Inspirational

The GLORY Shower

For days I have just been sitting with God and reflecting. The rain has been falling, and it has been Heavenly. Not, that it has always felt that way, but GOD. I was wondering about understanding HIS Glory more. He says He will take us from Glory, to Glory, to Glory. What does this mean?

Glory is a celebration. It is formed in the deepest darkest places, and through surrender of the most difficult circumstances and suffering. The birth of GLORY often takes much surrender, time,energy, and release.

Looking at HIS word, WE see that the GLORY embodies, entails and encompasses a lot of ground.

http://www.openbible.info/topics/glory_of_god

1 Corinthians 10:31 ESV / 230 helpful votes

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

Philippians 2:9-11 ESV / 110 helpful votes

Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Hebrews 1:3 ESV / 102 helpful votes

He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high,

Romans 11:36 ESV / 85 helpful votes

For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.

John 11:40 ESV / 84 helpful votes

Jesus said to her, “Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God?”

Exodus 24:17 ESV / 66 helpful votes

Now the appearance of the glory of the Lord was like a devouring fire on the top of the mountain in the sight of the people of Israel.

Romans 3:23 ESV / 63 helpful votes

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,

Isaiah 60:1 ESV / 60 helpful votes

Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.

Psalm 72:19 ESV / 59 helpful votes

Blessed be his glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with his glory! Amen and Amen!

Isaiah 42:8 ESV / 55 helpful votes

I am the Lord; that is my name; my glory I give to no other, nor my praise to carved idols.

Exodus 40:34-35 ESV / 53 helpful votes

Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. And Moses was not able to enter the tent of meeting because the cloud settled on it, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle.

Ephesians 1:17-21 ESV / 42 helpful votes

That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.

Habakkuk 2:14 ESV / 41 helpful votes

For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.

Revelation 21:11 ESV / 38 helpful votes

Having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal.

John 17:4-5 ESV / 38 helpful votes

I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do. And now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed.

Philippians 2:11 ESV / 37 helpful votes

And every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Colossians 1:27 ESV / 36 helpful votes

To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

Isaiah 58:8 ESV / 27 helpful votes

Then shall your light break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up speedily; your righteousness shall go before you; the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.

Psalm 8:1 ESV / 27 helpful votes

To the choirmaster: according to The Gittith. A Psalm of David. O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens.

Isaiah 61:6 ESV / 25 helpful votes

But you shall be called the priests of the Lord; they shall speak of you as the ministers of our God; you shall eat the wealth of the nations, and in their glory you shall boast.

Exodus 33:18 ESV / 23 helpful votes

Moses said, “Please show me your glory.”

Revelation 1:1-20 ESV / 17 helpful votes

The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, who bore witness to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw. Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near. John to the seven churches that are in Asia: Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven spirits who are before his throne, and from Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood …

Psalm 97:1-9 ESV / 14 helpful votes

The Lord reigns, let the earth rejoice; let the many coastlands be glad! Clouds and thick darkness are all around him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne. Fire goes before him and burns up his adversaries all around. His lightnings light up the world; the earth sees and trembles. The mountains melt like wax before the Lord, before the Lord of all the earth. …

1 Timothy 1:17 ESV / 13 helpful votes

To the King of ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

Ephesians 3:21 ESV / 13 helpful votes

To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 24:7-8 ESV / 13 helpful votes

Lift up your heads, O gates! And be lifted up, O ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord, strong and mighty, the Lord, mighty in battle!

Psalm 1:1-6 ESV / 13 helpful votes

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; …

Matthew 17:5 ESV / 11 helpful votes

He was still speaking when, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.”

Exodus 15:26 ESV / 11 helpful votes

Saying, “If you will diligently listen to the voice of the Lord your God, and do that which is right in his eyes, and give ear to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you that I put on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, your healer.”

Revelation 21:23-25 ESV / 10 helpful votes

And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb. By its light will the nations walk, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it, and its gates will never be shut by day—and there will be no night there.

Galatians 3:26 ESV / 10 helpful votes

For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith.

Isaiah 6:1-4 ESV / 10 helpful votes

In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him stood the seraphim. Each had six wings: with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. And one called to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!” And the foundations of the thresholds shook at the voice of him who called, and the house was filled with smoke.

Revelation 3:21 ESV / 8 helpful votes

The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne.

Colossians 3:24 ESV / 8 helpful votes

Knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.

1 Corinthians 2:9 ESV / 8 helpful votes

But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him”—

John 3:2 ESV / 8 helpful votes

This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.”

John 1:14 ESV / 8 helpful votes

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Luke 16:13 ESV / 8 helpful votes

No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.”

Luke 4:18 ESV / 8 helpful votes

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed,

1 Chronicles 16:28-29 ESV / 8 helpful votes

Ascribe to the Lord, O clans of the peoples, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength! Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; bring an offering and come before him! Worship theLord in the splendor of holiness;

Numbers 20:6 ESV / 8 helpful votes

Then Moses and Aaron went from the presence of the assembly to the entrance of the tent of meeting and fell on their faces. And the glory of the Lord appeared to them,

Romans 5:2 ESV / 7 helpful votes

Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

John 14:1 ESV / 7 helpful votes

“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.

John 1:1 ESV / 7 helpful votes

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

Matthew 17:1 ESV / 7 helpful votes

And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James, and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain by themselves.

Isaiah 43:4-7 ESV / 7 helpful votes

Because you are precious in my eyes, and honored, and I love you, I give men in return for you, peoples in exchange for your life. Fear not, for I am with you; I will bring your offspring from the east, and from the west I will gather you. I will say to the north, Give up, and to the south, Do not withhold; bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the end of the earth, everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.”

Psalm 91:1-16 ESV / 7 helpful votes

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler. You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day, …

Deuteronomy 4:19 ESV / 7 helpful votes

And beware lest you raise your eyes to heaven, and when you see the sun and the moon and the stars, all the host of heaven, you be drawn away and bow down to them and serve them, things that the Lord your God has allotted to all the peoples under the whole heaven.

Colossians 2:16 ESV / 6 helpful votes

Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath.

Galatians 6:17 ESV / 6 helpful votes

From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.

Luke 11:1 ESV / 6 helpful votes

Now Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.”

Mark 9:1 ESV / 6 helpful votes

And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God after it has come with power.”

Psalm 104:2 ESV / 6 helpful votes

Covering yourself with light as with a garment, stretching out the heavens like a tent.

Psalm 19:7 ESV / 6 helpful votes

The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple;

Psalm 19:1-14 ESV / 6 helpful votes

To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words, whose voice is not heard. Their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them he has set a tent for the sun, which comes out like a bridegroom leaving his chamber, and, like a strong man, runs its course with joy. …

Deuteronomy 4:2 ESV / 6 helpful votes

You shall not add to the word that I command you, nor take from it, that you may keep the commandments of the Lord your God that I command you.

Leviticus 10:3 ESV / 6 helpful votes

Then Moses said to Aaron, “This is what the Lord has said, ‘Among those who are near me I will be sanctified, and before all the people I will be glorified.’” And Aaron held his peace.

Exodus 13:21 ESV / 6 helpful votes

And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night.

Genesis 1:1 ESV / 6 helpful votes

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.

2 Peter 1:21 ESV / 5 helpful votes

For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

Colossians 2:9 ESV / 5 helpful votes

For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily,

Philippians 2:10 ESV / 5 helpful votes

So that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

Philippians 2:9 ESV / 5 helpful votes

Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name,

Galatians 3:28 ESV / 5 helpful votes

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

Acts 1:8 ESV / 5 helpful votes

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

John 17:16-17 ESV / 5 helpful votes

They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.

John 9:35 ESV / 5 helpful votes

Jesus heard that they had cast him out, and having found him he said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?”

John 3:1-36 ESV / 5 helpful votes

Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.” Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. …

Ezekiel 43:4 ESV / 5 helpful votes

As the glory of the Lord entered the temple by the gate facing east,

Isaiah 42:5 ESV / 5 helpful votes

Thus says God, the Lord, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and what comes from it, who gives breath to the people on it and spirit to those who walk in it:

Isaiah 1:1-31 ESV / 5 helpful votes

The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah. Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth; for the Lord has spoken: “Children have I reared and brought up, but they have rebelled against me. The ox knows its owner, and the donkey its master’s crib, but Israel does not know, my people do not understand.” Ah, sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, offspring of evildoers, children who deal corruptly! They have forsaken theLord, they have despised the Holy One of Israel, they are utterly estranged. Why will you still be struck down? Why will you continue to rebel? The whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint. …

Psalm 24:1 ESV / 5 helpful votes

A Psalm of David. The earth is the Lord‘s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein,

Job 1:1-22 ESV / 5 helpful votes

There was a man in the land of Uz whose name was Job, and that man was blameless and upright, one who feared God and turned away from evil. There were born to him seven sons and three daughters. He possessed 7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, 500 yoke of oxen, and 500 female donkeys, and very many servants, so that this man was the greatest of all the people of the east. His sons used to go and hold a feast in the house of each one on his day, and they would send and invite their three sisters to eat and drink with them. And when the days of the feast had run their course, Job would send and consecrate them, and he would rise early in the morning and offer burnt offerings according to the number of them all. For Job said, “It may be that my children have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts.” Thus Job did continually. …

Revelation 20:6 ESV / 4 helpful votes

Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection! Over such the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him for a thousand years.

Acts 10:38 ESV / 4 helpful votes

How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.

John 5:24 ESV / 4 helpful votes

Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.

Genesis 1:27 ESV / 4 helpful votes

So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.

2 Corinthians 4:6 ESV / 3 helpful votes

For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

Romans 13:3 ESV / 3 helpful votes

For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval,

John 14:28 ESV / 3 helpful votes

You heard me say to you, ‘I am going away, and I will come to you.’ If you loved me, you would have rejoiced, because I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I.

Mark 10:17-22 ESV / 3 helpful votes

And as he was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before him and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone. You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder, Do not commit adultery, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and mother.’” And he said to him, “Teacher, all these I have kept from my youth.” And Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” …

Ezekiel 43:1-12 ESV / 3 helpful votes

Then he led me to the gate, the gate facing east. And behold, the glory of the God of Israel was coming from the east. And the sound of his coming was like the sound of many waters, and the earth shone with his glory. And the vision I saw was just like the vision that I had seen when he came to destroy the city, and just like the vision that I had seen by the Chebar canal. And I fell on my face. As the glory of the Lord entered the temple by the gate facing east, the Spirit lifted me up and brought me into the inner court; and behold, the glory of the Lord filled the temple. …

Psalm 73:26 ESV / 3 helpful vote79d56d906567069330ae654be6e568b3 10353022_803055323103018_3981122065501669969_n images shower2

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

John 3:16 ESV / 2 helpful votes

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

Mark 1:15 ESV / 2 helpful votes

And saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”

Deuteronomy 6:4 ESV / 2 helpful votes

“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.

I was reminded that GLORY is not about our perfection. It IS about the perfection of GOD, and HIS perfect LOVE that heals us. It is the LOVE of GOd that drives away the enemy. ONLY the LOVE of GOd can reach in and pull someone out of a pit.

Recently, I was asked to speak at a dear brother’s event. I really was not sure about it. But, as I prayed, I kept getting more peace. So, the time approached, and I was under heavy fire. I was not feeling my best, but I pushed through. By His Grace alone, God moved.

While we were there, I was in worship, in the audience. I was waiting to be called up to participate. All of the sudden, the Lord interrupted my worship. I sensed, I needed to ask the woman behind me for something. I could tell she wanted to cling to JEsus. Her children were having trouble sitting still. I never thought I could miss that. But, dear friends, I absolutely do miss it.

I did not know this woman, and I really like to respect people’s time to worship God. However, the holy spirit kept prompting me to ask her something. I asked her if one of her children could sit with me. She graciously agreed. Her precious daughter came and sat with me. she received with JOY the tender hugs and kisses on the forehead. I received the gift of the presence of HEAVEN.

I had explained gently to the mother, that our daughter had passed into Heaven completely in 2013. It is still so hard to wrap my head around that fact. Not to mention, how much of a challenge it is to my heart. But God. He saw my heart, and encouraged me to be courageous to ask for my need to be met.

I am so grateful I did. God used that time with this precious JOY child. He prepared me for going up to speak. Heaven fell, and the GLORY showered us all. It was so incredibly beautiful. 🙂

No one will tell you that the GLORY of God is easy. If they do, then walk away, and fast. The life God has given us is meant to be challenging at times. Because, it is in those times, that WE fully rely and depend on GOD alone. No one else can give us what HE does.

To look at the definition of Glory is interesting.

Full Definition of GLORY

1
a :  praise, honor, or distinction extended by common consent :  renown

b :  worshipful praise, honor, and thanksgiving <giving glory to God>

2
a :  something that secures praise or renown <the glory of a brilliant career>

b :  a distinguished quality or asset

3
a (1) :  great beauty and splendor :  magnificence <the glory that was Greece and the grandeur that was Rome — E. A. Poe> (2) :  something marked by beauty or resplendence <a perfect glory of a day>

b :  the splendor and beatific happiness of heaven; broadly :  eternity

4
a :  a state of great gratification or exaltation <when she’s acting she’s in her glory>

b :  a height of prosperity or achievement

5
:  a ring or spot of light: as

a :  aureole

b :  a halo appearing around the shadow of an object

Examples of GLORY

  1. As a young soldier he dreamed of winning military glory.
  2. He now has only a few trophies to remind him of the glory of his athletic career.
  3. Let us give glory to God.
  4. The glory of the town is its fountain.
  5. an art exhibit showing off the glories of ancient civilizations
  6. The new owners are trying to restore the company to its former glory.
  7. The beautiful art reminds us of the glory of the empire.

Origin of GLORY

Middle English glorie, from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French, from Latingloria

First Known Use: 14th century
God wants us to choose HIS ways in full, not part. He will NOT settle for half way. Are you willing to go with HIM? To the darkest places and most desolate and to HELL when necessary. Will you be used to rescue and save? Can JESUS move through you? He is requesting full access.
I would NOT want to be someone not knowing HIM in this hour. He loves even the unbelievers, but the LOVE is going to show up in ways that look strange to others indeed. Because, GOD disciplines those He loves.
I receive HIS Glory shower. No matter the pain and suffering. It is worth it to LOVE, and be LOVED by my incredible, awe inspriring, and unrelentless GLORIOUS KING.
In His Grace and GLORY,
E and Fam

 

01 Mar 2015

Thank YOU is enough

The Lord has been dealing with me on gratefulness for a while. People have never ever understood me. I’m not saying I haven’t had love. I am saying, that GOD is the only one meant to fully understand and get us. He is and has been teaching me how wonderful being thankful and grateful are. It is such a gift to look to HIM in thanks.

For years before Sarah Elizabeth left us, I would say something to her. I would say, “Always be grateful.” I would say it to her, because God had said it to me. She lived a life worthy of praise. Because JESUS thrived in this kid. Even though I would say this to her, I struggled and even battled ungratefulness.

I was not thankful of grateful. From the outside looking in, I had everything. I had a stable husband who loved me, a beautiful child, good friends, a nice vehicle, many houses, and so much more. Most important, I had and HAVE a God who deserves thanks. Yet, everyday I would wake up dreading the minutes, hours, and even seconds. I complained about everything. I did not mean to, and it was NOT on purpose. But, I could not receive the LIFE He was offering and had gifted me.

So, for years, I would seek God’s help. I would say, “Make me grateful for your glory. Thank you Lord.” I would smile through much pain, that was hidden yet not. I told someone just yesterday, “I am a horrible liar.” I always tell the truth. I once watched a movie about lying. It had a character who because of a child, had to tell the truth. THAT is what happened to me.

I had been preaching Jesus, and teaching HIM, while always wondering something. Do I really know HIM and does HE know me? When this precious child came into my life, our lives, I was forced to face myself. To face God in a new way became my daily chore. Oh, what a burden it was. But, OH what a blessing it became.

Even now, I am still healing. In fact, in some ways I would say THIS has been a catalyst for the TRUE healing to show up. WE are healing as a family. God knows exactly what that means. It really is hard to describe. Except to say now I breathe in JESUS. I could not do that before, for so many reasons.

Psalm 118:24 ESV / 506 helpful votes

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV / 445 helpful votes

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Colossians 3:17 ESV / 440 helpful votes

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Psalm 136:1 ESV / 368 helpful votes

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.

Ephesians 1:16 ESV / 334 helpful votes

I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers,

James 1:17 ESV / 278 helpful votes

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

Hebrews 12:28 ESV / 242 helpful votes

Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe,

Colossians 3:15 ESV / 236 helpful votes

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.

Colossians 3:15-20 ESV / 193 helpful votes

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them. …

Romans 8:28 ESV / 173 helpful votes

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Psalm 107:1 ESV / 151 helpful votes

Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!

Psalm 50:23 ESV / 138 helpful votes

The one who offers thanksgiving as his sacrifice glorifies me; to one who orders his way rightly I will show the salvation of God!”

Psalm 100:1-5 ESV / 136 helpful votes

A Psalm for giving thanks. Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing! Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.

Ephesians 5:20 ESV / 135 helpful votes

Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,

Matthew 6:21 ESV / 123 helpful votes

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

1 Corinthians 15:10 ESV / 111 helpful votes

But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me.

Acts 24:3 ESV / 111 helpful votes

In every way and everywhere we accept this with all gratitude.

Luke 17:11-19 ESV / 89 helpful votes

On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; …

Ephesians 1:16-18 ESV / 85 helpful votes

I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints,

Psalm 118:28-29 ESV / 79 helpful votes

You are my God, and I will give thanks to you; you are my God; I will extol you. Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!

Hebrews 13:15 ESV / 75 helpful votes

Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name.

John 11:41 ESV / 71 helpful votes

So they took away the stone. And Jesus lifted up his eyes and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me.

Psalm 118:1-18 ESV / 70 helpful votes

Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever! Let Israel say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” Let the house of Aaron say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” Let those who fear the Lord say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” Out of my distress I called on the Lord; the Lord answered me and set me free. …

Colossians 3:16 ESV / 67 helpful votes

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.

1 Timothy 2:1 ESV / 60 helpful votes

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people,

Psalm 105:1 ESV / 60 helpful votes

Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples!

Lamentations 3:23 ESV / 57 helpful votes

They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

Psalm 103:1-5 ESV / 55 helpful votes

Of David. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

Psalm 92:1 ESV / 51 helpful votes

A Psalm. A Song for the Sabbath. It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Most High;

Psalm 50:14 ESV / 50 helpful votes

Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and perform your vows to the Most High,

Colossians 2:6-7 ESV / 49 helpful votes

Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.

1 Corinthians 4:7-9 ESV / 49 helpful votes

For who sees anything different in you? What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it? Already you have all you want! Already you have become rich! Without us you have become kings! And would that you did reign, so that we might share the rule with you! For I think that God has exhibited us apostles as last of all, like men sentenced to death, because we have become a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men.

2 Corinthians 2:14 ESV / 48 helpful votes

But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere.

The vision has changed, and the direction looks strange to me. But, as a precious angel said, “Strange things will be happening. But YOU have to let them happen. They may not look like God’s will, but they are. God has proven He can be trusted. He will do ALL He said He would do. It will be HIS time, His way. Stay surrendered, this is critical. He loves you.”

i_thank_you images (1) images maxresdefault thankyou ThankYou-Image thank-you-post-it

I will leave you with this. THANK you is the only thing I could muster when Sarah died. It had the biggest impact on me, of anything in my life. Because it was like everything rolled into one. Can you say thank you for the sunshine and the rain? Can you say thank you for the joy and the pain? There is freedom in thank you. It is a bounty for our KING.

In His Grace and Glory,

E and Fam

21 Feb 2015

Who is your WORSHIP?

holy-spirit-people-in-worship worship worship-2 worship-640x199 Worship-e1365622083392

For days I have been pondering this question. Who is my worship? Is it FULLY in Christ? Because, if it is, then when I go through times that are set up to destroy, I will NOT be defeated. I believe in my life, MOST of my life was lived with mixed worship. In fact, at one time, I worshiped so many things and people, and really believed that it was of God. But, it was NOT. IT was simply the conditioning of mind that comes from the world.

http://www.openbible.info/topics/worship

John 4:24 ESV / 281 helpful votes

God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”

Psalm 95:6 ESV / 249 helpful votes

Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!

Colossians 3:14-17 ESV / 154 helpful votes

And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Romans 12:1 ESV / 138 helpful votes

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

Isaiah 12:5 ESV / 138 helpful votes

“Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously; let this be made known in all the earth.

John 4:23 ESV / 122 helpful votes

But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him.

Hebrews 13:15 ESV / 113 helpful votes

Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name.

Luke 4:8 ESV / 101 helpful votes

And Jesus answered him, “It is written, “‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve.’”

Hebrews 12:28 ESV / 83 helpful votes

Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe,

Psalm 95:1-6 ESV / 67 helpful votes

Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise! For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In his hand are the depths of the earth; the heights of the mountains are his also. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land. …

Matthew 18:20 ESV / 61 helpful votes

For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”

Hebrews 10:25 ESV / 58 helpful votes

Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Psalm 132:7 ESV / 55 helpful votes

“Let us go to his dwelling place; let us worship at his footstool!”

Psalm 29:2 ESV / 53 helpful votes

Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness.

Revelation 19:10 ESV / 47 helpful votes

Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said to me, “You must not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God.” For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.

Isaiah 56:7 ESV / 42 helpful votes

These I will bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer; their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples.”

Revelation 14:7 ESV / 40 helpful votes

And he said with a loud voice, “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come, and worship him who made heaven and earth, the sea and the springs of water.”

Psalm 99:5 ESV / 37 helpful votes

Exalt the Lord our God; worship at his footstool! Holy is he!

1 Peter 2:5 ESV / 36 helpful votes

You yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

Psalm 84:10 ESV / 36 helpful votes

For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness.

There was a TIME in my life that I worshiped music. In fact, it was such a problem that God striped me of it for 15 years. I could not write, I did not sing much, except sometimes in church. I did not have a passion for it, like I once had. He really tested me in this time of my life. It really was NOT until Sarah Elizabeth was born, that my desire to connect to God through music came to life again.

As a dear sister gently pointed out, I was focused on a performance based life. Never could I do things for me, because I was trained and taught that was simply selfish. Yet, God sees us honoring HIM within, as we receive gifts for us. Meaning, there is a time to let GOD bless and heal you. If you do NOT do this, then you will be destroyed by giving your all to others, and sacrificing the needs you have.

I have always disliked the term self worth. In fact, for years because of psychological abuse, I really hated psychology. But, NOW that I have forgiven those involved, and even myself for what transpired in that time, I can see how GOd uses this and other sciences for deep healing purposes. I always try to be upfront. Sometimes, I can be a bit too real, raw and relational, but for better or worse, THAT is just how HE made me. I am learning to REST in His quietness, and that finally there is REAL safety and JOY that resides there too. I even forgave God. Remember He never makes mistakes or does anything wrong. Though, sometimes His choices are hard to process and can hurt. So, forgiveness ALL across the BOARD is necessary.

I am thankful to hear that people are being blessed by this site. I was told today that my outlook was refreshing. I am so humbled by the LOVE of God. It is often so tough to just REST for me. I mean, just to sit and let GOD LOVE on me. I spent A LOT of my life having performance drive me. I thank GOD also for my spouse. He looks out for me, and so do our kids. God uses them to encourage, love on me, and help me to see truths, even hard ones. I am so grateful. There is lots of healing taking place. There is restoration and wholeness that WE are seeing right before our eyes. Why? Because JESUS is our worship, NOW and forevermore.

In His Grace and Glory,

E and FAM

 

 

17 Feb 2015

Who is Sarah in me???

10273498_10152872482697785_4759740883235335450_n 10306086_10152872579252785_3709332042092437188_n 10307200_10152921095957785_5214134257696538820_n 10352415_10152872570037785_57820785466710800_n 10424365_10153046332817785_5166810245314112769_n 10534117_10153035712682785_3149373111854498049_n 10551057_10153035975977785_1329849181222001721_n 10584071_10153041342612785_1766653364807497367_n 10629809_10153111053447785_7211140165111379869_n (1)When WE get words, ideas, or insights, it is important to ask for when He wants them shared. SOmetimes, it is critical, because there are times when He wants to give us a personal one. It may NOT be meant for everyone else, and it is a special gift just from God. Our family that blogs has random titles come to us. Some are for books, movies, or simply titles of an entry. A family that prays together, definitely stay together. A family that blogs together, stays out of the SMOG together. 😉

I believe it was yesterday, that the LORD started speaking to me about this topic. I was reflecting on the story of Sarah and Abraham. Now, THIS is a story I love. As a kid, I thought I understood it. But, NOW there is a whole new level of understanding. Sarah and Abraham had a deep desire. Their desire was for children yes, but they also desired to please GOD. Abraham, just wanted to exist to please HIM, and did. Sarah was worn a bit, by the world. But, she did LOVE Him. There is no doubt about that.

Sarah was given so many promises. Even before she married Abraham, she was promised that the LORD would do much in her and through her. She was used to seeing things happen in front of her. She was not used to just accepting it, from the perspective of TRUST in God.

http://christianity.about.com/od/oldtestamentpeople/a/Sarah.htm

This is a profile of her from scripture.

http://christianity.about.com/od/oldtestamentpeople/p/abraham.htm

Here is one of Abraham.

It is interesting to me, how much they compliment each other. Such Heavenly orchestration taking place, because HE loves so deeply for us all.

Now, I bring up this SARAH to also speak about our Sarah. She lived up to her name. This kid shined FaITH. She lived faith in a way that was like SARAH and ABRAHAM infused. It was and still IS inspiring to us.

So who is Sarah in me? Well, Sarah our daughter, in me, is the one who just loves to have fun. But, also, the greatest fun and JOY that can be acquired is through JESUS.  She knew that, and she would tell everyone she knew. So, I am learning to do that too. His command is, “GO and tell the world, what you know.” It is an honor and a gift to do this through HIM. In Heaven our daughter Sarah, is called Sar AH. I really adore that. God sees her as a breath of fresh air. It is beautiful to see things through her eyes. But, I admit it is often a challenge too.

Sarah from scripture in me, is the one that has been taught to want proof of something. IT is the battle that wages within. Faith v/s proof. But, when WE have full and immovable and unstoppable faith, then when the enemy demands proof, WE can REST. Knowing that in time our GOD will provide everything that is needed, and HE alone is our vindicator. I would love to say that the taunting, teasing, and name calling stops, but it does not. Persecution, strange as it seems, is also a gift from God. It let’s us know HE is moving, and that WE are still on the right path.

When I got married, I was given the gift and responsibility of being the head of the house. Now, let me explain this part, because I did not want it. My husband David, was practically an atheist when we first got together. Deep within, HE was very against things of God. This was because HE was exposed to GOD in a pretty harsh way. He was brought up, pretty brow beaten by Christianity. So, because I was in a different place, and knew how to lead, I was a “temporary head.” I am glad I got to have that chance. Because, what I learned was, It is a HaRD job. It is impossible without GOD.

For years into the marriage, I kept trying to push my husband to step up and out. He took baby steps, and it was a HArD time. I cried out to GOD every single moment. His work was HIS God, and HE would indirectly bring HELL into our home. So, one day I sat down with him and explained, He had to be ALL in, or ALL out. It was around 2 years into our marriage. WE had to make this decision together. But, HE had to choose to agree with GOD, by faith. He began to see more of ABraham. I asked D one day, when he became a believer. He said, hard to say. He did say, if He had to pinpoint a time of change, he would say, when we married. I believe THAT is significant.

Because God gave us the GRacE to walk through this process, I have a great respect for the headship position. Unknowing to me, my husband was used to pray me through the challenges. I am going to be really REAL and RAW about something. For years, I loved my husband, but I was NOT in LOVE with him. I struggled with that, because I knew, somehow it was also related to how I was with God. It was NOT until our faith and endurance, as well as loyalty to GOd, was tested, that I and WE began to see just how much LOVE had been sown. It overrode any of the dischord. We both chose HIM and HIS ways, by faith then, and do so now united.

Once, WE took any focus off of us, and put it on JESUS and what HE wanted, WE started to see a BIG change. Now, mind you, this did not completely happen overnight. However, it did and does happen. My husband knows how to be quiet. Thank GOd for that, because when we married, I hated quiet. I was terrified of it. When Sarah Beth was little, I was so taunted about what could happen, that I battled accepting what GOD wanted to be, by FAITH. Because for a while we were unequally yoked, it was a constant surrender process. Even with us being equally yoked, surrender is still the BEST gift we can give to HIM. In our lives WE surrender everything and everyone daily.

In the process of ALL these changes, my husband and I learned so much. We have been given schools of knowledge and wisdom through our time together. Life is surreal, it is most days like a dream for us. Some ask if it is a nightmare. Very rarely do WE endure the nightmare stage any longer, because JESUS has taught us to WAR through REST. There is a time for everything. Looking back on our past, is fascinating, because it is such a whirlwind, tornado, earthquake, and every other disaster rolled into one. Yet, the rainbows stand and WE look forward to the promises as WE dance in the storms. We thank GOD for the gifts a plenty all around us. Not one day passes, where WE don’t appreciate what was, is and will be.

http://www.openbible.info/topics/child_of_god

John 1:12 ESV / 185 helpful votes

But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,

Galatians 3:26 ESV / 114 helpful votes

For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith.

Romans 8:17-19 ESV / 63 helpful votes

And if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God.

1 John 2:28-3:10 ESV / 51 helpful votes

And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming. If you know that he is righteous, you may be sure that everyone who practices righteousness has been born of him. See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure. …

1 Peter 2:10 ESV / 44 helpful votes

Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

Romans 5:1-21 ESV / 32 helpful votes

Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. …

Romans 8:28 ESV / 30 helpful votes

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:17 ESV / 27 helpful votes

And if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.

Romans 12:2 ESV / 23 helpful votes

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Romans 5:8 ESV / 23 helpful votes

But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Matthew 5:9 ESV / 20 helpful votes

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

Galatians 3:28 ESV / 19 helpful votes

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

1 John 1:9 ESV / 15 helpful votes

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV / 13 helpful votes

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

1 Corinthians 6:19 ESV / 13 helpful votes

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own,

Romans 8:16 ESV / 13 helpful votes

The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,

John 3:16 ESV / 12 helpful votes

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 ESV / 11 helpful votes

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.

2 Peter 3:9 ESV / 10 helpful votes

The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.

Ephesians 2:13 ESV / 10 helpful votes

But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

1 Corinthians 10:13 ESV / 10 helpful votes

No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

Romans 10:9-10 ESV / 10 helpful votes

Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.

Matthew 6:1-34 ESV / 10 helpful votes

“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. “Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. “And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. …

Psalm 119:1-176 ESV / 10 helpful votes

Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord! Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways! You have commanded your precepts to be kept diligently. Oh that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes! …

1 Corinthians 12:1-31 ESV / 9 helpful votes

Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led. Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; …

Acts 16:31 ESV / 9 helpful votes

And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.”

Through the STORMS, His faithfulness rains. That is the title of our daughter Ruby’s book. It is fitting to think about Sarah and Abraham. How they began, what they endured. Who is Sarah to you? Who is Abraham? I encourage you to seek the LORD, while HE can be found. Oh how HE LOVES us, and HE is faithful indeed.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

22 days ago, I was led to write this entry prior. I need to be upfront and tell you, it was not an easy entry, and I knew it was unfinished. I prayed asking God when to finish it. I just kept waiting for HIS peace to rise up. But, every corner I was turning seemed to hold chaos, and craziness. Not to mention darkness, and deep discouragement. I would have people tell me how depressed I was. But, the truth is it was NOT depression.

What it was, was like a trip. Every dream would be darker and more complicated than the one before. For those who know about warfare, it was THAT and then some. But, last night my husband, being used and led by Jesus spoke something to me. He said, “Perhaps the point of all of this is to teach you that, even if you don’t feel the peace in the midst of the darkness, it is there. To show you how to be content in the chaos. ”

I am not sure where Jesus ended, and where David began. But, hearing the kindness in the words, really was healing to my soul. In scripture it speaks about nectar of the lips.( Proverbs 16:24 ) Pleasant words are as a honeycomb, sweet to the mind and healing to the body. I had never had THIS experience in THIS way, with my spouse. Though, I have with Jesus, one on one before. Women, it takes courage to heal. Men, it takes courage to heal. THAT courage can ONLY come from JESUS. It is a gift that we are given, when we agree to do things GOd’s way. The next proverb after this one, speaks of a man’s ways. How, the ways of man lead to death. BUt, the ways of God lead to eternal life. There is a way that seems right to a man and appears straight before him, but at the end of it is the way of death. (Proverbs 16:25)

Something happened, when KINDNESS fell upon my spouse. I had experienced MANY times of darkness with him. But, NEVER had I been so showered by the SON in my spouse. It was like all of the sudden, the clouds parted and all I could see was the SON. Perhaps we need to have those times to draw into Jesus. Maybe it is even a good reminder that it takes a voyage through Hell to get to Heaven. Jesus did not escape this, nor shall we. Because of this ONE moment in time, I was able finally to SEE the fruit of the labor of almost 9 years. Constantly, praying for and with each other, and seeking GOD to remove the pain, was suddenly worth it. But, what WE did not understand was that PAIN is something that must be worked through.

It is the greatest TRAP that there is. PAIN, is a catalyst and a close kin to DEATH. Remember surrendered anything can be made beautiful by the LOVE of GOd. BUt, unsurrendered, and worshipped, PAIN only brings the enemy gain. I say this to share something more. I spoke about Sarah our daughter, and I did not speak about Sarah my mother.

I had a very interesting relationship with my mother. IT was almost as if we were part of each other. According to science, we very much were. I wanted and craved mom’s approval, attention, support and anything she could give me. I looked to my mom as God, in a sense, because I lived in such fear of everything. The reason why is, because it was what I knew. SO, when GOD at an early age began introducing me to faith, it was foreign to me. Yet, IT was like a piece of me that was missing.

So, when my mom went home to Heaven in 2000, I died with her. The child I was, the pain I had buried, died with her. But, God kept me here. I did NOT know why. I did NOT want to be here on earth. In fact, the pain cut so deep, that I was promiscuous, I cut myself, I lived in a prison of PAIN. I indirectly, while preaching GOD served the devil. Why? Because that darkness had become a comfort to me. I was trapped, and yet felt found. But, my heart and my feelings were so mixed up. The only thing I knew that was REAL is that somehow GOd would use every ounce of hurt, pain, and gut wrenching agony for a purpose. I always knew, even in the darkness that Jesus was my saving light.

I lived, in a sense in my mother’s shadow. Much like a preacher’s child, I was a teacher’s child. Everyone knew and knows my family. Especially, in my home town, we were well known, and had an image to uphold. I don’t believe it was a conscious choice, it was more a subconscious training, about not airing dirty laundry. I was the kid, who at a very young age would get consumed by sadness. But, the sadness was never my own. Even when things happened to me, it really was never about me. Yet, everywhere I turned, I was told I was selfish. I kept trying to make everyone happy. I wanted everyone to just get along. My mother did everything she could to be a good mom to me. I needed a lot of LOVE, and I did not understand that ONLY God could give it to me.

In some ways I have become Sarah’s daughter. I have her wit at times, and her smile. I see my body going through changes I recall with her. My mom gave me everything she had, and then there was nothing left. I am grateful for her sacrifices, and I feel sad for what was lost, and at times what has been left behind. But, I do believe that giving these thoughts, feelings, and even memories over to God is a gift to HIM. He wants ALL of us. I have such a strong desire for all of my family to really KNOW God. Not just as a name, or a word, but as a REAL live gift and treasure. I tried for years to carry on what mom started in the family. For years I felt I had failed. As I watched pain after pain come and go, I would question GOd asking why is this happening? I would say, “You promised SO much more.”

What I would hear is this, “MY GRACE is sufficient and my power is made perfect in your weakness.” So, I gift all of it, once again back over to the cross. I give freely all of my relatives, friends, and enemies to HIM. Because, it is no longer a burden I can bear. I choose THIS day to be Sarah’s daughter, and Vernon’s daughter, but also to know that they are not my only parents. That before I look to them, or anyone else for guidance, I must seek the FACE of my KING. I must seek the hand of GOD to hold me, when I can’t feel it, but when I know it.

There is a time and season for everything. Each day, the past must die, but what was GOOD must live. What is GOD must thrive. There is a balm in gilead, and HIS name is JESUS. Who is Sarah to me? Who is Sarah in me? I hope that it is the part of me that clings to FAITH. The part of me that even when I am lying there dying, knows there is a purpose and a plan far beyond me. That somehow and someway, healing will not just trickle, but will FLOW as HIS Love envelops the ashes, and transforms them into something that is of HEAVEN and NOT Hell anymore.

I bring this to you LORD, and I thank you for ALWAYS being exactly what I need, when I need it, and ALWAYS believing in me, even when I cannot connect on this earth. I thank you JESUS, for always keeping your word and promises. You might not always be obvious to others, but I can safely say it has BECOME and IS becoming obvious to me. I give you my heart, my soul, my life. I thank you for giving me life. In Jesus Holy name. Amen

In His Grace and Glory,

E and Fam

 

29 Jan 2015

Erase, Destroy, and Reverse

I was woken around 5am today. I opened my eyes, thankful for another day. Feeling weary a bit, and surrendering deeper. The first words I heard were, “There is ALWAYS something that MUST go.” It has been an interesting few days. WE and I, am thankful for HIS protection, guidance and strength. I am learning a lot. Because, GOD loves me, and you as well. He wants to teach HIS kids.

Yesterday, at a conference I realized something. It is so simple, in retrospect. I got the revelation that our ashes are beautiful, and a gift to God. The places in our lives that are so deep, WE can barely speak, and those thoughts that we dare not even say again, and ALL of who WE are, burned, or shining is so PRECIOUS to God.

Now, I have always known HE loved me, yes. But, ONLY recently did I come to a NEW level of intimacy and appreciation of that amazing LOVE. A place where I can REST in it, and just exist with HIM holding me. Before I fell asleep, I was listening to a song about the KING being enthralled with my beauty. I was reflecting on what God sees as beautiful.

I’m sharing this because to understand what God desires for us, WE need to have more insights on how HE thinks and what HE believes about us. So many focus on “fixing the outside.” What happens as a result, is the inside gets neglected. We can lose weight, gain muscles physically, and many more healthy habits, but IF we are not gifting to GOD the INSIDE, then WE cannot become truly FREE from any type of bondage or captivity.

The fact IS that the GOD who created US desires to ERASE, DESTROY, and REVERSE all the bad, ugly,negative, and EVIL in our lives. Yet how can WE walk in PURE FREEDOM, while rejecting HIS LOVE? The LOVE that truly reaches far past the ends of the earth, is the LOVE of God. It comes in SO many ways. In fact, there are countless ways that God sends HIS LOVE to us.

The LORD is WAY more concerned with your inside, than the outside.

http://www.openbible.info/topics/inner_beauty

1 Peter 3:3-4 ESV / 1,401 helpful votes

Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.

Song of Solomon 4:7 ESV / 1,011 helpful votes

You are altogether beautiful, my love; there is no flaw in you.

Proverbs 31:30 ESV / 846 helpful votes

Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.

Psalm 139:14 ESV / 658 helpful votes

I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.

1 Samuel 16:7 ESV / 542 helpful votes

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”

1 Peter 3:4 ESV / 477 helpful votes

But let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.

Proverbs 3:15 ESV / 438 helpful votes

She is more precious than jewels, and nothing you desire can compare with her.

2 Corinthians 4:16 ESV / 335 helpful votes

So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.

Proverbs 3:15-18 ESV / 195 helpful votes

She is more precious than jewels, and nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her; those who hold her fast are called blessed.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 ESV / 187 helpful votes

Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away.

Psalm 34:5 ESV / 171 helpful votes

Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 ESV / 129 helpful votes

He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, he has put eternity into man’s heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.

Proverbs 31:10-31 ESV / 121 helpful votes

An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life. She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands. She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar. …

1 Peter 3:1-6 ESV / 116 helpful votes

Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, when they see your respectful and pure conduct. Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands, …

Matthew 6:28 ESV / 114 helpful votes

And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin,

1 Peter 3:3 ESV / 101 helpful votes

Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—

Matthew 5:8 ESV / 100 helpful votes

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

Galatians 5:25 ESV / 71 helpful votes

If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.

Proverbs 31:25 ESV / 71 helpful votes

Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.

Romans 8:6 ESV / 67 helpful votes

For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.

Song of Solomon 4:9 ESV / 64 helpful votes

You have captivated my heart, my sister, my bride; you have captivated my heart with one glance of your eyes, with one jewel of your necklace.

Psalm 45:11 ESV / 64 helpful votes

And the king will desire your beauty. Since he is your lord, bow to him.

1 Corinthians 13:1-13 ESV / 56 helpful votes

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; …

1 Timothy 2:9-10 ESV / 50 helpful votes

Likewise also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but with what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works.

Ephesians 6:11 ESV / 45 helpful votes

Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.

Psalm 139:13 ESV / 41 helpful votes

For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb.

John 13:35 ESV / 40 helpful votes

By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Song of Solomon 2:2 ESV / 32 helpful votes

As a lily among brambles, so is my love among the young women.

Everything must happen first in the spirit. No matter how things appear, THEY always start there. So, it is important to remember WE are spirit beings first. Then, we have a soul and will. Not the other way around. Most often the focus gets skewed. When our focus is on Christ, our spirit becomes ONE with HIS. This happens through surrendering our will and soul to HIM. It is a choice, a VERY important one.

So many WE love dearly are struggling. Some of them know the truth, and for various reasons choose NOT to acknowledge it. Perhaps it is more comfortable living the lies. But, the point is the LIES will kill you. IT is just a matter of time, and the DEATH that comes without holy surrender leads only to eternal DEATH. I don’t know about you, but I would much rather have eternal LIFE.

Today, WE come and choose JESUS, the author and finisher of our FAITH. Today, WE reaffirm what was nailed to the cross, and even things we may have forgotten were there. Thank you LORD for taking our place, kissing our faces, and LOVING the Hell out. It is absolutely the HOLY escalator to Heaven, surrender.

Deep calls unto DEEP. Tears FALL as WE weep. YOU know the way, and WE choose THIS day, to pick up our nets again and  follow you. The enemy will bring no destruction that you cannot undo. WE worship you OUR KING.

As WE are obedient to HIM, HE will rain down Heaven or HELL. JESUS had to endure HELL to get HOME. In this regards, WE are no different. JUst think how much you are loved. It REALLY is overwhelming.

It is NOT too late. YOu can still choose to receive HIS LOVE.

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I honestly did NOT want to post this picture at first. But, I am doing so because I see a FIGHTER in this picture. I see a child who did NOT give up, she chose the way of FAITH, and RAN her race practically flawlessly, through Jesus. I see her in this photo, as asleep to the world and awakening MORE to Heaven. I am so honored that GOD loves her and us so much. Instead of sadness, when I see this picture it reminds me of COURAGE.

It absolutely takes courage to heal. It takes courage to BE REAL, and to FEEL at times. This child had nothing but HEAVEN in her when she went home. She took leaps of faith, every single day. I guarantee, that she still does. I am grateful for the example of JESUS in her. I am grateful for JESUS in David, and JESUS in ALL of our children. I am grateful for JESUS in me too. Without the reconnection, resurrections, and restorations of CHRIST in our lives. Without that, WE could not even breathe.

But, WITH the LOVE of GOD the FATHER united with HIS SON JESUS and the Holy Spirit, WE can REST easy. WE can not ONLY walk in FREEDOM, WE can speak it, and even BREATHE it, by HIS Grace, and in HIS GLORY. We speak forgiveness over those who do not understand, peace and blessings from HEAVEN to fall down. His Light to shine in the darkest places, and more to come and receive the victor’s crown.

http://www.metrolyrics.com/we-fall-down-lyrics-chris-tomlin.html

We fall down, we lay our crowns
At the feet of Jesus
The greatness of mercy and love
At the feet of Jesus

We cry holy, holy, holy
We cry holy, holy, holy
We cry holy, holy, holy
Is the Lamb

We fall down, we lay our crowns
At the feet of Jesus
The greatness of mercy and love
At the feet of Jesus

And we cry holy, holy, holy
We cry holy, holy, holy
We cry holy, holy, holy
Is the Lamb

Holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy, holy

We fall down, we lay our crowns
At the feet of Jesus
The greatness of mercy and love
At the feet of Jesus

And we cry holy, holy, holy
We cry holy, holy, holy
We cry holy, holy, holy
Is the Lamb

We cry holy, holy, holy
You are holy, holy, holy
We cry holy, holy, holy
Is the Lamb

Read more: Chris Tomlin – We Fall Down Lyrics | MetroLyrics

THIS angel in disguise had more to do elsewhere, and WE have more to do as well. The time has not ended, but A new space in time has been acquired. Let freedom RING indeed! Thank you mighty GOD for keeping our treasures safe. 🙂

“Overwhelmed”

I see the work of Your Hands
Galaxies spin in a Heavenly dance oh God
All that You are is so overwhelming

I hear the sound of Your Voice
All at once it’s a gentle and thundering noise oh God
All that You are is so overwhelming

I delight myself in You
Captivated by Your beauty
I’m overwhelmed, I’m overwhelmed by You

God, I run into Your arms
Unashamed because of mercy
I’m overwhelmed, I’m overwhelmed by You

I know the power of Your Cross
Forgiven and free forever You’ll be my God

All that You’ve done is so overwhelming
I delight myself in You
In the Glory of Your Presence
I’m overwhelmed, I’m overwhelmed by You

God, I run into Your arms
Unashamed because of mercy
I’m overwhelmed, I’m overwhelmed by You

You are Beautiful, You are Beautiful
Oh God, there is no one more Beautiful
You are Beautiful, God you are the most Beautiful

You are Wonderful, You are Wonderful
Oh God, there is no one more Wonderful
You are Wonderful, God You are the most Wonderful

You are Glorious, You are Glorious
Oh God, there is no one more Glorious
You are Glorious, God you are the most Glorious

http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/bigdaddyweave/overwhelmed.html
As much as MANY of us feel THIS way about HIM, HE also SEES us THIS way. He is overwhelmed by US. I pray THIS day someone can grasp this. GOD does not desire us to be bound by ANYTHING but HIS amazing and unfailing LOVE. The enemy cannot kill you, if THAT is what you cling to. GLORY!!!!!!!!! Take the LEAP of FAITH, and let GOD fly you into HEAVEN. The view is beyond CLEAR. It is so worth it! It is time for HIM to Erase, Destroy, and Reverse all that is in the way of HIS plans. Will you say yes?
In HIS Grace and GLORY,
E and Fam

 

 

 

 

25 Jan 2015

Wisdom, Retreat, Revelation

1459750_1000080833353916_2915999975910128314_n default-ds-photo-getty-article-69-96-136169256_XS Retreat-Canal-II wisdom wisdom-2Woke seeming a bit more fragile than I am used to. I don’t always know if my pain is mine today. But, I do absolutely KNOW that OUR pain is HIS. If i could always choose to be happy and joyful, I would. In fact, I usually do. I’m probably filled with more JOY than I ever have been. It is not dependent on things, or people. It is dependent on GOD.

I used to always write from JOY. I would not even attempt to do so, unless I was happy, or feeling complete. But, the problem with that is, I was basing it on emotions. I was not totally aware of that. But, am learning that GOD has called us to feel yes, but not be overcome by the feelings. Deeper levels of surrender. So much happening that is so tough to understand, or make sense of, in our world we live in.

Sometimes we must express from sorrow. Sometimes we CRY. No one is happy 100% of the time. Even God experiences what we do. He loves us so much, that He sent HIS son to walk through it all with us. Let’s take a look at the fruits of the spirit. Our emotions need to be grounded in HIS LOVE.

Galatians 5:22-23 Amplified Bible (AMP)

22 But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness,

23 Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [[a]that can bring a charge].

We’ve experienced some very difficult personal circumstances. But, do not keep focus on those. Like most, the enemy tries hard to distract us. Sometimes it appears to work, all be it temporarily. 😉 What ultimately happens is MORE surrender. Why? Because it is probably the greatest gift we can give to God.

It takes Wisdom from God to stay surrendered, to swim deeper into HIS world. Retreat from THIS world is also required. He says, “You must hate the world.” Now, that does not mean the people in it. It refers to the things of the world. Revelation arrives with more intimacy with God. If you desire more to know about your homeland, ASK.

Proverbs 24 Amplified Bible (AMP)

24 Be not envious of evil men, nor desire to be with them;

For their minds plot oppression and devise violence, and their lips talk of causing trouble and vexation.

Through skillful and godly Wisdom is a house (a life, a home, a family) built, and by understanding it is established [on a sound and good foundation],

And by knowledge shall its chambers [of every area] be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.

A wise man is strong and [a]is better than a strong man, and a man of knowledge increases and strengthens his power;

For by wise counsel you can wage your war, and in an abundance of counselors there is victory and safety.

Wisdom is too high for a [b]fool; he opens not his mouth in the gate [where the city’s rulers sit in judgment].

He who plans to do evil will be called a mischief-maker.

The plans of the foolish and the thought of foolishness are sin, and the scoffer is an abomination to men.

10 If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small.

11 Deliver those who are drawn away to death, and those who totter to the slaughter, hold them back [from their doom].

12 If you [profess ignorance and] say, Behold, we did not know this, does not He Who weighs and ponders the heart perceive and consider it? And He Who guards your life, does not He know it? And shall not He render to [you and] every man according to his works?

13 My son, eat honey, because it is good, and the drippings of the honeycomb are sweet to your taste.

14 So shall you know skillful and godly Wisdom to be thus to your life; if you find it, then shall there be a future and a reward, and your hope and expectation shall not be cut off.

15 Lie not in wait as a wicked man against the dwelling of the [uncompromisingly] righteous (the upright, in right standing with God); destroy not his resting-place;

16 For a righteous man falls seven times and rises again, but the wicked are overthrown by calamity.

17 Rejoice not when your enemy falls, and let not your heart be glad when he stumbles or is overthrown,

18 Lest the Lord see it and it be evil in His eyes and displease Him, and He turn away His wrath from him [to expend it upon you, the worse offender].

19 Fret not because of evildoers, neither be envious of the wicked,

20 For there shall be no reward for the evil man; the lamp of the wicked shall be put out.

21 My son, [reverently] fear the Lord and the king, and do not associate with those who are given to change [of allegiance, and are revolutionary],

22 For their calamity shall rise suddenly, and who knows the punishment and ruin which both [the Lord and the king] will bring upon [the rebellious]?

23 These also are sayings of the wise: To discriminate and show partiality, having respect of persons in judging, is not good.

24 He who says to the wicked, You are righteous and innocent—peoples will curse him, nations will defy and abhor him.

25 But to those [upright judges] who rebuke the wicked, it will go well with them and they will find delight, and a good blessing will be upon them.

26 He kisses the lips [and wins the hearts of men] who give a right answer.

27 [Put first things first.] Prepare your work outside and get it ready for yourself in the field; and afterward build your house and establish a home.

28 Be not a witness against your neighbor without cause, and deceive not with your lips.

29 Say not, I will do to him as he has done to me; I will pay the man back for his deed.

30 I went by the field of the lazy man, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding;

31 And, behold, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles were covering its face, and its stone wall was broken down.

32 Then I beheld and considered it well; I looked and received instruction.

33 Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep—

34 So shall your poverty come as a robber, and your want as an armed man.

This scripture is interesting for so many reasons. One reason is 24, is the Biblical number of Royal Priesthood. We are going to focus on just a few verses from this passage.

Through skillful and godly Wisdom is a house (a life, a home, a family) built, and by understanding it is established [on a sound and good foundation],

——— It is the wisdom of the LORD that establishes and builds a HOME. True, on earth and in Heaven, He provides wisdom to ALL who have repentant hearts, and who ask.———

And by knowledge shall its chambers [of every area] be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.

——–Whose knowledge is it? Is it man’s knowledge? NO! It is only the knowledge of CHRIST.——-

A wise man is strong and [a]is better than a strong man, and a man of knowledge increases and strengthens his power;

For by wise counsel you can wage your war, and in an abundance of counselors there is victory and safety.

—–Who makes us strong? JESUS. So, who is strong within? JESUS. It can be tough to find wise counsel in the world. But, the counsel of JESUS never leads us astray.——–

Wisdom is too high for a [b]fool; he opens not his mouth in the gate [where the city’s rulers sit in judgment].

——A wise person takes the problems, questions, and ideas to CHRIST.——–

Years ago, WE came to the revelation that the BOOKS we were taught from, carried many flaws. But, the HOLY BIBLE does not. Everything that is in HIS word has purpose. There is healing in HIS word and much FREEDOM resides there. As long as WE receive from HIS word by LOVE and not guilt, it will be a beautiful gift to open each day. It is by His Grace, LOVE, and peace that WE can learn more about Heaven. We don’t have to wait till we die physically to see His wonders. He is making them much more readily available to those who desire to SEE.

Would you rather stay where you are? Or, will you choose to FORGE forward as GOD moves you quickly to a new place? I have been faced with these questions. I have even gone to God about them. There was a part of me getting used to where we are. I wouldn’t say comfortable, but seeing it as a “new normal.” Though, I really do not adore that phrase. Anyway, I was reminded that when we get to a set place, is when God moves us.

That can be tough for many to process. For me, I am still learning to see it as an adventure. Sometimes, like others, I want to crawl into bed, and throw the covers over my head, and just quit. But, I don’t. I choose CHRIST instead. To accept the LOVE and cleansing, however deep God wants to go, is my responsibility and honor. Today, and everyday I ask God to open me up to Heaven. Knowing people may not understand, and likely persecution will heighten, I still have a hearts desire to know about my permanent HOME.

So, are you willing to give UP the comforts of this world? When you do, they are given back after they are surrendered. God cannot help but RESTORE. He cannot help but HEAL. The view from HEAVEN is indeed extraordinary. The battle wages within as well as on the outside. Yet, the WAR is won.

Yesterday I heard a story about a lady in Britain. She is doing a documentary on food, and how it affects people. When she spoke she was mean and cold. All I could think was, “She needs Jesus.” It does not matter how thin, fit, and in shape you are. That is just an outer shell. It matters where your heart is. THAT is the KEY to Heaven. Whom does your heart serve?

In His Grace and GLORY,

E and Fam

15 Jan 2015

What DREAMS may Come?

heaven-and-hell-300x225 5734371007_c47137bc23_z hell_and_heaven__by_mrnikosn-d6a2o6hWhat_Dreams_May_Come_G_01 imagesYears ago, there was a film I watched with this title. Recently, I watched it again, with my spouse.  I was always captivated by the story. I never knew that the reason I felt like that, was because I would participate very deeply. I remember at the time, crying ALL the way through it. I was a teenager, and some would call it hormones. But, there was so much MORE to it than that.

The film tells the story of a family. It is TORN apart by death and tragedy. I remember, even then, saying silently to God, “No matter what comes, I will choose you.” The family experiences both Heaven and Hell. For those who don’t believe in hell, I encourage you to ask God about it. He has shown us vivid images. There is an accident in the movie. The family has to deal with the ramifications. The father does what he can to be strong. But, as the mother grieves, she just can’t come out of the pain. Eventually, another tragedy hits, and then another.

I recall watching this film, and wondering something. I wondered. “Where is GOD in all of this?” I remember thinking how sad it all was. God is eluded to. But, it is distant, and cold. Then, later at the end, the main character goes to help his spouse. It reminded me of how GOD fights for us. He will make HIS bed in Sheol, if we choose to. He LOVES us that much.

So, today I ask this, where are your dreams rooted? Because, that is where they will be birthed from. They can arrive from Heaven or Hades. They can be a blessing, or a hindrance. Are your dreams to help and heal? Or, are the dreams to control and manipulate? Who is the master in your life? Because, if it is you, anyone else, stuff, emotions, or other “mini gods”; then it won’t be coming to you from Heaven.

Not everyone understands our family. We do NOT move unless God okay’s it. Meaning, if God says not to participate with something, we don’t. No matter how man reacts, or what persecution comes, we follow the ways of the LORD. We live and function by and through HIS peace and REST. This means WE do NOT dwell on hell. It means, we live from Heaven and we surrender deeper to our KING each day. This is not done from a place of religion, but relationship. It is accomplished, only through reverence and respect, as well as repentance before our God.

Our lives do not revolve around anything but the Heavenly Father, His son Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. We love from a distance, when necessary and are used to people telling lies, blaming us, and criticizing our choices. Why? Because, we will never be greater than Jesus. The closer we get to HIM, the more FIRE we experience.

WE LOVE what was in our life, but we lay it down for the GLORY of God. Because, the fact is, if we don’t then it can hinder HIS plans. WE want to be a blessing to GOD. Some say, that we are a blessing because we exist. That is true, but surrendered repentant hearts, are a GLORY blessing. Those children of God, seek to work, breathe, and move ONLY by His hand and commands. We LOVE what is, and WE LOVE what will be. For HIS faithful ones, good things are coming.

 

http://www.openbible.info/topics/heaven_and_hell

Romans 2:6-8 ESV / 125 helpful votes

He will render to each one according to his works: to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life; but for those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, there will be wrath and fury.

Revelation 21:8 ESV / 95 helpful votes

But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.”

Revelation 21:1-27 ESV / 78 helpful votes

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”

Hebrews 9:27 ESV / 46 helpful votes

And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment,

Matthew 25:41 ESV / 33 helpful votes

“Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.

Revelation 20:10 ESV / 32 helpful votes

And the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur where the beast and the false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.

1 Peter 3:18-22 ESV / 26 helpful votes

For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison, because they formerly did not obey, when God’s patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water. Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 ESV / 25 helpful votes

But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.

Romans 6:23 ESV / 25 helpful votes

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Matthew 25:46 ESV / 25 helpful votes

And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

John 3:13 ESV / 24 helpful votes

No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man.

John 14:2 ESV / 22 helpful votes

In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?

Revelation 20:14 ESV / 21 helpful votes

Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire.

James 2:20-24 ESV / 19 helpful votes

Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”—and he was called a friend of God. You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone.

Revelation 20:6 ESV / 14 helpful votes

Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection! Over such the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him for a thousand years.

Luke 23:43 ESV / 14 helpful votes

And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”

2 Thessalonians 3:6 ESV / 13 helpful votes

Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us.

John 13:36 ESV / 13 helpful votes

Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, where are you going?” Jesus answered him, “Where I am going you cannot follow me now, but you will follow afterward.”

John 3:5 ESV / 13 helpful votes

Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.

1 Corinthians 11:1-2 ESV / 12 helpful votes

Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. Now I commend you because you remember me in everything and maintain the traditions even as I delivered them to you.

Luke 13:3 ESV / 12 helpful votes

No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.

Psalm 16:11 ESV / 12 helpful votes

You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

1 John 5:16-17 ESV / 11 helpful votes

If anyone sees his brother committing a sin not leading to death, he shall ask, and God will give him life—to those who commit sins that do not lead to death. There is sin that leads to death; I do not say that one should pray for that. All wrongdoing is sin, but there is sin that does not lead to death.

1 John 3:2 ESV / 11 helpful votes

Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.

Romans 11:19-22 ESV / 11 helpful votes

Then you will say, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear. For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will he spare you. Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God’s kindness to you, provided you continue in his kindness. Otherwise you too will be cut off.

John 3:16 ESV / 11 helpful votes

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

Genesis 19:24 ESV / 11 helpful votes

Then the Lord rained on Sodom and Gomorrah sulfur and fire from the Lord out of heaven.

Revelation 19:20 ESV / 10 helpful votes

And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who in its presence had done the signs by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped its image. These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur.

2 Thessalonians 2:15 ESV / 10 helpful votes

So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by our spoken word or by our letter.

John 14:1 ESV / 10 helpful votes

“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.

John 6:58 ESV / 10 helpful votes

This is the bread that came down from heaven, not like the bread the fathers ate and died. Whoever feeds on this bread will live forever.”

Luke 16:1-31 ESV / 10 helpful votes

He also said to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a manager, and charges were brought to him that this man was wasting his possessions. And he called him and said to him, ‘What is this that I hear about you? Turn in the account of your management, for you can no longer be manager.’ And the manager said to himself, ‘What shall I do, since my master is taking the management away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. I have decided what to do, so that when I am removed from management, people may receive me into their houses.’ So, summoning his master’s debtors one by one, he said to the first, ‘How much do you owe my master?’

Mark 9:1-50 ESV / 10 helpful votes

And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God after it has come with power.” And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became radiant, intensely white, as no one on earth could bleach them. And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus. And Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.”

Matthew 7:13-14 ESV / 10 helpful votes

“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.

2 Timothy 4:7-10 ESV / 9 helpful votes

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing. Do your best to come to me soon. For Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia.

1 Corinthians 5:7 ESV / 9 helpful votes

Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.

1 Corinthians 1:10 ESV / 9 helpful votes

I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.

John 6:53 ESV / 9 helpful votes

So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.

John 4:24 ESV / 9 helpful votes

God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”

Luke 1:47-48 ESV / 9 helpful votes

And my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed;

Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV / 9 helpful votes

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Revelation 22:3 ESV / 8 helpful votes

No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him.

Revelation 21:1 ESV / 8 helpful votes

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more.

Revelation 3:20-21 ESV / 8 helpful votes

Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne.

Revelation 2:11 ESV / 8 helpful votes

He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.’

James 2:25-26 ESV / 8 helpful votes

And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead.

As a child, I thought it would be so fun to have a big house and kids. I remember thinking about how “fun” it would be to have money and stuff. I remember also thinking about “fame” and just how “fun” that would be. Then, I got older. Eventually, I had the big house and kids. I loved them and appreciated them, but when asked to walk away from it all, I did. How was that possible, when most of the world is “drunk” on all this stuff? It is very simple. It had to be done, and it blessed God. The world is amused by “dark culture.” The kids and teens often are enamored by fame, stuff, and money. But, the truth is, ALL of that, is a pathway to evil, and more evil, without JESUS. Not, the jesus the world tries to sell you. Jesus Christ of Nazareth, is the ONLY way, truth, life and LIGHT.

God has always taught us, that HIS ways are so VERY different from the world. That, without the mind of Christ, WE cannot even fathom the ways of God. Life is messy, and often we feel like we want to runaway. But, the ONLY place safe to run to is to God. It is the place, WE will NOT get judged, and we will get loved on. Why do people reject God? Because their dreams are self motivated. Because, they are so afraid that their needs will not get met, and they do everything possible to “Play God” and make them happen. Forgive us Lord.

What dreams are coming from and for you? Are you dreaming of darkness disguised as light? Or are you dreaming of Heaven, and HOPE? Because, whatever you focus on, will eventually arrive. Your heart, soul, mind, and spirit, and emotions are designed to work as one. THIS can only happen when ALL is surrendered to God. Often, God will permit what we think we want, so that when we get what we actually do, we will appreciate it. Remember, it is ONLY a test.

God never fails, He never leaves us of forsakes us, and as LONG as we stay surrendered before HIM, WE will always pass with flying colors. The rainbow is behind the clouds, and I am dreaming of HEAVEN. What about you?

 

 

 

06 Jan 2015

The Glory Gate

When I was told I was going to write this, I was a bit well, out of it. I mean, I could still hear the instructions, but I wondered how? I guess, more specifically I wondered, HOW can I share THIS with the world? My thoughts were, “They already hate me, and pretend they love me, or Jesus in me, so why even bother?” Of course, then I took that to GOD and He had a simple answer. He said, “Because I said so.” I cannot argue with that. What the LORD says goes, must GO!
I was thinking about people that I admire today, and I thought about my mother, my aunt Kay, and my sister Robin Main. But, what I really admire about these lovely ladies, is JESUS. It is how JESUS shines. Words often escape me about certain topics. I know, that may be tough to understand, with my call to writing. But, writing is different. Somehow I have an intimacy with GOD, to be able to put HIS thoughts and perceptions into print. When I speak, sometimes I stumble over what I desire to say.
When I hear others speak, I often prepare for WAR. I have not experienced a wealth of kindness. I’m not saying no one cared, but the tangible LOVE was so often missing. I had to become so broken, that through the unending, undying Heavenly LOVE of God, I could be made whole. You may have heard this in a blog before; HE breaks us down to feed us to the multitudes. Like the feeding of the 5,000, WE are fed to the world. We become nourishment or malnourishment. We can speak LIFE or DEATH.
Sometimes, for various reasons we speak from pain. I don’t like to do that. Sometimes, I have trouble biting my tongue, and hearing the things of THIS world. They hurt my ears. I thought,” I doubt I am the ONLY one who battles this.” I thought about the sisters and mothers I admire. I know, for a fact, they have the same battles. So, why is it so hard to help each other?
Well, what I am learning is EVERY person is a puzzle piece to God’s holy tapestry. It may be a small piece or one that completes a FULL area. But, ever single CHILD is important and has a VERY specific purpose. These ladies, I have seen humbled. My mother often was overlooked so others could succeed. My aunt lost her spouse at a young age, and had children. She later remarried, and has been very blessed by God with lots of LOVE to give, and receive. Robin is used to run a farm, and a ministry. I can GLEAN from them all. In their own ways, they receive the LOVE from GOD and of God.
Part of walking through the GLORY gate is forgetting what lies behind, and running the race. When I look at these amazing Godly women, I see a well run race for each. There were and are times of great difficulty, and opposition, but none of them quit. They surrender to God, but do NOT quit. I thank GOD for the legacy of these Heavenly women. It is honor to be part of the gift of learning from JESUS in them. Even though, my mom went home in 2000, I still learn from her. I hope and pray that what God uses me and our family to do, is a blessing to ALL, especially these precious ladies.
This is not taking the direction I expected. In fact, NOTHING I do through the LORD, ever does. But, what I am continuing to learn is, sometimes and most times the direction HE takes it, is so much better. In the LONG run, it always is. But, that does not mean that it doesn’t hurt like HELL to experience full throttle. I thought about RUTH and Naomi. I truly was reflecting on the story. I could not help but remember it being Sarah Elizabeth’s favorite. These ladies were Ruth and Naomi to me. They still are such a gift, and because I treasure it, I don’t always know what to say. I have always been good at giving and horrible at receiving. Not that I can’t be corrected, but even the good stuff is very tough for me to receive. Why? Because I guess, I just do not understand it.
But, how can WE fathom the GLORY?Even when we enter into it, if we don’t take time to appreciate it, we will MISS the gifts. I had a vision of a pile of dirt. It was just an ordinary pile. On the surface it looked like every other one. But, underneath was buried the most beautiful rare jewel. I believe GOD is saying, under the pain is the wholeness. Also, it takes dirt to fertilize the ground. His GLORY is MESSY. Oh, how MESSY it is. I asked the LORD, “How do people get expanded vision, dreams and more?” He said, “These things come with intimacy in and with me. I require FULL surrender. Half way will not cut it in the KINGDOM of Heaven.”
So, I ask today for you to think about special gifts GOD has given to you. The most precious WOMAN I have ever known is Sarah Elizabeth Sharpe. I know she was 4 days shy of 8 years old. But, TRUST me when I tell you, she knows and knew secrets to Heaven that some will never know until they go through the HOLY gates. Even now, she still is used to LOVE me through things, and to remind me how LOVED I am. She may have been a child, but because of her being an angel, she had insights that others cannot fully even grasp.
I thank GOD for the gifts of HIS children. I thank God for bringing precious Rubies into our lives. I thank GOD for LOVING me and US more than I can comprehend. I am grateful for each fight, hurt, JOY, lesson, gift, blessing, and pain. HE brings the JOY, PAIN, SONSHINE and RAIN. This flower will BLOOM again. Winter will thaw, and FREEDOM will reign. The enemy doesn’t have a prayer with JESUS at the helm. I know this, but sometimes forget. I thank GOD that just as much as He is fighting for me, HE is fighting for HIS other COGS. I thank GOD that victory arrives through LOVE. Sometimes it takes walking away, and just breathing in JESUS to be able to come back and fight again.
The GLORY gate entry requires FULL and consistent surrender. Some never get there until they are home in Heaven for good. A song kept coming to me, as I thought of ALL these women, and myself. As I think about the men who are amazing as well, it still resonates.
This warrior is a child
BY: Twila Paris
Lately I’ve been winning battles left and right
But even winners can get wounded in the fight
People say that I’m amazing
Strong beyond my years
But they don’t see inside of me
I’m hiding all the tears

They don’t know that I go running home when I fall down
They don’t know who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and cry for just a while
‘Cause deep inside this armor
The warrior is a child

Unafraid because His armor is the best
But even soldiers need a quiet place to rest
People say that I’m amazing
Never face retreat
But they don’t see the enemies
That lay me at His feet

They don’t know that I go running home when I fall down
They don’t know who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and and cry for just a while
‘Cause deep inside this armor
the warrior is a child

They don’t know that I go running home when I fall down
They don’t know who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and look up for a smile
‘Cause deep inside this armor
Deep inside this armor
Deep inside this armor
The Warrior is a Child

Read more: http://artists.letssingit.com/twila-paris-lyrics-warrior-is-a-child-dcc26pg#ixzz3NJJ9zPnR 
LetsSingIt – Your favorite Music Community
I played this song, shortly before our only child then, took her last breath on earth. I play it now, thanking GOD for ALL the memories, we could have missed. But, WE did not miss them, and each is a beautiful treasure in HIS holy treasure box.
For every single precious moment, and EVERY hug and kiss. I cry, and I thank HIM that the mourning time in many ways is done. Hard to say, but I know the victory is won. He needs ALL of me, even what was. Because, He said so. Even when I do not know, or understand. He reaches out HIS hand, saying please come with me. I died so you could LIVE FREE. I know it is tough,  but think how rough it will be if you hold onto this. You cannot resist release. My captives must be freed. There is responsibility and VERY deep needs. I trust you. I love you MY CHILD. You are a treasure to me, ALWAYS. I am not a little while GOD. I never walk away, I STAY. I never fail, I never falter I just LOVE you through the trials. Because you are mine. My precious one. I know you hurt, and I do too. But, there was no other way. Deep within you always knew. It wasn’t a shock to your spirit, just your flesh. Your heart was prepared, much more than you know. Eventhough you did not want to let go. Now, it is time to love him anyway. It is time to say okay. To no longer speak in anger, and HUG when all hell breaks loose. It will be MY love that conquers, and hangs the enemy with his own noose. My eagles are flying, and no matter what they think. They cannot shoot them down. You WEAR the holy crown, and it will cause defeat. The enemy is terrified, and quaking in his feet. For there is a landslide in the camp of the betrayers. The Heavenly warriors are coming. THEY are dragon slayers. So, be encouraged, because all the hurts will heal. ALL will see how REAL I am. SOon, and VERY SOON. GLORY.
LIVE FREE
http://www.openbible.info/topics/being_a_women_of_god_

1 Peter 3:3-6 ESV / 85 helpful votes

Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands, as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening.

Proverbs 31:20 ESV / 66 helpful votes

She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.

1 Peter 3:15 ESV / 51 helpful votes

But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,

1 Thessalonians 5:11 ESV / 33 helpful votes

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.

Proverbs 31:28 ESV / 32 helpful votes

Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:

Philippians 4:13 ESV / 31 helpful votes

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:6 ESV / 31 helpful votes

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

Ephesians 5:1-33 ESV / 31 helpful votes

Therefore 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. But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.

Isaiah 58:11 ESV / 29 helpful votes

And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.

Ephesians 5:16 ESV / 27 helpful votes

Making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.

Psalm 20:4 ESV / 27 helpful votes

May he grant you your heart’s desire and fulfill all your plans!

Jeremiah 17:7-8 ESV / 25 helpful votes

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.”

Isaiah 40:28-31 ESV / 25 helpful votes

Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

Ephesians 4:29 ESV / 24 helpful votes

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.

Ephesians 4:25-32 ESV / 23 helpful votes

Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil. Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need. Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.

Proverbs 14:1-35 ESV / 23 helpful votes

The wisest of women builds her house, but folly with her own hands tears it down. Whoever walks in uprightness fears the Lord, but he who is devious in his ways despises him. By the mouth of a fool comes a rod for his back, but the lips of the wise will preserve them. Where there are no oxen, the manger is clean, but abundant crops come by the strength of the ox. A faithful witness does not lie, but a false witness breathes out lies.

1 Peter 3:1-22 ESV / 21 helpful votes

Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, when they see your respectful and pure conduct. Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands,

1 Chronicles 16:11 ESV / 20 helpful votes

Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually!

1 John 4:7 ESV / 19 helpful votes

Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.

Psalm 143:10 ESV / 19 helpful votes

Teach me to do your will, for you are my God! Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground!

Philippians 2:14 ESV / 17 helpful votes

Do all things without grumbling or questioning,

Hebrews 10:23-24 ESV / 16 helpful votes

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works,

Titus 2:1-15 ESV / 16 helpful votes

But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine. Older men are to be sober-minded, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, and in steadfastness. Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.

2 Timothy 2:20-21 ESV / 16 helpful votes

Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honorable use, some for dishonorable. Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work.

Matthew 6:33 ESV / 16 helpful votes

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Proverbs 14:1 ESV / 16 helpful votes

The wisest of women builds her house, but folly with her own hands tears it down.

1 Timothy 6:10 ESV / 15 helpful votes

For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 ESV / 15 helpful votes

Pray without ceasing,

1 Thessalonians 5:15 ESV / 14 helpful votes

See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone.

Psalm 139:14 ESV / 14 helpful votes

I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.

Philippians 3:14 ESV / 13 helpful votes

I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
images King-of-Glory Who-is-the-king-of-glory
I hope this entry has been a blessing to all who read it. JESUS will put the enemy to flight, and I am going to let HIM. I don’t know about you, but it is TIME for us. The WAR is WON.
In His Grace and Glory,
E and Fam

 

01 Jan 2015

The DAY the WORLD stopped TURNING

On December 23, 2013 OUR world stopped turning. It seemed like ALL the lights went out. THERE was ONLY darkness, yet NEW Glorious LIGHT appeared. It did not stop turning forever. I thought about the Crucifixion of Christ. When JESUS was nailed to the cross, HE took on HELL and won. Think about this for a moment. GOD the FATHER, JESUS HIS son and even the holy spirit were there on the cross. Let me explain. What happens in the natural, happens in the spirit first. So, in this case in the spirit the Heavenly Father and Holy Spirit were present. Jesus, in the spirit and natural, was crucified. Our daughter had a similar experience.

http://www.openbible.info/topics/the_world_ending

Matthew 24:36 ESV / 35 helpful votes

“But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only.

Matthew 24:44 ESV / 19 helpful votes

Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.

1 John 5:19 ESV / 10 helpful votes

We know that we are from God, and the whole world lies in the power of the evil one.

Matthew 24:42 ESV / 9 helpful votes

Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.

Matthew 24:13 ESV / 9 helpful votes

But the one who endures to the end will be saved.

Galatians 1:4 ESV / 6 helpful votes

Who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father,

John 3:16 ESV / 6 helpful votes

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

Luke 21:36 ESV / 6 helpful votes

But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

Romans 13:11 ESV / 5 helpful votes

Besides this you know the time, that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed.

Matthew 24:3 ESV / 5 helpful votes

As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the close of the age?”

Deuteronomy 4:24 ESV / 5 helpful votes

For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.

Exodus 7:1 ESV / 5 helpful votes

And the Lord said to Moses, “See, I have made you like God to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron shall be your prophet.

Revelation 22:14 ESV / 4 helpful votes

Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life and that they may enter the city by the gates.

Revelation 1:8 ESV / 4 helpful votes

“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”

2 Peter 3:3-4 ESV / 4 helpful votes

Knowing this first of all, that scoffers will come in the last days with scoffing, following their own sinful desires. They will say, “Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation.”

Acts 17:30-31 ESV / 4 helpful votes

The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.”

Acts 3:15 ESV / 4 helpful votes

And you killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead. To this we are witnesses.

Acts 2:38 ESV / 4 helpful votes

And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

John 17:20-22 ESV / 4 helpful votes

“I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one,

John 1:14 ESV / 4 helpful votes

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Matthew 24:22 ESV / 4 helpful votes

And if those days had not been cut short, no human being would be saved. But for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short.

Matthew 3:11 ESV / 4 helpful votes

“I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.

Daniel 7:28 ESV / 4 helpful votes

“Here is the end of the matter. As for me, Daniel, my thoughts greatly alarmed me, and my color changed, but I kept the matter in my heart.”

Isaiah 52:1-15 ESV / 4 helpful votes

Awake, awake, put on your strength, O Zion; put on your beautiful garments, O Jerusalem, the holy city; for there shall no more come into you the uncircumcised and the unclean. Shake yourself from the dust and arise; be seated, O Jerusalem; loose the bonds from your neck, O captive daughter of Zion. For thus says the Lord: “You were sold for nothing, and you shall be redeemed without money.” For thus says the Lord God: “My people went down at the first into Egypt to sojourn there, and the Assyrian oppressed them for nothing. Now therefore what have I here,” declares the Lord, “seeing that my people are taken away for nothing? Their rulers wail,” declares the Lord, “and continually all the day my name is despised.

Psalm 82:1-8 ESV / 4 helpful votes

A Psalm of Asaph. God has taken his place in the divine council; in the midst of the gods he holds judgment: “How long will you judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked? Selah Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” They have neither knowledge nor understanding, they walk about in darkness; all the foundations of the earth are shaken.

She adores CHRIST. I mean, truly, HE is her brother. Even while present naturally with us, she would just look to JESUS. I told her one day, “You can ask the Father too or the holy spirit.” But, she just kept clinging to Jesus. I know she loves the FATHER, and also the holy spirit. She just kept coming back to JESUS. It was and IS such a beautiful example. For years, I had asked the Heavenly Father to reconnect me to Jesus. somewhere along the way, there was a disconnect. I can actually share when it was. I was 7 1/2 years old.

Isn’t that interesting that our daughter went home to Heaven, at the exact same age I was? That has yet to escape me. Guess how I got disconnected? I was in the bathtub and there was a razor on the tub. For whatever reason, and obviously influenced by evil, I picked it up and cut my tongue. I was so ashamed. I immediately felt guilty, told my mom and didn’t think about it again. Then at 14 1/2 I cut again. Why did I cut? Well, there was definitely evil influences. But, it REALLY goes way deeper.

 

I had been called to the prophetic. I could always see and sense things that most thought ODD or downright crazy. It was tough as a child. I always felt like I was going insane. In fact, many, added to that. But, they were just enemy puppets. Many still are. 🙁 I just LOVE, even from a distance. I forgive, because I am called to, and it honors God. I now understand what drove me to wanting to hurt myself. Even more, the forgiveness from God for my repenting has been a gift, and also freedom from those evils.

It is so hard, at times to tell the story. Especially, as more elaborate details get revealed. My life is not my own. My story is not just mine. Me and JESUS are intertwined. I believe we always have been, it is just WAY more obvious now. I am so grateful God loved and LOVES us enough to trust us with His angel. I mean, she was used by HIM, to reconnect a disconnect WE had. We knew about Jesus, loved HIM even, but could never quite receive fully the LOVE of GOD. It took until Sarah Elizabeth was born, for me to really DIG deep into GOD. I realized I had a responsibility as a parent. Both my husband and I came to this realization. COvered in the Grace Of God, we exist.

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I cannot say enough how grateful I am for the lessons. EVen the HARD excruciating lessons, have purpose. God truly does use what was meant to devestate and destory to rebuild and resurrect. That should have been devastate and destroy. But, destory is interesting, because de means to take away. So, the enemy wants to kill our story. But, He cannot when we are in CHRIST. It is IMPOSSIBLE for the enemy. I will give the enemy no glory in our lives. Absolutely ALL GLORY goes to GOD alone.

Beth Moore has an Esther study. I was doing it when Butterfly went into the hospital. Anyway, in it she says, “think about the worst thing that could happen to you. Your greatest fear. What if ________________________________________________________ happened?” Then she tells everyone, “Then GOD.” I remember wanting to throw my book across the room. It was around that time that my spirit began to be awakened to what was to come.

I am only sharing a potion of the story. IT is a VERY LONG one. Our daughter was used to do a lot in 8 years. So were we, by God’s Grace. I am thankful, more than anything. I have NO REGRETS and if asked, would endure it again, but I believe God won’t take us down that path. He is a merciful God. Nonetheless, HE is faithful.

In His Grace,

E and Fam

27 Dec 2014

SATURATION of HEAVEN

I very rarely, if ever post 2 posts in a week. In fact, I cannot EVER recall a time where I was led to post a blog back to back. But, TIMES they ARE a changing indeed. Yesterday, WE went as a family out to run errands. Let’s just talk about how THAT went for a second. All I can do is laugh, NOW. But, yesterday the laughter was not at all consistent. It did, by God’s grace, come and go.

We started to leave, and the car was dead. I mean, dead as a doornail dead. Even, before, there was tension. I was really tired, and pushing through. Knowing I had a certain amount of energy to give. David started a project, and I was frustrated. Because, it took like an hour more than I expected. I was letting it go, and he came in the room because of something I had said.

It became a “heightened spiritual discussion.” Anyway, GOD cut it off, but, afterwards, when the car was stalled, it was tough not to be frustrated again. It was even MORE surrender. So, we waited, and prayed, and waited and prayed. Then, about an hour later, a RED truck drove in the house behind us. My husband was borderline angry, because he kept asking for help, and no one would help. So, the LORD led me to ask someone. I asked the man with the red truck. They helped us. We shared some of our testimony with them. God moved, and resurrected the truck…again. Not to mention resurrecting us.

We knew we were going into VERY dark territory. In fact, WE don’t often go to where HE sent us. WE went to a mall. There is obvious dark territory, like what some call “the hood.” I don’t say that because of any race, color, size, shape, or anything else. In fact, actually, that name came from a short cut of neighborhood. But, the malls have become a lot like just that. They are filled with people, influenced by such nastiness. But, sometimes in the midst of it all, there are lights. We got to participate in Jesus using us to light the dark. Plus, we got the bonus of seeing a few a long the way. 😉

We were led, as a family, to get names from the angel tree in a local mall. Our daughter got a boy around age 10, and we got a girl around age 8. Yesterday, after several tough days, WE all went out to get the presents. We got a few items that we were led to, and prayed a blessing over them. We dropped off the items, and as we did, were led to share some of our story/testimony. The LOVE of GOD brings compassion. Sarah Elizabeth’s life was nothing but LOVE.

We ask for prayer for a lady’s mom we met. I believe her name is Brenda, and she is battling that evil cancer demon. What was amazing to us, was how empty the mall was. The parking lot was not full like it used to be. I thought to myself, online shopping. People don’t want to meet with people like they did. Because, people are so wounded. We often hide behind computer screens, cell phones, and other electronic devices.

But, even though these things have come in as distractions, they have also been turned into beautiful gifts for many. GOd has used these for much restoration and deep healing. But, the tough part about God’s plan is that it is on HIS terms. When curses are affirmed to be broken. Purging of unholiness must happen. Are you letting GOD trim the fat? I don’t necessarily mean physical, but when the spiritual goes, the physical follows.

Today is the 23rd. At 1:15am this morning we celebrated 1 year of our daughter’s Heavenaversary. I remember when God led us to celebrate. WE are NOT celebrating DEATH, we are celebrating NEW LIFE. We are celebrating that death of this world does NOT stop true LOVE. It stirs it up!!!! Hallelujah for that! Who doesn’t need more of LOVE? Who does not need more of HEAVEN? I mean, it’s a no brainer. I want HEAVEN. I want everything that entails. Because it is MY HOME.

When WE ask for HEAVEN, we must then LAY down everything that we could ever imagine it is. GOD is a REAL DEAL GOD. Heaven does not compete. HELL does not stop competing. I just want to close with saying, WE are glad for Heaven. WE LOVE experiencing it. BUt, we at times miss what was, and thank GOD for the GRACE to have reflection through HIS holy mirror.

In His Grace and Glory,

E and Fam 1004097_672578022798647_818834619973558876_n 1509873_10151907729718579_49160892_n 1958119_595233557249951_5134660411809327399_n 10409591_555950121178295_2491996567656324842_n

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23 Dec 2014

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