Beyond The Song

Free To Be Me

2011-01-20T11:16:00.000-08:00

Do you find yourself falling short to the prom queen and cheer leader status, or maybe the straight “A” students or star athletes? Whatever it may be, we have something inside of us that just doesn’t “cut it”.

If you are anything like me, I often wonder how can God use me. How can he use this ordinary girl that wasn’t a straight A or B student and who wasn’t always the coolest kid on the block. How can God use this ordinary girl who seems to mess up all the time? Society today tells us that we must have a certain body, dress a certain way and live like the world does. Not only do we doubt ourselves, but also have all human kind telling us we don’t measure up unless we are the cookie cutter person.

How do we get past the not good enough mind-set and shift to recognizing that God can use us right where we are and AS we are?!

The Old Testament tells of how God worked through a prostitute (yes, you heard me—a prostitute!) named Rahab to both protect the Israelite spies and save her entire family. Look it up sometime…it’s in Joshua 2.

Because she was willing to offer the Israelite spies a safe place to stay and give them protection in her home, the spies were able to give a clear report back to the leaders, which in turn, helped Israel accomplish what they had set out to do with their military might.

God knows the way we think. God knows we would be quick to discount someone like Rahab because of her past and her lifestyle.

So do you know what he does? He goes to some pretty extreme measures to make sure we realize just how creative and powerful He is.

God includes Rahab in the lineage of Jesus Christ. Lineage is huge; the family tree of the Savior of the world.

It’s true. Matthew includes Rahab in his gospel, letting the whole world know that while Rahab may have counted herself out, while every other person may have counted her out because of her shady past…God didn’t count her out. Far from it! God counted her in and used her, her story and her faith to show what he’s capable of.

God’s not attracted to people’s abilities—He’s not even distracted by people’s inabilities.

In fact…

“You are not just God’s workmanship, or His little fix-it-up project. You are God’s poetry. His masterpiece. God’s work of art.”

This is so important to get. Because there are some days when we don’t feel like we are even close to a masterpiece. There are days where we don’t act much like it either. There are some days when we don’t think how God’s work of art should think.

But here’s what YOU need to know…

Regardless of how you feel… Regardless of the mistakes you can sometimes make…you are God’s masterpiece. And knowing that; internalizing that; believing that to be true about your life, regardless of how you feel…means starting to do something about it.

Even though you feel like less than a masterpiece, you are one. And as God’s masterpiece, you were created to do good works. You were created to be used by God! We struggle to believe that we could work alongside God because we don’t think we offer value to this world. But our Creator states that we—His masterpieces—have immense value. You have immense value because the Artist created you.

God is in the business of making masterpieces out of the most broken people—as well as those of us who may not feel as broken, but feel just plain ordinary, purposeless and directionless.

Wherever you find yourself—whether totally messed up in a situation you never wanted to be in or you blend into the crowd with nothing special to offer—you need to hear that God has made you his workmanship, his poetry, his work of art.

Each one of us looks different. We have different lives, different circumstances and different families.

Some of you come from a broken home. You feel insignificant because your family doesn’t notice you. They shuffle you back and forth between two homes and never appear to care.

Some of you have a broken past. You’ve made mistakes or mistakes have been made against you. You feel like there is nothing redeemable about your past or your life. You view your potential and your future through the lens of every mistake you’ve made.

Some of you feel “less than” whenever you walk into a room. Your self-confidence is crushed, nonexistent. You’ve spent your whole life walking with your head down.

The good news is that God looks at you and sees his masterpiece. Even if you have a broken past, broken relationships and broken confidence—God sees beautiful art. I don’t know what it’ll look like for you, but I do know you were created by God to be used. You have everything you need. God fashioned you. He painted a masterpiece in you. He created you. He made you…and God makes beautiful things.

We’ve got to change our mindset. Stop seeing yourself as less than and start seeing yourself as God sees you. Trust the Artist when He tells you how much worth and value you have—and then allow yourself to be available. To be used to accomplish things only He could have dreamed up for you.

God makes beautiful things.

Sometimes I believe that I can do anything
Yet other times I think I've got nothing good to bring
But You look at my heart and You tell me
That I've got all You seek
And it’s easy to believe
Even though…

‘Cause I got a couple dents in my fender
Got a couple rips in my jeans
Try to fit the pieces together
But perfection is my enemy
On my own I'm so clumsy
But on Your shoulders I can see
I'm free to be me

Beyond the song,

Ashley

Link to Free To Be Me lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Beauty Secrets

2010-12-20T20:00:00.000-08:00

The subject of 'Beauty' has been around since the beginning of time. Such quotes as "beauty is in the eye of the beholder", "beauty is only skin deep" and many more are numerous in every society and in every age. We as humans seem to have a desire to define what beauty is or is not.

So how about it... You willing to take a little adventure into discovering what beauty is all about? Let's begin our adventure with Beauty Secret # 1!

Beauty Secret # 1

Beauty Secret # 2

Beauty Secret # 3

Beauty Secret # 4

Blue

2010-11-28T13:57:00.000-08:00

I am a visual person. For me, actually doing something rather than thinking about it or reading it helps me absorb info like a sponge. Some of you can relate. Well, with being a Christ follower things have a tendency to fall into the category of reading the Bible or maybe hours of pondering deep thoughts of Christ and how He applies to our lives. Well, at least that is how some of us were taught. Which are all perfectly wonderful ways to get know God. But there are physical tangible things all around us that allow us to see God in everyday life.

This is my first fall in Boise, Idaho. I have been blown away by the rich, mesmerizing colors of the leaves on the trees. Deep crimson splashed with delicate pinks; delightful hues of orange and green. All of it amazes me. I can't help but be filled with God’s presence while strolling through my neighborhood gazing at all His artwork. These leaves are going through the decaying process. I laugh to myself thinking even in death God is beautiful! I love to look all around me and see Him. Do you think He did all of this for the heck of it, or just because He was bored one day? Or even perhaps, as many scientists throughout the ages may claim, all of this is by pure chance. None of these options even come close to the awe inspiring wonders of this land we live in. The true inspiring part of it all is He did this for us to show us His true love. With love and us in His sights He gracefully painted and detailed this world for us!

I have met and known many people that refuse to set foot in a church. They love God and know of Christ and of His truly selfless sacrifice for us. But that is as far as it goes for them; something has scared them away from the church. It could have been something that happened to them in the past that has soured them to church. Or maybe they have come across church Christians who were leading a double life; high and mighty in the church and loosey goosey in the streets. No matter what the reason is, it’s scared them away from church. Maybe this is you? But the church should not scare you away from your time with God. I have spent my "church" time in the outdoors. I can take a stroll through a wooded area and with the cool breeze in my nostrils and the crackle of a leaf beneath my feet I can really allow God to connect with my soul. I usually have my IPod in my ears with my favorite worship music playing. The quiet time with God is like a serenity walk for me. There have been many times I have taken a walk with a friend and as we walked we would discuss whatever issue may be plaguing us at the time. We would always allow God to lead our conversations; which helped lead us to a place of understanding that He is in control. I can remember one particular walk feeling very stressed about a particular issue I was having at the moment and of what felt like complete despair. Well, no more than the second my tear hit the pavement, a giant yellow and black butterfly gracefully fluttered across my path. I truly felt God’s peace come over me.

There are many ways to find God beyond the church steeples. The search can truly be fun and exciting as well as rewarding. So the challenge for you is grab an mp3, IPod, Walkman/discman or any device that you can play music on. Find some worship music that really speaks to your soul. Here are some possible suggestions if you may be new to Christian music. If you are into modern radio play type of music, I recommend Jeremy Camp's CD “Stay” or “Beyond Measure” - they are great albums. I love to listen to the David Crowder Band, their newest album is a little different than their other albums; but I love every minute of it. The album is called Church Music. If you are looking for a little more rap/hip hop, I would check out anything by Lecrae, Group One Crew and Trip Lee. If you prefer the softer side, there is tons of music to help soothe your soul. Jeremy Riddle has amazing lyrics and soft ballads. If you want to bang your head, there is plenty of rock, even hard rock, out there. Delirious?, Pillar, Flyleaf, Kutless and Mainstay. Here are few that I can't really put in a category but I love them: NeedToBreath, Plumb, Seventh Day Slumber, KJ-52 and Building 429. Those are just a few; but, get out there and listen and feel what’s right for you. Now that we’ve got the music taken care of, it is time to pack a lunch and head out. If you are lucky enough to live near a mountain or an ocean, those I highly recommend. Once you have arrived at your destination, begin your journey. Say a prayer to allow God to walk beside you along your path. Be sure to take in all the beauty around you. Feel the ocean air brush through your hair. Run your fingers across a baby pine tree just beginning its own journey in life. Look for God in all this and feel His presence all around you. Hopefully your journey will allow your time with God to be as mesmerizing as He wants it to be. This is your time with God, do what feels best to you; go where He leads you. It doesn't have to be a beautifully, wondrous scenic adventure, a stroll through a lovely park or by a babbling brook; all carry God’s presence. Here is a scripture I found that I feel supports my thoughts.

Psalm 19: 1-6 The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship, day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make Him known. They speak without a sound or word; their voice is never heard. Yet their message has gone throughout the earth and their words to all the world. God has made a home in the heavens for the sun. It bursts forth like a radiant bridegroom after his wedding. It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run the race. The sun rises at one end of the heavens and follows its course to the other end. Nothing can hide from its heat.

Beyond the song,

Link to Blue lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

I AM

2010-11-07T14:13:00.000-08:00

I'm tired.
Are you tired?
I'm thinking it might be the sun going down early these beautiful Autumn nights.
It might be the hustle and bustle of a busy season soon-to-come, rearing it's head early.
Maybe it's a cold coming on.

Mostly, I know it's change.

I can do a good job pretending change doesn't bother me--but it does.
I'm not as flexible with my life as I should be.
Change is hard.
And being transparent with you, my life has been FULL of change the past few months.

I found myself reflecting on my life a few evenings ago.
I was reminded of all of the times I faced change.
The many times fear has overwhelmed me.

I thought about the many hurts I have faced, and overcome.
I found myself a bit in awe of my journey.

Have you ever just thought about your life?
About the BIG things that have happened?
About the things that have had part in molding who you are today?
Maybe even some of the small things that didn't seem big at the time, but are now.

As I sat reflecting this week.
I was overwhelmed.
I found myself thanking God for being there with me through each situation.
I really realized how much HIS being there -- got me through it all.
Every disappointment, every change, every hurt, every moment-- HE was with me.

I've faced some real doozies in my life.
Dealt with people who've hurt me.
Dealt with loss.
Dealt with ... a lot.
Maybe some things you have, maybe not.

Despite the roller coaster of change life brings, God is one thing that has and will always remain the same.
He's constant.
He's consistent.
He's there.

The Bible says:
Hebrews 13:5b "I will never fail you. I will never abandon you." (NLT)

Joshua 1:9 "Haven't I commanded you? Strength! Courage! Don't be timid; don't get discouraged. God, your God, is with you every step you take."(The Message)

Isaiah 41:10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." (NIV)

Ladies, the more we grow, the bigger the life changes get.
Things shift.
Life happens.
Good and bad events begin to shape our every day.
It's hard.
It's scary.
It's tiring.

Six and a half years ago, I walked down the aisle and said "I do" to my husband, Ryan.
We chose this song to play while we lit the unity candle.
Six and half years ago, I would have NEVER guessed how the words of this song so tenderly speak so much of what is in my heart.
Change has happened.
Change is going to happen.
Life is going to most likely bring you turns that you will never expect.
I can't guarantee you that it will be easy.
I can't promise you that someone else will go through it with you--
but, KNOW that GOD will be right at your side.

As you change, HE will still be there.
As you face changes, HE will see you through them.
When you're tired, HE will give you rest.
When you're lost, HE will guide you.
When you hurt, HE will heal you.
When you're down, HE will pick you up.

Through every significant, and even insignificant moment - -HE will be with you.
He will never leave you.

Creator,
Maker,
Life-sustainer,
Comforter,
Healer,
Redeemer,
Lord and King,
Beginning and the End.

He is.
May you find hope in whatever circumstance you are currently going through, that though the winds of change might shift our lives -- GOD will always be a constant.
Hold tight to HIM.
He knows you, and is there with you, fighting through.
He is your ______________________.

Isaiah 41:13 "For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you."

Living it too-
Beyond the Song,

Link to I AM lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

God Is Enough

2010-10-03T16:09:00.000-07:00

When things are going rough there are many things I do, and probably all of us do, to ease the pain or even dull that pain. Or, maybe we just want to plain forget that pain or issue that has crept up in our lives. I have a few things that I do that I'm not too proud of. I like, well, love to shop. I try to lose myself and hopefully leave my problems at the checkout counter. The aftermath is usually me stressing out that I spent way too much and knowing the looming negative balance sign is bound to show up in my bank account. And, even if it’s not as traumatic as going broke for that month, I do have an empty feeling of “did I really need that” and “wow that outfit really didn't make me feel any better”. So, not only am I broke; but guess what, that nasty little problem I tried to hide behind in the sale rack is still there!

For many years I have always tried to replace things with things. At some points I would get lost watching TV till the wee hours of the night. Just like with shopping I wanted to forget. I could watch a shameless reality show laughing at their problems and pretending mine didn't exist. But, when the final credits would run and I was exhausted, I was still in the same boat and probably worse than when these problems reared their ugly heads in the first place. There are many different things that we all try to use during these struggles. To name a few: eating, hours on the computer, gossiping, anger, partying, sleeping excessively, reading too much (except the Bible), hours upon hours at the gym. Some people have used alcohol, drugs and sex to replace or help forget whatever is burdening them. Do you think that there is a difference between my shopping issues or the other things I listed and someone else’s drinking problems? Or, even something as simple as too much TV and some sleeping around? If you were to ask someone you may not know that question, I promise many would think drinking is defiantly worse. Or, how can you compare sex to sleeping too much? Well it is the same when you choose other things over God and His comforts. But the true question is… What does Christ think? What does the Bible say?

Some of us know pretty well the 10 commandments given to us in Deuteronomy; but one in particular sticks out to me in this situation. Deut 5: 7 "you shall have no other gods but me." To give a little more insight I looked up god (lowercase god) on dictionary.com and here is the definition: one of several deities, presiding over some portion of worldly affairs. Some may think that when the Bible talks about gods it is referring to a religious god, and yes it is, but there is more to it than that. Things of this world that we use for comfort and healing, those things become our gods. We have replaced our Father in Heaven. Now I believe that God has given us this commandment to help prevent us from becoming slaves to this world. I know that God does not want us to be tangled up in bondage, forever struggling to reach His peace He offers us. Jude 1:2 "May mercy, peace, and love fill your lives!" 2 Thessalonians 1:2 "May grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus, the Messiah, be yours!" The Bible tells us to embrace the freedom Christ has given us - Galatians 5:1 "Stand fast therefore in the liberty with which Christ has made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage."

OK, now that we know what the Bible wants us to know, how do we get it? Well, that's my journey I'm in right now. I'm trying desperately to have God be my go to Guy on everything; but, especially for when things get rough. Does that mean I never step foot in a store again? No, not for me. But for some, wiping away our "gods" from our lives is the only sure fire way to release the bondage chains. But for me, just constantly being aware of who or what I am turning to will keep me in line. And, of course, prayer. It’s an oldie but goody. Philippians 4:6 tells us how important prayer is, "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all He has done." Also don't be hard on yourself. If you chose to rid your life of your "gods", you have taken the right steps. God knows that and He is delighted. And, you may stumble in your climb; but He will love you no matter what. Romans 8:37 "In all these things we are triumphantly victorious due to the one who loved us."

On a final note. For me, and probably many of us, I have put these gods in my life because of not trusting the one true God. I lack putting full faith in Him. I worry about what the outcome may be. I need to release these worries and fears and allow for God to be in control of my life. Not myself and not these worthless gods in my life. Psalm 56:3 "When I am afraid, I will trust in you." I think John 14: 27 gives a beautiful picture on how to stay out of fear and worry: "I am leaving you with a gift--peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid."

Beyond the song,

Link to God Is Enough lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Hurricane

2010-09-26T10:37:00.000-07:00

My husband and I just recently relocated from Dallas, TX to Durham, NC. While the transition has been quite smooth and natural, we have noticed a few adjustments, mainly having to do with the weather! First of all, it is HOT and HUMID! And secondly, even though we are about two hours from the beach, there are A LOT of hurricanes that come up the east coast. I have to be honest, since we are located more inland and not in great danger when these hurricanes hit, it’s a bit exciting and gets my adrenaline pumping in hopes to get a hint of severe weather. Now, I do understand that while I’m safe in the comfort of my home, two hours away from the storm, others are frantically trying to box up their windows, run for cover and praying that they will have a recognizable home they can return to.

As most of you know hurricanes are destructive, mighty forces of wind and rain that can demolish homes and towns in a matter of minutes. Some with wind speeds reaching over 190 miles per hour and walls of waves that will take peoples lives. I thought this was an interesting fact, “Every second, a large hurricane releases the energy of 10 atomic bombs.” Powerful is the only way to describe it.

How many of you find it easier to rely on God during the storms and rough patches of life? Maybe some? I know for me personally, that is when I tend to draw nearest to God. When my situation is over my head and all I can do is look up and look to Him for strength and guidance. As strange as it may sound, during the rough times in my life, I’ve felt an overwhelming sense of comfort and peace because I lean into my Heavenly Father who provides that support for me. I depend on him to get me through, and passionately pursue him.

…But what about when life is ok? When all is well? When you have no worries? Where does God fit into that equation?

I am going to be transparent with you gals; I hope that’s ok! When life is PEACHY… I am not so passionate about pursuing God to get me through the routine of my day. I tend to fall into the trap of putting God on the back burner. I tend to fall into the trap of living life for me and depending on myself. Anyone with me? When life is PEACHY…I tend to rely on my answers, rather than searching for the God given answers the Bible provides. I neglect crying out to my God in the good and instead find myself crying out for his peace and strength more often in the bad.

Lately, God has been tugging at my heart about the “passionately needing him when its convenient for me” way of life. Just the other day I was listening to my iPod and a song by Jimmy Needham came on that struck a cord deep within me from the very first line.

I have built a city here
Half with pride and half with fear
Just wanted a safer place to hide
I don’t want to be safe tonight

“I have built a city here”. Absolutely! My own way of life. Comfy. Cozy. Convenient. An “all-for-ME-life”! “Half with pride and half with fear”…pride of thinking I had it all together. “Just wanted a safer place to hide, I don’t want to be safe tonight “ The reality of doing it on my own sinks in, and I don’t want my way of life.

Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m not wishing turmoil, sadness and life’s storms upon my life, but instead inviting God to knock me upside my head and show me that I NEED HIM, good or bad, happy or sad, storm or no storm. Sometimes we need a powerful awakening much like the power of hurricane. Like the lyrics say,

I need You like a hurricane
Thunder crashing, wind and rain
To tear my walls down
I’m only Yours now
I need you like a burning flame
A wild fire untamed
To burn these walls down
I’m only Yours now
I’m only Yours now

God not only wants us to rely on him in the bad times of life, but also when life is going smooth. To find comfort and peace in him at all times, to draw near to him daily, to lean into him always. Not only does God want that for us, but we so desperately NEED him. Even if we think we don’t! We need to tap into his power and grace on a daily basis not just casually, but passionately!

I am Yours and You are mine
You know far better than I
And if destruction’s what I need
Then I’ll receive it Lord from Thee
Yes, I’ll receive it Lord from Thee

Girls, he knows SO much more than both you and I do! Good thing, huh? Why don’t we tune into that more passionately on a day-to-day basis? Like when we aren’t sure if we should date a certain guy, or when you and your best friend are fighting, or when your parents say hurtful things to you, or when school is just too much to handle. Why don’t we turn to him then? Why is it that we passionately pursue him when we’ve reached our very end?

My prayer is that you listen to this song and the words penetrate deep within. I know that I need God like a hurricane, to tear my walls in life down, so that I can be completely his and seek him daily. I pray you desire the same!

Passionately Pursuing HIM...

Beyond the song,

Link to Hurricane lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Mercy

2010-09-18T17:33:00.000-07:00

Having crushes is an inevitable part of life. I have liked my fair share of goobers... and a few nice guys who I’m not embarrassed to say that I liked.

While crushes are normal, it’s important to think about how we handle them because they affect the most secret and personal parts of our hearts and minds. In Proverbs 4:13 the writer tells us that we should “guard our hearts with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.”

Sometimes the person I liked didn’t even know I existed. I would be heartbroken, angry, and feel like I was totally in love with that person all while they went on completely clueless that I was wrapped up emotionally in their life. Other times, I would have a crush on a good friend. I would feel guilty about these crushes thinking that God was disappointed with me for having romantic thoughts and feelings about people. I would try to pray and read my Bible more to make up for the wandering of my heart. I felt like I couldn’t be close to God and have a crush at the same time. The truth is that God can use crushes to help us know what we would and wouldn’t like in a future spouse. Keeping God first and talking to Him about everything - including my crushes - helped me be wise with my actions and be a good friend to guys. Feelings can drive you crazy sometimes, but if God has your heart then you can trust Him and not feel guilty.

God would much rather have our hearts than all our time, energy, and mental focus. He understands that our hearts have a tendency to wander. That’s why He is always drawing us to Himself - as a gentleman. Take a moment to listen closely for God’s drawing - is He asking you to spend some time with Him in prayer as your closest friend and the lover of your soul? Does He want to use certain verses to speak to you about the true thoughts He has towards you? Does He want you to spend some time singing or worshiping from your heart - or maybe just thinking about Him and not using any words?

Whatever it is - take some time to realize how much God loves you no matter where your heart is at. Trust Him that He’ll take care of you and all your emotional needs.

Beyond the song,

Abigail

Link to Mercy lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

My Own Little World

2010-09-10T14:07:00.000-07:00

Today I write at home.
There's something to being home.
I love the comfort of my own bed.
The comfort of my couch.
The sounds of the neighborhood kids across the street playing at the park.
I really am content at home.
It's my world, it's where I am most comfortable.
It's me.

However, I love to go too!
This weekend my family of three went with my parents to San Francisco.
The Bay Area is only an hour and half drive from Sacramento, so we usually end up there once a month.
I LOVE San Francisco.
The world seems big there.
Diverse.
Different.
If you have never been, it is quite the trip.
It's big.
It's beautiful.
It's unique.
I can't explain the wonder of the cement city, but it's a lot of everything -- in a tiny area!

While enjoying the "fashion/shopping" district of San Francisco, known as Union Square, the sun began to go down.
As the sun faded over the high rise buildings, the street remained busy.
Tourists still rushed around, now in coats - looking for dinner.
The headlights of cars and taxi began to light up Market street as we walked enjoying the evening out. Walking as a family.
Full from a great meal.
Blessed with much.

In the evening light, the world suddenly got bigger.
It grew beyond myself and my family
and a voice broke through the hustle asking for food.
"Change? Any Change"
As I looked to my right, an elderly man was sitting on the side of the street with his dog.
The man was very obviously blind, and his dog was well trained to sit and guard him as he begged.

I have to admit that my heart melted!
It normally does when I see people without.
As I stood at the street corner with my family, I was torn.
It was VERY obvious that besides this man asking me for money, he asks everyone for money.
And yes, he was blind, but how did he get to THAT corner.
HE definitely didn't walk.
And while he wasn't overly dressed, and looked without- he was sitting on a nice pillow with every commodity needed to stay warm.
Did he really need my money?
Was I the one person who was going to give?
As I walked away I heard money drop into his cup.
Another passer-by answered his call.

Torn.
We crossed the road to face another man asking for the same.
He was a mess.
Hungry, wanting money.
Not food.
Money.
Honest - I didn't have change.
Even still, torn.
We walked by.
As I did, I wondered, "If I had some change, would I have given it?"

My husband Ryan and I have talked ALOT about this lately.
Outside from our trip to San Francisco, begging is something we see frequently here in Sacramento too. In fact, there is a corner a mile from our house who has "regulars."
Week in and week out, the same man will sit asking for money.
It's so hard to drive by him everyday.
But, it's hard to give too.

Giving.
Sometimes the hardest thing to do.
Reaching beyond your own needs,
beyond your comfort zone,
it can be hard.

Back to our San Francisco trip, we continued walking.
The one beggar turned into twenty.
As we walked, one block after another, each block had at least ten men and women wanting.
Wanting money mostly.
Some beer.
Some food.
Most just wanted money.
Suddenly our happy vacation shifted.
No longer were we just enjoying our evening, we found ourselves having to decipher who was in need versus those who were there just scamming for a buck.

Needing tissues for our son's cold, we walked into Walgreens and purchased two bananas (for his snack) and some Boogie "Wipes."
Leaving the store we were confronted, again.
A man asked my husband for money.
He said he was hungry.
After being confronted so many times, by so many--
I have to admit that my spirit was becoming callused.
Bombarded.

I have no problem giving, in general.
But I was ready to draw the line.
In that moment, when I was ready to walk away my husband grabbed the banana from my son's hand and handed it to the man.
His words were simple, "This is what I have, you may have it."
At first the man refused, but did accept.

What do you have?
In your little world, what can you give to a big world in need?

I open this blog with a common problem.
Something we face daily, people in need.
Frankly, a world in need.
It's easy to get caught up in the routine of life, and forget the world out there is in shambles.
Most of the time we think of helping it ends in offering money, or food.
But today, as I write, I think of the words Ryan said gently to the man....
"This is what I have."

What do you have?
What can you share with other's today?
It doesn't necessarily mean money--or even a banana.
BUT-- what has God given you to share with others today?
Don't get caught up in your perfect little world.

On Sunday night, for our family on vacation the sun went down, and we saw the world in need.
It was raw.
It was needy.
We were bombarded for twenty minutes, non-stop.
Our answer was easy, it was love.
It was tangible.
It was all we had, we woke up out of our comfort zone and gave.
It was a banana.

My experience of people in need in San Francisco is not unordinary.
Just like me, you are faced with people everyday who need.
They need clothes.
Money.
A home.
The world needs us!
The world needs LOVE.

Everyday is a gift.
Everyday we have a gift to give.
Something you alone can give.
Don't get caught up in your day today.
Don't get caught up in your own little world that you forget to be Chirst in the BIG world that NEEDS you!

Just give.
If nothing else, you have love.
Give it!
In a world hurt,
begging,
and in need.
YOU have something to give.
It may not be billions.
It may not be a endless cupboard of food.
It's probably not a mansion with empty rooms to offer those who are homeless.
But you have something.

You have a hope.
A future.
A God who is big enough.
A God who can do much, with your little.
What you have, give.

Be inspired this week-
Read about people who had little and gave what they had....
Luke 9:10-17 - Five loaves and Two Fishes
Matthew 26:6-13 - Alabaster Jar
They reached beyond themselves to make an imprint on the world.
Follow their lead!

In God's hands, our gifts can do much.
Give.
Step out of your own little world, and join in the big one!

Believing in you.
Beyond the Song,

Link to My Own Little World lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Small Enough

2010-09-05T19:43:00.000-07:00

I spent a while in a favorite place tonight: Hastings! For those of you who don't know, Hastings is a pretty sweet little bookstore chain. My favorite thing to do there is to look through the Christian book section. They mark all of the discounted used books with a green sticker, and being the bargain hunter I am, those are the only books I tend to look at. What I noticed tonight disturbed me. There seemed to be a lot of books about "empowerment". And most of those books were for women. Apparently, lots of women need to feel like they have power over their own lives, and these books are telling them the secrets to getting this power. Telling people that they can control their own lives.

I gotta say, that's a pretty big lie.

I've learned the hard way that the only thing I have power over in my life is how I react to what happens. I honestly have very little control over what happens in my life, and have no way of controlling the people at all. Do me a favor, and think about it. I'll bet you that, if you're honest, you will say the same thing:

"I have next to zero control in my life."

You scared yet? I'm not :-) In fact, I'm comforted by the fact that I have no control. I have two reasons for that comfort: 1) it means I don't have to even try to control everything. I've attempted it, keeping every detail of my life in check, and I had a breakdown each time. 2) EVERYTHING is under God's control.

When I try to take control, and I feel like I can do it on my own, that's when "I don't need God." Suddenly, I become all powerful, and He's just a bystander in the bleachers, watching the game action where I'm the star player. There's a line in a song that a friend of mine wrote that is incredibly true. It says that "Your image is made weak for I am strong". Does that mean we can steal God's power in our lives? No, but it does mean that we can trick ourselves into thinking that we know better than Him and can do it on our own.

Ok, now think back. Waaaaaaay back to the beginning of the earth. God spoke, the earth was formed. He said a word, and the oceans were formed. Out of His mouth came the stars. Simply because He said something, solar system after star cluster after galaxy etc. were suddenly put into place and motion. He breathed, and some clay became a living human being. If it weren't for God's little breath, I wouldn't be alive. How on EARTH can I fool myself into thinking that I am big, He is small, and I don't need Him?!?! I hope you're seeing what's wrong with this picture. We as women do not need empowerment to "take control of our lives." In fact, we need to be courageous enough to be vulnerable, admit our smallness, and open our hearts up to God. We need to admit that we need Him more than we could ever know! We need the enormous God of the universe!

There's a funny thing that happens when we pray to Him like that, though. When we open up our innermost selves to Him, suddenly He changes in our eyes. Is He still the big God, surrounded by earthquakes and thunder and blinding light? Is He still the amazing sight that Isaiah and John in the Bible got to see? Oh you had better believe it, sister! But at the same time, He is something else.

He shrinks Himself.

He knows we could never fully "get" Him as His big self. He knows that we could never really get to know Him or have a relationship with Him where we could really trust Him if we can't have at least a teeny tiny understanding of Him. So, in a way, He dumbs the idea of Himself down for us. :-) Now, I know no one likes to hear that something has to be dumbed down, me least of all. I'm a pretty smart person, but in all my learning, I've found that I'll never even come close to understanding 1% of God with my little brain. So, God chooses to make Himself smaller, so I can know Him. He wants me to know Him. He wants you to know Him. Would you ever, in the worst time in your life, turn to a perfect stranger for comfort? How could they possibly understand what is going on in your life? But God changes size in our lives to fit what we need at that time. He shows up in exactly the way we need Him, even if we don't know what that is, He does.

That's why I love this song. The first time I heard it was during a lightning storm in the mountains with the winds howling, thunder crashing, rain pouring down. It was a fantastic display of the big God's power! But I needed Him. I was hurting and I needed to be held. I put the CD into my portable player (yes, this was before I even knew what an ipod was!!!) and it came to this song. I listened to it over and over. My heart had been crying those same words: "are you there?" for days and I didn't know it. I was overcome with this feeling of someone wrapping their arms around me, like a big loving blanket and just holding me. He didn't ask me to tell Him what was wrong, He just wanted to be there and hold me while I cried.

God is big.

We are small.

God can make Himself "Joanna-sized", or "you-sized", so you can know Him. He wants to be there for you. Do yourself a favor, admit your smallness, and open up to the God who wants to be small enough for you tonight.

Beyond the song,

Joanna

Link to Small Enough lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

What Can I Bring

2010-08-15T15:53:00.000-07:00

Let’s admit it, most of the time you and I are too busy thinking about ourselves. Even when we think we’re focused on God – it’s really all about us. During our prayer times we spend way too much time talking about our needs, our wants, our hurts, etc. Me, me, me…it’s all about me! At least that is how you and I act.

If at no other time, at least for the time you spend listening to this song and reading my words, let’s be totally tuned in and focused on your creator and mine – the Lord God Almighty, Savior, Redeemer, Comforter, Friend, Heavenly Father, Healer, King, Holy One…

I have been in the pit of blackness and despair – He rescued me. I have made a mess of my life – He straightened my path. I have been in the deepest grief – He comforted me. Please stop and think right now of just one thing you need to thank Him for. Some of you may be able to immediately think of MANY things to thank Him for – just do it! For those who struggle to think of even one thing to be thankful for – what about the sunshine, spring showers, mountains, oceans – I’m sure you can think of something you really enjoy. Even the smallest thing, if presented to Him with a sincere heart of thankfulness and gratitude, He will find joy in your presentation!

IT IS ALL ABOUT HIM!!!

You and I have nothing we can give Him – except our life lived to please Him, to bring Him honor and exalt (elevate to a place of highest rank) Him above everyone and all things.

Will you join me in having a grateful and thankful attitude for all He has done for us?

If you are someone who doesn’t know if you even believe in God, please take a few minutes to click on the last menu option at the top right of this page titled “Why Am I Here?”. I pray you find a reason to be thankful during your time spent there.

Lord, may our thankful and grateful words and thoughts be a pleasing sound in your ear!

Beyond the song,

Link to What Can I Bring lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Sticks and Stones

2010-08-07T21:01:00.000-07:00

The number of words spoken by the average man daily is about 10,000.

The average woman uses about 25,000 words in a day.

If this statistic is accurate, than what exactly does that say about us females?! …WE ARE TALKERS! We talk about anything and everything, and if we don’t have anything to talk about we make something up. Simple enough. There is always something to chitchat about, always something to be said. Right?

Talking is part of our make-up. We communicate. It is through our words that we form relationships, friendships. Our words become windows to our souls.

The book Captivating by John and Staci Eldredge touches on a woman’s innate desire for relationships.

“The vast desire and capacity a woman has for intimate relationships tells us of God’s vast desire and capacity for intimate relationships. In fact, this may be the most important thing we learn about God – that he yearns for relationship with us.

To be specific, what was “not good” was the fact that the man was ‘alone.’ ‘It is not good for the human to be alone, I shall make him a sustainer beside him.’ How true this is. Whatever else we know about women, we know they are relational creatures to their cores. While little boys are killing one another in mock battles on the playground, little girls are negotiating relationships.”

If we are made in the image of God than it would makes sense that, we too, would yearn for relationships. To know others, and to be known! If communication and talking is the doorway to relationships, naturally, what do we do? ...you got it, we talk! We listen. We invest in our friends, and loved ones. This is a side of God that we, as women, inherited. It’s a wonderful thing that makes us unique. God did not make a mistake when he made us “chatty.”

Just as God created us in his image and made all things perfect, sin made its not-so-grand appearance into the world with the fall of man. Because of sin, the things that God created for good can now be twisted into bad. Sinful. Evil. Those “things” include the things we say. The doorways to our relationships, the windows to our souls…our words. Because we talk SO much, ladies are so much more likely to allow yucky things to come out of our mouths. Yikes!

Some of us ladies may be thinking right now, “I have great friendships, I am good with my parents, and in general, I get a long with most people I come in contact with.” If that’s you, awesome! But, unfortunately sin is a little sneakier than that! Sin with our mouths may not always result in broken relationships (that you know of) but in hurtful words that bruise deep inside, in cussing and in all the mean conversations about others …AKA gossip.

Still don’t think those things REALLY affect you? Still think those sins are harmless? Well, let’s break them down…

First, let’s take a look at what the bible says about our POWERFUL tongue, the muscle that allows us to form words and do what we love most…to talk.

We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. James 3: 3-5

Sticks and stones may break my bones…but words…?

Beyond the song,

Often times out of passion, rage or carelessness we allow words to fly out of our mouths without hesitation, not realizing the effects they may have on someone quite possibily for the rest of their lives. I guarantee that boy on the playground doesn’t remember calling me Mary Poppins…but I do! Silly, I know. And I promise I do not hold any harsh feelings for this boy and it is laughable now, but it was such a simple comment that I remember like it was yesterday. Unfortunately, some of our memories are NOT humorous. What about the poisonous comments? The ones that strike our core. The ones that DO affect us. They hurt. They stick. They don’t go away…ever!

There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. Proverbs 12:18

Now, let’s be honest. If “Mary Poppins” is the worst thing I’ve been called, than we all know, I am PRETTY FORTUNATE to say the least. But let’s be real, Mary Poppins is NOT the worst thing I’ve ever been called, I’ve been called far worse; lets just say Mary Poppins was the safest to share. We’ve all been bruised by words, wounded by words, paralyzed by words. All having lasting affects on us, some as little as Mary Poppins, others as BIG as defining how we think of ourselves. Some hurtful words coming from the cute boy on the playground, others coming from the best friend, the mother who gave birth to you or the father who raised you.

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. Ephesians 4:29

We cannot control what words come out of others mouths, but we can control what comes out of our own. We can control the affects we will have on others, I pray you desire for those affects to be positive. We can look back in our own lives and see that careless words have caused us pain. We can choose to not inflict that same pain on someone else. Stop the cycle. Speak to others the way you would like to be spoken to. And shut your mouth when you cannot.

And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them. Luke 6:31

Although words hurt, which is why we should be very careful with how we use them towards others, they do not define who we are. They generally are not truth! We, you and I, are fearfully and brilliantly made by a creator Father who made us in HIS image, that is truth. Use the gift of being a relational woman as a positive, not a negative. Say uplifting things to people. Encourage. Build people up.

A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. Proverbs 15:1

People may speak from an inner place of being wounded and their own promptings in speech are usually from a painful situation they never dealt with. Anger, hatred and mistrust can spew forth from their lips. God likes to bring these people by our doorstep to help teach us to meditate on our words before they leave us and bring hope to others through our actions. When a person understands why other people erupt out of brokenness, they will have compassion towards that person and not retaliate in anger.

-Besty Cobb Wise

**Those of you ladies who have been wounded deeply by words, or verbally abused on a regular basis, I urge you to seek help. See a counselor, a youth pastor, or a trusted adult. You should not feel alone, and you need to get help.**

Bleep! …cussing

Ok ladies, I do not want to spend much time on this one. It’s yucky, unattractive and all around SILLY! Two things: one, if you are a Christian and you offer praises to God, do not cuss with the same mouth you praise Him with. You have one mouth so you better be praising Him with it!

“Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! Does a spring of water bubble out with both fresh water and bitter water? Does a fig tree produce olives, or a grapevine produce figs? No, and you can’t draw fresh water from a salty spring.” James 3: 9

Two, if you are not a Christian…try coming up with some more “lady-like” and more intelligent things to say? :-) Don’t just fit in with the world. Be different. What do ya think?!

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. Ephesians 4:29

Just like the old Sunday school song, “oh be careful little ears what you hear.” What goes in will come out. If you listen to explicit songs on your iPod those words will get into your head! Easy fix, get the edited version. Guard your ears from foul language as much as possible. If you have a friend who constantly uses cuss words, you might consider spending less time with him/her or encourage him/her to not cuss around you…we are like sponges, we will be influenced, we will soak up the good and the bad! Aim to soak up the good.

Did you hear about so and so?

Lastly, let’s look at gossip. Amongst gals, I THINK, this is one of the MOST justified of our “mouth-offenses”. After all, it doesn’t seem so bad if the story about that person is true. A trap that women fall into so easily, a trap so difficult to get out of…talking about others. We often times think that if we tell our closest friend about that situation it won’t hurt anybody and nobody will find out. While that MIGHT be true, often times it is not. When it isn’t your story to tell or it’s a fact about someone else, generally it entails hurtful or damaging information about an individual that eventually will get back to him or her.

Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing covered. Proverbs 11:13

Let’s say on the rare case that it didn’t get back to that person that you were talking about, what have you gained from talking about them? Nothing was hurt, right? Was what you said about that person uplifting and encouraging? …Probably not! What about your reputation with others? Some might think, “Well, if she is talking about that person, I wouldn’t doubt she’d talk about me that way.” Is that how you would like to be perceived?

Your tongue plots destruction, like a sharp razor, you worker of deceit. Psalm 52:2

What about the girl at school who is always extremely rude to you, is it ok to bad mouth her to your friends at the lunch table? All the mean and hurtful things this person has done to you, talking bad to your friends about it might make you feel better at least for the time being. I can’t argue with that, but it isn’t right and you don’t feel that way for long. Two wrongs don’t make a right. And like all things that aren’t right, it is a trap. A poison. Once you start it’s hard to stop. Like a drug. Satan has a grip on your mouth and uses it for HIS destruction.

“ Fire goes out without wood, and quarrels disappear when gossip stops.” Proverbs 26:20

Our mouths, the gateway to who we are. Our values, dreams, desires, thoughts…our relationships. What God intended for good, for communication to access and build relationships, man has twisted into bad. How are you allowing your mouth to be used? Is it uncontrollable like a ravenous wildfire? The bible says in James 3:6 “And the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting the entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself.” In other words, if you cannot control your tongue, than you do not have control over your life. What are you saying? How are you living your life? Are you a worker of deceit?

With God’s grace and redemptive power, YOU can be changed. Your mouth can be changed! Pray and ask that God forgive you for the things you have said and ask that he gives you strength each day to choose wisely what you say to and about others. Pray that whatever comes out of your mouth is pleasing to God, our creator!

I believe in you ladies. Like God, YOU are the essence of beauty. May our words always reflect that beauty. Speak pretty!

Ashley

Link to Sticks and Stones lyrics

Link to other Spotlight Songs

At The Cross

2010-07-31T21:04:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been feeling pretty battered. I just feel like I'm getting hit on every side. It's like there are these silent voices that put nasty little thoughts in my head: "You're so lazy, that's what makes you a little chubby. That 'little chubby' is why you're single." "If only you were a tidier person, then you'd actually be able to feel good about yourself." "You can't do anything right, you're worthless." "Those people are only nice to you because they feel they have to be, they don't really like you. No one does." "You're so stupid, you just blew it." "That person hates you, and it's all your fault." "You did that same sin, AGAIN?!? You're such a terrible person. You're not really a Christian if you still struggle with that."

I'm being pretty honest here, because those are the exact phrases that run through my head. I know they're not true. I know they're lies. And so I keep reminding myself that they're lies. And reminding... And reminding. I feel like I'm struggling to just survive the day. Or, on a good day, I feel like I'm "making it through."

And I'm so tired of it.

The Bible promises victory, but I really never feel like I participate in a winning fight. At best, I feel like it's a tie and both armies pull back for a fight at another time and place.

It's funny, though... I've only been able to put words to it tonight. I was driving home from a church event, and really felt the need to turn on a cd of mixed worship music. This one always does the trick for me, especially a song that a friend of mine wrote. But tonight, that song was nice, but it didn't help any. I just let the songs change and started feeling really sorry for myself. My magic little song didn't work for me tonight! Then I listened to the chorus of the next song, and one phrase caught my attention: "You have OVERCOME the grave."

I have to admit, I broke down crying as I was driving. I had so much pent up in me. I suddenly knew what my problem is: I can't remember the last time I felt like I overcame something with God. All I feel like I've ever done is to survive, make it through, or just keep trucking. It's not the same thing. To overcome (according to our dear Webster's dictionary!) means:

-to get the better of
-to surmount
-to overwhelm
-to gain superiority over
-to win

I can tell you, by this definition, I've been overcome, even when I thought I won. I always feel like satan gets the better of me, and usually feel like he has the superiority and has overwhelmed me.

I'm done with that. DONE, do you hear me?!? And I hope you are too. Join me, right now: we're done having him get the better of us, done with being overwhelmed, and done with losing to him!

Psalm 60:12 With God we will gain the victory, and HE will trample down our enemies.

That's the key, is that we only gain victory when God tramples our enemies, not us. We can stamp them out all we want, but while we're stamping on them, they will pull the rug out from underneath our feet.

When you face a situation where you feel defeated, pray. Pray that God will allow you to overcome this situation in His strength and power. Here are a few promises from the Bible that you can pray to help you out:

Mark 9:24 "Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me OVERCOME my unbelief!" (for times when you just feel like you can't believe God)

Luke 10:19 "I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to OVERCOME all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you." (Jesus says this to his disciples, and to us!!!)

John 16:33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (when trouble comes)

Romans 12:21 "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." (when people are being bad to you)

1 John 2:13-14 "I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you have OVERCOME the evil one. I write to you, dear children, because you have known the Father. I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God lives in you, and you have OVERCOME the evil one." (Paul says that these people have already overcome, it's possible!!!)

1 John 4:4 "You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." (if the Holy Spirit is in you, nothing is greater than Him in this world!!)

I'm sure some of you have heard the phrase "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent". This was said by Eleanor Roosevelt, the wife of a president of the USA. Allow me to rephrase it a little: no one can defeat you, unless you allow them to by fighting without God. If you have God, He will win, and you will overcome.

It sounds easy, I know, but remember that this just came to me tonight! I'm going through it with you, right now. I'm praying for you, and I know that we'll celebrate in heaven over the battles that God won and gave us the power to overcome in this life!

Be of good courage, my sisters and fellow warrior princesses! Let's overcome together with God!

2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

Beyond the song,

Joanna

Link to At The Cross lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

BEAUTY SECRETS

2010-07-17T14:51:00.000-07:00

I know...I know... This deffintely is NOT a song you would normally hear on this web site! But, it is a great way to introduce something new coming to Beyond The Song. Be on the lookout for it. The "it" being a new button titled BEAUTY SECRETS!!!!

Do you want to know how to be beautiful without spending oodles and oodles of money? You might be surprised! Then keep checking back - BEAUTY SECRETS is coming soon!

In My Arms

2010-07-12T09:22:00.000-07:00

It's my week to share.

To blog.

It's my turn to write on this amazing blog.

I love to write.

I spent this week thinking about what to share.

What to say--- that hasn't already been said.

As I sat and prepared to write... my heart began to wonder.

I wondered what YOU are doing.

Where are YOU at?

What are YOU going through?

I began to think about these questions.

Questions that I don't have an answer to.

I don't know you, I don't know what words you need to hear.

I don't know what words God needs to place on your heart.

But tonight, I know that I personally need to be held.

For some reason tonight, I need a hug.

Tonight, I am going to write a bit for me.

I'm going to peel back my rib cage, and reveal a bit of the lesson my heart is currently trying to process. To really accept.

This song by Plumb is one of my absolute favorites.

It's a song that I can listen to and find so much comfort and peace in.

The lyrics say it all.

They so eloquently express God's heart for us.

The heart of a Father.

A father who wants nothing more than to protect, and love HIS child.

Tonight, my son took a terrible fall.

He is learning to climb.

He climbs on everything.

We JUST moved.

Tonight, my son Eli climbed onto a bar stool and as I reached to pick him up, he fell.

Head first.

I couldn't catch him.

I tried to move fast, but he slipped faster.

Before I knew it he was on the tile floor, looking at me crying.

Immediately I scooped him up as fast as I could.

He cried.

I cried.

I HATE to see my little guy hurt.

His head hurt.

He needed comfort.

He wanted me.

My arms.

I held him as long as he wanted.

I wanted to protect him.

But in the moment, I couldn't.

I can't sheild him from every fall life will bring his way.

BUT ... I can always comfort him.

Be there for him.

Love him.

In my relationship with God, I often think of HIM the same way.

Just like my son with me, I find comfort in God - as my Heavenly Father.

Clouds will rage.

Storms will race in.

But you will be safe.

In MY arms.

SAFE.

I long to feel safe.

It's a feeling of ultimate comfort.

Truthfully ladies,

My heart is on a bit of a journey.

A journey involving trusting God.

Stepping out in faith can be so scary.

It's uncomfortable.

It's uncertain.

It's lonely.

This current life transition has left me fully reliant on God.

By choice yes, but truly by necessity.

I need HIM.

Despite all of the change and uncertainty,

I know HE is here.

HE is near.

Storms are raging.

Things in my life are changing.

Good and bad.

Hard and easy.

Peace comes in HIS arms.

I don't know where this current journey is taking me.

I don't know what journey you are currently on.

While I pray you are in a place of peace and happiness, I know that the storms of life effect us all.

To everything there is a season.

A Time.

And while God never promised us that life would be easy,

He promised he would be with us.

That HE would be there.

We are NEVER alone.

Joshua 1 :9 says --

"This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Isaiah 41:10B (The Message) --

"I've picked you. I haven't dropped you.'
Don't panic. I'm with you.
There's no need to fear for I'm your God.
I'll give you strength. I'll help you.
I'll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you."

Castles they might crumble
dreams may not come true
but you are never all alone
because I will always
always love you

when the
clouds will rage and
storms will race in
but you will be safe
in my arms
rains will pour down
waves will crash around
but you will be safe
in my arms

I don't know where you are this week friend.

You will be safe.

I don't know what you are facing this week friend,

You are strong, HE is with you!

You are not alone.

I pray...no matter what life has brought your way

that you find comfort and peace

In HIS arms.

Believing in you.

Beyond the Song-

Link to In My Arms lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

I'm Not Alright

2010-07-03T06:54:00.000-07:00

“I’m not all right…I’m broken inside”

There was a time when that was how I felt! I was so broken I wanted to die. I didn’t think I could ever be whole again or have peace in my life. Everything seemed black and hopeless. I thought my life was just one big mess and there was no way out for me except to escape through death.

These thoughts, these feelings, started when I was 16 and would plague me until I was 32. Yes, there were times I felt happy during this period but the feeling never lasted. I was too broken inside… I was looking for something or someone to “fix” me, to take away the darkness and despair.

There was Someone who could “fix” me but I didn’t look to Him!

As a teen I looked to friends, boyfriends, activities and love – the ever elusive “love” – to fill the void and to dispel the darkness within. As I got older I looked to my job, my kids and my husband – still searching for the “love” that would take away the pain and brokenness inside. I tried alcohol and drugs to dull that pain and disguise that brokenness.

None of those things or people – no matter how much I loved them or how special they were to me – did the trick.

Can you relate? Have you been there and done that? Or, maybe you haven’t experienced this but you know of someone who has – someone close to you. You are wondering what answer I found.

I did find the answer in a person…the Person of Jesus Christ!

The day was bright with sunshine but in my soul it was a dark and hopeless day. I was at the end of myself… I had tried over and over again to “fix” myself and my circumstances and all I ever did was make things worse. Thoughts of death were my constant companion; but, in this dark and hopeless place I cried out to God.

Until everything I hide behind is gone

And when I’m open wide

With nothing left to cling to

Only you are there to lead me on

This is exactly where I needed to be. I had nothing left to hide behind and my heart was open wide. That day when I cried out to God, He answered the cry of my heart! He replaced the darkness with Light, He gave me true Love, He filled me with Peace and Joy. My life was changed that day!!!

Now, I want to say… I did not have some miraculous and instantaneous delivery from all the pain and hurt of my circumstances. But, I did have an immediate peace within my soul. In the weeks, months and years following that day, my life changed from the inside out. Eventually my circumstances changed as well :-)

From that moment on, I never felt alone. I knew He would always be there with me in each and every circumstance of my life. I have to admit though, the one thing it took me the longest to understand and really accept was this – God loves ME. Me, the individual. ME!

Do you understand this? God loves YOU too!

If you are in that dark place I have talked about, don’t wait until you are in your 30’s (or 40’s, 50’s…) to realize that Jesus is your only hope. Open your heart this very minute! Acknowledge to Him the mess of your life and your need for Him to take over. Admit your need for His healing touch. Accept the love He wants to lavish on you. He does not force Himself on anyone. But, if anyone comes to Him with a sincere desire to know Him and to have Him in charge of their lives, He will do amazing things in their life!!

Are you ready for change????

Loving you…

Beyond the song,

Link to I'm Not Alright lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

I Need You to Love Me

2010-06-26T08:53:00.000-07:00

I hate needing people. Really, I hate needing ANYTHING. My parents raised me to be a very independent person, always teaching me that I could get things for myself if I wanted something. They were trying to teach me self reliance, which can be a good thing...but not always. As I grew up, I learned to rely on myself for pretty much everything. I purchased my first phone plan all by myself, bought my own first car, took care of most of my college stuff, bought most of my own food, always paid my bills...

I learned to live my life needing nothing from anyone, and hating to ask for help from them.

Which can be a good thing...

But not really.

I found out, when I depended on myself for everything, I became pretty prideful and wasn't even able to ask for things that I needed because I wanted everyone to know that I could take care of myself.

I didn't ask for money when I needed it.

I didn't ask for help when I needed it.

I didn't ask for love when I needed it.

Somehow, I really thought that love didn't matter to me. What mattered was the approval that I could get from people and from God. For many years I didn't care about His love. I had never understood it because my parents, like everyone else's, were imperfect people and weren't able to show me unconditional love. Since I felt that love was something that I had to jump through hoops to earn, I didn't want it. And once I figured out that compliments from people made me feel happy, I didn't need love.

How wrong I was.

Without learning about God's love and allowing Him to love me, life, honestly, was pretty crappy. If people weren't complimenting me on something, whether it be new clothes, good grades, great performances, or being "one of the sweetest people they knew", I thought I was a terrible person. If people weren't approving of what I did, I hated myself.

That's when God chose to show me His love. I can't even describe how it felt or even what happened; but I had just finished a morning devotion at a training camp for a mission trip I was about to take, when it just happened. It was like the skies opened and started pouring, and I felt it. I felt God's love. Love with a capital L-O-V-E. This isn't your run of the mill "oh I think I love you so I'll kiss you and tell everyone, then hate you tomorrow" type love. This was a Love that had given everything just for the few minutes that it could shower down on me in the middle of a hay field in Illinois, a love that would wrap itself around me any time I would slow down and allow it... but most of all, a love I NEEDED.

It hurts to admit you're wrong. But sometimes, you have to.

I had to apologize to God. I now knew that I needed His love more than anything.

Once I did that, things started to change. I realized that people's opinions of me don't always matter. What matters is what God thinks. And nothing, absolutely nothing, can change the fact that God loves me. Check out Romans 8:38-39 "And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from his love. Death can't, and life can't. The angels can't, and the demons can't. Our fears for today, our worries about tomorrow, and even the powers of hell can't keep God's love away. Whether we are high above the sky or in the deepest ocean, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord." No matter what anyone may say about you, YOU ARE LOVED.

YOU ARE LOVED BY GOD.

And, I know this for a fact, you need His love just as much as I do. This song has been a favorite of mine since it came out. I still remember hearing the phrase "I need you to love me", and realizing that it's true. I need His love. You need His love. Stop pretending you don't need Him, and let Him love you. I promise, it's something you'll never regret doing.

Love and prayers to you chicks!!!

Beyond the song,

Link to I Need You to Love Me lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Forgiven and Loved

2010-06-18T21:28:00.000-07:00

Is there anything I've done that is so bad that God can't or won't forgive me?

“I have done the unforgivable, God SHOULD not forgive me and I will never live up to the ‘Good Christian standard’. I have done too much bad, sinned too much…I am a lost cause.”

Have you ever felt this way? Thought these thoughts? Believed these lies? If so, then you are not alone!

There was a period in my life where I lived in these thoughts day in and day out. I went to a Christian University, a school full of what seem to be PERFECT people. Spotless people. As you can imagine, feelings of inadequacy, guilt and shame began to creep in to my “less-than-perfect” spirit. Feelings of never being able to measure up, especially, with a past like mine. I can remember telling my sister, “None of these good Godly men would ever want to marry a girl like me. They are too perfect, too good for me.” The ache was deep, not only because felt I didn’t measure up to the “perfect Christians”, but because I felt like God SHOULD reject me too. If I didn’t measure up to these “flawless” people, why would I ever be good enough to deserve grace or forgiveness from God? I had messed up one too many times; I had done the unthinkable…the unlovable…what I thought was the unforgivable sin. Why would God want me? How could He forgive me?

Goodness, I wish I could express to you how much of a struggle this was for me. It was easy for me to pretend everything was ok on the outside, but I knew who I really was, I knew the real me. Dirty. Sinful. Me. Compared to everyone else, I was the worst. It was a lonely place. A place where I felt no one would ever understand the depth of how bad I had been, how sinful I had become. To my understanding, I was a lost cause.

THANKFULLY, “to my understanding” this IS NOT how God operates.

“Where sin increased, grace increased all the more…” (Romans 5:20)

Can I get an AMEN?! In fact, we cannot comprehend what God’s grace is capable of; our brains just cannot fathom it! And thankfully, we cannot fully comprehend the depth of his forgiveness and love. Honestly, I had a pretty small view of God, thinking that he could not love me after what I had done, and that my sins where too much to forgive. THE ultimate purpose for Jesus’ execution was to take on the punishment “for the sin of the world” (John 1:29) I had sinned, and I am a part of “the world”, Jesus died to take the judgment that I deserve. That goes for you too! Jesus died to take the judgment, BIG OR SMALL, which YOU deserve.

The fact of the matter is, we all have sinned. Yep, all of us!

As humans it’s easy for us to compare ourselves to our neighbor, measure ourselves up, and really tear ourselves apart in the meantime. The truth is we are all sinners. Period. AND, there is nothing you can do that is unforgivable to God. Nothing.

“For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.” (James 2:10)

Take for example a couple of “imperfect” bible characters.

Rahab the Prostitute- slept with countless men in Jericho. (Joshua 2)

King David the Adulterer-got a married woman pregnant then sent her husband to the front lines of battle knowing he wouldn’t come back alive. (2 Samuel 11)

Moses the Murderer-killed an Egyptian soldier and buried him in the sand. (Exodus 2)

The Apostle Paul - a former blasphemer and murderer of Christians (Acts 22)

…Fortunately, that’s not the end of their story. God poured out His grace on the choices they had made and forgave. He used them to move mountains.

Rahab the Prostitute- Gave shelter to some of God’s spies, and her and her family was spared when Jericho fell. (Joshua 2)

King David the Adulterer- known as a “man after God’s own heart” and one of the greatest kings in the history of Israel. (Acts 13:22)

Moses the Murderer- Delivered God’s chosen people, the Israelites, out of slavery and led them through the wilderness with God’s direction. Known as one of the greatest and godliest leaders of all time. (Exodus 3:10)

The Apostle Paul- God used to start a great ministry amongst the Gentiles that continues still today. The church that exists today is the legacy of his work. (Jude 3)

The sins that each of these people had committed did not define who they were, and it definitely didn’t stop God from using their lives and their stories to make a huge impact for his kingdom! If they were perfect people, do you think their stories would impact you as much? Would you be able to relate? I’ll be honest, I don’t think I could. God strategically chose an “imperfect” person to show how powerful his grace truly is and how HE can transform sinful people into perfect people. He chose imperfect me, and he chose imperfect YOU to give his gift of grace and forgiveness…accept it… for it is the essence of who God is. There is nothing you could ever do that would make him take that gift back. Live in that truth!

Beyond the song,

Link to Forgiven and Loved lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

What I've Overcome

2010-06-13T14:50:00.000-07:00

Raise your hand if you’ve ever done something you’re ashamed of or regret. Maybe it was a one-time thing. You completely stepped out of character and in that moment caused some serious damage. It might have been damage to someone else or it might have been to yourself. Or maybe the “something” you’re ashamed of is a habit or behavior that displays itself on a regular basis. Now, if you didn’t raise your hand, kudos to you. I’m not sure I believe you, but I guess I’ll have to give you the benefit of the doubt. =) But know this, your time will come.

If you’ve read my bio on this sight you know that my relationship with Christ came later in my life. I asked him into my heart just out of high school but I still didn’t start living FOR Him or pursuing a relationship WITH Him until after I got married. As a result of all the years trying to navigate my way through this world without Him I made mistake after mistake. Sometimes, the same mistake over and over and over again. I have been hurt and I have caused hurt. But that IS NOT who I am! Who I am is a girl who has fought my share of battles and come out on the other side praising God. I am a girl who through the grace of God and the saving power of Jesus Christ is moving beyond the mistakes I’ve made and living a free and abundant life. Because THAT is what Christ came for. Not just to provide us with a ticket out of hell, but to give us something to live for. To give us freedom from the chains of sin and sickness, and give us hope and joy and peace in THIS world . . . NOW!

This song to me is the epitome of hope and healing. I think we so often feel defined by the things we have done. Whether we have done it to ourselves or even allowed someone else to do it for us. We are “chained” to the things we have either done or experienced and are now ashamed of and regret.

This song truly is my lifesong. When I sing or listen to the lyrics I feel like it was written just for me. But it wasn’t. I know, I know, I know that you are faced with decisions and choice’s everyday that are NOT easy. Most, if not all of you have made a choice or done something you really wish you could take back. And guess what sweetheart, it won’t be the last time. Now, if you are trusting and seeking God with all you are, and listening for the Holy Spirits guidance, then I promise you, the right choices will be there waiting. (You’ll notice I didn’t say the “popular” choices or the “easy” choices, but the RIGHT.) God only wants the very best for you and He DOES NOT keep it hidden.

BUT, all that to say, we ALL make mistakes. We all blow it time and again. None of us is perfect. But we serve a God that is, and He’s holding out His hand for you. He’s offering you His grace, forgiveness, and a second chance. So don’t let the mistakes of your past defeat and define you. Grab hold of the healing freedom that Christ is offering you. The abundant life that Christ died to bring you. Because like me, you ARE NOT what you have done! You can overcome any sin and any temptation. But you CANNOT do it alone. Because not only do we have a Savior, we also have an enemy. An enemy that loves to remind us of everything we’ve done wrong. He is the king of lies and he wants nothing more than for you to believe you can’t escape your sins. He wants to keep you chained to them. Why? Because he is petrified of the person that God wants and created you to be. So don’t you ever believe him. You can overcome ANYTHING with God. And THAT is what should define you.

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that you might have life, and have it abundantly.” John 10:10

“If he stumbles he will not fall, because the Lord holds his hand.” Psalm 37:24

Loving you...

Beyond the song,

Link to What I've Overcome lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Butterfly Kisses

2010-06-05T08:15:00.000-07:00

Did you know this is one of the all time favorite songs requested to be played at weddings? You might be wondering why I chose this song… If you haven’t heard it before, you might want to listen to the song first and then finish reading what I have to say :-)

This song is about a father’s love for his daughter. As daughters, we want to know our father loves us. This song speaks to our hearts because we desire the love of our father and it portrays the “perfect” father’s love.

Maybe you have this type of relationship with your dad. You know he loves you. You know he will protect you. You know he will provide for you. You are special to him and you know it. You know he will always be there for you no matter what. You feel cherished - you are his little princess no matter how old you are.

But, maybe, just maybe, you are like me and do not have that kind of father/daughter relationship. Maybe emotional or verbal or physical or sexual abuse (or a combination of all of these) is the essence of the relationship you have with your dad. Maybe you fear and distrust him. Maybe you have never heard the words “I love you” from your dad. Maybe he said the words but how he treats you says something else entirely to you.

Or, maybe you don’t fall into either of the descriptions pictured above but somewhere between these polar opposites.

It took me a long time to realize how much my relationship with my dad affected how I viewed and related to my Heavenly Father. The word “father” to me brought forth feelings of being unloved, neglected, manipulated and of fear and distrust. My head knew God was different but my heart needed to learn I could trust and depend on Him to love and care for me.

How you and I interact with our earthly fathers has an impact on our lives – either for good or for bad. But, even the best of earthly fathers are imperfect. They are, after all, sinners in need of God’s grace and forgiveness. Just like you and I need God’s grace and forgiveness.

There truly is only one perfect father and that is our loving Heavenly Father. Reach out to Him in sincerity and longing. He has already shown you His immense love for you through the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus. That alone should be enough for you and me; but, He is willing to meet you and me where we are at. Give Him all of your hurts and longings and pour your heart out to Him. He already knows, but there is a release from within us when we give our feelings words. Ask Him to show you how much He loves you. Be open to His response! Don’t look for it by expecting Him to give you “things” (although He might). If you keep the “eyes” of your heart open, He will begin to shower His love on you and you will know without a doubt that He loves you as His precious daughter. After all, He created you in your mother’s womb (Psalm 139:13) and He has just been waiting for you to come to Him with your arms wide open!

I vividly remember the day when God’s love for me became truth which permeated my whole being. To know without a doubt in the deepest part of me that God loved ME and that I delighted Him changed my life dramatically! Won’t you give Him a chance to show you too how much He loves you and delights in you?

P. S. Father’s Day is coming up soon. If you have a great father, thank God for him and show him you love and appreciate him. If you don’t have such a great father, think about the one good quality he might have and thank God for that. For me, I thank God for the fact that, despite everything else, my dad took me to church when I was growing up. That is where I learned about the love of God!

Beyond the song,

Link to Butterfly Kisses lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

What Matters Most

2010-05-29T09:39:00.000-07:00

In this song Ayiesha Woods sings about what she does well, singing! Something that God has gifted her with, and in return she honors God with her voice and sharing His goodness with others through her songs. Now lets get one thing straight, I am not a singer or songwriter (I wish I was!); but when I listen to this song God speaks to my heart. He reminds me of the areas in my life where I show Him honor, the areas in which I please Him most. The particular area in my life that comes to mind when I listen to this song is my testimony. Not what most would consider a talent or “gift”, right? At one time I didn’t think so either. Well, God has made it very clear that He doesn’t need me to be a singer, dancer, speaker or teacher. He can take something as simple as my story and use it to glorify Him!

Let me take you back a few years…I went through a time in my life were I hid from my past and the poor decisions I had made. It was easier to pretend it never happened, so I put on the mask of the perfect Christian girl and went on with my life. I had sought out forgiveness and God had truly brought healing and restoration in my heart and life; but little did I know I continued to carry around the guilt and shame and was not completely healed. In my mind, it was better if people didn’t know that part of my life. In my mind, I needed to keep those details hidden. For three years I kept the real me, the real Ashley, from those closest to me and from the world. I kept the story of Gods grace and power from those who needed to hear it, all because I was ashamed and insecure of what others might think of my scars.

My senior year of college I was asked to share my testimony with a group of girls I had known for about four years. I thought to myself, “Oh that’s easy, just give the sugar coated version and all will be ok!” I accepted the opportunity to share. The next seven days of “preparation” consisted of me trying to ignore God’s tugging at my heart and whispering in my ear, “Tell them the REAL story.” Telling these girls everything was not an option. “NO-NO-NO!” The dirt, the scars, the hurts, the hidden…all were to stay hidden. I fought with God over this; it was just too hard to expose my real self to people who had known me as something totally different, “flawless.”

2 Corinthians 12: 8-9 Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weakness, so that the power of Christ can work through me.

I had printed off two sheets of paper, the pretty version of my testimony and the ugly version. Minutes before I was to speak, I was still fighting with God. Somehow I shared the ugly story; God supplied the courage and strength, He took my hand that night and I was completely transparent. Those girls became aware of my dirty laundry…they knew the real me. And for some reason, they were not making faces at me; in fact some were shedding tears alongside me. All this time, as I focused on myself and how others would view me, I forgot that my story had a happy ending. I forgot that my story was not only about me, but the transformation that had taken place. A story of my Lord and Savior. One of LOVE, MERCY, GRACE and POWER. One of HOPE! A story of a God who transformed a past of destruction to a present and a future of BEAUTY.

Psalm 107: 2 Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has redeemed you from your enemies.

That night, minutes after my last word, with tears of shame streaming down my face…God showed me another side of His grace. He showed me how my obedience, even though it wasn’t easy, was needed and that some of my friends were living in the same shame that I was. It wasn’t until I was transparent and vulnerable, that they too felt they could share or start healing from their hurts.

You see, all this time I thought I was healed from my past; I just didn’t want anyone else to know. I was living a life of shame. But what I didn’t realize was that in not sharing about God’s healing in my life, I wasn’t giving him credit, and I wasn’t allowing him to use my story to help others. I wasn’t allowing myself to see the power in which God had transformed my broken heart. A story in which I should have been shouting from the rooftops! I wasn’t giving him the glory. “There's nothing more satisfying than knowing I'm pleasing the one who matters most”

Looking back, I can see the power of Christ working through my broken words to touch hearts in that room. I couldn’t have imagined the healing it brought for others and myself that night, truly a milestone in my walk with Christ. Trusting Him with my heart and trusting others with my heart. Allowing my broken words to be used to the glory of His name and power.

Acts20: 24- But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus- the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God.

I chose this song because the words resonate so deeply in my soul “You ask me where does my joy lie I tell you in all that I do for Christ You want to know how I am fulfilled I tell you in doing my Father's will”. To this day, sharing my story (God’s story through me) brings continual healing not only in my life but in so many others as well. Allowing my flaws to be seen by others and testifying to God’s healing power is one of the most powerful things. Something that was my deepest secret is now something I feel honored to share. “'Cause nothing completes me more than doing what matters most”. This song reminds me of how important my flaws are to God’s work in my life. My testimony. The work that God has done in and through me, is what matters most, not the flawless person I tried to hide behind.

How are you pleasing the ONE who matters most?

Beyond the song,

Link to What Matters Most lyrics

Link to other Spotlight Songs

Fallen

2010-05-20T08:55:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been at that point in life where nothing feels right? Everything is crashing down, your friends are mad at you, you can't do anything right by your parents, your teachers are on your case... and for some reason, you feel like it's your fault. That's what I thought of when I heard this song the first time. I started letting it get to me, and bring me down a little bit. I was thinking to myself "wow, dear friend of mine who put this song on my computer, thanks for giving me some depressing music!!!" This song just stuck with me after that, and I kept mulling it over. I started getting even a little more depressed (which, if you know me, I'm actually a generally pretty chipper person!). I found myself sitting in front of my computer, looking at the lyrics and watching her video of this song on youtube. At that point, I realized the reason for my dark cloud: my heart was breaking. I remembered the times when I've felt like that, when my friends have felt like that, and was just in disbelief that this state of mind was being glorified in song!

So, you may be wondering why I chose this song in the first place, since it's so dang depressing, right? Well, have no fear, this blog has a happy ending! This song accomplishes very little else but to build us a hopeless feeling inside and confirm it as a right thing. And, you know, the Bible talks about times when the hope in life disappears:

Job 8:13 Such is the destiny of all who forget God; so perishes the hope of the godless.

But take a look... it says that our hope disappears when we forget God. Seriously, it's true! Think about it: when do you lose sight of God?

Well, when did Peter lose sight of God? If you have a Bible, look up the Book of Matthew chapter 14 or Book of Mark chapter 6 (if you don't have a Bible, there are some pretty awesome online Bible websites, I like blueletterbible.org!). Both chapters have the same story of when Jesus is walking on stormy waters, heading towards his disciples. All of them are scared of the storm already, then add to that someone is WALKING ON THE WATER, with HUGE waves all around this person, heading straight for the little boat they're on. Can you imagine just how freaked out these guys are? But Peter somehow just knows it's Jesus. When asked, he gets out of the boat and starts walking on the water towards Jesus! Things are just peachy, until Peter "comes to His senses" and starts looking around. The minute his eyes left Jesus, he started to sink.

Now, take this to your life. I'm pretty sure that, if I ever came to your house, you wouldn't be out there in your back yard trying to walk across your pool. :-) Let's make this a little less literal... Everything is crashing down, your friends are mad at you, you can't do anything right by your parents, your teachers are on your case... and for some reason, you feel like it's your fault. That's a storm if ever there was one, right? Now, my question is: do you have hope in all of this? Or, are you like poor Sarah McLachlan, running away from it because you messed up too badly? Have you tried so hard to walk through this storm on your own, only to have it blow up in your face?

Let me tell you something, little sis. This is something that's taken me a long time to learn, so I hope, hope, HOPE you can get it now, cause it makes it like waaaaaay easier down the road! Sometimes there are storms you cause for yourself: you don't do your homework, you fight with your parents about chores, you accidentally spread a rumor about your friend. But, sometimes, there are storms that are simply beyond your control, and you just happen to have gotten mixed up in them by accident. Not all of the hard things in your life are caused by something "bad" you did, sometimes these things just come your way. I can also tell you that you'll never make it through unless your eyes are glued to Jesus. Without Him, and having your hope come from Him, you will sink into the whirlpool that is made up of the storms of life. He is the only one who can carry you through life, you really have no power to make it through on your own.

Jesus is coming to you, asking you to do what you think may be impossible, which is to step out in the middle of your storm and put your trust completely into Him. We all know we'll sink without Him.

Happy ending to the story, when Peter did take his eyes off Jesus, Jesus was there to pull Peter out of the waves, take him back to the boat, then stop the storm. :-)

He will be there to hold your trust in Him, even if you don't hold up your end. He will never let you go. He'll never say "I told you so".

Where's your hope?

Psalm 33:20 "We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield."

Psalm 42:5 "Why am I discouraged? Why so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again-- my Savior and King." (btw, this is said three times in this chapter the exact same way, think David was saying something to himself and all of us???)

Psalm 78:7 "So each generation can set its hope anew on God, remembering his glorious miracles and obeying his commands."

Psalm 94:19 "When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer."

Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you," says the LORD. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."

Hebrews 10:23 "Without wavering, let us hold tightly to the hope we say we have, for God can be trusted to keep his promise."

Beyond the song,

Link to Fallen lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Awaken

2010-05-03T13:09:00.000-07:00

Confession: I watch American Idol.
I will admit that this season has not been my favorite, but I am still watching.
I am inspired by the drive of the contestants to pursue their passion in singing. Despite the criticism and harsh comments they receive from the judges, the contestants sing their hearts out (good or bad) week after week. No matter what happens each week someone gets voted off and the remaining contestants continue to push forward, fighting for their dream—to become a professional music artist with a song on the radio.

Confession 2: I’m not musical. Don’t get me wrong-- I love music, and love to THINK that I have a voice in me. I even love to sing, but I’m not one you will ever see on the American Idol stage. Music isn’t my gift, and it’s not really my passion.

So what am I passionate about? A lot of things. I’m passionate about my family. My students. I’m passionate about my friends lives. But, mainly in the depths of my heart I’m passionate about life change. I am passionate about people finding their “sweet spot.” About people finding the confidence to be world changers, to do that one thing it is that they LOVE to do. I want to equip, and build people up to do exactly what it is God created their heart to beat for.

Going back to American Idol, last week I was watching the infamous “Idol Gives Back” episode. It is a two hour TV slot dedicated to raising money for various non-profit organizations that offer hope to people in need. While I was watching, God reminded me of my “sweet spot,” a passion I currently hold. Yes, while watching American Idol…. I was “re”awakened.

For years now I have had this interest to travel to a third world country and teach. To be able to touch lives of people on the other side of the world, truly makes my heart beat with anticipation. Someday, I pray, I will have the opportunity follow that passion. Until then, I pray that God continues to awaken me to those things ONLY HE has placed so delicately on my heart. This, being one of them. These deep-rooted dreams of my heart are the things only HE and I know, unless I share them. Honestly, they are the things that scare me… and excite me at the same time. And truthfully, they could be the reason I was put on this earth for such a time as this. They are the driving factors of the difference I will be able to make…..but that’s ONLY IF I pursue them. I can't let my time here on earth slip away. I can't let myself get so caught up in the day-to-day demand, that I forget to reach for my dreams -- The dreams God set aside for ME.

What are your passions personal, and God placed?
What does your really heart beat for?
What excites you and scares you at the same time?
What are the dreams you have that only YOU and God know about?

Wake Up!
Recognize them.
And if you’ve known them for a long time, start pursuing them with passion.

God has placed special dreams and purposes on each one of our hearts.
It’s up to us what we will pursue in life.
If we will turn those GOD-GIVEN dreams into reality.
….Or if we will suppress them and ignore that they are there.

Usually, they won’t offer fifteen minutes of fame.
And yes, most likely they will challenge you to rely on God.
But I guarantee you that when you follow that dream -that passion, you will find more fulfillment than any actor, singer, or American Idol will ever have.

Personal dreams are one thing.
A life purpose is another.

Be awakened.
May you live out your hearts deep-rooted dreams and pursue the life He has ordained for you.
Live for HIM.

Believing in you.

Beyond the song,

Link to Awaken lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Replace Me

2010-04-24T13:02:00.000-07:00

Crush me, tear me, break me, mold me

That does not sound like fun to me! How about you?

But that is just how desperate you and I should be when it comes to wanting a changed life. A life that reflects who we belong to – JESUS!

Shatter me into a million pieces...Make me new

You and I need to have our life broken into a million pieces so we can’t put ourselves back together. God will make us new at this point. New desires for living a life that pleases Him will replace the old way of doing things, saying things, thinking things that lead us down the path away from God.

You can’t just “play” at being a Christian. Jesus said you had to be willing to give up everything to follow Him – friends, activities, thoughts, words, possessions – anything that will prevent you from being all He wants you to be.

You think you can be a Christian but still hang around with friends who swear, cheat and gossip. You think it’s okay you hang with those who do drugs or alcohol or both as long as you don’t do those same things. Don’t you know you are known by the company you keep?

The Bible tells us that Jesus is the Light of the world. It also tells us that when we believe in Him we are filled with His light. It goes on to say those who don’t believe live in darkness and that those who live in the Light have nothing in common with those who live in darkness. (John 8:12; John 12:46; 2 Corinthians 6:14-16)

It is so easy to get caught up with the crowd. You want to blend in. Yeah, maybe you express your individuality but always within the parameters of what is acceptable to the group you identify with. This is what we call “self” or the “sinful nature” or the “flesh”.

This is where the desperation comes in. You and I are caught in the chains of bondage to our sinful nature. As a Christian, we know we should live differently but we seem to not be able to do those things we know we should do and we continue doing those things we know we shouldn’t do. How do we escape from this bondage?

Through the power of the Holy Spirit! If you have asked Jesus to be your Savior, then you have the Holy Spirit living within you. But, you not only need Jesus to be your Savior, you need Him to be Lord of your life. You have to give Him your life and all that entails – thoughts, actions, speech! You need to give Him your life (sinful nature, self, flesh) and have it replaced with His!

That is what this song is about. Getting to the point of desperation where you are willing to let Him take over and live through you. The chains can be broken… You are the only thing standing in your way to a new life.

Are you ready to say “replace me”?

Beyond the song,
,

Link to Replace Me lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Alive

2010-04-14T16:02:00.000-07:00

Do robots dream of electric sheep? WHAT!!?? Heck if I know! I’m not really friends with any robots. Well I have to confess that there are a few lyrics in this song that have me shaking my head, laughing and wondering, “What on earth are they talking about!!??” BUT, it’s a fun song and I love it. So I’m gonna attempt to pull the spititual truth out of those lyrics for ya. = )

Do you ever feel like you are just going through the motions of life? Going with the flow, not wanting to rock the “politically correct” boat? Just trying to fit in with the world around you?

Well, if you answered “yes” to any of that then maybe it’s time for you to “make your move.” Now, let me pause hear and clarify that I am in no way suggesting that you go crazy and start acting out in a negative way or causing trouble. And that’s not what this song is saying either. Now that I’ve clarified that . . . moving on.

Maybe you answered “no” to all the above questions. Well lets give these a try: Are you clinging to your sinful nature because you think it’s more fun or satisfying? Are you living just to please yourself, no matter what the cost or compromise? Or, are you living to please the people around you, because you think it will help you climb that popular social ladder?

Well, if you answered “yes” to any of those questions then it’s time for you to “make your move” too.

John 10:10 says, “A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I (Jesus) came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of!” (The Message)

Romans 5:18 says, “One man's sin brought guilt to all people. So also one right act made all people right with God. And all who are right with God will live.” (NIRV)

Because of Adam’s sin we were all destined to a life of sin and death apart from God. But Christ has made you alive!! He came to give you a bigger and better life than you could ever imagine! So WHY would you choose (and yes, it IS a choice) to remain in the flow of this world, doing and being what IT says you should when there is something SO much better at your fingertips? Why are you letting the things of this world steal and destroy all that God has for you? You are responsible for how you choose to live. God is the author of your life. And He has written you an incredible story. But YOU have to be the one to open the book. You have to turn your back on things of this world, leave behind your sinful nature, and let God’s story take you where it wants to go. And I promise you, just as God does, that it is SO worth it! That is a life worth living.

I want to leave you with this final thought and my favorite lines from the song. Have you ever flown in your dreams? This song says, “I need to live my dreams, not just in my sleep.” Then a few lines after that it says, “We were born with wings, we were made to fly, we were MEANT to live while we’re still alive.” I love that picture!! Probably because I do fly in some of my dreams and it is an incredible feeling. It makes me feel . . . ALIVE! Now obviously you’re not gonna wake up one morning with literal wings and take flight. But you can wake up, grab ahold of Jesus and soar! Claim the life that God has for you and live!!

Loving You...

Beyond the song,

Link to Alive lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

In the Words (of Satan)

2010-04-05T07:55:00.000-07:00

"Don't lie to each other. You've gotten rid of the person you used to be and the life you used to live, " Colossians 3:9

"Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips, and from a deceitful tongue," Psalm 120:2

"The man of sin will come with the power of Satan. He will use every kind of power, including miraculous and wonderful signs. But they will be lies." 2 Thessalonians 2:9

The puppet master of lies. We are all wrapped up in his earthly sized web of lies. He is ready to destroy us and rip us away from our Christ driven life. Did you ever have someone in school who spread rumors about people. Perhaps you were even victimized by this person’s rampage of lies. What usually ends up happening in these moments? People actually start to believe these lies about you or whomever the rumors are about. It can be so frustrating. And it feels so damaging to our spirit. It's crazy how lies can cause us so much pain. But that is all part of Satan's secret formula, his recipe for disaster. Here is something even crazier. Satan is so good at lying that he can cause us to believe everything that is negative about ourselves.

He wants our focus off God. Truth comes from God. God wants us to know the truth about our inner beauty and the love He has for us. "Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with us in truth and love," 2 John 1:3 .

Please don't be played by the great deceiver. Don't let him win. Don't allow negative rumors to be spread about you through Satan, right to your face. God created you in such awesome detail to speak negative of His creation seems wrong and hurtful towards God. It would be like calling a gorgeous waterfall ugly. It just doesn't make sense.

So my best advice to combat the wicked liar, Satan, would be to arm yourself with the word of God. "Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil," Ephesians 6:11.

Learn about how He feels about you. "and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who loves us and released us from our sins by His blood," Revelation 1:5. "Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal comfort and a wonderful hope," 2 Thessalonians 2:16 . God knows us and every hairy detail of our life. "And the very hairs on your head are all numbered," Matthew 10:30.

Don't let Satan put a wedge between you and God. Stand firm in God’s love. This love will destroy any lie Satan wants to attempt to spread. Pray for this strength. God will provide you with the armor.

Beyond the song,

Link to In the Words (of Satan) lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Beautiful Jesus

2010-03-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

Spring.

Welcome newness.

Welcome life.

I have a great appreciation for all of the seasons.

Each season truly plays a vital role in making the world the masterpiece God created it to be.

Nature has a remarkable way of paralleling to our lives.

To everything there is a season. Each one brings it's own change.

While some might mark the end, they always also bring the hope of an eventual start of something new.

In Fall, with every leaf that slowly falls to the ground, we know that one will replace it in Spring. So many see Fall as a sad time of the year, when things begin to slow down and fade away. But the truth is, Fall brings promise. Promise of change. Promise of new beginning. Promise that in it's warm colors, everything has it's time. Soon the stillness will come, and new life will eventually blossom. Change is in air.

Welcome Spring.

Spring is the promise of life fulfilled.

The dead of winter and fall wiped clean.

Life renewed.

In Luke 23 we read the story of the crucifixion.

The pain, the agony, and the ultimate sacrifice made on our behalf.

Christ's Death.

Darkness.

The ultimate gift given.

God's only Son, hanging on the cross.

A grim and undeserving end.

Jesus Christ, dying for us.... to fulfill a promise.

A promise of new relationship.

A new life.

A new hope.

Life forever with God.

Life everlasting.

Death transforming the world and resulting in new life.

Luke 24 says : "On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. ²They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, ³but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. ⁴While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. ⁵In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead? ⁶He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ⁷'The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.' " ⁸Then they remembered his words. "

Easter.

Life.

He's Alive.

Despite His death, Jesus overcame.

He conquered the grave.

The greatest promise ever fulfilled.

The beauty of an end, and the promise of the new.

Christ's death on the cross, His rising in three days...

was for YOU.

His death, the ultimate end...

allows for YOU to have a new life.

A life renewed with God.

Life Everlasting.

2 Corinthians 5:17 says: "¹⁷Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!"

A new creation.

A relationship with Him.

I am made new because of HIM.

You are made new- a new creation because of HIS sacrifice for you.

His death and resurrection, offers you the gift of life forever in Heaven with God our Father.

^{John 3:16-18 (The Message) says: 16-18}"This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn't go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person's failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him."

He is our Savior.

Saving us from death, through His own death.

Dying for us and living for us, so that we too can choose to live.

Beautiful.

Faithful.

Loving.

- Your love, oh God
Displayed for us
As crimson covered
Over sinless hands
Your majesty
For all to see
In raging storms and quiet cloudless days

Beautiful Jesus
Beautiful Savior
Nothing is greater, briliant Creator

Friend of mine -

Creator. Savior. Friend.

Welcome Spring.

Welcome promises fulfilled.

Welcome new life.

He is risen.

He is risen indeed, friends.

With Love Beyond the Song-

Link to Beautiful Jesus lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Gotta Grow

2010-03-21T12:04:00.000-07:00

Recently I saw a documentary on a unique young woman who just turned 16 in January. What makes her so unique? She has not aged since she was a baby! If you were to see her in person or pictures of her, you would think she was about seven months old. She doesn’t walk or talk… She still needs to wear diapers… She still sits in a car seat, uses a stroller and sleeps in a crib. Definitely not your typical teenager!

It isn’t normal to stay a baby. Each of us grows through our toddler years and into our childhood, teenage and adult years. Our spiritual life should reflect this same progression. But, how many of us stay spiritual babies?

What about you? Would you describe yourself spiritually as a mature adult or a baby? Or somewhere in between?

Did you know that even though you are a teenager in the physical realm, you can be mature in the spiritual realm?

That is what this song is talking about. You need to grow! Giving your life to Jesus, making Him your Savior means your sins have been forgiven and you have been saved; but, you are not done. Your new life has just begun.

Just as you see changes in babies as they grow, you should see changes in yourself spiritually too. The choices you make on a daily basis should reflect this growth.

Trip Lee talks about how at first he didn’t grow. Catch these lyrics…

“But after that, I was just ya average Sunday Christian
Up in church wit my bible, back Monday sinning
Up in the school yard trying hard to blend in”

In verse 2 he says no one would be able to tell him apart from non-believers – that’s how well he blended in! Take a look at your life, your choices… Would someone who didn’t know you are a Christian be able to tell that you are by your words and actions?

Check out verse 3 where he talks about being young is not a reason to stay a spiritual baby…

“But even if you young just getting saved is not enough
We gotta talk to Him, read who the Lord in the skies is
The reason we breathe is to enjoy and glorify Him”

Trip found out that living for himself and what he thought was best for him was actually wasting his life. He was a Christian but he hadn’t accepted the gift of a changed life. He gives God the credit for showing him this truth and for his growth in spiritual maturity!

“By His grace I'm growing and have matured from a baby
I'm so grateful that I've been torn from sin
And day by day He's makin me more like Him”

So, are you growing? Really think about this as you reflect on the way you live your life on a day to day basis. Do you see signs of growth? Make the chorus to this song your daily prayer and make it personal by substituting the “we” with an “I”…

“I gotta grow, I can't stay in the same place
I gotta grow, I gotta be seeking His face
I gotta grow, so if I’m saved and I've been pardoned
I gotta grow, I ain't done I just getting started”

Beyond the song,

Link to Gotta Grow lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Joyful Noise

2010-03-02T13:45:00.000-08:00

Forgiveness. To forgive or not to forgive. I know we all have had hurtful things that have happened to us. A lot of them seem to be from our younger years. We just can't seem to let go of these defining and sometimes crushing moments. And as we get older the scars and pain are still there. We carry these burdens with us like an ugly old purse that is so ugly, worn and torn but we just can't seem to get rid of it. Either because we just can't let go of it or we figure we can't afford anything better. We fill this "old purse" with every painful rip and tear of our spirit. But our faithful relationship with Jesus allows us to throw away that "old purse" and we get a brand new purse filled with Jesus’ love and freedom. And Jesus paid the price so there is no cost to us. He feels we DO deserve better!

Let me tell you about my ugly "old purse." Although it was filled with a lot of hurts, pains and disappointments. I will share a particularly damaging moment with you. Then I want to share the forgiveness I must give to truly be free and be rid of that "old purse". My mom and I have a had an up and down relationship. I have always loved her but I have to admit I haven't always liked her. From a young age I always felt ignored by her; which of course led to crazy stunts to gain attention. I once tried to break my own arm so that my mom would take care of me and pay attention to me. I even brought that into my marriage. Constantly trying to pick fights with my husband just to get attention, even if it was damaging to our relationship . Because of that pain and ignorance I felt from my mom, that became my identity. "The girl that no one sees," is what I told myself. That was who I thought I was. So, because I never forgave my mom, I held on to that pain; therefore affecting my behavior. As I got older, I would constantly talk about all that my mom did to me. Maybe to put it out there and to justify my actions and maybe to watch the person whom I'm telling the story to feel sorry for me and of course...pay attention to me! Now just writing it helps me realize that it was a lot of work just for my relentless quest for attention.

Recently my husband and I have been listening to sermons and talking to friends about the freedom Jesus gives us. And one of those tools to gain full freedom is forgiveness. I needed to forgive my mom. I needed to stop talking about all those painful moments and forgive her. Every time I talked about it and complained about it was just reliving it over and over again; which made it hard to heal my broken heart. I needed to put it in my "old purse" and hand it over to God and be rid of it. I get to trade it in for this perfectly new purse filled with God’s love, forgiveness and freedom.

I understand that when upsetting things have taken place in your life you need to talk about it, you need to find friends who you share the same Godly desires with and share your hurts with them. Seek their advice or even just have them listen to get stuff off your chest. Some things may be so horrific like a rape or a death that you need to seek professional help. That is OK; but, after that has run its course you need get rid of it. Time for your new purse.

I find it awesome to think about God’s forgiveness towards us. Wow, we have all done some messed up stuff but God forgives us. So, maybe accepting God’s forgiveness towards YOU is your first step. But next, look inside your heart. Is there someone in your past or even sitting right next to you who you need to forgive? When I first started diving into this forgiveness pool I got upset and thought to myself “hey, wait a minute, this person shouldn't get off scot free…well, that's just not fair.” It is not for us to be judge and jury on anyone. God’s got that one taken care of. Thank goodness too. I don't want to stress about it anymore. I want that burden lifted from me so I can be free to love and enjoy this life God has given me. Ephesians 1:7 really helps me understand God’s forgiveness towards me and my sins. "Through the blood of his Son, we are set free from our sins. God forgives our failures because of his overflowing kindness." GOD'S WORD® Translation. Now in Colossians 3:13 I see about forgiving others as well, "Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." NIV.

Hopefully you reach that point where letting go and letting God is where you want to be. Pray about it and God will lead you down an amazingly free path.

Beyond the song,

Link to Joyful Noise lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

How He Loves Us

2010-02-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

You are valued.

You are cared for.

You are priceless.

You are loved.

Sometimes the storms of life keep us from remembering the reality of everything that surrounds us. We are so focused on what's in front of us - what's happening - that we forget to step back and remember there is so much more. So, so much more. Honestly, we forget in the midst of the storm that God is near. That He cares. That despite whatever might be happening, He LOVES us.

There are times in my own life when things have gotten hairy. When I felt as though nothing was going right. It was like I would take one hit after another. It was hard. It was defeating. It was beyond disappointing.

Reflecting back, I found that in those trial filled times I closed up. I went into "survival" mode-- meaning I just focused on getting through, solving all of the problems. Protecting myself. My heart became hard to any trust, to any hope because I had to "guard" myself from getting hurt again. I had to guard myself of anything else going wrong.

Guarded and alone.

Hurting.

Hopeless.

In those lonely times, I remember thinking about God. Often. I would think about the why's. I wonder about what was He thinking about my situation. What He was doing. Ultimately I find myself crying out to Him -- silence -- WHY? Where are YOU?

In 2008 I journaled about a time when I was in one of those storms. Here is an excerpt from that entry ....

"..........God and I have had many "duking it out sessions" with each other these past couple months. In my mind it has been like a boxing ring. In corner number 1 - Desyrae. And in corner number 2- He who has been....and always will be....GOD. Yep! I approached MANY conversations with God like that and no, they weren't me being gentle and meek. I have been angry and felt hurt by God.

For a few weeks now those conversations have stopped, and my heart is continually getting stronger, but the question "why?" has continued to haunt me day after day.....

On my walk home tonight, I finally listened. I listened to His answer. In those few quiet evening moments, God gave me a peace. He didn't tell me the "why's" tonight. And I know that I will probably never know. But I listened this evening to hear Him say this, that HE has been hurting with me. That He hasn't only been sitting on His throne, but that He has been on this journey right alongside me. God hasn't been numb to my pain. I have been numb to His presence during my pain. I realized that all of this time, when I have felt so alone. So far from God's hand, He's been right here this whole time. He was there and He is still here. I was numb to Him.

Tonight God answered all of my past "boxing session conversations" with this - that He has been the only one who really knows everything I have felt and hurt. The one I thought was farthest away, has been closer then ever this whole time. I learned as a little girl that He never promised any of us it would be easy. He only promised that He would never leave us. Never."

Ultimately, on my walk I was reminded of the simple fact that no matter what happens, no matter how much I close out, guard against, and even overlook.... I am cared for, HE cares for me. I am valued, HE finds me valuable. I am priceless, HE is jealous for me.

Lately, this Spotlight song has been stuck in my head. It's words bring so much comfort in knowing that the God who has always been, and always will be...loves me. He loves you. It's the comfort in knowing that in the storm, He's there. He love's you more then you will ever know.

I don't know what you might be going through. In life there are definitely seasons of sunshine and seasons of storms. My hope is that right now you are in the season of the Sun! But...if you're not, my hope for you is that you will find a peace beyond ALL understanding knowing that--

You are valued, HE finds YOU valuable.

You are cared for, HE cares for YOU.

You are priceless, HE is jealous for YOU.

You are loved, how HE loves you so.

This week may the words of this song be written on your heart. May you sing them over and over again and that the words never leave you. May you be confident when the next storm comes (and it will) that He will never leave you, He LOVES you so.

Beyond the Song-

Link to How He Loves Us lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Beyond Belief

2010-02-14T17:23:00.000-08:00

Over and over again this song repeats the phrase “beyond belief”. Why?

Because the life you live as a follower of Jesus is more than just believing in Him. It is action. Believing is just the beginning. The Bible says that even demons believe in Jesus!

So, what sets you apart? This song is full of truth. It talks about the action beyond the belief. Listen to this… “I give you my thoughts, I give you my song, I give you my days, I give you my nights, I give you my ways, I give you my life”. This isn’t play acting at church on Sunday and then the rest of the week you look and act like everyone else around you. This is the action of giving your life every moment to be lived in such a way Jesus will be proud to call you friend!

“No, my rights are not my own, No, my life is not my own”. Why? Because “Christ shed blood so that we could be purchased”. Jesus bought you with His life! If you want a pretty accurate picture of what Jesus experienced in the last 24 hours of His life, I would recommend you watch Mel Gibson’s film “The Passion of the Christ”.

Why do they refer to such torture as “the passion” of Christ? Passion is a deep, overwhelming emotion but I believe it goes way beyond emotion – it is talking about commitment. A commitment so strong that Jesus was willing to go through all the physical torture they could throw at Him. A commitment so strong He was willing to be separated from the Father as He cried out “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me!” (Matthew 27:46)

Yes, that commitment was for you and for me. But, first and foremost it was His commitment to His heavenly Father to accomplish the deliverance of you and me from the chains of sin.

Are you willing to move beyond belief? Are you willing to follow the example of Jesus? It takes commitment – it takes action!

Think of one thing, one activity, one attitude or whatever it might be that you need to give to Jesus. Go beyond just believing and give it to Jesus. Be different from this moment on!

Let me leave you with these lyrics from this song…

I forsake my ways, forsake my throne
Christ reigns supreme, Christ reigns the King
I'm nothing without Him
I Couldn't live, couldn't breathe
My life is worthless without worship

Your every thought and every action has the potential to be worship pleasing to God – don’t let lack of commitment trip you up.

Link to Beyond Belief lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Everyone To Know

2010-01-31T20:25:00.000-08:00

If you went to a new restaurant and thought it was incredible, would you tell your friends about it? Absolutely! What if you saw an amazing movie, or read a great book, would you keep it to yourself? Of course not! You would share it with your friends so they could experience it too. And yet, way too often, we keep something of much greater significance to ourselves when we should be sharing it with everyone. Something far more important than a great meal or phenomenal movie. . .our relationship with Christ.

(Now obviously, when I say that, I’m speaking directly to those of us that have already accepted Christ into our lives. But even if that’s NOT you, I encourage you to keep reading. I believe that there will still be plenty in this blog that could speak to you as well.)

We as Christians have received the incredible gift of God’s love. We have had the opportunity to see and experience it firsthand. But it can’t end there. It can’t be just about us. We have to be examples of Christ’s love to those around us. We have to give that love away. We have to share it without fear or reservation. We cannot keep it to ourselves because we’re afraid of how people might react.

If you were broken hearted and in pain and someone came along and poured their love out on you, changed your life, and gave you hope and joy in exchange for your sorrow and tears, would you share that with others? . . . . . . I hope so. We live in a world full of people that are broken hearted and in pain. They need a hero to rescue them, whether they want to admit it or not.

God’s love has the power to heal the hurting, give hope to the broken, give strength to the weak and rescue the lost. It is the only thing that will make us complete. The only thing that can fill the void in our lives that will forever exist without Christ. And if you have accepted Christ into your heart then you carry within you the knowledge of God’s love; a love that is boundless, unconditional and eternal; a love that you are obligated to share.

Let your life be a reflection of God’s love, peace, hope and joy to all of those around you who are weary or discouraged. Carry God’s love out to a world full of empty hearts that are seeking and longing for a Savior. We do and experience so many things in our lives. Some of these things are bad, some are good, and some are extraordinary. Some have little impact on us and others are life changing. And if you’ve accepted and experienced God’s love for yourself, don’t be selfish with it. Go out and tell the world. Let everyone know.

Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God. Eph. 5:1-2 (NLT)

This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. John 15:12 (NLT)

Loving you...

Beyond the song,

Link to Everyone To Know lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Nothing Without You

2010-01-25T15:27:00.000-08:00

I have a heard many people compare walking with Christ to the different age groups us humans experience. Like for an example a new Christian, regardless of age, may be considered a baby. Just learning how to walk. Some of us can hit that awkward teenage stage. Which can be a rebellious stance on not wanting to change our old ways. You know those things that seem oh so fun but oh so wrong in God’s eyes. And some of us get to experience the older, wiser, stable woman stage. This woman can stay cool and look right to Christ when things seem to be crumbling all around her. Truly, as women, we should all strive to be that woman. Not that she can’t hit stumbling blocks; but, she knows how to pick up her feet. Or, better yet, she knows how to let God pick up her feet.

So, what happens when you're floating through these different stages of your divine walk with Christ and well things start to go bad? Or, even things seem a little dull and you forget what truly matters to you. Old habits can die hard and they can easily creep up on you. You find yourself jumping head first into the pool of your desires. I have always noticed that when drama comes into my life, I go right back to my old ways. I guess it’s just a quick fix for the moment.

After the dust settles and you have come back to your senses or perhaps a friend helps by bringing your focus back on Christ. (Who are Gods little messengers to help us get back on track. And what a blessing they are!) At this point, you may find yourself looking back with regret and hopefully reflecting on how to avoid this in the future.

I can remember personally just feeling like there is no way I can get back on track. I have done some awful things - God must hate me. The wonderful thing is, God does not hate you. Hey, He does not like the sin, that's for sure. That does not change His love for us. Go ahead and hop right back on track. Right where you left off. Know that that little hiccup was just God refining you as a person to help keep you on track.

According to Dictionary.com ‘refining’ is defined as to bring to a fine or a pure state; free from impurities. And to become more fine, elegant, or polished. Wow seriously that is what God is doing. Refining our mind, body and spirit.

In Psalms 66:10 it says: You have tested us, O God. You have refined us in the same way silver is refined.

It's all God’s process and plan for us.

The song ‘Nothing Without You’, helped me realize that I may stumble but God does not want me to be away from Him. He is waiting for you and me to come back into his warm embrace. The even crazier thing is, it does not matter what we did to distance ourselves from God or how long we were gone. He is always waiting with open arms.

Beyond the song,

Link to Nothing Without You lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

City On Our Knees

2010-01-15T13:44:00.000-08:00

I sit here tonight, in the quiet of my house with a heavy heart. After spending my day at school reading twitters regarding Haiti, I came home and turned on my television to hear about the truth of the devastation.

So much pain. So much loss.

So much hope, lost.

People hurt. Lost. Families torn apart.

Truly devastating.

I watched with my husband and my son in my arms thinking how grateful I am to live where I live. To be in buildings that are "safe"... "sturdy."

To be in the comfort of our home, untouched from the 7.0 earthquake that happened Tuesday, January 12.

As I watched the news coverage. Hearing what seemed to be the same story said over and over. I found myself holding my breath for just a glimmer of hope. Something positive. I got to the point where I just wanted it to be turned off. It was painful to watch. Painful to imagine. Painful to accept so much hurt.

The news reporters were making reference to all of the aide being sent over by the United States. Help. Help was on the way in the form of food, people, medicine. The Red Cross was able to collect a huge amount of donations via twitter and text. Physical and financial help was headed to Haiti.

Wonderful news.

Much needed news.

People coming together to help.

News that makes me proud to be a citizen of this country.

But in that same moment my heart still ached. Looking at the coverage of these families. Countless many without homes. Missing family members. Or even worse, finding out that a loved one had passed away in the tragedy.

Hearts broken.

Hope lost.

Money...it doesn't fix the heart.

I found myself in the quietness of my head praying for those families whose pictures were being paraded across the television. People who the whole world was looking at the very same moment I was. Being watched while they face their greatest loss.

Psalm 34:18 says "The LORD is close to the brokenhearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

Brokenhearted.

Crushed.

I'm not in Haiti.

I can't offer a hug.

I can't tell those faces I saw that there's still hope.

That God loves them.

Psalms tell us....That HE's near.

So often, when we face loss we feel as though God is anywhere else but near us.

We blame HIM.

We question.

We doubt.

We lose hope.

No doubt tonight, this is what those precious people are feeling.

Are thinking.

It's heartbreaking.

There is no better way to love the people of Haiti than giving them the Hope that comes in Christ.

I'm not there

and, I can't be there.

But I can pray.

You can Pray.

The same God who is here with me, is there with YOU.

And that same God is with the people in Haiti. HE is all they need.

Let's offer our hand in hope.

Money will do great things, and will help no doubt.

People moving buildings and give medical attention, amazing.

But Christ alone can fix the heart.

HE can heal the brokeness.

HE can heal the crushed spirits.

May this tragedy spark us to seek hope.

And for those of us who know the Hope of Christ...may WE offer it to those who need it.

The people of Haiti are hurting.

But it doesn't stop there.

So many people are looking for hope.

Our world is hurting.

Our nation is hurting.

Your classmates are hurting.

It's our time.

If you gotta start somewhere why not here

If you gotta start sometime why not now
If we gotta start somewhere I say here
If we gotta start sometime I say now
Through the fog there is hope in the distance
From cathedrals to third world missions
Love will fall to the earth like a crashing wave

The Bible promises us that there is power in prayer.

When all else seems lost.

With so many around us lost.

When we don't know what to do.

We can pray.

Matthew 18:19-20 "Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them."

Mark 10:27 Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God."

Psalm 46:1-2a "God is our refuge and strength. An ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way... "

What's impossible, He makes possible.

Tonight's the night.

Father, may YOUR loving arm reach down to the people of Haiti.

To hurting people.

To lost people.

To my neighbors next door.

May YOUR love fall on the world like a crashing wave.

Use me.

Use us.

It's time to start.

Tonight's the night.

Beyond The Song -

Link to City On Our Knees lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Held

2010-01-03T19:25:00.000-08:00

Remember when you were little and you woke up crying in the middle of the night because you had a nightmare? All you wanted was to be held by your mommy; to feel safe again and to be comforted. Remember?

Well, no matter how old you get, that feeling doesn’t go away. When life gets you down, when love seems to go wrong, when you have a fight with your best friend, or a million other things you could name, what is it you want? To be held!

Jesus never said if you follow Him you would never have troubles in your life. He did say He would always be there to hold you and comfort you, to make you feel safe again when life gets overwhelming or just plain ugly!

Are you in a spot right now where you just need to be held? There are times in life where being held by a mother, friend or boyfriend helps but you still feel something lacking. Jesus is the only one who is able to truly meet that need.

I know, you’re wondering how in the world can Someone you can’t see or touch hold you? You and I are spirit beings in a physical body. The spiritual realm is reality. We tend to think along the lines of “if we can’t see it or touch it, it isn’t real”. Would you open your spiritual eyes to “see” that you and I connect not only on the physical level but also on the spiritual level? When you interact with other people (especially with those you love), you not only do it through the five senses but also through a spiritual connection.

Have you ever wondered why it hurts within you when you have a fight with someone you are very close to? The pain isn’t a physical pain but you still feel it! In the same way (as you feel the pain of problems in relationships) you can also feel the closeness and love of a relationship even when the other person isn’t around.

As a follower of Jesus Christ, you have a spiritual connection with Him. It is the most intimate spiritual connection you can have – way beyond the connection of boyfriend/girlfriend, wife/husband or parent/child. Why? Because you have the Holy Spirit within you! This is a mystery to you and me how this can be but God the Holy Spirit is connected to us, to our spirits! He doesn’t live in our physical heart or even in one particular place within us. He is melded to our spirits – we have become one with Him!

Open up yourself to this truth. Can you begin to understand the realness of being held by your Lord and Savior? You don’t need to touch or see something physically to feel its effect on you. So it is with Jesus!

Run into the arms of Jesus dear one! He’s waiting for you!!

Beyond the song,

Link to Held lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

It's Your Life

2009-12-27T14:02:00.000-08:00

It’s your life…what you gonna do? Life is full of choices. What you choose to do each and every day is an advertisement of who and what you are. What is your life speaking about you?

Are you giving out mixed signals? Do you advertise your faith in Jesus with your Christian friends but advertise something else entirely when you are with a different set of non-Christian friends? Would your friends at school be surprised you go to church because you advertise with your actions a different reality? Would your church friends be surprised at the way you act when you are not around them? Are you like a chameleon that changes it’s “looks” to blend in with its surroundings?

Jesus says in Luke 9:26 “If anyone is ashamed of me and my message, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he returns in his glory and in the glory of the Father and the holy angels.” Think about it…ask yourself this question… “Am I ashamed to show EVERYONE that I follow Jesus”? Only you can answer this question for yourself! Can you be totally honest with yourself? Really look inside yourself and identify the feelings that cause you to act and make those everyday choices. Are you looking for love and acceptance from people or are you looking to Jesus for them?

The year 2009 is almost gone. You can do nothing about the past. It is gone, never to return. Only the consequences of your choices in the past follow you into tomorrow. Wouldn’t you like the future to be full of consequences from making good choices? The new year is almost here. It can be a time of new beginnings.

Choose to be true to Jesus no matter what set of friends you are hanging with at the moment. Choose to follow Jesus and make those choices you know He would approve of even if everyone else is doing something different. Choose to stop and think about your actions and words and what they might be advertising to those that are watching you. I won’t lie to you – it isn’t always easy to do this! But, I speak from personal experience, you won’t wake up some day with a lifetime of regrets and wishing you had done things differently.

2010 – a new year just waiting for you to choose. What will it be? New beginnings? Or, will you choose just the same old way of doing life? Will you be pleasing Jesus? Or, will you be trying to win approval from others? Will you choose to be who Jesus wants you to be? Or, will you choose to be what the world you live in says you should be? Will you love Jesus with all that you are (body, mind and heart)? Or, will you love yourself above all things – even God?

I pray your life from this moment on will be lived totally and fully only for Jesus – without fear or shame that you follow Him!

It’s your life…what you gonna do?

Beyond the song,

Link to It's Your Life lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

O Holy Night

2009-12-21T07:22:00.000-08:00

A song that has been sung a thousand different times a thousand different ways, and my personal favorite Christmas carol, O Holy Night depicts the night many nights ago when our savior Jesus Christ was born. Can you even imagine what must have been going on in Joseph and Mary’s head’s? Mary, a young girl of about 15 years old, is about to deliver her first baby, a baby that was conceived within her by the Holy Spirit none the less. That’s no ordinary bun in the oven! Joseph on the other hand is probably freaking out of his mind because his girlfriend has spontaneously become pregnant when she says she is a virgin. Kind of fishy right? From the outside it sounds like a bunch of bad news all the way around. Who would have guessed that this would end up being the best news anyone could have received?

Don’t forget those three kings of Orient are bearing gifts and travelling so far. After following that star of wonder, star of night, star with royal beauty bright, how on earth do you decide what to bring the son of God in the flesh? Honestly now, what do you give the one person who already has everything he could ever want? That’s a really tough question. As if Christmas shopping couldn’t get any harder!

God has already given us so much. He’s given us life and all that goes along with it in hopes that we would all have a personal relationship with him. Some have refused him, some have acknowledged him, some worship him ceaselessly, and some don’t even know he exists. If He wanted, God could have made us all an army of God worshiping clones, stopping at nothing until he was fully satisfied. He didn’t. He made every single person on this earth very unique. He wanted us all to learn who God is at our own pace and circumstance. Not everyone becomes a believer at the same time, and not everyone has the same walk with God. Like I said, we are all different, and you know why? God has given us something that truly defines how great a God he is.

Free choice.

He loves His children so much that he wants us to decide on our own to return the love He has shown us. A big brother little sister scenario comes to mind. The big brother sees a toy that little sister is playing with. Brother takes the toy and makes sister cry. Mom interferes and tells brother he has to apologize to little sister. He reluctantly mutters, “I’m sorry I took your toy,” but were his words sincere? No, because he was given an order. That’s why God gave us the power of free will. No one likes a faker.

Take some time this Christmas season and evaluate where you are with the Lord. Have you given him a second thought? As you hear the story of his birth, think about what you can give the God who has everything. Maybe it’s a few minutes of your time and just talk to Him one on one. Maybe there is heaviness in your heart that you want to confess. Whatever it is, make it personal, make it sincere. Think of God’s face when he gets to open what you bring to his feet, not all wrapped up in paper, bows, and string, but wrapped up in love and sincerity.

Beyond the song,

Sarah

Link to O Holy Night lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Christmas Must Be Something More

2009-12-14T22:09:00.000-08:00

So what is the first thing that comes to your mind when I say December 25th? I would assume, for most of you the answer would be Christmas. Now, what if I asked you what comes to your mind when you think of Christmas? I want you to seriously take a minute a think about it. Even better, grab a piece of paper and start writing down a list of everything that comes to your mind . . . seriously.

So, what was on your list? Christmas trees, presents, Santa Claus, ornaments, mistletoe, wreaths, Frosty the Snowman, and reindeer? Stockings, candy canes, eggnog, gingerbread houses, lights, tinsel, fudge, nutcrackers, and the Grinch?? These are all wonderful, exciting things that come with the Christmas season. But now for my next question (yep, I’m full of them.) How many things did you think of before the thought of Jesus Christ crossed your mind? Or did you think of him right away. Does your list look like the one above and stop there? Or did it include things like the birth of Christ, Mary and Joseph, a manger, and the wise men?

This song is not about a question searching for an answer. It’s a statement. Christmas MUST BE something more. The trees, the gifts, the candy canes, all of it . . . they mean nothing without Jesus.

It truly amazes me how politically incorrect Christmas has become. People want to put up their “holiday” trees, sing “holiday” songs, and go “holiday” shopping. I just want to scream at these people, “are you kidding me!!?? It’s a Christmas tree for crying out loud!!” Nobody wants to give up all the “stuff” of Christmas. They just want to get rid of the reason we celebrate it.

Imagine something with me for a minute. Your birthday is coming up. Everyone you know has the day marked off on their calendars. They’re excited and can’t wait to celebrate. They’re buying gifts, putting up decorations and counting down the days. And then finally the big day arrives. The stores shut down and the schools close, all for YOUR birthday!! You’re feeling incredible!! You are little Miss Popularity!! People must genuinely love you to go to all of this trouble just to celebrate you. . . . But then you realize. You didn’t get a single invitation. In fact, nobody really wants you around. Some people are even going out of their way to get rid of you all together. I assume you know where I’m going with this. What good is celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ (and that is exactly what Christmas is) if you’re gonna leave Him out? God sent His Son to save the world, and that is what we should be celebrating.

Christmas is by far my favorite time of year. I love everything about it, everything that’s on that list above and so much more.  But sometimes I have to remind not just my kids why we celebrate Christmas but myself too. It is so easy to get swept up in the things of Christmas and ignore the Birthday Boy. But try not to. On Christmas morning, as you tear into presents, remember why the day is so special. And everytime someone wishes you, “Happy Holidays,” just smile at them and then boldly wish them a “Merry Christmas!”

Loving You . . . and Merry CHRISTmas!

Beyond the song,

Link to Christmas Must Be Something More lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Shadows

2009-12-06T20:34:00.000-08:00

Life is full of light and shadows

Oh the joy and oh the sorrow, oh the sorrow

And yet will He bring day from night

And yet will He bring dark to light

When shadows fall on us

We will not fear

We will remember

When darkness falls on us

We will not fear

We will remember

When all seems lost

When we’re thrown and we’re tossed

We’ll remember the cost

We’re resting in the shadow of the cross

These are the lyrics for my song of choice. I just had to write them down because they are so powerful to me. The song is called Shadows by David Crowder Band. I try to listen to Christian music as much as possible. But occasionally I will listen to secular (non-christian) music. As I was flipping through the stations the other day, I came across a song that had a hot beat. So I decided to listen to it. Within a few seconds the lyrics began to really get inside my head. The song is Wasted by Gucci Mane. I know you might be saying to yourself “well I don't have his music on my ipod”. Some may say "oh I love that song." Here are some of the lyrics:

Rock star lifestyle might don't make it

Livin life high everyday click wasted

Sippin on purple stuff rollin up stanky

Wake up in the morning 10 clock drankin

Party party party lets all get wasted

Shake it fa me baby girl do it @#%% naked

I'm so wasted she so wasted

Tell the bartender send me 20 more cases

Now read the lyrics for Shadows. Talk about night and day. Some may not even realize how much songs can affect their mood, prayer life and attitude towards others. But music can sway our moods. The thing is God wants... well he wants us. All of us. Can you honestly focus on God while listening to the song Wasted? Or even half the songs on everyday radio stations?

Now, I'm not saying to completely throw out all music that isn't Christian. But be careful and aware when the radio is on. You could be at friend’s house just hanging out listening to music and having fun. At some point a song could come on that has you not feeling right. Now, I'm not telling you to jump up and storm out of there and ditch your friend. There are many different ways to handle the situation. If you are really uncomfortable listening to this music, you could stand and be bold, explain you would rather listen to something else. If someone asks why, tell them about Jesus. Hey you never know, God provides opportunities to share Him in the craziest of ways. You could say nothing but pray to God for strength to look beyond the song and focus on Him. It is all up to you. Courage comes in many different forms. A loud protest of God’s faithful courage living within you or just a sweet whisper of God’s love, both can show all where you stand.

Ask God for guidance. If you truly listen to him He will lead you down His path.

Proverbs 1:5 "let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance"

Psalms 119: 35 "Make me walk along the path of your commands, for that is where my happiness is found"

Just some scriptures to think about on your journey. Take care and God Bless.

Beyond the song,

Link to Shadows lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Last Christmas

2009-11-29T17:34:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is over.

So much to be grateful for and so much to focus on in the year to come.

Black Friday, done. Confession time...

I was a crazy early bird shopper.

What can I say? I'm a girl who shops for bargains!

Welcome Christmas season!

I am so excited to get to be the first writer to "spotlight" on a Christmas Song. I truly love and embrace this time of year. The lights. The shopping. The food. Santa. The cheer in children's eyes. Beautifully decorated Christmas Trees. Fireplaces burning. Snow (not in Sacramento mind you.) A "no water Chai with whip." The Grinch, Rudolph, and all of the sappy Christmas love story movies.

And yes ... lastly, Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without the music. There's something about Christmas music. I'm not sure if it's the fact that most of the songs we listen to today at Christmastime were the same songs we listened to as little ones? Or how they make you feel warm and fuzzy inside? But in my opinion there's always been a magic about the Christmas season, and the carols of Christmas definitely play a big part.

However, this post isn't about a carol, or even a traditional Christmas chorus. This song is one you know, but maybe this Christmas you will see it in a different light.

In opening this spotlight I made a list of the reasons I love this time of year. These are the things that make Christmas so different than any other holiday. However, for me, these things I love are also the things that cause me to lose my focus on the true meaning. My heart gets so wrapped up in finding the right gifts, decorating the house, staying busy at holiday parties with family and friends--all GREAT things, but these things also take away from the focus.

Ultimately I end up giving so much of myself , my "heart" to other things. In the end the season can pass by so quickly, leaving me disappointed. Christmas passes and it feels like something is missing, as though I forgot something. In the busyness sometimes the most important detail can be overlooked or even got lost. And I am left to wonder where is my heart this season?

Christmas is a time to celebrate the gift of Christ. Over 2,000 years ago Christ was born. His birth and eventual death fulfilled a promise. A promise that IF WE give HIM our hearts, we will live forever with Him.

John 3:16 "For God SO loved the world, that HE gave HIS one and only son. That whosoever believes in him will not perish but have everlasting life."

Are you celebrating THAT this Christmas?
This Holiday season, what are you focused on?
What or who are you giving your heart to?

Have you given it to Christ?
The TRUE meaning of Christmas.

This season, there are a lot of things to enjoy and to cherish, but don't give them your heart. That was last Christmas. This year don't get so wrapped up in the festivities you forget to really give God the one gift He wants.

You. Your heart.
He sent His only son on the very first Christmas.
A special gift, just for YOU.
This year, to save you from tears...
will you protect your heart from the hustle and bustle, and give it only to Him?

Sending you the warmest Christmas Wishes.

Beyond the song-

Link to Last Christmas lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

I Do Not Belong

2009-11-18T12:37:00.000-08:00

I was a pre-teen. I can't remember how old. I just remember my group of girlfriends was midway in one of their dramatic tirades, this one mad at that one for some ridiculous reason. My mom found me sitting at the piano, pondering the annoyance.

"Why do people act like this?" I asked her, "I just feel different, like I don't think like anyone else."

"That's funny," she said, " I always felt that way too."

It's reality. Each of us was created as a unique individual. We are created for a relationship with our Creator. Being unique, sometimes, means we feel alone. Some more than others. But if you look at the world around us, you see it's true. Girls throw themselves away for the attention of a guy. Guys lose their identity in the pursuit of money, fame, or respect. Hollywood - where people are suppose to be the wealthiest, happiest, most successful of all- is full of broken relationships, plastic facade, overdoses and pain.

We don't belong... HERE. This world, our lives - were never meant to be about US. It's universal and historical, whenever people or society turn their focus from God to themselves and their pleasure, they start to, basically, go insane. Example: hundreds of people groups in the Old Testament who so desperately wanted their way, that they sacrificed their infant children in flames to some lifeless idol. We're doing it in America too, except some sacrifice their children or themselves to ideas or images of success. Instead of actually dying, we become... soulless and without purpose. We aren't made for this world - and when we try to fit in here, if we give our lives to pursue that, we really can lose our souls.

Matthew 16:26 What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?

We DO belong... with Him. I love the line in this song when he says "you have the rest of me." You've heard it called the God-shaped hole. Everyone has it. It is us feeling disconnected from our Maker because of sin. But when we have Jesus, when we are free of sin, we can be in the presence of our Creator and be whole. We are whole in HIM, not because we have a positive mental attitude or a strong self-esteem. We are whole because of who HE says we are. On our own, we'll always be missing out. Because only the designer fully understands the extent his creation can reach. We cannot know ourselves as well as Him who made us.

This world is not my home. I'm a stranger in this land. But I am not alone..."

You're not alone. There are tons of people just like you, unique, in their created way, who long for that connection. Some of them don't even realize they're hungry for God. You can use your understanding of "not belonging" to reach out to them, and point them toward Christ. The only way back to God.

You know, in the grand scheme of things, if this awkwardness we sometimes feel comes because we are, for a time, missing the piece of our puzzle that is God, then not belonging is... well, pretty cool in my opinion ;).

Singing over you...

Beyond the song,

Link to I Do Not Belong lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Finally Free

2009-11-15T15:55:00.000-08:00

Ever feel like your life is a prison? There seems to be no escape from the daily circumstances. Or maybe you can’t break away from the so called “friends” you have chosen. Maybe there are things you do to yourself and you can’t seem to control your own actions. No matter how hard you try to break free, the chains still weigh you down and you still see your life through “prison bars”!

Did you know Jesus died for you to set you free? Did you know He came back to life so you could have new life?

No matter what you have done… No matter what has been done to you… No matter how far you have travelled down the wrong road… No matter what choices you have made… Jesus can set you free!

Did you see that? I said JESUS IS ABLE TO SET YOU FREE!

You might be thinking “how do you know Jesus can set me free from ________?” Because I KNOW what Jesus has done for me. Because I have SEEN what Jesus has done for others.

Alchohol. Drugs. Sex. Self-mutilation. There are many choices you make which put you behind those “prison bars”.

Sexual/physical/emotional abuse. Rape. You name it. There are those things others choose to do to you where the “prison doors” clang shut with a grating and horrifying bang.

Maybe it’s nothing so bad as those things mentioned above. The truth is – it doesn’t matter what your prison is. Jesus will set you free. This is what Jesus says in John 8:36 “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” That is His promise.

But, you have to do something first. You have to walk toward Jesus. You have to give Him your heart – all of it. Freedom only comes when you give yourself completely to Him (totally and without holding anything back).

I know for many years I thought I could live any way I wanted to and still be a Christian. The more I lived for myself, the more miserable I became. The more I tried to do things my way, the more my life was messed up. Trying to “fix” my relationships only led to pain. Can you relate to what I’m saying?

Only when I finally said to Jesus…

“I can’t do this on my own anymore. My life is a mess… I’m a mess… I don’t want to do it my way anymore – I want to do it your way. Take me – all that I am and all that I have, all that I ever will be or have – I give myself to you. No turning back… No looking back… Yesterday is dead and gone. I am a new person living and breathing through your power Jesus. Take away any and all longings or cravings for my old way of living. Set me free from my old way of thinking and acting. I am yours from this moment forward!”

…did my life start to change. Like this song says, I was Finally Free!

Are you ready to be free? Don’t walk, RUN to Jesus!

Beyond the song,

Link to Finally Free lyrics
Ling to other Spotlight Songs

Dead Serious

2009-11-07T09:55:00.000-08:00

Dare to be different!

I know when I was in high school I didn’t want to be different – I wanted to blend in. I wanted to be just like everyone else. I mean, I had my own personality but too many times I acted against who I really was so I would be accepted. You know what I’m talking about?

This song reminds me of the movie A Walk to Remember… If you have never watched this movie, I would really recommend it – great movie. The main character is a young woman in high school who is a Christian and the daughter of a minister. The leading male character is one of the “coolest” guys on campus and a resident “bad boy”. Through a set of circumstances they are thrown into each other’s lives. I don’t want to ruin the story for you (LOL!) but I want to leave you with a question. Who do you think has the greatest impact on the other person? Does the young woman who is a Christian have more of an impact on the young man who is the resident “bad boy”? Or, is it the other way around? Go check it out :-)

The problem with trying to blend in or fit in or be accepted is you end up compromising some very important values along the way. Jesus didn’t call you to be His disciple so you could go on your merry way doing what everyone else in the world is doing – living contrary to His best plans for them.

Jesus said in Matthew 5:15-16 “Here's another way to put it: You're here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We're going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don't think I'm going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I'm putting you on a light stand. Now that I've put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you'll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.” (The Message)

Jesus is saying not to hide your faith in Him but to bring it out into the open for all to see. Why is that do you think? When you dare to be different and stand strong in your faith, you are Jesus’ representative. There may be someone who sees the difference in you and will want what they see in you – Jesus.

I started out at the top of this blog saying “dare to be different” and I repeat it here. Dare to be different! Stand out in the crowd but for the right reasons. Don’t be afraid to be who Jesus wants you to be. He was “dead serious” about His love for you when He went to the cross and died for you. What kind of love do you show for Him? Is it the “dead serious” kind of love? Is it the kind of love which says “I don’t care what others think or if they laugh at me because I belong to Jesus”?

He suffered beatings and His back being cut to shreds down to the bone for you! He sacrificed Himself for you by giving His life… What are you giving Him in return? Just the part of you that goes to church on Sunday? Or, is it the everyday, getting up and going to school and hanging with friends, part of you.

Will you dare to be different for Jesus?

Beyond the song,

Link to Dead Serious lyrics
Link to other Spotlight Songs

Rest

2009-10-31T13:37:00.000-07:00

How often do you get overwhelmed with life? How many times a day do you get frustrated with school or work and think that it’s all way too much to handle?

I work as a teacher’s assistant in a preschool classroom. If you have ever spent time with a 4 year old, you know they can be a handful to manage sometimes. Imagine a classroom filled with 20 of them! The noise is often above a tolerant level, messes are unavoidable, pages get ripped out of books, tears fall down chubby cheeks because someone’s little fingers got stepped on, and food gets thrown across the room. At the end of the day, I often find myself prepared to bolt out the door as fast as I can to get away from the frustration from the day. Sometimes I want to rip my hair out because it seems too much to handle, I need help, I’m overwhelmed with stress, time has stood still and it seems like the day will never end. I need to get away, relax, unwind, search for solitude, rest.

For some, this is life all the time with no breaks; they can’t leave the classroom at the end of the day. You may not have to look after a herd of little children but other responsibilities, or pressures, may build up in your life that seem out of your ability to handle. Maybe someone close to you passed away, an unthinkable crime has been committed, or your little brother is just getting on your last nerve.

Small to large stresses and burdens come in all sizes, but the good thing about them is that God wants to take them all from you. When was the last time you talked to Him? He wants to hear about your bad days and your good days, the times when you wish the day would never end, even the bad hair days. He’s always waiting to hear from you, anticipating the tears that just might fall. Just like that close friend, confidante, that always listens because they care about you.

He’s waiting for that load, that heavy load that you cannot bear anymore; He’s waiting with His glove ready to catch your fastball. Maybe you made a bad decision the other day that you feel badly about. Maybe that math test got the better of you and you took a peak over at your neighbor’s test. Their answer looked better than a blank answer on your paper right?

On a regular basis I will catch one of my students doing something they know is wrong. I get down at their eye level and ask them if they did the accused crime. You can see the shame and pain in their eyes; it almost burns their big eyes to meet mine. They don’t want to fess up to what they know I saw them doing. We all just need to let go of what we are holding onto. Like the song says, “Hey I know you’re scared to look in my eyes, when you know that something’s wrong I’ll wait as long as it takes, for you to find grace, it’s been here all along.” God sent His one and only son, Jesus, to earth. Jesus died to save all of us from our wrong doings, the smallest of sins, right down to the last negative attitude. The miracle of grace is that we have already been forgiven of every last sin, even the ones we will make tomorrow. Let your Heavenly Father take them from you. Let the wave of His love crash over you and clean you from your hurts, pain, and bad choices. Even when we feel distant from Him, he’s always ready to pick up the conversation right where you left it.

“Hey where have you been”? Just like a friend who has not seen or heard from you in a long time. It’s a simple question, but the answer may not always be as easy, a little more complex. It may hold a lot of pain and hurt. If you take the time to look back and relive the snapshots of your past, what will your response be? Come now just let it go, let it fall down…come to Him as you are dirty and broken…Let the water wash over your soul till there’s nothing left.. Won’t you come to Him and rest?

Beyond the song,

Sarah

Link to Rest lyrics

Link to other Spotlight Songs

Crawl (Carry Me Through)

2009-10-24T14:42:00.000-07:00

I was in high school. I hung up the phone and started to cry. My boyfriend and I had just broke up and I was broken hearted. Now, years later, the boy doesn’t matter, the break-up doesn’t matter. What matters is that on that night, as I lay in my bed crying myself to sleep, my daddy was sitting there with me. He knew that this wasn’t the end of the world and he knew that I would get through it. But what he also knew was that right then, in that time and place in my life, I needed him to hold me. And he did. He held me, he hurt for me, and he stayed with me until I found sleep.

There seems to be a common misconception that once we accept Christ, our life should be peachy-keen and trouble free. Well, if that’s you then I hate to burst your bubble but NO WHERE in scripture does God promise us an easy or trouble free life. (In fact, the opposite is actually true.) But what God does promise is that He will go and be with us in the hard times. That He will comfort us, strengthen us and carry us through.

We will all experience hard times in our lives (not we might, we WILL.) We will feel alone, lost, and scared. We will question God. We will wonder why. We will wonder if God even sees what we are going through. And the answer to that last question is YES! Psalm 56:8 says, “You've kept track of my every toss and turn through the sleepless nights, each tear entered in your ledger, each ache written in your book.” (The Message)

God knows and sees it all. Our hurts, our scars, our secrets. He makes it His business to know our pain. You might get to the point where you feel like you can’t take it anymore. But just like the song says,

“I bend but don’t break.
Somehow I get through.
Because I have You.”

So when you come to that place where you feel like you’re gonna break, that’s when you have to remember that you have God. And with Him you can get through ANYTHING! No matter how hurt or lost you feel, God will find you. He knows right where you are. When you are at the end of yourself, God doesn’t leave you there alone. He will find you! He will be with you!

So take God at his word. He WILL prove faithful. He will crawl with you, and when necessary, He will carry you through. God doesn’t promise a trouble free life. But when you invite him to come into yours, you have someone that will always sit with you, and hold you as you cry yourself to sleep.

Beyond the song,

Link to Crawl (Carry Me Through) lyrics

Link to other Spotlight Songs

Believe

2009-10-17T07:34:00.000-07:00

"When all around me starts to fall,
And when my faith it seems so small,
Even in my darkest hour I will believe,
Even if the sun begins to fall,
Even when I feel nothing at all
Even if I'm all alone I will believe"

Lyrics from my song of choice. The band is Mainstay. I first heard this song at a Jeremy Camp concert. Mainstay was opening for him. When I heard this song. I just sat there in silence and began replaying the song over and over again. As time went on it became my "prayer song". A lot of times I just really have no clue what to say to God or even what to pray for. Even though I know God knows my aches, pains and desires, I still feel I want to say something to Him. So a song like Believe really allows me to close my eyes and just sing to God. It can be a quiet and private moment. Or you can pretend like you are trying out for American Idol and instead of mean Simon starring at you, you can picture Jesus. Its your thing its your moment to allow the words you really want to say to flow out of you.

Music is so powerful! You can say so much through a song. Many people dedicate songs to one another. Without saying a word to that person the song can poetically describe how you may be feeling. You can apply that same theory to say what you want to say to God. If you listen to Christian radio next time you hear a song that really recites how you feel about Jesus, send a shout out and sing that song to Him. Treat it like a prayer. Allow your heart to sing sweet melodies to God. With all the other music out there drowning our hearts in negativity. What a blessing it is to have such great Christian music to inspire you to live your life right and to help light all your darkest hours with Gods presence.

Music is the instrument of the soul that God has given us to use to Glorify Him.

"Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord" Ephesians 5:19.

"[A song; a psalm by David.] My heart is confident, O God. I want to sing and make music even with my soul" Psalm 108:1.

Just a few scriptures to remind you that the Bible expresses love for God through music.

Beyond the song...

Link to Believe lyrics

Link to other Spotlight Songs

Walk On The Water

2009-10-10T12:20:00.000-07:00

I've been really challenged in my prayer life to prayerfully be seeking what's next? Not that I am necessarily expecting anything. But as a person who doesn't exactly embrace change, God's really been putting on my heart to change that....no pun intended. To really be open to whatever He has for me. This is a hard thing. As I reflect on the many places God has taken me and the challenge it was for HIM to get me there, I realize looking back HE has nothing but the best in store for me. Growing up my dad always told me "Des, if you are comfortable-- you aren't being challenged." Now, I can officially say that I am not comfortable, God is challenging me with new things everyday. Some "things" that bring about changes that can be hard to accept, and some that are easy. However, even though I don't consider myself in a comfortable place right now, I always want to be seeking God for what HE wants from me next. So that I don't be become comfortable or complacent.

James 1:2-3 ² Dear (brothers) and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. ³ For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. (New Living Translation)

As I have been challenged to pray this for my own life, this song in particular has found a fond place in my heart.

It was only about a month ago that I was introduced to Britt Nicole (not personally) and her amazing voice. I love her words, and the chord she strikes as she sings about the love of our Father, and journey of life.

In listening to this song I was inspired. Remembering the "greats" in the Bible, who really were just average people, living life. Challenged by their own insecurities, but overcome with deep desire to do whatever God wanted of them.

This song in particular refers to the story of Peter from the book of Matthew chapter 14.

^{22 Immediately after this (feeding the 5,000), Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people home. 23 After sending them home, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone.
24 Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. 25 About three o’clock in the morning[b] Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!”
27 But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here![c]”
28 Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.”
29 “Yes, come,” Jesus said.
So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the strong[d] wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted.
31 Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?”} (New Living Translation)

Faith.

Doubt.

Insecurity.

We as humans struggle with trust. It is so hard trust other people, to trust love, to trust any sort of kindness, and it is even hard for us at times to trust God. Like Peter, we know God is good. That He is capable of protecting us. But in an instant, we forget. We loose sight of Him. We loose sight of the goodness he has in store for us.

If we would only move.

Take that next step.

See what's out there.

God has a calling on each of our lives.

A journey He's waiting for YOU to accept.

David had to pick up stones...to defeat Goliath. (1 Samuel 17)

Esther had to face the King...in order to save her people. (The book of Esther)

Peter had to step out of the boat...to walk on Water with Christ.

Moses, Jonah, Noah, John the Baptist, Paul....the list goes on and on...!

Taking a step in faith is huge.

Monumental.

It takes guts.

Heart.

Confidence.

God is calling you to something beyond your greatest dreams.

Something He has designed ONLY for you.

I really want to challenge you to embrace the unknown of change.

Don't be afraid.

Don't wait, don't miss out on what you were made for!

You were created for more.

Step out.

Seek what's next.

He won't let you go!

Deuteronomy 31:6 (The Message) ⁶ "Be strong. Take courage. Don't be intimidated. Don't give them a second thought because God, your God, is striding ahead of you. He's right there with you. He won't let you down; he won't leave you."

Believing in Him with you.

Beyond the Song-

Link to Walk On The Water lyrics

Link to other Spotlight Songs

A More Beautiful You

2009-10-03T13:00:00.000-07:00

I think I was 14 the first time I really wore make up. I'm not even sure why I decided to. But I remember my friend Yolanda saying, "You're not wearing make up, are you?" "Uh, a little," I replied. "Don't wear make-up," she said, "It ruins your skin."

Without knowing it, Yolanda handed me a freedom that day. Now, did I never wear make up again? No. I do wear a little - mostly to cover the I'm-a-mommy-therefore-I-never-sleep-plus-they're-genetic circles under my eyes. BUT, she told me that I was beautiful for who I was, not an image or an expectation or something everybody else was doing.

Beloved little sisters, there's a toxic message in America today. It's not wrong to look pretty. It's not. But when you and I begin subscribing to our culture's definition of what beautiful is... when we start to worship our bodies and our appearances by obsessing over our eating habits and bowing at the altar of our hair and our make-up and (get ready, this one's gonna hurt) the latest fashion trend, we are not living completely for Jesus.

Ask yourself this... How much time did you spend reading the Bible and praying today? Ok... how much time did you spend on your hair, make-up and clothes?

I'm not saying that we should all walk around looking "frumpish" to be godly. Truth is, Jesus told people they were to be well-groomed even when fasting - so it would be about worship and not attention. Still, in America, we go too far; we worship image.

Sad thing is, it's backfiring. You know what I mean. You've seen the pictures of the women in their 70's who have had too much botox. Instead of possessing the grace and beauty of a woman who has aged naturally, they look like melted barbie dolls. Satan dangles beauty in our faces. If we focus on it too much or for too long, it becomes an addiction, like anything else. I'm not saying plastic surgery is a sin per se. But here's what the Bible says:

1 Peter 3:3-4 (New International Version) ³Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. ⁴Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight.

See, it doesn't say outward beauty is bad! It says it isn't TRUE beauty. TRUE beauty comes from having the peace of God in your heart. Have you ever met someone like that? Maybe she wasn't the MOST beautiful girl, but you WANTED the peace she had?

See, babe, that's God's desire for you - to find your TRUE purpose in HIM. But if we spend all our time chasing fashion trends and looking the part, we might... just... miss it... And that's not even MENTIONING all the complications and brokenness that come from eating disorders, surgeries and sexual choices that branch out from our obsession with appearance.

The bridge of this song is so powerful to me. I honestly cry EVERY time I hear it. Read it again...

So turn around you’re not too far
To back away be who you are
To change your path go another way
It’s not too late you can be saved
If you feel depressed with past regrets
The shameful nights hope to forget
Can disappear they can all be washed away
By the one who’s strong can right your wrongs
Can rid your fears dry all your tears
And change the way you look at this big world
He will take your dark distorted view
And with His light He will show you truth
And again you’ll see through the eyes of a little girl

I love the last line "And again you'll see through the eyes of a little girl" - THAT is what the enemy wants to rob you of - your innocence - your truth - the essence of WHO YOU ARE! WHAT YOU WERE CREATED FOR! Take away the make up. Take away your hair cut. Take away your clothing trend of choice. WHO ARE YOU? Do you feel the call of Jesus on your heart? Is he whispering your name? Do you see the road he has set before you? Do you feel his purpose drawing you?

I was 17, standing on a beach in Mexico... looking down the sand toward the club where my "friends" were all getting drunk and being stupid - chasing the world's definition of beauty. I wasn't into drinking. I have a sick obsession with reality and drunk=real, altered. ANYWAY. In that moment as I looked down the beach, realizing, just like that day when I was 14, that I'd somehow ended up surrounded by trends I didn't necessarily agree with or want in my life. In that moment, I heard the voice of the Holy Spirit in my heart. "Tammi, this is the choice. You either choose this life (broken, wounded, messed up), or you choose the life I have for you. There is no middle road."

The most beautiful you is the YOU Christ created you to be - no make-up, no perfect body, no image - the you behind all that - whether you're 14 or 70. Christ in YOU.

Don’t buy the lies disguises and hoops they make you jump through
You were made to fill a purpose that only you could do
So there could never be a more beautiful you

Love you,

Beyond the song,

Link to A More Beautiful You lyrics

Link to other Spotlight Songs

Beyond The Song

Free To Be Me

Beauty Secrets

Blue

I AM

God Is Enough

Hurricane

Mercy

My Own Little World

Small Enough

What Can I Bring

Sticks and Stones

At The Cross

BEAUTY SECRETS

In My Arms

I'm Not Alright

I Need You to Love Me

Forgiven and Loved

What I've Overcome

Butterfly Kisses

What Matters Most

Fallen

Awaken

Replace Me

Alive

In the Words (of Satan)

Beautiful Jesus

Gotta Grow

Joyful Noise

How He Loves Us

Beyond Belief

Everyone To Know

Nothing Without You

City On Our Knees

Held

It's Your Life

O Holy Night

Christmas Must Be Something More

Shadows

Last Christmas

I Do Not Belong

Finally Free

Dead Serious

Rest

Crawl (Carry Me Through)

Believe

Walk On The Water

A More Beautiful You

See, it doesn't say outward beauty is bad! It says it isn't TRUE beauty. TRUE beauty comes from having the peace of God in your heart. Have you ever met someone like that? Maybe she wasn't the MOST beautiful girl, but you WANTED the peace she had?

The bridge of this song is so powerful to me. I honestly cry EVERY time I hear it. Read it again...

The most beautiful you is the YOU Christ created you to be - no make-up, no perfect body, no image - the you behind all that - whether you're 14 or 70. Christ in YOU.

Don’t buy the lies disguises and hoops they make you jump throughYou were made to fill a purpose that only you could do So there could never be a more beautiful you

Love you,

Beyond the song,

Don’t buy the lies disguises and hoops they make you jump through
You were made to fill a purpose that only you could do
So there could never be a more beautiful you