**Just for you Eloise**
"Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross"...Hebrews 12:1&2
I read a story one time about a farmer's donkey that fell into a dry well-it has become my favorite story ever since. So this donkey fell into this well and cried pitifully for hours as the farmer tried to figure out what to do for his poor donkey. Finally, he concluded that the well was too deep, and it really needed to be covered up anyway. Besides, the donkey was old, and it would be a lot of trouble to get him out of the pit. The farmer decided that it was not worth trying to retrieve the animal, so he asked his neighbors to help him fill in the well and bury the donkey.
They all grabbed shovels and began to toss dirt into the well. The donkey immediately realized what was happening, and he began to bray horribly. Crying would be our normal response if somebody was mistreating us this badly, or giving up on us, so this donkey was responding the same way we would at first, but then he got real quiet. A few shovel loads of dirt later, the farmer looked down the well and was astonished at what he saw. With every shovel of dirt that hit the donkey's back, the donkey would shake it off and step on top of it! As the neighbors and the farmer continued to shovel dirt on top of the donkey, he continued to shake it off and take a step up. Pretty soon the donkey shook off the last shovel full of dirt, took a step up and walked right out of the well! I can't even tell you how much this story has impacted me... I know that we can all learn from this... When trouble comes our way, if we can learn to get still and listen to Gods voice, He will tell us what to do.
By the grace and mercy of God, I have been able to shake off a lot of things in my life that have brought me hurt, pain, suffering, tears etc. Before my relationship matured in Christ-I wasn't able to do this. My strength has come from God and Him alone. When I was younger and not as close to God-I'd sit in my saddness, in my troubled situation and feel hopeless-but God time and time again extended His hand, picked me up, set my feet on solid ground and now I'm forever changed. Lord, thank you for the hard times. Thank you for molding me and stretching my faith, I am grateful that with you by my side I can shake off anything that comes my way!! In Jesus powerful, awesome, glorious name-Amen and amen. I love you.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Thursday, October 22, 2009
When we are weak HE is strong.
"He heals the broken hearted and bandages their wounds." Psalm 147:3
"So don't worry, because I am with you. Don't be afraid, because I AM your God. I will make you strong and will help you; I will support you with my right hand that saves you." Isaiah 41:10
Deep down in my spirit I'm bothered. I've always had a burden for children, but here lately it's almost like unbearable I almost feel like I need to do something, but I ask myself what? It is beyond my ability to save every child that is or has been harmed, abused, or hurt. I watch the news and all it does is break my heart. There is without a doubt always a story or something terrible that has happened to a child. WHY? I look at my daughter every day and think who would want to hurt such a precious baby? I just don't understand...
Lord, you know how heavy my heart is. God- I don't understand so much that goes on in this world and maybe I'm not suppose to know everything, but I just pray your protection over every child in the universe as far as east to west north to south, send your angels concerning all of them God, they are so innocent, please cover them under your wings. This is my greatest desire.
It's been raining the last couple days. I love the rain, but only if I can stay in bed :) There is a strange thing about rain and what it does to me-I don't know why, but it has a way of making me sit and think. I get sleepy too, but I think and think so much when the weather is cloudy, gloomy or stormy. I naturally think 100 miles an hour as it is, but the rain makes me examine myself-makes me think about life, people, family, friends and where I'm headed in this life. Most of all-It makes me want Gods annointing to rain on me spiritually. I am so hungry for the Lord, I am never satisified. I guess that's a good problem to have, Jesus I love you.
During my break yesterday, I was lost in thought thinking I need to be more motivated during the challenging times when I'm burdened up to my neck because I never know when my words, my actions, or simply anything I do could be a turning point for someone around me. I like to post verses on my status's in Facebook or myspace as often as possible because I will never know if that is the only time people see any part of Gods word. What if someone stumbled across your personal belongings and found a verse or found something that impacted them, wouldn't it be amazing to stand before God at the end of your life and Him say, "Because of your small efforts, you created big results." and then He takes you by the hand to see the life that was changed because of Him of course, but also because of your obedient heart-Oh my stars, that blows my mind. This thought makes me refocus on my purpose on earth. It is to solely live for God, if I can do that then peace, happiness, joy, etc will surround me for He IS those things and so much more.
I am so excited about this Sunday! It will be my first day to be the new Sunday school teacher at my home Church (Christ the Rock) for 5th & 6th graders. Lord you know my hearts desires, My prayers are to make a difference in as many lives as possible, to reach out to these kids in sunday school, or even out in the community, to be a leader, to love them, to praise them when they do small things-big things-good things. I am so full of love for children I really do feel working in Childrens ministry is right where I need to be.
Lord, above all, thank you for the opportunity. Thank you that when I am weak you remain strong, YOU give me strength. Thank you for knowing me by name! Wow, who I am Lord that you would have a care in the world about me? BUT yet you do God, you are amazing, beyond words to describe- You guide me, protect me, you love me, you give me all that I need-I am forever grateful and in debt to you God. Anything I do, and everything I am may it be for your Glory. I love you Father. You are beautiful.
"So don't worry, because I am with you. Don't be afraid, because I AM your God. I will make you strong and will help you; I will support you with my right hand that saves you." Isaiah 41:10
Deep down in my spirit I'm bothered. I've always had a burden for children, but here lately it's almost like unbearable I almost feel like I need to do something, but I ask myself what? It is beyond my ability to save every child that is or has been harmed, abused, or hurt. I watch the news and all it does is break my heart. There is without a doubt always a story or something terrible that has happened to a child. WHY? I look at my daughter every day and think who would want to hurt such a precious baby? I just don't understand...
Lord, you know how heavy my heart is. God- I don't understand so much that goes on in this world and maybe I'm not suppose to know everything, but I just pray your protection over every child in the universe as far as east to west north to south, send your angels concerning all of them God, they are so innocent, please cover them under your wings. This is my greatest desire.
It's been raining the last couple days. I love the rain, but only if I can stay in bed :) There is a strange thing about rain and what it does to me-I don't know why, but it has a way of making me sit and think. I get sleepy too, but I think and think so much when the weather is cloudy, gloomy or stormy. I naturally think 100 miles an hour as it is, but the rain makes me examine myself-makes me think about life, people, family, friends and where I'm headed in this life. Most of all-It makes me want Gods annointing to rain on me spiritually. I am so hungry for the Lord, I am never satisified. I guess that's a good problem to have, Jesus I love you.
During my break yesterday, I was lost in thought thinking I need to be more motivated during the challenging times when I'm burdened up to my neck because I never know when my words, my actions, or simply anything I do could be a turning point for someone around me. I like to post verses on my status's in Facebook or myspace as often as possible because I will never know if that is the only time people see any part of Gods word. What if someone stumbled across your personal belongings and found a verse or found something that impacted them, wouldn't it be amazing to stand before God at the end of your life and Him say, "Because of your small efforts, you created big results." and then He takes you by the hand to see the life that was changed because of Him of course, but also because of your obedient heart-Oh my stars, that blows my mind. This thought makes me refocus on my purpose on earth. It is to solely live for God, if I can do that then peace, happiness, joy, etc will surround me for He IS those things and so much more.
I am so excited about this Sunday! It will be my first day to be the new Sunday school teacher at my home Church (Christ the Rock) for 5th & 6th graders. Lord you know my hearts desires, My prayers are to make a difference in as many lives as possible, to reach out to these kids in sunday school, or even out in the community, to be a leader, to love them, to praise them when they do small things-big things-good things. I am so full of love for children I really do feel working in Childrens ministry is right where I need to be.
Lord, above all, thank you for the opportunity. Thank you that when I am weak you remain strong, YOU give me strength. Thank you for knowing me by name! Wow, who I am Lord that you would have a care in the world about me? BUT yet you do God, you are amazing, beyond words to describe- You guide me, protect me, you love me, you give me all that I need-I am forever grateful and in debt to you God. Anything I do, and everything I am may it be for your Glory. I love you Father. You are beautiful.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
God gives us divine appointments
"God has chosen you and made you his holy people. He loves you. So always do these things: Show mercy to others, be kind, humble, gentle, and patient. Get along with eachother, and forgive each other. If someone does wrong to you, forgive that person because the Lord forgave you. Do all these things; but most important, love each other. Love is what holds you all together in perfect unity. Let the peace that Christ gives control your thinking, because you were all called together in one body to have peace. Always be thankful. Let the teaching of Christ live in you richly. Use all wisdom to teach and instruct each other by singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Everything you do or say should be done to obey Jesus your Lord. And in all you do, give thanks to God the Father, through Jesus." Colossians 3:12-17
What a beautiful morning God has given us today. These last couple weeks the tempature has really dropped, but today when I walked outside-it was just perfect. I am looking forward to taking Adalie to a pumpkin patch this weekend. I was worried about it being too cold, but a long sleeve T-shirt will be just fine. I'll make sure to take pictures and start posting them now that i've learned how to :) (Thanks Sister Teresa)
My work week flew by! I have had the best week at work so far. God is so wonderful and my successes are because of HIM. Yesterday I was sitting at my desk when the front office called me to greet a potential student that had just walked in. As I approached Miss Martha-she was about 55 years young :) very quiet, a little shy, but there was a gentleness about her-I can't explain it. I brought her into one of our interview rooms and she began to tell me about herself where she lived, where she moved from etc. She was so softspoken and honestly nothing about her at this point screamed "I'm in need of financial help" but yet, I sensed a financial burden, a broken heart, a desperate need of a blessing I can't explain the feeling I had. We hadn't spoke about any finances at this point but I was feeling God speak to me that whether I could enroll this student or not-I needed to help her in one way or another. I spoke back to the Lord and said "How God?" but there was no reply.
My mentor Regina came into the interview room with me when Miss Martha began ask about pricing. I started listening even closer. As she told her story of struggling the last few years I noticed she played with her hands a lot. Well that brought my eyes to see her nails weren't well taken care of and it was almost like she read my mind-as soon as I noticed her nails she looked at both Regina and I and said, "I don't even have the money to take care of my nails." I looked away immediately.
The reason Regina had come into the room was because I'm a Business and Techology enrollment counselor and Regina does Healthcare and Education. Miss Martha happened to want education information, so technically I didn't have to stay in the meeting; yet, she interested me so much I could not leave the room. She bgan telling us more about her struggles and I rememebered Gods voice-"in one way or another, help her." I thought well the meeting is almost over, I'll just run get my pursue then I'll write her a check?...But then I thought.. No that could make her feel a little embarrassed and before I could think any further my mouth opened and I said, "What are you doing after this?" Miss Martha looked at me so humbly and before she could answer I quickly said, "There is a nail salon next door I would like to pay for you to get your nails done." Miss Martha began to rejoice and praise God right there in the open in front of both Regina and I. There was no shame in what she was doing and did not care where she stood-the tears burst out of her eyes and of course at this point tears are rushing out of my eyes. I felt the joy she had-I felt her spirits being lifted and even if it was just a small thing I did-SHE felt God moving in her life and that above all was most important. God meant for Miss Martha and I to meet that day. It was a divine appointment scheduled from God so that Miss Martha could get encouraged again. I felt so great as I walked with Miss Martha down to the nail salon because she had allowed me to bless her but more than that-she had been such a blessing to me. As we arrived at the nail salon I told the guy at the register that I wanted to pay for whatever Miss Martha asked. She gave her request and I more than gladly paid. Miss Martha was glowing smiling ear to ear-looking around like she couldn't believe she was there-My heart was rejoicing with her more than she'll ever know. I turned to say goodbye to her and her sweet voice whispered in my ear as she held me-"May God bless you abundantly child. I'm going to tell everyone about you and what you've done." I gave her a smile, thanked her and before I walked out she asked, "One last thing what was your name?" "Esther", I replied-"Well what beautiful name" she said-with that I smiled, told her to have a wonderful day and walked out for lunch.
It was almost as if I were a child in a playground I wanted to skip along to my car I was so happy. My heart was doing sumersaults and I was just so joyful in the Lord. I'll never forget my divine appointment with Miss Martha.
Father keep your hand upon Miss Martha. Thank you for the opportunity to meet this servant of yours. She showed the fruits you speak of-your presence is so apparent in her life God. I wish to be as a quality of a Christian as Miss Martha is. The way she rejoiced in you Father showed me her dedication to you-that no matter where she is, Miss Martha stands for you. Bless her Lord, spiritually, financially, in any way she is praying to be blessed, bless her. In Jesus wonderful, mighty, and gracious name! Amen, and amen. Glory to you Father, have it all.
I love you.
What a beautiful morning God has given us today. These last couple weeks the tempature has really dropped, but today when I walked outside-it was just perfect. I am looking forward to taking Adalie to a pumpkin patch this weekend. I was worried about it being too cold, but a long sleeve T-shirt will be just fine. I'll make sure to take pictures and start posting them now that i've learned how to :) (Thanks Sister Teresa)
My work week flew by! I have had the best week at work so far. God is so wonderful and my successes are because of HIM. Yesterday I was sitting at my desk when the front office called me to greet a potential student that had just walked in. As I approached Miss Martha-she was about 55 years young :) very quiet, a little shy, but there was a gentleness about her-I can't explain it. I brought her into one of our interview rooms and she began to tell me about herself where she lived, where she moved from etc. She was so softspoken and honestly nothing about her at this point screamed "I'm in need of financial help" but yet, I sensed a financial burden, a broken heart, a desperate need of a blessing I can't explain the feeling I had. We hadn't spoke about any finances at this point but I was feeling God speak to me that whether I could enroll this student or not-I needed to help her in one way or another. I spoke back to the Lord and said "How God?" but there was no reply.
My mentor Regina came into the interview room with me when Miss Martha began ask about pricing. I started listening even closer. As she told her story of struggling the last few years I noticed she played with her hands a lot. Well that brought my eyes to see her nails weren't well taken care of and it was almost like she read my mind-as soon as I noticed her nails she looked at both Regina and I and said, "I don't even have the money to take care of my nails." I looked away immediately.
The reason Regina had come into the room was because I'm a Business and Techology enrollment counselor and Regina does Healthcare and Education. Miss Martha happened to want education information, so technically I didn't have to stay in the meeting; yet, she interested me so much I could not leave the room. She bgan telling us more about her struggles and I rememebered Gods voice-"in one way or another, help her." I thought well the meeting is almost over, I'll just run get my pursue then I'll write her a check?...But then I thought.. No that could make her feel a little embarrassed and before I could think any further my mouth opened and I said, "What are you doing after this?" Miss Martha looked at me so humbly and before she could answer I quickly said, "There is a nail salon next door I would like to pay for you to get your nails done." Miss Martha began to rejoice and praise God right there in the open in front of both Regina and I. There was no shame in what she was doing and did not care where she stood-the tears burst out of her eyes and of course at this point tears are rushing out of my eyes. I felt the joy she had-I felt her spirits being lifted and even if it was just a small thing I did-SHE felt God moving in her life and that above all was most important. God meant for Miss Martha and I to meet that day. It was a divine appointment scheduled from God so that Miss Martha could get encouraged again. I felt so great as I walked with Miss Martha down to the nail salon because she had allowed me to bless her but more than that-she had been such a blessing to me. As we arrived at the nail salon I told the guy at the register that I wanted to pay for whatever Miss Martha asked. She gave her request and I more than gladly paid. Miss Martha was glowing smiling ear to ear-looking around like she couldn't believe she was there-My heart was rejoicing with her more than she'll ever know. I turned to say goodbye to her and her sweet voice whispered in my ear as she held me-"May God bless you abundantly child. I'm going to tell everyone about you and what you've done." I gave her a smile, thanked her and before I walked out she asked, "One last thing what was your name?" "Esther", I replied-"Well what beautiful name" she said-with that I smiled, told her to have a wonderful day and walked out for lunch.
It was almost as if I were a child in a playground I wanted to skip along to my car I was so happy. My heart was doing sumersaults and I was just so joyful in the Lord. I'll never forget my divine appointment with Miss Martha.
Father keep your hand upon Miss Martha. Thank you for the opportunity to meet this servant of yours. She showed the fruits you speak of-your presence is so apparent in her life God. I wish to be as a quality of a Christian as Miss Martha is. The way she rejoiced in you Father showed me her dedication to you-that no matter where she is, Miss Martha stands for you. Bless her Lord, spiritually, financially, in any way she is praying to be blessed, bless her. In Jesus wonderful, mighty, and gracious name! Amen, and amen. Glory to you Father, have it all.
I love you.
Monday, October 12, 2009
What fruit are you producing?
God, I am so thankful for your word this morning. I'm thankful that you gave us your word to give us direction, find answers, remind us of our promises in you and learn your likes and dislikes. If there is anything I want in my life, it is to please you Lord. With everything I am, you know my hearts desires-I want to exalt YOU, lift YOUR name on high, and bring honor&glory to YOU. Empty all that I am, and fill me with everything you are. Jesus, I want to be just like you.
My goodness this weather is making me so sleepy. I woke up this morning and could barely see 5 ft in front of me, the fog was so thick. All weekend long it was drizzling, cloudy, and wet. Oh and cold! I do love the fall weather, I enjoy it being cool, but when it's cold..brrr just thinking about it makes me cold ha, I want to stay home, in bed with my sweats on or on the couch-have hot chocolate in my hand, cuddled with my husband watching a romantic comedy <3
Why do weekends go by so fast? My mother in law was here for the weekend and we had a great time :) When I got off work Friday night she was already home. The hubby grilled Steak, I cooked homemade mashed tators and veggies, it was delish :)- Saturday we took momma in law out to eat for lunch then went shopping for a Princess Party we were invitied to on Adalie's behalf. A sister from Church was celebrating her twins 4th birthday Princess style. We had a great time regardless of how cold I thought Adalie was. I kept chasing her around pulling her hoodie on her and Stephen was like "baby she's fiiineee!" I'm like "What? No she's not she's cold"-then we'd turn around and Adalie would be giggling, laughing, playing all over the place haha, I'm so protective with my little girl, but oh well at least I take good care of my muffin :)
Church on Sunday was such a powerful service from beginning to end. The music was on point, and not because my husband is on the worship team, but because Miss Audra has such a gift in leading us into Gods presence. She was so annointed you could feel Gods presence surrounding her as she sang to Him. I called it a mini "Hillsong Concert" ha-then following such an great worship, Pastor led us into the Word. And this is what he preached on. Galatians 5:16-25
16So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.
19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.
Pastor made a great example when he said some of us can't bear any fruit because our branches were dead. He said, we needed God to come in and restore that which was dead lest God take out the WHOLE tree and throw the tree in the fire. It's symbolic of course-we represent the tree. We are to the ones who bear the fruits in which we are called to. Love, peace, patience (that one I definitely need work on) and etc. I believe when we truly empty all we are and make our bodies Gods dwelling place-our outter doings will represent Christ. We should show forth the fruit that God has planted and rooted deep inside us. Pastor made an awesome point, He said "So many people call themselves Christians but their actions are not Christlike." He's right-what we say, what we do everything we are should represent Christ better yet should be like Christ. Pastor said, you want to know if a person is Christian or not listen to how they talk, listen to what they like to talk about watch how they carry themselves etc, because it's true- when you are so deep into God what is really dwelling inside of you, will speak, it will show.
One thing I look for in Pastors is what they preach, and my favorite thing about my Pastor is he preaches truth. I have noticed myself growing in Christ more and more since being taken under his wing so I'm very thankful we found Christ the Rock Church. Pastor if you're reading this, We love you very much and may God continue to use you for His Glory. You bless more people than you realize. We are so fortuante to have you as our Pastor.
Lord, you are everything I need, I love you but of course you already know that :)
Your daughter,
Est
P.s. Help me stay awake at work today! :)-
My goodness this weather is making me so sleepy. I woke up this morning and could barely see 5 ft in front of me, the fog was so thick. All weekend long it was drizzling, cloudy, and wet. Oh and cold! I do love the fall weather, I enjoy it being cool, but when it's cold..brrr just thinking about it makes me cold ha, I want to stay home, in bed with my sweats on or on the couch-have hot chocolate in my hand, cuddled with my husband watching a romantic comedy <3
Why do weekends go by so fast? My mother in law was here for the weekend and we had a great time :) When I got off work Friday night she was already home. The hubby grilled Steak, I cooked homemade mashed tators and veggies, it was delish :)- Saturday we took momma in law out to eat for lunch then went shopping for a Princess Party we were invitied to on Adalie's behalf. A sister from Church was celebrating her twins 4th birthday Princess style. We had a great time regardless of how cold I thought Adalie was. I kept chasing her around pulling her hoodie on her and Stephen was like "baby she's fiiineee!" I'm like "What? No she's not she's cold"-then we'd turn around and Adalie would be giggling, laughing, playing all over the place haha, I'm so protective with my little girl, but oh well at least I take good care of my muffin :)
Church on Sunday was such a powerful service from beginning to end. The music was on point, and not because my husband is on the worship team, but because Miss Audra has such a gift in leading us into Gods presence. She was so annointed you could feel Gods presence surrounding her as she sang to Him. I called it a mini "Hillsong Concert" ha-then following such an great worship, Pastor led us into the Word. And this is what he preached on. Galatians 5:16-25
16So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.
19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.
Pastor made a great example when he said some of us can't bear any fruit because our branches were dead. He said, we needed God to come in and restore that which was dead lest God take out the WHOLE tree and throw the tree in the fire. It's symbolic of course-we represent the tree. We are to the ones who bear the fruits in which we are called to. Love, peace, patience (that one I definitely need work on) and etc. I believe when we truly empty all we are and make our bodies Gods dwelling place-our outter doings will represent Christ. We should show forth the fruit that God has planted and rooted deep inside us. Pastor made an awesome point, He said "So many people call themselves Christians but their actions are not Christlike." He's right-what we say, what we do everything we are should represent Christ better yet should be like Christ. Pastor said, you want to know if a person is Christian or not listen to how they talk, listen to what they like to talk about watch how they carry themselves etc, because it's true- when you are so deep into God what is really dwelling inside of you, will speak, it will show.
One thing I look for in Pastors is what they preach, and my favorite thing about my Pastor is he preaches truth. I have noticed myself growing in Christ more and more since being taken under his wing so I'm very thankful we found Christ the Rock Church. Pastor if you're reading this, We love you very much and may God continue to use you for His Glory. You bless more people than you realize. We are so fortuante to have you as our Pastor.
Lord, you are everything I need, I love you but of course you already know that :)
Your daughter,
Est
P.s. Help me stay awake at work today! :)-
Friday, October 9, 2009
You are made to be a blessing.
This week has definitely been a rollercoaster. Some highs, some lows. Overall, I am complete in Christ and for that I am thankful that even when the low times roll around, HE has me in the palm of His hand and reminds me of His promises in my life.
It's not always easy to be working as a servant for the Lord. I mentioned to my husband a while back that even though i'm not working out of the Church in ministry just yet ;) , I am still ministering to lives and encouraging those around me to follow Christ. When God sees a willing heart, He uses you.
I've had many burdens on my heart lately from people calling/talking to me about not knowing what to do in their paticular situation; yet, they come to me for guidance. I'm so blessed with the opportunity to be able to help a person find their joy in life or a way out, but sometimes when God calls me to work for His Kingdom I feel like it's when I need a pat on the back, someones asking me to pat theirs. When I need a hug someones asking me to hug them, when I need to be encouraged, someone is asking me to lift them up-that's ministry to the T. It's exhausting, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I'm so thankful that when i'm at my lowest points in life, when i'm tired or weary Christ challenges me. Someone might say that's crazy to be thankful for that, but God stretches my faith, He squeezes more out of me when I don't think I have anything left He proves it is HE who works through me cause if it was my works I'd accomplish nothing and give up long before Christ ever would. Glory to you Father, you are so worthy of my praise.
God also reminds me," Esther, You were made to be a blessing." And if that is my only purpose in life, then I gladly accept it.
Genesis 12:2 says," I will bless you with abundant increase of favors and you will be a blessing dispensing good to others." Everytime you think anything good about anyone verbalize it-Joyce Meyer. I like that quote from Joyce because it is true, our thoughts have power and may affect others' confidence level in a minor way, but our words can really lift them up and encourage them. All people need affirmation especially those who have been emotionally wounded or hurt by someone. A very close sister in Christ has been battling with this very exact thing. She opened up to me recently and with positive words, encouraging words, and God's words spoken through me have helped deal with her burdens. God is so good, I tell ya. He moves in situations by what we speak. I encourage everyone to remind themselves what God says to me"YOU are made to be a blessing." Bless those around you with something small, something big, a few nice words, a friendly smile, more importantly show God's love. You'll never know how your words can change lives, break chains, move mountains, and break strong holds until you speak them, *In Jesus mighty name of course*
So Father, I thank you, I thank you for all the above, I thank you for living in me, for trusting me to work for you, and for loving me the way you do. Just as you speak encouraging words to me, help me continue to speak encouraging words to those around me. Help us all remember we are made to be a blessing.
I love you Jesus,
Esther
It's not always easy to be working as a servant for the Lord. I mentioned to my husband a while back that even though i'm not working out of the Church in ministry just yet ;) , I am still ministering to lives and encouraging those around me to follow Christ. When God sees a willing heart, He uses you.
I've had many burdens on my heart lately from people calling/talking to me about not knowing what to do in their paticular situation; yet, they come to me for guidance. I'm so blessed with the opportunity to be able to help a person find their joy in life or a way out, but sometimes when God calls me to work for His Kingdom I feel like it's when I need a pat on the back, someones asking me to pat theirs. When I need a hug someones asking me to hug them, when I need to be encouraged, someone is asking me to lift them up-that's ministry to the T. It's exhausting, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I'm so thankful that when i'm at my lowest points in life, when i'm tired or weary Christ challenges me. Someone might say that's crazy to be thankful for that, but God stretches my faith, He squeezes more out of me when I don't think I have anything left He proves it is HE who works through me cause if it was my works I'd accomplish nothing and give up long before Christ ever would. Glory to you Father, you are so worthy of my praise.
God also reminds me," Esther, You were made to be a blessing." And if that is my only purpose in life, then I gladly accept it.
Genesis 12:2 says," I will bless you with abundant increase of favors and you will be a blessing dispensing good to others." Everytime you think anything good about anyone verbalize it-Joyce Meyer. I like that quote from Joyce because it is true, our thoughts have power and may affect others' confidence level in a minor way, but our words can really lift them up and encourage them. All people need affirmation especially those who have been emotionally wounded or hurt by someone. A very close sister in Christ has been battling with this very exact thing. She opened up to me recently and with positive words, encouraging words, and God's words spoken through me have helped deal with her burdens. God is so good, I tell ya. He moves in situations by what we speak. I encourage everyone to remind themselves what God says to me"YOU are made to be a blessing." Bless those around you with something small, something big, a few nice words, a friendly smile, more importantly show God's love. You'll never know how your words can change lives, break chains, move mountains, and break strong holds until you speak them, *In Jesus mighty name of course*
So Father, I thank you, I thank you for all the above, I thank you for living in me, for trusting me to work for you, and for loving me the way you do. Just as you speak encouraging words to me, help me continue to speak encouraging words to those around me. Help us all remember we are made to be a blessing.
I love you Jesus,
Esther
Monday, October 5, 2009
3 years ago today....
I gave my heart away and said, "I do" to my one true love, Stephen Daniel Vanover. God, thank you for putting Stephen in my life. Thank you for the night he came across my path, thank you for being the center of our relationship, and thank you for giving us the opportunity to be parents to Adalie.
So I know you are all dying to to hear about the weekend, (got some impatient texts this weekend ha,) BUT I wanna go back to the day I met him.
Back in 2006 I was working as a waitress at the Olive Garden. I was moments from leaving when I reached inside my pocket to count my money for the evening. I had made a lot less than normal so I had asked my manager if he would please give me ONE more table to work. He said that was fine and then next thing I know the most beautiful person i've ever seen is sitting in my section. He was my ONE last table <3
Immediately I got nervous lol-to this day I know exactly what he was wearing & I think what did it was his little Yankee baseball cap ;) He looked so cute! I was all sweaty, and looked like i'd been....well ya working! Ha, so I made a fast dash to the girls room to "freshen up" When I got to his table to greet him & two other friends he was with-I swear he wouldn't even look at me! Haha, it's so funny to think back cause I seriously thought he had absolutely noooo interest until...the very end of the night I had gone to check them out and give them their debit cards back, I said goodbye and they made their way out the door. I went to pick up their tickets to put in my tip and saw his name & number at the bottom of his receipt! I was the happiest girl on earth I went to the kitchen and was like OMGOSH! He left his number (I had made all my co-workers go check him out cause I thought he was the hottest thing ever haha) The girls were so excited for me and were like call him right now! I was like no way-gotta make 'em wait hehe.
Ok, ok..I'll admit I couldn't make him wait that long cause I couldn't wait to talk to him! I sometimes think what would have happened if I would of just went home with the money I had and not said anything? Yikes, nevermind I don't wanna think about that LOL
I called him on my way home, we made a date to see eachother the next night and just like that-the rest was history <3
A few months later we brought up marriage- I just knew from the 3rd date on that he was the one. I told my family and friends and they were all so happy for me but also concerned cause I hadn't been so serious about anyone as I was Stephen. There was a guy I dated in High School that I thought I was in love with, and every boyfriend after him I just had a hard time staying with them for a long period. I thought it was pointless to try and date others when I still really liked my first boyfriend, so a month or two would go by and i'd break up with them. The only guy who healed my heart, who made me 100% completely move on and fall in love was Stephen. Gosh, I love him!
I love being Stephen's wife cause we are so much alike--(except for the whole hunting, fishing & video games stuff...well actually I am trying to work on getting into hunting cause I know he likes it so much I'm taking one for the team ha) But anyways, we finish eachothers sentences or what's even more freaky is we know what eachothers thinking! We love being a lot alike, but sometimes we can bump heads. It's pretty rare though, we were talking about it this weekend on our way to our date that it had been 3 years we'd been married right about now we are suppose to be getting annoyed with eachother haha? But seriously we don't, we are more in love each year that goes by-I give that praise to God because HE is the center of our marriage. HE is our glue that holds us so close together and honestly, we don't have a perfect marriage, but we have a pretty dern great one! I love you, Stephen.
I love my husband for many things, but the one thing I most love about him is the way he loves me. Ephesians 5:25 says, "Husbands, love your wife as Christ loves the Church." If we are to be like Christ, and if husbands are to love their wives as God loves his people then women should be treated with respect, love, praise, gratitude, not being taken advantage of etc. God is our ultimate example in everything we do-and I love Stephen above everything because of this. Because he is following God's word and loves me the way God loves his Church. He is a gentleman and never disrespects me, and in turn i'm submissive because number one God orders me to be and two because he makes it so easy to follow what he says-why? Because I trust his lead. Lord, I am so thankful for the man you've gave me, i'm forever grateful.
Friday night Stephen started complaining that he was feeling a little sick. His body hurt, he was coughing and he said his thoart hurt really bad. I was like aww baby, we totally don't have to do anything tomorrow (cause saturday we had a babysitter set up and him and I were going out for the day to just enjoy eachother)
I felt really bad and said I would not care if we just stayed home, being with him is all I cared about. With that we feel asleep. Saturday morning I'm laying in bed, he is downstairs already and i'm getting Adalie and I in the bath. When we get out and get dressed I smell something cooking coming down the stairs....Yah-he totally made me breakfast! How stinkin' sweet! He was so sick but it meant enough to him to wake up early and cook me my breakfast. Gosh, I love him!! So i'm like baby, you didn't have to! I wanted to, but he said go sit down. So of course we had our little breakfast, so cute :) then he said, I want to spend the day with you-so we decided to go on with our plans. We took Adalie to her babysitter (Brittany, she's awesome!) And off we went! Stephen drove me to the mall, ok come on, cook me breakfast and take me shopping, seriously? A man does two things they hate-cooking & shopping lol but yes, my baby did this for me. Nonetheless, we had a blast laughing, cutting up all day, spending our money lol ( He got some stinkin' cute outfits for church I might add) We went to Academy cause he likes hunting stuff & remember how I mentioned I was going to try to do more things he likes? Well I did see some super cute boots I want ha, never thought i'd say that, but I guess it's not so bad ya know I like that little country dressin'.
Well, after we shopped till we dropped we went to the Olive Garden. (we were suppose to go to Marble Falls to eat on the lake, but it rained all weekend) It's ok cause what was even more sweet is we went and ate at the exact same place we met 3 years ago and sat at the exact same section I was working the night we met!! Isn't that so cute! We spent the whole day talking about the last 3 years, kissing, laughing & just enjoying being together without the munchkin ha. We love her but it was so nice to be just us again <3
Church on Sunday was amazing as always. Did I mention my hubby is singing on the worship team? Well, yep-he sure is :) He lead worship and is was really neat to see him loving on God that way. After Church we took our Pastors out to eat and had a great time with them. I love our Pastors they are so sweet. They mentioned something to Stephen & I that we are both praying about, but i'll blog about that later, stay tuned ;)
Overall, I am on cloud 9 still from the weekend. I can't put into words how happy my little heart is. For now I better run, but thanks for stopping by! Be blessed!
Jesus, I love you!!! You are so good to me when I don't even deserve it! Thank you for giving me everything I have and even if you never gave me another thing i'd still love, praise, and worship you just for who you are <3 You are my everything.
Your daughter,
Esther :)
So I know you are all dying to to hear about the weekend, (got some impatient texts this weekend ha,) BUT I wanna go back to the day I met him.
Back in 2006 I was working as a waitress at the Olive Garden. I was moments from leaving when I reached inside my pocket to count my money for the evening. I had made a lot less than normal so I had asked my manager if he would please give me ONE more table to work. He said that was fine and then next thing I know the most beautiful person i've ever seen is sitting in my section. He was my ONE last table <3
Immediately I got nervous lol-to this day I know exactly what he was wearing & I think what did it was his little Yankee baseball cap ;) He looked so cute! I was all sweaty, and looked like i'd been....well ya working! Ha, so I made a fast dash to the girls room to "freshen up" When I got to his table to greet him & two other friends he was with-I swear he wouldn't even look at me! Haha, it's so funny to think back cause I seriously thought he had absolutely noooo interest until...the very end of the night I had gone to check them out and give them their debit cards back, I said goodbye and they made their way out the door. I went to pick up their tickets to put in my tip and saw his name & number at the bottom of his receipt! I was the happiest girl on earth I went to the kitchen and was like OMGOSH! He left his number (I had made all my co-workers go check him out cause I thought he was the hottest thing ever haha) The girls were so excited for me and were like call him right now! I was like no way-gotta make 'em wait hehe.
Ok, ok..I'll admit I couldn't make him wait that long cause I couldn't wait to talk to him! I sometimes think what would have happened if I would of just went home with the money I had and not said anything? Yikes, nevermind I don't wanna think about that LOL
I called him on my way home, we made a date to see eachother the next night and just like that-the rest was history <3
A few months later we brought up marriage- I just knew from the 3rd date on that he was the one. I told my family and friends and they were all so happy for me but also concerned cause I hadn't been so serious about anyone as I was Stephen. There was a guy I dated in High School that I thought I was in love with, and every boyfriend after him I just had a hard time staying with them for a long period. I thought it was pointless to try and date others when I still really liked my first boyfriend, so a month or two would go by and i'd break up with them. The only guy who healed my heart, who made me 100% completely move on and fall in love was Stephen. Gosh, I love him!
I love being Stephen's wife cause we are so much alike--(except for the whole hunting, fishing & video games stuff...well actually I am trying to work on getting into hunting cause I know he likes it so much I'm taking one for the team ha) But anyways, we finish eachothers sentences or what's even more freaky is we know what eachothers thinking! We love being a lot alike, but sometimes we can bump heads. It's pretty rare though, we were talking about it this weekend on our way to our date that it had been 3 years we'd been married right about now we are suppose to be getting annoyed with eachother haha? But seriously we don't, we are more in love each year that goes by-I give that praise to God because HE is the center of our marriage. HE is our glue that holds us so close together and honestly, we don't have a perfect marriage, but we have a pretty dern great one! I love you, Stephen.
I love my husband for many things, but the one thing I most love about him is the way he loves me. Ephesians 5:25 says, "Husbands, love your wife as Christ loves the Church." If we are to be like Christ, and if husbands are to love their wives as God loves his people then women should be treated with respect, love, praise, gratitude, not being taken advantage of etc. God is our ultimate example in everything we do-and I love Stephen above everything because of this. Because he is following God's word and loves me the way God loves his Church. He is a gentleman and never disrespects me, and in turn i'm submissive because number one God orders me to be and two because he makes it so easy to follow what he says-why? Because I trust his lead. Lord, I am so thankful for the man you've gave me, i'm forever grateful.
Friday night Stephen started complaining that he was feeling a little sick. His body hurt, he was coughing and he said his thoart hurt really bad. I was like aww baby, we totally don't have to do anything tomorrow (cause saturday we had a babysitter set up and him and I were going out for the day to just enjoy eachother)
I felt really bad and said I would not care if we just stayed home, being with him is all I cared about. With that we feel asleep. Saturday morning I'm laying in bed, he is downstairs already and i'm getting Adalie and I in the bath. When we get out and get dressed I smell something cooking coming down the stairs....Yah-he totally made me breakfast! How stinkin' sweet! He was so sick but it meant enough to him to wake up early and cook me my breakfast. Gosh, I love him!! So i'm like baby, you didn't have to! I wanted to, but he said go sit down. So of course we had our little breakfast, so cute :) then he said, I want to spend the day with you-so we decided to go on with our plans. We took Adalie to her babysitter (Brittany, she's awesome!) And off we went! Stephen drove me to the mall, ok come on, cook me breakfast and take me shopping, seriously? A man does two things they hate-cooking & shopping lol but yes, my baby did this for me. Nonetheless, we had a blast laughing, cutting up all day, spending our money lol ( He got some stinkin' cute outfits for church I might add) We went to Academy cause he likes hunting stuff & remember how I mentioned I was going to try to do more things he likes? Well I did see some super cute boots I want ha, never thought i'd say that, but I guess it's not so bad ya know I like that little country dressin'.
Well, after we shopped till we dropped we went to the Olive Garden. (we were suppose to go to Marble Falls to eat on the lake, but it rained all weekend) It's ok cause what was even more sweet is we went and ate at the exact same place we met 3 years ago and sat at the exact same section I was working the night we met!! Isn't that so cute! We spent the whole day talking about the last 3 years, kissing, laughing & just enjoying being together without the munchkin ha. We love her but it was so nice to be just us again <3
Church on Sunday was amazing as always. Did I mention my hubby is singing on the worship team? Well, yep-he sure is :) He lead worship and is was really neat to see him loving on God that way. After Church we took our Pastors out to eat and had a great time with them. I love our Pastors they are so sweet. They mentioned something to Stephen & I that we are both praying about, but i'll blog about that later, stay tuned ;)
Overall, I am on cloud 9 still from the weekend. I can't put into words how happy my little heart is. For now I better run, but thanks for stopping by! Be blessed!
Jesus, I love you!!! You are so good to me when I don't even deserve it! Thank you for giving me everything I have and even if you never gave me another thing i'd still love, praise, and worship you just for who you are <3 You are my everything.
Your daughter,
Esther :)
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Wednesday Night Church Service
As I sat in Church last night, our pastor told us we were going to be doing a series of studies over the Blood of Jesus and how much power it has. He said he had a story to share with us and I never thought how impacting it would be--It ripped my heart apart and as I sat in my puddle of tears, I silently thanked the Lord for giving His life for me. I can't put into words how I felt last night. I can't thank God enough, seriously. Here is the article:
PURE BLOOD
It's a Wednesday night and you are at a church prayer meeting when somebody runs in from the parking lot yelling, "Turn on a radio, turn on a radio!"And while the church listens to a little transistor radio with a microphone stuck up to it, the announcement is made: "Two women are lying in a Long Island hospital dying from a 'mystery' flu." Within hours it seems, this thing just sweeps across the country.People are working around the clock trying to find an antidote. Nothing isworking! California, Oregon, Arizona, Florida, Massachusetts.It's as though it's just sweeping in from the borders. And then, all of a sudden, the news comes out. The code has been broken. A cure can be found. A vaccine can be made. It's going to take the blood of somebody who hasn't been infected, and so, sure enough, all through the Midwest, through all those channels of emergency broadcasting, everyone is asked to do one simple thing: Go to your downtown hospital and have your blood type taken. That's all we ask of you. When you hear the sirens go off in your neighborhood, please make your way quickly, quietly, and safely to the hospitals. Sure enough, when you and your family get down there late on that Friday night, there is a long line, and they've got nurses and doctors coming out and pricking fingers and taking blood and putting labels on it. Your husband and your kids are out there, and they take your blood type and they say, "Wait here in the parking lot and if we call your name, you can be dismissed and go home."You stand around, scared, with your neighbors, wondering what in the world is going on and if this is the end of the world. Suddenly a young man comes running out of the hospital screaming. He's yelling a name and waving a clipboard. What? He yells it again! And your son tugs on your jacket and says, "Mommy, that's me."Before you know it, they have grabbed your boy. Wait a minute! Hold on! And they say, "It's okay, his blood is clean. His blood is pure. We want to make sure he doesn't have the disease. We think he has got the right type." Five tense minutes later, out come the doctors and nurses, crying and hugging one another ... some are even laughing. It's the first time you have seen anybody laugh in a week, and an old doctor walks up to you and says, "Thank you. Your son's blood type is perfect. It's clean, it is pure, and we can make the vaccine." As the word begins to spread all across that parking lot full of folks, people are screaming and praying and laughing and crying.Then the gray-haired doctor pulls you and your husband aside and says, "May we see you for moment? We didn't realize that the donor would be a minor and we need ....... we need you to sign a consent form." You begin to sign and then you see that the number of pints of blood to be taken has been left blank."H-how many pints?", you ask. And that is when the old doctor's smile fades and he says, "We had no idea it would be little child. We weren't prepared. I'm sorry ma'am, we need it all!""But but .. You don't understand.""We are talking about the world here. Please sign. We need it all!""But can't you give him a transfusion?""If we had clean blood we would. Can you sign? Would you sign?"In numb silence, you do. Then they say, "Would you like to have a moment with him before we begin?"Can you walk back? Can you walk back to that room where your child sits on a table saying, "Daddy? Mommy? What's going on?" Can you take his hands and say, "Son, your daddy and I love you, and we would never ever let anything happen to you that didn't just have to be. Do you understand that?"And when that old doctor comes back in and says, "I'm sorry, we've GOT to get started! People all over the world are dying. Can you leave?"Can you walk out while he is saying, " Mommy? Daddy?" Why, why have you forsaken me?"And then next week, when they have the ceremony to honor your son some folks sleep through it ... some folks don't even come because they go to the lake or the seashore ... some folks come with a pretentious smile and just "pretend" to care. Would you want to jump up and say, "MY SON DIED FOR YOU! DON'T YOU CARE?"Is that what GOD wants to say? "MY SON DIED FOR YOU. DON'T YOU KNOW HOW MUCH I CARE?"
Father, Seeing it from YOUR eyes breaks our hearts. Maybe now we can begin to comprehend the great Love YOU have for us. I love you with everything I am.
Your daughter
Esther.
PURE BLOOD
It's a Wednesday night and you are at a church prayer meeting when somebody runs in from the parking lot yelling, "Turn on a radio, turn on a radio!"And while the church listens to a little transistor radio with a microphone stuck up to it, the announcement is made: "Two women are lying in a Long Island hospital dying from a 'mystery' flu." Within hours it seems, this thing just sweeps across the country.People are working around the clock trying to find an antidote. Nothing isworking! California, Oregon, Arizona, Florida, Massachusetts.It's as though it's just sweeping in from the borders. And then, all of a sudden, the news comes out. The code has been broken. A cure can be found. A vaccine can be made. It's going to take the blood of somebody who hasn't been infected, and so, sure enough, all through the Midwest, through all those channels of emergency broadcasting, everyone is asked to do one simple thing: Go to your downtown hospital and have your blood type taken. That's all we ask of you. When you hear the sirens go off in your neighborhood, please make your way quickly, quietly, and safely to the hospitals. Sure enough, when you and your family get down there late on that Friday night, there is a long line, and they've got nurses and doctors coming out and pricking fingers and taking blood and putting labels on it. Your husband and your kids are out there, and they take your blood type and they say, "Wait here in the parking lot and if we call your name, you can be dismissed and go home."You stand around, scared, with your neighbors, wondering what in the world is going on and if this is the end of the world. Suddenly a young man comes running out of the hospital screaming. He's yelling a name and waving a clipboard. What? He yells it again! And your son tugs on your jacket and says, "Mommy, that's me."Before you know it, they have grabbed your boy. Wait a minute! Hold on! And they say, "It's okay, his blood is clean. His blood is pure. We want to make sure he doesn't have the disease. We think he has got the right type." Five tense minutes later, out come the doctors and nurses, crying and hugging one another ... some are even laughing. It's the first time you have seen anybody laugh in a week, and an old doctor walks up to you and says, "Thank you. Your son's blood type is perfect. It's clean, it is pure, and we can make the vaccine." As the word begins to spread all across that parking lot full of folks, people are screaming and praying and laughing and crying.Then the gray-haired doctor pulls you and your husband aside and says, "May we see you for moment? We didn't realize that the donor would be a minor and we need ....... we need you to sign a consent form." You begin to sign and then you see that the number of pints of blood to be taken has been left blank."H-how many pints?", you ask. And that is when the old doctor's smile fades and he says, "We had no idea it would be little child. We weren't prepared. I'm sorry ma'am, we need it all!""But but .. You don't understand.""We are talking about the world here. Please sign. We need it all!""But can't you give him a transfusion?""If we had clean blood we would. Can you sign? Would you sign?"In numb silence, you do. Then they say, "Would you like to have a moment with him before we begin?"Can you walk back? Can you walk back to that room where your child sits on a table saying, "Daddy? Mommy? What's going on?" Can you take his hands and say, "Son, your daddy and I love you, and we would never ever let anything happen to you that didn't just have to be. Do you understand that?"And when that old doctor comes back in and says, "I'm sorry, we've GOT to get started! People all over the world are dying. Can you leave?"Can you walk out while he is saying, " Mommy? Daddy?" Why, why have you forsaken me?"And then next week, when they have the ceremony to honor your son some folks sleep through it ... some folks don't even come because they go to the lake or the seashore ... some folks come with a pretentious smile and just "pretend" to care. Would you want to jump up and say, "MY SON DIED FOR YOU! DON'T YOU CARE?"Is that what GOD wants to say? "MY SON DIED FOR YOU. DON'T YOU KNOW HOW MUCH I CARE?"
Father, Seeing it from YOUR eyes breaks our hearts. Maybe now we can begin to comprehend the great Love YOU have for us. I love you with everything I am.
Your daughter
Esther.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)