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NEW BLOG

2010-08-17T20:22:00.001-07:00

http://www.aprilmaejunebug.blogspot.com/

The Glories of the Cross - Sovereign Grace Music

2010-06-10T07:04:00.000-07:00

What wisdom once devised the plan
Where all our sin and pride
Was placed upon the perfect Lamb
Who suffered, bled, and died?
The wisdom of a Sovereign God
Whose greatness will be shown
When those who crucified Your Son
Rejoice around Your throne

And, oh, the glory of the cross
That You would send Your Son for us
I gladly count my life as loss
That I might come to know
The glory of, the glory of the cross

What righteousness was there revealed
That sets the guilty free
That justifies ungodly men
And calls the filthy clean?
A righteousness that proved to all
Your justice has been met
And holy wrath is satisfied
Through one atoning death

And, oh, the glory of the cross
That You would send Your Son for us
I gladly count my life as loss
That I might come to know
The glory of, the glory of the cross

What mercy now has been proclaimed
For those who would believe
A love incomprehensible
Our minds could not conceive?
A mercy that forgives my sin
Then makes me like Your Son
And now I’m loved forevermore
Because of what You’ve done

The Words I Would Say

2010-05-25T17:56:00.000-07:00

This makes me think of you!

Too Close To Home

2010-05-09T00:15:00.000-07:00

"Why" - Rascal Flatts

You must have been in a
Place so dark
You couldn't feel the light
Reachin' for you through
That stormy cloud
Now here we are
Gathered in our little hometown
This can't be the way
You meant to draw a crowd

Oh why, that's what I keep asking
Was there anything I could've
Said or done
Oh, I had no clue you were
Masking
A troubled soul, God only knows
What went wrong and why
You would leave the stage
In the middle of a song

Now in my mind I'll keep you frozen
As a seventeen-year-old
Rounding third to score the
Winning run
You always played with passion
No matter what the game
When you took the stage
You'd shine just like the sun

Oh why, that's what I keep asking
Was there anything I could've
Said or done
Oh, I had no clue you were
Masking
A troubled soul, God only knows
What went wrong and why
You would leave the stage
In the middle of a song

Now the oak trees are swaying
In the early autumn breeze
A golden sun is shining on my face
Through tangled thoughts
I hear a mockingbird sing
This old world really ain't that
Bad of a place

Oh why, there's no comprehending
And who am I to try to
Judge or explain
Oh, but I do have one
Burning question
Who told you life wasn't
Worth the fight
They were wrong, they lied
Now you're gone and we cry
'Cause it's not like you to
Walk away
In the middle of a song

Your beautiful song
Your absolutely beautiful song

The Room

2010-04-24T22:17:00.000-07:00

"In that place between wakefulness and dreams, I found myself in the room. There were no distinguishing features except for the one wall covered with small index card files. They were like the ones in libraries that list titles by author or subject in alphabetical order. But these files, which stretched from floor to ceiling and seemingly endless in either direction, had very different headings.

As I drew near the wall of files, the first to catch my attention was one that read “Girls I have liked.” I opened it and began flipping through the cards. I quickly shut it, shocked to realize that I recognized the names written on each one. And then without being told, I knew exactly where I was. This lifeless room with its small files was a crude catalog system for my life. Here were written the actions of my every moment, big and small, in a detail my memory couldn’t match. A sense of wonder and curiosity, coupled with horror, stirred within me as I began randomly opening files and exploring their content. Some brought joy and sweet memories; others a sense of shame and regret so intense that I would look over my shoulder to see if anyone was watching.

A file named “Friends” was next to one marked “Friends I have betrayed.” The titles ranged from the mundane to the outright weird. “Books I Have Read,” “Lies I Have Told,” “Comfort I have Given,” “Jokes I Have Laughed at.”

Some were almost hilarious in their exactness: “Things I’ve yelled at my brothers.” Others I couldn’t laugh at: “Things I Have Done in My Anger”, “Things I Have Muttered Under My Breath at My Parents.” I never ceased to be surprised by the contents Often there were many more cards than expected. Sometimes fewer than I hoped. I was overwhelmed by the sheer volume of the life I had lived.

Could it be possible that I had the time in my years to fill each of these thousands or even millions of cards? But each card confirmed this truth. Each was written in my own handwriting. Each signed with my signature.

When I pulled out the file marked “TV Shows I have watched,” I realized the files grew to contain their contents. The cards were packed tightly, and yet after two or three yards, I hadn’t found the end of the file. I shut it, shamed, not so much by the quality of shows but more by the vast time I knew that file represented.

When I came to a file marked “Lustful Thoughts,” I felt a chill run through my body. I pulled the file out only an inch, not willing to test its size, and drew out a card. I shuddered at its detailed content. I felt sick to think that such a moment had been recorded. An almost animal rage broke on me.

One thought dominated my mind: No one must ever see these cards! No one must ever see this room! I have to destroy them!” In insane frenzy I yanked the file out. Its size didn’t matter now. I had to empty it and burn the cards…
But as I took it at one end and began pounding it on the floor, I could not dislodge a single card. I became desperate and pulled out a card, only to find it as strong as steel when I tried to tear it. Defeated and utterly helpless, I returned the file to its slot. Leaning my forehead against the wall, I let out a long, self-pitying sigh.

And then I saw it. The title bore “People I Have Shared the Gospel With.” The handle was brighter than those around it, newer, almost unused. I pulled on its handle and a small box not more than three inches long fell into my hands. I could count the cards it contained on one hand.
And then the tears came. I began to weep. Sobs so deep that they hurt. They started in my stomach and shook through me. I fell on my knees and cried. I cried out of shame, from the overwhelming shame of it all. The rows of file shelves swirled in my tear-filled eyes.. No one must ever, ever know of this room. I must lock it up and hide the key. But then as I pushed away the tears, I saw Him.

No, please not Him. Not here. Oh, anyone but Jesus. I watched helplessly as He began to open the files and read the cards. I couldn’t bear to watch His response. And in the moments I could bring myself to look at His face, I saw a sorrow deeper than my own. He seemed to intuitively go to the worst boxes.
Why did He have to read every one? Finally He turned and looked at me from across the room. He looked at me with pity in His eyes. But this was a pity that didn’t anger me. I dropped my head, covered my face with my hands and began to cry again. He walked over and put His arm around me. He could have said so many things. But He didn’t say a word. He just cried with me.

Then He got up and walked back to the wall of files. Starting at one end of the room, He took out a file and, one by one, began to sign His name over mine on each card. “No!” I shouted rushing to Him. All I could find to say was “No, no,” as I pulled the card from Him.. His name shouldn’t be on these cards. But there it was, written in red so rich, so dark, and so alive.
The name of Jesus covered mine. It was written with His blood. He gently took the card back He smiled a sad smile and began to sign the cards. I don’t think I’ll ever understand how He did it so quickly, but the next instant it seemed I heard Him close the last file and walk back to my side. He placed His hand on my shoulder and said, “It is finished.”

I stood up, and He led me out of the room. There was no lock on its door. There were still cards to be written."

(Author Unknown)

He Drank Damnation Dry

2010-03-24T09:34:00.000-07:00

He drank it all up! -- C.H. Spurgeon

When Christ died, he took all the sins of all his people,
past, present, and to come, and when the whole mass
was condensed into one bitter cup, he drank it all up.

"At one tremendous draught of love," leaving not so
much as a single drop of wormwood or gall for any
of his people to drink.

The whole of the tremendous debt!
The whole of the tremendous debt
was put upon his shoulders.
The whole weight of the sins of all
his people was placed upon him.

Once he seemed to stagger under it--
"Father, if it is possible..."

But then he stood upright--
"Nevertheless, not my will, but your will be done."

The whole of the punishment of his people was distilled into
one cup-- no mortal lip might give it so much as a solitary sip.

When he put it to his own lips, it was so bitter, that he
well nigh spurned it-- "Let this cup pass from me..."

But his love for his people was so strong,
that he took the cup in both his hands, and
"At one tremendous draught of love
he drank damnation dry,"
for all of his people.

He drank it all, he endured it all, he suffered it all;
so that now forever there are no flames of hell;
no racks of torment; and no eternal woes for them.

Jesus has suffered all that they ought to have suffered,
and they must, they shall go free!

Hast Thou No Scar?

2010-03-12T20:54:00.000-08:00

Hast thou no scar?

No hidden scar on foot, or side, or hand?

I hear thee sung as mighty in the land;

I hear them hail thy bright, ascendant star.

Hast thou no scar?

Hast thou no wound?

Yet I was wounded by the archers; spent,

Leaned Me against a tree to die; and rent

By ravening beasts that compassed Me, I swooned.

Hast thou no wound?

No wound? No scar?

Yet, as the Master shall the servant be,

And piercèd are the feet that follow Me.

But thine are whole; can he have followed far

Who hast no wound or scar?

-- Amy Carmichael

Chelsea King

2010-03-01T23:09:00.000-08:00

I am so upset.

If you haven't heard already, a 17 year old girl from the San Diego area went missing on Feb. 25th, while she was out running. Since she went missing, police have found much evidence linking her disappearance to a registered sex offender who lived in the area. And based on the evidence, they believe that he raped and murdered her.

This is so horrible! This selfish and disgusting man took a sweet 17 year old girl, into his possession, and completely defamed her. He might have taken her life. I hate this sin. I hate the thought that this girl, while she was out running, was taken and hurt. I hate that people like this man are living here. I hate that this man, previously took advantage of a 13 year old girl in 2000, spent 6 years in jail for it, but still feels no remorse for it. How could someone do something so sick and feel no guilt from it?! I am so angry with sin!!!!

Here is what gets me, what this girl was doing- running in daylight- is something that I, and many other girls do daily. If one man decided to take her, then many other men could make the same decision and take others. Today while running, I took the short way, because I was just too scared that something could happen. I do believe in the protection of the Lord, but I also believe in His sovereignty- He allows certain things to happen and promises to use the bad for good- even somethng like this.

I want SO badly for sweet Chelsea to be found, alive and able to recooperate. I want her to be able to live from this and know that the Lord is sovereign and all-loving. I want her to know the healing power of Chirst. But the eveidence in the news makes it seem like a very impossible reality. They have not found her, but the police are speculating that she is already dead.

I am so upset by this. I hate that she had to go through something so horrible. :(

Girls, be careful when you go our running. Take your phone and even pepperspray with you. I always run with my phone in my hand, and it doesnt bother me at all. Its better to be safe than not.

I want the Lord to come back and make all things new. I want Him to restore peace and protection.

Old Poem

2010-02-27T16:51:00.000-08:00

She was full of the power and the blinding glow of God.
Every word she spoke, was like treasures flowing from her mouth.
Respected by all. Every part of her.

She started to change... Not so powerful, not so bright.
She seemed to be holding back.
For quite a while at that.
Comfort set in.

Then, out of no where, she pulls out her secret weapon,
And throws it with all of her might.
It hit more powerful than ever.
Penetrating my very soul.

There is power in truth.
Respect has been restored.
I know my place.
God IS powerful.

What Sweet Fellowship We Once Shared

2010-02-24T09:56:00.000-08:00

"For it is not an enemy who reproaches me; then I could bear it. Nor is it one who hates me who has exalted himself against me; then I could hide from him. But it was you, a man my equal, my companion and my acquaintance. We took sweet counsel together, and walked to the house of God in the throng."
-- Psalm 55:12-14 (NKJV)

"It is not an enemy who taunts me— I could bear that. It is not my foes who so arrogantly insult me— I could have hidden from them. Instead, it is you—my equal, my companion and close friend. What good fellowship we once enjoyed as we walked together to the house of God."
-- Psalm 55:12-14 (NLT)

God's word speaks truth. It explains our deepest pain, but it gives us sweet hope as well:

""But I will hope continually, and will praise You yet more and more. My mouth shall tell of Your righteousness and your salvation all the day, for I do not know their limits. I will go in the strength of the Lord God; I will make mention of Your righteousness, of Yours only." -- Psalm 71:14-16 (NKJV)

"I will go in the strength of the Lord God; I will make mention of Your righteousness, of Your's only..."

Unashamed At His Coming

2010-02-22T23:16:00.000-08:00

Hoping that this ministers to you!

Psalm

2010-02-13T12:32:00.001-08:00

"But I will hope continually, and will praise You yet more and more. My mouth shall tell of Your righteousness and your salvation all the day, for I do not know their limits. I will go in the strength of the Lord God; I will make mention of Your righteousness, of Yours only." -- Psalm 71:14-16

Its Finally Him

2010-02-13T10:13:00.000-08:00

"On Christ the solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand; all other ground is sinking sand."

How true this statement is to me... to everyone. When you stand on any ground other than God, you will sink. Stand ONLY on the Solidity of Christ- our Rock. He is the only sure, and safe ground to stand. He is the only one to trust completely. He is the only one who will never let you down in any way. You must not put your faith and trust in man, because man is just that... they are human and not God. They are flawed, just as you are. Christ ALONE has the words of eternal life. Christ ALONE knows the answer to all of your questions. Christ ALONE must be the one to comfort and console you. Christ ALONE must be the one that gets every bit of your attention. Because ANYTHING apart from Him, no matter how good it may seem, will not satisfy you the way that the perfect love of Christ will.

"NOW I've found, that greatest love of all is mine. Since You laid down Your life, the greatest sacrifice. MAJESTY!"

Its Finally Him.

God's Love For Israel

2010-02-11T12:47:00.001-08:00

"When Israel was a child, I loved him,
and out of Egypt I called my son.
But the more I called Israel,
the further they went from me.
They sacrificed to the Baals
and they burned incense to images.

It was I who taught Ephraim to walk,
taking them by the arms;
but they did not realize
it was I who healed them.

I led them with cords of human kindness,
with ties of love;
I lifted the yoke from their neck
and bent down to feed them.

"Will they not return to Egypt
and will not Assyria rule over them
because they refuse to repent?

Swords will flash in their cities,
will destroy the bars of their gates
and put an end to their plans.

My people are determined to turn from me.
Even if they call to the Most High,
he will by no means exalt them.

"How can I give you up, Ephraim?
How can I hand you over, Israel?
How can I treat you like Admah?
How can I make you like Zeboiim?
My heart is changed within me;
all my compassion is aroused.

I will not carry out my fierce anger,
nor will I turn and devastate Ephraim.
For I am God, and not man—
the Holy One among you.
I will not come in wrath. "

-- Hosea 11:1-9

I am overwhelmed. His love for His child- me, is perfect! He is so compassionate and gentle. "How can I give you up, Ephriam?... My heart is changed within me; all my compassion is aroused." He has truly been so merciful to us. He is perfect in His love and ALL His ways. What perfect and unchanging love!

Idols- Is God Your Everything?

2010-02-04T14:08:00.000-08:00

Every sin stands as an idol, going before the Lord your God... Are you willing to fight against every idol in your life, to worship and love YHWH-God alone?

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T09:41:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!! :)

I am so thankful that we are able to celebrate the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ! But I can't help but think about the cross. The precious redeeming blood of Jesus- the one who's birth we celebrate today- covers me and allows me to stand justified before the Lord! For that, I am thankful. He was born to die and redeem His captive children!

"Forever etched upon my mind, is the look of Him who died, the Lamb I crucified. And now my life will sing the praise of pure atoning grace that looked on me and gladly took my place."

Thank You, Jesus!!!

Jesus, my only Hope

2009-12-11T12:00:00.000-08:00

Jesus, My Only Hope- Sovereign Grace

I come into Your presence
With nothing in my hands
I only bring thanksgiving
For Jesus, God and Man
I cast myself on mercy
I cast myself on love
I trust Your gracious promise
To wash me with Your blood

I will not fear Your judgment
For me, no wrath I dread
For it was spent on Jesus
Poured out upon His head
When Satan’s accusations
Make my poor heart afraid
I hear my King declaring
“Father, that debt is paid”

Jesus my only hope, my only plea
My righteousness, my Great High Priest
Who intercedes for me before the throne
Jesus, I trust in You alone

I can't think of much more to say about Jesus than what this song says about Him. He is my only hope, plea, righteousness, Great High Priest, my Intercessor... He is my King!!! My life only has meaning in Him and through His cross! I am rejoicing in His redemption! :) I am so thankful for the pure, atoning blood of Jesus, that covers me from head to toe in His righteousness!!! Praise God!!! :)

Romans 7

2009-12-06T05:19:00.000-08:00

"O law, Christ is my righteousness, my treasure, and my work; I confess, O law, that I am neither godly nor righteous, but yet this I am sure of, that he is godly and righteous for me." - Luther

Love Based Repentance

2009-12-01T09:01:00.000-08:00

“In fear-based repentance, we don’t learn to hate the sin for itself, and it doesn’t lose its attractive power. We learn only to refrain from it for our own sake. But when we rejoice over God’s sacrificial, suffering love for us – seeing what it cost him to save us from sin – we learn to hate the sin for what it is. We see what the sin cost God. What most assures us of God’s unconditional love (Jesus’s costly death) is what most convicts us of the evil of sin. Fear-based repentance makes us hate ourselves. Joy-bases repentance makes us hate the sin.”
- Timothy Keller

Jesus is not safe, but He is good.

2009-11-28T11:51:00.000-08:00

"Who is this who comes from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah, this One who is glorious in His apparel, traveling in His garments of strength?-- 'I who speak in righteousness, mighty to save.' Why is Your apparel red, and Your garments like the one who treads in the winepress? 'I have trodden them in My anger, and trampled them in My fury; their blood is sprinkled upon My garments, and I have stained all My robes. For the day of vengeance is in My heart, and the year of My redeemed has come. I looked but there was no one to help, and I wondered there there was no one to uphold; Therefore, My own arm brought salvation for Me, and My own fury, it sustained me. I have trodden down the peoples in My anger, made them drunk in My fury, and brought down their strength to the earth." --- Isaiah 63:1-6

"Who is this- friend or foe? Why is His clothing spattered red? Has He been treading grapes in a winepress? Has He been making wine? Could the explanation be that simple and assuring? No. He has been taking vengeance on His enemies. He's been fighting for redemption. And He's done is all alone- not with a great army, but all by Himself. We didn't help Him. We don't even see Him until His victory is already complete. Look at Him out there, the way He's approaching us marching in the greatness of His strength. He's not even tired. He's energized, He's awesome, He is terrible in His wrath."
- Raymond C. Ortlund

Jesus- the Lion- is not safe, but He is good.

"Do not call conspiracy all that this people call conspiracy, and do not fear what they fear, nor be in dread. But the Lord of hosts, Him you shall honor as holy. Let Him be your fear, and Let Him be your dread." - Isaiah 8:12,13

How Sweet The Name Of Jesus Sounds

2009-11-26T07:56:00.000-08:00

How sweet the Name of Jesus sounds

in a believer's ear!

It soothes his sorrows, heals his wounds,

and drives away his fear.

It makes the wounded spirit whole,

and calms the troubled breast;

'tis manna to the hungry soul,

and to the weary, rest.

Dear Name, the rock on which I build,

my shield and hiding-place,

my never-failing treasury,

filled with boundless stores of grace!

Jesus! my Shepherd, Brother, Friend,

my Prophet, Priest and King,

my Lord, my Life, my Way, my End,

accept the praise I bring.

Weak is the effort of my heart,
and cold my warmest thought;

but when I see thee as thou art,

I'll praise thee as I ought.

Till then I would thy love proclaim

with every fleeting breath;

and may the music of thy Name

refresh my soul in death!

What Makes You Differ?

2009-11-24T11:42:00.000-08:00

“Christian! the only thing that makes you differ from the vilest being that pollutes the earth, or from the darkest fiend that gnaws his chains in hell, is the free grace of God!”

- Octavius Winslow

He Holds The Keys!

2009-11-23T12:31:00.000-08:00

“He laid his right hand on me, saying, ‘Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, and the Living One; and I was dead, and look! I am alive forever and ever, and I have the keys of death and Hades’” (Revelation 1:17-18).

Literally, Jesus says, ‘Stop being afraid..’ Why? Because Jesus Christ has walked into the gaping jaws of the greatest enemy there is. On the cross he let all the powers that threaten to undo us have their unrestrained way with him. He let death take him captive. And then he burst out of the prison and carried away the prison keys!”

- Darrell W. Johnson

What A Friend We Have In Jesus

2009-11-20T16:43:00.000-08:00

What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear!

What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!

O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,

All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.

Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?

We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer.

Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share?

Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy laden. cumbered with a load of care?

Precious Savior, still our refuge, take it to the Lord in prayer.

Do your friends despise, forsake you? Take it to the Lord in prayer!

In His arms He'll take and shield yo; you will find a solace there.

Blessed Savior, Thou hast promised Thou wilt all our burden bear

May we ever, Lord, be bringing all to Thee in earnest prayer.

Soon in glory bright unclouded there will be no need for prayer

Rapture, praise, and endless worship will be our sweetest portion there!

In Your Presence

2009-11-12T06:40:00.000-08:00

"Here in Your presence, we are undone."

What does it mean to be undone in the presence of God? I think of our reputations or "masks". The ones we strive to build tall and beautiful- unshakable and "strong". They are what people see and know us by. Reputations are walls built around who we really are, to hide what we don't think is good enough to be accepted or loved.

But, in the presence of God, the locks of our reputations and our guards are undone and we are completely vulnerable before Him. No walls or barriers. All bounds are eliminated and its just plain, old, unlovable us. But the wonderful truth is that God loves us that way. He loves us, no matter how unlovable we are.

Father, show me Your strong love.

Birthday Fun

2009-11-10T23:17:00.000-08:00

I love these girls! :) Tonight we went to a birthday party to celebrate our friend's birthday and it was so fun to be able to spend time with them! :) Ash, Me, And Steffy!! :)

SIN

2009-11-09T13:55:00.000-08:00

I hate sin.

"For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high things that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled." 2 Corinthians 10:4-6

Prayer:

2009-11-06T13:34:00.000-08:00

"And the cry of my heart is to bring You praise from the inside out!"

Beyond Words

2009-11-05T23:16:00.000-08:00

My God is.... :) :) :)

:)

2009-11-05T16:15:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Mommy!! :)

I think I'm gonna bake a cake! :)

52

2009-11-02T11:54:00.000-08:00

My mom would be turning 52 this Thursday.

I remember on her 50th birthday how I didn't want to stay home from church and celebrate it with her. I threw a fit at first, but ended up getting over myself and enjoying the time celebrating with my mom. And I'm so glad I did because it was the last birthday I was able to celebrate with her. I'm so thankful that I was able to spend that time with her.

I miss her. I'm sure I've said that a million times since she died, but I can't think of what else to say. I can't say "I wish..." or "If only..." because those things are not true. I can't dwell on what what isn't true. I can only trust the Lord with what is. And what is is that she is gone. I can only say that I miss her and remember the things that I miss about her.

I miss her laugh and smile she gets when she's really happy. I miss her long comforting hugs. I miss the look she would give when was really proud of me and said she loved me. I miss her calling me her Rosebud. I miss her mexican accent. I miss her hands and feet. I miss every wrinkle on her face. I miss her cute little quirks and her love for old things. I miss her smell. I miss her presence. I miss all of her SO much.

How He loves us so

2009-10-30T10:21:00.000-07:00

"I don't have time to maintain these regrets when I think about the way He loves us."

How does He loves us?

"The Lord has appeared of old to me saying: 'Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you." (Jeremiah 31:3)

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)

"But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved.)" (Ephesians 2:4,5)

"But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit." (Titus 3:4-5)

"'Come now, and let us reason together' says the Lord, 'Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool.'" (Isaiah 1:18)

"But now, thus says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob, and He who formed you, O Israel: 'Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine." (Isaiah 43:1)

Oh, how He loves us so!

2009-10-27T13:56:00.001-07:00

Overwhelmed

WHY?! I am so angry...

2009-10-23T15:32:00.001-07:00

I am so angry. I know that anger isn't good, but I can't help but be angry and heart broken over something like this.

On Monday a sweet 7 year old girl named Somer Thompson when missing in Florida when she was walking home from school. They searched all over for her. On Wednesday night, they found the body of a little girl buried in a landfill (A huge pile of garbage). Thursday morning, they identified it as being Somer. I was devastated

On Wednesday night another little girl, 9 years old, named Elizabeth Olten went missing in Missouri when she was walking home from a friend's house. After hearing about Somer Thompson, I was heart broken, so I prayed for this little girl Elizabeth, hoping that she was unharmed and safe. Today, they found her body in a wooded area near her home. She is gone too.

WHY?! Why do people do these things? HOW could someone take a child's life?! I can only imagine how scared these sweet babies were when their murders were taking their lives. I am so burdened for these little girls. The people who did this are sick and disturbed. Who knows what these little ones had to endure once they were taken. I only hope they weren't sexually assaulted by whoever did this. This is horrible... I am devastated...

I don't understand how these people aren't completely consumed with guilt right now. I hope that they are so overwhelmed with guilt. I hope and pray they the Lord would give them a STRONG conviction and that they turn themselves in. These people do not deserve to live among people. They deserve to be completely isolated from all people for the rest of their lives- miserable.

I just do not understand... :(

Remember God

2009-10-23T13:27:00.000-07:00

READ THIS FIRST.

How true is it? How true is it that we sin when we forget God? I have been learning lately what the things that take me away, or make me forget, God are in my life and have been limiting my association with them. (For me it is watching TV, Spending time on Facebook, Reading books that aren't Christian literature.) I have found that when I stop doing whatever it is that takes me away from Him, I think "Oh... God, I forgot You are here..." And when I hear those words it breaks my heart.

Watching TV, going on the Internet, and reading isn't sinning, but it does make me forget my Maker. Of course I want to stay away from sin because it is not in God's will for me, but I don't just want to stop there. I want to live a life that is PLEASING to my King in everything I do. Is it pleasing when I spend more time on the Internet, catching up with all of my friends and hearing all the latest news, than "meditating on the glorious splendor of His majesty"? Is He well pleased when I start obsessing over what is going to happen to so-and-so on this or that show next week? Does it please my God when I ignore Him? The answer to all of these questions is "no".

When we forget God, is when we sin. I can testify that this is truth because, when I do not keep every thought captive and meditate on the Lord, thoughts of temptation come. When I do these activities, they make me forget my King and put me in a position that leads to sin.

My desire is to please God. Not forget Him and shame Him.

"Trust in the LORD, and do good; dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass. He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday." (Psalm 37:3-6)

:D

2009-10-21T13:12:00.000-07:00

Today I painted my nails black for the first time, and I really like how they turned out!!

(I feel like this would be a blog Jillian would post!) :)

Black nails and natural hair!! :)

From Utter Darkness To Marvelous Light!

2009-10-17T10:50:00.000-07:00

Imagine that you're walking in pitch dark. You hear nothing, you see nothing, but you keep walking. With every step you take, you trip and fall, you scrape your knees, and hit your head. As you climb through the darkness, your hands get rough and calloused, and your feet begin to bleed. You have no sense of direction and see nothing but darkness. Utter despair.

Then, turning your head a little to the right, you catch a glimpse of something behind you... light. You stand up and turn towards it. You can SEE every step that is before you being illuminated and the path is straight and certain. "And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying 'This is the way, walk in it.' when you turn to the right or to the left." You are being guided by the Hand of the Almighty One. Complete Peace.

These are the two examples of how someone will choose to live their life. Either in total darkness, or marvelous light. There is no in between. Either you will serve God or the devil. There is no medium. The bible says "Anyone who isn’t with me opposes me, and anyone who isn’t working with me is actually working against me." (Matthew 12:30)

Who are you serving? The king of darkness, whose only goal is to "steal, kill, and destroy" you. Or the King of kings; Lord of Life; Jesus Christ, who loves you and wants the best for you?

Before Jesus, there was no other choice but to walk in darkness. Man was eternally separated from God because God is perfect, holy, and set apart- He can have no sin before Him, and because we are sinful people by nature, we cannot be with God. The wages of sin in death- the penalty for our sin is eternity separated from God in hell. But the bible says "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Rom. 5:8). Jesus lived a perfect life, without any sin (the life we could not live). And was brutally beaten to the point where you couldn't even tell that He was a man, was put on a rough wooden cross, with nails driven through His hands and feet, and died to take all of our sin on Himself. He was laid in a tomb and then, three days later, He rose from the dead and is alive to this very day!! :) God loves you and wants you to serve Him, and not the things of those world.

Jesus said "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and no one comes to the Father, but by me." (John 14:6) "If you confess with your mouth, the Lord Jesus, and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." (Romans 10:9) Praying to God a prayer of repentance and proclaiming Jesus in your heart and with your mouth as Lord of your life, is how to be saved. God is calling you.

The illustration I painted for you at the beginning of this blog is one of repentance. Repentance is this- You're walking one way, but you stop walking that way, turn around, and walk the complete opposite way- stopping the life of sin you're living and determining to live a life following the plans that GOD has for you.

What's your decision- will you continue to walk in darkness, or in His marvelous Light?

Why Do You Let Me Stay here? - She&Him

2009-10-14T16:22:00.000-07:00

LOVE it! <3

She&Him is a great band... love their music... Christmas present idea right here... ;)

God Is Sovereign

2009-10-12T13:12:00.000-07:00

Isn't she just beautiful? :) I find myself wanting to call her a lot lately and it's a bummer to have to realize, again, why I can't. However, I am confident that my Lord has everything planned out for the good because His word promises it. Of course I miss her and wish that things could be different, but I know that God is sovereign and I love that I can put my full weight on Him.

"God is NOT ninety-nine percent sovereign. He is one hundred percent sovereign, or not sovereign at all!"

"My soul waits silently for God alone, for my expectation is from Him." Psalm 62:5

Revelations 22:20- Soon, and Very Soon

2009-10-06T09:59:00.000-07:00

Soon and very soon
My King is coming
Robed in righteousness
And crowned with love
When I see Him I
Shall be made like Him
Soon and very soon

Soon and very soon
I'll be going
To the place He has prepared for me
There my sin erased
My shame forgotten
Soon and very soon

I will be with the One I love
With unveiled face I'll see Him
There my soul will be satisfied
Soon and very soon

Soon and very soon
See the procession
The angels and the elders
'Round the throne
At his feet I lay
My crown's my worship
Soon and very soon

I will be with the One I love
With unveiled face I'll see Him
There my soul will be satisfied
Soon and very soon

Though I have not seen Him
My heart knows Him well
Jesus Christ the Lamb
The Lord of heaven

I will be with One I love
With unveiled face I'll see Him
There my soul will be satisfied
Soon and very soon
Soon and very soon
Soon and very soon

No Wrath. Not Ever.

2009-10-04T12:43:00.000-07:00

“Here’s a gospel truth that is just astounding and meant to comfort your guilty, burdened soul: because Jesus Christ perfectly obeyed every facet of the law in your place and then dies bearing all the guilt and wrath that was rightfully yours, you are no longer obliged to obey the law as a way to avoid his wrath. God has already poured out every drop of his wrath on his Son in your place. You are no longer subject to wrath, because wrath is the result of transgression or sin, and sins can be committed only when there is a law that has been violated. So now, if you’re in Christ, there is no law that you can break that will bring God’s punitive wrath upon you, or, as Paul put it, ‘Where there is no law there is no transgression,’ and hence, so ‘wrath.’ No wrath for you because you’re in Christ, and God has no wrath left for him. No wrath. Not ever.”

- Elyse M. Fitzpatrick

WOW! I am so thankful and encouraged by this!

Morning Rays!

2009-09-25T15:40:00.000-07:00

5:34am. Stepping outside, the cold morning air met my flush face, giving it an awakening hello of brisk Autumn wind! I shut the door behind me, and with darkness still reigning in the sky, I made my way down the driveway, and to the sidewalk. I began walking and speaking with my King! While singing praise to His name, soft pinks and purples began to appear in the morning sky. The Artist had begun His painting! I stopped, amazed, and pondered His works- "When I consider Your heavens, the works of Your fingers, the moon and the starts, which You ordained, what is man that You are mindful of him...?" What glorious things You have made, my King! What beautiful works You have allowed us to see! Moments later, the sky was filled with oranges and blues, and the combination of the colorful light was breath-taking. Rays of majestic light filled both the horizon and my heart! The Artist completed His first wondrous work of the day! I stood amazed at it's beauty and anticipated the glory He would reveal at that evening's sunset!

Your creation, my King, is beautiful!

Discipline

2009-09-20T22:13:00.001-07:00

Annnnnd breathe..... :)

Immovable Me

2009-09-18T11:13:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I wish that I wasn't so easily influenced by things. Not that what influences me is necessarily "bad", because I don't think it is. Its more of changes in opinion on a style of clothes, taste in music and movies, opinions on certain situations, etc. Not a huge deal, but when it changes what makes me ME, it becomes a problem. I don't want to be so easily influenced by other's opinions and styles. I want to be consistent and immovable when it comes to what I think and believe.

It's not all bad, though, because when I am doing something wrong and someone calls me out on it, I am quick to listen and change it. But again, its not so great when I do that in many different situations.

This is a babbling blog. Just stating, that I wish I wasn't so easily influenced. Praying that the Lord would give me consistency in my talk, dress, opinions, and actions and that He would give me discernment and wisdom on when and how to change what I am doing. He is faithful to give wisdom to those who ask it of Him. (James 1:5)

"But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy."
James 3:17

Holy, Pure, and Precious Blood

2009-09-09T12:19:00.000-07:00

I AM forgiven, washed clean, made pure, and precious in the eyes of God because Jesus has washed me with His holy, pure, and precious blood. I am so thankful!

Power, Love, and a Sound Mind

2009-08-23T15:22:00.001-07:00

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

-- 2 Timothy 1:6

This verse is awesome! Story behind my experience with it:

Last night I went to sleep around 8:45, but woke up at 10pm with a spirit of worry and fear. It was almost unbearable. I went online to get my mind off of whatever it was that was consuming my thoughts, but the fear was still there. By 1, I was way tired, so I went to bed. But I just could NOT sleep. I started praying for the Lord to relieve my spirit from this fear and worry, but I was dwelling in the feeling. I knew that it was the enemy attacking, and it just seemed like too much. Then, I heard "For God has not given us a spirit of fear.... but of a sound mind." I thought.. "Wow.. He has given us a spirit of a sound mind!! I don't need to fear or dwell on this because He has given me a spirit of a sound mind." I meditated on that for a moment. But I didn't remember the other things mentioned in the verse.. after repeating it over and over in my mind, I figured out that one of them is "love". He has given us a spirit of love... and I meditated on that. I really wanted to know the entire verse because my relief just didn't feel complete, and after many minutes of trying to figure it out, I turned to my bible and read "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of POWER!" That was it! I no longer need to let this fear and worry have any power or control over me, because the Lord has given me a spirit of POWER- power over this fear and the enemy.

What a wonderful promise our heavenly Father has given us!! :)

"For God has NOT given us a spirit of fear, but if POWER, and of LOVE, and of a SOUND MIND."

Thank You, Jesus!! :)

Kari Anne!

2009-08-21T12:25:00.000-07:00

This is my friend and "sis" Kari! I love her SOOOO much and tomorrow she is leaving to go to college like 90 miles away. :( Now, I know its not forever, but its still for a while. See, she is pretty awesome... we have laughed at random jokes, cried when sad things happened, wrestled each other in the soapy slip in slide at camp, and annoyed each other with silly accents and poking.. I'm definitely going to miss not having that ALL of the time. I'll miss our Cherry on Top trips.. especially ones in BIG vans that smell like dirty. ;) Of course she is going to come back home every once in a while, and I will, Lord-willing, go visit her, but I'll miss seeing her every Sunday at church!! Bottom line, she is leaving and I'm sad, but excited for her cause it's going to be an awesome growing opportunity for her! Kari Anne is Uh-Mazing and she's gonna ROCK in College!!! :)

The End! :)

Being Content

2009-08-20T20:40:00.000-07:00

Today I was thinking "Why can't I have HER family?... Why do I have to live where I do?... Why can't I have anything other than what I've been given?" and the Lord brought to my mind "Be content with such things as you have..." I was trying to find it in my bible and for some reason I couldn't find it. Then I heard "For I will never leave you nor forsake you." and I knew RIGHT away that it was Hebrews 13:5.

I think its funny how people tend to leave out the beginning of Hebrews 13:5 and only say the last part of how the Lord will never leave you nor forsake you. It's a great promise, but their's more to it. The beginning of the verse not only explains the rest of it, but it is also very encouraging and convicting for people, specifically girls, who live in this day and age. So many girls find themselves in the very situation I caught myself in today- coveting what other's have and wanting anything other than what they have been given. Take looks for instance. Girls are constantly comparing their looks to their friends or to other people around them. Even if it isn't intentional, it happens. And not just with body type or hair color, but with clothes, and accessories as well. We tend to not be content with the things we have.

But I guess that goes for all people. We aren't content with our house, our car, our paycheck, our parents, our siblings, our church, our city, our looks, our possessions, our co-workers, our hair supplies, our lack or abundance of food, and the list can go on... Its the truth.

So with that in mind, listen to what the bible has to say about our covetousness and our not being content:
"Let your conduct be WITHOUT covetousness; be CONTENT with such things as you HAVE. For He Himself has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'"
-- Hebrews 13:5

We HAVE the King of Kings with us always. If we learn to make Him our everything, we will be content with such things as we have, even if we have nothing at all. Because as long as we have Jesus, we lack nothing. Therefore, we should be content always, because Jesus will never forsake me and you.

Guilty

2009-08-20T16:33:00.000-07:00

I hate those times when you mess things up and sorry isn't good enough to fix things. Those are the times that leave you feeling guilty with no way out.

Glorious Hope!

2009-08-18T21:11:00.000-07:00

Thought: What would have happened if Christ had never died and became the propitiation for our sins?

Greater thought: What would have happened if Christ did not raise from that death?

These are the thoughts in my mind today. I began to wonder where I would be if I never knew Christ, then I thought of where the world would be if Jesus never came! I was saddened at the thought.

If Christ never came down from His glorious throne in heaven, and lived as a humble servant, never sinning, we would be lost without hope. If He would have never willingly died a brutal death, fit only for a criminal, in our place because of our sin and rebellion against God, we would have no life. If Christ would have not become the sacrifice for our filthy and unforgivable sin, we would be consumed in it until we died.

But, He did. He did come to this earth from on High and He did live a perfect, sinless life, only to be killed on our behalf! We can be forgiven because of His death and God's grace! Our sins are washed away by the blood of Jesus Christ!

"But God demonstrates His own love toward us in that, while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."
--Romans 5:8

And what if He had just died and stayed dead? If that were the case, we would still be dead in our sins. If He would have just died, He would be like every other false prophet who lived for other's, like Buddha, and Muhammad. If He would have just died, we would not have the hope of being alive in Him.

But, He did raise from the dead on that wondrous third day, by the power of the Almighty King of Kings! Oh what hope we have in Christ! He is ALIVE and therefore, we are alive in Him!

"Now if we died in Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies no more. Death no longer has dominion over Him. For the death He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life He lives, He lives to God."
-- Romans 6:8-10

OH WHAT A GLORIOUS HOPE WE HAVE IN CHRIST! :)

Beautiful

2009-08-10T19:41:00.000-07:00

Scarlet

2009-08-06T17:33:00.001-07:00

Beautiful...

Satan's lies, now bowing to the truth!

2009-08-06T13:53:00.000-07:00

I see forgiveness over taking hatred

Pride and prejudice, now giving way to love

I see depression replaced with joy and gladness

And Satan's lies, now bowing to the truth

OH!!!!

Come quickly, Lord Jesus!!! :)

Love is Here- His Name is Jesus

2009-08-03T21:34:00.000-07:00

I'm heart broken for those who don't see how much Jesus loves them, has loved them, and always will love them. So much lately I have been reminded of how lost and broken our world is. Girls are searching for happiness, love, and satisfaction in guys, but their search is in vain. Flirting with, messing around with, and sleeping with guys is not the answer to happiness, love, or satisfaction. I wish that I could sit down with every girl who has placed herself in that position and tell them how very much they are loved; that they are so precious, and a timeless treasure to their Father in heaven; that they deserve so much more than a one night stand and a broken heart. I wish I could express to them the greatest love story of all time, of how Jesus died to set them free of the pain they know so well. I wish I could tell every girl who is looking for love in all the wrong places, that they can call off the search, because love is here and His name is Jesus.

Christ Has Loved Us

2009-07-30T11:13:00.000-07:00

“There is no other solution to the marvellous mysteries of His Incarnation and Sacrificial Death but this: Christ has loved us.

There is not a circumstance of our Lord’s history which is not another form or manifestation of love.

His incarnation is love stooping.
His sympathy is love weeping.
His compassion is love supporting.
His grace is love acting.
His teaching is the voice of love.
His silence is the repose of love.
His patience is the restraint of love.
His obedience is the labor of love.
His suffering is the travail of love.
His cross is the altar of love.
His death is the burnt offering of love.
His resurrection is the triumph of love.
His ascension into heaven is the enthronement of love.
His sitting down at the right hand of God is the intercession of love.

Such is the deep, the vast, the boundless ocean of Christ’s love!”

—Octavius Winslow

Wonderful News!

2009-07-27T11:11:00.000-07:00

I have wonderful news! This morning, I had a long talk with Gracie about all that will be expected of her once we start bonding. She seemed to be following me, until I told her that I go to church multiple times a week. She was a little uneasy about going to church with me so much. She told me "I don't believe in that stuff." So, I felt the need to tell her about Jesus, and after a good, long talk, she made a decision! Gracie accepted Jesus into her parts!!!!!!! :D

And LOOK! She is already reading her bible!!

I think this is going to be a great friendship!! :)

Who Is Like You

2009-07-25T10:57:00.000-07:00

The thought of You is baffling, my mind can’t wrap around You
This human cup cannot contain heaven’s glory flood

Who is like you Lord, who was and is to come
Forever worshipped and adored
We pour our hearts here before Your throne
This is for You alone

The sight of You leaves me speechless
One glimpse and I am undone
This weight of glory stirs my soul
And I fall face down

Who is like You Lord, who was and is to come
Forever worshipped and adored
We pour our hearts here before Your throne
This is for You, You

All I can say is holy
All I can do is fall on my face
And cry holy

Who is like You Lord, who was and is to come
Forever worshipped and adored
We pour our hearts here before Your throne
This is for You alone

The Most Hallowed Spot

2009-07-22T00:25:00.000-07:00

“Persuaded, as we are, that the foot of the cross is the nearest spot to Heaven, that Heaven’s choicest blessings are found only there; that, beneath its warm sunshine the holy fruit of the Spirit ripens, and that under its sacred shade the sweetest repose is found; that, never is the believing soul so near to God, in such intimate fellowship with Christ, more really under the direct teaching of the Holy Spirit, as when there, we would sincerely employ every scriptural argument and put forth every persuasive motive to allure the reader to this hallowed spot, assured that, once he finds himself in believing, loving adoration at the foot of Christ’s cross, he has found himself at the focus of all divine glory, and at the confluence of all spiritual blessing.”

– Octavius Winslow

It Is Well

2009-07-13T08:58:00.000-07:00

My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!

My sin, not in part but the whole,

was nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more!

Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!

PRAISE THE LORD, PRAISE THE LORD, O MY SOUL!!!

You Are My All In All

2009-07-11T08:56:00.000-07:00

You're everything

the Beginning and the End

the First and the Last, You are

the great I AM.

Jesus, Lamb of God,

worthy is Your name.

Jesus, precious Lamb of God,

worthy is Your name!

2009-07-07T14:58:00.001-07:00

I hate death.

Who is occupying the throne today?

2009-07-03T11:12:00.001-07:00

“In our vision of ultimate reality, who is occupying the throne today? Are we authentic New Testament Christians, whose vision is filled with Christ crucified, risen and reigning? Is guilt still reigning, and death? Or is grace reigning, and life?

To be sure, sin and Satan may seem to be reigning still, since many continue to bow down to them. But their reign is an illusion, a bluff. For at the cross they were decisively defeated, dethroned and disarmed.

Now Christ reigns, exalted to the Father’s right hand, with all things under his feet, welcoming the nations, and waiting for his remaining enemies to be made his footstool.”

—John Stott

Savior

2009-07-02T08:37:00.000-07:00

Shepherd, Savior, Pasture Maker,

hold onto my hand,

and You said I AM.

The Day and Way the Addiction Began

2009-06-25T11:25:00.000-07:00

When it comes to memories, most people make it a point to remember things like previous birthday parties, prom nights, wedding days, etc. But for me, its a little different.

As I walked into my kitchen on this, chilled and lovely morning, I reached for the coffee pot and poured out what was left from my dad's morning fix. I proceeded to fill the glass pot with water, walked to the coffee maker, poured it in, and walked out of the room. 6 minutes later, I returned. The aroma of something wonderful was in the air. I pulled out my favorite coffee mug from the drainer and filled it with what is commonly known as, Joe, bean juice, or the Christian's alcohol. ;) I have not gotten to the point where drinking it black is actually appetizing to me, so, like I do every morning, I opened the fridge, pulled out my French Vanilla Coffee Mate creamer, opened the top and began to pour it into my drink. As the creamer hit the coffee's surface a memory rushed to mind, like it does every morning when I get to this point. A fond memory of the day I got addicted to coffee...

It was 5am on a Saturday morning, 2 years ago. There was a scheduled sunrise service for the HS SWAT kids at the church that morning. There were maybe 10 of us there, and of the 10, the ones I remember being there are Me, Kylie Campbell, Daniel Hooper, Tyler Bianco, Christina Craig, and Kendall DeWitt. Many of us were having trouble staying awake, considering the hour of day, so someone came up with the idea to make coffee, which is full of caffeine and would wake us right up. So, Kendall went over to the coffee maker and started the brew. She waited a few minutes and then began pouring out the drinks, and as she did, I made a comment of how tired I was. At that moment, she turned to me and said "You should try some coffee." (In a persuasive sort of way.) I was hesitant. Coffee was never something I thought was disgusting, in fact, I always sort of liked the taste of it. But I had never had it straight from the coffee maker. I walked over to her and she poured me a cup. Then the conversation went something like this:

"You want creamer" said Kendall, in a sort of matter-of-fact way.

"Umm Okay.." April replied.

"Here taste it and tell me if you like it. You may want to put more creamer in." Kendall said.

*April took a sip and sorta cringed at the lack of sweetness*

"More Creamer, please!" April said in an urgent voice.

"Here, this should be good. After a while, you'll be able to tell if you have enough creamer, just by the color of the coffee." Kendall said informatively.

At that moment, April took one sip and the taste, mixed with the glorious smell and jolt of caffeine, gave April a feeling she had never known before- the feeling of being addicted to coffee.

The rest of it is history. That was the day and way that my coffee addiction began, and, every morning as I pour my french vanilla creamer into my cup of Joe, I remember the statement Kendall made "You'll be able to tell if you have enough creamer just by the color of the coffee."

We Stand In It

2009-06-24T23:12:00.000-07:00

“Justified believers enjoy a blessing far greater than a periodic approach to God or an occasional audience with the king. We are privileged to live in the temple and in the palace. Our relationship with God, into which justification has brought us, is not sporadic but continuous, not precarious but secure. We do not fall in and out of grace like courtiers who may find themselves in and out of favour with their sovereign, or politicians with the public. No, we stand in it, for that is the nature of grace. Nothing can separate us from God’s love.”

—John Stott

Sweet, Sweet Sound

2009-06-23T15:30:00.000-07:00

I am an instrument of the living God
My life a melody to His name
More than the songs I sing
Worship is everything
I live to glorify my King

Hear the song of my life
Let it be a sweet, sweet sound
Let it be a sweet, sweet sound
I raise this anthem high
Let it be a sweet, sweet sound
Let it be a sweet, sweet sound

Through all the mire and clay
You're washing me with grace
You carry me, oh Lord, through it all
So I will testify even in the fire
I live to praise my Savior

Hear the song of my life
Let it be a sweet, sweet sound
Let it be a sweet, sweet sound
I raise this anthem high
Let it be a sweet, sweet sound
Let it be a sweet, sweet sound

Let everything that has breath
Praise the Lord, Praise the Lord
And all creation will sing Hallelujah

Hear the song of my life
Let it be a sweet, sweet sound
Let it be a sweet, sweet sound
I raise this anthem high
Let it be a sweet, sweet sound
Let it be a sweet, sweet sound

A sweet, sweet sound
A sweet, sweet sound

Jesus

2009-06-16T22:01:00.000-07:00

Jesus, the most beautiful name that I know.

I am devastated

2009-06-15T19:51:00.000-07:00

I heard devastating news today... I feel so betrayed... I don't even know what to say...

My heart is broken...

I found out today, that the love of my life, that man who delivered news to me so perfectly and was, not only a pleasure to watch, but my soon to be husband.. Anderson Cooper.... is a homosexual...

I AM SO SAD!

I had NO idea! hahaahah Okay.. its sad that he is a homosexual.. but I feel so dumb for not knowing!! hahaah

ANDERSON, NOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

El Shaddai

2009-06-08T14:52:00.001-07:00

I am being reminded that it is completely by the grace of God that I have salvation. It is through His blood that I have been set free. It is by His love that I have stepped out of darkness and into His marvelous light. He alone has done a great work in me. Who is this great God that I have the undeserved privilege of serving? What could He possibly find lovable in such an unlovable person like me? I am nothing, I am lower than dust compared to Him. He is the God of grace and Lord most high! He is sovereign and mighty. My God is God of ALL the earth and when He speaks, mountains crumble!! He is El Shaddai (God Almighty).

A Crazy, Random, Sis Story! :)

2009-06-03T22:26:00.000-07:00

Apparently using Dove shampoo with Finesse conditioner is the hot thing right now... so hot that you can use this combination and 6 hours later, randomly bring it up in a conversation, only to find out that your Sis used the same exact combination that day because she too, was out of her Dove conditioner....

Okay, most of you won't understand why this is so crazy.. but trust me, this is NUTS!

My friend (Sis) Bethany and I were hanging out tonight after church and we were just wrapping up the conversation. But I randomly said something along the lines of "So, today, I used Finesse conditioner and my Dove shampoo because I was out of Dove conditioner... have you ever used Finesse before?" And this is all I got out before she said "Close the door... Are you kidding me?! Finesse conditioner?" It turns out that she was out of her Dove conditioner too and the only thing in her shower, which she had never even seen before, was Finesse conditioner!! We were sitting there like.. amazed that we both happened to be out of our Dove conditioner and the ONLY conditioner we both could find was Finesse.... How much more random, or specific, could you get?!!?? HAHA

THAT IS CRAZY! Sis, I feel like we are living the same life, but in different bodies! hahahaha! :) Oh man... good times, good times. :)

Senior Portraits

2009-06-02T11:18:00.000-07:00

So, I went and took Senior Portraits at the beginning of May and it took me an entire month to decide which ones to get. The photographer took like 70, and I had to pic a couple from that. I picked three... and here they are.. (I don't know for sure that I can have these on my computer.. but I DID buy them.. so I think it's okay... lol)

Pic #1

Pic #2

Pic #3

So here they are... I am glad to have finally ordered them. It was fun. I went to the Botanical Gardens are UCR to take the outside ones and then the photographer's studio for the last one. This lady is an AWESOME photographer! Her name is Christine Racz. Check out her site HERE!

Balboa Beach

2009-05-31T23:39:00.000-07:00

I went to the beach today for the first time in 2 years. LONG over-due. I went with my sister and my nephew. Here are a few pics from it. My nephew is the CUTEST!

He has the MOST beautiful blue eyes. I love Him!!! :)

He calls them "Crack-uhhrs" Lol :)

He was rocking the shades on the car ride over.

My first beach picture of the year! :) (More to come!)

We were sitting and watching the waves and every time a wave would crash my nephew would say "WOOOOW!" He was so amazed. Even little children are amazed at God's creation!

The format of this blog is probably whack, because I did some weird spaces between the pictures, but yea.. sorry. I love the beach. Balboa is my fave. I got to walk down the pier and down the boardwalk. Today was simply lovely. :)

S-I-C-K

2009-05-28T15:47:00.000-07:00

This is me being sick. It started on Tuesday. When I came home from school, I took a nap because I wasn't feeling too great, but when I woke up 2 hours later, I felt even worse! So the rest of the day I felt groggy, but I chose to ignore it. I went to sleep and woke up Wednesday morning and had to rush to get ready for school, went to school, took a test, went to breakfast with my grandma and then went to her house. I felt alright in the morning, but toward the afternoon I felt a little sick, then I went to church and came home. I went to sleep pretty early, so imagine my surprise when I woke up and looked at my clock to see that it was10:30am!!!! I was in shock, for sure! I tried to think of why in the world I slept in so late and then started to notice that my body was not only sore, but weak.. and it hit me... I am SICK!! NOOOO! My voice is a little gone and I have a fever of 99.8. I have been laying on the couch most of the day, which, might I add, is not my idea of having a good day. I want to get up and clean or something, but every time I get up, I have a head rush.. and I get tired... haha So, this is my sick blog.

You're a trooper for reading all of this! haha!

Irresistible Attractions

2009-05-27T00:26:00.000-07:00

“The crucified Christ has irresistible attractions. When He stoops into the utmost suffering and scorn, even the brutal must relent. A living Savior men may love, but a crucified Savior they must love. If they perceive that He loved them and gave Himself for them, their hearts are stolen away. The city of Mansoul is captured before the siege begins, when the Prince Emmanuel uncovers the beauties of His dying love before the eyes of rebellious ones.”

- Charles Spurgeon, The Power of the Cross of Christ

This is the most beautiful description I have ever heard of Jesus Christ's crucifixion.

Rock Of Ages

2009-05-26T22:36:00.000-07:00

"While I draw this fleeting breath,

when mine eyes shall close in death,

when I soar to worlds unknown,

see thee on thy judgment throne,

Rock of Ages, cleft for me,

let me hide myself in thee."

Come Messy

2009-05-23T00:00:00.001-07:00

“Jesus does not say, ‘Come to me, all you who have learned how to concentrate in prayer, whose minds no longer wander, and I will give you rest.’ No, Jesus opens his arms to his needy children and says, ‘Come to me, all who are weary and heaven-laden, and I will give you rest.’

The criteria for coming to Jesus is messiness. Come overwhelmed with life. Come with your wandering mind. Come messy.”

—Paul Miller

In the Garden

2009-05-21T19:31:00.001-07:00

I come to the garden alone,

While the dew is still on the roses,

And the voice I hear, falling on my ear,

The Son of God discloses.

And He walks with me, and He talks with me,

And He tells me I am His own,

And the joy we share as we tarry there,

None other has ever known.

He speaks, and the sound of His voice,

Is so sweet the birds hush their singing,

And the melody that He gave to me,

Within my heart is ringing.

And He walks with me, and He talks with me,

And He tells me I am His own,

And the joy we share as we tarry there,

None other has ever known.

I'd stay in the garden with Him,

Tho' the night around me be falling,

But He bids me go, thro' the voice of woe,

His voice to me is calling.

And He walks with me, and He talks with me,

And He tells me I am His own,

And the joy we share as we tarry there,

None other has ever known.

Even so

2009-05-21T09:31:00.001-07:00

"And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,

The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;

The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,

Even so, it is well with my soul. "

Salvation

2009-05-19T17:14:00.000-07:00

"What else needs to be done? Isn't salvation enough?"

-- Paul Washer

Wow..

Confusion in the midst of chaos

2009-05-18T21:59:00.000-07:00

In the chaos, in confusion, I know You're sovereign still.

Overwhelmed

2009-05-18T18:19:00.000-07:00

"Hear my cry, O God;

Attend to my prayer.

From the end of the earth I will

cry to You;

When my heart is

overwhelmed;

Lead me to the rock that is

higher than I."

-- Psalm 61:1,2

Our Aim

2009-05-17T11:04:00.000-07:00

"To feast on the glory of God in Christ forever is the aim of our being created and redeemed." -- John Piper

Fixing Whats Been Broken

2009-05-16T18:53:00.000-07:00

Sometimes things seem so unfixable. It feels like everything is going wrong and there is no escape, like you'll never be able to fix the things you've broken or changed.

I know that that isn't the truth and that everything is fixable. I know that only Jesus can fix it. Its just a matter of letting Him do it. He CAN do it, but you have to LET Him...

Yea...

2009-05-15T14:30:00.000-07:00

Jesus knows.

Lies, Truth, Restoration

2009-05-13T09:40:00.000-07:00

Jesus is good for making this happen.

I was avoiding it at all costs, but what the Lord wants will always happen. Every attempt I made to avoid submitting to the Lord's will was in vain... His will is what prevailed. His will is what always prevails.

Though for now I am overwhelmed, I know that in the end, everything will be for the absolute best. He knows what is best..

"Let it be to me according to your word.”

-- Luke 1:38

Toes- First Attempt

2009-05-11T22:49:00.000-07:00

Today I went to the store and I saw that they had a pretty good deal on nail polish, so I jumped on the opportunity and bought a bottle of white nail polish and clear. I have decided that I want to try and give myself a pedicure with a french tip (For you guys who have no idea what that is, I will post a picture at the end of this blog.)

Well, I came home and got busy, but I just spend the last 20 minutes attempting to give myself a pedicure. I messed up many times, but finally, it was a success!! :)

Yay for cheap nail polish and free pedicures!! :)

It Is Well With My Soul

2009-05-09T17:53:00.001-07:00

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!

For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:
If Jordan above me shall roll,
No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life
Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.

But, Lord, ’tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait,
The sky, not the grave, is our goal;
Oh, trump of the angel! Oh, voice of the Lord!
Blessed hope, blessed rest of my soul!

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.

TRUTH!

2009-05-07T17:34:00.001-07:00

The word of God is TRUTH!!!! :D

I am SO thankful and so at peace to know that!!!!! :)

There You Are...

2009-05-04T21:46:00.000-07:00

"Wherever you go, there you are."

That saying is so true. You can never escape yourself. You can go to the most beautiful places and do the most outrageous things, but at the end of the day, when everyone has gone home and all of the distractions are gone, you are still you. You can't escape who you are. No amount of fun, or anything, will ever change that. If you are looking to get away from yourself, you're looking in vain. It's not possible, no matter how much you wish it was.

List Of Words

2009-05-04T20:32:00.000-07:00

Remembering.

Thinking.

Regretting.

Wishing.

Wanting.

Waiting.

Wanting.

Wishing.

Regretting.

Thinking.

Remembering.

Phone, Meet Water!

2009-05-04T18:10:00.000-07:00

I dropped my phone in a cup of water today and it is... TOAST! I am getting a new one either tomorrow or Wednesday, but until then, I cannot be reached on my phone. Just thought I'd let you all know! :)

I hope you all are having a blessed day!

Mother's Day

2009-05-04T09:23:00.000-07:00

I am very much over all of this Mother's Day hype. Can it be May 11th already? Thank you!

Face to Face

2009-04-30T10:02:00.000-07:00

I am so amazed by Jesus! What He has shown me in this last week has been remarkable! He answers prayers. When you pray, He hears!!!!!!! :)

I am so thankful for Him. I love Him.

"How beautiful the blood-flow! How merciful the love shown! The King of glory poured out- victorious are we now!"

It's all because of Jesus we're alive! His precious blood was poured out in love. Never has blood-shed been so beautiful! I can't wait to see my Jesus face to face!!

None But Jesus

2009-04-30T09:21:00.000-07:00

None But Jesus-- Hillsong

In the quiet, in the stillness
I know that you are God
In the secret of your presence
I know there I am restored
When you call I won't refuse
Each new day, again I'll choose

There is no one else for me
None but Jesus
Crucified to set me free
Now I live to bring Him praise

In the chaos, in confusion
I know you're sovereign still
In the moment of my weakness
You give me grace to do your will
When you call I won't delay
This my song through all my days

There is no one else for me
None but Jesus
Crucified to set me free
Now I live to bring Him praise

I am yours and you are mine...

All my delight is in you Lord
All of my hope
All of my strength
All my delight is in you Lord
Forevermore

Psalm 46:10

2009-04-29T12:33:00.000-07:00

Still-- Hillsong

Hide me now

Under Your wings

Cover me

Within Your mighty hand

When the oceans rise and thunders roar

I will soar with You above the storm

Father You are King over the flood

I will be still and know You are God

Find rest my soul

In Christ alone

Know His power

In quietness and trust

When the oceans rise and thunders roar

I will soar with You above the storm

Father You are King over the flood

I will be still and know You are God

Birthday, Sick, Faithful

2009-04-28T16:45:00.000-07:00

Today is my daddy's birthday. He is 48! :) My sister took him to Disneyland and I am glad she did because they had a GREAT time! :) I had school this morning, so I didn't go. But the Lord knew. I stayed home and got to clean the house for my dad today. Also, I got really sick. I had been feeling, for the past couple days, that I was going to get sick, and I've been trying to tell myself that I really wasn't getting sick, but today, I couldn't deny the truth. I am exhausted.

God is so faithful. Like SO faithful. He knows EVERYTHING! He knows when something isn't going to work out and He knows how to make it work anyway! He is so good!!

I'm off to clean or do homework or something. Have a good day!! :)

Wonderful Cross

2009-04-28T04:17:00.001-07:00

Oh the wonderful cross! Oh the wonderful cross! Bids me come and die and find that I may truly live. Oh the wonderful cross! Oh the wonderful cross! All who gather here, by grace draw near, and bless Your name!

Colorful!

2009-04-27T18:02:00.000-07:00

This is one of my fave pics of me and my sister. It's great! She is so beautiful! :)

A SERIES OF UNFORTUNATE EVENTS

2009-04-25T16:07:00.000-07:00

(THIS WAS WRITTEN ON AND ABOUT SATURDAY)

Here is my day so far:

This morning, starting at mid-night I was at an over-nighter at the church for the Girls in the HS ministry at church. It was SO FUN! :) We did Karaoke and danced around and played games- a total blast! After all of that, we sat and watched the movie Enchanted and all laughed and awwwed at every cute moment. That ended at about 3 and I made an attempt to get a decent night's sleep, but utterly FAILED! I couldn't get to sleep, for who knows what reason. I laid there for a good hour to an hour and a half trying to sleep. Finally, I dosed off, but was awaken 45 minutes later. There was no reason I woke up, I just did. After wiping my sleepy eyes, I got up and went downstairs to use EL BANO and when I came out I saw that my fried was WIDE awake working on a project, so I decided to join her... well... watch her and talk. lol. So I did that until about 7 when all of the other girls started waking up, and then got dressed and ready for the day. We ate our donuts and I decided to call my dad to pick me up. I said bye to everyone, grabbed my stuff, and left.

Here is where my day took a bad turn and kept going down the wrong road: I got home and planned to take a 20 minute power nap before I spent the rest of the day doing homework, but that 20 minute power nap turned into a 2 hour REAL nap. I woke up in shock and slightly frustrated that now I was behind in my plans. I jumped up and started getting ready to go to CBU to do homework, but when I went looking for my bag from the sleepover to get my hairbrush out, but to my not-so-pleasant surprise, I couldn't find it ANYWHERE! I looked high + low, retraced every step and NOTHING! So I called and txt a few people to find out if they saw it and then I remembered EXACTLY where I left it-- on The couch at the church. GREAT!

Now that I was not only behind schedule, but was distracted by the fact that I left something so valuable somewhere, I needed to make sure I got to CBU on time. So I packed my book bag with my laptop and books and headed to the car. My dad dropped me off and not even 10 seconds after I get out of the car, my book bag BREAKS and my computer, I thought, was done for! There was no way to fix my bag, so I just held it. Thankfully the Lord preserved my computer! But GREAT!

So I walk over to the library and right when I hit the steps it dawned on me, I don't have my folder!! NOT AGAIN! I called my dad and asked him to bring it to me and he said yes. (I left it on the couch at home. What is up with me and leaving things on couches?! HA!) He brought me the folder and I finally made my way to the library to do my homework.

Today has just NOT been my day. I am exhausted and want to sleep, but can't because I have homework... I could have spent this time power-napping, but I felt like writing a blog about how unfortunate my day has been. What's next? A bird poops on me?! hahah ;)

(AFTER ALL OF THE BAD STUFF)

I ended up going to my friend's cottage to do more homework and my day got better. I didn't get much homework done, but did have a pretty good day. We decided to go for a walk because it was SUCH a beautiful day so off we went. Around the theater, around the courtyard, and then inside of the James Building. (It's my favorite building and love walking around in it.) We went all the way over to the Staples room, and then to the Staples room lobby (Or so Liz and I named it) We sat and talked for a brief moment and then we went off to find a secret room! She showed it to me and then my day was perfect. I could die happily after that...

So my day started out HORRIBLY but turned out to be magnificent. God is good! :)

ME AND SARAH ARE BFF!!

2009-04-24T13:19:00.000-07:00

So, I was hanging out with my friend Sarah the other day when she was in her hometown in Alaska and I realized that I didn't have a picture of me and her. So we posed to take a picture, but her being the big politician that she is, saw a fan of hers and waved right when I took the picture... Silly Sarah.. This is how it turned out.

I love this picture of us!!

:)