RelyingonGodalone

Relaxation

2012-02-15T15:40:00.000-08:00

Slowly, as the music seeps into my mind
I relax letting the stress of the day unwind.
Finding peaceful solitude in the beautiful sound
Of music in my ears
Which calms all my fears.
Peacefulness floods my soul
Weariness leaves, and in its place is rest
Listening to the melodious sound of hymns
Soothes the pain of unshed tears.

Speak Out

2012-02-05T13:51:00.000-08:00

There's a feeling deep inside
that I'm trying to hide,
but I feel like if i do i won't be able
to speak the truth.
I'll just be living a lie
and that would not be right.
So i choose to fight rather than take flight.
Standing up for what i know is right

No longer living in fright
Because God is by my side.
No longer fearing the future
Because He knows all that is to come.
Come what may is what I say
No matter what the cost,
I'll follow Him to the end.

"The light shines in the darkness and the darkness does not comprehend it.
Jesus said, " I am the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle or put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick because it gives light to all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men so that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father who art in Heaven."

snow :)

2012-01-11T20:33:00.000-08:00

Beautiful, dainty pictures of God's unique design
Intricate in detail, different in shape and size.
Sparkling in the sky and falling to the ground
It blankets the world in white
Reminding us of Jesus' life
And His ultimate gift for our plight.

Jesus paid it all. All to Him I owe. Sin had left a crimson stain, but He washed it white as snow

Purpose

2011-11-26T17:11:00.000-08:00

Searching for meaning in this life
Of what is important and what i can avoid
So many questions swirl through my head
As I focus on the road ahead
Well, worn from the paths of others gone before.
Pressing onward towards the goal
Of glorifying God and living with true purpose.
No longer searching for the right method or technicality
But rather resting in the knowledge of one who is greater than me.
Who knows every thought I will ever think
Who is the puzzle that completes
My destination.

"For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "Plans to prosper you, not to harm you; plans to give you a future and a hope." (Jeremiah 29:11)

"Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not."(Jeremiah 33:3)

Thankfulness

2011-11-24T21:55:00.000-08:00

Gathered around we say grace
Thankful to live in a place
Of freedom and prosperity.
Thankful for the food galore
And what is in store
This holiday season.
Asking for guidance in the days ahead
Gratefully thankful for our daily bread.

Most of us do not realize how blessed we truly are
Until we go over seas or on land afar
And see how people have less than what we prepare
For our thanksgiving feasts.
So when next time you sit down to eat,
Remember to pray for those whose meals are not so neat.

Stress

2011-10-23T10:30:00.000-07:00

It starts as a pounding rhythm in my head
A song played over and over again.
Faster and faster the notes pulse louder
Until the thoughts explode in a cacophony of noise.
Coming out of nowhere, it hits me from every side.
Sweeping away all hope of rest
No longer able to think clearly
I scream out pleading for the noise to stop
Only to be pulled back under gasping for air.

Pain courses through my chest and I reach out as if to hold onto
Something, anything to make the pain go away.
Flashes of light parade in front of my eyes
And the vision of hope I once knew is gone
As if to say goodbye to peace and happiness.

Side-note

Stress is a killer.

It comes without warning,causing pain and turmoil to those around us.

It is a voracious disease that infects the human race leading to disease, and even death.

Sleepless nights, angry days, combining into a mesh of madness.

Is it really worth it to live this way or is there hope amidst the madness?
The answer is yes, there is hope, hope that doesn't disappoint.
That lifts us up when we are down and it is found in Jesus Christ.
Letting go of our burdens and carrying them to the One who can deliver us from the daily stresses of life.
He can awaken in us a desire to live freely and peacefully with all men.
He can break us free from the chains of darkness and rescue us from the slavery of fear.
He can give us life abundantly and give us a way of escape when tempted to be afraid or get angered.
A slave to sin or a slave to righteousness; which will you choose?
Whom will you serve? Fear or God?
"If God is for us, who can be against us?"
"Cast all your cares about Him, for He cares for you."
Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No comes to the Father except by Me." ( John 14:6)

Lover's Lane

2011-08-18T19:12:00.000-07:00

Prologue

She was standing by the bridge looking out over the water, thinking of jumping in and letting it cover her until she was no more. How long was she to endure this kind of pain? How long was she to continually remember all the memories with him? He was her everything, the one who had come into her life when she needed him the most and now because of this cruel war, gone. Like a distant pebble on the shore, she felt alone. Her hair cascaded down her back and the wind picked up as if resisting her idea to begin with. She could just jump into the water, no one would care if she left. At least, that is what she perceived but maybe there was more to life than this. Something to live for. Maybe there was some Higher being watching out for her, not letting her fall. Sighing, she brushed these thoughts aside until suddenly a memory hit her and she felt transported back in time. Back when everything began.

"Jules, you know that I love you, right?" Stanley said. "Of course, I just hate to think that we won't see each other again for some time. " Jewel said with eyes downcast and face drawn into a frown. "Listen to me, " Stanley said lifting her chin and looking into her tear-stained eyes. "Everything is going to be all right. I will be back before you know it. I can write to you everyday and keep you updated on how things are, and you do the same for me, okay?" Stanley said pulling her into a hug. Jewel nodded resolutely trying to keep the tears from pooling over. Stanley was the handsome boy that stole her heart in kindergarten.
She still remembered how they met. It was her first day of kindergarten and she was wearing her favorite pink sweater w/ the flowered designed skirt and Mary-Jane shoes that her mom bought her. She was excited but nervous too. Her mom said, " Now, Jewel, remember this is a new adventure for you and you are going to do great. I am so proud of you. " Her mom placed a kiss on her cheek. The school was a highly prestigious Catholic school and had gotten high ratings. Her mom also had several friends from her past college days who had sent their daughters there, so her mom said it should be a good fit. As they approached the school, Jewel started to cry.

Depression clouded Jewel's mind as she jumped. The water closed over her and she breathed deeply but the art of drowning was a lot harder than it looked. Water went up her nose and she coughed harshly, gasping for air. "I have to get to the shore,"she thought out loud. Swimming hurriedly, she swam against the current only to be pulled under by another current. Clawing for air, she broke through the surface and managed to reach the shoreline where she crawled out shaking, already feeling the effects of the biting cold water. She rubbed her hands together trying to warm herself up. Then she felt apprehension all of a sudden as if someone was watching her. Slowly, she turned around and saw what was staring at her. She screamed and collapsed into a dead faint.

What did she see? Was it real or just imagined? Read the book to find out !

Sleep

2011-07-22T19:50:00.000-07:00

Freedom from disturbance in both mind and body,

Restlessness at rest, slowly closing one's eyes and drifting to sleep.

Not overwhelmed by silence, but rather enjoying it.

That is what I want, peace. Oh, how i long for it

And beg for it, music soothing my soul, come back to me.

Restlessness be still, and fade away to a distant fantasy.

Breathing deeply, the nightmare begins again where it left off

Once again, abandoned by the one I love.

Despair grips my heart and I am worn out by the endless noise in my mind.

Will freedom ever be mine?

I am worn out by endless tears, sobbing with no end

Hell on earth; that is where I am.

No longer hearing His voice or seeing His hand, enslaved by the desires within

Longing to be perfectly normal again, and no longer have these doubts plaguing my mind

But alas it is not so, and so i slowly drift away into the void of the unknown

Not knowing or caring who knows.

bye world bye pain by love

And then I wake up.

Wearing Red

2011-07-17T21:37:00.000-07:00

Long blonde hair cascades down her back
As she walks down the well-worn path, one hand clutching the knife
That will end the threat of all human life
She carries the pain in her heart
Not daring to show that she feels torn apart.
Red cape cascading in the wind
Running away with him.
Her true love, her heart's desire
But only in her dreams.
Reality hits once again sending her reeling
She must marry Henry for only then will she be provided for
At least that is what her mother told her.
Secrets whispered in the dark,
her family torn apart by lies.
The wolf wants her and she must obey his voice
In order to spare the town from death.
So many thoughts hounding her
Who can she trust, who should she fear?
Terrified that her lover is the wolf,
She stabs him only to discover her deepest terror.
Her father is her deepest fear, for he is the werewolf in disguise
And only then does she realize the truth amidst the lies.
Walking hand in hand with the man she loves
She leaves the town never to return for she is one with him and he with her.

Broken

2011-06-12T13:26:00.000-07:00

Lost and searching for answers
In the vast scheme of things
Regrets well up inside spilling forth
As tears spill down her face
Remembering what once was
But now will never be.
Her heart is broken beyond belief
Crying for healing, she looks to me.
Only human though, reacting in defense
I tell her I cannot bear her burden; Only God can.
So I leave her alone to deal with her own personal demons
Angry that I seem so confident that people can lean on me
Rather than seeing it as God's gift to me.
Maybe I am meant to carry their burden to Jesus through prayer.
Just a thought....

crying

2011-05-28T13:05:00.000-07:00

Broken, hidden abuse that she tries to keep quiet
Scars not seen but her emotions spill over
As she shares with me her fears
Of dreams not true and realities harsh.
Holding her, I hug her as she cries.
What once was is not the same
Thing have changed and her dreams are shattered
As she sees him for who he really is,
Is this the man she fell in love with or tried to create?
Why does life have to hurt so much at times? one thing after another pummels her mind as she searches for answers. Please heal her Yahweh, Healer of people's broken hearts.

Hailstones

2011-05-22T21:15:00.000-07:00

So I had a crazy experience tonight driving to taco bueno. I knew I was crazy going right before the storm was supposed to hit, but i was pretty hungry. So I'm pulling out of the drive through and all of a sudden i hear a loud ping as if a bullet hit the top of my car and then i realize it's hail, golf-ball sized hail falling on the top and pinging off the streets and lightning blinding me and rain pouring. It was so terrifying hearing it and seeing it that I shook violently and i nosedived through the front door to get inside as quickly as possilbe. i hateeee storms!!!!! i hate them

Running

2011-03-16T12:31:00.000-07:00

She's running with tears streaming down her face
Away from this place of fear and rejection
Looking for something to fill the void
Crying for meaning in this life
Her path is far away and yet near
Trying not to face the fear
She'd rather hide than be away in the inside
Her tears fall faster
And she glances away
Deeply scarred within
She relishes of the past good memories that fall like leaves in the rain
Grasping for answers she runs as the wind tries to push her back
She must face this fear head-on and learn to trust again
But how when her heart is shattered and her mind is captured
Lifting her hands up to the sky
She begins to sing
to her Heavenly Father, to the King.

The Potter's Plan

2011-03-07T13:06:00.001-08:00

Molding me slowly He turns me around
To face the fears that I have been running from, oh so long
Chiseling away at the rough patches in my skin
Hurting deeply I cry within
He carries my tears in a bottle around his neck
And comforts me as my tears run down from my face.
Aghast at the lack of my sufficiency to run this race
But it is all right because He fights for me
And gives me the assurance and perseverance to see
The truth admist the pain in life and pain in death
Of relationships and hopeful longings.
Placing them in His worn beat hands
He tells me softly of the Promised Land.
As my weary soul takes rest I thank God that I am blest
To have Him as my dear, sweet friend
And never lose hope or the joy within.
Thanking Him I rise again
over the fears and doubts galore
and look forward to the storehouse of grace
That He is willing to unleash any time, any place.
Thank you Jesus for dying for me
And setting me free
From the pain of human fragility
Thank you so much
For being there despite my deepest fears
And showing me what really matters.

Dedicated to my Best Friend and Heavenly Father, Jesus

Rose

Loss

2011-03-07T12:56:00.000-08:00

Tears streaming down her face
Whispers of prayer coming from her lips
Crying out for comfort amidst this pain
Her best friend left this earth
One Friday night
Longing for peace from this pain
Looking up to the sky
He saw His savior
and with a glance goodbye
Escaped to the savior's arms
Bruised heart needing healing
Mind reeling from the pain
Amidst the storms of life.
Grasping onto her father's hand
She is lifted up until she stands
With fierce longing in her heart
To live this legacy from the start
No longer caring what others think
Instead knowing the Father's love for her
and Leaning on Him, her strength and her song.
Letting go of her best friend
She looks forward to seeing him again
In a beautiful palace up in the sky
With Jesus standing nearby.

Dedicated to a dear friend of mine who lost a loved one...
May your heart always be sweetly drawn towards people and continue to be at peace :)

Love you

Anger

2011-03-04T16:53:00.000-08:00

It comes like an incessant pounding in your head
Turmoil twisting inside
Screaming for answers; screaming for why
Beating your head against the wall,
Trying to make sense of it all
Suddenly it explodes like a firecracker
Taking its revenge
It screams out, cussing in bitter anguish
It implodes on you
leaving you weak and defenseless
If only control could happen just like that
Without even thinking
But buttons are pushed and before you know it; all is combusted in an engine of your mind
Hitting the wall, as your fists grow bloodier
U still don't know why
Helplessly trying to be free
And make sense of yourself and your life.

To Save a Life

2011-02-28T21:44:00.000-08:00

Lost with nowhere to go, searching for answers
And not sure where to turn
He stumbles into the school with a gun in his hand.
Pointing it up he shoots a bullet or two
Screaming for help in a world gone mad.
Looking for answers he turns to his friend
The highschool jock the best friend
The guy says "you don't want to do this"
But he turns the gun on himself and shoots
Another suicide, another life lost
Only because people didn't see the lost
They didn't know that it would cost.
Choices made, consequences for sure.
Hoping for answers and left unsure.
Girl is pregnant wanting to abort
highschool jock is wanting her to wait.
both need God like never before
Repenting and believing, they step by faith and learn to trust the God who hears
If you are struggling or ever suicidal, know that God sees your deepest hurts and needs and cares no matter what.

Flowers

2011-02-23T23:55:00.000-08:00

In the garden that I love
I wait and think
Of the God above
Who looks down from on high
And sees this little bird try to fly
Who helps me see past the storms of life
And brings me through the pain of strife
Who helps me blossom Just like a rose
In time for the springtime of new beginning
And fresh understandings
To garden here with my knees in the dirt
With my toes curled up underneath
With a smudge on my cheek.
Ah, this is bliss.
This is like a kiss of heaven
Shining down on me
The sun reflecting the glory above
And the earth radiating with His love.
As one by one the flowers fade and the heat of day turns into shade
And the dark of night begins its grasp
I think of the One who will come at last
And take us home to paradise
Where there will be forever spring
And no more tears and storms of man
But rather peace in a heavenly Land
To think that there is hope in Love
To think that God came from above
To save us oh worthless sinners
And redeemed us for a life worth living.
Thank you my heavenly Father for Your love that never lets me go. May I always remember Your beautiful creation. I am so thankful for your redemption. May I always reflect the goodness of you in my life...And may I always thank you ad-mist the strife. Thank you Jesus!

Rose

mindless maze

2011-02-23T23:13:00.000-08:00

Words, words running in my head
Everything is left unsaid
Scrambled sentences all around
Bringing me further down
Down into the abyss of my mind
Screaming for breath
And hopeless for reason
Trying to find the good in this season
Of life as I know it
Struggling to grasp
The truth at last

Expectation

2011-02-22T21:21:00.000-08:00

A feeling of joy that wells up inside
Refusing to hide
Screaming for attention,
Wanting to get out
And sharing what life is truly about
Not searching for answers
Not listening to lies
But really listening to the Truth and the Life
Listening to His words soothe all my fears away
And waiting for a promise someday
What is this like?
This feeling of joy
Is it unstoppable and can it really be shared
Despite fears of failures despite chaos in life
This is my joy, this is my life.
This is the reason why hope never dies
To live once again hoping for love
is such a wonderful thing
But more so to know that I am already loved
By the King of Kings
No use searching for love
In all the wrong places
Or friendly faces
But rather crying out to the One
Who romances my soul
And makes me whole
Not wanting to sound redundant
But finally grasping the confidence
That can only be found in Christ
I press onward unto the goal that is set before me
And open my heart to the One who will and is setting me free

Time Stands Still

2011-02-22T20:55:00.000-08:00

Time stands still as the day wears thin
And the sun is dipping underneath the sky
Slowly fading into the night
Stars are out and twinkle brightly
As I gaze up in wonder at the beauty
Of the skies at night
I think of you
And what this night will be like
Will it be stormy or peaceful
Calming or stressful
Or will it be a gentle wave of rest
Though we are worlds apart
You will always be in my heart.

Lies

2011-02-22T09:15:00.000-08:00

He comes like a thief in the night
Trying to steal my happiness and joy
Mocking me he brings me down
Until all that is left is a lonely soul
Searching for hope in a world gone mad
Blindly grasping for a hand to hold
I reach out for something to hold onto me tight
And to not let me go
Even in the worst of storms
My hope is not lost
To the wind or to the sea
But instead it is a part of me.
Hoping against hope that he won't leave again
But even if he does You'll be my closest friend
So hide these fears away
And keep my tears at bay
Until I meet You again in paradise
For only then will I truly realize that You paid the price
For my life and I owe You my life.

Vision in Time

2011-02-21T14:30:00.000-08:00

Prologue

    The road was filled with ruts and worn through. Cities were left behind in the wake of passing time. The bus was covered with mud from the rain-washed roads. Inside, the seats were crowded with people going to and from work, school or visiting relatives. Ladies were fashionably dressed in colorful hi-jabs, covering their heads as is the custom. Vibrant splashes of color with beautiful jewelry arrayed on their wrists and ankles. Young girls with eyes peeking out through their veils. The men were draped in their long tunic shirts and pants wearing sandals. Men with their beards neatly combed, shawls around their shoulders praying their morning prayers. Little kids dressed in their best, huddling under their momma's protective arms. As the bus rolled through the desert, Rose looked around at the beautiful chaos surrounding her and silently prayed. Covered up in her hajib she squinted down at her prayer journal hidden underneath. With eyes hooded in prayer, she meditated on the precious verses of Psalm 91: " Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence."
      As Rose read these words; she thought of the village she was visiting and how much they needed to hear this truth. She was sitting by a woman with two little girls. The girls' ages were around eight and five. The little sister clung to her older sister and would not leave her side. Their hair fell in ringlets down their back and their eyes held such innocence behind their gaze. The women was staring curiously at her. Rose smiled back. "Marhaba. Salaam alekum." She said. The women smiled and responded likewise. The two little girls hid behind their momma's veils. As Rose began a conversation with her, she prayed that this woman's heart would be opened. Suddenly the bus came to an abrupt stop. "الجميع بها. التفتيش.!." Rose was at the border of Zarka, Jordan and the guards were doing inspection again. As her stomach knotted with fear, she begin reciting the verses again about God's protection. The women started telling her little girls in Arabic what was happening. They looked startled out of their happy reverie. "Why, mommy? Why? What is happening? "Shhhh, my little darlings." As she gathered their things together, Rose quickly stuffed her prayer journal and bible in her knapsack. She grabbed her purse and slung it over her shoulder. Then she reached over and helped the lady with her things and held the two little girls' hands. As they walked down the aisle to the door that was being held open, Rose looked around to make sure no one else needed help. As the stern faced guard helped her down the steps, she smiled and thanked him. "Shokran."Her smile took him him off guard. He was used to complaining customers or angered tirades, but not such a kind response. She seemed so much more at peace. It was discomforting to him. Oh, well' nothing I should be mulling over.
Quietly making her way to the line where they checked their baggage, she made sure everything was secure. As her baggage went through the scanner she waited for the beep beep of warning saying her baggage needed to be checked thoroughly, but it never came. Breathing a sigh of relief, she thanked God silently. Grabbing her baggage off the conveyor belt she made her way to a refreshment stand. Reaching into her bag she grabbed some coins and placed them on the counter, "Two plums please and a water bottle." The young man behind the cash register reached out and then told her "one minute, miss." Waiting for her refreshment she thought of another entry she could write back home. Her adventure was just beginning. This was the start of her life in a new land.

Chapter 1

The Arrival

The interrogation had been long and exhausting. Questions back and forth were thrown at her. She had no way to keep up with all of their questions. The guards could only speak a mixture of English and gibberish. At least that's what it sounded like to her. She was ready to go and meet her roommate. Finally, after asking for the umpteenth time why she was here; they let her go. Her voice was hoarse from answering all their questions and her legs ached from standing in lines all day but other than that she was safe. Her knapsack had been searched but they did not find the bible or prayer notebook because she had hidden it well. Her guide was supposed to pick her up from the station. Sitting down on a bench, she yawned and looked at the time. It was midnight! Squinting in the darkness she saw a form moving towards her. As the form approached her, she realized it was a young man with a luggage carrier. This must be my guide, she thought but I will make sure. "Marhaba." Asking in limited Arabic, she asked if he had been sent by her roommate. He said yes and motioned to take her bags. She handed the knapsack to him but carried her purse by herself. "Shokran" she said as he took her bag. He muttered a response, "Afwan." He looked young around at least 17 or 18 years of age. As he walked her to the taxi she hoped that the ride would not be that long. She was supposed to meet her roommate an hour ago but had told her she was running late. Her stomach growled and her eyes drooped with weariness as she stumbled into the passenger's side. As he shut the door behind her she rummaged in her purse for her bottle of water but then remembered that it had been taken away from her during the interrogation. Wiping her forehead with her hand, she muttered to herself and adjusted herself to rest somewhat for a nap until they reached her destination. It would be a long trip but she was not aware of that because she had already fallen asleep.
     As the taxi sped through the city streets, Rose was fast asleep until a rude jolt woke her. Startled, she woke up and looked around. "Miss, here is your stop." Looking around confused, she studied her surroundings as best she could. Then she recognized the address in the dim light of the porch. Grabbing her belongings, she hurriedly made her way to the door and was relieved when the young woman that she expected opened the door. Relieved she went inside, greeted her roommate and then barely made it to the couch before she fell asleep. Her roommate looked at her with compassion in her eyes and slowly pulled a blanket over her. Rose would sooner or later wake up and be hungry, the roommate thought. I can fix her something when she wakes up. "Goodnight Rose, glad you are finally here to reach these women just like me." The roommate whispered. Then she exited to her own room after she prepared a snack in the kitchen. She left a cup of tea by the couch so when Rose woke up she would have something to drink. The only light in the house was a small candle flickering in the breeze by the table in the kitchen. Tomorrow would be a new day full of activity and they both needed their rest. Snuggling in her bed, she prayed that Rose would sleep well until morning prayers woke them up. Then closing her eyes, she fell promptly asleep.

Chapter 2

Morning in Zarka

"Allahumma rabba hadhi-hid da'wa-tit-tamma wa-salati Qae-ma!" The call to prayer jolted Rose wide awake. For a minute, she forgot where she was but then recollection hit her. This was the moment she had been waiting for and now she was finally here in Zarka. She swung her legs out from the couch and sat up. "There you are Rose, I was fixing us some breakfast if you would like to join me." Bella said with a smile. "Sure, "Rose smiled and said, "how can I help?" "Well, you can pour the juice and set the table." Bella said. Rose began doing as told. "Ah, what a beautiful morning, " she said as she looked out the window. The sun was shining and there was a cool breeze entering through the kitchen. The call to prayer had ceased and the morning hagglers were raising their voices to any passerby, for their morning rations must be filled. It was like a step back into time, a page-turner in history. The heart of the culture she loved and the people she prayed for. "Now, what do you want to see today, Rose?" Bella asked. "There's the market, and then there are some small shops we could go too, also there are these women I want you to meet." Bella's voice trailed off as she waited for Rose's response. "Hmm..surprise me, " she said smiling back at Bella. "Then it's decided; we will go to market. "Bella said matter a factly. "Also I want to introduce you to the women I have been counseling and such. Some of their daughters have been begging for a piano lesson from me and want to learn our ways of life. Would you like to teach them?" She said. "I would be more than happy too." Rose replied. As they sat down at their table to begin their meal, Bella smiled her gratitude and thanked God once again for bringing this sweet girl to her.

Chapter 4

The marketplace was a bustling hive of people. Hagglers from small boys to older men shouted out their morning's wares. "Nice jewelry for you miss which will make your eyes more beautiful, " shouted a jewelry maker. "Oranges, dates, figs, plums, come and get it!" A young shop boy called out. Then there were the different booths filled with pottery and beautiful colored hi-jabs and shawls. Many different colors of jewelry enticed her senses and she wondered if she would buy anything. Bella went from one shop to the other pointing out different styles she liked and then they made their way to the young shop boy. There, they bought some fruit and as they snacked on it, they walked further down the street. Suddenly, they came to an abrupt stop. There, just ahead of them was a fight that had broken out between the butcher and his assistant. "I told you, stupid boy to fix that lady some meat." The butcher roared at him. The young boy scrambled to do his master's bidding before another cut of the strap hit his back. He muttered to himself and vowed he would run away. His name was Ahmed and he had been working for the butcher since his parents died. He was 12 years old, old enough to embark on his own adventures and close enough to manhood to realize the predicament he was in. If only he could somehow leave all this and find somewhere else to live, but right now it was his only way of making a living. Rose felt sorry for the boy and had no idea what thoughts the boy was dealing with. She prayed silently as she watched the scenario play out. This was just another example of the poverty and the treatment she had viewed towards children who only means of survival was in a job they hated or beggars on the street. Bella had warned her against pickpockets too. Some were as young as 5! It was so sad what she had viewed though and she could not get it off her mind.
   Another scenario was a young lad who came up to her selling cigarettes and gum. "Miss, please buy this." She tried to ignore him, but he kept on tugging at her sleeve. As she turned away, she glanced his face. Oh my word. What had happened? His face was swollen and one eye was barely open. It looked like he had been beaten. When she asked Bella about it later, she said that his master had done that so they could get more money and that he had not sold enough in the streets yet. Shocked and abhorred at what she saw, tears ran down her face and she was forced to walk away from the boy. "Why, God, Why? " She thought to herself. This cannot be happening. Here I am blessed with a roof over my head and food to eat and clothing to wear and this poor boy gets nothing if he does not sell enough cigarettes for the day and also he gets beaten. This boy should be in school and in a loving home, yet instead he was out on the streets. Bella tried to encourage Rose by saying, " I am sorry you had to see that and I too grieve when I see such evils, but all we can do is pray and ask God for an opportunity to minister to kids like that and their owners. " Rose cried as Bella held her back at their apartment. Rose thought to herself, maybe I am not strong enough for this. The doubts started circling in her head and she was dizzy at the thought of the task set before her. "Bella, how do I reach these people and help them when I cannot prevent hurt from happening?" Rose asked Bella. " You have to trust God that He will provide opportunities to minister to these hurting children and pray for those who do this to the children for they need God as well." Rose dried her tears and asked Bella to pray with her. The only way she could complete the task would be if she relied fully on God. Wasn't that the reason she was here in the Middle East because God had sent her. Even though her heart was heavy, her view was clear; she desperately needed God to give her the strength.

Tears of anguish spilled down Rebbecca's face as she once again heard the anguished wails of her son as he was beaten by her husband; the loving man he once was now faded as if fantasy. She prayed to Allah to hear her desperate plea for help for how long could she put up with her husband's abuse. Her husband was so kind and respectful when she first met him. He was the iman's son in her village and she was just a simple women, daughter of a single mother because her father had been killed in the war.

Chameleon

2011-02-21T12:35:00.000-08:00

Colors fading into the wind
One after the other left undone
Blue, yellow, green, and purple
White, gray, and black.
How is it that life can change in a moment
People wanting me for one thing or another
Cleaning, singing, talking, dating, crying
Masks are lifted off my face
Only to be replaced
By another
Telling me what to do, how to live
Exhausted of not being what you created me to be
Constantly striving against the wind
In my face, cold cutting deep
Sooner or later I won't even know who I am.
Afraid to show my true self,
Afraid of rejection
Pain, failure,
All a hopeless mess
How can I confess
That my identity has been stolen
That I am not who I say I am
I am lost

Lines by Rose

2011-02-20T22:13:00.001-08:00

They are standing there staring at me
Like a mirror; i look at them in hopes it is just a dream.
One by one they stand in front of me with flowers in their hand.
Some offer gold, others friendship, still others a ring
But none of that satisfies my deepest need.
A line of men all in a row...walking down i watch them go
With tears streaming down my face
I let go of their embrace
And run to the one who will never let me go
My hope is found in nothing less
Than Jesus blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest name but wholly lean on Jesus' name
So when all around life is standing still
and the storms start raging
I'll put my hope in the one that doesn't disappoint
And learn to trust the one who accepts me despite my deepest flaws.
One by one the flowers fade and drop on the floor
The guys are staring, hoping for some more but i smile at them and walk right by
and only have eyes for my Bridegroom, Christ.
How deep His love is for me so deep, deeper than eternity
Nothing can satisfy; no, only Him and I want to follow Him.
So many times I ask why God, why?
And then He shows me that as time goes by
His steps are closer to me
He is pursuing me and I am running to guys
He is calling my name and I am shutting it out.
Oh how could I be so foolish to think that this is all that life is all about.
Hoping, wishing for someone to rescue me from the messiness of life
Only to find that my biggest need is my biggest strife.
How could one look melt my heart of stone
And a touch enlight the fire within.
Oh, Lord let me burn for you; only for u.
Like a candle dim within the night
The light is fading still dimmer
Until all that is left is a flicker.
I gave so much and gained nothing in return.
If this is love then there is no solace.
No comfort in love based only on a fantasy that was never true to begin with.
If i could say one thing I've learned this night is putting trust in man is plight.
For only God can satisfy. So now I let myself die to these selfish thoughts
And turn to One when I am lost. He melts this heart of stone
And looks deep within my soul and sees someone beautiful within.
I love this friend, my dearest friend
and wish with all my heart
That I would learn to trust Him and walk again from the start
Until I reach the finish line and walk into His arms outstretched around mine.

- dedicated to my Heavenly Father and best friend, Jesus-

Hope

2010-10-13T21:48:00.000-07:00

To live again looking for a vision of something
Anything to break the mundanes of life
As I fight for freedom, the truth breaks my heart
Why Is it so hard to live the life God has called me to live. I am constantly surrounded by a noise of doubt. This world seeks to destroy the very foundation I rest my soul upon.
What is the foundation? God, and His amazing grace which can never be taken away from me, though God might seem distant; it is only because I am allowing these lies and doubts to overwhelm me shutting out the truth. the perspective of what really life is all about.
Not about me, but about God. Yes, that is what it is about. Living for God is so much better than living for self. Replacing these negative doubts, I can hope again and learn from my past regrets and mistakes. Knowing full well that I am not perfect, I lean on the author and perfecter of my faith, Jesus Christ! Because He died for me, buried and rose again the third day, I can live in victory! Smalls steps of obedience leads to a highway of peace and contentment trusting in the one whose behind the wheel and resting in the passenger seat.

Writing

2010-09-27T11:28:00.000-07:00

To write again, to let the words slip from my fingers down onto the page.
I pick up the pen and begin to write but somewhere deep in the recesses of my brain is something screaming to get out. how do i allow this writer to write instead of think so much?

2010-09-27T11:27:00.000-07:00

I want so bad to write until there is nothing left, until the words on the pages stop. i have so much to learn and yet so little time . I am memory. Thinking constantly but not doing..overcomed by the past, i sink into despair. i'm nothing.

destruction

2010-03-08T13:55:00.000-08:00

The smell of human flesh rotting fills the area.
Humans ripped in pieces. Nothing left, except the bones.
Horrific deaths in the most depraved of ways.
Earthquakes that rip up the earth's surface.
Floods that ravage away homes, people and their belongings.
Fear is raging all around and panic is on the rise.
Newscasts now report breaking news on everything
Including the latest Hollywood star's personal life
Persecution is rampant in many countries
And christian are being massacred.
Every foundation of the Christian faith is falling under attack.
Destruction reeks on every corner and the end is near.
When those who know the truth trade it for a lie
How sad and depressing it must be
God has shown us the truth for a reason
We can not suppress it
Help me God to preach the truth no matter what the cost.

Poems

2010-03-02T15:41:00.000-08:00

It comes like an incessant pounding in my head
Thoughts that can not be said
Feelings that I cannot deny
A heart that cries for meaning in this life.
A shattered life that is trying to pick up the pieces
A peaceful girl in the storm looking up at the sky.
As lightning brightens up the darkness
Looking at the sun
shining in her heart
Artistic is her flair, her bright eyes full of life
Darkness covers her head and a veil of sorrow over her heart
I love them.
They are part of me.
They are my heart.

poetry is my passion

2010-03-02T15:31:00.000-08:00

It comes like an incessant pounding in my head
Thoughts of life in an ever-increasing flow
Happiness that makes me sing
Joy that fills my heart to bursting
And yet I am filled with fear
That it won't last
Tears that never end
Locked up inside
Too afraid to show what I am hiding behind
I just want peace, love, and joy
Sisters looking to me for advice.
Hugging them, I tell them everything is all right.

Real News

2010-02-22T08:54:00.000-08:00

I am sick to death of news that does not even matter. Who cares if one of the olympic skaters has a rare disease that makes him yawn all the time. Seriously? Where is the nation going when that is what most people view? Why do I even get on Facebook or waste time on youtube? It is all pointless, just a stupid mindless escape. I have decided that for Lint I am going to give up facebook and farmville. I need to find other hobbies than wasting time online. it is so aggravating!!!!!

2010-01-22T17:46:00.000-08:00

Do you ever to get to where life just pulls you down and you don't know what to do except cry? well, i'm there. This week was going great until I started doubting God's love and everything in between. I started doubting the peace He gave me and now I just feel miserable. why is it that when good things happen my first instinct is to worry that it won't last? why not just enjoy life and breathe and thank God for things. Stressed beyond belief, how did I get here? what are my goals in this life? Am I running out of steam already? It doesn't seem real. I mean just the other day I was doing great and now I feel awful. Oh, well. I know I just need to trust God. But knowing it and doing it are two different things. Maybe if I just take time to meditate on God's Word it will help. i mean not maybe. I mean I know it will help! I am confident of this very thing that God will release from whatever weight or burden this is. He will not let me fall into the pit of depression once again. I know that He will never leave me nor forsake me.

The Drifter(inspired by a book i'm reading)

2009-12-08T13:18:00.000-08:00

Adrift in the midst of a yawning wilderness
Surrounded by nothing but dry land and weeds
Searching for meaning in his life he keeps on walking.
Dreaming of a time when he can just relax and settle down
His lips are chapped, dry, and bleeding. His hands are raw from the heat of the sun.
Tired and worn from the day's travels. He settles down for the night.
Staring into the fire he dreams of better days
The orange-red glare of light hypnotizes him as it shoots up into the sky
Stars brighten the dark horizon and a shooting star flashes in the distance.
He wonders to himself where he went wrong
When did he lose joy in life? What was his purpose?
His heart cried out for something to fill that hole inside
Left there by a man he despised
God has to be real. It is not a false illusion. It is concrete.
But where did the answer lie? In the nighttime sky?
Reaching into his pocket he pulled out the little new testament his mom had given him long ago.
Turning the pages he once again opened his heart to the truth.
Maybe his circumstances would not change but at least he could have hope that God existed.
Lifting up his hands, he prayed to God for the first time in a long time.

Thanksgiving

2009-11-28T11:57:00.000-08:00

Walking down the fall strewn pathway
Looking at the trees galore
Thinking of the One who made them
And thanking Him for what life holds in store
All join in chorus singing
Our great thanksgiving song.

"Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts. Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen."

In the Midst of the Darkness

2009-11-17T12:49:00.000-08:00

Carolyn knew that it was coming. The signs were there. Economy crashing, national disasters prominent from places that used to never have these problems. Animals mutating into larger and fiercer predators. People turning more evil by the minute. The Bible had warned this would happen but she did not listen. Now, here she was alone in the church pew, tears soaking up her face wondering why she had not listened. It was not that she did not believe in God. It was just she was insecure and could not come to terms with someone who was both fully God and fully man. The only thing she ever felt towards God was distrust and anger. Her father had left when she was only 7 yrs. old leaving her heartbroken and wondering why God would allow such a thing to happen.

2009-10-26T15:10:00.001-07:00

Music is my passion. I love it. It helps me get through life. No matter how hard life is or how broken I am. God is healing me and I have so much to be thankful for.

2009-10-24T16:35:00.000-07:00

The firelight dims and the candles flicker. All is still on the eve of December.
All through the house there is a still quiet sound of snowflakes hitting the ground.
The neighborhood is covered in snowy white frosting and the stars are sparkling.
Gifts wrapped up in an array of bright colors decorate the Christmas tree below.
Fancy draperies cover the windows in a golden light and the house is ready for Christmas morn.

A cold winter night

2009-10-15T13:43:00.000-07:00

She was staring out the window waiting for him to come home. Where was he? She glanced at the clock. . She had made his favorite meal; steak and mashed potatoes and even bought him some orange slice, his favorite. Rubbing her hands up and down her arms, she suddenly shivered. The temperature was dropping steadily and the icy fingers of winter were reaching for her as if to drag her in and not let her go. Turning to go into the kitchen again, she suddenly heard the front door slam. Looking up in fright, she saw a person all covered in white. She screamed only to see the person start shaking off his coat. Then a deep rumble of laughter started as she realized it was her husband. Laughing hysterically, she raced to him and kissed him. "Tom, I was so worried about you. What took you so long?" Hush, hush, Rebekah. No need to worry, I had to run by the grocery store and get you a few things like....." Like, what?! She exclaimed excitedly. Laughing, he finally said, "chocolate." She let out a squeal and gave him a hug. "Thank you. You have no idea how happy this makes me." Her auburn hair shimmered in the candlelight and her green eyes sparkled. She was his beautiful lover and friend. His wife, the one he would always love. She served him with delight and then they both sat down at the kitchen table to enjoy an anniversary dinner together. They were celebrating their 2nd year as newlyweds. It seemed like just yesterday they were archenemies, and now here they were, newlyweds. What a blessed miracle it had been. She thought she would never marry him.

"Tommy pulled my hair daddy. He is so mean. "Brushing angry tears aside, she flung herself into her daddy's arms. "There, there sweetheart; nothing to worry about. He is just being a silly little boy." Now, how would you like to go have dinner with me tonight. Your mom is working at the school and it can just be the two of us. "Ok, daddy." Rebekah smiled through her tears. Daddy was the most handsome man she knew. His warm crinkly blue eyes, and sandy brown hair and his bear hugs warmed her heart. Rebekah was a beauty just like her mom. Auburn hair, green eyes, and a temper to match but a sweet personality to make up for it. She loved to read and cook little things for him to tempt his appetite. She was in 1st grade at Perry Elementary School in Coweta and all her teachers adored her. In a way, she was the teacher's pet whereas Tommy was the school clown. He liked to make remarks that were random and yet funny at the same time. He had dark brown hair, blue eyes, and a mischievous attitude to match it. He sat right behind her and liked to tug her braid and tease her constantly.

premonition

2009-10-15T13:04:00.001-07:00

Amanda, a young mother living in Washington State, awoke one night at 2:30 A.M. from a nightmare. She dreamed that a large chandelier that hung above their baby's bed in the next room fell into the crib and crushed the infant. In the dream, as she and her husband stood amid the wreckage, she saw that a clock on the baby's dresser read 4:35 A.M. The weather in the dream was violent; rain hammered the window and the wind was blowing a gale. The dream was so terrifying she roused her husband and told him about it. He laughed, told her the dream was silly, and urged her to go back to sleep, which he promptly did. But the dream was so frightening that Amanda went to the baby's room and brought the child back to bed with her. She noted that the weather was calm, not stormy as in the dream. Amanda felt foolish -- until around two hours later, when she and her husband were awakened by a loud crash. They dashed into the nursery and found the crib demolished by the chandelier, which had fallen directly into it. Amanda noted that the clock on the dresser read 4:35 A.M. and that the weather had changed. Now there was howling wind and rain. This time, her husband was not laughing.

Amanda's dream was a snapshot of the future -- down to the specific event, the precise time it would happen, and a change in the weather.

a blessing in disguise

2009-09-24T13:23:00.001-07:00

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

A Blessing in Disguise(part 1) will continue after edited
It is a dark and stormy night. The restaurant sits in hushed silence waiting for the impending storm. A dimly-lit light blinks on and off on the open sign. A waitress sighs from the day's workload as she cleans off the tables for any customers that need a place to dry off and just sit a spell. Rubbing her forehead where a headache had been screaming its protest , she grimaces. The restaurant is quaint but comforting. The booths are not of the finest quality but the service is genuinely friendly.It was passed down through her Grandpa who first opened the place. He was a nice, friendly fellow who always had a cheerful smile to greet the many customers and a willing ear to listen to a customer's complaints or sorrows. He worked right alongside his granddaughter and her mother. He had opened the restaurant when he was in his late 20's and had continued the business even after he got married. His newlywed happily joined him and cooking her best recipes made the restaurant flourish with her cheerful countenance and sweet personality. They were a happy couple so much in love even when hard times fell. His wife's name was Rosie and they had met at college. Rosie was studying to be a teacher and he was studying to be a business major. They met at a college get together at a mutual friend's house. Their mutual friend's name was John, a highschool friend of both Rosie and George. Soon after they become reacquainted they started dating and not to soon after George proposed. Rosie cheerfully accepted and so began there life as newlyweds. George was the organized businessman and Rosie was the flamboyant energetic kid. Together, they were a great team."Rosie, honey, would you mind baking a few more of those delicious fruit pies. We have some important guests visiting tonight. Of course, dear. I do not mind a bit. Who are these important guests coming? "The Senator and his wife." George answered. "Oh, how nice."

2009-08-29T15:00:00.001-07:00

Okay. 50 things you learn not to say or do when you work at Said

1.) holy crap

2.) God bless you

3.)come to work in jeans, t-shirt, and tennis shoes

4.)ask questions that you already know the answer too

5.)Turn the instrument case upside down

6.) yell at a customer

7.) shut down the entire server system!

8.)type in 2,888 for the price when it is like $35.00

9.)customers getting mad at you for telling them they have bad credit

10.)Forgetting to say thank you to a customer

11.)Doing homework while a customer is standing in line waiting for you to notice they are actually there.

12.)Acting stupid

2009-08-24T13:08:00.000-07:00

Ok. It's not that I hate the government or anything or that I completely disagree with everything people are saying. Butit is in fact stupid to think that we can reverse backwards to an America that does not exist anymore. Wake up, people! This is moving towards a one world government whether we like it or not. It is prophesied in Scripture that this would happen so why are we getting so bent out of shape over this? Frankly, in my opinion; the federal government planned this all along. They made sure that people buy on credit so that the economy will get worse and worse until they will have to stick a chip in our arm or head to track us and give us food. They wanted the economy to get worse and worse so we would have to rely on them more and more. I believe that people should stop relying on the federal government for those things which are unconstituional. But do you think people will be able to manage things on their own. We have like a bazillion groups that are run by the federal government. Are we supposed to rip those out and start anew? Would that be fair to those who have government jobs? WE need to look at both sides of the issue and stop thinking up these silly notions that we can change everything all at once. It is a process, people. A Process! Cashless society is here people. We can't just sit and do nothing though, but at the same time. What are we supposed to do?

2009-08-14T14:12:00.000-07:00

Letting go of this life i hold
Trusting in the one who knows
Why can't I just be free of all the worries and the cares of this world
But I trust in You, cause You know me too
And You see my aching heart.
You will touch me deep
Deeper than i can even think
Oh, God. Be near me till the end
I know that You are my best friend
Why then can I not just be real
And tell You how I really feel
The past is always near
And when I want to move on
I feel stuck in a pit of despair
But I trust in You, cause You know me too
And You see what's tearing me apart.
So I'll rely on You and trust You to heal me.
For I know that thou art near
And You calm my every fear
So much heartache inside
That I try to hide
But You see right through to my heart

To a friend

2009-04-14T20:08:00.000-07:00

I wish you could grasp His love for you
whether it be in the silence of the night
Or the breaking dawn at morning's bright
when the wind whistles through the trees
or the birds sing a worshipful melody
He is there beckoning you to come
Into His arms where you will find rest
Let Him soothe your aching heart
And wash away your tears
With his nail-scarred hands
Those men who hurt you
He watched and cried
He ached with you
Your tears were His tears
Mourning for the loss of your innocence
He rebuked the Pharisees for wanting to stone a women for adultery
He pointed out their sins until every last stone was dropped on the ground
He healed the sick, gave the blind their sight. He loved those who hated him
The samaritan at the well was a women and he talked to her which was against the custom of that time.
The harlot, Rahab was in the geneology of Christ.

missing you

2009-04-03T22:08:00.001-07:00

Apr

Missing you

Posted by Amy

Can this dream that I long for ever come true?
So many times I want to shout how I feel
But I hold it in only to find
That this love is real
Can the future hold our life together or is it just a fleeting pleasure?
Will you ever feel the same way I do
Or will I continually be pining away for you
Oh, God
Help me to let go
And trust though the road is tough
I know you have what is best for me in mind
And you will take me step by step
If only I can find my rest in You
and truly be satisfied in all that You do.
I want to shout about my love for You
but these thoughts keep drowning out the truth.
So I'll keep on praying and crying out to You
Cause you know what i'm going through
Hold me in your arms.
Never let me go.
I'll trust you despite the not knowing what the future holds
Whether death or life
Whether rich or poor
I'll follow you despite what lies in store

"Seek ye the kingdom of heaven and its righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you."

2009-02-12T11:27:00.000-08:00

Why?
do i feel the need to figure out my life. why can't I live it and enjoy it? just because i don't tell someone about Christ one day doesn't mean I am failing as a Christian. I can't stand these feelings of guilt. I am putting my schoolwork first because it is important. I am going to fail both my classes because I don't know a dang thing. i am so stressed to the point of tears and all I want to do is cry and feel sorry for myself.

Love

2009-01-06T18:53:00.000-08:00

Love. A word that is misused so much in the world we live in today. A word that holds so much meaning. Something that can conquer the fiercest of storms. In the arms of the man I love where love knows no fears or heartache. A fleeting fantasy instead of harsh reality. The Bible talks about Love as not just a feeling or emotion, but a lifestyle. Selfless, caring, not rude, not boastful, not arrogant, pure...Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things. Love never fails. The greatest love is when a man lays down his life for his friends. What does it mean to selflessly love someone? Does it mean that you keep your feelings inside? That instead of kissing him; you wait until he kisses you. I have always wondered how something as powerful as love can be controlled. In our culture, we are encouraged to not controll it but let its passions consume us. Live life and pursue happiness. You don't if this day could be your last. A woman who has an affair with a man because she yearns for love. A man who fights all the battles to rescue the women he loves. Love takes a leap of faith. It is risk to open up your heart to someone who might not love you in return. That is why I am so grateful for Jesus, my one true love because His love knows no boundaries nor is it selfish. He loves me despite my faults and weaknesses. I love Him. If I love Him then I will do anything for Him if I truly love him. Perfect love cast out all fear.

Finally Free by Nicole Nordeman

2007-07-17T13:15:00.000-07:00

No chain is strong enough

No choice is wrong enough

No mountain high enough

That He can't climb

No shadow dark enough

No night is black enough

No road is lost enough

That He can't find.

And if the Son has set us free

Then we must be free indeed.

Let the chains fall away

Starting today
Great is thy Faithfulness

Oh God my Father

There is no shadow of turning with thee

Thou changest not thy compassions they fail not.

As thou hast been thou for ever whilt be.

Great is thy faithfulness. Great is thy Faithfulness. Morning by morning. New mercies I see. Thou changest not. Thy compassions they fail not. As thou hast been thou for ever whilt be.
Everything has changed.

I'm finally free.

No pain is deep enough

No heart could bleed enough

Nothing but Jesus' love

Can Make us Free!!!!!

Everything has changed.

I'm finally free.

Everything has changed.

I'm finally free.

http://http//vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.showvids&friendID=19146191&n=19146191&MyToken=3ce5fe55-e76f-4c90-866b-e89315dce319

Yeah! I can finally write a new entry.

2007-07-17T13:09:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. I can finally write a new entry. I changed my password and figured out my username so yeah. Well summer has been boring and I've wasted a lot of time, but I'm tired of wasting time. I really want to get a job and everything. so yeah..enough about me. What matters is God. In the comin next week; i will be helpin at John 3:16 mission from july 23rd-25th so please pray for me that I will be used by the Lord and that I will catch up on some much needed sleep. I know i'm supposed to write an encouraging blog about what God is doing in my life..but i haven't read my Bible yet today so I can't post anything encouraging. sorry. it is just i don't want to be a hypocrite on this blog by saying one thing and doing the other. weell ttyl

in christ,

amy

2007-02-28T06:11:00.000-08:00

hey guys and gals..
whoever is wondering why i haven't posted in a long time..well..um..this is kind of embarassing..i forgot my password..so yeah..i saidit. well ttyl....

Daddy; i need you

2007-01-31T17:00:00.000-08:00

Have you ever felt like no matter how hard you try; you're not good enough. Well i'm hear to tell u that you are good enought and that God loves you. He doesn't care if your goth, nerd, prep, jock, or any of the other labels that the world labels you as. He cares about the real you. He looks at your heart. He is ready with arms open to receive you if you will only trust in Him. Have you ever felt like your earthly father has failed you and that you can't trust him anymore, because he has physically abused you or verbally abused you. That you can't trust him, because your parents are getting a divorce or he isn't paying for your family anymore. Well I'm hear to tell you that there is hope, because no matter how many lies the world tells you about God and that he is not just and that he is the one to blame for the many trials in your life. , Don't listen, because God will be your Father and he cares about you more than you could ever know. when the lies of the Devil say that God has failed you, He hasn't. Even if things sux in life. he knows about it and he will take care of you. "Cast your cares upon Him for HE cares for you." "Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. "1 Timothy 4:12 The world will tell you that you are not good enough. But God will tell you "I love you."

The Secret to a Clear Mind

2007-01-25T13:06:00.002-08:00

Have you ever listened to your heart too much? like your feelings and emotions or turned on the tv to drown out everything around you only to find that your mind is completely confused and it hasn't helped at all. That is how I have been feeling for the past two months and only today did I realize the secret to a clear mind. I went to www.boundless.org and read this article called Missionary Dating. It really helped me, because I finally realized that I can't listen to my emotions and feelings cause that will make it worse. The only voice I should listen to is God and when I get advice from people. Hold it up to God's standards. Wow! What a relief!

Being Real in Your Faith

2007-01-23T13:42:00.000-08:00

Have you ever felt frustrated after reading your Bible knowing that you didn't get anything out of it? Are you tired of searching for answers and not finding them? Are you frustrated with the empty head knowledge, and yet no heart knowledge? I am too. I am searching for answers. I am tired of church. I am hungry for God. Does that make sense? Correct me if I'm wrong. But isn't the Christian life a relationship with God not a bunch a rules that some Christians say it is? is it our job to point out the wrong in other people's lives? Shouldn't we be more focused on our own lives? ok..that comment sounded really selfish. what i mean is what is the difference between accountability and choking legalism? where do you draw the line? Should we tolerate other religions? what does that mean? What is the difference between a lukewarm Christian and a hott Christian for God? What does God say about conforming to the world's standards? These are just a few questions that are bothering me? share your insight too.

Really cool

2007-01-22T13:30:00.000-08:00

Check out this cool Christian website desiringGod with John Piper's sermon notes..awesome website.

Stressed out, but not Giving up

2007-01-22T13:10:00.000-08:00

So many times I am hit by the many things of life. I go to a public school where I here things that burn my ears and I feel ashamed that I am too worried about what people will do or think about me if I share the gospel with them. How can I get past this whole tolerant thing and really share the gospel? But then I am reminded of what Paul said in Corinthians how he became Jew to minister to Jews and became Greek to minister to Greeks. He wasn't saying we should be like the heathen which do not honor God with their lips and instead curse Him. he wasn't saying we should give in to our culture and dress seductively. He wasn't saying yell in their face and tell them they are going to Hell. He was saying respect their culture not to a sense that u wouldn't share the gospel with them...but a sense of respect for them as a person and individual. Correct me if I have made a wrong statement. This is encouraging to me that God will not give me more than I can handle, but so many times I found myself bogged down with the burdens of life, because I am trying too hard. I just need to give up on self and give in to God. It's that easy and yet so hard. my Flesh wants what it wants..and my Spirit wants the truth. Oh, Lord who shall save me from this body of sin. Only you God. Jesus died on the cross for your sins and mine so that we could win against the flesh. only He deserves the glory, not us. Well if i can just remember that every day; that will be good. but i fail and that's ok..cause God is right there to pick me up again. I hope this encouraged you. Well ttyl. God Bless you!

amy

Livin for Jesus

2007-01-21T21:30:00.000-08:00

Hi! my name is Amy. Welcome to my blog. This blog has been created in order to encourage my brothers and sisters in christ to stand firm in what they believe and to ask questions and open room for debate about certain issues in the world today. I hope u will enjoy this blog.