Weeks 20 and 21!

Still a long way to go my Friends! Some of us are behind, and that's ok. Let's catch back up! Love you all...take it easy!

Thursday, Nov. 11, 2010- 2 Kings 19, 20, 21
Friday, Nov. 12, 2010- 2 Kings 22, 23, John 4
Saturday, Nov. 13, 2010- 2 Kings 24, 25 and John 5
Sunday, Nov. 14, 2010- 1 Chronicles 1, 2, 3
Monday, Nov. 15, 2010- 1 Chronicles 4, 5, 6, 7
Tuesday, Nov. 16, 2010- 1 Chronicles 8, 9, 10
Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2010- 1 Chronicles 11, 12 and John 6
Thursday, Nov. 18, 2010- 1 Chronicles 13, 14, 15 and John 7
Friday, Nov. 19, 2010- 1 Chronicles 16, 17, 18
Saturday, Nov. 20, 2010- 1 Chronicles 19, 20, 21 and John 8
Sunday, Nov. 21, 2010- 1 Chronicles 22, 23, 24
Monday, Nov. 22, 2010- 1 Chronicles 25, 26, 27
Tuesday, Nov. 23, 2010- 1 Chronicles 28, 29 and John 9
Wednesday, Nov. 24, 2010- 2 Chronicles 1, 2, 3 and John 10

Week 18, and 19!

Guys, I thought I posted this weeks reading, but I didn't hit the save button, my bad! If you are all caught up and just kept reading, then good for you, and you can now follow. If you are getting caught up, it's all good! A friend the other day told me that it might be his "Year and a Half" plan because he was so far behind. That is perfectly fine...and to be honest, it took me to get to age 30 just to find interest in it and do it, so I think his plan is adequate. Be well Friends!

Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010- 1 Kings 8, 9
Friday, Oct. 29, 2010- 1 Kings 10, 11, and Luke 21
Saturday, Oct. 30, 2010- 1 Kings 12, 13
Sunday, Oct. 31, 2010- 1 Kings 14, 15 and Luke 22
Monday, Nov. 1, 2010- 1 Kings 16, 17, 18
Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2010- 1 Kings 19, 20, and Luke 23
Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2010- 1 Kings 21, 22
Thursday, Nov. 4, 2010- 2 Kings 1, 2, 3
Friday, Nov. 5, 2010- 2 Kings 4, 5, 6 and Luke 24
Saturday, Nov. 6, 2010- 2 Kings 7, 8, 9
Sunday, Nov. 7, 2010- 2 Kings 10, 11, 12 and John 1
Monday, Nov. 8, 2010- 2 Kings 13, 14 and John 2
Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2010- 2 Kings 15, 16 and John 3
Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2010- 2 Kings 17, 18

Enjoy Friends...catch up with you all in a little while!

Week 16 and 17!

Hey All...Hope you all are doing well! Here is the reading plan for the next two weeks!

Thursday, Oct. 14, 2010- 1 Samuel 30, 31 and Luke 13
Friday, Oct. 15, 2010- 2 Samuel 1, 2, and Luke 14
Saturday, Oct. 16, 2010- 2 Samuel 3, 4, 5
Sunday, Oct. 17, 2010- 2 Samuel 6, 7, 8
Monday, Oct. 18, 2010- 2 Samuel 9, 10, 11 and Luke 15
Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2010- 2 Samuel 12, 13, and Luke 16
Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2010- 2 Samuel 14, 15, and Luke 17
Thursday, Oct. 21, 2010- 2 Samuel 16, 17, 18
Friday, Oct. 22, 2010- 2 Samuel 19, 20, and Luke 18
Saturday, Oct. 23, 2010- 2 Samuel 21, 22
Sunday, Oct. 24, 2010- 2 Samuel 23, 24 and Luke 19
Monday, Oct. 25, 2010- 1 Kings 1, 2
Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2010- 1 Kings, 3, 4, 5 and Luke 20
Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2010- 1 Kings 6, 7

Week 15 Schedule!

Hello All! Hopefully you all are still reading along and learning about the glory of our Lord! Here is the reading schedule for this week!

Thursday, Oct. 7, 2010- 1 Samuel 13, 14
Friday, Oct. 8, 2010- 1 Samuel 15, 16, and Luke 10
Saturday, Oct. 9, 2010- 1 Samuel 17, 18 and Luke 11
Sunday, Oct. 10, 2010- 1 Samuel 19, 20, 21
Monday, Oct. 11, 2010- 1 Samuel 22, 23, 24
Tuesday, Oct. 12, 2010- 1 Samuel 25, 26, Luke 12
Wednesday, Oct. 13, 2010- 1 Samuel 27, 28, 29

Week 13 and 14 Reading Schedule!

Guys, I am extremely remorseful for slacking on getting the schedule out for those who are still reading. I have no excuse. I may be preventing you from continuing on in your journey with God by not putting this a priority, and for that, I am forever apologetic to you. Here is the reading schedule for this past week, and this coming week. Hope all is well and that you are keeping up.

Thursday, Sept. 23, 2010- Joshua 22, 23, 24 and Luke 3
Friday, Sept. 24, 2010- Judges 1, 2, 3 and Luke 4
Saturday, Sept. 25, 2010- Judges 4, 5, 6
Sunday, Sept. 26, 2010- Judges 7, 8 and Luke 5
Monday, Sept. 27, 2010- Judges 9, 10
Tuesday, Sept. 28, 2010- Judges 11, 12, and Luke 6
Wednesday, Sept. 29, 2010- Judges 13, 14, 15
Thursday, Sept. 30, 2010- Judges 16, 17, 18 and Luke 7
Friday, Oct. 1, 2010- Judges 19, 20, 21
Saturday, Oct. 2, 2010- Ruth 1, 2, 3, 4
Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010- 1 Samuel 1, 2, 3, Luke 8
Monday, Oct. 4, 2010- 1 Samuel 4, 5, 6, 7
Tuesday, Oct. 5, 2010- 1 Samuel 8, 9, 10
Wednesday, Oct. 6, 2010- 1 Samuel 11, 12 Luke 9

Week 12 Friends!!!

Hey All! Hopefully you all are keeping up! I fell shortly behind but am back up to speed! It's a little time for the new Josha era..should be interesting after reading all about Moses' life. His leadership was awesome...too bad his people kept him from seeing the land that the Lord gave the descendants to! Hope all is well!

Thursday, September 16, 2010- Joshua 1, 2, 3 and Mark 16
Friday, September 17, 2010- Joshua 4, 5, 6, 7
Saturday, September, 18, 2010- Joshua 8, 9, 10
Sunday, September 19, 2010- Joshua 11, 12, 13
Monday, September 20, 2010- Joshua 14, 15 and Luke 1
Tuesday, September 21, 2010- Joshua 16, 17, 18
Wednesday, September 22, 2010- Joshua 19, 20, 21 and Luke 2

Week 11 Reading!

Guys..soooo sorry that I haven't posted the new reading schedule. I was out of town with no computer access...but no excuse, it should have been up ahead of time. I hope that you all are well and keeping up with it.

Thursday, September 9, 2010- Deuteronomy 16, 17, 18 and Mark 13
Friday, September 10, 2010- Deuteronomy 19, 20, 21
Saturday, September 11, 2010- Deuteronomy 22, 23, 24
Sunday, September 12, 2010- 25, 26, 27 and Mark 14
Monday, September 13, 2010- Deuteronomy 28, 29
Tuesday, September 14, 2010- Deuteronomy 30, 31 and Mark 15
Wednesday, September 15, 2010- Deuteronomy 32, 33, 34

Week 10!

Hey, a little late, but here it is! Am I the only person reading??? Just wondering. If so, pray that I stay up on it!!! I'm praying that you all are going strong, not just with the reading, but in your lives as a whole! Be well Friends!

September 2, 2010- Numbers 32, 33, 34
September 3, 2010- Numbers 35, 36 and Mark 10
September 4, 2010- Deuteronomy 1, 2, 3
September 5, 2010- Deuteronomy 4, 5, 6 and Mark 11
September 6, 2010- Deuteronomy 7, 8, 9
September 7, 2010- Deuteronomy 10, 11, 12 and Mark 12
September 8, 2010- Deuteronomy 13, 14, 15

Be tranquil Friends......

Week Nine!!!! How are you all doing so far?

Hey Friends, here is the reading list for week 9. How are you doing? Feeling like rebelling against God anytime soon, as the people of Isreal have? Lets talk about it!

Thursday, August 26, 2010- Numbers 12, 13, 14 and Mark 5
Friday, August 27, 2010- Numbers 15, 16, and Mark 6
Saturday, August 28, 2010- Numbers 17, 18, 19
Sunday, August 29, 2010- Numbers 20, 21, 22
Monday, August 30, 2010- Numbers 23, 24, 25 and Mark 7
Tuesday, August 31, 2010- Numbers 26, 27, 28 and Mark 8
Wednesday, September 1, 2010- Numbers 29, 30, 31 and Mark 9

Looks like we have a lot of reading this week. Try not to fall behind. If you do, designate a quiet time between you and the Lord so that you are not missing out on his blessings. Love you all...be well Friends.

Week 8...Holla!!!!

Here is the reading schedule for the 8th week! I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm sooooo ready to be out of Leviticus!!!! None the less, the Lord's word has meaning...all of it!

Thursday, August 19, 2010- Leviticus 25 and Mark 1
Friday, August 20, 2010- Leviticus 26, 27 and Mark 2
Saturday, August 21, 2010- Numbers 1, 2 and Mark 3
Sunday, August 22, 2010- Numbers 3, 4
Monday, August 23, 2010- Numbers 5, 6 and Mark 4
Tuesday, August 24, 2010- Numbers 7, 8
Wednesday, August 25, 2010- Numbers 9, 10, 11

Hope you all are doing well and allowing the Lord to bless you through his literature.

Week 7 is upon us!!!

How are you guys feeling so far? As we enter week 7, hopefully you all have found a consistent time everyday in which you can find a quiet place to study God's word and allow the knowledge to sink in while emboding the image of Christ. Here is the Week7 reading schedule!

Thursday, August 12, 2010- Leviticus 13 and Matthew 26 (day 43)
Friday, August 13, 2010- Leviticus 14 (day 44)
Saturday, August 14, 2010- Leviticus 15, 16 (day 45)
Sunday, August 15, 2010- Leviticus 17, 18, and Matthew 27 (day 46)
Monday, August 16, 2010- Leviticus 19, 20 (day 47)
Tuesday, August 17, 2010- Leviticus 21, 22 and Matthew 28 (day 48)
Wednesday, August 18, 2010- Leviticus 23, 24 (day 49)

316 days to go my Friends!!! Stay strong, and remember, the Lord's Will will not take you where His Grace cannot save you!

Will the real Jesus please stand up!

A friend of mine sent me this video. I thought I would share.
It is the real deal!!

Finished with Exodus...my thoughts.

Hmmm, I don't think that Exodus was boring. To me it was more of a short story that needed to be read in its entirety before I could reflect on it (unlike some of the other books that we will read). In my opinion, Exodus contained a lot of material about the nature of God. The appearance of God in miracles was shown and I got to reflect on why were the miracles done and what were the Israelites supposed to learn from them. Yes, I did see the connection between some of the same ol problems that we have today and what was going on back then. SIDE NOTE: all of this is making me really want to learn more about the history of the wars in that area. If anyone knows a history buff let me know.

Let's see, the book of Exodus starts some 350 years after Jacob's family right? Anyhow, hundreds of thousands of Jacob's descendants are working as slaves for the Pharaoh. NOT what God had intended for them ya feel me. The Israelites had endured almost 4 centuries of oppression-almost twice as long as the history of America as a nation-before liberation. So far as we know (documented in the bible), during those years they received no direct communication from heaven. Moses had a HUGE challenge on his hands. He had to earn the trust of the slaves. That in and of itself presented a huge challenge. Then there was the doubt that Moses had about himself and his ability to be a leader for the Israelites. He resisted God, citing his unworthiness and lack of authority, his fear of the peoples mistrust, his speech difficulties and his flat out cowardice. Like Moses, do you ever wonder if your shortcomings disqualify you for what God wants you to do? I know I have. But we must all realize that if God picked you, apparently you are the right candidate, faults and all. Yeah, this is something that I am learning right now. Anyhow, Moses and his brother got the job done!

Oh, and I won't even get started on what happened in chapter 32. Did it remind you of Genesis 3? Think about it, in both instances, people favored by God strike out against his clear command. WHAT WERE THEY THINKING?!? Then they try to rationalize the fact that they had just disobeyed God! Oh wait, I do that.

The last 20 chapters or so consisted of laws and regulations. There were moral rules, such as the 10 commandments; civil and criminal rules, much like a criminal code; and religious and ceremonial rules. There are many memorable verses in this book. Of course the 10 commandments is what everyone remembers but I must say my favorite, hands down is Exodus, 14:13-14. It reads as follows (NIV):
Moses answered the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still."

Until next time, happy reading.
Now, on to Leviticus, the "law" book.

Week 6 is here!!!!!

Hey Friends. Not many have been blogging lately, so I am hoping that you all are well and keeping up with the reading. Exodus is a little boring, but we do see some great signs of Leadership and some of the same ole problems that we have today, originated back then. Enjoy the reading as we venture into Leviticus!!!!

Thursday, August 5, 2010- Exodus 36, 37, 38
Friday, August 6, 2010- Exodus 38, 40 and Matthew 23
Saturday, August 7, 2010- Leviticus 1, 2, 3
Sunday, August 8, 2010- Leviticus 4, 5, and Matthew 24
Monday, August 9, 2010- Leviticus 6, 7, and Matthew 25
Tuesday, August 10, 2010- Leviticus 8, 9, 10
Wednesday, August 11, 2010- Leviticus 11, 12

Only 46 weeks left...stay strong Friends!!!! Remember to invite others to the party...it's never too late!

Reading Schedule Week 5

Soooo sorry Friends!!! I got a little ahead of myself and totally forgot to post the new reading schedule. My sincerest apologies!!!! Here it is for this week (including Thursdays)

Thursday, July 29, 2010- Exodus 21, 22, and Matthew 19
Friday, July 30, 2010- Exodus 23, 24, and Matthew 20
Saturday, August 1, 2010- Exodus 25, 26
Sunday, August 2, 2010- Exodus 27, 28 and Matthew 21
Monday, August 3, 2010- Exodus 29, 30
Tuesday, August 4, 2010- Exodus 31, 32, 33
Wednesday, August 5, 2010- Exodus 34, 35 and Matthew 22


47 weeks left Friends!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Stay strong!!!!

Week Four Reading Schedule!

Hey Guys. I thought I posted the reading schedule for last night, but my computer froze just as I hit send button and I guess it didn't go through. So, here it is yet again! I hope that you all are doing well!

Thursday, July 22, 2010- Exodus 4, 5, 6

Friday, July 23, 2010- Exodus 7, 8 and Matthew 15

Saturday, July 24, 2010- Exodus 9, 10, 11

Sunday, July 25, 2010- Exodus 12, 13, and Matthew 16

Monday, July 26, 2010- Exodus 14, 15 and Matthew 17

Tuesday, July 27, 2010- Exodus 16, 17, 18

Wednesday, July 28, 2010- Exodus 19, 20 and Matthew 18

Stay strong guys! We have 48 weeks left...or 336 days. Catch up with you all later.

What you meant for evil GOD intended for GOOD.

Praise God!!!

I don’t know about you but I have been really enjoying the readings, so much so that I went on ahead and finished Genesis. What is interesting is I remember having to read this book of the bible when I was in high school and let me tell you, I soooooooooooo did not “get it” back then. I didn’t understand what was really going on between Joseph and his brothers but life experience will definitely shed new light.

God mostly works behind the scenes in Joseph’s life. In fact, on the surface it often seems that Joseph gets the exact opposite of what he deserves. He explains a dream to his brothers and they throw him into a cistern. He was sold into slavery, and all of those years had not erased his hurt and anger. Yet, he loved his brothers and wanted to be reconciled. He resists a sexual advance and he lands in prison. He interprets a dream and saves a life and the person forgets him. Even through all of this Joseph never stops trusting in God. Now, while God MAYNOT prevent all hardships, God can REDEEM anything, even the worst hardships. This is illustrated in 42:41 - 56. After all that Joseph had gone through, when he is finally set free, the Pharaoh put Joseph in charge of the whole land of Egypt. He was his second in command. Now when the famine comes and he is reunited with his brothers, they are afraid of him. They all feel that Joseph will seek revenge. Fortunately for them, Joseph has no interest in revenge, for he sees his difficult years as part of God’s big picture (hmmm...why can't we all be like this?). Joseph admits to his brothers, “It was not you who sent me here, but God…” (45:8), “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done….” (50:20).

Joseph’s summation of his experience might apply to many human situations. Joseph’s trust that God can bring good out of bad intentions enabled him finally to forgive his brothers, leaving judgment to God. Wait, let me say that one more time, LEAVING JUDGEMENT TO GOD!!!!!
Do you practice the statements/actions of Joseph? When God sends you a message, whether in a dream, literally or figuratively do you listen or do you question with why am I being punished? Uhm, I hate to be the one to say it but baby, it is NOT ABOUT YOU. I know that until recently I did the same thing, but now I HONESTLY realize that I was following my plan and not GOD’S plan. I realized that sometimes it is not about me it is about GOD. How many times have you been between a rock and a hard place and you didn’t know why or how you were going to get out and behold the Father lifted you up?

Have you struggled with the logic of forgiveness? Remember, God is the final judge of man not you.

Reading Plan for Week 3!

Thursday, July 15, 2010- Genesis 36, 37 and 38
Friday, July 16, 2010- Genesis 39, 40 and Matthew 11
Saturday, July 17, 2010- Genesis 41, 42 and Matthew 12
Sunday, July 18, 2010- Genesis 43, 44, 45
Monday, July 19, 2010- Genesis 46, 47, 48
Tuesday, July 20, 2010- Genesis 49, 50, and Matthew 13
Wednesday, July 21, 2010- Exodus 1, 2, 3, and Matthew 14

Stay strong Friends....and try not to fall too far behind. Let's keep each other up!!! 49 weeks left!

The First Week Of Readings - Genesis

First, let me give a round of applause to James for including me. Many, many times I have tried to do read the entire bible and I have failed. It seemed too exhausting of a task and I didn't have anyone to encourage me or help me when I was confused about the readings. I am still trying to find a convenient/consistent time. Hopefully, I will have one before I start back working in August.

Now, I must say that I am so glad that we have paired reading the old testament with the new. It offers a very good contrast. I like it. Also, even though Acts is my favorite book of the bible (spread of Christianity who wouldn't love it), Matthew and Genesis are a close second.

GENESIS
The message in this book is very complex, but in my opinion it is a book about relationships - God and nature; God and man and man and man. It shows that the one true God is sovereign over all that exists, whether good or evil. We were also introduced to the way in which God initiates and enters into covenants (which I now TOTALLY understand) with his chosen people and how he pledges his love and faithfulness to them. Genesis also tells the story of many beginnings - the beginning of the universe; the beginning of sin; and the MOST important, the beginning of God's work to restore a sinful humanity.

There are many notable scriptures from last week, some of them have already been mentioned in the blog so I won't rehash those. One of the chapters that left an imprint on me was chapter 8. This chapter was after the flood when God made a solemn promise - chapter 8:20 - 22 The Rainbow. The terms of the covenant reveal how deeply Adam's fall has affected creation. God's covenant recognizes certain sad adjustments to the original design of the world, taking for granted that humans will continue to kill (animals and each other). But here is the real love....God promises that regardless of what might happen, never again will he destroy life on such a massive scale. God vows to find another way to deal with the rebellion and violence of humanity (8:21). Isn't that amazing? Now, as humans we are prone to judging others even though we are sinners ourselves. And heaven forbid we feel as though someone has done us wrong or were "evil" towards us. I mean we all know as soon as we were born and took our first breath we were destined to a life of sin. Do we forgive? I know I am guilty of holding a grudge or being rude to someone who I have felt has done me wrong. God doesn't do that so who do we think we are to act in this manner. FOOD FOR THOUGHT: How do you react to those in your life who make mistakes and treat you wrongly?

The next noteworthy chapters are 18-19 "The Three Visitors and Sodom and Gomorrah Destroyed". Previously we have seen that God has made a plan to restore humanity (chapter 15), however, sometimes we must deviate from the plan and/or make revisions. Since God has made a covenant to not destroy all of humanity again he has agreed to spare the city of Sodom if Abraham can locate a mere 10 righteous people there. When Abraham cannot find 10, God's patience runs out. His tolerance for evil does have a limit. He steps in with a direct punishment - not to destroy the entire world, but to wipe out the 2 centers of evil. Now, years before Abraham had refused to accept a reward from the government of Sodom because he wanted nothing to do with such a place (chapter 14 . Yay Abraham. I wish I was that insightful). But his nephew Lot chose the path of prosperity and the easy and successful life. He was so entangled with life in Sodom that he hesitates to leave even up until the last moments!!! He is the classic example of a man, excessively tangled in a corrupt system, cannot bear to leave it behind (reminds me of myself). Too many times I have had to recite the poem "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost to myself. I have often tried to take the easy way out or force a situation to my liking only to have everything end up a mess. Why do we constantly go against God's plan. Why can't we just be still and let him work through us instead of trying to do everything. Evil is evil. It is not hard to recognize but we still end up gravitating towards it. Why? FOOD FOR THOUGHT: When have you taken what appeared to be easy road. The road you know was not pleasing to God only to have it blow up in your face?

Significance of the number 40

Quick Thought
 I was doing some internet research on the significance of the number 40.  We will find many references to the number 40 at different points in the bilble.  But the explanation below is evident in our scripture lessons from last week.  If 40 represents a period of testing, trial, probation or chastisement.  We see all of those taking place.  God was testing Noah's faith, God was upset with His people and gave chastisement by the way of the flood. 


The following information came from the Beloved Heart Musings and Journal:

The number 40 holds particular significance in the Bible and refers to a precise number, not just a long period of time. There are at least ten instances in the Old Testament and New Testament where 40 occurs, either in years or days, e.g. it rained for 40 days and 40 nights, Moses was on the mountain 40 days and 40 nights, the Israelites wandered 40 years, Jesus fasted in the wilderness for 40 days and was seen on the earth for 40 days after His crucifixion.
A 40-something time period, whether days, months, or years is ALWAYS a period of testing, trial, probation, or chastisement (but not judgment) and ends with a period of restoration, revival or renewal.
Thankfully, God is consistent, so the meaning of a number in Genesis remains the same all the way to the book of Revelation. Sometimes the spiritual significance is not revealed directly, but in the case of “40″ and its many examples throughout the Bible, we can be certain of its importance and significance.

Reading Plan for Week 2

Thursday, July 8, 2010- Genesis 20, 21, 22
Friday, July 9, 2010- Genesis 23, 24 and Matthew 7
Saturday, July 10, 2010- Genesis 25, 26
Sunday, July 11, 2010- Genesis 27, 28 and Matthew 8
Monday, July 12, 2010- Genesis 29, 30 and Matthew 9
Tuesday, July 13, 2010- Genesis 31, 32
Wednesday, July 14, 2010- Genesis 33, 43, 35 and Matthew 10

We are two weeks end and going strong!!! Keep it up Friends...50 more weeks to go!!!

Matthew 5:27-30

ADULTERY..most likely my biggest struggle.

So, some struggles with why people don't believe in the Bible is because they don't know what stories to take literally and figuratively. This one...tough to take literally, but when you place it against God's Love and the struggle he went through for us, it seems like it should be a walk in a park. Lets. see.

Verse 27-30 "You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be throwin into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and through it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell."
HMMMMM....I don't think I should have any body parts left after reading this. My biggest struggle (especially while I'm at my fitness gym) is lustfully looking at women. It's been on my mind a lot lately, and I am making a very intentional effort to not do so, but it's tough. I mean, real tough! It's to the point where I just might either have Malachi and chill at the park, and sleep when I don't have him...because I know that at some point throughout the day, whether it be via tv, going to the gym, or reading a magazine, some smokin' hot lady with only a sports bra and tight pants advertising some product (that of course will persuade you that their product will give you this body when indeed we all know better but still purchase the product...but that's neither here nor there) will appear in my sight and there it is...my eyes are causing me to sin, Big Time! What do I do in this situation? It's like trying to heal a sprained ankle while playing on it. But when i think about the Love of my Lord....My God.....take my eyes, limbs, and anything else that causing me to be away from you for it's not I that sin, but it's the sin that lives in me...(Rom. 7:15-22..my favorite passage by the way). I guess it's time to stop making excuses and man up. And girls, don't front! I know when y'all see some of these male athletes in the locker room with their shirts off, or Tyrese doing a Ralph Lauren ad..or Me doing just about anything, y'all go crazy, so step your game up too or get to gouging!

Genesis 14:22-24

"But Abram said to the king of Sodom, "I have raised my hand to the Lord, God most HIgh, Creator of Heaven and Earth, and have taken an oath that I will accept nothing belonging to you, not even a thread or the thong of a sandal, so that you will never be able to say, 'I made Abram rich.' I will accept nothing but what my men have eaten and the share that belongs to the men who went with me..."

So, after I read this, I thought to myself, "How many devils have I allowed to give me something that has lead me away from receiving a blessing from my Lord???" When I say "things", I mean more than something that can rust or be manipulated. Think of compliments or put downs that we've allowed to shape who we are, or even physical or emotional pleasures/discomforts that took our focus away from God's love. When I think of the depth of my sin, it's DEEP...almost beyond measure. But then I think of the depth of God's love, and it's deeper than all of human sins put together! WOW! One thing that's helped me out throughout my stressfull year is that "God's will can't take you where God's grace cannot protect you." Just thinking about that makes me want to stop typing and kneel down just to give thanks for the things that haven't happened to me...the things that I don't know that God kept me from (i.e. car accidents, injuries/illnesses, etc.) and that's all because of his Grace. Thanks my Lord for being you....

Genesis 16:1-4

So this reading pertains to Abram and Sarai's maidservant, Hagar, convceiving a child, later known as Ishmael (which means "God Hears"). I thought about this because outside of Adam and Eve, I wondered was this decision the first recorded decision that was not based on God's opinion? It stats that Sarai recommended this idea to Abram, and he agreed, but it doesn't state that they consulted God about it. Another thing that makes me think about this is that we begins to see human nature come out of Sarai...which makes me think this decision was not based on God's will, though he later blesses Hagar and Ishmael. It states in verse 4 that "When she (Sarai) knew she (Hagar) was pregnant, she began to despise her mistress.", which is a nature human instinct...to be jealous or covet or in urban terms, a "hater". I think about Malachi and how he was born out of wedlock, and as soon as I read later that God was going to bless Ishmael because Abraham (formerly known as Abram) asked the Lord to do so (Gen. 17:18). And the Lord of course replied with "I have heard you (which i think is funny because Ishmael means "God hears"):I will surely bless him; I will make him fruitful and will greatly increase his numbers." (Gen. 17:20). My immediate prayer is that I can be a great leader for him, a great father, and a great teacher, and that all of those would come second to God blessing him in ways that I couldn't even imagine. Just some random thoughts....

New Design for Blog

So the other design was a little difficult to read.  Is this better?  Let me know what you think.

Deidre's Reflections on Day 1 & 2

Hello Friends!!

First let me say a huge thanks to James for keeping me honest.  Without his facebook posts/text messages, I'm not sure that I would have stayed true to getting started this week.  Yes, I was lacking motivation.  So, I did day 1 and 2 today and was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed being in the word.

One of the first things I noticed is how the reading plan was structured for these first two days.  I'm not sure if this was intentional or coincidental but it made me think so I thought I would share it.  The old testament readings took us through the creation story and also the fall of man.  The New Testament scripture spoke of the birth of Jesus Christ.  The beginning and the end.  To me, it was poignant to read about the fall of man and the redemption of man in the first two days.  Especially on the weekend that many Americans celebrate the independence of America.  Questions...are we really free?  And though we appreciate the sacrifice of our military, etc....do you believe that total freedom came through Jesus Christ?   As an African-American, I can say that I realize that my freedom in today's society has nothing to do with July 4th....but I believe that God ordained people like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks to be the "soldiers" for our worldly freedom.  But I believe in my heart that I was spiritually freed on the day I was saved.  And praise God this is the kind of freedom that can't be taken away.

That freedom as allows me to make choices.  Much like Adam and Eve made in the Garden of Eden.  Choices to obey or not obey.  Choices to be influenced by outside sources.  Choices to commune with others instead of God.   I know that many of times we joke about Adam and Eve and how they "messed it up for the rest of us".  How many times do we use the freedom that we have through Christ to make decisions that "mess it up for ourselves".  By God's grace...he makes a way for us despite ourselves.

Obedience...Noah's obedience to God despite what others thought was an awesome testament to what we need to do today. First, God found Noah worthy.  Wow!!!  Of all the people he picked Noah.  And Noah was obedient.  We also see a great example of obedience in Joseph and Mary.  Are we listening for the instructions and are we ready to answer the call even when it isn't popular or what other people (friends) would do.

One other interesting thought I had while reading Genesis 1 is the fact that after each act of creation on each day it says...and there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day.  When we think of a new day, we think of morning.  Clearly, God thought of the a day from sunset to sunset.  Which is where the Jewish observance of Shabbat (Sabbath) comes from.  Jewish people observe the Sabbath from sunset on Fridays to sunset on Saturdays. 

 So many thoughts and not enough time but I can't wait to share more...hear more...spend more time with Him.

Keep me in prayer as I continue on this journey.  The spirit is willing but sometimes the flesh is weak.  And TV sometimes seems like a better option. 

The theory of seven

I know that this is not a new topic but does anyone know what they meaning of the number seven is in the bible? I know, I know....we learned that is bible class way back in the day but I forgot. Is it unity or spiritual perfection or what? There are also multiples of sevens mentioned as well. Does that mean the same thing? Then there is the number 17 mentioned, is that the same as well? I am just trying to get the most out of the readings and I have noticed that for the first 2 days of readings that 7, 14, 17, 7 times 7 etc. is repeated. Then, later in the readings we will encounter 56 which is 7x8, 287 which is 7 x 41, seven-fold, you get what I mean.

Maybe the meaning is deeper and we must consider each one seperate. What do you all think. Please help.

Genesis 4:7 and Matthew 2:13

Gen. 4:7- "...sin is crouching at your doorstep, it desires to have you, but you must master it." I reread this a few times, and the word that stands out for me is "must" because I often allow myself to rationalize my sins. The Lord commands that we "MUST" master sin, not become comfortable with it, and I my Friends, have at times been at a point where I felt that it was ok to sometimes...sin. The wager of sin is death, and some how, there hasn't been a day that has gone by and I did not see the light of that day, so I have My Lord to give all thanks to for forgiving me for my foolishness.

Matt. 2:13- "..for Herrod will seek the young child (Jesus) to destroy him." So this message came in the form of a dream from God to Joseph...he was commanded to take his wife and "the child" to Egypt because Kind Herrod was on his way to get his murder on. I wonder the "what if" side of this story. We know what was supposed to happen, and that happened. But as we make a correlation to our lives, do we always cultivate the "what is supposed to happen" all the time? Do we listen to God's messages and always do as he asks? If not (which I would assume we would all agree on), then what important events that are supposed to be in our lives are we missing? Or can it be that we're just making things harder on ourselves by not obeying the word of God? It's great to remember that God is not as shady as I am, because you all would be missing out on a ton of stuff...heck, you'd probably be dead, but by the grace and glory of God do we still get to hug our children/family, go to work (well, some of us), wake up in a bed, eat breakfast, cleanse ourselves, watch tv, and many many luxuries that we discount as normal everyday living.

July 1-7, 2010 Reading Plan

Day 1. Genesis 1, 2, 3 & Mathew 1
Day 2. Genesis 4, 5, 6 & Matthew 2
Day 3. Genesis 7, 8. 9 & Matthew 3
Day 4. Genesis 10, 11, 12 & Matthew 4
Day 5. Genesis 13, 14, 15
Day 6. Genesis 16, 17, & Matthew 5
Day 7. Genesis 18, 19 & Matthew 6

Introduction

Hey Friends~
Everyday will be an adventure through God's word as we discover more about the depth of His love for us. I will post the daily readings on a weekly basis so that you can either get ahead of the game or catch up. The reading schedule is based on completing both Old and New Testament simultaneously. It's strenuous so stay prayed up!!! My advice is to designate a time during the day in which you can effectively engage in God's word, and stick to that time! Feel free to post anything, from a passage that stood out to a question that you may have, or even an inspiring message or quote for the day. We can do this Friends...let's hold each other up so one day when our spirits are in Heaven praising God, we can look back and embrace the journey that has taken place! Remember, the Church is in you...it's up to you to bring it out!