is my idea of a reformation! To be able to laugh at ourselves, and give grace, all the while secretly asking God to "HELP!" under our breath.
So, for all who fell off the wagon this week, NO BS, No Blame, NO Shame. Just wipe the dust off and keep going.
PS- For dear sweet prego, puking Amy - if I were you, just the sight of the treadmill would make me want to hurl. Nurse Cheryl says - take another day off! You probably exercise enough running after Hannah and Isaiah!!!
Friday, March 9, 2007
Day 9 Of Reformation
Well, I've had lots of opportunity to be tested on this reformation thing in the past 2 days, and there have been a number of times I fell off the wagon. This is a hard one, and obviously necessary. If I could just stay in a bubble by myself it might be easier................. but alas,
"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another."
I could choose to hide it, but I'd best bring it into the light, and be accountable so that I can pass this test (that I willingly chose!)
On top of it all, my husband went away taking the only floss in the house, so I did not get to floss my teeth last night. Boy I cried over that one (NOT) Now I can blame it on my hubby! LOL Those poor guys, they get the blame for alot of things sometimes.
Not much else to report, when you are perservering, sometimes there are no feelings, just a sense to keep up the tenacious spirit and press in and onward.
I spent all day painting flowers on Lindsay's walls in her new room. As usual, I procrastinated, and did the base colors and then left it for a month. Her open house is on Monday and I realized I had 2 days to finish all the fiddly painting. You'd think I'd learn. Maybe I just do better under pressure, who knows. I ran out of paint as I was doing the last flower. I'll take photos next week to show you all. Cindy Chilvers says I'm living my "surpressed flower-child" life through Lindsay. lol
It has been beautiful and sunny here all week, highs of 10-14 degrees. Walmart has there perennials out, and the tulips are popping up. Hooray for spring!
This will be my first March Break without the care of Lindsay and I will be able to enjoy normal March Break activities, how awesome.
Well, I'm rambling....................... keep pressing in team, and if you're doing well, then let up a prayer for me, so I can keep pressing onward and upward.
"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another."
I could choose to hide it, but I'd best bring it into the light, and be accountable so that I can pass this test (that I willingly chose!)
On top of it all, my husband went away taking the only floss in the house, so I did not get to floss my teeth last night. Boy I cried over that one (NOT) Now I can blame it on my hubby! LOL Those poor guys, they get the blame for alot of things sometimes.
Not much else to report, when you are perservering, sometimes there are no feelings, just a sense to keep up the tenacious spirit and press in and onward.
I spent all day painting flowers on Lindsay's walls in her new room. As usual, I procrastinated, and did the base colors and then left it for a month. Her open house is on Monday and I realized I had 2 days to finish all the fiddly painting. You'd think I'd learn. Maybe I just do better under pressure, who knows. I ran out of paint as I was doing the last flower. I'll take photos next week to show you all. Cindy Chilvers says I'm living my "surpressed flower-child" life through Lindsay. lol
It has been beautiful and sunny here all week, highs of 10-14 degrees. Walmart has there perennials out, and the tulips are popping up. Hooray for spring!
This will be my first March Break without the care of Lindsay and I will be able to enjoy normal March Break activities, how awesome.
Well, I'm rambling....................... keep pressing in team, and if you're doing well, then let up a prayer for me, so I can keep pressing onward and upward.
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Day 8 Of Reformation
I almost fell off the wagon today. It was quite disappointing. Maybe I shouldn't have said that it has been easier than I expected.
Only a few hours after I wrote that, a situation came my way, that I had no power over, but it was a tremendous opportunity to be offended. From the book I am reading, I have come to understand that obviously offenses will come, but I can enter into judgement when I begin to think I know WHY someone did what they did, or said what they said. That moves into assumptions, and judgement.
Right before this happened, God began to teach me and speak a cool idea to me. If you want to know more about that, visit my other blog.
Today was a hard one, firstly because I was hurt, and secondly, because I found my mind automatically trying to rationalize why.
Sometimes I ask way to many why questions. Then, it is easy for me to move a step further and view situations as a rejection of who I am etc. This is a wrong road to go down, and truth be told, it was a hard one for me today. I didn't have the grace to laugh at myself today. I did speak in tongues and I had to release forgiveness (a few times) and then kept speaking out loud to myself, and praying lots, asking God for His perspective.
Then, I talked with my hubby, and got busy preparing a big meal.
By the time this reformation is done, I'm gonna have to start another one for my weight, and emotional eating issues! Ha! No............ I'm not kidding, I'm serious! Oh well, one step at a time.
There is a great victory in all of this, that I have yet to see. It make take a long time to see the fruit of this, but it does not change that I will reap a harvest of righteousness.
Gal. 6:7-9
Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.
For he that soweth unto his own flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth unto the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap eternal life.
And let us not be weary in well-doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
Today, I must choose to look back on all that He has taught me for the past 8 days.
I need to remind myself to love, as He loves. I need to choose. I need to forgive others and myself. I need to keep believing that I can be transformed, by His Spirit that is at work within me, despite what I see, and despite how I feel.
This is my promise from Him, this is our promise.
Isaiah 40:28-31
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall;
But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Keep walking reformers, keep asking for strength, He has an unlimited supply.
Only a few hours after I wrote that, a situation came my way, that I had no power over, but it was a tremendous opportunity to be offended. From the book I am reading, I have come to understand that obviously offenses will come, but I can enter into judgement when I begin to think I know WHY someone did what they did, or said what they said. That moves into assumptions, and judgement.
Right before this happened, God began to teach me and speak a cool idea to me. If you want to know more about that, visit my other blog.
Today was a hard one, firstly because I was hurt, and secondly, because I found my mind automatically trying to rationalize why.
Sometimes I ask way to many why questions. Then, it is easy for me to move a step further and view situations as a rejection of who I am etc. This is a wrong road to go down, and truth be told, it was a hard one for me today. I didn't have the grace to laugh at myself today. I did speak in tongues and I had to release forgiveness (a few times) and then kept speaking out loud to myself, and praying lots, asking God for His perspective.
Then, I talked with my hubby, and got busy preparing a big meal.
By the time this reformation is done, I'm gonna have to start another one for my weight, and emotional eating issues! Ha! No............ I'm not kidding, I'm serious! Oh well, one step at a time.
There is a great victory in all of this, that I have yet to see. It make take a long time to see the fruit of this, but it does not change that I will reap a harvest of righteousness.
Gal. 6:7-9
Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.
For he that soweth unto his own flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth unto the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap eternal life.
And let us not be weary in well-doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
Today, I must choose to look back on all that He has taught me for the past 8 days.
I need to remind myself to love, as He loves. I need to choose. I need to forgive others and myself. I need to keep believing that I can be transformed, by His Spirit that is at work within me, despite what I see, and despite how I feel.
This is my promise from Him, this is our promise.
Isaiah 40:28-31
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall;
But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Keep walking reformers, keep asking for strength, He has an unlimited supply.
Day 7 Of Reformation
I love my life.
I cannot believe how much joy I have been feeling since this reformation began. Truthfully, alot of it probably has to do with the fact that I now have help for Lindsay.
Next week the home is having an Open House to welcome her and us to their family. It will be a God day, a prophetic day. I am very excited about it because it is a day to celebrate His miraculous provision. I have to choose to keep looking at it this way, on the days that I really miss her, or worse yet, feel guilty.
Last Friday night, I was not able to get to the home to see her, and so I called her to talk to her. Well, really talk at her, cause she never answers me back.
Its really hard to keep a conversation going on the phone with someone who doesn't make any sounds back!! Anyways, I got off the phone and cried, telling Alyssa how much I missed her. She said, "Mom, lets just go down there then"
I knew this time, I needed not to, because if I did, I would be responding out of guilt, instead of just wanting to. So, I let myself cry, spoke life over myself and chose to reject any feelings of judgement about what kind of mom I was.
Even as I am writing this, somehow the words are really blurry and there is wet stuff on my cheeks. How annoying! How did I get here? I started with saying, I love my life, and now I'm crying! There goes Jehovah sneaky again! It only takes Him a moment to go deep and bring healing. I love that about Him.
I have had the best 7 days, it has been much easier than I expected. Don't you love it that God's power is perfected in our weakness. It really takes all the pressure off, and allows us to just follow and obey His promtings.
I have more to say, but I'll put that on my regular blog.
Keep pressing in team!
Thank You God! You make my life great!
I cannot believe how much joy I have been feeling since this reformation began. Truthfully, alot of it probably has to do with the fact that I now have help for Lindsay.
Next week the home is having an Open House to welcome her and us to their family. It will be a God day, a prophetic day. I am very excited about it because it is a day to celebrate His miraculous provision. I have to choose to keep looking at it this way, on the days that I really miss her, or worse yet, feel guilty.
Last Friday night, I was not able to get to the home to see her, and so I called her to talk to her. Well, really talk at her, cause she never answers me back.
Its really hard to keep a conversation going on the phone with someone who doesn't make any sounds back!! Anyways, I got off the phone and cried, telling Alyssa how much I missed her. She said, "Mom, lets just go down there then"
I knew this time, I needed not to, because if I did, I would be responding out of guilt, instead of just wanting to. So, I let myself cry, spoke life over myself and chose to reject any feelings of judgement about what kind of mom I was.
Even as I am writing this, somehow the words are really blurry and there is wet stuff on my cheeks. How annoying! How did I get here? I started with saying, I love my life, and now I'm crying! There goes Jehovah sneaky again! It only takes Him a moment to go deep and bring healing. I love that about Him.
I have had the best 7 days, it has been much easier than I expected. Don't you love it that God's power is perfected in our weakness. It really takes all the pressure off, and allows us to just follow and obey His promtings.
I have more to say, but I'll put that on my regular blog.
Keep pressing in team!
Thank You God! You make my life great!
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Day 6 Of Reformation
I was really tired last night and did NOT want to floss my teeth at all!!!!!!!!! But the post it notes and my hubby were staring me down. I whined through the whole event, and let out a big sigh when I was completed!
"There! I'm done!" Behind me in a soft voice my hubby said, " It only takes a few moments Cheryl" I know, I know, but I wanted to be lazy. So, to reward myself, I took the sticky note off the mirror that said "Good Job!!!"
I am amazed at how much God is helping me in the judgement department! I do speak in tongues and pray alot though.
I let another general judgement out of my mouth today, and my friend Cindy (who is visiting me) said immediately, "So do you think that will count as a judgement? ARGH!!!! Yup, I laughed and said, I repent Lord!
There was a guy driving in reverse down a sharp curve which is on a steep hill on my street and he was moving at a fast pace right in the middle of the road, and I almost hit him. There are tons of trucks out here in the West. I said, "Boys and their trucks, they're so stupid!!!!" Wooops did I say that?!!!!!!!!!
When I was thinking about something that was bothering me, I thought some other judgemental thoughts, but I didn't go as far to say them, and I asked God to forgive me, and I chose to change the focus of my thoughts.
God is showing me how to think about myself and the circumstances that I am directly involved in. I have the power to choose what I focus on.
Proverbs 18:21
The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
Deuteronomy 11:26
See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse--
Each day is a brand new opportunity to focus on His goodness, on what He is doing, and what He wants me to do to partner with Him. Kinda cool that the creator of the universe invites us to be a part of what He is doing.
"There! I'm done!" Behind me in a soft voice my hubby said, " It only takes a few moments Cheryl" I know, I know, but I wanted to be lazy. So, to reward myself, I took the sticky note off the mirror that said "Good Job!!!"
I am amazed at how much God is helping me in the judgement department! I do speak in tongues and pray alot though.
I let another general judgement out of my mouth today, and my friend Cindy (who is visiting me) said immediately, "So do you think that will count as a judgement? ARGH!!!! Yup, I laughed and said, I repent Lord!
There was a guy driving in reverse down a sharp curve which is on a steep hill on my street and he was moving at a fast pace right in the middle of the road, and I almost hit him. There are tons of trucks out here in the West. I said, "Boys and their trucks, they're so stupid!!!!" Wooops did I say that?!!!!!!!!!
When I was thinking about something that was bothering me, I thought some other judgemental thoughts, but I didn't go as far to say them, and I asked God to forgive me, and I chose to change the focus of my thoughts.
God is showing me how to think about myself and the circumstances that I am directly involved in. I have the power to choose what I focus on.
Proverbs 18:21
The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
Deuteronomy 11:26
See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse--
Each day is a brand new opportunity to focus on His goodness, on what He is doing, and what He wants me to do to partner with Him. Kinda cool that the creator of the universe invites us to be a part of what He is doing.
Monday, March 5, 2007
Day 5 0f Reformation
We really have no idea how much we are loved by the Father.
I can't tell you how many times I have heard these type of comments in Christian circles over the past number of years, but I guess we are all a little thick, and have needed it repeated until we get it.
In this 21 Day Reformation I have an overwhelming sense, not only for myself, but for all who are involved, both publicly and secretly, that He is revealing His love to us in brand new ways. Although we are all making choices of reformation, I am keenly aware of His overwhelming love that is being poured out upon all of us.
If we were God, how would we respond to our failures? Shame, blame, condemnation, etc. That's why we aren't God.............. thank God!!!!
My girlfriend has a saying: "NO BS" - With God, there is no Blame or Shame.
He wants to give us brand new eyesight. He wants us to look at ourselves and others with His eyes of love.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
I can't tell you how many times I have heard these type of comments in Christian circles over the past number of years, but I guess we are all a little thick, and have needed it repeated until we get it.
In this 21 Day Reformation I have an overwhelming sense, not only for myself, but for all who are involved, both publicly and secretly, that He is revealing His love to us in brand new ways. Although we are all making choices of reformation, I am keenly aware of His overwhelming love that is being poured out upon all of us.
If we were God, how would we respond to our failures? Shame, blame, condemnation, etc. That's why we aren't God.............. thank God!!!!
My girlfriend has a saying: "NO BS" - With God, there is no Blame or Shame.
He wants to give us brand new eyesight. He wants us to look at ourselves and others with His eyes of love.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Sunday, March 4, 2007
Day 4 0f Reformation
I am truly excited to see how God is moving through my blogger friends. Isn't it great to know that His power is perfected through our weaknesses.
I am doing well so far. Each evening I proudly tell my husband that I flossed my teeth, and like a little child I expect his praise. Quite silly really.............. all over my procrastination to floss. But I don't care, as long as I see results.
Today I lead worship with a brand new band. I decided yesterday that I was not going to critique myself to death after leading. Often, in my insecurities, I overanalyze how the service went , what I said etc. I decided that I would choose not to go down that road. Instead I chose to focus on where He was moving and the sweetness of His presence, and just to allow Him to gently speak any words of wisdom to me. It was great, and a lot less painful and self- involved (which is pride)
I caught myself a few times again today moving into judgement, and speaking in tongues seems to help me. I have to admit though, I let a big one slip out of my mouth.
Today there was a pedestrian crossing in front of our car, and she scowled at us, as though we should have stopped sooner. In Kelowna, pedestrians rule over anything. Anyways, as I scowled back at her, I said,
"No one with legs that big should wear a skirt that short!!"" Yikes, that was a nasty one!
I had to repent right then. I was thinking very judgemental thoughts about her, and really had no right. Like I'm the fashion police or something! The only person who might be able to get away with a comment like that is Stacey on "What Not To Wear"
In Luke 6:37 Jesus said,
Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
Even though this is a hard, true fact from Jesus, even this scripture gives a promise of forgiveness that we all need, lots every day. When I think of the power of repentance and the gift of His forgiveness, I can't help but be excited about this 21 journey.
It is a tremendous journey we are all on, and I am so excited for all of the Reformation team.
"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Gal. 6:9
Keep going team, keep pressing in, don't loose heart or grow wear
I am doing well so far. Each evening I proudly tell my husband that I flossed my teeth, and like a little child I expect his praise. Quite silly really.............. all over my procrastination to floss. But I don't care, as long as I see results.
Today I lead worship with a brand new band. I decided yesterday that I was not going to critique myself to death after leading. Often, in my insecurities, I overanalyze how the service went , what I said etc. I decided that I would choose not to go down that road. Instead I chose to focus on where He was moving and the sweetness of His presence, and just to allow Him to gently speak any words of wisdom to me. It was great, and a lot less painful and self- involved (which is pride)
I caught myself a few times again today moving into judgement, and speaking in tongues seems to help me. I have to admit though, I let a big one slip out of my mouth.
Today there was a pedestrian crossing in front of our car, and she scowled at us, as though we should have stopped sooner. In Kelowna, pedestrians rule over anything. Anyways, as I scowled back at her, I said,
"No one with legs that big should wear a skirt that short!!"" Yikes, that was a nasty one!
I had to repent right then. I was thinking very judgemental thoughts about her, and really had no right. Like I'm the fashion police or something! The only person who might be able to get away with a comment like that is Stacey on "What Not To Wear"
In Luke 6:37 Jesus said,
Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
Even though this is a hard, true fact from Jesus, even this scripture gives a promise of forgiveness that we all need, lots every day. When I think of the power of repentance and the gift of His forgiveness, I can't help but be excited about this 21 journey.
It is a tremendous journey we are all on, and I am so excited for all of the Reformation team.
"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Gal. 6:9
Keep going team, keep pressing in, don't loose heart or grow wear
Saturday, March 3, 2007
Day 3 - Of Reformation
OK Team,
Here we are at Day 3. Little did we all know that this reformation would bring so much stuff up to the surface so quickly.
I had been pondering the effects of self judgements as well as judgements of others for a few weeks now. It will be a life long journey towards this Reformation.
This morning I felt like the Lord wanted me to remind you that we are not trying to obtain perfection. We need to expect that we will make errors on this journey and we will make mistakes. So what?!!!! I of all people hate making mistakes, and God has been trying to help me with this fear. What exactly am I afraid of?
Here is are 2 portions from the book I am reading.
Confucius, a Chinese theical teacher and philosopher who lived from 551-479 BC, said,
"Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."
The writer of Proverbs said it this way:
"Though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises again, but the wicked are brought down by calamity" Prov.24:16
When asked how he felt about his ten thousand failed attemps to create the ligth bulb, Thomas Edison repsonded, " I have not failed. I have just found ten thousand ways that don't work. I am not discouraged, because every wrong attempt discarded is another stop forward."
Perfectionism is a torment based on fear. Fear is the fruit of not experiencing love. The perfectionist fears judgement.
As we move on this journey of reformation, we need to understand that we are deeply and unconditionally loved by God. It is so great that we cannot begin to comprehend it. The only way we can be truly transformed is as we accept this love, and in turn give grace to ourselves and others.
I encourage you to let yourself make mistakes, knowing that it is not failure. It is an opportunity to learn and grow.
There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. 1 John 4:18
Each time you are facing discouragement, draw near to Jesus, so close that you can hear His heart beating with passionate love for you. Then, ask Jesus what He thinks, ask Him who He says that you are. Hang onto those thoughts as you journey through your day. They will bring hope and lift your heart.
Here we are at Day 3. Little did we all know that this reformation would bring so much stuff up to the surface so quickly.
I had been pondering the effects of self judgements as well as judgements of others for a few weeks now. It will be a life long journey towards this Reformation.
This morning I felt like the Lord wanted me to remind you that we are not trying to obtain perfection. We need to expect that we will make errors on this journey and we will make mistakes. So what?!!!! I of all people hate making mistakes, and God has been trying to help me with this fear. What exactly am I afraid of?
Here is are 2 portions from the book I am reading.
Confucius, a Chinese theical teacher and philosopher who lived from 551-479 BC, said,
"Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."
The writer of Proverbs said it this way:
"Though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises again, but the wicked are brought down by calamity" Prov.24:16
When asked how he felt about his ten thousand failed attemps to create the ligth bulb, Thomas Edison repsonded, " I have not failed. I have just found ten thousand ways that don't work. I am not discouraged, because every wrong attempt discarded is another stop forward."
Perfectionism is a torment based on fear. Fear is the fruit of not experiencing love. The perfectionist fears judgement.
As we move on this journey of reformation, we need to understand that we are deeply and unconditionally loved by God. It is so great that we cannot begin to comprehend it. The only way we can be truly transformed is as we accept this love, and in turn give grace to ourselves and others.
I encourage you to let yourself make mistakes, knowing that it is not failure. It is an opportunity to learn and grow.
There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. 1 John 4:18
Each time you are facing discouragement, draw near to Jesus, so close that you can hear His heart beating with passionate love for you. Then, ask Jesus what He thinks, ask Him who He says that you are. Hang onto those thoughts as you journey through your day. They will bring hope and lift your heart.
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