Tonight I met up at Gulf Coast to hang out with my friend Anna. She was home for the weekend from USF, and we finally got to spend some time together and chat. We went to eat at Red Robin, then grabbed some italian ice and just walked around and went in some stores and window-shopped. In Charlotte Russe we each tried on a dress and took pictures...I'll come back and post one here when she sends them to me. We had a lot of fun, and I'm glad we got together. Next time we do this, we have to make sure that Meli, Krystle, and Amanda can come too!
Goodnight!
Evening with Anna!
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
I have been procrastinating so much lately! What is wrong with me?! Whatever happened to my daily schedule and motivation to get things done? HahaYesterday I got my hair cut differently than just being straight and one length. I have some side-bang stuff going on and lots of layers...I love it! I was actually kind of forced to get it cut because I took a pair of scissors to it myself, and apparently I'm no good at that! It was easily fixable though. The left picture shows it before, the right picture shows it after. Neither of them are that great, but it's all I had.
Indeed, Val's car is in need of something, yet again. A new battery. I told Shay-Shay (the car's nickname) to behave, but apparently she doesn't answer to me :)
You know, every now and then I find a verse or a passage in the bible that makes me laugh. I've shared some of these with other people, but they didn't really find them funny. I mainly got strange looks and awkward laughs, like they were trying to agree. Take a look at these and tell me if you see the same humor I do:
Romans 16:9: "Greet Urbanus, our co-worker in Christ, and my dear friend Stachys."
It sounds like a foot disease!
Romans 16:22: "I, Tertius, who wrote down this letter, greet you in the Lord."
I wonder if Paul knew he stuck that in there.
Galatians 2:4: "This matter arose because some false believers had infiltrated our ranks to spy on the freedom we have in Christ Jesus and to make us slaves."
Infiltrated our ranks?! Haha
Titus 2:12: "It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in this present age"
It reminds me of D.A.R.E. JUST SAY NO!
Judges 15:4-5 (of Samson): "So he went out and caught three hundred foxes and tied them tail to tail in pairs, lit the torches, and let the foxes loose in the standing grain of the Philistines"
HAHAHA...Try and imagine, if you will, 150 fox-pairs running crazily through a field. In my head, it's a really funny sight.
1 Samuel 18:25: "The king wants no other price for the bride than a hundred Philistine foreskins..."
Gross.
And then of course, there's 1 Samuel 24:3-4, when Saul goes in the cave to "relieve himself", and David sneaks up on him and cuts off the corner of his robe.
That's just weird...
Anyways, I get a kick out of those, and just thought I'd share. Also, this just popped into my head. To anyone who enjoys reading, I would HIGHLY recommend The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis. It's a somewhat difficult read--I had to read some parts over a couple times to fully grasp the concepts, but basically the book is an opposite perspective on spiritual warfare. It is written from the viewpoint of a devil giving advice to another devil on how to tempt Christians. It was extremely eye-opening for me, and I expect it would be for anyone else too. It's a great read--check it out!
That's all for now.
Friday, October 23, 2009
I am stubborn and impatient and independant...like my dad. That is why we clash.
I can be insensitive, sarcastic, and I take my mom for granted sometimes. My mom is the complete opposite, and that is why WE clash.
When my mom is being overly sensitive and thinks that everything we say is an insult to her, my dad and I get along, because we're thrown on the same team. When my dad is being a jerk towards my mom, she and I get along.
When dad is being a jerk to me, it is what it is.
Southeastern is only 2 months and 18 days away.
It'll flyyyy.
I can be insensitive, sarcastic, and I take my mom for granted sometimes. My mom is the complete opposite, and that is why WE clash.
When my mom is being overly sensitive and thinks that everything we say is an insult to her, my dad and I get along, because we're thrown on the same team. When my dad is being a jerk towards my mom, she and I get along.
When dad is being a jerk to me, it is what it is.
Southeastern is only 2 months and 18 days away.
It'll flyyyy.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
August 8, 2009
As a sort of continuation of my previous entry, I just want to update on what has happened since our flight. Unfortunately, I only had time to read half of 1st Peter, and I didn't get a chance to sleep. Our flight was over shortly after I finished writing. You know, there were so many chances on the plane I could have tried speaking to the couple next to me, but every time I got scared, and I didn't. I don't know why.
Anyways--getting through immigration/customs was so quick and easy. David and I were shocked when we realized we were through. In Jamaica, they asked us all sorts of questions and searched our bags and stuff, but here all we had to do was pick up our bags and then hand over forms. SO easy...
Outside the airport, Ron, Mrs. Ansley, Drew, and some of the people Ron works with met us and took us to the vans. After a quick restroom break we loaded up for the 45 minute drive to Antigua. It was already basically dark though, so we couldn't see too much. Tomorrow we'll get a better idea.
After we arrived at Posada Dona Luisa, we unloaded all of our bags on a tiny one-way cobblestone road, and managed to finish without anyone getting hit by a car. Haha. We then ate a delicious dinner that included some meat/cheese combo, rice, salad, pineapple, and bread. Soon after, Ron went over rules, tips, and schedules real fast, and we were free to head to our rooms. Speaking of which...Emily Murphy and I are sharing Room #1, and it is TINY. The room itself is fine, but OH MY! The bathroom is SO SMALL! Erin tested it out for us and reported that you can indeed go to the bathroom, shave, and wash your hands just fine...all at the same time! It will be difficult not to put the toilet paper in the toilet, but we will try! Haha.
Well, for tonight I'm out. It is currently five minutes to 10pm Guatemala time, which means about midnight back home. I wasn't very tired earlier, but now I'm feeling it. I have to wake up at 6:30 tomorrow morning, so PEACE OUT!
-Courtney
As a sort of continuation of my previous entry, I just want to update on what has happened since our flight. Unfortunately, I only had time to read half of 1st Peter, and I didn't get a chance to sleep. Our flight was over shortly after I finished writing. You know, there were so many chances on the plane I could have tried speaking to the couple next to me, but every time I got scared, and I didn't. I don't know why.
Anyways--getting through immigration/customs was so quick and easy. David and I were shocked when we realized we were through. In Jamaica, they asked us all sorts of questions and searched our bags and stuff, but here all we had to do was pick up our bags and then hand over forms. SO easy...
Outside the airport, Ron, Mrs. Ansley, Drew, and some of the people Ron works with met us and took us to the vans. After a quick restroom break we loaded up for the 45 minute drive to Antigua. It was already basically dark though, so we couldn't see too much. Tomorrow we'll get a better idea.
After we arrived at Posada Dona Luisa, we unloaded all of our bags on a tiny one-way cobblestone road, and managed to finish without anyone getting hit by a car. Haha. We then ate a delicious dinner that included some meat/cheese combo, rice, salad, pineapple, and bread. Soon after, Ron went over rules, tips, and schedules real fast, and we were free to head to our rooms. Speaking of which...Emily Murphy and I are sharing Room #1, and it is TINY. The room itself is fine, but OH MY! The bathroom is SO SMALL! Erin tested it out for us and reported that you can indeed go to the bathroom, shave, and wash your hands just fine...all at the same time! It will be difficult not to put the toilet paper in the toilet, but we will try! Haha.
Well, for tonight I'm out. It is currently five minutes to 10pm Guatemala time, which means about midnight back home. I wasn't very tired earlier, but now I'm feeling it. I have to wake up at 6:30 tomorrow morning, so PEACE OUT!
-Courtney
Guatemala Blog 1
August 8, 2009
Currently, I'm sitting on a plane to Guatemala with Beth, Val, Erin, David, Misty, Sherma, Marie, Andres, Aaron, Alex, Rachel, Evan, Emily Murphy, and Emily Reed. We are headed to Antigua, and our plan for the next week is to go to a malnutrition center and finish up some light construction and work with the kids.
This morning everyone met at the church around 8:30 am and Tom the Bus Driver brought us to Miami. We stopped and had lunch at the Florida Baptist Children's Home, and then they transported us to the airport. After much confusion and chaos, we were finally able to board the plane. While most of the group is together, some of us are separated. I WAS sitting in an aisle seat across from Erin and in front of Aaron and Val, but then I was asked to move so that a mother was able to sit with her kids. Of course, I didn't mind much at all...I can handle myself. :] I'm not sitting ten rows up from everyone else, next to the window seat. I can't tell you at all how long we've been flying, but so far I've been able to sleep a bit, and being along has given me a chance to pray and regain focus...I needed it, because after the heat today, the confusion, and other people's complaints, I've already lost sight of why I was going to Guatemala in the first place. Honestly, I'm not sure if I was spiritually ready for this trip. I've been praying about it a lot, but I feel weird. In one of my quiet times lately I felt like God was reminding me that on this trip I need to be selfless, and of course the only way I can do that is by putting myself aside completely. I took that to include whatever issues are going on between me and other people, as well as whatever worries and concerns are plaguing me from back in Florida. I guess maybe I just need to work on that a bit more.
Lately I've been so easily bothered by certain things, and even though I ought to trust people more, I can't help it. I see things going on, but whether it's my own insecure self twisting them or I'm seeing things as they are, I'm not sure. It just occured to me, though, that I haven't prayed about it...
Well, for now I'm out. I'm going to read my bible for a bit, then try to sleep a little more. As boring as it may seem, I've been enjoying my time apart from the group.
-Courtney
Currently, I'm sitting on a plane to Guatemala with Beth, Val, Erin, David, Misty, Sherma, Marie, Andres, Aaron, Alex, Rachel, Evan, Emily Murphy, and Emily Reed. We are headed to Antigua, and our plan for the next week is to go to a malnutrition center and finish up some light construction and work with the kids.
This morning everyone met at the church around 8:30 am and Tom the Bus Driver brought us to Miami. We stopped and had lunch at the Florida Baptist Children's Home, and then they transported us to the airport. After much confusion and chaos, we were finally able to board the plane. While most of the group is together, some of us are separated. I WAS sitting in an aisle seat across from Erin and in front of Aaron and Val, but then I was asked to move so that a mother was able to sit with her kids. Of course, I didn't mind much at all...I can handle myself. :] I'm not sitting ten rows up from everyone else, next to the window seat. I can't tell you at all how long we've been flying, but so far I've been able to sleep a bit, and being along has given me a chance to pray and regain focus...I needed it, because after the heat today, the confusion, and other people's complaints, I've already lost sight of why I was going to Guatemala in the first place. Honestly, I'm not sure if I was spiritually ready for this trip. I've been praying about it a lot, but I feel weird. In one of my quiet times lately I felt like God was reminding me that on this trip I need to be selfless, and of course the only way I can do that is by putting myself aside completely. I took that to include whatever issues are going on between me and other people, as well as whatever worries and concerns are plaguing me from back in Florida. I guess maybe I just need to work on that a bit more.
Lately I've been so easily bothered by certain things, and even though I ought to trust people more, I can't help it. I see things going on, but whether it's my own insecure self twisting them or I'm seeing things as they are, I'm not sure. It just occured to me, though, that I haven't prayed about it...
Well, for now I'm out. I'm going to read my bible for a bit, then try to sleep a little more. As boring as it may seem, I've been enjoying my time apart from the group.
-Courtney
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Awhile back I suggested to Val that he shouldn't take his laptop to Guatemala just because of the WiFi, so that he doesn't get all distracted because of it, because I know I would. He's taking it anyways. Yesterday I was talking to Erin and I told her that now I was thinking about borrowing his computer just for Word, to type up my blogs, but I knew he'd give me a hard time about it after what I told him. Sure enough, I mentioned that to him last night, and he was like "NO. You're not touching my computer! You're the one that said I shouldn't take it..."
I'm so used to typing my blogs now...How will I ever find the time to hand-write EVERYTHING I want to say?!
I'm so used to typing my blogs now...How will I ever find the time to hand-write EVERYTHING I want to say?!
Sunday, August 2, 2009
I was reading this great blog earlier, and in it I came across a link to The Modesty Survey. This survey was conducted in 2007, as a project of The Rebelution. Over 200 Christian girls submitted questions concerning modesty, and over 1,600 Christian guys ages 12 and up responded by rating each question from "strongly disagree" to "strongly agree", and also left text comments to voice their opinion. It was veryyyy interesting to see just what guys struggle with the most when it comes to guarding their eyes, even as a girl who tries to be conscientious about that.
I've always considered myself to be modest, and for a long time I've understood that guys are wired WAY differently than girls, and are distracted by things that may seem completely retarded to us girls. However, as I was reading through the results of the survey, I was blown away by the little things the guys said are a stumbling block. A lot of what the guys were saying, too, related to how modesty is more than just how a girl dresses. It also has a lot to do with attitude and how a girl holds herself. Reading all the messages Christian guys typed out to their Christian sisters was such an encouraging reminder of why I try so hard. It was so cool to read through them all and see that there REALLY are guys out there who notice when girls cover themselves and are thankful for it, not just guys who think it's weird.
Girls, I strongly encourage you to check this survey out, and that other blog too. And before I go, one of my favorite proverbs:
Epilogue: The Wife of Noble Character
A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.
Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value.
She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.
She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands.
She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar.
She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and portions for her servant girls.
She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.
She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night.
In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.
When it snows, she has no fear for her household for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
She makes coverings for her bed;
she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes.
She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.
She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
"Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.
PROVERBS 31
I've always considered myself to be modest, and for a long time I've understood that guys are wired WAY differently than girls, and are distracted by things that may seem completely retarded to us girls. However, as I was reading through the results of the survey, I was blown away by the little things the guys said are a stumbling block. A lot of what the guys were saying, too, related to how modesty is more than just how a girl dresses. It also has a lot to do with attitude and how a girl holds herself. Reading all the messages Christian guys typed out to their Christian sisters was such an encouraging reminder of why I try so hard. It was so cool to read through them all and see that there REALLY are guys out there who notice when girls cover themselves and are thankful for it, not just guys who think it's weird.
Girls, I strongly encourage you to check this survey out, and that other blog too. And before I go, one of my favorite proverbs:
Epilogue: The Wife of Noble Character
A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.
Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value.
She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.
She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands.
She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar.
She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and portions for her servant girls.
She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.
She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night.
In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.
When it snows, she has no fear for her household for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
She makes coverings for her bed;
she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes.
She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.
She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
"Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.
PROVERBS 31
Today is a great day.
As I sit here watching The Incredibles and hating the pile of clean laundry sitting in front of me, I've got Guatemala consuming my thoughts. Today at church, the service was mainly dedicated to hearing the stories of the adults who just returned from their trip, and viewing a video of pictures. One of the things they talked a lot about was The Oasis, a ministry that reaches out to women who are stuck in the prostitution industry. They described the "line"--an old railway where the women rent the rooms that they use, and along which men from all over walk to choose the woman. They told detailed stories of two different women they met who are trapped in the cycle, but want to get out.
I truly do not like being emotional, but I couldn't help it...I wanted to cry. Sex trafficking and prostitution is something that tugs at my heart a lot--probably more like yanks at it. Lol. So, for me to hear those stories and even to hear that there was a 16 year old involved...it was really hard. Before the ushers collected this week's offerings, Pastor Stephen explained that it costs approximately twenty U.S. dollars a day for the women to survive, between paying rent for the room, paying the gangs that "own" them, and providing for their families. So, he called all the men to step forward and give $2.50 each week to get those women out from underneath the weight of all of that. It was beautiful, really. To watch all those men stand up, walk to the alter, and put money in that basket for those women was truly AWESOME. Whether it meant anything to them or not, it meant a lot to me, and believe me when I say that it could be the difference between life and death for those women.
Now that the day of our own departure is coming up, I'm feeling more and more desperate to pray for the Guatemalan people that we'll be visiting, and the ones that our adults got to meet last week. I can't wait to see what God has in store for US when we go!
More later.
=]
As I sit here watching The Incredibles and hating the pile of clean laundry sitting in front of me, I've got Guatemala consuming my thoughts. Today at church, the service was mainly dedicated to hearing the stories of the adults who just returned from their trip, and viewing a video of pictures. One of the things they talked a lot about was The Oasis, a ministry that reaches out to women who are stuck in the prostitution industry. They described the "line"--an old railway where the women rent the rooms that they use, and along which men from all over walk to choose the woman. They told detailed stories of two different women they met who are trapped in the cycle, but want to get out.
I truly do not like being emotional, but I couldn't help it...I wanted to cry. Sex trafficking and prostitution is something that tugs at my heart a lot--probably more like yanks at it. Lol. So, for me to hear those stories and even to hear that there was a 16 year old involved...it was really hard. Before the ushers collected this week's offerings, Pastor Stephen explained that it costs approximately twenty U.S. dollars a day for the women to survive, between paying rent for the room, paying the gangs that "own" them, and providing for their families. So, he called all the men to step forward and give $2.50 each week to get those women out from underneath the weight of all of that. It was beautiful, really. To watch all those men stand up, walk to the alter, and put money in that basket for those women was truly AWESOME. Whether it meant anything to them or not, it meant a lot to me, and believe me when I say that it could be the difference between life and death for those women.
Now that the day of our own departure is coming up, I'm feeling more and more desperate to pray for the Guatemalan people that we'll be visiting, and the ones that our adults got to meet last week. I can't wait to see what God has in store for US when we go!
More later.
=]
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Last night Val and I got to talking about whether or not Christians should only date Christians. Actually, the conversation started as a joke about me cheating on him, and he mentioned that if I ever did, it would just prove to him that Christian girls are no different than non-Christians. It is because of the fact that he sees Christians all over the place that do the same things as non-Christians that he thinks it doesn't really matter then. At this point in the conversation I told him I wasn't going to say anything, because I disagree wholeheartedly, and it was not worth getting into an argument about (I was trying the whole pick-your-battles concept, haha). However, I could not hold my tongue, and I quickly erupted into an extensive monologue explaining why I feel so strongly about this topic.
2 Corinthians 6:14-18 has become a verse that means so much in my life.
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: "I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people."
"Therefore come out from them
and be separate, says the Lord.
Touch no unclean thing,
and I will receive you.
I will be a Father to you,
and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty."
Towards the end of my freshman year of high school, I started going out with a guy that I had liked for literally three and a half years beforehand. At the time, I considered myself a Christian, but in reality it meant nothing to me. It was just a reason to keep going to what constituted youth group every week. Shortly after the two of us started going out, David joined our church as the new youth pastor, and we started going through this discipleship workbook called Equipping the Saints. I learned SO MUCH about what being a Christian means, and I believe that is the time that I truly became saved. From that point on, I experienced incredible growth as a Christian. I felt like I had rocketed away from everything I knew to be "normal".
At the same time, my relationship with that guy was going well, except for the fact that all we seemed to do was fight about church. I was constantly inviting him to come to youth group, and when he didn't want to come, I tried to convince him to join in on a party or a skating trip, but nope. I began to pray that he would come, that God would do something miraculous in his heart. He swore up and down that he loved me, but I couldn't understand why he didn't want anything to do with something that was such a huge part of my life.
I was scheduled to be baptized with a group of other kids on August 13th of 2006. I invited my boyfriend to come, but he refused. That Sunday evening came and went, and although it was an incredibly happy moment for me, I was devastated--I wanted him to share this with me so bad, but he wouldn't. After that, I began talking to David online about what I'd been thinking and feeling, and he told me about the verses posted above. As I read them and thought about the advice he had given me, I decided that from that point on I would continue to pray about the situation and what exactly the passage meant. I'd heard some people say that it only applies to marriage, while others throw dating in there too, and really, I wanted to know what GOD thought. So, I continued to pray, and often I would cry over my boyfriend and those verses. Yes, I wanted him to come to know Christ, but I think I was just mostly scared that I would have to break up with him in the end. As I talked to God about it time and time again, and began to see that God was telling me that the verses do indeed apply to dating, I freaked out because I knew that God was asking me to break up with this guy. I did NOT want to do that, so in desperation I thought well if I could just get him to come to church ONCE that would be good enough. Obviously, that way of thinking did not work out, and eventually I broke up with him.
In all, this is the story behind how I came to find this passage so important. It was during this time that I realized that I, as a Christian, was headed in a total opposite direction from him. We failed to have in common the most important thing in life, as evidenced by all of our arguments about church. Even if we had been able to quench them then, there would have come a time when I could no longer stand by his side and still truly follow God. I so completely believe that a Christian should strive to date and marry other Christians only, not just "good people". Yes, there will be Christians who make mistakes, and people who claim to be Christians but don't live that way. But honestly, that is for you as an individual to judge for yourself. You don't HAVE to date the Christian that cheats on her boyfriends. Find someone who is more trustworthy and has more integrity than that, but let the person you choose be someone who is after the heart of God, not just someone who sticks the title "Christian" on them.
That's just what I think. When I finished explaining this last part to Val, I couldn't help but laugh. I had gotten so worked up over this, and I apologized because he was kind of speechless after that. Haha. So yeah...that's what I think, and I'd REALLY like to know your opinion. Do share! =]
I'm out for the night. Peace!
2 Corinthians 6:14-18 has become a verse that means so much in my life.
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: "I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people."
"Therefore come out from them
and be separate, says the Lord.
Touch no unclean thing,
and I will receive you.
I will be a Father to you,
and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty."
Towards the end of my freshman year of high school, I started going out with a guy that I had liked for literally three and a half years beforehand. At the time, I considered myself a Christian, but in reality it meant nothing to me. It was just a reason to keep going to what constituted youth group every week. Shortly after the two of us started going out, David joined our church as the new youth pastor, and we started going through this discipleship workbook called Equipping the Saints. I learned SO MUCH about what being a Christian means, and I believe that is the time that I truly became saved. From that point on, I experienced incredible growth as a Christian. I felt like I had rocketed away from everything I knew to be "normal".
At the same time, my relationship with that guy was going well, except for the fact that all we seemed to do was fight about church. I was constantly inviting him to come to youth group, and when he didn't want to come, I tried to convince him to join in on a party or a skating trip, but nope. I began to pray that he would come, that God would do something miraculous in his heart. He swore up and down that he loved me, but I couldn't understand why he didn't want anything to do with something that was such a huge part of my life.
I was scheduled to be baptized with a group of other kids on August 13th of 2006. I invited my boyfriend to come, but he refused. That Sunday evening came and went, and although it was an incredibly happy moment for me, I was devastated--I wanted him to share this with me so bad, but he wouldn't. After that, I began talking to David online about what I'd been thinking and feeling, and he told me about the verses posted above. As I read them and thought about the advice he had given me, I decided that from that point on I would continue to pray about the situation and what exactly the passage meant. I'd heard some people say that it only applies to marriage, while others throw dating in there too, and really, I wanted to know what GOD thought. So, I continued to pray, and often I would cry over my boyfriend and those verses. Yes, I wanted him to come to know Christ, but I think I was just mostly scared that I would have to break up with him in the end. As I talked to God about it time and time again, and began to see that God was telling me that the verses do indeed apply to dating, I freaked out because I knew that God was asking me to break up with this guy. I did NOT want to do that, so in desperation I thought well if I could just get him to come to church ONCE that would be good enough. Obviously, that way of thinking did not work out, and eventually I broke up with him.
In all, this is the story behind how I came to find this passage so important. It was during this time that I realized that I, as a Christian, was headed in a total opposite direction from him. We failed to have in common the most important thing in life, as evidenced by all of our arguments about church. Even if we had been able to quench them then, there would have come a time when I could no longer stand by his side and still truly follow God. I so completely believe that a Christian should strive to date and marry other Christians only, not just "good people". Yes, there will be Christians who make mistakes, and people who claim to be Christians but don't live that way. But honestly, that is for you as an individual to judge for yourself. You don't HAVE to date the Christian that cheats on her boyfriends. Find someone who is more trustworthy and has more integrity than that, but let the person you choose be someone who is after the heart of God, not just someone who sticks the title "Christian" on them.
That's just what I think. When I finished explaining this last part to Val, I couldn't help but laugh. I had gotten so worked up over this, and I apologized because he was kind of speechless after that. Haha. So yeah...that's what I think, and I'd REALLY like to know your opinion. Do share! =]
I'm out for the night. Peace!
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
The word "excited" really doesn't even cover how I'm feeling about the upcoming mission trip to Guatemala.
For those of you who don't know, a group of us from my youth group (along with some adults) are going on a mission trip to Guatemala in August. We are headed to Antigua, and will be working with kids 4 years old and under at a malnutrition center, as well as fixing up the facility and bringing as many supplies as we can.
Last night David let youth group out a little early, and those of us going on the trip met with a man named Ron Gunter, who is putting our trip together. He is the Vice President for International Childcare at Florida Baptist Children's Homes, and has made this trip a million times! (Okay, not literally, but still...)
Before, I was excited and everything, as we worked to raise money for the trip, but now that we have details of exactly what we'll be doing, I'm ecstatic! Ron gave us a little packet that had our itinerary in it, as well as other information that we need to know about. He also gave us all a really nice "travel journal" to use for the duration of the trip. That's really cool, although even if he hadn't given them to us, I would still journal everything I could.
I simply cannot wait to go and pitch in. Ron described what the children will look like, seeing as how malnourished they are, and it scares me...I'm nervous that when I get there and see those kids I won't be able to stand it. We'll see.
Also, I'm SO excited that we're going to a spanish-speaking country this year. I don't know how much I'll be able to understand and say, but I am certainly planning on pushing myself to try the entire time...I want to be fluent, and both years I've taken spanish with Mrs. Hernandez, she's told me I will be. Lol, I can't let her down.
;]
Well, I'll be back soon with more details. Summer camp in Daytona Beach is next Monday through Friday, so I might not be back until after then.
Oh, and before I go...I still need almost $300 for Guatemala. Would you join me in praying that God will provide that? For the rest of the group as well...
Thanks so much!
Goodnight.
=]
CHECK THESE LINKS OUT:
Florida Baptist Children's Homes site: http://fbchomes.org/index.html
Florida Baptist Children's Homes blog: http://fbchinternationalchildcare.blogspot.com/
For those of you who don't know, a group of us from my youth group (along with some adults) are going on a mission trip to Guatemala in August. We are headed to Antigua, and will be working with kids 4 years old and under at a malnutrition center, as well as fixing up the facility and bringing as many supplies as we can.
Last night David let youth group out a little early, and those of us going on the trip met with a man named Ron Gunter, who is putting our trip together. He is the Vice President for International Childcare at Florida Baptist Children's Homes, and has made this trip a million times! (Okay, not literally, but still...)
Before, I was excited and everything, as we worked to raise money for the trip, but now that we have details of exactly what we'll be doing, I'm ecstatic! Ron gave us a little packet that had our itinerary in it, as well as other information that we need to know about. He also gave us all a really nice "travel journal" to use for the duration of the trip. That's really cool, although even if he hadn't given them to us, I would still journal everything I could.
I simply cannot wait to go and pitch in. Ron described what the children will look like, seeing as how malnourished they are, and it scares me...I'm nervous that when I get there and see those kids I won't be able to stand it. We'll see.
Also, I'm SO excited that we're going to a spanish-speaking country this year. I don't know how much I'll be able to understand and say, but I am certainly planning on pushing myself to try the entire time...I want to be fluent, and both years I've taken spanish with Mrs. Hernandez, she's told me I will be. Lol, I can't let her down.
;]
Well, I'll be back soon with more details. Summer camp in Daytona Beach is next Monday through Friday, so I might not be back until after then.
Oh, and before I go...I still need almost $300 for Guatemala. Would you join me in praying that God will provide that? For the rest of the group as well...
Thanks so much!
Goodnight.
=]
CHECK THESE LINKS OUT:
Florida Baptist Children's Homes site: http://fbchomes.org/index.html
Florida Baptist Children's Homes blog: http://fbchinternationalchildcare.blogspot.com/
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Oh man...I thank God so often that I have friends and family who care about and can relate to how I feel about things, and I'm thankful that God has given me writing as an outlet to express myself. Some people have music or speech, art or whatever, but writing has been the only consistant thing that helps me explain myself. Without it, I don't think people would know me as well as they do.
Tomorrow I send off my $200 enrollment and housing deposit. Up until this point the preparations have just seemed like more steps along the path, but actually sending off money and waiting to see who my roommate will be makes it all the more real! I really am excited. I'm excited to get out of Lehigh, and to meet new people, and to learn in such AWESOME-sounding courses! I'm excited to test my faith and see what I'm really made of and how much I can really handle. Yes, I'm still concerned about leaving Val and my family and friends behind, but I try to remind myself that Lakeland is NOT that far away.
I'm waiting to see the rest of my financial aid packet for Southeastern. So far it's looking pretty good--no loans. We'll see what else I can get from them. Edison, on the other hand...I need to call tomorrow to find out if they're really done reviewing my financial information. So far they're saying that all I'm getting from them is Bright Futures, which is not good. The state changed how much money you get, so instead of getting 100% of community college, I will get $78 per credit hour. That's close, but doesn't quite cover tuition. Then there's books, still...so, yeah. We'll see. I should look for a job. Haha. You know, I laugh, but I really should. It's just extremely difficult. I don't want to be making excuses or anything, but without a car I'm confined to Lehigh, and of course in this economy I haven't heard of anyone in Lehigh hiring. It's tough, and I hate having to rely so much on my parents for stuff. Val's great too--he spoils me! Without him offering to pay for me, I'd never go out or do anything with him! Lol
Well, I'm out for now. Goodnight!
Tomorrow I send off my $200 enrollment and housing deposit. Up until this point the preparations have just seemed like more steps along the path, but actually sending off money and waiting to see who my roommate will be makes it all the more real! I really am excited. I'm excited to get out of Lehigh, and to meet new people, and to learn in such AWESOME-sounding courses! I'm excited to test my faith and see what I'm really made of and how much I can really handle. Yes, I'm still concerned about leaving Val and my family and friends behind, but I try to remind myself that Lakeland is NOT that far away.
I'm waiting to see the rest of my financial aid packet for Southeastern. So far it's looking pretty good--no loans. We'll see what else I can get from them. Edison, on the other hand...I need to call tomorrow to find out if they're really done reviewing my financial information. So far they're saying that all I'm getting from them is Bright Futures, which is not good. The state changed how much money you get, so instead of getting 100% of community college, I will get $78 per credit hour. That's close, but doesn't quite cover tuition. Then there's books, still...so, yeah. We'll see. I should look for a job. Haha. You know, I laugh, but I really should. It's just extremely difficult. I don't want to be making excuses or anything, but without a car I'm confined to Lehigh, and of course in this economy I haven't heard of anyone in Lehigh hiring. It's tough, and I hate having to rely so much on my parents for stuff. Val's great too--he spoils me! Without him offering to pay for me, I'd never go out or do anything with him! Lol
Well, I'm out for now. Goodnight!
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Ohhh, I am dreading January.
It's going to be so hard.
I will miss my family so much, but
I know that I will always have them.
What if Val gets tired of me not being there?
He says he won't, but maybe he's wrong.
How does he know?
I don't want to lose him because of that.
Well, I don't want to lose him at all.
These thoughts just make me want to
stay here in Lehigh.
God, comfort me please.
I love you, and I know that
when all else fails, You are
STILL THERE.
=[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[
It's going to be so hard.
I will miss my family so much, but
I know that I will always have them.
What if Val gets tired of me not being there?
He says he won't, but maybe he's wrong.
How does he know?
I don't want to lose him because of that.
Well, I don't want to lose him at all.
These thoughts just make me want to
stay here in Lehigh.
God, comfort me please.
I love you, and I know that
when all else fails, You are
STILL THERE.
=[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[
Sunday, May 31, 2009
I never do anything 6th period at school. I'm an aide for a history/psych teacher that I had last year, but for the past month or two I'm rarely in that class. I usually go into Mr. Toms' room and chill with him and whoever else is in there, ESPECIALLY these last couple weeks. Last Tuesday a couple guys started a 500-piece puzzle in Toms' lab, and when I started helping I realized that I had forgotten how much I love puzzles. So, on Thursday, I went in there to work on the puzzle during 6th period. It was just me and Toms and his aide, and so while I was concentrating, we started talking about church and Christianity and stuff.
I thought it was a really neat opportunity to hear what he thinks, and to be heard in return. We both were able to voice our opinion and have an uninterrupted conversation. I really enjoyed it! We talked a lot about Toms' past in relation to the Catholic church, and a lot about hypocrisy. He mentioned how he hears kids debate whole evolution vs. creationism deal, yet turn around and live NOTHING like they should based on what they just defended. He told me that I seem like I live out what I believe, and I'm glad that he at least sees that I'm trying. We talked about how easy it is to say that there is a God in control when things are good, but how do you explain all of the bad stuff--it's a turn-off, basically is what he said.
In all, I'm REALLY glad that I had that chance to talk to him. I LOVE hearing people's opinions about things--I really do. And for him to bring it up and chat with me about it for a good 45 minutes was awesome. I can only pray for more one-on-one moments like that with people.
Thank you Jesus for that chance to tell him about you! It may not have made a difference at the time, but I pray that someday down the road it will. Whether he believes it or not, Mr. Toms needs you. Lord, show him who you are and the love you have for him, and send someone else my way I can share you with! I love you, God
I thought it was a really neat opportunity to hear what he thinks, and to be heard in return. We both were able to voice our opinion and have an uninterrupted conversation. I really enjoyed it! We talked a lot about Toms' past in relation to the Catholic church, and a lot about hypocrisy. He mentioned how he hears kids debate whole evolution vs. creationism deal, yet turn around and live NOTHING like they should based on what they just defended. He told me that I seem like I live out what I believe, and I'm glad that he at least sees that I'm trying. We talked about how easy it is to say that there is a God in control when things are good, but how do you explain all of the bad stuff--it's a turn-off, basically is what he said.
In all, I'm REALLY glad that I had that chance to talk to him. I LOVE hearing people's opinions about things--I really do. And for him to bring it up and chat with me about it for a good 45 minutes was awesome. I can only pray for more one-on-one moments like that with people.
Thank you Jesus for that chance to tell him about you! It may not have made a difference at the time, but I pray that someday down the road it will. Whether he believes it or not, Mr. Toms needs you. Lord, show him who you are and the love you have for him, and send someone else my way I can share you with! I love you, God
Monday, May 25, 2009
I read one of those silly myspace surveys this morning, and one of the questions was something like "Have you ever kissed someone who's name begins with an M or an R?" The person's reply was "Not sure".
That saddens me. It makes me so glad that I can say I've only kissed one guy so far in my 17 years. It shows how special I think they are. (I'm talking about the kisses, not the guy, although the guy is pretty special too. Lol)
I think it's a sad thing when someone can't remember the names of all the people they've kissed, even at 17 or 18 years old.
That's all.
That saddens me. It makes me so glad that I can say I've only kissed one guy so far in my 17 years. It shows how special I think they are. (I'm talking about the kisses, not the guy, although the guy is pretty special too. Lol)
I think it's a sad thing when someone can't remember the names of all the people they've kissed, even at 17 or 18 years old.
That's all.
Monday, April 13, 2009
And I thought I take sin too lightly sometimes...
I guess it was just kind of shocking to me. Not what those people were doing, but how other people treated it. I'm disappointed in them, honestly. I had thought that they stood for something more than that, but I guess not.
I didn't believe Val when he said I would see a different side of people, but I guess maybe he was right. Not that I've never seen that stuff, but it made me remember why I've worked so hard to watch where I go and who I hang out with. Last night just showed me that maybe I care about sin more than I thought I did, which is a good thing. I just don't understand how someone can stand up for someone else and protect them when they make the same mistakes over and over again. It's like they're just protecting the sin...saying "Yeah, what they're doing is wrong, but it's okay. They can't help it." And really, THAT'S wrong.
I don't know...it was interesting. I hate that I sound like some sheltered little goodie-goodie, but I suppose in reality that's what I am. I think I'm thankful for that, and I can only pray that I won't ever put myself in a position to defend someone else's sin, or my own for that matter.
Later.
-------------------------------
I just thought I would come back and clear this up a little, because I realize it's very confusing if you don't already know what I'm talking about. Tonight at youth group David's message struck my heart because of what I'm talking about in this very entry. He was talking about Romans chapters 1 and 12, and how the sins of the Romans are the very same sins of today, if not even MORE applicable. Romans 1:32 says "Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them." Ouch. The second I read that verse tonight I knew I was in for a lesson from God.
Sunday night I went to the beach with some of my friends, but also with some people I don't normally hang out with. I wasn't really sure about it at first because I'm usually very careful about who I hang around, but I thought "Ehh, why not? It couldn't hurt to try hanging with some new people..." At first I was having fun and stuff, but then some of them broke out the alcohol and started smoking. After awhile, they were drunk and making out with each other and stuff, and I was completely blown away. However, not because of their actions necessarily--I've seen that stuff before. I was disappointed in the attitude that my friends had about it. They basically laughed it off, saying there was nothing you can do about it...it was whatever to them. I disagreed completely, especially when at least one was a relative of my friends. I felt like they should have cared more about what those people were doing to themselves rather than how they were going to hide it from their parents. It just kind of shocked me that the friends of mine that I thought I looked up to would have such a nonchalant view of something the bible teaches is so dangerous. Wow, that's a mouthful--sorry. At the time, I thought well, since I don't really know them, I can't really do anything about it. And maybe that's true to a degree, but looking back I feel like there were times where I could have taken a stronger stand against it.
Hopefully that makes things a little clearer without putting everyones business out there. While it certainly is not my job to be a tattletale and call people out on here, I certainly am not going to protect them by hiding what they were doing. Perhaps if they're that concerned they shouldn't have been doing it at all. And don't give me peer pressure as an excuse. It's a lame one, since there were others of us who didn't have anything to do with it. Don't beg me not to be mad at you. Yeah, I'm disappointed. Granted, I didn't expect much else, but I'm still disappointed.
And you all...I thought you stood for more than that?
God, please give me the courage to stand up for what's right when I need to. Help me put aside that fear of confrontation not only for you, but for the people who are sinning. Help me lose the fear of confronting MYSELF when I sin.
I love you God, and I'm sorry that I'm a lame witness for you so often.
I guess it was just kind of shocking to me. Not what those people were doing, but how other people treated it. I'm disappointed in them, honestly. I had thought that they stood for something more than that, but I guess not.
I didn't believe Val when he said I would see a different side of people, but I guess maybe he was right. Not that I've never seen that stuff, but it made me remember why I've worked so hard to watch where I go and who I hang out with. Last night just showed me that maybe I care about sin more than I thought I did, which is a good thing. I just don't understand how someone can stand up for someone else and protect them when they make the same mistakes over and over again. It's like they're just protecting the sin...saying "Yeah, what they're doing is wrong, but it's okay. They can't help it." And really, THAT'S wrong.
I don't know...it was interesting. I hate that I sound like some sheltered little goodie-goodie, but I suppose in reality that's what I am. I think I'm thankful for that, and I can only pray that I won't ever put myself in a position to defend someone else's sin, or my own for that matter.
Later.
-------------------------------
I just thought I would come back and clear this up a little, because I realize it's very confusing if you don't already know what I'm talking about. Tonight at youth group David's message struck my heart because of what I'm talking about in this very entry. He was talking about Romans chapters 1 and 12, and how the sins of the Romans are the very same sins of today, if not even MORE applicable. Romans 1:32 says "Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them." Ouch. The second I read that verse tonight I knew I was in for a lesson from God.
Sunday night I went to the beach with some of my friends, but also with some people I don't normally hang out with. I wasn't really sure about it at first because I'm usually very careful about who I hang around, but I thought "Ehh, why not? It couldn't hurt to try hanging with some new people..." At first I was having fun and stuff, but then some of them broke out the alcohol and started smoking. After awhile, they were drunk and making out with each other and stuff, and I was completely blown away. However, not because of their actions necessarily--I've seen that stuff before. I was disappointed in the attitude that my friends had about it. They basically laughed it off, saying there was nothing you can do about it...it was whatever to them. I disagreed completely, especially when at least one was a relative of my friends. I felt like they should have cared more about what those people were doing to themselves rather than how they were going to hide it from their parents. It just kind of shocked me that the friends of mine that I thought I looked up to would have such a nonchalant view of something the bible teaches is so dangerous. Wow, that's a mouthful--sorry. At the time, I thought well, since I don't really know them, I can't really do anything about it. And maybe that's true to a degree, but looking back I feel like there were times where I could have taken a stronger stand against it.
Hopefully that makes things a little clearer without putting everyones business out there. While it certainly is not my job to be a tattletale and call people out on here, I certainly am not going to protect them by hiding what they were doing. Perhaps if they're that concerned they shouldn't have been doing it at all. And don't give me peer pressure as an excuse. It's a lame one, since there were others of us who didn't have anything to do with it. Don't beg me not to be mad at you. Yeah, I'm disappointed. Granted, I didn't expect much else, but I'm still disappointed.
And you all...I thought you stood for more than that?
God, please give me the courage to stand up for what's right when I need to. Help me put aside that fear of confrontation not only for you, but for the people who are sinning. Help me lose the fear of confronting MYSELF when I sin.
I love you God, and I'm sorry that I'm a lame witness for you so often.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
It's funny how you think you understand a concept of something, and then God does something that shows you maybe you don't have a clue. It's neat, too, when you can see what it is God might be doing behind the scenes in your life and in your heart .
Today, the youth who are going on the missions trip to Guatemala had our second yard sale to raise money for the trip. This past week has been absolutely hectic trying to get ready. After our first yard sale, we had a lot of stuff left over, but not enough to have another sale with just that--we needed more stuff. So, in an attempt to gather enough donations, Rachel called through the entire church directory asking for donations of their old junk, and word spread fast. There were plenty of people calling Rachel back asking us to pick their stuff up, and even more were bypassing us completely and taking their stuff straight to Ms. Mary's house where we had the sale. This was all within the past week and a half or so, though. Before then, it looked as though we wouldn't have enough stuff, and that the second sale would be a flop. I spent tons of time praying about this, asking that God would bless our efforts, and that he would provide us with the stuff to sell and the people to buy, and I knew God was going to give us far more than the $900 from last time. Because of this, I was not concerned very much with the looks of things leading into the sale. I trusted that God would follow through, and simply continued to do my best to get things ready.
I am no amature at holding yard sales. My mom has been doing them my entire life, so I've picked up quite a few things from her. However, our sale today was hands down one of the most interesting ones I have ever experienced. From the time we started setting up, we were swamped with people! By about 9:00 AM, we had witnessed a screaming (apparently dissatisfied) customer and a woman peeing behind a truck in Ms. Mary's yard, but we had made $550! Later in the afternoon, we were all witnesses of a hit and run, but no one was hurt. Two people left our sale and backed into a parked pickup across the street, then took off. The owner of the truck didn't even know! We called the sherriff's office for him and reported it, because although we didn't get a plate number, we had a description of the vehicle and the people. Whether or not they eventually get caught doesn't matter. As long as the guy's insurance covers the damage.
In all, our final amount was $1443.04!! Praise God! That is so exciting! I told my friend that while I am completely amazed by what God has done for us, I'm not shocked at all because like I said before, I KNEW without a doubt that God would bless us far beyond what we raised the last time.
Ahh, it's great. I love I have God to live for.
Today, the youth who are going on the missions trip to Guatemala had our second yard sale to raise money for the trip. This past week has been absolutely hectic trying to get ready. After our first yard sale, we had a lot of stuff left over, but not enough to have another sale with just that--we needed more stuff. So, in an attempt to gather enough donations, Rachel called through the entire church directory asking for donations of their old junk, and word spread fast. There were plenty of people calling Rachel back asking us to pick their stuff up, and even more were bypassing us completely and taking their stuff straight to Ms. Mary's house where we had the sale. This was all within the past week and a half or so, though. Before then, it looked as though we wouldn't have enough stuff, and that the second sale would be a flop. I spent tons of time praying about this, asking that God would bless our efforts, and that he would provide us with the stuff to sell and the people to buy, and I knew God was going to give us far more than the $900 from last time. Because of this, I was not concerned very much with the looks of things leading into the sale. I trusted that God would follow through, and simply continued to do my best to get things ready.
I am no amature at holding yard sales. My mom has been doing them my entire life, so I've picked up quite a few things from her. However, our sale today was hands down one of the most interesting ones I have ever experienced. From the time we started setting up, we were swamped with people! By about 9:00 AM, we had witnessed a screaming (apparently dissatisfied) customer and a woman peeing behind a truck in Ms. Mary's yard, but we had made $550! Later in the afternoon, we were all witnesses of a hit and run, but no one was hurt. Two people left our sale and backed into a parked pickup across the street, then took off. The owner of the truck didn't even know! We called the sherriff's office for him and reported it, because although we didn't get a plate number, we had a description of the vehicle and the people. Whether or not they eventually get caught doesn't matter. As long as the guy's insurance covers the damage.
In all, our final amount was $1443.04!! Praise God! That is so exciting! I told my friend that while I am completely amazed by what God has done for us, I'm not shocked at all because like I said before, I KNEW without a doubt that God would bless us far beyond what we raised the last time.
Ahh, it's great. I love I have God to live for.
Friday, February 27, 2009
The heart breaking makes a sound
I never knew could be
So beautiful and loud
Fury filled and we collide
So courageous until now
Fumbling and scared
So afraid You'll find me out
Alone here with my doubt
Here it comes, a beautiful collision
Is happening now.
There seems no end to
where You begin and there I am now
You and I collide
Something circling inside,
Spaciously you flyInfinite and wide,
Like the moon and sky
Collide
Here it comes, a beautiful collision
Is happening now.
There seems no end to where you begin and there I am now
You and I, collide
Yeah Yeah Yeah
Here it comes, Here it comes, Here it comes now
Feel it coming on, Feel it coming on now, Here it comes now
[David Crowder Band]
I never knew could be
So beautiful and loud
Fury filled and we collide
So courageous until now
Fumbling and scared
So afraid You'll find me out
Alone here with my doubt
Here it comes, a beautiful collision
Is happening now.
There seems no end to
where You begin and there I am now
You and I collide
Something circling inside,
Spaciously you flyInfinite and wide,
Like the moon and sky
Collide
Here it comes, a beautiful collision
Is happening now.
There seems no end to where you begin and there I am now
You and I, collide
Yeah Yeah Yeah
Here it comes, Here it comes, Here it comes now
Feel it coming on, Feel it coming on now, Here it comes now
[David Crowder Band]
Sunday, February 22, 2009
This past Friday night the youth met at the church for a prayer service. It was the first time we had ever done anything like that, and I'll tell you what--It was GREAT. I was really excited to go, because I wanted to see what it would be like. I expected for it to be group prayer, but instead we all separated around the sanctuary and prayed by ourselves. David had PowerPoint slides that would change every now and then, structuring our prayer time and telling us what to pray for and how long. It was very interesting, because for one, I cannot say that I have prayed for an hour straight before. Two, having that set amount of time to pray for a certain thing really challenged me. Normally when I pray, I find myself saying the same things over and over again, and therefore just ending quickly. But this time, I was challenged to draw it out, and find new, creative ways to tell God what he means to me. It was definitely an awesome experience for me, and I can't wait to do it again. Although, by saying that I do not wish to imply that that's the only time I'm going to pray that way. I learned that I need to (and want to) work at my personal prayer life, and that I can do all of that in my bedroom--it doesn't have to be in a sanctuary with other people to focus on intense prayer...
Today, David preached for all three services at church, and I think it was a really good sermon. He was talking about the importance of a good foundation, and how in life, that means basing everything on Jesus. He also talked about the difference between good, spiritual people, and GODLY people. I somehow managed to leave my bible at home, so I couldn't take notes, but I managed to remember a few things. There was one thing he said towards the end of his sermon, though, that had my name written all over it, but now I can't remember what that was for the life of me!
Well, I haven't had much sleep since Friday night, so I'm out for the night.
Until later,
Courtney
Today, David preached for all three services at church, and I think it was a really good sermon. He was talking about the importance of a good foundation, and how in life, that means basing everything on Jesus. He also talked about the difference between good, spiritual people, and GODLY people. I somehow managed to leave my bible at home, so I couldn't take notes, but I managed to remember a few things. There was one thing he said towards the end of his sermon, though, that had my name written all over it, but now I can't remember what that was for the life of me!
Well, I haven't had much sleep since Friday night, so I'm out for the night.
Until later,
Courtney
Friday, February 20, 2009
We're covering the topic of evolution in my AP Biology class right now, and it got me thinking about what I believe. I know without a doubt that I believe what the Bible says about creation--we were created by God, for God. The thing is, I don't know enough about evolution and the like to determine whether I think its fully false or not. I'm sure that there's a chance that parts of the theory fit in with Creationism, I just don't know what/where...
Anyways, today Mr. Toms said something that caught my attention. He said something along the lines of there being 63 common amino acids among all organisms, and that it is this commonality that helps to point toward the evolution of all organisms from one, common source.
This got me thinking. Yes, perhaps this is true and that is the case. But, maybe it's something else. Maybe it is not a common SOURCE (as in 'organism') that explains this, but a common CREATOR. Just as artists have their own signature style and technique, God has signed his work with amazing simplicities, such as common amino acids or symbols of the cross in outer space.
^ The Whirlpool Galaxy ^
Anyways, today Mr. Toms said something that caught my attention. He said something along the lines of there being 63 common amino acids among all organisms, and that it is this commonality that helps to point toward the evolution of all organisms from one, common source.
This got me thinking. Yes, perhaps this is true and that is the case. But, maybe it's something else. Maybe it is not a common SOURCE (as in 'organism') that explains this, but a common CREATOR. Just as artists have their own signature style and technique, God has signed his work with amazing simplicities, such as common amino acids or symbols of the cross in outer space.
^ The Whirlpool Galaxy ^
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
No money.
Sunrises.
Little children.
Backpacks.
Prayer.
South America.
Hospitality.
Photography.
Cool winds.
This is what I want.
Not knowing.
Faith.
Fear.
Fearless.
Europe.
New people.
Learning.
Culture.
Hard work.
This is what I want.
Language.
Love.
Helping.
Healing.
Rainforest.
Gondolas.
Trust.
Feeling.
Planting.
This is what I want.
The Unknown.
Blessed are.
No place here.
Boundary-less.
Waiting.
Seeing.
Depth.
Living.
Reaping.
This is what I want.
Wisdom.
Truth.
Imperfection.
Obsession.
Foundation.
The uncertain.
Africa.
Prov31.
Eternity.
This is what I want.
But, what does God have planned for me?
Sunrises.
Little children.
Backpacks.
Prayer.
South America.
Hospitality.
Photography.
Cool winds.
This is what I want.
Not knowing.
Faith.
Fear.
Fearless.
Europe.
New people.
Learning.
Culture.
Hard work.
This is what I want.
Language.
Love.
Helping.
Healing.
Rainforest.
Gondolas.
Trust.
Feeling.
Planting.
This is what I want.
The Unknown.
Blessed are.
No place here.
Boundary-less.
Waiting.
Seeing.
Depth.
Living.
Reaping.
This is what I want.
Wisdom.
Truth.
Imperfection.
Obsession.
Foundation.
The uncertain.
Africa.
Prov31.
Eternity.
This is what I want.
But, what does God have planned for me?
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Earlier at youth I was thanking God for being so big. I told him that I loved that about him--that he was not confined to a certain country, race, age, or language. I told him that I loved being able to worship him in spanish, and that for me, its a totally different experience than in english. Not better, not worse--just perfect within its own beauty. I realize that not everyone is as passionate about spanish as I am--in fact, I have yet to meet anyone who is. I probably drive my family crazy! Especially Erin. I sing worship songs in spanish to her ALL the time, and I'm nearly positive it drives her crazy. But goodness, it excites me so much to be able to worship God through a talent he has blessed me with. It gives me such a sense of...fullness, like at that particular moment, when its just me and God and whatever spanish I might be able to talk to him in, and it seems so perfect. Like I'm right where I'm supposed to be.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Oh, I love how Jesus captures my heart, and I love how he can do it through other things I enjoy! Awhile back I posted a blog about the song "Came to My Resue" by Hillsong...I love that song--especially the verse I had highlighted. Well, on Sunday night, while I was taking a break from schoolwork, I was looking for new Christian spanish artists to add to my collection, and I came across an album Hillsong had released COMPLETELY in spanish. "Came to My Rescue" was on there, and the first thing I thought was "NO. WAY!!" Sho nuff...
So, now that I've learned it, it's been stuck in my head all day! I'm gunna be the weirdo at youth that sings it in spanish while everyone else sings it in english. Lol...
Oh well. I love spanish so much! Earlier today David called me an "uh-oh coconut"--white on the outside, brown on the inside. Hahahaa
So, now that I've learned it, it's been stuck in my head all day! I'm gunna be the weirdo at youth that sings it in spanish while everyone else sings it in english. Lol...
Oh well. I love spanish so much! Earlier today David called me an "uh-oh coconut"--white on the outside, brown on the inside. Hahahaa
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