Heart and Soul Reflections

James: Mercy Triumphs Week 3

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:30:00 +0000

Girls, I don't know about you, but I was slammed by the Holy Spirit this week! WOWZA! There was so much covered in so little verses, and I have no idea where to start!

Deep breath......

For those of you watching the DVD teaching, that hour of study was jam packed with information, as usual. I absolutely love her in depth teaching, especially the deeper meanings into words in the Greek and Hebrew. Those explanations give so much depth to the scriptures.

I just want to highlight one thing, as to not leave anyone out who isn't able to watch the DVDs. Beth really drilled home the fact that our anguish can turn into joy. I couldn't agree more. Yes, that road is often wrought with pain, suffering and choking, but God has a way of always making it turn into something good. Does that scripture ring a bell with anyone? I loved that we were reminded that our pain will very often turn into our passion. For instance, my pain through several cases of depression makes that a passion of mind to teach right thinking in the Christian community about the stereotypes of depression. Does that makes sense? By sharing my past pain, I am able to help others, which brings me joy. I hope you can resonate with that message.

Now, on to Day 1, How about that intro to stop you in your tracks? Who among us has never been quick to speak? I am SO guilty of this! We tend to miss half the converation because we are formulating in our mind what we are going to say next!! Have you been there? OUCH!

I was really touched and encouraged with a quote on page 77, "Those words I planted in you have the power to save your very soul. Welcome them!" Isn't that a compelling reason to memorize scripture?

I don't want to gloss over anything that really strikes home with someone, so please let us know if there were other parts of Day 1 that really struck you. Does anyone have struggles with that "slow to anger" part?

I read the scripture in Day 2, James 1:23-24 like I have never known it before! I loved learning that James was saying that the mirror wasn't just reflecting the visual appearance of the man that he was forgetting, but he forgot who he was IN CHRIST that should have been reflecting in the mirror. Did anyone else have that revelation? "I was created to be a bearer of the very image of God."

Day 3 brought us to that sensitive word "religion". I enjoyed writing out those ways that manifest my devotion to Christ each week. It reminded me of a conversation I had with a another parent at my kids' school. We were talking about church, she asked me about my beliefs and I mentioned prayer and reading the bible, to which she replied, "Yea, I thought you guys were hard core." This really opened my eyes to what others perceive to be religious activities!!

God has really worked on my heart in recent years about missions. I got very excited reading these portions that command us to take care of the oppressed. I know that God is not finished with me in this area, and I am looking forward to where He will take me next. What did you write down on page 85 for those images that remind you of the exploited?

Days 4 and 5 flowed very nicely into one another with one central theme: if you do not show favoritism, you will be able to love your neighbor! I loved the walk through Old Testament and New Testament scripture that reinforces that God never changes: He does not show favoritism or partiality. He loves those starving in Africa the same that He loves us. It really rocks your mind when you spend time thinking about it!

This was a deep and rich week, and I fear that if I wrote everything that touched my heart, we'd be here for a very long time! Please don't be shy in the comments about what you are learning. It is all so very rich! We can't wait to hear your thoughts!

I am loving this walk through James with all of you!!

Holley Gerth Collection- God's Heart on sale at Blessings Unlimited!

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:30:00 +0000

Have you heard? Holley Gerth's amazing new book "You're Already Amazing: Embracing Who You Are, Becoming All God Created You to Be" is #1 on Barnes & Noble's book list! Blessings Unlimited is celebrating with her by offering a 40% discount off items in the exclusive God's Heart collection of Holley's designs!

This special events runs from February 19-29, so quickly head over to my Blessings Unlimited page to order before everything is sold out! (prices in your cart will be marked at sale prices)

Then you MUST head on over to Amazon and purchase a copy of this book!! (I'm not an affiliate, just a lover of books!!) I'm waiting on my copy to arrive in the mail any day and I can't wait to dive in!!

Finding Rest in Anxiety

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:30:00 +0000

I knew I was in trouble.

The overwhelming feeling of just wanting to be home was about to overtake me. I couldn't get there fast enough, to the safety of my own living room. Warning signals went off in my head; anxiety.

It's an unidentified nervousness that overtakes me without warning. My stomach is in my throat, and my skin crawls as if bugs are under the first layer of skin. It's frightening, it's scary, it's maddening.

I got home and headed straight to the couch with a blanket and my husband. My legs shake with overactive nerves, it's hard to relax; I can't get close enough to him to soak up the safety within his strong body. I'm ready for bed by 9 pm, knowing that sleep will be the best combatant to ease the tension away, to escape and hopefully, to wake to a brand new day.

I awake the next morning; it's Sunday. As soon as my eyes open, my mind begins to go over a check list, examining every symptom. Physically I appear to be fine, but my mind is wrapped in fear and apprehension. It's hard to let go of the "what if's". I arise earlier than usual, wanting time to sit quietly and pour over my bible before getting ready for church. I'm searching for the armor that will sustain me for the day. As I so often do, I turn to one of my favorite passages to comfort and encourage my soul, Colossians 1:10-14, and I am again greeted with words that give life, words that embolden courage:

worthy of the Lord                knowledge of God                   strengthened with all power

endurance and patience               glorious might                   joyfully giving thanks

   redemption              inheritance of the saints                    kingdom of light

                forgiveness of sins                                                rescued

I read it over and over again, soaking it in, as deep as it will go. As my bible lie open on my lap the opposing page is steeped in underlines and highlights. I glance over to see what scripture I had felt connection to, for that is why I mark in my bible, to remember the connection. I see Philippians 4:6. Irony is not something that lives hand-in-hand when living the faith. So I don't take lightly that God is reminding me to put this verse into practice, right at this very moment.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."

I sigh deeply, knowing this is not merely a suggestion by my Lord, but a command. How can He work in me and through me if I do not bring everything to Him? So I lay it all out before Him, surrendering those worries, concerns, and anxieties. I whisper thanksgivings, ready to enter into worship at church in the coming hours.

His presence is felt, ever near, surrounding me with peace. I sing out in my loudest song, How Great Is Our God. Tears stream down my face, as I continue laying those concerns at His feet during worship.

And He gently reminds me of this: HE. IS. IN. ME. I cannot hide, I cannot escape, He never leaves, He never alludes.

I take my seat next to my husband while our Pastor takes the stage. And my soul is restful.

****************************************

Today is my first post over at Sisters in Bloom. I hope you'll join me there today talking about online friendships.

God Restores Brokenness

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Seventeen years ago my world fell apart and I thought my life was over. My then husband walked out on my daughter and I, choosing another woman.

It was a year of heartache, change, and new beginnings. It wasn't easy, but we survived.

Because of Jesus.

He brought me back to life, gave me a life, and hasn't stopped since.

It's hard to explain that now as I look back, God had a plan for me. I couldn't believe it then, as it felt like He had forgotten me. Hardship can be like that sometimes. But He was refining me through the fire, and my life could not be what it is today without having walked through that fire.

I've been remarried now for 15 years, to a man that exceeds my every dream in a husband. God brought me to this town to meet him, knowing we were a perfect match. I had no idea how beautiful marriage could and should be, but now I'm living it.

So if you are in the valley, and you can't see where God is taking you, would you trust Him? He will take care of you, He promises in his Word that He will.

If you are struggling today, would you allow me to pray for you? Just leave a comment and I will lift you to the Throne of God over the next several days.

James: Mercy Triumphs Week 2

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:30:00 +0000

We've made it through two weeks, and already I can't believe how much I have learned! I hope you are all keeping up with your reading and homework. If you get behind, it is super easy to do two studies in one day if needed.

Today we'll head over to Natalie's place at Mommy on Fire for her Week 2 discussion. I'll meet you over there!

Ten Reasons I Love My Kindle Fire

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Husband and I bought a Kindle Fire with some Christmas money this year. I wasn't even sure of everything it could do, but Husband thought this would be a great fit for our family. Boy, was he ever right! We are all enjoying it so much that we fight for our turn! Here are ten things I love about the Kindle.

1. It is small and lightweight and easily fits in my purse. {bonus}

2. I added all the music from my computer and could even transfer my playlist of Worship songs. That means the Kindle can travel from room to room with me when I am cleaning to keep me company!

3. I have found some awesome books for only 99 cents! I love finding a bargain!!

4. I love being able to check my email and twitter without having to tote my laptop around the house with me. {or steal it from a game-playing child}

5. All those ebooks I've purchased from friends can load right up on the Kindle. Managing my Kindle is super easy from the Amazon site as well.

6. So many fun {FREE} games! Little A and I have been tending to a zoo app and are having a great time taking care of our animals. Husband loves Scrabble!

7. Educational games make waiting so much easier for the little ones!

8. The long lasting battery is such a nice change!

9. Deleting an app that just isn't right for our family is super easy with the touch of a button.

10. There is something for everyone! We all have our favorite things on the Kindle, but the problem is we only have one!!

Yep, we love it, and we would highly recommend one for your family. And I don't even get a commission for telling you that!

Sharing Our Grief Can Help

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 14:39:00 +0000

I was sitting in a room with over 200 other women waiting for the conference speaker to take her place on stage. Along with those around me, I settled into my seat, ready with my pen and paper for anything that was note worthy. I grabbed a kleenex out of my bag, just in case. I knew the speaker had a difficult testimony to share, and I wanted to be prepared for the emotions that may creep up without any notice.

As she began her presentation, it was only minutes when I needed to reach for that kleenex. She'd lost a baby just a few short hours after she was born. It was more than any momma's heart should have to bare. After sharing her story, she did the unexpected. She asked women to stand if they had ever suffered a miscarriage, a still birth, or lost a newborn baby. I hesitated only a moment before moving to my feet, chin quivering and tears rolling down my cheeks. I couldn't bring myself to turn around to see how many were standing, but I could tell by the rustle of chairs and see from my peripheral vision that over half the audience was standing in still silence.

As those who stood took their seats again, I had to leave the room. The unexpected stirring and longing in my heart was so strong, I was sure it would overtake me. I hurried to my hotel room where I could release the pressure to my throat and chest, and grieve my losses with an ugly gut retching cry as if my two babes were lost just yesterday.

Grief seems to abide by no time-table. Whether a loss is suffered weeks or years ago makes no difference. We all feel the void in our hearts and in our lives when someone is missing.

We do our best to manage the grief, as our human minds are incapable of understanding why these things happen. God's sovereignty is far above our ability to grasp His plan. But He does offer us comfort. Through many hardships I have faced, I always fall back to 2 Corinthians 1:3:

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God."

Though I don't understand God's plan in miscarriage, premature death, cancer, or depression, I do know that he has commanded me to comfort others who are experiencing the same things that I have endured. I am to share the comfort I received from God with others.

Sisters, your heartache is real. But can I encourage you to share it with others? Talking it out can also be very therapeutic in itself. Part of sisterhood is not only sharing the good times of celebration but also sharing the hard times of grief and loss. This allows others to pray for you, comfort you, and love on you. Sometimes it even gives more meaning to their own loss, as they carry out God's command to "love one another".

YOU are not alone.

Sweet Jesus, you are our Great Physician who can heal all our wounds, both physical and emotional. Please come lay your hand of healing on any grieving mother who visits here today. May she experience your peace that passes understanding. Amen.

Rebuilding Mitumba in Nairobi, Kenya

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

November 19, 2011 was a horrific day for those 30,000 people living in the Mitumba slum of Nairobi, Kenya. Everything they had was bulldozed to the ground by the government that day. What little they had, was now gone.

The Demolition of Mitumba - Eastviews Response Video from GOYA Ministries on Vimeo.

Amongst the ruins lay the remains of a Christian school, orphanage, and clinic. Pastor Shadrack and his wife Violet were devastated. Their years and years of work were gone in an instant. The families and children were scattered to the wind. After several weeks of searching and very little sleep, they were able to find all of the children and brought them into their own home, 30 sweet souls without parents.

Just months before this tragedy, the ministry of GOYA teamed up with Eastview Christian Church to support the work that Pastor Shadrack was doing in Mitumba. A visit to the United States was planned, to visit the GOYA offices and the new church partnership with Eastview.

Last weekend Pastor Shadrack and Violet came to visit Eastview, my home church. Our Senior Pastor asked for a special offering to be taken that could buy some land to rebuild the school, orphanage and clinic. We had high hopes of trying to raise $40,000. That Sunday evening they gave a presentation updating us on how things stand now in Mitumba. Our Pastor of Outreach stood to give an update on the special offering taken that morning. We didn't get the $40,000 we were hoping. Instead we gave $206,000!!! The place erupted with laughter, applause, crying and overwhelming praise for what God can do!

All of the glory belongs to God alone, as he stirred the hearts of his church to give. The doors are wide open for the school to be rebuilt and expanded to include high school! A much larger church can now be built to accommodate all those who have been coming. God has big plans in mind for Mitumba and it was an honor for this church to be a part of that movement!!

Mitumba Response-Vimeo from Eastview Christian Church on Vimeo.

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

Does A Spirit of Unbelief Undermine Your Faith?

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:30:00 +0000

"For even his own brothers did not believe in him."

John 7:5

As I read and studied this week the lessons for James, I kept coming back to the unbelieving household of Jesus family. I sense that we may all be like Beth Moore, in wanting to know more! Tell us what it was like in their house. What did they do for fun? Did they fight like normal brothers and sisters? How did Jesus act when he was in a quarrel with family members? Did his mother not sit the family down around the dinner table and explain to them who Jesus was? Yet, we're told in several places that his brothers did not believe. They even scoffed and made fun of him, inferring that he was crazy. The whole scenario just does not make any sense to me! Can anyone else agree?

So if the people closest to Jesus did not believe he was the Son of God, does it surprise us that we have trouble going "all in" with our faith? Because we can believe in some of those big promises from God, but do we really believe all of them? Does our life reflect a person who chooses to go "all in" with God, placing our entire trust, well being, decisions, and life in the hands of the Almighty Father? Or is easier to hand over only those things in life that we feel we can't handle? Do we run to the Father only in those instances when life has gotten over our head and we need a hand out of the hole we have dug for ourselves?

Let's decide to be like Abraham. He set a high example for all of us:

"Yet he (Abraham) did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised." Romans 4:20

I am guilty. Some promises I can repeat over and over in my head and truly believe them, like Jeremiah 29:11, but others I can read and not truly take them to heart, like Ephesians 3:20,

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations."

More than we ask or imagine.

Are you "all in"?

What would it take for you this week to be "all in"? How different would life look if we pushed every area of our life into the Father, and said, YES, I am all in!

Would you share with us today an area of your life that you need to turn over to Jesus that you have been in unbelief?

We'd love to know how God has been stirring your soul this week through the study!

"Everything is possible for him who believes." Mark 9:23

Ten Reasons to Boycott Offensive Advertising

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Our family looks forward to the Super Bowl each year for the fun of hanging out with family and friends, eating great food, watching superb football, and being entertained by fun commercials.

This year when I saw that GoDaddy.com was featuring a Super Bowl ad, I was immediately apprehensive because they haven't always shown the best taste in the past. Unfortunately, they proved me correct again this year. I won't send you to their website to see the commercial because I don't want to give them any traffic, but the commercial was essentially two guys dreaming of half naked women telling them about web hosting. Trust me when I say you paid very little attention to the information, because the women were in high "Victory Secret" regalia of very little clothing.

Here are my Top 10 Reasons to Boycott GoDaddy.com:

1. Super Bowl time is family time-still in prime time. My children don't need to see this kind of low advertising.
2. The commercials were a simple means to peddle soft p*rn through my living room.
3. The marketing approach was obviously created by men for men.
4. I didn't appreciate the 90% naked women being flaunted in front of my husband.
5. What are you selling? It certainly wasn't clear from that commercial.
6. Using sex to sell is entirely degrading to women.
7. They offended 50% of their target market and especially the powerful mommy bloggers.
8. The $3 million spent on that commercial could have provided clean water for thousands of people, or food and shelter for those without.
9. Using sex to bring attention to yourselves is insulting to our intelligence.

10. It's time to send a message to advertisers that we are tired of smut being displayed in the name of advertising. Let them know how you feel -- don't use their services.

...stepping down from soap box.....

What do you think? Was I the only one offended??

Need an alternative? Go check out www.puritynames.com. They've got it going on! Purity Names was founded to give individuals and organizations a chance to establish their presence on the internet without having to patronize companies who enable and profit from the spread of pornography. As the world's first and only family friendly domain name registrar, we ensure that the domains we sell and the websites we host are not used for pornography. Unlike other companies, we turn away those who want to engage in the distribution of obscene material because we don't want to be associated with such activity.

Now that is a company I can stand behind and support!!

A Prayer Life that Alludes

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 12:30:00 +0000

"Today He sits on the throne of His Majesty on high, and He holds out to us the sceptre of His power. Shall we touch it and tell Him our desires? He bids us take of His treasures. He yearns to grant us "according to the riches of His glory," that we may "be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man." He tells us that our strength and our fruitfulness depend upon our prayers. He reminds us that our very joy depends upon answered prayer.

And yet we allow the devil to persuade us to neglect prayer! He makes us believe that we can do more by our own efforts than by our prayers--by our intercourse with men than by our intercession with God."

"Shall we begin today to be (wo)men of prayer, if we have never done so before? Let us not put it off till a more convenient season. God wants me to pray. The dear Savior wants me to pray. He needs my prayers. So much--in fact, everything--depends upon prayer. How dare we hold back?"

"Do we spend ten minutes a day in prayer? Do we consider it important enough for that? Ten minutes a day on our knees in prayer--when the Kingdom of Heaven can be had for the asking? Ten minutes? It seems a very inadequate portion of our time to spend in taking hold of God! If God were to answer the words we repeated on our knees this morning should we know it? Should we recognize the answer? Do we even remember what we asked for?"

"He does answer. He has given us His word for it. He always answers every real prayer of faith."

The Kneeling Christian, author unknown

Oh Lord Jesus, will you teach us to pray? Will you give us the unquenchable desire to come before you each and every day and lay our lives down before your Throne, asking for your will be done, seeking your desire, aching as your heart aches? Father, will you beckon us to your Throne room, kneeling at your feet, soaking in your Radiance, bowing before your Glory. Show us your heart, Lord, so that our prayers may be in step with the Spirit. Draw us close, Jesus. In your name, Amen.

It's Super Bowl Weekend - Are You Ready to Support Your Husband?

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:55:00 +0000

Unless you are living under a rock, you are aware that this weekend is the Super Bowl. (at least I HOPE you are aware!) I know as women sometimes it may be hard for us to get all excited about sports, but what is important is that we support our husband if he is excited for this weekend!

Wouldn't your husband just love if you whipped up some fun snacks and sat with him during the game? Better yet, what if you had a little football information under your belt that you could blow him away with your knowledge?

Here is a quick Cliff Notes version for you to be prepared!

It is Super Bowl 46, happening in Indianapolis, Indiana at the Lucas Oil Stadium.

Kick off is 6:30 ET.

The game features the New York Giants and the New England Patriots.

Tom Brady is the very famous and talented quarterback for the Patriots. This is his 5th Super Bowl, having already won 3.

Eli Manning is the Giants quarterback. No slouch himself, he has also had an impressive career. This is his second appearance at the Super Bowl, having won the first appearance.

This game is a rematch of Super Bowl XLII in 2008, which the Giants won 17-14.

Madonna is the half-time performer and has promised no wardrobe malfunctions!

So there you have it! Hopefully you can go impress your husband, enjoy some tasty treats and enjoy those ridiculously priced commercials.

Angels in the Battlefield

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:30:00 +0000

In some reading I was doing this week in the book of Daniel, Chapter 10, I came across a passage of scripture that got me to thinking:

10 A hand touched me and set me trembling on my hands and knees. 11 He said, "Daniel, you who are highly esteemed, consider carefully the words I am about to speak to you, and stand up, for I have now been sent to you." And when he said this to me, I stood up trembling. 12 Then he continued, "Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them. 13 But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia. 14 Now I have come to explain to you what will happen to your people in the future, for the vision concerns a time yet to come."

I was given a strange comfort in knowing that there are times God has sent his angels to us in answer to our prayer requests, and sometimes even the angels encounter battles with Satan that keep them from administering to us right away.

In the previous parts of Daniel we learn that he had been fasting and praying for 21 days, the exact amount of time that the Angel was battling the demons of Satan.

If we had x-ray vision, I wonder what kind of spiritual wars we would witness going on all around the world each day as Angels are dispensed to go to battle on our behalf.

Just something to think about.....

The James Study Introduction

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:30:00 +0000

WELCOME TO OUR ONLINE STUDY

"JAMES: MERCY TRIUMPHS"

BY BETH MOORE

Natalie and I are so excited to get this study started! We have both been through the first week and the first video of the study, and in true Beth Moore fashion, she has knocked it out of the park! Each day's homework will only take you about 15 minutes to complete, so I think we can all handle that!

Let me introduce myself to any of you who may be here for the first time or are visiting from Natalie's blog. My name is Cherie and I have been blogging for about 2 years. I've been a Christian since childhood, although I've had my share of difficult times throughout my life. But above all else, Christ has always been my Rock! I've been married for 15 years to my fantastic Husband, and we have 3 girls, ages 21, 11 and 10. I work part time as an Administrative Assistant, and I do some Virtual Assistant work on the side from home.

Now let me introduce you to Natalie! You are going to absolutely love her heart and her encouragement! I met Natalie through blogging (it turns out we only live a few hours from one another), and then had the pleasure of meeting her in person at The Relevant Conference and the Hearts at Home Conference. Natalie is the real deal! She is a momma and wife, and is one busy woman!

Shall we get into the details of our study? Each week you'll have some daily(5 days) homework to complete, which includes some reading and answering of questions. Then on Wednesdays you'll come check in here for our discussion questions. I will host the odd weeks and Natalie will host the even weeks, so week one will be back here at my blog. We have also set up a private Facebook group, so if you feel you want to share prayer requests or something personal, you can feel comfortable sharing there. We'll work very hard to get everyone friend requested and added to the group quickly.

You also have the option of heading over to the Lifeway site to purchase and download each week of Beth's sermons prior to that weeks homework. We want to be sure that you know that this is OPTIONAL! You will have a very enriching study with or without the videos, so please feel no pressure to have to purchase the videos.

Our schedule is as follows – facilitator listed in parenthesis!

February 8: Discuss Week One and Video One (Cherie)

February 15: Discuss Week Two and Video Two (Natalie)

February 22: Discuss Week Three and Video Three (Cherie)

February 29: Discuss Week Four and Video Four (Natalie)

March 7: Discuss Week Five and Video Five (Cherie)

March 14: Discuss Week Six and Video Six (Natalie)

March 21: Discuss Week Seven and Video Seven (Cherie)

March 28: Concluding Thoughts and Wrap-Up (Natalie)

So there you have it! If you plan to follow along with us, be sure to contact either myself or Natalie so we can get you hooked up with the Facebook page. Other than that, start your study today and we'll see you back here next Wednesday for some fellowship and questions!

Now, let's start with some chit-chat! Introduce yourself in the comments below!!

LifeWay Women's Newest Study - Nehemiah: A Heart That Can Break

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:30:00 +0000

I don't know if you guys are familiar with LifeWay Women, but they have some incredible bible studies over there! I am really excited that their newest study, Nehemiah: A Heart That Can Break, by Kelly Minter, will be kicked off tomorrow with a live webcast and Facebook party at 11 a.m. (CST) Feb. 1, 2012!

The party will get started with live segments and online guests participation with special guests Beth Moore and Lisa Harper. Oh and did I mentioned giveaways? The “Nehemiah” Facebook party giveaways include:

● Kindle Fire
● $100 LifeWay Gift Card
● Bundle of other LifeWay Women products, such as No Other Gods Bible study,
Ruth Bible study, Loss, Love & Legacy CD, and a Nehemiah kit
● Nehemiah kit
● Tickets to LifeWay’s new Abundance event

Here is what the author, Kelly Minter had to say about the study, “My goal in this study is not to uncover every word [in Nehemiah], but to follow missional themes about service, Kingdom work, tender hearts, prayer, love of the poor and the sacredness of Scripture,” said Minter.

WOW! I don't know about you, but that sounds like an amazing study to me! I can't wait to get my hands on this book!!

I hope to see you over at the party tomorrow!

No Matter What - OUR GOD REIGNS

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 12:30:00 +0000

OUR GOD REIGNS

nation wars against nation

OUR GOD REIGNS

famine wars against innocence

OUR GOD REIGNS

disease wars against flesh

OUR GOD REIGNS

Satan wars against souls

OUR GOD REIGNS

children war against parents

OUR GOD REIGNS

peoples war against governments

OUR GOD REIGNS

evil wars against good

OUR GOD REIGNS

"God reigns over the nations; God is seated on his holy throne."
Psalm 47:8

Are You Confused about God's Jealousy?

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:30:00 +0000

I was never an Oprah Winfrey fan. I did not watch her show, but would catch occasional glimpses of her through other media. Just the other day a video was being shared around Facebook of Oprah denouncing Jesus.

I felt it was a sad day. Unfortunately, I had believed all along that Jesus was not her Savior, but this really was the final confirmation. Often times she would mention things in passing that were vague and left all of us wondering. Well now we know.

But what I found most disturbing about this video was the fact that she said when she was a young adult she heard a sermon that stated that God was a jealous God, and she decided right then that she couldn't believe in Him if he were jealous of her.

jealous of her

I grieve the fact that she totally misunderstood how God is jealous. If this is something that you don't understand, I encourage you to look deeper.

God has never stated that he is jealous of us. God is jealous for us. There is a big difference.

"Do not worship any other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God."

Exodus 34:14

Because of His great love for us, He hates when we put other things before Him. When something else becomes an idol, or as in the Old Testament, when the people were worshipping other gods, He became very jealous because our affection is misplaced. As Creator of the Universe, He deserves our undying devotion and attention.

He is also saddened when His power has made something happen, and human beings take the credit. His glory has been stolen right out from under Him. All praise and honor belongs to the Lord, not to us.

The Bible is certainly a complex, and sometimes frustrating book! But God has provided many scholarly individuals who can help us understand those things that don't quite make sense to us. Please, if there is something you don't understand, talk to someone about it. Don't let it shape your faith, or worse, turn you away from faith.

In the meantime, praise God that he loves YOU so much that he wants ALL of you!

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Don't forget our online book study of "James: Mercy Triumphs" by Beth Moore begins next Wednesday, February 1st right here! Check out this post for more info!

Life as an Uphill Battle

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Do you ever feel like the life you are living is a daily uphill battle? Nothing comes easy and every decision is hard?

I think sometimes we slowly wander away from God's direction in our life. When we are no longer walking in the Spirit, life becomes hard. It happens before we know it, and suddenly we are struggling to squeeze any joy out of life.

If you are a bible believer, and I sure hope that you are, we know that the bible is a complete story from beginning to end. We've lived much of it and are waiting for the remainder to happen. Do you realize that your life is within that story? Your life is happening right now between the books of the bible preceeding Revelation. We know that part of history has not happened yet.

And so I wonder......

If we looked at this story, your story a little differently, would it reshape our thinking? Because before you were born, God knew you. He also knew where you fit into HIS story. Before you were born He had plans all laid out for you. Is life a battle because we have abandoned those plans that God has already prescribed? We, you and I, have been chosen to do something important that God is doing within the story.

God is saving, rescuing and blessing.
He is providing, judging and healing.

A war is in progress;

evil vs good
unhappiness vs joy
pain vs healing
ignorance vs wisdom
life vs death
hope vs despair
heaven vs hell

Which side of the story will you choose? We either choose God's side or we defect from it.

Life is a battlefield, and unless we choose to play on the winning side, it will be an uphill battle of frustration, pain, and heartache.

God chose you for HIS side. Come back and join Him on the winning team! The Battle is the Lord's!

A Hole in the Gospel - Just One CAN Make a Difference

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:20:00 +0000

The book laid in my "to do" pile for months on end. I was sure it was good, it had gotten all kinds of attention and book reviews. I just knew I wasn't ready to be convicted or shamed for not doing my part. And so it sat. On my bookshelf, unread...where it couldn't reach me.

Then I ran into a friend at church just before my trip to Haiti. He asked if I'd ever read The Hole in the Gospel - if not, I really needed to read it before I go. I smiled-nope, hadn't read it. Still sitting on my bookshelf at home...where it couldn't reach me.

My heart was sufficiently nudged. After all, I did want to be as prepared as I could be for my trip to Haiti. If this book was going to help, then I better read it. So I reached for the book, sat down, began reading, and couldn't stop!

Yes, it reached right into my heart.

Richard Stearns, the current President of World Vision (which I love) tells the wonderful story of how he became President. It certainly is not what you would expect, and it was entertaining, funny and poignant.

Even more so are the stories he tells of his many encounters with the recipients of World Vision's services. I was moved beyond words at what he has witnessed first hand in some of the poorest nations on earth. I was able to move beyond the common misconception that one person cannot make a difference.

"What if there are children who will suffer somehow because I failed to obey God? What if my cowardice costs even one child somewhere in the world his or her life?"

I began seeing God's command to care for the sick, the lame, the orphans, the homeless, the poor, and the widows in a completely differently light. What if we took the Bible literally? Wouldn't this be it's message?

"For I was hungry, while you had all you needed and more. I was thirsty, but you drank bottled water. I was a stranger, and you wanted me deported. I needed clothes, but you needed more clothes. I was sick, and you pointed out the behaviors that led to my sickness. I was in prison, and you said I was getting what I deserved."

God does not have different levels of compassion on his children based on their geographic location, their nationality, or their language. God loves EVERY one of his children, and we are to do the same. This is where Stearns proclaims that our gospel has a hole in it. We as Christians have accepted salvation, but stopped there. We have forgotten that faith requires work.

My eyes were opened when I read that if we were to poll the world's populations and gather them into 100 people, this is what the group would look like:

60 would be Asian

14 would be African

12 would be European

8 would be Latin American

5 would be American or Canadian

We are the MINORITY! The disparity is astounding! The gap between the wealthy and the poor continues to grow. What is the answer?

If the American church (not even the whole world) would tithe at the biblical 10% we could bring an end to world hunger AND the clean water crisis. Seriously-$168 billion. (Americans spend $31 billion each year on pets alone!)

So I read the book, and as you can see, it has had quite an impact on me. Fast forward two weeks when I landed in Haiti on a mission trip.Our host for the week was Pastor Manno, who heads up Haitian Christian Ministries. When he was a teenager an American missionary decided to pay for his college education and sent him to the United States. He earned his Seminary degree and returned to Haiti. He is now running a ministry that feeds 1000 kids every day! Children are receiving an education and a hot meal every day because ONE PERSON decided to do something. ONE PERSON made an investment. Stearns was right.

YOU may be that ONE person that makes a huge impact and begins a domino effect that could change thousands of lives every day.

I bet God has just the place He wants you to make a difference. Listen, just listen, and He will whisper it in your ear.

Then....go stand in the gap. Plug that hole in the gospel and watch our world change right before your very eyes!!

But before you go.....read this book! You'll be glad you did!

Sisters in Bloom - A New Collaboration

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:30:00 +0000

Sisterhood - congenial relationship or companionship among women;

mutual female esteem, concern, support.

An organization of women with a common interest.

Every now and then an opportunity presents itself, an opportunity to focus on something near and dear to your heart, and you just can't help but jump up and down with excitement.

As women we long to belong. We long to have friendships that are deep and real. We have insatiable appetites for community. We need to be encouraged, but we also love to come alongside others to encourage them as well.

I have the privilege of introducing you to a brand new site that will help us all do just that. Today is the official launch day of Sisters in Bloom.

Thirty three women have come together with the vision and desire to create a Godly community of women who desire to walk alongside one another, in grace and truth, as we all do life together.

I sure hope you will join us! Grab a cup of coffee, curl up on the sofa, and stop on by Sisters in Bloom to get to know us. We can't wait to meet you!

Online Book Study - James with Beth Moore

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 12:30:00 +0000

I've been waiting several weeks to be able to share this announce with all of you! Mark your calendars for February 1st for week one of the online bible study, "James: Mercy Triumphs" by Beth Moore! I am very excited to be co-leading this study with my great friend Natalie from Mommy on Fire. She's has a huge heart for the Lord and I guarantee you will just love her!

We'll do an 8 week study, with week one being an introduction. Each Wednesday, Natalie or myself will post thoughts and reflections as well as welcome discussion among participants in the comment section. For those of you on Facebook, we will also start a group where we can keep up with one another with thoughts that come to mind or questions that you want to raise for discussion. Depending on how many participants also have a blog, we might even host a link-up for your own posts.

All you have to do is head over to Lifeway to grab your copy of the workbook. You'll have several levels of participation to choose from. You can choose which level fits your season of life right now!

Watch Videos: Participating in the video sessions only
Complete Homework: Participating in the video sessions + doing the weekly homework assignments
Hand write James: Participating in the video sessions + doing the weekly homework assignments + handwriting the Book of James
Read Articles: Participating in the video sessions + doing the weekly homework assignments + handwriting the Book of James + reading “The Next Level with Melissa”
Memorize James: Participating in the video sessions + doing the weekly homework assignments + handwriting the Book of James + reading “The Next Level with Melissa” + memorizing the Book of James

So you have lots of options! I can't wait to dig into this book with Beth Moore, along with her daughter Melissa, who gives some fantastic church history information at the end of each week of study.

So there you have it! Are you ready?

If you are in, would you please let us know via the comment section? We would love to know who's studying with us!

Bibles of Old - Hidden Treasures

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

If these bibles could talk

what would they say of the one

who read it's pages?

Each one over 140 years old

discarded at a library sale-

but found a new home here,

in wonderment.

Were the lives that owned

them richer for this possession?

Were they counseled,

comforted,

challenged,

guided?

Treasures, I think.

My Talented Lego Artist

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 04:09:00 +0000

I know this totally gives away my age, but I just had to boast about the creativity and ingenuity of my 11 year old. She created this birthday card for me from legos!

Now that is amazing!

Birthday Bash Winners

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 16:08:00 +0000

Congratulations to our winners for the week:

Karen from Faith, Family & Fibro has won the Prayer Journal.

Sharon from Thoughts for the Day has won the Note Cards.

Ladies, send me your shipping info!!

Birthday Bash Wrapup

noreply@blogger.com (Cherie) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 14:06:00 +0000

Well it's been a fun week here, giving away some goodies. I hope you've had fun. Be sure to check out all the entries you can still make. I'll be drawing winners tonight and posting tomorrow.

Don't forget to stop over at Monday's post to enter to win a Prayer Journal!

My favorite Digital Scrapbook Designer, Jennifer Labre, is also giving a 25% off discount code to her store. Use code CherieBday.

Leave a comment on yesterday's post to enter to win some of my photography note cards.

Thanks everyone! Have a great weekend.