Chapter 17- A Place to Belong

"so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully." ~Romans 12:5-8

This segment of scripture sums up the chapter pretty well. The general idea is that in order to perform your function in the 'body of Christ' you must find a church family to belong to. In doing so, you will glorify God and grow spiritually through the contribution of your 'special gifts' and unconditional love for your church (the body of Christ). All of these things confirm your commitment to God.

We wish you a very Merry CHRISTmas!

Chap. 16 What Matters Most

Here is as very important question for all of us. What matters most? Especially as we are caught up the season of Christmas and gift giving - what really matters most? What can we give to one another that changes the world and glorifies the Lord? LOVE, yes LOVE. As I ponder love, I wonder, have I grasped how incredible this gift is? "No matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love." I Cor. 13:3

This chapter is filled with very deep biblical thoughts on Love. I really can't even sum it up because Love is so big in every level of our lives. Our spiritual life, our family life and our world. Life is all about Love. As the PDL says, we are given a lifetime to learn it. The best use of life is Love. The best expression of Love is time. The best time to Love is now. Bless others and Jesus with the gift of Love this Christmas! Love ya - Debbie K

Chapter 15- Formed for God's Family

We are all born into a human family. God has extended the invitation to each person in each human family to become part of His family. What a privilege that is! God didn't need a family, he wanted a family...and you're invited, and I'm invited, and all the people we love are invited! All we have to do is put our faith in Jesus and be born again.

If you're ready to join God's family, I invite you to pray this prayer with me. "Lord, hear my prayer and accept me into your family. I accept Jesus as my savior. He came to earth and died for mankind and I have faith that he will come again just as the Bible says. I pray Lord that as your child, you will lead me as I prepare for the second coming for Christ. Thank you Lord in the name of Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen."

If you are searching for a church or have questions about your walk with God, please leave us a comment or email us and we will help you get the information you are looking for. May God bless and keep you throughout your journey.

Chapter 14 - When God Seems Distant

GOD IS REAL, NO MATTER HOW WE FEEL. That line best sums up this chapter. It is very direct and to the point. I really think this chapter and the concept is crucial to our walk with Christ. As the PDL points out...the deepest level of worship is praising God in spite of the pain, thanking God during the trial, trusting him in temptation, surrendering while suffering, and loving him when he seems distant. The biggest mistake we can make is to seek an experience rather than seeking God. There will be difficult times when God seem so far away but he is right next to you waiting and carrying you. He has already done everything for you. He gave his Son for us that we might have eternal life. "I will never leave you; I will never abandon you." Hebrews 13:5 He is our closest friend!

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

"I thank my God always concerning you..." 1 Cor. 1:4
I agree with Paul who wrote this verse in giving thanks for all of you that visit this site. I will post asap - got behind with the holidays ... hope all of you are well and enjoyed some food, family and rest.

Chapter 13- Worship That Pleases God

This chapter in the PDL talks about the four characteristics of worship that is pleasing to God; those characteristics being accuracy, authenticity, practicality and thoughtfulness. Accuracy obviously involves truth of Scripture and our own personal study and application thereof. Authenticity, practicality, and thoughtfulness are all in reference to the intentions behind our acts of worship. Are our intentions genuine, sincere, and heartfelt? If not, don't bother- because you're doing nothing more than adding ammunition to Satan's arsenal.

This chapter holds my favorite quote from the book thus far. I absolutely love the sentence that reads, "You cannot exalt God and yourself at the same time." What else is there to say about worship? That pretty much sums the chapter up in a nutshell. It's about exalting God wholeheartedly in everything that we do everyday...not just Sunday.

Developing your friendship with God - Chp. 12

The other day my little girl said to me "Mom we are going to be best friends forever." I looked at her and smiled with great love and affection. She was communicating to me that we are very close and that she trusts and loves me. She knows that I am her mom and yet we have a beautiful relationship between us. That is a small example of how God's friendship is with us.

I know that calling God our friend may seem to communicate a casual relationship but it really does communicate intimacy. There are many references to God being our friend like He is a "friend of sinners" or others about how we are His friend. Jesus healed the paralyzed man and said "friend your sins are forgiven" and also talks about how we are "friends of the bridegroom."

This chapter challenges us to draw close to God and he will draw close to us(James 4:8). The PDL asks us to be honest, obey and yearn for a passionate friendship with the Savior. We are friends of God! (Paula, I totally understand your last Blog entry, let's work on this together and any other girls out there!)

Chapter 11-Becoming Best Friends with God

I read this chapter twice, mostly because I have really struggled with the concept that we need to aspire to be "best friends" with God. We definitely have to develop a relationship with God and constantly cultivate that relationship. But, I still feel like I am the servent and God is the Master. James 4:8 says "Come near to God and he will come near to you..." There is no doubt that constant conversation and continual meditation will help you draw close to God. I really like the "breath prayer" and I probably actually say breath prayers more than I was ever aware. However, unless he has something really, really awe-inspiring in the next chapter,(I didn't read ahead) I have to say that to me, my relationship is still like that of a servant and master or father and child. While I endeavor to draw ever closer to God, I can only imagine ever aspiring to be a servant who finds some favor in His eyes. To me, God's friendship is far more than I am worthy of.

Perhaps I'm over-thinking this but when I read through John chapter 15, what I'm reading is Jesus in the flesh speaking to his disciples in the flesh. In verse 15 he says "I no longer call you servants," he didn't say 'my Father no longer calls you servants'. Then he concluded the verse with "...everything that I have learned from my Father I have made known to you." To me, that still shows the Father reigning a tier above.

Please feel free to offer your thoughts and perspective here as well. I have much to learn and I do not expect that we will all see eye to eye all the time. This post reflects the personal thoughts and perspectives of no one other than myself. I understand that I could be wrong and I am open to discussion in that regard.

Chapter 10 - The Heart of Worship

"Give yourselves to God ... Surrender your whole being to him to be used for righteous purposes." Romans 6:13

As the PDL points out, today's competitive culture teaches us to never give up, never give in - so we really don't hear much about surrendering. As this Scripture tells us, surrender is the at the very heart of worship. It's our greatest gift to Jesus. Often it is very hard to yield our lives but is a natural response to God's amazing love and mercy. Our relationship revolves around the greatest sacrifice of all - Jesus Christ. His love is so big that he gave his son to die a brutal death that saved us from our sins. I know it's hard to grasp this type of love but that is why surrender is the perfect response.

When we surrender we trust God and admit our frail humanity. As I type that line it sounds so passive and weak ... but surrender in NOT for cowards or doormats. It is probably the very hardest thing to do in our Christian walk. We will have to deal with three challenging areas: fear, pride and confusion. As we surrender each area of our lives, we will be filled with His hope, His faith and His purpose. It's a daily habit of keeping Jesus on the throne and not us.

What areas of my life are holding me back? I personally have many .... let's look at them reflectively and surrender them. Be blessed today!

Chapter 9- What Makes God Smile?

It sounds so simple. What makes you smile? A memory? a pet? a song? a hug? a kiss? It only takes a tiny little thing to make us smile, right? Well, it's the same with God. All it takes to make him smile is one simple thing- just do what he tells you to do, wholeheartedly.

Hummm, simple... but not necessarily easy; don't be discouraged though, it can be done! Look at Noah, he did it. Do you think it was easy for him to build an ark? No, I can't imagine anyone would consider that an easy task. He simply did what God told him to do. I can't help but think that Noah did find it "simple" to do what God told him though. Think about it, he worked on this day in and day out for 120 years. How much procrastinating can you do in 120 years? Apparently he didn't put it off even one day. He just did what he was told.

The book went through Noah's story pretty well and it talked about more specifics on how we can make God smile. Things like following the first commandment ('to love the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind and strength'), trusting God completely (like Noah did when he 'built an ark' in his front yard), obeying him wholeheartedly (partial obedience is disobedience), praising and thanking God continually, and using our God-given abilities. I imagine that Noah was using abilities that he didn't realize he had. How proud God must have been as he watched Noah following each and every detail exactly as he was instructed- every day for 120 years.

There really is so much to be learned from Noah. Debbie K has an awesome devotional teaching (and song) called "Noah's Rainbow" that she's been sharing with women's ministry groups. It covers the entire story of Noah and how his obedience and faith saved not only his family, but the entire human race. God was so disgusted with the world that he was just going to wipe everybody out...but there was Noah, and he "found favor in the eyes of the Lord". (Genesis 6:8) What a relief that is! See otherwise, we'd all be martians...and I don't know about you, but green does not look good on me!

Here's a video clip of Deb in action- for those of you who haven't seen it on her myspace page yet. After you watch, be sure to email her and ask how her newest devotional (on Jochebed) is coming along. You can visit Deb's website, myspace, or email us if you'd like more information on booking her to speak at your event.

Glimpse of "Noah's Rainbow"

Chapter 8 - Planned for God's Pleasure

Here is the important message of this chapter...anything you do that brings pleasure to God is an act of worship. Worship is far more than music, worship is a lifestyle.

As a singer and "worship leader" myself, we can't exclude parts of our church service as though the music is the only "worship" segment of the service. Every part of a church service is an act of worship: praying, Scripture reading, singing, communion, giving and the sermon. I know we all know this but the contemporary church has lost some of it's reverent traditions over the last couple decades. I think worship has been somewhat characterized to a segment in church. In the Bible, the Psalms talk about "worshipping him continually." There you go!

So, as the PDL talks about pleasure here are some points to ponder:

1. Bringing pleasure to God is called "worship"

2. "Worship" is far more than music

3. "Worship" is not for your benefit

Every activity can be transformed into an act of "worship" when we do it for the praise, glory and pleasure of God. Let's try to live our lives as a lifestyle of worship for Jesus everyday. Some days will be harder than others ... but that is true "worship." Can I get an Amen from anyone out there?

Chapter 7- The Reason for Everything

"You are worthy our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being." ~Revelation 4:11

How many were surprised to find that God's Glory is the reason for everything?


Because everything is for God's Glory, we have to ask ourselves 'How do I bring glory to God?' This chapter specifically names such things as worship, loving others, striving to become like Christ, sharing our talents with others, and telling others about God. If you take just a few minutes to really put some thought behind these items, what do you learn about yourself? Are you doing everything you can to fulfill your purpose?

Are you ready to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior? to pray the "Save Me" prayer? to turn your life over to God and REALLY live for Him?

God will give you what you need once you make the choice to live for him. You have to believe that. I often find myself praying that my faith is strong enough to guide me when Satan and my own imperfection blinds my path. I don't know what God's purpose is for my life, but I have made the decision to listen when God calls.

I'd like to offer a "Save Me" prayer for any who feel inclined to pray with me. "Jesus I believe in you and I receive you as Lord and Savior. Thank you Jesus for dying a painful death for my salvation. Walk with me through this earthly life, even when I forget how much I need you. Help me work for the Glory of God and remember me Lord." Amen.

Chapt. 6 - Life Is a Temporary Assignment

"Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered, and that my life is fleeing away." Psalms 39:4

TEMPORARY! A concept about our earthly life that is hard to grasp. We live in this world, it consumes us, it even sometimes controls us, but we are just visitors. We are literally passing through, like a pilgrim on its journey. Realizing that life is a temporary assignment should radically alter our values. We have to keep focused on eternal things but yet live in the present. My brother always says, "Hold on loosely" and that is so true. Everyday we are closer to our heavenly home but still living on our earthly home. What adjustments do I (we) need to make? Where is my focus? Where is my treasure?

I pray that we can give everyday to God as an offering, knowing that every moment counts on earth but yet stay focused on heaven. Someday that will be our permanent residence and our temporary assignment will be over.

Chapter 5- Seeing Life from God's View

How do you see your life?

God absolutely tests our character, faith, obedience, love, integrity, and loyalty. If he didn't, how would we condition our heart, mind, and conscience to guide us? Have you ever noticed how your mind and conscience function differently at times when you don't feel God's presence?

Prior to reading this chapter, I hadn't given much thought to the 'eternal implications' of life. As I go back over the chapter, my thoughts linger on Job and how he endured the harshest of tests- and passed them all. How I admire his character...

Reading through this chapter has also allowed me personally to realize that though I have failed many tests throughout my life- Jesus died for me. That means I get do-overs...and God will continue to test me. What a privilidge it is that we get more than 1 chance to learn and grow in Christ. God is good!

Chapter 4 - Made to Last Forever

When I look at a beautiful endless sunset, I often think of what heaven will be like. Yes, this life is not all there is. This chapter challenges us to live life differently with eternity in mind and our hearts focused on God.

This subject of eternity makes us deal with some important topics like heaven and hell. The PDL reminds us that our relationship with God on earth will determine our relationship to him in eternity. I am surprised that some people aren't thinking more about life after death - eternity. We can't live in denial of death because it is inevitable. We need to think about the reality of mortality everyday so we live our lives to it's fullest. Not in fear, but focused on the inheritance we will receive with Jesus. Everyday on earth is a opportunity to serve God and a day closer to heaven.

We were made to last forever with our Savior ... His love, forgiveness and salvation are a gift for all of us.

Chapter 3- (con't) Benefits of Becoming PURPOSE Driven

Once you become consciously aware of what is driving you, it's easier to put things into perspective. Putting things into perspective helps us not only to recognize, but to realize the benefits of living a PURPOSE driven life.

The book talks about the following benefits:
1) It gives meaning to your life.
2) It simplifies your life.
3) It focuses your life.
4) It motivates your life.
5) It prepares you for eternity.

Can you think of any other benefits of being purpose driven?

Chapter 3- What Drives Your Life?

This really is a long chapter and there is so much to cover. I think we will do it in segments. In the first segment we'll talk about the driving forces and how each of us are (or have been) affected by them. Mid-week I'll post a second segment that talks about the 'benefits of purpose driven living.'

I put some deep thought into this chapter. At various times in my life, I have been driven by all 5 of the things mentioned- along with a few that weren't mentioned. The main point is that SOMETHING drives each one of us. What drives you? Does it have to be something negative in nature? No, it doesn't. Suppose the purpose of this chapter is to shed light on the negative driving forces so that we can put them to rest- allowing us to focus on the positive forces that drive us toward our purpose?

How many of us are driven by guilt?

Of the ones listed, this is probably the most predominant for me. Not so much because I was 'running from regrets and hiding shame' but because I have always felt that I have to compromise my opinion, decision, or position to avoid conflict or hurt feelings. If I don't base my decisions on what's best for everyone else involved- regardless of my own personal best interests, I feel guilty. Although I understand and appreciate that my sins have been forgiven (Psalm 32:1), I do still feel somewhat guilty for the sins of my past. Perhaps subconsciously I hold on to the guilt just to make sure I don't make the same mistakes again. Apparently, this is something I need to work on...

How many of us are driven by resentment and anger?

There have definitely been times in my life when I was resentful and angry. One thing I can honestly say is that I just can't stay mad. I've tried! It doesn't work for me. I try to view that as a blessing- though it sometimes seems more like a curse. I absolutely love the line in PDL that says "those who have hurt you in the past cannot continue to hurt you now unless you hold on to the pain through resentment." How true is that? This paragraph reminded me of "The Lion King" where Rafiki whacked Simba over the head & when asked 'why?' he said 'it doesn't matter, it's in the past!'

How many of us are driven by fear?

I'm guilty again! I'm sure I have missed some great opportunities because of being afraid to step out of my comfort zone. I've been known to scare myself to death with 'what if this' and 'what if that'. It's time to get over it so I can get on with it!

How many of us are driven by materialism?

Now, of the five, this is probably the least of my concerns. Those of you who know me, know that I'm not very materialistic. I am satisfied if I can make enough money to pay the bills. I drive my cars until they die, I shop at Goodwill, and for goodness sakes I still have Grandma's 30 year old carpet! Don't get me wrong, I like nice things- I just don't have to have them. In 1997 I learned that "the most valuable things in life are not things!" and that "you can't take it with you". So, I'm content knowing that I have security in my relationship with God.

How many of us are driven by the need for approval?

In my younger days I struggled with this more so than now. But I figured out that I was never going to meet everyones standards- so I lived by mine. As the book puts it, "one key to failure is to try to please everyone." I do have to admit that kudos are nice every now and then.

What else drives you? is it a positive or negative force?

Chapter 2 - You are not an accident - right?

Amen to this title! This chapter validates my life, my (His) purpose, and my Creator. For me this subject is very personal because I wasn't a "planned" pregnancy. My parents always called me an unexpected surprise - but I wasn't planned in their book. My brothers were 16 & 18 and a baby girl wasn't in the "plan." They always loved me and called me a gift - but I did rock their world. (My mom told me later in life that she was in shock most of her pregnancy while my Dad was tickled handing out cigars months before I came.)

Isn't it funny how we think we are in control of our destiny? Like the PDL says "Many children are unplanned by their parents, but they are not unplanned by God. God never does anything accidentally, and He never makes mistakes, He has a reason for everything He creates."

"I am your Creator. You were in my care even before you were born." Isaiah 44:2

Nothing in your life is arbitrary! He divinely planned me. He created you - He designed you - He loves you ! Let's not struggle with our significance but embrace it. Let's thank God for creating us, giving us life and be excited about His purpose in our journey .... ARE YOU IN ?

Chapter 1- It All Starts with God

I read the first sentence and said to myself, 'ok, I'll just skip to chapter 2.' lol.

The sentence reads "It's not about you." and is backed up by Colossians 1:16 which says "For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him." (NIV) I accept that. But because Debbie was so gracious in gifting this book to me (and I want to learn and grow spiritually) I went ahead and read the chapter anyway... :)

Here are some of the highlights that I picked out. Please feel free to comment on these points or any other points that you were able to relate to as you read through the chapter.

• We can't expect God to reveal our life's purpose if we focus our attention on ourselves. Life is about letting God use you for his purpose.
• It is only in God that we are able to find our purpose, meaning, and destiny.
• Being successful in this world does not necessarily mean you are fulfilling your purpose and becoming what God created you to be. (Matt 16:25-27)
• We need to ask God to take us by the hand and lead us through this life- and be willing to follow where he leads.
• We must build our lives on "eternal truths" and maintain a relationship with Jesus.
• The Holy Spirit will come upon you and God will make his presence known whether you expect it or not. (Andrei Bitov story- p.21)
• It's not about me!

Ready, Set, Blog!

Hey Girls -

We are excited to start an encouraging blog site for christian women. Our hope is that we get a good group of women who can stop by and share with us (once or twice a week) about what God is doing in their lives. As a result, we have elected to begin a reading (or re-reading) of "The Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren.

If you're not familiar with this book, you can get more information about it at www.purposedrivenlife.com. Basically, our plan it to start by looking at a minimum of one chapter each week. If you're familiar with the book at all, you already know that the idea is to read a short chapter each day for 40 days. That being the case, we may bump things up a little in the future. For now, let's start out small and grow as we go...

"So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing" 1 Thes. 5:11

We need your help, support, and prayers in this journey. Let's do this for God's Glory!

Ready, Set, Blog!!!
Deb & Paula

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