Replacement

Have you ever replaced the word "you" with your name while reading Scripture? The other day, I was reading Ephesians 1:3-10 and substituted my name. What an amazing way scripture came to life for me! Try it. As you read the Scripture here, fill in your name in the blanks.

Ephesians 1:3-10

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed _______ in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose ________ in him before the foundation of the world, that _______ should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined _______ for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed ______ in the Beloved. In him ________ has redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of _________ trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon _______, in all wisdom and insight making known to ______ the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.

I trust you were blessed as I was!

In Christ Alone

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Sacrifices

Alliance Redwoods, Ripon Grace Retreat

Last weekend was absolutely amazing! Tonight is the first opportunity I've had to write about the experience. I just loved spending the time with the ladies from Ripon Grace. I was honored and blessed to have been their speaker for the weekend. God worked so much in my life and gave me such an awesome time in His creation. I'm not sure if the retreat was for their benefit or mine. Regardless, I know that God moved mightily and called us to be more like Him.

One of the points I covered on Sunday was the sacrifices that God calls us to have. I've spent the last few days thinking of things that God is calling me to sacrifice in my life: a sacrifice of time - needing more time to study His word and more time in prayer; a sacrifice of giving up some things in order to serve more in my church. With all that He sacrificed, how can I not give up some things in my life? I want to worship and serve Him more. I want a real intimate relationship with Him. I'm going to continue seeking more of God in my life.

Romans 12:1
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.

What are you going to offer Him?

Mind Full of Thoughts

Do you know what I need? A notebook and pencil beside my bed. I've had quite a few night awakenings recently and have spent the hours in prayer. Many thoughts and plans come to mind but I don't write them down. Then when I go to do something that I had thought about in the middle of the night, I can't remember it. It sounded so good to me at the time, but now it seems as if a dream.

My friend, Lois, wrote a devotional about the Night Watches in her life. Her family could use your prayers. I am excited to see her next Thursday for a retreat. I can't believe it's only a week away! When you get a chance read her writing and spend some time praying for them. God is working wonderfully in all our lives!

Starting Off the New Year

It was time to put away the Christmas decorations, dishes, and items. It was time to refocus our family life back to homeschooling and ministry. It's been a wonderful two weeks off enjoying each other. Now, it's back to the everyday life with which God has chosen to bless us.

Our daughter will be returning home from her first mission trip tomorrow. It's been a time of stretching and teaching her. It's given me time to study and reflect on God's goodness. I've used a lot of her time being gone to study for an upcoming retreat. It's easier to study when I only have one kid around and best when I'm all alone. I'm really excited about this retreat. God is leading and teaching me more about Him, His Word, Prayer, and the blessings of a Christ-filled life. May He reign supreme in my life!