Prodigal Daughter

I was dubbed "the late bloomer" although the oldest of five. I was walking under tables until about the ripe ol’ age of five and then miraculous I sprouted and went through the gangley pangs of being taller than most boys my age right up until high school. In high school I was considered “a quiet one” but somehow managed to be voted “class favorite” my senior year. I did not date, if fact, I only officially went on one date with a brainy kid destined to top of our class. Now don’t get me wrong, I attended the traditional school events, homecoming, the prom and all that sort of fanfare. In fact, between public school and our church youth group I had a full schedule that kept me out of trouble.

I attended community college until I got the itch to explore the world on my terms. I didn’t want the regiment of school and work, well once I started working, I wanted more and more of the adult life. So, I ventured further and further into the world, and farther and farther away from family and the church.

God is faithful.

…God is faithful, who will not let you be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. ~ 1 Corinthians 10:13b NKJV

God is patient.

But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and merciful God. You are patient, always faithful and ready to forgive. ~ Psalm 86:15 God’s Word Translation

God is compassionate.

Gracious is the LORD, and righteous; Yes, our God is compassionate. ~ Psalm 116:5 NASB

God is forgiving.

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. ~ Ephesians 4:32 NIV

And like the prodigal son, He welcomed His prodigal daughter, yeah me, back into the fold. I am grateful to be a child of the King! ~ Kim

The She Speaks Conference will be held July 22-24, 2011 in Concord, North Carolina. Ann Voskamp, one of the keynote speakers is offering a scholarship opportunity. Sister-bloggers, submit your entry today.

"Stand Firm!"

The Divi-divi tree is the national tree of Curacao. On the island, this tree is never straight because of the trade winds, a wind blowing almost continually from east to west toward the equator. Although bent, it remains firmly rooted and its pods are used to extract tannins for leather production. This tree, if left to grow in another environment, would reach an approximate height of nine feet and would be dome-like in shape.

As Christians, we are like the Divi-divi tree continually assuaged by the trade winds (known as “an east wind”) of the world. What trade wind is blowing you around and how are you taking cover from the wind? There are several references to “an east wind” in the Bible; an east wind has been know to cause a tree to shrivel and be stripped of its fruit (Ezekiel 19:12). And while this wind may cause us to bend, we are able to remain rooted in the sound teachings of God’s Living Word because of our faith and love in Jesus Christ that guards the Spirit which dwells within each one of us. (2 Timothy 1:14) When we take refuge (cover) in God and His Living Word we will be like the tree planted by the water with no fear of heat or drought and we will produce fruit! (Jeremiah 17:8) When an east wind starts to blow in your life remember Jesus has the power to rebuke the wind ~ “Peace! Be still.” (Mark 4:39).

What is extracted from the Christian planted in God and His Living Word? Our product, our outpouring is: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness and self control. (Galatians 5:22-23) Like the Divi-divi tree, we are planted in various environments and we vary in height, appearance and gifts by the grace given to us. (Romans 12:6) Stand firm! (James 5:8)

I encourage you, fellow Christians, “Hold on to your hats and grab your Bibles, it’s going to be an adventurous ride!” ~ Kim

SHINE!

Spring is officially just around the corner! I’m fortunate to be able to view the wild buttercups blooming in the lawn. God’s beauty surrounds us and appears in some of the most unassuming places. He always shines! His radiance seeps into every crack and crevice.

Some people have the ability to light up a room with their presence. Are you one of those people? If not, why not?

You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. –Matthew 5:13-16 TNIV

Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. --Philippians 2:14-16a TNIV

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. --1 Peter 2:9 TNIV

In reading these passages from God’s Living Word, I am convinced that each one of us holds a light within us. Now, go along with your day and SHINE! ~ Kim

Is Your Body "Present-Worthy"?

To "sacrifice" means to surrender something for the sake of something. A "living sacrifice" means to surrender yourself for the sake of someone else. What are you doing today to present your body as a living sacrifice, that which is set apart and pleasing to God? Is your body "present-worthy"?

When I directed this question to myself, I thought about my gifts the Lord has given me to utilize to His service. If you can't pinpoint your gift, think about the last time someone commented on something you did well. Your gift generally lies within the qualities of things others compliment you on.

Still searching for your gift? Scripture (Hebrews 13:15) tells us to "continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise--the fruit of the lips that openly profess his name." That's right, open your mouth and praise the Creator!

Praise the LORD, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
Praise the LORD, my soul, and forget no all his benefits--
who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion,
who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
~ Psalm 103:1-5 TNIV

When we take time to say "Thank You Father" we are reminded of the blessings we do have.

Peace be with you! ~ Kim