tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51330652663539110742024-03-13T09:07:17.937-07:00Paula MoweryPassing on a Godly legacyPaula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.comBlogger416125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-60294055821788559252018-02-24T14:51:00.000-08:002018-02-24T14:51:02.836-08:00Why Did God Do That? <br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, serif;">This is a reprint of a blog post from Putting on the New, a group blog I post to every 20th of the month. But I just wanted to share this with those of you readers here as well. </span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Georgia","serif";">Working in a high school, last week’s topic was all about the
tragedy in Florida. The kids talked about it. The administration called
meetings about it. And we all thought about it.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Georgia","serif";">It was interesting to listen to the students and even adults
talk about their feelings. Naturally, you tend to hear the classic: Why did God
do that? Or, Why did God allow that? Or, How can a loving God allow bad things
like that to happen?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Georgia","serif";">My pastor/hubby addressed this in his sermon on Sunday. There
was a particular statement that stood out to me: God gets blamed for people
making wrong choices or decisions.</span></b><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Georgia","serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Georgia","serif";">This is true! We all have freedom to choose good or bad. Because
there are those people who don’t follow God and choose evil, bad things happen.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Georgia","serif";">God didn’t cause that young man to go into that school and shoot
people, but He did allow it. Why? Again, we are given the freedom to choose
right from wrong. And there are people who follow an evil path, prodded by the
devil.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Georgia","serif";">Yeah, some would say because I said that the devil prodded the
young man on, I am crazy. But the devil is said to be one to steal, kill, and
destroy. He wants nothing more than for someone to go against God. This is
satan’s whole mission.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Georgia","serif";">Even when someone does such an evil act, God picks up the pieces
for His children.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Georgia","serif";">“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those
who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Georgia","serif";">Precious sisters and brothers in Christ, we live in a fallen
world. But we have hope in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We may have to
endure trials and tragedies, but God can bring good from it for His children.
And ultimately, we know we have the hope of glory – heaven awaits us. And the
devil already knows his destiny too. He loses. But we win!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Georgia","serif";">So don’t be discouraged and think God doesn’t care. He loves us
with an everlasting love. Don’t blame Him for the evil done by people. But do
count on Him to comfort and be near and bring something good from it.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br />Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-78938760776329596322018-02-17T13:46:00.001-08:002018-02-17T13:46:48.830-08:00My WayThis week I finished the Nancy DeMoss book called Surrender. Here's some things that stuck out to me.<br />
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"Jesus said: 'Why do you call me Lord, Lord and do not do what I say?'" Luke 6:46<br />
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"In other words: Why do you claim that I am in charge of your life but you run your life as if you were in charge? You don't ask me what I want you to do, and even when you know what I want you to do, you still insist on doing it your way!"<br />
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OUCH! Anybody else get their toes stomped on with those two quotes?<br />
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Ultimately and in many instances, I do allow Jesus have to control. But there are those times when I pull back a bit. It's like I don't fully trust that He has the best for me and what is in my best interest.<br />
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Suppose His best for me right now isn't comfortable? I might need to go through a trial of some sort to learn the next lesson He has for me. However, in my humanness I would prefer to avoid that which might cause me any kind of pain or uncomfortable feeling.<br />
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As I typed those words, admitting them, I realize just how pouty that sounds. Jesus endured much for me in the areas of pain and uncomfortable moments. I will never have to endure anything close to what He did for me.<br />
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And yet, here I am still holding back sometimes like I could "test" and see if I really want to jump all the way into surrender. Nope, that ain't it. Yes, I just said ain't.<br />
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DeMoss says, "the will of God is exactly what we would choose if we knew what God knows." But I don't know. That's where the trust and faith come in.<br />
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Surrender is bowing the knee to God. Not compromising or holding back. Giving Him all of me.<br />
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Praying that God will help with total surrender to Him and His way.<br />
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How about you? Do you find yourself hesitant or resist in some ways? Share in the comments. Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-74315077736852826962018-02-09T15:20:00.002-08:002018-02-09T15:20:36.756-08:00Trust or Tyranny?Here's the newest hit-me-between-the-eyes quote from DeMoss' Surrender book:<br />
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"Trust the promises of God or live under the tyranny of that which you will not surrender."<br />
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DeMoss states that God wants us to experience provision, pleasure, protection, and personal relationships - but these are to be sought in Him.<br />
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The author also states that God doesn't want us to settle for substitutes for the real thing.<br />
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My dear friends, I so want to be able to get the real things when it comes to these areas of my life. But my trust wanes sometimes.<br />
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PROVISION - Will He give me things I think I need? Will He provide the way I want?<br />
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PLEASURE - Will He let me enjoy the things I want to? Will He make me give up things I don't want to?<br />
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PROTECTION - Will He allow sickness into my life or the lives of those I love? How is that protection?<br />
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PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS - Will He make me pray His total will be done in the lives of my family?<br />
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Did you see how often the word me appears? Yep, that was an eye opener when I reviewed what I just typed. But it is so true. If I hold on to control of these things, they will end up controlling me. These things can also drive a wedge between me and God. This is the whole point - to be closer to Him and give Him all the control.<br />
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The heart of the matter truly is: Can I trust God? Will I trust God?<br />
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My "head" answer and the expected one is, "Of course, I trust God." But the proof isn't in saying it. The proof is daily trusting Him in all areas. Yeah, that's full surrender.<br />
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Oh, precious sisters and brothers in Christ, I'm still working on it, but I don't want to settle for anything less than His real thing.<br />
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<br />Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-53783051517371103272018-02-02T17:23:00.001-08:002018-02-02T17:24:42.507-08:00Daily Surrender and Sacrifice"Our initial surrender to Christ was the launching pad for a lifetime of continual surrender and sacrifice. Now on a daily basis we are called to live that out by responding to various circumstances and choices in obedience and surrender to His will."<br />
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"Realizing that every act of obedience is significant in God's economy and that it is all for Him will add a sense of purpose and joy as we bring our sacrifices and offerings."<br />
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I think I've often felt that on the day I was saved that was my surrender, but that was just the initial surrender in a lifetime commitment to continue this action.<br />
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Daily I have to decide to obey His leading. There are times I yank back that control in my ignorance. This might be a momentary feeling that I know what needs to be done next. Or sometimes this is a reaction of fear about what God might call on me to do or say or be.<br />
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However, when I successfully stay in a posture of surrender to His will, there is a sense of purpose and even joy.<br />
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Specifically I feel God would want me to:<br />
Give my best at my job, working as unto the Lord.<br />
Shine His light in the darkness, being salt and light.<br />
Be sensitive to the Spirit in me and what He might urge me to do, say, or act.<br />
Just love, seeing others as Christ sees them - worth it.<br />
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Here are the roadblocks I have to be careful of:<br />
Nobody cares if I do a good job. Why should I try?<br />
I'm just one person. What good is my little light?<br />
Others won't respect what I might say or do?<br />
"Those" people are hard to love.<br />
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Lord, help me bust through the roadblocks to do what You would have me to do.<br />
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What has God called you to do or say? Have you held back?<br />
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(Quotes from Surrender by Nancy Leigh DeMoss)Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-11474191468692844622018-01-27T15:52:00.001-08:002018-01-27T15:52:37.143-08:00A Bond-SlaveThis week in the Surrender book by Nancy DeMoss, she talks about a bond-slave.<br />
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Bond-slaves were described in the Old Testament.<br />
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"This was the act of a man who voluntarily said to someone he had come to know and love and trust, 'I am yours - I belong to you, and I want to spend the rest of my life fulfilling your wishes.'"<br />
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DeMoss goes on to say that though this bond-slave relationship is spelled out, there are no recorded instances of one who surrendered to this.<br />
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Isn't that interesting? God spelled out in the law how a slave could do this voluntarily when it was time for him to be freed. But there are no known bond-slaves recorded. No one was willing to surrender to this lifetime of serving their master.<br />
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However, I don't think we could truly understand what a bond-slave looked like until we had an example. This is what Jesus did. He was a bond-slave to the Father.<br />
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After Jesus set the example, Paul and Peter both wrote about being bond-slaves to Christ. How often we read Paul's words in which he says things like he is no longer his own.<br />
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Leonard Ravenhill wrote:<br />
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"Lord, engage my heart today<br />
with a passion that will not pass away.<br />
Now torch it with Thy holy fire<br />
that nevermore shall earth's desire<br />
invade or quench the heaven born power.<br />
I would be trapped within Thy holy will,<br />
Thine every holy purpose to fulfill,<br />
that every effort of my life<br />
shall bring rapturous praise to my eternal King.<br />
I pledge from this day to the grave<br />
to be Thine own, unquestioning slave.<br />
Lord, grant that this prayer shall be our own. Amen.<br />
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The more I read through Ravenhill's words, the more meaning I see.<br />
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How I want to be able to wholeheartedly say the same, which exudes full surrender.<br />
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What thoughts do you have on being a bond-slave and on Ravenhill's soliloquy of surrender?<br />
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<br />Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-8666373786040671052018-01-20T13:37:00.000-08:002018-01-20T13:37:01.326-08:00My Surrender to the Stomach BugOh boy! Can you say, I got run over by a truck? This is the reality I've lived during a big portion of this past week.<br />
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Having worked in Pre-K for four and a half years and still working with germy high school kids, I have a pretty tough immune system. I don't normally succumb to the illnesses around me. But this time the stomach bug must have found that one weak spot.<br />
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But you know, laying in the bed, not feeling like getting up because of lack of energy, can teach you a lot about surrender.<br />
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As you know if you follow this blog, that's my word for this year - SURRENDERED.<br />
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For those of you who just rolled your eyes and shook your head, whispering under your breath, "Is she crazy or something?" - I didn't choose this word for myself. God impressed this word upon me for days and I finally had to do my first act of surrender.<br />
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There are things we don't have control over "surrendering" to, like stomach bugs, or what family you're born into, or what you look like and who you are. I mean, I had to basically surrender in defeat to this stomach bug. I had no choice. I felt awful and basically couldn't get out of bed for a couple of days. There was no use in fighting and saying, "You won't get me down." I was down for the count.<br />
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Then there's the issue of the family you're born into and the person you are. You may as well surrender to those things because "it is what it is" - to use one of my hubby's favorite quotes. But don't we sometimes still balk at these things like we could change it?<br />
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Now on the other hand, there are things we can choose to surrender to or not. We can surrender to self pity, bitterness, or even anger. Yes, because all of these are choices.<br />
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We can also surrender to peace and you know where that comes from? God. But to have peace means to unconditionally surrender to Him.<br />
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In most wars and battles one side is called upon to surrender so peace can come.<br />
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Guess what? We're in a battle. God calls on us to surrender to Him and His will and then we can have His peace.<br />
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In Surrender by Nancy Leigh DeMoss she says, "Our initial surrender must be followed by an ongoing process of working out the reality of our surrender in practical, day-to-day ways."<br />
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With my stomach bug, I had to succumb to resting and doing what I needed to get over it. I couldn't defy it and keep going. Nope. I had to surrender to what I needed to do to get better.<br />
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Sometimes in this day-to-day surrender with God, I have to be willing to do the same. He might call me to surrender to a new job or a new attitude. These are things I have to surrender to and then work through what that means.<br />
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Well, I have now conquered the stomach bug, but the daily surrendered thing? Yeah, that's gonna take a little bit more work. Good thing God gave me this whole year to study it. I think I'm gonna need it.<br />
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Do you struggle with surrendering all unconditionally to God? Share.Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-41671250365764639782018-01-13T11:19:00.001-08:002018-01-13T11:19:51.251-08:00Gotta Be ReadyHave you heard that verse quoted? You know the one about being ready in season or out of season, being ready to always give an answer as to where our hope comes from.<br />
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That message reached out and grabbed me this week at school.<br />
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The students were working on a community service project, making blankets for the animal shelter. They were sitting in small groups working and just chatting. I was reading, still available for my hard of hearing student, in the event she needed sign for communicating.<br />
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All of the sudden I hear them discussing religion and God. I sat up especially straight when one young man said, "Well, the way I see it, all the religions will eventually lead to God or heaven or whatever." Some of the others agreed or posed other questions. I was biting my tongue, feeling they would never think to ask my opinion.<br />
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Then the young man looked at me and said, "Mrs. Mowery, what do you think?"<br />
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My heart skipped a beat. My philosophy is that if a student asks me about religion or God or my spiritual life, I will answer. I don't force my opinion in and am not supposed to, but if I'm asked, then I go for it.<br />
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I heaved a deep breath and started with, "Now, I have an answer. But let me warn you that my husband is a pastor and I am a Christian." They urged me on with nods.<br />
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I proceeded right there in the middle of the computer classroom to tell them that not all religions and beliefs lead to heaven or God. I clearly stated that the Bible says that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and that no one can come to the Father except through Him. That means believing that He died for my sins, accepting Him, and living for Him.<br />
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One young lady said, "So, those other religions will mean those people go to hell?"<br />
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I had to chuckle under my breath. She didn't pull any punches.<br />
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I answered, "The only way that God made for us to go to heaven is through His Son which He provided out of His great love for us. Since that is the only way God says we can go to heaven then any other route won't lead there. So, yes, I believe that anyone who doesn't follow God's way will go to hell."<br />
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Heavy stuff for freshmen computer class that day. But I was just glad that they were searching and willing to hear what someone else said.<br />
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One of the young ladies was wearing a necklace with a cross on it. She stated some things about Jesus. I didn't get to ask her, but I think she actually mentioned going to church.<br />
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Oh my! If she is still that confused about God and eternity, I gotta get busy!<br />
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I want to give a warning that I have given to my couples Sunday school class: Don't assume because you bring your kids to church that they "get it." There's more to it. We as parents have to be more intentional about making sure our kids understand what they're hearing at church. We have to support it at home and live it out in front of them, so they'll know for sure what Jesus has done for them.<br />
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Though I'm a bit nervous, I hope for more opportunities to speak into these young lives. In just three more years, these young people will be venturing into the world to become the next leaders and parents. I want them to know the Truth.<br />
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Have you had an instance where God has nudged you into talking about your faith? When and where?Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-77960310485609789072018-01-08T13:54:00.000-08:002018-01-08T13:54:40.784-08:00Seasons and SurrenderFriends, I'm just returning from a marriage retreat. This weekend is something I look forward to each year - the getting away and the getting away with my hubby.<br />
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The speakers talked about seasons of life. My hubby often speaks of seasons, saying that this is just the season we are in. But our retreat speakers got a bit more specific.<br />
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We were to think of the spring as new beginnings like when you are newlyweds or have a baby. The summer time is a busy time of tending the garden and work. Then the fall is a time to enjoy the fruits from the labor of summer.<br />
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I realized that after turning fifty this year that I was thinking I should be going into the fall season. I was ready to enjoy some of the fruits of our labor and maybe have things slow a bit. But then God plopped a new job into my lap. And He turned right around and gave me SURRENDERED as my word of the year.<br />
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Now I get it. God wants to make sure I keep myself in a surrendered posture so He can lead and show me the work for this summer season. I won't lie. I am experiencing some frustration, wanting to be in the fall season. But God has never let me down in this adventure with Him. I know I can trust Him.<br />
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There's a verse in 2 Kings where the king of Judah is told to surrender to the king of Babylon. What a downer, right? I mean, this is God's instruction to the king of Judah. But when I read this verse and the passage surrounding it, I realized that sometimes surrendering isn't at all what I want to do. I'm sure the king of Judah would have preferred God worked things out another way. But God is God and He has His way. If I'm to follow what He has in store for me, I may have to surrender to some things I would rather not surrender to.<br />
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All this to say, I have to surrender to the fact that God has me in the summer season. He's having me cultivate and tend and work longer. I've reminded Him that I'm not as young as I used to be, but He provides the strength.<br />
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So on this journey to discover why God would have me use the word SURRENDER as my guide word for the year, I've realized a part of it. Now it's time to stop whining and get to work. Oops! A little groan eeked out. Sorry. But I'm still working on this total surrender.<br />
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Have you ever had to surrender to God's ways when you would have preferred your own? Share with us a little about that. Please encourage us in this surrender path. Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-33473633078273639692018-01-01T09:53:00.000-08:002018-01-01T09:53:05.616-08:00Be Careful What You Do New Year's DayMy Mamaw Lindsey used to say this. She would explain that the things you do on New Year's Day would be the things you would be doing the most throughout the new year.<br />
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She would warn against doing laundry unless that's what you wanted to do all year long. Thinking back - Did I do laundry on New Year's Day last year? I must have. I seemed to always have a mountain of it. She warned about doing dishes too. I won't go there.<br />
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As I sat down at my desk this morning, I jumped into my study for my one word for this year. Then I thought about how studying God's Word is a good thing to do today in hopes that I might do a lot of that this year.<br />
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As I've already shared, my one word for this year is SURRENDERED. First, I looked up all the forms of surrender in my big concordance. I wrote each verse address at the top of one of my devotional journal pages.<br />
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Even though some of the verses refer to actual surrendering like during war or sieges in the Bible, I've been able to glean something from each verse to apply to my life. Of course, I'm a firm believer in the Bible being the living Word of God. And the Spirit can illuminate principles to me no matter where the verse in found.<br />
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I also went on a search for a devotional book or study of some kind on surrender. I found one that I think will fit my needs well. It is called Surrender; The Heart God Controls by Nancy Leigh DeMoss. I read through the preface and introduction yesterday. Seems like it will be a great read.<br />
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I'm hopeful that my mamaw's idea will ring true, and I'll be into His Word a lot this year.<br />
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The other thing I did was to make breakfast for my family. I broke open the baking mix and tried my hand at cinnamon biscuits with powdered sugar icing. Must have been okay because the pan is empty. I will be making what my daughter feels is the traditional meal for New Year's Day - cube steak, mashed potatoes, green peas, rolls, and country gravy.<br />
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Though Mamaw might warn me about the cooking, I think the idea of providing for my family is just fine for something to spend time doing this year. Now, I will definitely take help cleaning the dishes!<br />
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Precious Brothers and Sisters in Christ, I pray you begin your New Year with those things that are important to you and those things that might become the good habits.<br />
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What are you filling your New Year with?<br />
Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-78676268444004487572017-12-28T11:49:00.000-08:002017-12-28T11:49:01.716-08:00My One WordSome people have asked me about picking a word for the year. Below is a link to a YouTube video in which one of the authors of the My One Word book explains a bit about this idea and process. Now this video is a bit old - I believe he mentions 2012. But it still holds the basics to this concept of picking one word to guide your life instead of a host of resolutions for the new year.<br />
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There is a book available as well as a study for this My One Word concept. I received the book a couple of years ago and still at this time of year I go back to it.<br />
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Here's the link to give you an idea: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aGDQQKl0ASU">My One Word intro with Ashcroft</a><br />
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Just a couple of mornings ago I woke up with my word on my mind. I will admit, I was resistant and asked God if He was quite sure about this one. In the past I've had words like intentional and diligent.<br />
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For 2018 God has nudged me to choose SURRENDERED as my one word.<br />
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I'll be sharing about my one word here off and on.<br />
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I would love to know if you choose a word to guide your year. Please share in the comments.Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-11161072930543901302017-12-13T13:42:00.001-08:002017-12-13T13:42:55.644-08:00Missing in ActionAnyone ever proclaimed you to be MIA? Friends, this is how I've felt for the last several months. Not saying I've liked it, but I suppose it has been necessary.<br />
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Back in the summer God surprised me by leading me in a direction I never thought I would go again. I've entered the world of educational interpreting for a deaf student. It's really funny to look back and see this full circle happening.<br />
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When I completed my BA, I interpreted in schools for all ages. However, a few years into this vocation saw me switching between icing and heating my arms each night and then sleeping in braces. I went back to school and upon receiving my MEd, I started teaching. I really felt that God wanted my interpreting reserved for ministry.<br />
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I've interpreted for our church services for ten years. During that time I also reentered education as an assistant part time but pursued my writing and publishing dream mostly.<br />
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I've often mentioned God nudges. Well, this interpreting position seemed like a God shove. My only concern was whether my arms could physically handle it since I'm not a spring chicken any more.<br />
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Let me say that so far, my arms are doing great. This is a definite God thing since I interpret all day long during the week in a high school setting and then also still interpret on Sundays.<br />
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Friends, please join me in prayer for our high school students. There is much darkness in the halls along with many disillusioned young people. My prayer each morning is that I will shine Jesus. So many need Him and don't even know it. Those who do have Him need encouragement to stick with their faith.<br />
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I'm not sure of all the reasons I am where I am, but God's leading demanded I step up.<br />
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How I've wanted to have a moment to share with my dear brothers and sisters in Christ here about my absence. I'm hoping to get back to regular posting.<br />
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Anyone else experience a sudden shove from God? Please share in the comments. I love it when we share our lives.<br />
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As always, I pray God blesses you in your season and situation no matter what it is.Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-66367878954047627892017-09-30T12:28:00.001-07:002017-09-30T12:28:29.830-07:00Connecting It AllNow I have shared my nonnegotiable truths and offered the strategies I use to teach them.<br />
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Go back and look at your nonnegotiable truths. If you missed that post or want to review it, search in the archives for Nonnegotiable Truths.<br />
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Think of the strategies you could use to teach these truths to those you have influence over. List them and connect them with your truths to make sure you have covered them all.<br />
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This is a very important step to being intentional about passing on a Godly legacy.<br />
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Share a truth or strategy in the comments. You never know how you might help someone else in their strategy building.<br />
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<br />Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-67859649980046817652017-09-21T14:12:00.001-07:002017-09-21T14:12:09.987-07:00Celebrate "God Things"We praise our children and others for soccer goals and good grades. This builds their confidence. It can allow them to establish a healthy pride for doing a good job.<br />
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What have you most recently praised someone for?<br />
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However, do we also praise people for the "God things"? This might include learning the books of the Bible, memorizing scripture, or even establishing a regular quiet time.<br />
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My daughter was homeschooled, thus Bible was included as one of her classes. She was praised for memorizing scripture passages. It was amazing to watch her knowledge of Bible characters and stories increase. Most importantly, her understanding of what can be learned from scripture and applied to life was increased. She would often share with me what God wanted her to apply from her Bible study. Admittedly, I don't think I could praise her enough for these precious lessons.<br />
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We should praise our children and those we have influence over equally or maybe more for accomplishing milestones in their Christian walk. We should strive to build their confidence through encouraging them in the things of God. We celebrate birthdays, so why not celebrate "born again" day?<br />
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What things of God have you praised someone for?<br />
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When we praise and celebrate an occurrence or accomplishment, we show the priority and worth we attach to it. If we want our children and others to grasp that God and the things of God are important, then we must emphasize them.<br />
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Celebrating the things of God in our lives supports and continues the Christian legacy we strive to leave behind.<br />
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What kind of God celebrations could you include into your Christian legacy transmission?Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-20457656308209701692017-09-07T17:39:00.000-07:002017-09-07T17:39:51.376-07:00Model It Part IIAdmittedly, many of the things we learn are gained through example. And we are told in the Bible to follow our role model Jesus.<br />
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As Christians we are to imitate Christ and then pray that He would make us a worthy example to be copied.<br />
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If others were copying you in your Christian walk, would they be imitating Christ?<br />
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This is yet another tactic through which we convey our Christian legacy.<br />
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What would you want someone who considers you to be his or her role model to say about you?<br />
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When I consider those who are watching me, I have to examine myself constantly to make sure I'm living up to being copied. I fail miserably but that's not a reason to stop trying to be the best imitator of Christ I can be.<br />
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Thing is, we never know who is watching us. This is why I have begun to pray each morning to shine Jesus, whether at work, church, home or in my community. I'm a role model for Christ if I claim to be a Christian. Being a good role model is as much of an intentional act as passing on a Godly legacy.Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-72019693198046810572017-08-14T14:47:00.000-07:002017-08-14T14:47:53.113-07:00Model It"Do as I say, not as I do." We all know that idea doesn't truly work, especially as parents.<br />
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I can tell my daughter that she needs to spend time in prayer and Bible study, but I I don't model it, she won't see the importance. When she sees me studying my Bible and praying, she has proof that doing these things have value. If I don't engage in these activities I require of her, I prompt doubt. She will wonder why she needs to study her Bible and pray.<br />
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There are many areas in life to model. Out reactions and attitudes in situations and with people are to be modeled. The Bible instructs us to treat others as better than ourselves. We can preach this, but the best way to convey this is to be kind to that unlovable person.<br />
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My husband has been the best role model for reading the Bible for personal study. He is a pastor and can struggle with not always studying the Word for his sermons. I usually see him pull out his Bible or his iPad in the evening at some point and read the Bible reading for his plan he has set for himself. This has been a great example for me and our daughter. We see that he values reading the Bible personally, not just for preparation for teaching or preaching.<br />
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Has someone in your life been a good role model for you?<br />
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Who was or is that person and what did or do they model for you?<br />
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<br />Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-24877887119933312422017-08-12T09:59:00.002-07:002017-08-12T09:59:12.229-07:00More on Staying Firm and ConsistentThe consistency in passing along a Christian heritage can truly be difficult to maintain.<br />
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Often as my life becomes busy with a full time job and then coming home to another full time job of caring for my family, I let things slip. I'll neglect reading my Bible. I'll even barely go to the Lord in prayer. If I'm not being consistent in my Christian walk, it is difficult to convey the importance and need to others. But I have learned that at these times, I need to pray and read the Word more than ever.<br />
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Admittedly, I'll return to those teachable moments by admitting that I got off track and that it wasn't right. I need to repent and return to staying near to God through reading His Word and communicating through prayer.<br />
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God has called me to follow His precepts, not the world's. To ensure a Godly legacy I have to stay firm and consistent in teaching and emphasizing what God would endorse. If I know something wouldn't be acceptable to God, I should steer myself and those I have influence over away from it. I must teach others to do the same.<br />
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Staying firm and consistent in the ways of God is the right example for others to see. And God clearly instructs us not to conform to the ways of this world. We are to be different.<br />
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Will we take some ridicule for it? Probably.<br />
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Will we be labeled too strict? Sure.<br />
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Will we be found faithful in transmitting this all-important Christian heritage? Yes, servant, you will!<br />
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What struggles have you experienced in staying firm and consistent in passing along a Godly legacy?<br />
<br />Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-89745322466874285732017-07-31T06:05:00.000-07:002017-07-31T06:05:36.879-07:00Stay Firm and ConsistentDo you struggle with consistency?<br />
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I've always heard that parents must remain firm and consistent in disciplining their children. When we aren't firm and consistent, our children can become confused about what is acceptable behavior or what is truly right or wrong.<br />
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This idea of being firm and consistent transfers into passing along a Godly legacy. In this I must remain consistent.<br />
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When my daughter was a teenager, her father and I were fairly restrictive on what she watched on television and the movies she saw. One day she approached me rather upset because some of her peers had teased her because she hadn't watched a particular TV show. She went on to explain that her friend told her this was a good show and she should try it some time. Because these friends were from the youth group at church, I decided that we would watch an episode together. We lasted about two minutes before I abruptly turned it off. The language and morals portrayed were not appropriate for a Christian of any age.<br />
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I have been labeled overly-protective, old-fashioned, and strict by people in my own family, but I cannot allow the world to creep in and desensitize us to God's will. When we watch what the world watches or listen to what the world listens to, we are conforming to the world. The more we engage in what the world offers, the more the lines of Godly discernment blur.<br />
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Do you find that others label you strict because you desire to follow God's commands consistently?Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-29421874960461910122017-07-28T06:31:00.000-07:002017-07-28T06:31:49.323-07:00More on Teachable MomentsWhat kinds of lessons concerning the things of God could become teachable moments?<br />
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Since I homeschooled my daughter, I had the opportunity to see her growth in many areas. None was more pleasing than in her spiritual maturity.<br />
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Prayer time became a teachable moment. Her father and I tried to make sure we modeled prayer for her. And we instructed her. When she would pray, we would encourage her to make it a conversation, not just rote recitations.<br />
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Although difficult sometimes to do, one teachable moment to take advantage of is when I would make a mistake or lose my temper. I modeled asking for forgiveness and even discussed with my daughter how I might avoid that situation in the future.<br />
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There are teachable moments that occur when we are with other persons as well. When facing trying times, we teach through our attitudes, words, and actions.<br />
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When my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, she taught others through her faith. She emphasized prayer to bring her through, which instructed others in the importance of prayer. She also displayed an attitude of trust in God, knowing He was in control. Her motto was that of Paul: "To live is Christ, to die is gain." She won either way.<br />
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We can learn many lessons through teachable moments, those moments when the instruction is the most meaningful and timely.<br />
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To pass on a Godly heritage, we should take advantage of our teachable moments and focus on the meaningful instructions of God.<br />
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What have you taught through a teachable moment?Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-82458008142062214952017-07-27T06:24:00.000-07:002017-07-27T06:24:06.711-07:00Teachable MomentsOften as parents and teachers we are encouraged to take advantage of teachable moments. Of course we have all taught different concepts in the classroom or when they come to mind. But instruction can be more meaningful in context.<br />
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Let me give you an example. When my daughter began learning about money and the concept of making change, we would do the workbook pages or use play money. But the more meaningful way was to learn in context. She would accompany me to the grocery store, and I would ask her to calculate the change I would receive. Or I might ask her to tell me which brand of a food was a better buy and by how much. We would also do this when we went to a restaurant. She learned to make change and learn about money in a real situation.<br />
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But I didn't restrict these teachable moments to academics and life skills only. As a Christian parent I saw the need to use teachable moments to instruct about faith and the things of God. There was also an aspect of studying my daughter's bent and discovering her gifts and abilities, so I could encourage those.<br />
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Have you used teachable moments? Is there a particular one that comes to mind you might share?<br />
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Do you find teachable moments an effective way to instruct?<br />
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Tomorrow we will continue to consider this topic about teachable moments more pointedly in regards to our Christian legacy.Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-16067463927384975252017-07-26T06:02:00.000-07:002017-07-26T06:02:13.688-07:00Sunday is for Worship at Church Pt 2In our house, we have decided that nothing comes before church attendance. My daughter was to be in a ballet recital. The dress rehearsal was scheduled for Wednesday evening at exactly the same time as our church's midweek service. I kindly informed the ballet mistress that my daughter wouldn't be in attendance. To compromise would mean that I believe if something else comes up, it's okay to do that instead of attending church.<br />
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I feel that by not allowing other activities to interfere with our church attendance, I am teaching my daughter the proper place for honoring God in our priorities.<br />
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When my daughter attends worship and Sunday school, her knowledge of the things of God increases and are reinforced. I thank God for those Sunday school teachers and youth leaders who help instill God's Word into children and youth each week.<br />
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Even if our schedule is busy, time for corporate worship must take priority. If we allow sports practice or other activities to take precedence over our church attendance, our children won't believe we truly honor God and put Him first.<br />
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People other than our children will also notice our worship attendance or lack thereof. We influence others in our family, neighbors, co-workers, and friends as well. They are watching to see what priority we place upon worshiping the God we serve.<br />
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To ensure a Christian legacy, we must "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy."<br />
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How do you combat an interference with church attendance or activity?<br />
<br />Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-56748213702715219792017-07-25T06:00:00.000-07:002017-07-25T06:00:59.360-07:00Sunday is for Worship at ChurchThe first strategy I have personally employed to follow God's instructions and pass along a Christian heritage is to obey the fourth commandment.<br />
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God commanded us to "remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy." God "blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy." Exodus 20:8-11<br />
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God set this day apart for rest and focus upon Him. In another verse in the Bible we are told not to "forsake the gathering of the saints." Hebrews 10:25<br />
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Today the way we honor this commandment is by setting aside specific times to attend church. These are times we worship corporately as well as times we receive instruction and encouragement for living our Christian lives.<br />
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Our time is in such demand. We are so busy with our lives that we must schedule the activities we want to accomplish. In doing so, our priorities become evident; that which we value most gets our time.<br />
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I know some people argue that they can worship any place. And I know that is true. I can certainly worship God while out in His creation. But God specifically made the Sabbath holy. That means it is set apart and different than other days. For me this implies that I have to make sure I am keeping it holy - set aside and different than my other days.<br />
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Let's continue our discussion of the Sabbath tomorrow.<br />
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In the meantime, do you attend church regularly? How do you keep the Sabbath holy?Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-3215021066693663592017-07-24T06:30:00.000-07:002017-07-24T06:30:10.855-07:00How to Convey Non-Negotiable TruthsNow I study my list and brainstorm ways to convey these truths.<br />
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Here's my list of non-negotiable truths:<br />
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I want others to know there is one God, Who sent His Son, Jesus, to die for every person who believes and accepts.<br />
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I want others to come to salvation through Christ.<br />
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I want others to accept and stand on the Bible as truth and God's words and instruction.<br />
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I want others to realize God has a plan for them and has gifted them.<br />
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I want others to understand that they are filled with the Spirit, Who guides and teaches them through the Word.<br />
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How can I convey these truths to those around me?<br />
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Church attendance<br />
Take advantage of teachable moments<br />
Stay firm and consistent<br />
Be an example - Model it<br />
Celebrate God "things"<br />
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Start to brainstorm your list.<br />
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Tomorrow I will take each practical action and discuss it for a couple of days, matching the actions up with my truths.<br />
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<br />Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-37452841643272587402017-07-21T06:04:00.000-07:002017-07-21T06:04:36.413-07:00Non-Negotiable TruthsYesterday, I shared with you my non-negotiable truths.<br />
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Now it is your turn.<br />
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Think about what it is in your spiritual legacy you want to pass along. What are those big ideas, those big truths, that you must ensure that the next generation understands?<br />
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Start by just listing whatever comes to mind.<br />
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Now, read over your list. Do you have some repeated truths?<br />
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Hone your list until you feel it shows the most important truths you are compelled to pass along.<br />
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Hold onto your list. On Monday, we'll start to work on finding the practical ways to convey these truths.<br />
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Did your non-negotiable truths come easy? Did you struggle to think about what truths you want to pass along? Please share in the comments.Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-38431791332668093012017-07-20T07:51:00.000-07:002017-07-20T07:51:16.909-07:00How Do I Make It Practical?This is the question I asked myself. I understand the need to pass along a Godly legacy, but I need practical ways to accomplish it.<br />
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I asked myself: Where do I start? I realized that I needed to know what it was that I wanted to pass along. What are my non-negotiable truths?<br />
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Here's what I came up with:<br />
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I want others to know there is one God, Who sent His Son, Jesus, to die for every person who believes and accepts.<br />
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I want others to come to salvation through Christ.<br />
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I want others to accept and stand on the Bible as truth and God's words and instruction.<br />
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I want others to realize God has a plan for them and has gifted them.<br />
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I want others to understand that they are filled with the Spirit, Who guides and teaches them through the Word.<br />
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By knowing these non-negotiable truths, I can now come up with practical ways to pass this along.<br />
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Have you ever considered the truths you want to pass along to your children and those you have influence over? Consider this and return tomorrow, ready to list your non-negotiable truths.Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5133065266353911074.post-55093514708104343182017-07-20T07:40:00.001-07:002017-07-20T07:40:41.897-07:00Y in Legacy is YokeAgain I find myself posting for yesterday and today. But we laid a dear saint to rest yesterday and that took precedence.<br />
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The Y in Legacy stands for yoke with Christ. There is no way to go alone, but God is willing to yoke with us to help us leave His legacy.<br />
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"May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word." 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17<br />
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Oftentimes I can let my guard down and feel comfortable, not remaining active in leaving this Christian heritage. Let's face it. When those around me make professions of faith, I can become lax. But this command stands all the days I'm still alive on this earth.<br />
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And honestly, friends, sometimes I just become weary. My pastor/hubby says that the pull downward is easier to allow than the pull upward. It's easy to think we are okay. We have enough of Jesus and we've done enough. But we should never let our enemy trick us into believing this lie.<br />
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The only way to remain faithful in leaving this legacy is to yoke with God. Just as the verse says above, He is the One to encourage and strengthen us for the task. I can't be satisfied because there are always those who need to know about Jesus and then learn to pass along their faith, so we never find ourselves in a place like the generation after Joshua who didn't know God or His ways.<br />
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I stay yoked by reading God's Word, praying, and attending Bible study at my church.<br />
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Remember, a yoke was used to harness two or more animals together. In this way, the animals could pull together, making them stronger than if they were alone. Now think of yourself yoked to God. Wow, the power and strength to be found in that!<br />
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How do you stay yoked to God?Paula Moweryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508561176005570528noreply@blogger.com0