tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25071903195855441742024-03-19T05:48:14.445-07:00Humbly HisBringing glory to Christ in every way I canHPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-75080345224844299842013-04-20T00:24:00.000-07:002013-04-20T00:24:02.821-07:00Waiting Patiently, Humbly Submitting<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Patience. </b></span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm still learning these lesson time and time again. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I never seem to learn it the first time, or the second, or the one hundredth. This has always been an area I've struggled in and I feel like it'll always be an area I struggle in for the rest of my life. As I continue to grow, I've started to notice a lot of areas in my life in which I can be impatient in: driving, with others, with the Lord's timing, school, marriage. It's difficult when it seems so easy to take things into my own hands and do things how I would want to do them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So generally, the root of all my impatience is attributed to selfishness. I want things done in accordance to my plans, my time, my preferences. It's rather horrible. It's even more horrible when I start to justify my selfishness in my mind. Somehow, in some way, shape or form, I manage to justify my selfish actions.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Submission</b>. I'm still learning this as well.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'm learning to submit to the God-given authority in my life, even when I still don't understand everything. It's hard to submit when I don't see any concrete evidence for reasonings. It's hard to submit when I think I'm right. It's hard to submit with a happy heart, or a heart of obedience. It's hard to submit when I feel like I've given every reason possible to pursue something and yet the answer is still no. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Again, the root of my unwillingness to submit with a happy heart is rooted in my selfishness. The wanting of my own desires and fulfillment of my ideas. I would say selfishness makes it very easy not to submit to the God-given authority in my life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As I ponder all these things, I can't help but think of how sinful I am in my though process in both patience and submission. It does come down to my pride and selfishness. And when I think this way, I'm ashamed. I'm ashamed because I remember Jesus' example and ultimate display of submission to even death on a cross. Here I am, having such an ungrateful heart and discontentment in the little things, but not like I had to experience God's full and complete wrath to punish sin. It's because of Christ that I have been made right in the eyes of God. I've been forgiven of all my sins. It is because of Christ's death on the cross that my soul is counted as righteousness and holy. So then I look at myself and reflect on my own attitude. Why do I justify my selfishness to not be patient or submissive? It's the easy thing to do. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">JP was gracious to point me to Christ and reminded me that submission doesn't only occur when it's convenient or easy. Submission happens when its hard, when it doesn't make sense. And to submit to the God-given authority of my life because it brings glory to the Lord. The Lord is teaching me patience and submission constantly and it's a battle every time. But it's by His grace and mercy that I can continue to push towards patience and submission. It's by His strength that I can and have accomplish what I've accomplished. I just pray that the Lord would be glorified in every aspect of my life: thought, word, and action. I pray that He would give me the endurance and humble attitude to act patiently and to submit with a happy heart.</span>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-80941285310330947072012-12-04T17:20:00.001-08:002012-12-04T18:26:36.826-08:00Contentment within this Season<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As the holiday season approaches, many are frantically flooding the mall hoping to find things for others and find things for themselves that might possibly make them content.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">But how long does that contentment last?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Are we as a human race only to find happiness for a short amount of time and then move onto something else that might temporarily satisfy our happiness as well?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We keep running this race of setting up goals for ourselves. We find ourselves running at things saying, "Just one more! Then I'll be satisfied." What are we trying to satisfy in the first place? We turn to possessions, relationships, food, music, you name it, to fill this void that we can't seem to fill. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Whether we want to acknowledge it or not, we are searching for things that only One can wholly satisfy. Why are we looking to the temporary to satisfy our eternal needs?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As Christians, it is so easy to be influenced by our culture. A little too easy. Our culture tells us what we need, what we want, who we need to be. But as Christians, where does our identity lie? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Paul says in the letter to the Ephesians that because of what Christ has done on the cross on our behalf, we are "no longer strangers and aliens, but are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God..." and "Therefore [we are to] be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God" (2, 5:1-2). So since "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life of I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me" (Galatians 2:20).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Since we are in Christ, who is our everything, why do we turn to worldly possessions in hope to find satisfaction? Is God not all-knowing? Is He not sufficient for you? "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We have become a selfish human race, unfortunately. This is what our culture presses upon us: that we should hold ourselves high, consider ourselves, and have self-empowerment. Who are we to steal glory from God who deserves all the glory? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">He gave us the ultimate gift that no one else could give. He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, to die on our behalf. "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us... " (Galatians 3:13). We are a sinful race. There is absolutely nothing that we, as a sinful human race, can do to win even the slightest favor in God's eyes. "So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy" (Romans 9:29). Christ died in our place that was rightfully ours. And to prove that He was Lord, he rose from the dead three days later. "In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins" (1 John 4:10). So then, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">So instead of considering how we feel or what we want this holiday season, why not consider the good works that God has done for us. Stop contemplating on things that you don't have, but be grateful for what you already have: salvation in Christ.</span>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-59561337841458898082012-07-18T10:22:00.005-07:002012-07-23T18:03:56.416-07:00Hope for Sudan: Micah 6:8<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Border Region, Sudan, Africa.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Photo courtesy of Kyle Kim and Global Post</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /><br /><br /><br />This is where my heart goes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This is where my heart breaks.<br /><br /><br />Right now, in Sudan, there are 200,000 civilians being starved to death.<br />This has gone on for several years.<br /><br /><br />Unfortunately, this has been brought to my attention recently.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">And now, I bring it to yours. So please, bear with me. Pray with us. Join us.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Where we sit as a country, we are comfortable, in our homes and offices.<br /><br />Where Sudan sits as a country, they are running. Running on empty. Running for their lives. They are dying.<br /><br />We, as a country, have so much.<br />And what of the Sudanese people? They have their hunger, fear and imminent death.<br /><br />What can we do?<br /><br />These are the facts and this is our mission:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">These stifling facts have weighed heavy on the hearts of people at <a href="http://www.hopesanmateo.org/" target="_blank">Hope Church</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />I ask that you join us. Help us. Help us help these people.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Help us by praying, giving or going.</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: red; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">PRAY:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Pray BOLDLY. Our God is mighty. He can do all things.<br />Pray for this effort.<br />Pray for Sudan. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Pray for the people. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Their physical state, their bodies, their lives. There is a lack of food. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Their spiritual state, their souls, their eternal lives. Though their lives, here, on earth, have value, this value is insignificant in comparison to their eternal souls.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Pray that they hear the gospel and be renewed and transformed by it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Pray that they hear of Jesus Christ, what He has accomplished for us on the cross and believe.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Pray for their leaders. That they would come to know Christ, repent and follow Him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Pray for those that are saved. That they would have perseverance through this fight.<br /><br /><br /><b>GIVE:</b><br />As you know, the first stage of our effort is to raise $25,000 in five weeks. We ask that you give as much as you can, whether it be $1, $10, $100. Anything will help us mobilize this mission.<br />You can <a href="https://www.paypal.com/us/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_flow&SESSION=7bPez2LTPbLVqo9p0Vptz4Dn1ToNCcmAFGjzLb7pHsxaOZPg67KgUDBCWWe&dispatch=5885d80a13c0db1f8e263663d3faee8d7283e7f0184a5674430f290db9e9c846" target="_blank">DONATE HERE</a> or send a check to the following address:<br /><br />Hope Church of San Mateo<br /> PO Box 25268<br /> San Mateo, CA 94402<br /><br />Be encouraged to know that we have raised 20% of our goal, so far.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Will you join our efforts?<br /><br />We have so much to give. So will you?<br /><br /><b><br /><span style="color: #38761d;">GO:</span></b><br />We are not asking you to go to Sudan this instant, although it is very needed. We are asking you to <br />Go educate yourself. Find more to this issue that what's been provided here. (Links provided below with additional information.)<br />Go inform your family, friends, co-workers. <br />Go tell everyone you know, not just the people you think will make a difference. <br />Go raise awareness on this topic. <br />Go repost this blog or our site: hope4sudan.hopesanmateo.org<br />Go get involved with us at Hope.<br /><br /><br />Our efforts here are not to make much of ourselves, but to make much of Christ, who has given us more than we could ever repay.<br /><br />So I, as your friend, ask you to pray, give AND go.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Additional information about the events that have occurred in Sudan:</span><br />
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<center><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="283" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/43381822" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe> <br /><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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<a href="http://www.twitter.com/hopeSM4sudan%20" style="color: #4d469c;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">www.twitter.com/hopeSM4sudan </span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jwc6NGS6emw&feature=related" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Besieged in Sudan's Border Region</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/articles/franklin_graham_statement_on_sudan/" target="_blank">Samaritan's Purse</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://m.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/may/20/conflict-nuba-mountains-epidemics?cat=world&type=article" style="color: #4d469c;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Conflict in the Border Region of Sudan</span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQ1_9oDeSlQSSWtWFj8UDXGcedh33ufrhVzwHEtqJj-FdJnwV_iquRRbZ8v5YwoSUxWBjvKcy_Alo4XeXk2Kzkqn5T5Sk9ENzGtZzDNM2U7P0nlENEeShjLuV6IxYuq61PrAXBPZqq6ju/s1600/Hope4Sudan+button.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij81ZHJf2qevX3MV5KCg-UjMfBYZm5g6xUvSmLfmc7Masq_-xAucXZYJs7QFLH_OiQ7mKyfKRCpgILPQ9S2kmgyWE142fNWAhd9AJToyW9QKonCmfMA3qPDTBDXBln571x-4qgpvlJ2otJ/s1600/hope4sudan+button.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><i><br /><br />He has told you, O man, what is good;</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>and what does the LORD require of you</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>but to do justice, and to love kindness,</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>and to walk humbly with your God?</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">(Micah 6:8 ESV)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-17121013871968514282012-06-17T23:35:00.000-07:002012-06-17T23:38:30.239-07:001 Thessalonians 5:16-18<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This truly was my theme this whole 2nd year around in college. There were most definitely many things to pray, rejoice and give thanks about.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I got all my classes that I needed regardless of my late registration date. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I took Anatomy Lecture, Anatomy Lab (mind you, this class came with a cadaver... or 13), ASL 4, Intro to Jazz, and Educational Psychology in Children. I was also a T.A. for an ASL 1 class.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">"So, uh, you know that anatomy final I was supposed to study for?"</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">My schedule consisted of study, study and study. I was most definitely busy. If not with school, it was with the acappella group and Bible Study.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The Acappella group went on tour during spring break in Northern California.That was most definitely fun. I don't know if I want to do that this next year, seeing how much work and time was put into this, but I'll do it again another time. Just not next year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9MdN7xPXim6jVRm9t8EIQRok958LCle_TOdVaD3SmF-_xb6RD_i05Aw3OW-rmotqYaDTL-G2rYfMAf1ybcQQUA9rcq7-yfUEtwPa6Pur-ZTLAX3zG5pZqY7lxMf2TTgqjoCpwm9x59-js/s1600/acasola+tour+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9MdN7xPXim6jVRm9t8EIQRok958LCle_TOdVaD3SmF-_xb6RD_i05Aw3OW-rmotqYaDTL-G2rYfMAf1ybcQQUA9rcq7-yfUEtwPa6Pur-ZTLAX3zG5pZqY7lxMf2TTgqjoCpwm9x59-js/s320/acasola+tour+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">On tour in Northern California!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Bible Study was most definitely an adventure. I had the joy in being a part of a small group and in this small group, we went through <a href="http://www.gbibooks.com/Details.aspx?ID=9780801065279" target="_blank"><i>"Praying Backwards" </i>by Bryan Chapell</a>. This book was such an encouragement to me. I really would recommend you read this. It's obvious that prayers are meant to be a reflection of the heart, but I often times find my prayers becoming repetitious. This book has reshaped my prayer life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">So as you can see, there was a lot to be praying, rejoicing and giving thanks about. I most definitely couldn't have done any of this with my own strength. The Lord was my source of strength. Through this all, the Lord was reminding me on a daily basis of his goodness, simply from waking me up in the morning to start my day. Why is it that we only thank God for the big things in life? Is it because it's more noticeable? Why not give thanks to the Lord for every single little thing, regardless of how significant or insignificant?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I can tell you that it is easier relying on the Lord when things get rough. The challenge I faced was to continuously praise the Lord when things were good. Kind of odd, seeing that it's the opposite for others. When things were good and easy, I started finding other things to occupy my time instead of filling it with being in the word or praying. I was instantly convicted of this. 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 calls us to praise and give thanks to the Lord in all circumstances. When things are going well, I found it easy to turn attention away from God and to myself. I was content with where I was. I didn't see any needs to change it because things were going so well.<br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">But it is because of the Lord that I live, breathe, and walk this earth. It is by him that I can be his child, his own. It's all by him that I can be called his own. It is by him that I understand and live in light of the gospel. My understanding that I am nothing apart from Christ.That I am shown grace on a daily basis. That God sent his perfect, holy son, Jesus, to die on the cross for my sins and raise again from the dead to prove that he was lord. That it is by the Lord that my desires are his desires, to turn away from my sins and live a life that is honoring and glorifying to him. And for this I praise him for everything.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Along with this year came new friendships that were most definitely made and treasured. I wouldn't change a single thing about any of them. I'm praying that I can continue to keep up with these relationships and that they grow into lifelong relationships.<br /><br />Speaking of relationships...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-49736223297899644112012-02-29T11:04:00.000-08:002012-02-29T11:04:11.395-08:00Small Update :)<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">So it's a Leap Year and I thought, why not blog on a leap day? :) and plus you all are due for an update.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Although it has only been one month since my last blog post, I can say that a lot has happened. And to be quite honest, it sure doesn't feel like it has only been a month.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizBCo4OnCR3BTLs04ls2PaTxO1qk9wwCDH1ceoiiO5aHtBE02thy26G6A4b4lrPir8PcSgprAs0N4iGxQZpxJV05SuhDYhpCpt4fvFwkBcl7ltufJU3mKZ7-f0raDPVopulMU1B0tTDlkx/s1600/Picnik+collage+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizBCo4OnCR3BTLs04ls2PaTxO1qk9wwCDH1ceoiiO5aHtBE02thy26G6A4b4lrPir8PcSgprAs0N4iGxQZpxJV05SuhDYhpCpt4fvFwkBcl7ltufJU3mKZ7-f0raDPVopulMU1B0tTDlkx/s400/Picnik+collage+2.jpg" width="153" /></a></div><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In January, I was fortunate enough to go snowboarding with one of my very good and old friend. No snow, unfortunately, so we had to settle for man made snow. It was a great way to just sit back and enjoy God's creation. Also a very nice break from everyday life. :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Then when I got back to school, this new gym opened up. It has an indoor track, an amazing rock wall, basketball courts and multiple studio classes. Opening day was kind of crazy seeing how everyone wanted in. It's amazing and I utilize it almost every day! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Until school really started up, then I had to exercise discipline. I had to purposefully restrain myself from going to the gym to study... anatomy... this class is challenging and yet due to the oh so very fair school grading system, I get 1 unit for this course. How nice! I get to work my tail off only to receive 1 unit... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">But to buffer this anxiety induced by anatomy, it's time for auditions for my acappella group :) We have seen so many talented individuals this semester and hope to grow as a group to be bigger and better than the groups before - to constantly be growing and striving to be better. I'm excited to see of what this new group is capable.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Amidst everyday life, I've managed to squeeze in a couple of new friends ;) I'm excited to see God working in both my and their lives! Soli Deo Gloria!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Acts 20:24</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>"But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God."</i></span>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-58574369906683548242012-01-28T09:56:00.001-08:002012-02-01T10:27:43.092-08:00A Continuous Service<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I know that despite my own condition, whatever present or future ailment, joy or tribulation, I will continuously serve the Lord. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It's so easy to praise the Lord when things are going well and your way. However, it's not so easy to praise the Lord when things aren't so great and, well, not going your way.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">For the past month or so, I struggled with this very thing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I struggled a lot with "Head Knowledge" and "Application."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I knew that God is in control and that no matter what happens, he would still be glorified, but I struggled to live it out. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">After exhausting myself from worrying so often about the little things that I had absolutely no control over, God gave me a reminder. When things are within or out of our reach, we should still give it up to God: <i>Head Knowledge</i>. But did I? <i>Application</i>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The Lord had changed my heart. He gave me a sense of peace in knowing that no matter where I go and no matter what I do, I would still be serving Him. Serving him in the classroom, at work, at church, etc. Aside from my service to God being continuous, the Lord still remains faithful to those who love him.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Lamentations 3:22-24</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end' they are new every morning' great is your faithfulness. "The Lord is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in him."</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">So, 5 class crashes later, and adding several unnecessary classes, I have ALL my classes that I need. Praise the Lord! And to my pleasant surprise, I'm enjoying every single one of them. I have a genuine interest, so it's awesome! :)<br />
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I'm currently taking ASL 4, Anatomy and Anatomy Lab, Educational Psychology, and Intro to Jazz. So excited and still as busy as ever! These classes are definitely going to be a challenge, but it's a challenge I don't mind. They're class I need and they're practical for life.<br />
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Thank you so much for all your prayers, love and support! It means the world to me.</span>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-34404457883165401612011-12-28T23:06:00.000-08:002011-12-29T00:29:54.382-08:00December: God of God<div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Merry Christmas!</span></span><br />
<div class="p1"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">What is the first thought that pops into your head when that phrase is spoken? Could it be shopping, presents, Christmas trees, lights? Or could it be family, food, football, basketball? </span></div><div class="p1"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">There's nothing wrong with any of theses, but what we often forget is why we, as christians, celebrate Christmas. </span></div><div class="p2"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="p3"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This month, I chose Enfield's God of God. This song embodies not only our Savior's birth, but tells the story from the prophet Isaiah, leads to His death on the cross: the reason why Christ was born, and his resurrection. </span></div><div class="p2"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="p4"><span class="s1"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/god-of-god/id483698219">God of God by John Julian (Chorus by Enfield)</a></span></span></div><div class="p2"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="p1"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Deep in the prophets’ sacred page,<span class="s2"><br />
</span>Grand in the poets’ winged word,<span class="s2"><br />
</span>Slowly in type, from age to age,<span class="s2"><br />
</span>Nations beheld their coming Lord;<span class="s2"><br />
</span>Till through the deep Judean night<span class="s2"><br />
</span>Rang out the song, Good will to men!<span class="s2"><br />
</span>Hymned by the first born sons of light,<span class="s2"><br />
</span>Re-echoed now, Good will! Amen.<span class="s2"><br />
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</span><b>Born to reign in us forever,</b><span class="s2"><b><br />
</b></span><b>Born a child and yet a king</b><span class="s2"><b><br />
</b></span><b>Born His people to deliver</b><span class="s2"><b><br />
</b></span><b>Let us all in anthem sing,</b><span class="s2"><b><br />
</b></span><b>"Hallelujah, the Messiah has come!"</b><span class="s2"><br />
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</span>That life of truth, those deeds of love,<span class="s2"><br />
</span>That death of pain ’mid hate and scorn,<span class="s2"><br />
</span>These all are past, and now above<span class="s2"><br />
</span>He reigns our King, once crowned with thorn.<span class="s2"><br />
</span>To Him who sits upon the throne,<span class="s2"><br />
</span>The Lamb once slain for sinful men,<span class="s2"><br />
</span>Be honor, might, all by Him won,<span class="s2"><br />
</span>Glory and praise! Amen! Amen!<span class="s2"><br />
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</span>O God of God! O Light of Light!<span class="s2"><br />
</span>Thou Prince of Peace, Thou King of kings,<span class="s2"><br />
</span>To Thee, where angels know no night,<span class="s2"><br />
</span>The song of praise forever rings!</span></div><div class="p2"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div><div class="p1"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Christ was born. Christ was born so that he could deliver a sinful race: to die for a filthy people and make them right with God. Since God is a holy God, He and sin are separate. They cannot be mixed. And since God is a just God, sin must also be punished. Apart from God, we are sinful men and we are condemned and His wrath is all we deserve, "but God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ - by grace you have been saved-" (Ephesians 2:5-6). </span></div><div class="p2"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="p1"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This is why we celebrate Christmas :)</span></div><div class="p2"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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</div>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-26894735387818063702011-12-20T23:11:00.000-08:002017-03-31T12:04:22.223-07:00Chaos: Temporarily Closed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Praise the Lord that this semester is over!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This semester has been one of the craziest I've been through. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I can't thank the Lord enough for sustaining me through this chaotic semester. He has really taught me to trust in Him to provide for my needs. My studies were taking a toll on me and I really wanted to just stop. Stress is no fun. My nose was literally in a book everywhere I went (or in my laptop writing research papers). The last three weeks were the most chaotic. An online class that I had neglected due to another online class has finally caught up to me. Professors in all classes were assigning last minute projects. So in total, I had three weeks to complete 10 exams, write 6 papers, 3 presentations and study for 5 finals. Praise the Lord for giving me the strength and endurance to finish strong. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A trial that I went through in the last couple weeks and still am going through is getting my classes for the following semester. It's been crazy. Not only has tuition gone up nine percent, but we have been limited to 15 units maximum. Along side this cap, we also have fewer classes with fewer seats. I felt threatened. I had a really late registration date and I couldn't do anything about getting my much needed seat in my much needed classes. I sat back and watched my classes fill up. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Prior to my registration date, I have sent all my possible future professors multiple emails, letting them know about my unfortunate position. There were so many hoops I had to jump through. Trusting the Lord was a difficult thing to do. It was all there: I knew I had to trust in the Lord to provide, but applying it was a whole other issue. I know that no matter where God puts me, He'll be glorified best. I realized that this was super similar to my housing situation last August. The Lord is good and He'll provide for his children. May I continue to praise Him despite my own circumstance.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">James 1: 2-4</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Throughout it all, the Lord has provided me with encouragement and much support from the lovely people in my lives. I thank you all so much for your prayers, love, and keeping me focused on Christ. It means the world to me. I can't thank you enough. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Aside from this hot mess... a lot of fun happened too.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 10:31</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Amen.</span></div>
HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-21471717713647432372011-11-30T23:39:00.000-08:002011-12-01T02:44:45.715-08:00November: Come, Thou Fount<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Oh my, it's already the end of November. :( Everything has been so overwhelmingly busy that this month's song is barely making the deadline. I've got approximately two weeks of school left and a butt-ton of projects, papers, exams and other miscellaneous things to take care of. My prayer this whole month was to continually praise the Lord despite my own circumstance and it was most definitely a challenge. However one way I kept Christ as the center of my focus despite the chaos around me was to preach and review the gospel daily.</span><br />
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</div><div style="background: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This month's song is:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7SD6n3NrIsk"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #93c47d;">Come, Thou Fount sung by Page CXVI</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: none;"><br />
</div><div style="background: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Come, Thou Fount of every blessing,<br />
Tune my heart to sing Thy grace;<br />
Streams of mercy, never ceasing,<br />
Call for songs of loudest praise.<br />
Teach me some melodious sonnet,<br />
Sung by flaming tongues above.<br />
Praise the mount! I’m fixed upon it,<br />
Mount of Thy redeeming love.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: none;"><br />
</div><div style="background: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Here I raise my Ebenezer;<br />
Hither by Thy help I come;<br />
And I hope, by Thy good pleasure,<br />
Safely to arrive at home.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Jesus sought me when a stranger,<br />
Wandering from the fold of God;<br />
He, to rescue me from danger,<br />
Interposed His precious blood<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: none;"><br />
</div><div style="background: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">O to grace how great a debtor<br />
Daily I’m constrained to be!<br />
Let Thy goodness, like a fetter,<br />
Bind my wandering heart to Thee.<br />
Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it,<br />
Prone to leave the God I love;<br />
Here’s my heart, O take and seal it,<br />
Seal it for Thy courts above.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: none;"><br />
</div><div style="background: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I am bound for the kingdom,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Won't you come with me?<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Hallelujah, we sing.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: none;"><br />
</div><div style="background: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">O that day when freed from sinning,<br />
I shall see Thy lovely face;<br />
Clothed then in blood washed linen<br />
How I’ll sing Thy sovereign grace;<br />
Come, my Lord, no longer tarry,<br />
Take my ransomed soul away;<br />
Send thine angels now to carry<br />
Me to realms of endless day.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: none;"><br />
</div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: none; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Unfortunately, the version of this song that I've selected doesn't include the last verse, but I decided to still include it lyrically because it is encouraging to see our end goal after our life has finished and that end goal is Christ. Oh, that day when freed from sinning - Christ will be ours. We can have perfect and holy communion with him when we're in heaven. I can't wait until that day, but until that day comes, may I continually live a life that is both honoring and pleasing to him. Oh, those good ol' gospel centered hymns. How true they ring.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: none; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><br />
</div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: none; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">God has truly been gracious to me throughout this semester and he continues to bestow his grace and mercy on me. Praise the Lord for saving me and making me his own. :)<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-36537878083654841052011-10-31T23:46:00.000-07:002011-10-31T23:47:41.357-07:00October: I Will Glory in My Redeemer<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Everything has been a blur. I've been overwhelmed by how much I have had to do in the last month, whether it be classes, a cappella, church, etc. I haven't had the best attitude about it. I constantly have to remind myself to study well for God's glory.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Despite all this, the other night, I had the opportunity to just sit down and talk with a friend about God. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">For months, I have been praying for opportunities to share the Gospel with those whom I love and are not saved and the other night, the Lord had granted my prayer.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">As I sat with this friend and discussed my faith, praying through the words I spoke, I was able to share the Gospel. A seed has been planted. I can only continue to witness to this friend and live a life that is glorifying to God. After all, the loudest sermon you preach is the life you live. So in light of the Gospel, I've chosen a song that reflected the Gospel.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This month's song is "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1DRBUI2T5c">I Will Glory in My Redeemer</a>" by Sovereign Grace Music<br />
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<div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I will glory in my Redeemer</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Whose priceless blood has ransomed me</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Mine was the sin that drove the bitter nails</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">And hung Him on that judgment tree</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I will glory in my Redeemer</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Who crushed the power of sin and death</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">My only Savior before the Holy Judge</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The Lamb Who is my righteousness</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The Lamb Who is my righteousness<br />
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</span></i></div><div class="p2" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i></i></span></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I will glory in my Redeemer</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">My life He bought, my love He owns</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I have no longings for another</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I’m satisfied in Him alone</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I will glory in my Redeemer</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">His faithfulness my standing place</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Though foes are mighty and rush upon me</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">My feet are firm, held by His grace</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">My feet are firm, held by His grace<br />
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</span></i></div><div class="p2" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i></i></span></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I will glory in my Redeemer</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Who carries me on eagle’s wings</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">He crowns my life with lovingkindness</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">His triumph song I’ll ever sing</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I will glory in my Redeemer</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Who waits for me at gates of gold</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">And when He calls me it will be paradise</span></i></div><div class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">His face forever to behold</span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">His face forever to behold</span></i></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;">This song is a kindly reminder of what the Gospel is and reminds us of who we live for. We do not live for ourselves, but for Christ. What a joy it is to know that we know the truth and that we live in light of it. A joy to know that we have been redeemed from our sins.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;">Pray for me. Pray for more opportunities to share the Gospel with others. Pray that I may radiate Jesus Christ from my life. Pray for my friend, that the Lord would reveal Himself to him.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;">Thank you for all your love and support.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;">1 John 1:5-9</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"></div><div class="p1"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.</span></i></div></div>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-69310686972932408022011-09-25T20:48:00.000-07:002011-09-25T21:02:55.078-07:00September: How Great Thou Art<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Here we are again. How in the world did we get to the end of the month so quickly? I'm torn between happy and scared at the same time. There's just so much to do in so little time.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">So far this month has been go, go, go non-stop. I don't think I've had a "me" day this month. I've either been doing stuff with my a cappella group or I've been doing stuff related with church and if I'm not doing either of those, I'm doing school work. As much time I think I may have on my hands, time slips through my fingers like grains of sand and before I know it, it's gone. As these deadlines approach, additional projects pop up and new deadlines are added to this crazy and out of control agenda.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Not a day passes by that I don't think about my mama. I've experienced both joy and sorrow. I miss her. I miss her hugs. Her broken english. Her laugh. Her smile. This video sums it up: </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/NrUujdIlgGk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">None the less, she is with Christ and I rejoice all the more. My heart is truly glad in what the Lord has given me. May I continue to praise and bring glory to Him, despite my own circumstance. To read the beginning of my mom's journey click <a href="http://phamhannah09.blogspot.com/2010/04/her-life-has-yet-to-begin.html">here</a>.<br />
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This month's song is How Great Thou Art. This song rings true in my heart. The version I'm going to share with you is by Ascend the Hill. You can listen to this version by clicking <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oZOq4QksoME">here</a>. The lyrics are below:<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 13.5pt;"><i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">O Lord my God,</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">When I in awesome wonder</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">Consider all the works Thy hand hath made</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">I see the stars</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">I hear the mighty thunder</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">Thy power throughout the universe displayed</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">When through the woods</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">And forest glades I wander</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">When I look down</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">From lofty mountain grandeur </span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">And hear the brook, and feel the gentle breeze</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">Then sings my soul</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">Then sings my soul</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">And when I think</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">My God, his Son not sparing</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">Sent him to die I scarce can take it in</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">That on the cross</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">My burden gladly bearing</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">He bled and died to take away my sin</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">When Christ shall come</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">With shouts of acclamation</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">And take me home, What joy shall fill my heart!</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">Then I shall bow</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">In humble adoration</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">And there proclaim, "My God, how great you are!" </span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">Then sings my soul</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">Then sings my soul</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">How great your love for us! (Then sings my soul)</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">You shed you blood for us! (Then sings my soul)</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">How great your love for us! (Then sings my soul)</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">You shed you blood for us! (Then sings my soul)</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">How great your grace for us!</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">That you gave it all for us!</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">Then sings my soul,</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">My Saviour God, to Thee,</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">How great you are! </span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">How great you are!</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">Then sings my soul, </span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">My Saviour God, to Thee, </span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: sans-serif;">How great you are!</span></i><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #eeeeee; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: black; font-family: sans-serif;"><br />
</span></i><i><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">How great you are!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
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</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">How great he really is. Why? </span><br />
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Ephesians 2:1-10</span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><span style="color: #3e3e3e;"> </span></i><b><i><sup><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">1</span></sup></i></b><i><span style="color: #3e3e3e;"> And you were dead in the trespasses and sins </span></i><b><i><sup><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">2</span></sup></i></b><i><span style="color: #3e3e3e;"> in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work inthe sons of disobedience— </span></i><b><i><sup><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">3</span></sup></i></b><i><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">among whom we all once lived inthe passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body</span></i><b><i><sup><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">[<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+2&version=ESV#fen-ESV-29216a"><span style="color: #651300; text-decoration: none;">a</span></a>]</span></sup></i></b><i><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. </span></i><b><i><sup><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">4</span></sup></i></b><i><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">But</span></i><b><i><sup><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">[<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+2&version=ESV#fen-ESV-29217b"><span style="color: #651300; text-decoration: none;">b</span></a>]</span></sup></i></b><i><span style="color: #3e3e3e;"> God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, </span></i><b><i><sup><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">5</span></sup></i></b><i><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ— by grace you have been saved— </span></i><b><i><sup><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">6</span></sup></i></b><i><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">and raised us up with him andseated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, </span></i><b><i><sup><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">7</span></sup></i></b><i><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. </span></i><b><i><sup><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">8</span></sup></i></b><i><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, </span></i><b><i><sup><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">9</span></sup></i></b><i><span style="color: #3e3e3e;"> not a result of works, so that no one may boast. </span></i><b><i><sup><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">10</span></sup></i></b><i><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.</span></i></span></i><br />
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</i></span>That is why. I feel like that verse is a fair summation of the sing. Despite how quickly or frequently my life is changing, God has remained ever-present and has been the most constant thing in my life. I cannot thank Him enough for all he has done for me. I am unworthy, but I thank Him daily for his grace - that I no longer have to wallow in sin and be a slave to it - living life blindly, arrogantly, ignorantly. He saved me from my sin. I cringe to think where I would be today if it weren't for Christ because I could confidently say that I would not be here in this room typing this blog. I am his. Who am I to be his? Without Christ, I am nothing. Without Christ, my mama wouldn't be in heaven praising Him. Without Christ, life is meaningless.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Then sings my soul: how great thou art!</span></div>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-73399359749825119052011-09-04T16:06:00.000-07:002011-09-04T16:23:41.398-07:00The Struggle for Contentment<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I struggle.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I struggle daily.</span><br />
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I struggle daily with contentment.</span><br />
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"What specifically?" you might ask. I struggle to find contentment in my singleness. There are days where I feel that I am content, but then there are other days where I plunge deep down into the desires of my heart, ultimately my flesh. I'm not saying that having a desire for a husband or wife is wrong, but if it becomes of greater value than Christ, then we have a problem. I recently wrote a letter to a friend who was also struggling with her contentment and let me tell you... I was convicted through it all. The letter should've been addressed to me. The letter reads as the following:</span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Dearest Claire,</i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I am so proud of all that you’ve accomplished: your passion for Jesus and teaching the Gospel to little ones and being selfless in all that you did for others. Alongside your commitment to God, you’ve had other commitments: work being one of them. I know you’re a busy girl and ejoy being busy, but let me give you a piece of advice while you’re at college: </span><u style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Enjoy it.</u><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Although I’ve only been in college for a year, it goes by so fast. You’ll hear it from others who have graduated. You’ll have time to try everything you want to try. Don’t bite off more than you can chew. It’s okay to say no sometimes. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Wingdings;">:)</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i> Now, onto a topic I’m sooooo knowledgeable about: Dating. Okay, I may not be “experienced,” but I can confidently say that I am well equipped </i>(but not really)<i>. First of all, you’re at school for a Bachelor’s degree, not an “M.R.S. Degree.” I know we’ve had these talks here and there, but I cannot stress enough how important it is to <b>GUARD YOUR HEART <3</b>. You don’t have to be in a relationship anytime soon. You have your whole life ahead of you. Being single is just as important as being married. Both are gifts from God. You can do things for God when you’re single that you can’t do when you’re married. The same goes the other way. I’ve struggled with this </i>(and still am)<i> and have used prayer to help me. So, pray relentlessly. Pray for contentment in your singleness. Do not squander the time God has given you. Continue to live your life as <u>Romans 12</u> commands us.</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i> If there is any lust that you might have for any man, keep your heart pure by going back to scripture and the cross. Remember what Jesus has done for you: <u>“he himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness.” 1 Peter 2:24</u>. I know there will be attractive boys and men that’ll come your way and it’ll be crucial to know who the boys are and who the men are. <u>1 Timothy 3</u> gives you an outline of what your husband should be like. Also, remember that it is the man who is supposed to seek you out and pursue you. Not the other way.</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i> Before you enter into a relationship, lets examine your heart. Is your heart content with Christ? Is it completely satisfied in Him alone? Is Christ the focus of your life? I truly believe that until one is completely satisfied in Christ, then he or she can have a God-honoring relationship.</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i> I love you sooooo much. I cannot wait to see what the Lord has in store for you. Again, I am so proud of you. Cling to Christ. Seek Him. Love Him.</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i> </i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i> Love, </i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i> Hannah P.</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Every time I reread this letter, it's a slap across the face. I struggle with guarding my heart. I often let these "crushes" occupy my mind. The desires of my flesh become overwhelming and I begin to feel discontentment in my life. In times that I should be praying, I thinking about what my life could be like with this other person, hoping that my desires would become a reality. I take away from God's time and squander it on the desires of my flesh. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Thankfully, I've combatted these desires with discipleship from others and prayer, which has helped me tremendously. One of the things that was hardest for me to pray for was that if this desire wasn't of God that he would take this desire away. God has been gracious and has pointed me to his cross. He has reminded me that he is sufficient. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I know that if it be God's will for me to get married, he will provide a husband for me. A husband that meets all my needs and more. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">A few helpful videos:</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This video with Matt Chandler is a very good reminder and also helpful:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/0zIhLMmqmZI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Basically, he sums up everything that I've typed up in this blog.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Hluo9nyHBSs?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">"Should Women Pursue Men?"</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Remember God's love. His love in that he sent his only Son to die on a cross for our sins. To suffer in our place. To feel the wrath that we so very much deserve. Christ has paid for my soul. I need to cling to my salvation, trust in Him completely and continue to preach the gospel to myself and look to the cross daily. This is the reality.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I hope this blog has been helpful to you. Look to Christ, always.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I know I use this Bible verse a lot, but it holds a lot of meaning.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">2 Corinthians 12:9-10</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Currently listening to <a href="http://new.music.yahoo.com/paul-stephens/tracks/rock-of-salvation--207577857">"Rock of Salvation" by Paul Stephens</a></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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</div>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-10288227084283692212011-08-31T23:59:00.000-07:002011-09-01T00:21:13.995-07:00August: There is a Fountain<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;">I cannot fully express my gratitude for what Christ has done for me. He has redeemed my unworthy, wretched soul and has called me his own. He chose me (Romans 9), someone who beforehand despised and hated him and was completely deserving of his eternal, just and righteous wrath(Romans 3). </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;">I wrote a letter to a friend, who is beginning college, and it was about guarding your heart. As of recent I've been struggling with this. How ironic, right? I'll blog about this later. Anyways, I told her that if <i>ever</i> she were to struggle with this, to pray earnestly and look to the cross. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;">I feel that this song is a great reminder of what Christ has done for us. (Click <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-yHiPTk7pc">HERE</a> to listen to the song)</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><u>There is a Fountain</u></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i>There is a fountain filled with blood</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i>drawn from Emmanuel's veins;</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i>and sinners plunge beneath that flood</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i>lose all their guilty stains.</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i> </i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i>Dear dying Lamb, thy precious blood</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i>shall never lose its power</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i>till all the ransom church of god</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i>be saved, to sin no more.</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i> </i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i>When this poor lisping, stammering tongue</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i>lies silent in the grave,</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i>then in a nobler, sweeter song,</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i>I'll sing thy power to save.</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i> </i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;">This is the gospel:</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;">Ephesians 2:1-5</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i>And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience - among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. <b>But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ - by grace you have been saved...</b></i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i><b> </b></i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;">1 Peter 3:18</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i>For Christ also suffered once for sin, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but being made alive in the spirit...</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i> </i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;">Romans 12:12</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i>Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i> </i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;">Be encouraged, live out for Christ. What more could we possibly want? What precious gift could possibly outweigh the richness of God's mercy and grace? Apart from Christ is death and damnation, but in Christ, we are alive. He is everything or he is nothing.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><i><br />
</i></span></span></div>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-34175678654214549692011-08-23T10:11:00.000-07:002017-03-31T12:08:41.810-07:00And So It Begins... Again<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">After a five and a half hours of singing at the top of her lungs, Hannah arrived at a familiar destination. As she slung her backpack over her should, she began to approach the house. Previously receiving a text about how to get into the house, she checks under the doormat to see if there really was a key waiting for her. Sure enough, it was. "And so it begins," she said.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Well, I'm back at school sure enough and I definitely can't say that it was easy leaving home. In fact, I believe it was harder. I have mentioned to my friends already that whenever I thought about leaving for school, I had already become homesick. Just so much has gone on this past summer and I feel like there wasn't enough of it. I feel as if summer was a rug beneath my feet that was yanked out from underneath me. Kind of crazy. Alas, I need education to get a job and pay for the rest of my life the countless bills I'll be receiving. Unless... you know... there's some kind soul out there... that would.. you know... pay for the rest of my life. :) please and thank you.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Anyway, with this new school year starting, I've got a couple goals in mind that I hope you, the readers, would keep me accountable. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>1. I hope to keep up a regular schedule to read my Bible.</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This is such a struggle for me. I find that I spend a ridiculous amount of time on social media websites as opposed to read the Bible, and it shouldn't be that way. Pray for me that I can be immersed in God's word daily.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>2. To stay disciplined in my studies.</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This semester, I'm taking two online classes and we all know that there are so many distractions on the computer and what not, especially on the internet. Classes in general this semester are going to be interesting. Pray for me that I can have self control and remain on the task that is given to me. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>3. To stay focused on Christ.</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Amidst all this education, extra-curriculars come into play and once I get overwhelmed the whole, "I have to fix this" mentality takes over me. Also, there are so many distractions all around me that take my gaze off Christ. Thankfully, God has put wonderful people in my life to keep me accountable and remind me of why I really live, and who I live for. Pray for me that I live for Christ fervently every second I have.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>4. Gospel Opportunities.</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Pray that these opportunities would be presented to me, that I would take advantage of them and not take them lightly. Pray that I would be strong in my faith and not in anyway timid. Pray that the Lord would give me wisdom and discernment in my words when I share the Gospel.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Thank you for all your love and support and just seeing me through my years of college, and my life in general. :) Love you all so so much.</span></div>
HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-66916933111737548162011-08-18T20:51:00.000-07:002011-08-19T10:44:36.360-07:00Refreshed and Revived<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAng17n4a6xNnfkohYks1ib48MyoMMwwJBhtv9QIo4gQSH7E0sB63NfUd8eTRH1PgLsbjpATKbtB5Spb_TWiQuKZK1PClmayvJjaa0bseTRuvFffd8aj2JiWdsAKEKRyMkjyNPGJBXC599/s1600/Photo+on+2011-04-04+at+13.19+%25232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAng17n4a6xNnfkohYks1ib48MyoMMwwJBhtv9QIo4gQSH7E0sB63NfUd8eTRH1PgLsbjpATKbtB5Spb_TWiQuKZK1PClmayvJjaa0bseTRuvFffd8aj2JiWdsAKEKRyMkjyNPGJBXC599/s200/Photo+on+2011-04-04+at+13.19+%25232.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">so i've been working on this huge project of mine all summer long. in fact, it started during spring break when i decided to paint my room and redecorate it. there's so many fun ideas running through my head, but i can't seem to come up with the funds to make it happen. however, there are ways around it. luckily for me, i took a ceramics class and i made some pretty fun stuff for my now room decor. beforehand, i honestly didn't know what to do with it all, but with a few friends who took a liking to my work, they found a home. yes, there are things that i would like to have, but can't afford. when life gives you melons, you may have dyslexia, however when life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. so...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> want a new bookshelf?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7AjPDk9_pdrmY5pLTkGrUZ66Tc_EARzsGwZzTj7NXhyf9hhiNnGseGtMrYLu1sa_lXGTaB9Cr9vk4m3mkIjEwwiJY9-VPUebMFuywKYMfQutDLYqzM0oaQyLtvWk7cm1Q4SME9mk-2BxC/s1600/_MG_2676.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7AjPDk9_pdrmY5pLTkGrUZ66Tc_EARzsGwZzTj7NXhyf9hhiNnGseGtMrYLu1sa_lXGTaB9Cr9vk4m3mkIjEwwiJY9-VPUebMFuywKYMfQutDLYqzM0oaQyLtvWk7cm1Q4SME9mk-2BxC/s320/_MG_2676.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">click the photo for a more detailed picture</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">this contraption cost me $11.00 with each wine crate being $3.50 each.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">the most expensive thing on this shelf, unfortunately, cost more than the bookshelf, which is the dried flowers in the mason jar. that project ended up being about $13.00.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhq4-TLfXTD_oaxjRa-ikNHs9WbiikuH6tbJmxihj0l9B1Bkaaf3k9zMbyz_-9KOYJgcXDC4UEcH5xbAu2rFmhzicyFb9XuglMSoGGu6w6CHrs5dcXQFaR2h1tT8yoA0hMlVrh-ez_gmz2/s1600/_MG_2680.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhq4-TLfXTD_oaxjRa-ikNHs9WbiikuH6tbJmxihj0l9B1Bkaaf3k9zMbyz_-9KOYJgcXDC4UEcH5xbAu2rFmhzicyFb9XuglMSoGGu6w6CHrs5dcXQFaR2h1tT8yoA0hMlVrh-ez_gmz2/s320/_MG_2680.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">click the photo for a more detailed picture</span></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">i also purchased these wooden shelves that fit in the corners of your walls. </span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEPCn3RcpBsm1BQfQm7lAZWlzvyIZftPbcMwT4BtW5eMuwigDIUEvcLHKv2IS9DlpL6AjwT-VLESLVbArELizfoo-658PSVNji9DGZf929P37liAJN6wf4eterUumL1zndtvsYXtMjUIXy/s320/_MG_2682.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="213" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">click the photo for a more detailed picture</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEPCn3RcpBsm1BQfQm7lAZWlzvyIZftPbcMwT4BtW5eMuwigDIUEvcLHKv2IS9DlpL6AjwT-VLESLVbArELizfoo-658PSVNji9DGZf929P37liAJN6wf4eterUumL1zndtvsYXtMjUIXy/s1600/_MG_2682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEPCn3RcpBsm1BQfQm7lAZWlzvyIZftPbcMwT4BtW5eMuwigDIUEvcLHKv2IS9DlpL6AjwT-VLESLVbArELizfoo-658PSVNji9DGZf929P37liAJN6wf4eterUumL1zndtvsYXtMjUIXy/s1600/_MG_2682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">installing these shelves was not fun. though, i must say i am very happy with the end result. ironically, these corner shelves ended up costing more than my bookshelf. i believe $29 total, give or take (i never said that this was a money saving project).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvxo38ArPiJiHTYTfKFByD4W2X8R_WUlGchFCcspOt3NBKicZRdZfXSTB5jpVjGzJ5R_2F4p0HAzoVIxQXl0J78MEHTeYJWXekd-d6EqiUMcpks16zmGQ3JnWTqv7GCVfgJfkmvxvVBcT4/s1600/bookself.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvxo38ArPiJiHTYTfKFByD4W2X8R_WUlGchFCcspOt3NBKicZRdZfXSTB5jpVjGzJ5R_2F4p0HAzoVIxQXl0J78MEHTeYJWXekd-d6EqiUMcpks16zmGQ3JnWTqv7GCVfgJfkmvxvVBcT4/s640/bookself.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">click the photo for a more detailed picture</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">so now this oh-so-very bland corner is now looking like the best part of my room and i'm very proud of it. but what about my bland walls? i've already started on it and that's another blog post i suppose seeing that it's not complete. however, i suppose a sneak peek never hurt anyone right?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">click the photo for a more detailed picture</span></td></tr>
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">i guess this'll have to be a project for the next summer... it's a shame that i've done all this work only to leave for college. oh college... </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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</span>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-76423212596571283082011-07-30T09:28:00.000-07:002011-07-30T13:21:23.303-07:00July: Be Thou My Vision<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It's that time of the month already? I guess I should probably blog, huh? Yes. Okay.</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">So, my family and I went to Chicago for my dearest cousin's wedding. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghMnwnbPnHwc4q0f_RX37h3_58NrmnQ5d9XggO9cWDnTrIaykEusJqH9mU66oVD1UuGzV-T7CpbX6GGKluN7Q1inuQu6sA_-zFhcFNvI9pJjmeK7odpypQNcoxkF2qgoWa6PBs_bz703ve/s1600/chicago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghMnwnbPnHwc4q0f_RX37h3_58NrmnQ5d9XggO9cWDnTrIaykEusJqH9mU66oVD1UuGzV-T7CpbX6GGKluN7Q1inuQu6sA_-zFhcFNvI9pJjmeK7odpypQNcoxkF2qgoWa6PBs_bz703ve/s320/chicago.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> We, as a family have walked over 30 miles all over downtown Chicago due to lack of knowledge of how to use the public transportation system... more adventures there... getting lost on a bus was one of them.<br />
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We did all the touristy things... What can I say? We're asian... <br />
One of which was that we went to Millenium Park.<br />
Could someone please hand me a hose of windex and a lifetime supply of towels?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSjVSvxGN6ooloSfZ1zYtFGsRKHsa-gKHVAt9fV-J1klwEzyoPof33D0ZwTxEXjODymylDdLjMNsfnarU2c03a0xKZKKxXKPE6I5yhttAfoYpCCs2juceXSbMX_R_qQHuZeQA_drDxGYSe/s1600/_MG_1835.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSjVSvxGN6ooloSfZ1zYtFGsRKHsa-gKHVAt9fV-J1klwEzyoPof33D0ZwTxEXjODymylDdLjMNsfnarU2c03a0xKZKKxXKPE6I5yhttAfoYpCCs2juceXSbMX_R_qQHuZeQA_drDxGYSe/s320/_MG_1835.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It was thee cutest little wedding ever! It was no more than 200 people. Thank the Lord that the Chicago humidity didn't get to us. </span><br />
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</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid78P0ekv7GcqcRqY4ffLuJYskRlpD3oDDAb8HM7QSaG-CW_T5njJ6FUoLTASSxb-ZP0l_Ce0VgopsOuQfyorNc1X73A7guks7ZotXTQ4QAtlljlLnSN6goSlzQQ0jW4UY7XqppBf51GSb/s1600/_MG_2188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid78P0ekv7GcqcRqY4ffLuJYskRlpD3oDDAb8HM7QSaG-CW_T5njJ6FUoLTASSxb-ZP0l_Ce0VgopsOuQfyorNc1X73A7guks7ZotXTQ4QAtlljlLnSN6goSlzQQ0jW4UY7XqppBf51GSb/s320/_MG_2188.jpg" width="213" /></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAgiN5QtOYHfaMGm3PXBxkj0juK5Vlm2hlSadhizh2ktFVJZTMQL0aae2w1JYPsP_QblxZ1lZ_D028aUiwcxJ0RTJ7fALuE5uVlGMZnddE1sEyTweTWu0-DsQ3e4Zm5GcqPdiAjJp7_AvS/s1600/_MG_2223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAgiN5QtOYHfaMGm3PXBxkj0juK5Vlm2hlSadhizh2ktFVJZTMQL0aae2w1JYPsP_QblxZ1lZ_D028aUiwcxJ0RTJ7fALuE5uVlGMZnddE1sEyTweTWu0-DsQ3e4Zm5GcqPdiAjJp7_AvS/s320/_MG_2223.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">But best of all, it was sort of like a mini family reunion :) I haven't seen my cousin since I was 4 or 5 and now she's married to one of the most charming young men I've ever met. I'll be praying for them on a daily basis. Congrats Chad and Alicia :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Anyway, through all this, I've thought about what song I would like to walk down the aisle to, if the Lord has it in his will for me to get married, and I've got just the song.</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Be Thou My Vision (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_4FGfh80Jk">listen here</a>)</span></div><br />
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<center><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart;</i></span></div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></i></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Thou my best Thought, by day or by night,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></i></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.</span></i></div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word;</i></span></div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord;</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></i></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Thou my great Father, I Thy true son;</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></i></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.</span></i></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise,</i></span></div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Thou mine Inheritance, now and always:</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></i></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></i></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">High King of Heaven, my Treasure Thou art.</span></i></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>High King of Heaven, my victory won,</i></span></div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">May I reach Heaven’s joys, O bright Heaven’s Sun!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></i></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></i></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all.</span></i></div></div></div></center><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Although, according to man, this day should be about the bride and the groom coming together as one, the real significance of marriage is that it is the symbolic representation of Jesus Christ and his church coming together. Marriage is not solely about two people making a covenant to stay with each other for better or for worse, but to put God on display for all the world to see. To live as one unit, striving to glorify our Creator and our Savior. To be a living testament of the gospel. That is why I think this song is appropriate for when I do walk down the aisle. I guess you can kind of say that it's setting the tone for the new chapter: to keep Christ the center of our lives, first and foremost. For it is without Jesus' grace that we fail to do things, however hard we try.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">My prayer is this: that I may continue to live with Christ as the center of my life, single or married. May I continue to live a life that is glorifying to Him.</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Chad and Alicia, I'm going to pray that this be your focus throughout your marriage. :)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I love you, both.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgobfxmzw0wW9uqSG0z-EMu-EEgZFBUy2aXFi_j9z_qgP1syXhdt9YPNxTt2Ev3xznjAAwG1yDmphJH5K_OdaeOjPk35d2RGBtPtJM1rLLRvEbmXiqRMSaTswAUZ_UuF3VA62Clbar2a2T2/s1600/_MG_2245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgobfxmzw0wW9uqSG0z-EMu-EEgZFBUy2aXFi_j9z_qgP1syXhdt9YPNxTt2Ev3xznjAAwG1yDmphJH5K_OdaeOjPk35d2RGBtPtJM1rLLRvEbmXiqRMSaTswAUZ_UuF3VA62Clbar2a2T2/s320/_MG_2245.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 10:31 </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #001320; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-83537938622575895232011-06-30T20:23:00.001-07:002011-07-05T02:31:52.439-07:00June: The Glory of the Cross<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://b.vimeocdn.com/ps/370/370320_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://b.vimeocdn.com/ps/370/370320_300.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 1.2em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.6em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It's that time again, yessirree. Segway: before I tell you about the song of the month, I just thought I'd pop it in there to say that I am sad I did not make Resolved 2011 this year :(. I heard it was remarkable and the preaching was, as always, convicting. Thank you, Resolved 2011 for Live streaming the conference. You've made me a happy girl. If you couldn't make it to the conference like myself, there are recordings of the sessions provided (<a href="http://www.resolved.org/media/">here</a>). Also if you're not sure what this conference is about or how it's run, click (<a href="http://vimeo.com/iamresolved">here</a>) and see what goes on throughout Resolved.<br />
Nevertheless, where ever I am and whatever the time is, I should be proclaiming what Christ has done for me and how because of what he's done, I am forever changed. It's time for me to reveal the song of the month. What song is better than one that proclaims the glory of the cross? </span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 1.2em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.6em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The Glory of the Cross (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLb-4kwpcDI">Listen Here</a>)</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 1.2em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.6em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">What wisdom once devised the plan<br />
Where all our sin and pride<br />
Was placed upon the perfect Lamb<br />
Who suffered, bled, and died?<br />
The wisdom of a Sovereign God<br />
Whose greatness will be shown<br />
When those who crucified Your Son<br />
Rejoice around Your throne</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 1.2em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.6em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">And, oh, the glory of the cross<br />
That You would send Your Son for us<br />
I gladly count my life as loss<br />
That I might come to know<br />
The glory of, the glory of the cross</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 1.2em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.6em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">What righteousness was there revealed<br />
That sets the guilty free<br />
That justifies ungodly men<br />
And calls the filthy clean?<br />
A righteousness that proved to all<br />
Your justice has been met<br />
And holy wrath is satisfied<br />
Through one atoning death</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 1.2em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.6em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">What mercy now has been proclaimed<br />
For those who would believe<br />
A love incomprehensible<br />
Our minds could not conceive?<br />
A mercy that forgives my sin<br />
Then makes me like Your Son<br />
And now I’m loved forevermore<br />
Because of what You’ve done<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">© 2000 Sovereign Grace Praise (BMI).</span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 1.2em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.6em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I absolutely adore this song and hold it dear to my heart because every word of it is true. The cross does not only represent the place where Christ has died, but so much more. It is the symbol of what Christ has done for us. He has justified and made clean a filthy wretch like me and has called me his own. "A love incomprehensible" is correct. In our humanistic minds, we cannot fully understand the cross. We cannot graduate from the gospel.The gospel is "it." The core essence of the Christian faith. This song accurately portrays what the gospel is. </span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 1.2em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.6em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Galatians 2:20<br />
<i>I have been<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 0.5em; vertical-align: text-top;" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-29085A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup></span> crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 0.5em; vertical-align: text-top;" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-29085B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></sup></span> in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God,<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 0.5em; vertical-align: text-top;" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-29085C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></sup></span> who loved me and<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 0.5em; vertical-align: text-top;" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-29085D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></sup></span> gave himself for me.</i></span></div>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-69382528307613732462011-05-23T14:50:00.000-07:002011-05-23T14:55:57.283-07:00May: Marvelous Grace<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I am grateful for the people that the Lord has put in my life, especially those from church. They have been instrumental in keeping me accountable and reminding me of the undeserving grace that we receive on a daily basis. I take notice that whenever we hang out with each other, we always end up talk about God and what he's done in our lives and how his grace is made evident in every aspect of our lives, no matter where the conversation was going in the first place. How good is it that we know the truth and because of it, we can rejoice in our Sovereign Creator?</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">A song that has weighed heavy upon my heart this month, in a good way, is "Marvelous Grace." </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Marvelous grace of our loving Lord, </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt! </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Yonder on Calvary’s mount outpoured, </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>There where the blood of the Lamb was spilled. </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Grace, grace, God’s grace, </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Grace that will pardon and cleanse within; </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Grace, grace, God’s grace, </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Grace that is greater than all our sin. </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Sin and despair, like the sea waves cold, </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Threaten the soul with infinite loss; </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Grace that is greater, yes, grace untold, </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Points to the refuge, the mighty cross. </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Dark is the stain that we cannot hide. </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>What can we do to wash it away? </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Look! There is flowing a crimson tide, </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Brighter than snow you may be today. </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace, </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Freely bestowed on all who believe! </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>You that are longing to see His face, </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Will you this moment His grace receive?</i> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">My brother often jokes and makes up another version which is the exact opposite from what this song declares: it is only by God's grace that you have been saved.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">His version is the following:</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>"Works, works, man's works. Works that will burden and damn within! Works, works, man's works. Works: the summation of all our sin!"</i></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">As hilarious as this may be, it's so true. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">My heart rejoices at the knowledge of a God who chose me and forgave me although I am undeserving, rebellious, prideful and full of hate (Romans 1:29-30, 3:9-20). Since I know the truth, "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me" (Galatians 2:20). </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="font-family: Times; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Ephesians 2:8-9</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.</i></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">To my friends, thank you so much for all that you have done for me. I am truly grateful.</span></div></div>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-41690531385438805492011-04-25T00:50:00.001-07:002011-05-02T18:20:41.068-07:00April: Still, My Soul Be Still<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-left: 3px; margin-right: 3px; margin-top: 3px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">As of late, I've noticed how much everything around me is constantly changing. This past year has been such a change. New school, new life, new experiences, new everything. I sometimes just wish that things would remain constant. I just wanted something in this world to remain constant, but as 1 Peter 1:24-25 says, "<i>...All flesh is like grass and all its glory like the flower of grass. The grass withers, and the flower falls, but the world of the Lord remains forever. A song that has encouraged me lately is </i></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: normal;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YsXMiysZfNQ">Keith & Kristyn Getty's <i>Still, My Soul be Still.</i></a></span></i><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Still my soul be still, and do not fear though winds of change may rage tomorrow.</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>God is at your side, no longer dread the fires of unexpected sorrow.</i></span></div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-left: 3px; margin-right: 3px; margin-top: 3px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><strong>Chorus:</strong></i></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>God You are my God, and I will trust in You and not be shaken.</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><i>Lord of peace renew a steadfast spirit within me to rest in You alone.</i></span></i></span></div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-left: 3px; margin-right: 3px; margin-top: 3px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Still my soul be still, do not be moved by lesser lights and fleeting shadows.</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Hold onto His ways with shield of faith against temptations flaming arrows.</i></span></div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-left: 3px; margin-right: 3px; margin-top: 3px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Still my soul be still, do not forsake the Truth you learned in the beginning.</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Wait upon the Lord and hope will rise as stars appear when day is dimming.</i></span></div><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The last verse is my absolute favorite. Although things of this world are constantly changing, one thing that I know remains the same is Christ.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Isaiah 40:28-31</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #001320; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><span class="line" style="text-indent: 0px;">Have you not known? Have you not heard?</span><br />
<span class="line" style="text-indent: 0px;">The <span class="divine-name" style="color: #001320; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none; text-transform: uppercase;">LORD</span> is the everlasting God,</span><br />
<span class="ln-indent" style="margin-left: 35px;">the Creator of the ends of the earth.</span><br />
<span class="line" style="text-indent: 0px;">He does not faint or grow weary;</span><br />
<span class="ln-indent" style="margin-left: 35px;">his understanding is unsearchable.</span></i></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-left: 3px; margin-right: 3px; margin-top: 3px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #001320; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><span class="ln-indent" style="margin-left: 35px;"></span> <span class="line" style="text-indent: 0px;">He gives power to the faint,</span><br />
<span class="ln-indent" style="margin-left: 35px;">and to him who has no might he increases strength.</span> </i></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-left: 3px; margin-right: 3px; margin-top: 3px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #001320; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><span class="line" style="text-indent: 0px;">Even youths shall faint and be weary,</span><br />
<span class="ln-indent" style="margin-left: 35px;">and young men shall fall exhausted;</span><br />
<span class="line" style="text-indent: 0px;">but they who wait for the <span class="divine-name" style="color: #001320; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none; text-transform: uppercase;">LORD</span> shall renew their strength;</span><br />
<span class="ln-indent" style="margin-left: 35px;">they shall mount up with wings like eagles;</span><br />
<span class="line" style="text-indent: 0px;">they shall run and not be weary;</span></i></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #001320; line-height: 21px;">they shall walk and not faint.</span> </i></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">And for this... I am eternally grateful.</span></div>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-78166745771710934662011-04-18T18:20:00.000-07:002017-03-31T12:05:15.466-07:00So, It's Been One Year...<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A lot has happened in the past year:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I have...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">...graduated high school...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">...worked at my first job...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">...gone to college...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">...paid my own rent...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">...joined a great church...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">...joined a great bible study...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">...joined an amazing a cappella group...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">...made awesome new friends...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">...been a year without a mother...</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Without a doubt things have been different and harder in some ways. I do miss her hugs, her laughs and her fobbish english. Yet, I am glad. She's with Jesus who can provide more for her than I can. She's with her everything. And for this I'm glad. (To read more about my mom's story, <a href="http://phamhannah09.blogspot.com/2010/04/her-life-has-yet-to-begin.html">click here</a>.) I await the day where I see her again in heaven with Christ in our glorified bodies.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As mentioned before there have been a lot of changes, and most the most important my love for God has grown tremendously. I've learned to love and trust Him more and praise Him despite my condition. I've learned to be satisfied in Him alone.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">Behold Him there the risen Lamb,<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; line-height: normal;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">My perfect spotless righteousness,</span></i></span></span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">The great unchangeable I AM,</span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">The King of glory and of grace,<br />
One in Himself I cannot die.<br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;">My soul is purchased by His blood,<br />
My life is hid with Christ on high,<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; line-height: normal;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;">With Christ my Savior and my God!</span></span></i></span></span></span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">-</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; line-height: 14px;">Before the Throne of God Above, V.4</span>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-40176230095668501972011-04-13T18:43:00.000-07:002011-04-13T18:43:56.574-07:00Thankfulness and Gratefulness<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I know this isn't a song of the month. That has yet to come, however since I've yet to do an update of how things have been, I think now is the appropriate time. As I sit outside enjoying the weather, waiting for my next class and eating my lunch, I got to thinking about what God has done in my life so far. As a result of this, I am made aware of how thankful and grateful I should be regardless of my own condition.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Quick update:</span><br />
<a href="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/208519_179114395468962_142262859154116_394716_747062_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/208519_179114395468962_142262859154116_394716_747062_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">School has been doing quite well. It has been crazy in the last couple months as my a cappella group prepared for competition. We found ourselves rehearsing at ridiculous times (5pm-9pm Sunday, 10pm-1230am Monday, 7pm-12am Wednesday) and whatever else. We placed 2nd at Quarter Finals and advanced into the Semi Finals where we placed 4th. To be honest, I really wanted to fly out to New York for finals, but at the same time, I'm really relieved that we didn't. If we did make it to finals, I wouldn't have been able to go home and enjoy much needed time with friends and family.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Spring Break=A-mazing.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAng17n4a6xNnfkohYks1ib48MyoMMwwJBhtv9QIo4gQSH7E0sB63NfUd8eTRH1PgLsbjpATKbtB5Spb_TWiQuKZK1PClmayvJjaa0bseTRuvFffd8aj2JiWdsAKEKRyMkjyNPGJBXC599/s1600/Photo+on+2011-04-04+at+13.19+%25232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAng17n4a6xNnfkohYks1ib48MyoMMwwJBhtv9QIo4gQSH7E0sB63NfUd8eTRH1PgLsbjpATKbtB5Spb_TWiQuKZK1PClmayvJjaa0bseTRuvFffd8aj2JiWdsAKEKRyMkjyNPGJBXC599/s200/Photo+on+2011-04-04+at+13.19+%25232.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDVH_0WxHm8m62Oc3QbjFbUJmQTqcTrS7o9VUOc4RR1amvAuYiTIZZNif98U6kOFFBR1-e4XncEFuqYLwFdFBPRM75kpc5oN65HU3mJOEKVLAZ5Op8YSzkGiFFEDRR9d9t3X1tgni5RIQ/s1600/Photo+on+2011-04-09+at+23.29+%25234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDVH_0WxHm8m62Oc3QbjFbUJmQTqcTrS7o9VUOc4RR1amvAuYiTIZZNif98U6kOFFBR1-e4XncEFuqYLwFdFBPRM75kpc5oN65HU3mJOEKVLAZ5Op8YSzkGiFFEDRR9d9t3X1tgni5RIQ/s200/Photo+on+2011-04-09+at+23.29+%25234.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I had a lot accomplished here. I got to paint my room because I was absolutely sick of the plain white pasty walls. I replaced this dull color with Behr's "Rejuvenate" Green. I also was able to put of a decent source of light up in my room. Do you see that little lamp in the corner of the room? Yes, that was my only source of light for the past seven years. My room was somewhat inspired by Florence + the Machine's music video <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2EIeUlvHAiM">"Cosmic Love"</a>. I wanted hanging lightbulbs in my room, but the were quite expensive, so I had to improvise. I also got to play around with furniture positions and what not. We also had an amazing garage sale held by <a href="http://keepupwiththejohnsons.com/">the Johnson's</a> (check out her blog). I made a lot more than I though I would've. So obviously, finding thing to sell, involves ripping one's living space apart. Although the shot of my "new room" may look organized, what you don't know is that I have a closet in the opposite corner of the room in which everything has been shoved into at the last minute due to time restrictions. Oh college, how I don't miss you.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Since I've been here in college, I've been praying for contentment, more specifically in the areas of dating/relationships and I really do believe that the Lord has granted me this. I am content with the fact that I am single and that this, at the current time, is my current ministry. Whether I am in a relationship or not, I am still to glorify God. I am satisfied in Him alone. :) As I should be. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><i>John 3:30-31</i></b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>"He must increase, but I must decrease."<sup class="footnote" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="[<a href="#fen-ESV-26140j" title="See footnote j">j</a>]"> </sup>He who comes from above is above all. He who is of the earth belongs to the earth and speaks in an earthly way. He who comes from heaven is above all</i>. </span>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-84905628869429101572011-03-28T12:41:00.000-07:002011-03-28T12:42:13.443-07:00March: Jesus, I My Cross Have Taken<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; white-space: nowrap;"></span><br />
<div class="body" style="list-style-image: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Luke 9: 23-27</span></div><div class="body" style="list-style-image: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>And he said to all, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? For whoever is ashamed of me and my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God.</i></span></div><div class="body" style="list-style-image: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="body" style="list-style-image: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px;">How I yearn this to be within every second of my life. As you see, this month's song is, "Jesus, I My Cross Have Taken." I want this song to be played at both my wedding and my funeral. I love the beautiful imagery and it truly talks about how life is going to be like following Christ. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px;"> </span></span></span></div><div class="body" style="list-style-image: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="body" style="list-style-image: none;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Jesus, I my cross have taken,</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">All to leave and follow Thee.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Destitute, despised, forsaken,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Thou from hence my all shall be.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Perish every fond ambition,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">All I’ve sought or hoped or known.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Yet how rich is my condition!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">God and heaven are still my own.</span></div></div><div class="body" style="list-style-image: none;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Let the world despise and leave me,</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">They have left my Savior, too.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Human hearts and looks deceive me;</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Thou art not, like them, untrue.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">O while Thou dost smile upon me,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">God of wisdom, love, and might,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Foes may hate and friends disown me,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Show Thy face and all is bright.</span></div></div><div class="body" style="list-style-image: none;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Go, then, earthly fame and treasure,</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Come disaster, scorn and pain</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In Thy service, pain is pleasure,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">With Thy favor, loss is gain</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I have called Thee Abba Father,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I have stayed my heart on Thee</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Storms may howl, and clouds may gather;</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">All must work for good to me.</span></div></div><div class="body" style="list-style-image: none;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Soul, then know thy full salvation</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Rise o’er sin and fear and care</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Joy to find in every station,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Something still to do or bear.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Think what Spirit dwells within thee,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Think what Father’s smiles are thine,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Think that Jesus died to win thee,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Child of heaven, canst thou repine.</span></div></div><div class="body" style="list-style-image: none;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Haste thee on from grace to glory,</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Armed by faith, and winged by prayer.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Heaven’s eternal days before thee,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">God’s own hand shall guide us there.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Soon shall close thy earthly mission,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Soon shall pass thy pilgrim days,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Hope shall change to glad fruition,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Faith to sight, and prayer to praise.</span></div></div><div class="body" style="list-style-image: none;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">© 2001 Bill Moore Music.</span></div></div><div><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px;">Although the world will despise and forsake me, I still have Christ. I have the one who saved my soul to cling to and with that I am content and ever praising Him. Another verse that comes to mind is: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10. Despite my own condition, I still have Christ. He is everything or he is nothing. I sometimes cringe at how different my life would be if it had not been for Jesus </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px;">interceding in my life. My heart cannot fully express enough my gratitude and contentment in Him. Jesus died for this undeserving race. We are in debt for a eternity beyond comparison. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px;">This last Sunday, I was discussing with my friend at church about how truly happy I am there and it is ultimately where I am happiest. Why? It's the communal worshipping of our Lord! Everyone shares a similar view of who God is and what he has truly done for us. We all share the same love for Him. We know the truth and we rejoice in this. As the song discusses, life is short and who are we to assume that this life is ours to live? Life is but a mist in the air. Life is not ours, but it is God's. I encourage you to live life not in vain, but for Christ. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px;">Pray for me in sharing the Gospel among my friends who are unbelievers. I understand that it will be offensive and will possibly change and/or strain relations with them. I hope that they understand that it is out of love that I am inclined to share the truth with them. It is because I love them and care about their spiritual wellbeing, that I am willing to put myself worries of maintaining a relationship so that they too can have Christ. Pray for strength, endurance, and continuity in my sharing of the Gospel. Pray that I take advantage of every opportunity that I have to share the Gospel and embrace it. Thank you.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px;">Soli Deo Gloria.</span></span></div>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-6991693101536635812011-02-28T13:24:00.000-08:002011-03-28T12:41:55.515-07:00February: The Wonder of the Cross<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> Well, February is coming to a close and I have yet to select my song of the month.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">February has been one of the most hectic months so far in my college career and for a while I wasn't prioritizing well. There would be days where my a capella group would come first and then my school work and vice versa. It's been hard. I just didn't make the conscious decision that it was okay to say no to some things. I was swimming in all the commitments that I've agreed to. Although my life commitments have been bobbing up and down in the water, so to speak, I know that one thing remained constant throughout. God's grace could not have been more prominent in every aspect of my life. He has given me the grace to accomplish everything that I have foolishly accepted, and he has given me strength to accomplish these tasks to the best of my ability. One song that has been weighing heavy on my heart this month is <a href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CBQQtwIwAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3D-79joJJOdQs&ei=JRBsTYfMIonWtQOjweGmBA&usg=AFQjCNFdAB5DteuOUwa_cRAjAWq9NpMeJQ&sig2=D5CTO1WSpZhlfZz61yOULg">"The Wonder of the Cross" by Vicky Beeching</a>. The lyrics are as follows:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">O precious sight, my Savior stands,<br />
Dying for me with outstretched hands.<br />
O precious sight, I love to gaze,<br />
Remembering salvation’s day,<br />
Remembering salvation’s day.<br />
Though my eyes linger on this scene,<br />
May passing time and years not steal<br />
The power with which it impacts me,<br />
The freshness of its mystery,<br />
The freshness of its mystery.<br />
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May I never lose the wonder,<br />
The wonder of the cross.<br />
May I see it like the first time<br />
Standing as a sinner lost,<br />
Undone by mercy and left speechless,<br />
Watching wide eyed at the cost.<br />
May I never lose the wonder,<br />
The wonder of the cross.<br />
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Behold the God-man crucified,<br />
The perfect sinless sacrifice.<br />
As blood ran down those nails and wood,<br />
History was split in two, yes,<br />
History was split in two.<br />
Behold the empty wooden tree,<br />
His body gone, alive and free.<br />
We sing with everlasting joy,<br />
For sin and death have been destroyed, yes,<br />
Sin and death have been destroyed.<br />
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May I never lose the wonder,<br />
The wonder of the cross.<br />
May I see it like the first time<br />
Standing as a sinner lost,<br />
Undone by mercy and left speechless,<br />
Watching wide eyed at the cost.<br />
May I never lose the wonder,<br />
The wonder of the cross.<br />
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So basically amidst all my commitments, I was constantly reminded of the cross and all that Christ has done for me. It's so easy to go about my life and just casually address the topic of Jesus dying to save those he elected from eternal damnation. Because you know... he <i>only</i> died for us. It's no big deal. FALSE. Christ suffered the full wrath of God that was rightfully ours, but the perfect lamb was slain instead. How wonderful the gift that we have been given. We can never graduate from the Gospel. A friend of mine used a good example to explain how essential and important the Gospel is to our faith. She said learning the Gospel is like learning the basic alphabet. However, I doesn't stop here, I continue to use this alphabet for the rest of my life to read and learn more things by reading. The same goes from the Gospel. Let us never become casual with Christ or take the Gospel lightly. </span>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-78674125119403509232011-01-18T20:28:00.000-08:002011-01-18T20:38:24.968-08:00January: All I Have is Christ<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">So, I kind of want to start this "Song of the Month" type thing, where every month, I post one song that has been either weighing heavy on my heart, stuck in my head or for whatever reason. Along with the "Song of the Month," I'll include an update of where I've been or whatnot :)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">As seen by the title of this blog, the song that I chose for this month is: "All I Have is Christ" by Sovereign Grace Music. (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SMIc25U3Bkc">Can be hear by clicking here</a>) The lyrics are as follows: </span></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 22px;">I once was lost in darkest night</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 22px;">Yet thought I knew the way</span></div><div style="line-height: 22px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The sin that promised joy and life</span></div><div style="line-height: 22px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Had led me to the grave</span></div><div style="line-height: 22px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I had no hope that You would own</span></div><div style="line-height: 22px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">A rebel to Your will</span></div><div style="line-height: 22px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">And if You had not loved me first</span></div><div style="line-height: 22px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I would refuse You still</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;">But as I ran my hell-bound race</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 22px;">Indifferent to the cost</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 22px;">You looked upon my helpless state</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 22px;">And led me to the cross</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 22px;">And I beheld God’s love displayed</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 22px;">You suffered in my place</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 22px;">You bore the wrath reserved for me</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 22px;">Now all I know is grace</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><em style="line-height: 22px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; line-height: normal;"><em style="line-height: 22px;">Hallelujah! All I have is Christ</em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; line-height: normal;"><em style="line-height: 22px;">Hallelujah! Jesus is my life</em></span></div></em><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><div style="text-align: center;">Now, Lord, I would be Yours alone</div></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><div style="text-align: center;">And live so all might see</div></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><div style="text-align: center;">The strength to follow Your commands</div></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><div style="text-align: center;">Could never come from me</div></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><div style="text-align: center;">Oh Father, use my ransomed life</div></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><div style="text-align: center;">In any way You choose</div></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><div style="text-align: center;">And let my song forever be</div></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><div style="text-align: center;">My only boast is You</div></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">© 2008 Sovereign Grace Praise (BMI), by Jordan Kauflin</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;">The first time I heard this song was at this conference, Resolved. I was reduced to tears. It was a clear depiction of my moralistic life and how gracious God was to me. Christ coming down to die for an undeserving race. Having the righteous, just and holy wrath of God, the father, being poured out on the Son. Before coming to realize what this truly meant, it was all head-knowledge to me. I knew all the answers, but it never occurred to me how significant and crucial Christ's death was. Well, yeah I knew it was important for man kind going to heaven and whatever else, but the reason WHY we go to heaven is so that we can HAVE Christ. My brother described it as being a former pharisee and thus being delivered, saved from our hypocritical ways. My mom has finished her race. She is in heaven where she is with Jesus and He is everything. She has Him as her own and I have peace with this because I know that there is no other place that I rather have her be. To keep her here on earth would be selfish. She's in the loving and caring arms of her Savior. Who can care better for her than Christ?</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;">As my pastor says, "Christ is everything or He is nothing." The last verse is what always plays over and over and over again in my head. I want the remaining days of my life to look like that. I want my only boast to be Christ and how it is only by His grace that I have come to know what I know. Every time we sing this song in church, I always feel like I've run into a brick wall or more like the other way around. This really does portray the life of man before and after Christ. Verse one: the depravity of man. Because of our pride, we reject Christ. Verse two: What Christ has done for us, despite how undeserving. Verse three: Our response in what Christ did on the cross. To bring Him all the glory of which He is all-deserving.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><i style="line-height: 22px;">Hallelujah, All I have is Christ. Hallelujah, Jesus is my life. Amen.</i></span></span></div></span>HPhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00228087276131074613noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2507190319585544174.post-75242606084585638582010-04-19T00:32:00.000-07:002017-03-31T13:56:15.075-07:00Her Life Has Yet to Begin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My mom was one of the strongest women I knew. It has been a year since my mom was diagnosed and has been fighting against lung cancer. The doctors didn't think she would make it eight months ago, but with God's grace, she proved them wrong. She's done a lot of that in her life. I'm proud to say that I couldn't have asked for a better mama. On Sunday, April 18th, 2010 at 7:45pm, Thu-Thuyet Pham went into the strong arms of Jesus, with him saying "Well done, good and faithful servant."<br />
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She was a stubborn woman if anything, but had a kind, generous, gentle and loving heart. She had a heart for Jesus and children. Leaving her children and husband behind to build a church building in Vietnam and witnessing to the children and their parents by cooking meals, arts and crafts and Bible stories. She was really a selfless person, but a very prideful one at that.</div>
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I remember growing up and in order for me to be toilet trained, she had to paint one of my finger nails. Oh the blissful memories.<br />
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Despite her condition in the past, my mama has been praising the Jesus for all he's done long before cancer. She was a strong woman in the faith and I've always looked up to her. It humbled me seeing how she dealt with cancer and yet she still had a good attitude. She maintained positivity. Her faith was always evident in her life.<br />
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She went without pain. That's all I could ask for. There was no struggle, there was no pain. There was nothing, but peace. Good thing about having a long-term disease is the preparation, the slow let down and I am grateful for this. Goodbye cancer. Hello eternal life with Jesus!</div>
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We have been given so many opportunities to witness to our families and I'm thankful for that. We are together and will remain to be together.<br />
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To my friends and family, thank you so so much for all the support. You all have been caring and very generous and loving towards our family. I love you all so dearly and I can't thank you enough. Don't be too sad. My mom is in the loving arms of our Savior Jesus, singing praises to Him. To be quite honest, I'm envious of her! Yes, I am sad that I no longer have my mama, but the joy that I have in knowing that she's begun her eternal life with Christ, there's nothing more I could ask for. She's finished her life on earth which is literally a mist in comparison to what she's experiencing now: an eternity with Jesus, which has just begun. She glorified Jesus in all she did.</div>
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Mama, I'm proud of you. I love you and I'll always remember you, how you lived, how you cared, how you loved. You've got the best seat in the house to watch your babies grow up. I couldn't have asked for a greater woman to be my primary example in my life. I love you.<br />
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