tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53674910478264391702011-11-27T19:56:18.995-05:00A place for christians to find<br> encouragement, support, hope, and inspiration as we explore your life, <i>His</i> purpose. <br>Grab some coffee, scroll down a little, and join us..."<i>a journey is always <br>better when it is shared</i>"Paulanoreply@blogger.comBlogger481100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-25461843799015476532009-06-24T00:00:00.000-04:002009-06-24T00:00:52.322-04:00

Take care not to overemphasize the areas you are most comfortable in and as a result, neglect the areas you need to mature in. It will help keep things balanced if you join a small group for accountability, regularly evaluate your progress, record achievement in a journal and share what you learn with others. Most of all, remember that it's all for the Glory of God! We live, we learn, we love,

Paulanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-10943172554093050682009-06-23T11:46:00.002-04:002009-06-23T12:06:45.360-04:00

The "Point to Ponder" at the end of this chapter is really a challenge to consider. It states this "The Great Commission is my commission." It's MY commission! We are all missionaries, commissioned by Jesus to share the good news of His salvation. As PDL states so well, there is a BIG difference between a WORLD-CLASS Christian and a WORDLY Christian. WORDLY Christians look to God primarily for

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-51479721317291400232009-06-10T00:00:00.002-04:002009-06-13T09:39:15.995-04:00

There are four parts to our life message:Our Testimony- the story of how we began our relationship with JesusOur Life Lessons- Important lessons God has taught usOur Godly Passions- What God shaped us to care about passionatelyThe Good News- sharing the message of salvationTo prepare to share our life message, it might be helpful to write down what your life was like before you met Jesus, how you

Paulanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-42385219838148271692009-06-06T11:39:00.004-04:002009-06-06T11:59:37.872-04:00

The constant theme of this book is that we all have a great purpose! The driving force of our purpose is our MISSION. Fulfilling your life mission on earth is an essential part of living for God's glory.The Great Commission was given to every follower of Jesus (Matt. 28:19-20). It is a wonderful privilege that God has challenged us to do - go and impact our world for Christ. All of your God given

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-22198022496911725232009-05-27T00:00:00.001-04:002009-05-27T00:00:01.269-04:00

We spent a lot of time (several chapters) talking about using our strengths and talents to serve God- now let's talk about using our weaknesses for the same thing! I had never put much thought into why I have the weaknesses I have. I guess I just always told myself that 'we all have a cross to bear' and if I had to say why... I guess I would say that it was to build our character and form us into

Paulanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-32128073753810703972009-05-22T00:55:00.003-04:002009-05-22T01:31:17.264-04:00

Our mind is a powerful force. It can make us and it can break us. "Thinking like a servant" was another great topic choice to study. It really all starts on how we think about serving - our attitude is crucial. I agree, God is always most interested in why we do something than in what we do. This might be true for all of us if we think about it. I am at my very best state of mind when I am

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-360848290058232792009-05-13T20:31:00.011-04:002009-05-24T11:14:44.684-04:00

It's true, actions do speak louder than words. The main idea behind this chapter is that in order to be a true servant, you must take action. Good intentions do not excuse anyone from stepping up and doing what needs to be done. It sounds so simple, but often we let "life" get in the way of our service. It's very easy to pack so much into our schedule that we leave no room for opportunities to

Paulanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-60913443357857426202009-04-30T16:28:00.003-04:002009-04-30T18:24:52.585-04:00

"Since we find ourselves fashioned into all these excellently formed and marvelously functioning parts in Christ's body, let's just go ahead and be what we were made to be." Romans 12:5 (Msg)There you go ... kinda reminds me of the Nike slogan "just do it." He shaped you for a purpose, and He expects you to make the most of what you have been given. What else can one say? The most I can do is

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-55397362331161613332009-04-20T23:12:00.004-04:002009-04-20T23:45:45.409-04:00

As we discussed previously, each of us is unique. We have various God-given skills and abilities that we were given for the purpose of bringing glory to God. Along with those skills and abilities, we were each given our very own personality to assist us in our endeavors. This chapter really made me think about how every experience of our lifetime leaves a unique impression on our individual

Paulanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-66959228543620022282009-04-09T14:17:00.003-04:002009-04-09T14:38:20.546-04:00

This is a WOW moment for me. I have been personally writing a Bible study for young girls and my focus has been on the lead scripture verse in this very chapter. Your hands shaped me and made me - Job 10:8 I do not think that is be chance so I am stunned for a moment. The reason that I have been focusing on this Scripture (and others with the same message), is that it shows us our value and

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-88914488485702573022009-04-02T14:00:00.004-04:002009-04-02T14:34:41.286-04:00

There are many who have always known and followed their 'calling' and others who still don't have it figured out. But, the bottom line is that God has blessed each of us with our own unique talents and skills. Our assignment is to use those talents and skills to glorify God and help each other. When you stand before God at your final judgement do you think he will accept 'I was gonna...','I was

Paulanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-88276297961438962112009-03-26T19:41:00.008-04:002009-03-27T02:04:09.366-04:00

The very first line in this chapter sums it all up for me. There are no shortcuts to maturity.The development of Christlike character cannot be rushed. Spiritual growth, like physical growth, takes time. I guess I wish it wasn't that way - but I know that growth is a process, not an overnight event. Yes, God could instantly transform us but he has chosen to develop us slowly. Like the PDL points

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-74669623684436074642009-03-18T19:31:00.005-04:002009-03-26T13:01:22.530-04:00

Temptation will arise, you can count on it. Each of us have our own weaknesses or vulnerabilities that open the door for temptation. The ability to maintain willpower and to overcome temptation lies within each of us. Know that you have to means to thwart temptation. Practicing the four biblical keys will help in your endeavors to defeat temptation. The first step is refocusing your

Paulanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-73229462834820904522009-03-16T03:24:00.003-04:002009-03-16T03:46:36.353-04:00

Happy is the man who doesn't give in and do wrong when he is tempted, for afterwards he will get as his reward the crown of life that God has promised those who love him. James 1:12What a beautiful promise God gives us here. A crown of life for those that don't give in and do wrong. As we see it ...every temptation is an opportunity to do good. Temptation simply provides the choice. Every time

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-25950837146662470212009-03-05T23:27:00.006-05:002009-03-06T00:25:30.936-05:00

Bad things happen to good people. It's inevitable. Everyone has their own set of 'troubles'. No one, not even Jesus got to bypass the trials and tribulations of this world. Understanding what is expected of us and learning how to deal with whatever might be put upon us is how God molds us. Of course, the ultimate goal is to build Christlike character, which in many cases is a challenge in itself.

Paulanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-18059469988421415272009-02-27T01:15:00.010-05:002009-02-27T01:48:02.855-05:00

Well, I am going to start with the end of this chapter because I feel like we really should be getting it by now. I am talking to myself here (and whoever is reading this too). The question to consider on pg. 192 is this ... "WHAT HAS GOD ALREADY TOLD ME (YOU) IN HIS WORD THAT I HAVEN'T STARTED DOING YET?"If we are really searching and asking, I know that God is showing us. I know this,

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-18748153875662928922009-02-18T09:19:00.002-05:002009-02-18T09:19:00.908-05:00

All you have to do to get started is decide to follow Jesus. But in order to grow spiritually, there has to be some change. Spiritual growth is a collaborative effort, while you work on developing new habits and changing the way you think, the Holy Spirit is right there beside you with the watering can. Focusing on others and on giving will help develop your mentality for spiritual maturity. "Our

Paulanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-34184669367312759822009-02-13T12:33:00.005-05:002009-02-13T12:36:04.533-05:00

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-32603181613048066092009-02-13T12:15:00.004-05:002009-02-13T12:31:59.271-05:00

WOW ... I am trying to grasp that thought. In my own strength this would truly be impossible! The scripture at the beginning of this chapter gives us some great advice."Let your roots grow down into Christ and draw up nourishment from him. See that you go on growing in the Lord, and become strong and vigorous in the truth." Col. 2:7Page 175 in the PDL highlights it the best as Paul explains it in

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-22127226116974460592009-02-06T08:03:00.004-05:002009-02-06T09:15:11.704-05:00

We're not talking about the using armed guards here. Rather, it's about keeping peace and unity within your church family. Any time you put a group of diverse individuals together, there will inevitably be differences. How we deal with those differences is key to supporting and promoting a healthy church. There are a number of things we can do to ensure that we, as individuals, support God's call

Paulanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-33294344045269359582009-01-29T12:34:00.007-05:002009-01-29T13:15:21.832-05:00

This is a heavy subject that only mature people can handle (and even then it's a tough challenge.) I will try to sum up this chapter and be sensitive because many of us have been hurt and still have some broken relationships out there. The PDL does a great job on talking about how we are called to be peacemakers. In fact we are called to peacemaking (Romans 12:18). That doesn't mean we become a

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-80359104733607918042009-01-21T11:06:00.004-05:002009-01-22T07:44:10.380-05:00

There are many challenges involved when you bring multiple cultures and personalities together. In order to grow and thrive in any diverse community, there are tools of cultivation that must be used. Two of the main tools that come to mind are humility and honesty. What else does it take to cultivate a positive, productive group? I thought Warren brought it together nicely on page 151 where he

Paulanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-49304867748999379412009-01-14T13:14:00.005-05:002009-01-14T13:51:35.786-05:00

Life is meant to be shared! How true that is and really what a gift that is to each of us. Sometimes, it is a challenge and sometimes it's pure bliss. Either way we need others in our life to motivate, challenge, love, share and grow. The Bible calls this shared experience "fellowship." We need places and groups that we can expose our faults, forgive, heal, give and receive. Jesus created the

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-21101154581390160422009-01-01T00:00:00.000-05:002009-01-01T00:00:00.688-05:00

Today, my friend, we are one year closer to Jesus' return. Let's celebrate by making the most of each day of this year!

Paulanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-63057556297567383562008-12-30T10:33:00.004-05:002008-12-30T10:58:26.811-05:00

"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;

Paulanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-51908417842205869212008-12-25T23:19:00.001-05:002008-12-25T23:19:58.658-05:00

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-74622789401243094952008-12-19T11:33:00.007-05:002008-12-19T12:15:13.744-05:00

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

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-73696386442051845922008-12-12T18:09:00.004-05:002008-12-14T18:05:04.190-05:00

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

Paulanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-56854948852194322122008-12-05T00:55:00.006-05:002008-12-30T11:06:06.749-05:00

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

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-59468772803691190312008-11-29T02:28:00.004-05:002008-11-29T02:37:36.042-05:00

"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.

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-15179539660286078982008-11-20T22:21:00.003-05:002008-11-20T22:51:07.081-05:00

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.

Paulanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-12089995602879861932008-11-13T10:54:00.005-05:002008-11-13T12:29:46.708-05:00

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

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-48551412235573634692008-11-05T13:28:00.008-05:002008-11-09T22:47:56.766-05:00

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

Paulanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-75341022596276545842008-10-29T10:50:00.004-04:002008-10-29T11:47:42.867-04:00

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

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-22701210613758126662008-10-22T15:08:00.013-04:002008-10-23T01:27:35.328-04:00

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

Paulanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-23073992267535113902008-10-15T00:02:00.005-04:002008-10-15T07:46:43.687-04:00

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

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-39533302591548308732008-10-04T21:04:00.004-04:002008-10-05T17:37:27.304-04:00

"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 4:11How 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

Paulanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-91872717400535223802008-09-29T00:30:00.008-04:002008-09-29T23:58:41.535-04:00

"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 39:4TEMPORARY! 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

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-10541694916308622382008-09-21T20:52:00.004-04:002008-09-21T23:43:31.911-04:00

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

Paulanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-22300356553218313212008-09-14T21:27:00.004-04:002008-09-15T00:18:49.080-04:00

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

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-87234411281148961762008-09-10T00:00:00.004-04:002008-09-15T00:18:36.573-04:00

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

Paulanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-70354275277674526552008-09-07T00:00:00.004-04:002008-09-15T00:19:25.369-04:00

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

Paulanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-51973060965266770652008-09-02T00:31:00.005-04:002008-09-02T10:06:33.192-04:00

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

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-39187760685017486532008-08-20T14:00:00.008-04:002008-09-02T10:06:54.723-04:00

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

Paulanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-28676688445318153532008-08-17T21:54:00.005-04:002008-08-18T12:41:07.222-04:00

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

Debbie Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04842109507998383855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-52783210265289936172008-08-16T21:35:00.003-04:002008-09-02T12:15:53.224-04:00

Q & A about this site, the internet, and blogging

Paulanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-243917847300688102008-08-16T21:33:00.003-04:002008-09-02T10:07:29.676-04:00

Is there something bothering or hindering you? This section is for general discussion and is intended to provide a forum for insight, encouragement, ideas, and support for day to day issues Christian women face.

Paulanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5367491047826439170.post-89629687989976740402008-08-16T21:28:00.002-04:002008-09-02T10:07:53.762-04:00

Please use this section for special prayer requests.

Paulanoreply@blogger.com4