Patience. I'm still learning these lesson time and time again.
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.
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.
Submission. I'm still learning this as well.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Saturday, April 20, 2013
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Contentment within this Season
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.
But how long does that contentment last?
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?
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.
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?
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?
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).
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).
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?
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).
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.
But how long does that contentment last?
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?
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.
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?
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?
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).
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).
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?
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).
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.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Hope for Sudan: Micah 6:8
Border Region, Sudan, Africa.
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| Photo courtesy of Kyle Kim and Global Post |
This is where my heart goes.
This is where my heart breaks.
Right now, in Sudan, there are 200,000 civilians being starved to death.
This has gone on for several years.
Unfortunately, this has been brought to my attention recently.
And now, I bring it to yours. So please, bear with me. Pray with us. Join us.
Where we sit as a country, we are comfortable, in our homes and offices.
Where Sudan sits as a country, they are running. Running on empty. Running for their lives. They are dying.
We, as a country, have so much.
And what of the Sudanese people? They have their hunger, fear and imminent death.
What can we do?
These are the facts and this is our mission:
I ask that you join us. Help us. Help us help these people.
Help us by praying, giving or going.
PRAY:
Pray BOLDLY. Our God is mighty. He can do all things.
Pray for this effort.
Pray for Sudan.
Pray for this effort.
Pray for Sudan.
Pray for the people.
Their physical state, their bodies, their lives. There is a lack of food.
Their physical state, their bodies, their lives. There is a lack of food.
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.
Pray that they hear the gospel and be renewed and transformed by it.
Pray that they hear of Jesus Christ, what He has accomplished for us on the cross and believe.
Pray for their leaders. That they would come to know Christ, repent and follow Him.
Pray for those that are saved. That they would have perseverance through this fight.
GIVE:
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.
You can DONATE HERE or send a check to the following address:
Hope Church of San Mateo
PO Box 25268
San Mateo, CA 94402
Be encouraged to know that we have raised 20% of our goal, so far.
Will you join our efforts?
We have so much to give. So will you?
GO:
We are not asking you to go to Sudan this instant, although it is very needed. We are asking you to
Go educate yourself. Find more to this issue that what's been provided here. (Links provided below with additional information.)
Go inform your family, friends, co-workers.
Go tell everyone you know, not just the people you think will make a difference.
Go raise awareness on this topic.
Go repost this blog or our site: hope4sudan.hopesanmateo.org
Go get involved with us at Hope.
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.
So I, as your friend, ask you to pray, give AND go.
GIVE:
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.
You can DONATE HERE or send a check to the following address:
Hope Church of San Mateo
PO Box 25268
San Mateo, CA 94402
Be encouraged to know that we have raised 20% of our goal, so far.
Will you join our efforts?
We have so much to give. So will you?
GO:
We are not asking you to go to Sudan this instant, although it is very needed. We are asking you to
Go educate yourself. Find more to this issue that what's been provided here. (Links provided below with additional information.)
Go inform your family, friends, co-workers.
Go tell everyone you know, not just the people you think will make a difference.
Go raise awareness on this topic.
Go repost this blog or our site: hope4sudan.hopesanmateo.org
Go get involved with us at Hope.
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.
So I, as your friend, ask you to pray, give AND go.
Additional information about the events that have occurred in Sudan:
Sunday, June 17, 2012
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV
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.
I got all my classes that I needed regardless of my late registration date.
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.
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| "So, uh, you know that anatomy final I was supposed to study for?" |
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.
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.
On tour in Northern California!
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 "Praying Backwards" by Bryan Chapell. 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.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?
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.
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.
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.
Speaking of relationships...
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Small Update :)
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.
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.
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. :)
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!
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...
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.
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!
Acts 20:24
"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."
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.
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!
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...
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.
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!
Acts 20:24
"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."
Saturday, January 28, 2012
A Continuous Service
I know that despite my own condition, whatever present or future ailment, joy or tribulation, I will continuously serve the Lord.
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.
For the past month or so, I struggled with this very thing.
I struggled a lot with "Head Knowledge" and "Application."
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.
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: Head Knowledge. But did I? Application.
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.
Lamentations 3:22-24
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."
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! :)
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.
Thank you so much for all your prayers, love and support! It means the world to me.
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.
For the past month or so, I struggled with this very thing.
I struggled a lot with "Head Knowledge" and "Application."
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.
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: Head Knowledge. But did I? Application.
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.
Lamentations 3:22-24
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."
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! :)
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.
Thank you so much for all your prayers, love and support! It means the world to me.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
December: God of God
Merry Christmas!
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?
There's nothing wrong with any of theses, but what we often forget is why we, as christians, celebrate Christmas.
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.
Deep in the prophets’ sacred page,
Grand in the poets’ winged word,
Slowly in type, from age to age,
Nations beheld their coming Lord;
Till through the deep Judean night
Rang out the song, Good will to men!
Hymned by the first born sons of light,
Re-echoed now, Good will! Amen.
Born to reign in us forever,
Born a child and yet a king
Born His people to deliver
Let us all in anthem sing,
"Hallelujah, the Messiah has come!"
That life of truth, those deeds of love,
That death of pain ’mid hate and scorn,
These all are past, and now above
He reigns our King, once crowned with thorn.
To Him who sits upon the throne,
The Lamb once slain for sinful men,
Be honor, might, all by Him won,
Glory and praise! Amen! Amen!
O God of God! O Light of Light!
Thou Prince of Peace, Thou King of kings,
To Thee, where angels know no night,
The song of praise forever rings!
Grand in the poets’ winged word,
Slowly in type, from age to age,
Nations beheld their coming Lord;
Till through the deep Judean night
Rang out the song, Good will to men!
Hymned by the first born sons of light,
Re-echoed now, Good will! Amen.
Born to reign in us forever,
Born a child and yet a king
Born His people to deliver
Let us all in anthem sing,
"Hallelujah, the Messiah has come!"
That life of truth, those deeds of love,
That death of pain ’mid hate and scorn,
These all are past, and now above
He reigns our King, once crowned with thorn.
To Him who sits upon the throne,
The Lamb once slain for sinful men,
Be honor, might, all by Him won,
Glory and praise! Amen! Amen!
O God of God! O Light of Light!
Thou Prince of Peace, Thou King of kings,
To Thee, where angels know no night,
The song of praise forever rings!
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).
This is why we celebrate Christmas :)
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Chaos: Temporarily Closed
Praise the Lord that this semester is over!
This semester has been one of the craziest I've been through.
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.
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.
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.
James 1: 2-4
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.
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.
Aside from this hot mess... a lot of fun happened too.
1 Corinthians 10:31
So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
Amen.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
November: Come, Thou Fount
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.
This month's song is: Come, Thou Fount sung by Page CXVI
Come, Thou Fount of every blessing,
Tune my heart to sing Thy grace;
Streams of mercy, never ceasing,
Call for songs of loudest praise.
Teach me some melodious sonnet,
Sung by flaming tongues above.
Praise the mount! I’m fixed upon it,
Mount of Thy redeeming love.
Tune my heart to sing Thy grace;
Streams of mercy, never ceasing,
Call for songs of loudest praise.
Teach me some melodious sonnet,
Sung by flaming tongues above.
Praise the mount! I’m fixed upon it,
Mount of Thy redeeming love.
Here I raise my Ebenezer;
Hither by Thy help I come;
And I hope, by Thy good pleasure,
Safely to arrive at home.
Hither by Thy help I come;
And I hope, by Thy good pleasure,
Safely to arrive at home.
Jesus sought me when a stranger,
Wandering from the fold of God;
He, to rescue me from danger,
Interposed His precious blood
Wandering from the fold of God;
He, to rescue me from danger,
Interposed His precious blood
O to grace how great a debtor
Daily I’m constrained to be!
Let Thy goodness, like a fetter,
Bind my wandering heart to Thee.
Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it,
Prone to leave the God I love;
Here’s my heart, O take and seal it,
Seal it for Thy courts above.
Daily I’m constrained to be!
Let Thy goodness, like a fetter,
Bind my wandering heart to Thee.
Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it,
Prone to leave the God I love;
Here’s my heart, O take and seal it,
Seal it for Thy courts above.
I am bound for the kingdom,
Won't you come with me?
Hallelujah, we sing.
O that day when freed from sinning,
I shall see Thy lovely face;
Clothed then in blood washed linen
How I’ll sing Thy sovereign grace;
Come, my Lord, no longer tarry,
Take my ransomed soul away;
Send thine angels now to carry
Me to realms of endless day.
I shall see Thy lovely face;
Clothed then in blood washed linen
How I’ll sing Thy sovereign grace;
Come, my Lord, no longer tarry,
Take my ransomed soul away;
Send thine angels now to carry
Me to realms of endless day.
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.
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. :)
Monday, October 31, 2011
October: I Will Glory in My Redeemer
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.
Despite all this, the other night, I had the opportunity to just sit down and talk with a friend about God. 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.
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.
This month's song is "I Will Glory in My Redeemer" by Sovereign Grace Music
Despite all this, the other night, I had the opportunity to just sit down and talk with a friend about God. 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.
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.
This month's song is "I Will Glory in My Redeemer" by Sovereign Grace Music
I will glory in my Redeemer
Whose priceless blood has ransomed me
Mine was the sin that drove the bitter nails
And hung Him on that judgment tree
I will glory in my Redeemer
Who crushed the power of sin and death
My only Savior before the Holy Judge
The Lamb Who is my righteousness
The Lamb Who is my righteousness
I will glory in my Redeemer
My life He bought, my love He owns
I have no longings for another
I’m satisfied in Him alone
I will glory in my Redeemer
His faithfulness my standing place
Though foes are mighty and rush upon me
My feet are firm, held by His grace
My feet are firm, held by His grace
I will glory in my Redeemer
Who carries me on eagle’s wings
He crowns my life with lovingkindness
His triumph song I’ll ever sing
I will glory in my Redeemer
Who waits for me at gates of gold
And when He calls me it will be paradise
His face forever to beholdHis face forever to behold
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.
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.
Thank you for all your love and support.
1 John 1:5-9
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.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
September: How Great Thou Art
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.
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.
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:
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 here. The lyrics are below:
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.
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:
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 here.
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 here. The lyrics are below:
O Lord my God,
When I in awesome wonder
Consider all the works Thy hand hath made
I see the stars
I hear the mighty thunder
Thy power throughout the universe displayed
When through the woods
And forest glades I wander
And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees
When I look down
From lofty mountain grandeur
And hear the brook, and feel the gentle breeze
Then sings my soul
Then sings my soul
And when I think
My God, his Son not sparing
Sent him to die I scarce can take it in
That on the cross
My burden gladly bearing
He bled and died to take away my sin
When Christ shall come
With shouts of acclamation
And take me home, What joy shall fill my heart!
Then I shall bow
In humble adoration
And there proclaim, "My God, how great you are!"
Then sings my soul
Then sings my soul
How great your love for us! (Then sings my soul)
You shed you blood for us! (Then sings my soul)
How great your love for us! (Then sings my soul)
You shed you blood for us! (Then sings my soul)
How great your grace for us!
That you gave it all for us!
Then sings my soul,
My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great you are!
How great you are!
Then sings my soul,
My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great you are!
How great you are!
How great he really is. Why?
Ephesians 2:1-10 1 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins 2 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— 3among whom we all once lived inthe passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body[a]and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. 4But[b] God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ— by grace you have been saved— 6and raised us up with him andseated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
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.
Then sings my soul: how great thou art!
When I in awesome wonder
Consider all the works Thy hand hath made
I see the stars
I hear the mighty thunder
Thy power throughout the universe displayed
When through the woods
And forest glades I wander
And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees
When I look down
From lofty mountain grandeur
And hear the brook, and feel the gentle breeze
Then sings my soul
Then sings my soul
And when I think
My God, his Son not sparing
Sent him to die I scarce can take it in
That on the cross
My burden gladly bearing
He bled and died to take away my sin
When Christ shall come
With shouts of acclamation
And take me home, What joy shall fill my heart!
Then I shall bow
In humble adoration
And there proclaim, "My God, how great you are!"
Then sings my soul
Then sings my soul
How great your love for us! (Then sings my soul)
You shed you blood for us! (Then sings my soul)
How great your love for us! (Then sings my soul)
You shed you blood for us! (Then sings my soul)
How great your grace for us!
That you gave it all for us!
Then sings my soul,
My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great you are!
How great you are!
Then sings my soul,
My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great you are!
How great you are!
How great he really is. Why?
Ephesians 2:1-10 1 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins 2 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— 3among whom we all once lived inthe passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body[a]and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. 4But[b] God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ— by grace you have been saved— 6and raised us up with him andseated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
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.
Then sings my soul: how great thou art!
Sunday, September 4, 2011
The Struggle for Contentment
I struggle.
I struggle daily.
I struggle daily with contentment.
"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:
I struggle daily.
I struggle daily with contentment.
"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:
Dearest Claire,
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: Enjoy it. 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. :)
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 (but not really). 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 GUARD YOUR HEART <3. 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 (and still am) 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 Romans 12 commands us.
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: “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. 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. 1 Timothy 3 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.
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 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.
Love,
Hannah P.
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.
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.
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.
A few helpful videos:
This video with Matt Chandler is a very good reminder and also helpful:
Basically, he sums up everything that I've typed up in this blog.
"Should Women Pursue Men?"
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.
I hope this blog has been helpful to you. Look to Christ, always.
I know I use this Bible verse a lot, but it holds a lot of meaning.
2 Corinthians 12:9-10
Currently listening to "Rock of Salvation" by Paul Stephens
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
August: There is a Fountain
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).
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 ever she were to struggle with this, to pray earnestly and look to the cross.
I feel that this song is a great reminder of what Christ has done for us. (Click HERE to listen to the song)
There is a Fountain
There is a fountain filled with blood
drawn from Emmanuel's veins;
and sinners plunge beneath that flood
lose all their guilty stains.
Dear dying Lamb, thy precious blood
shall never lose its power
till all the ransom church of god
be saved, to sin no more.
When this poor lisping, stammering tongue
lies silent in the grave,
then in a nobler, sweeter song,
I'll sing thy power to save.
This is the gospel:
Ephesians 2:1-5
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. 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...
1 Peter 3:18
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...
Romans 12:12
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
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.
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