PASSAGE: Rules for Holy Living, Rules for Christian Households
MEMORY VERSE: "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" Colossians 4:5
NOTES: Today, I had one of the worst Starbucks drinks I've had in a while.
I stopped by Albertsons tonight with my mom to pick up some miscellaneous stuff, and decided to get a Vanilla Bean Frappaccino at the Starbucks inside the Alberstons. I've been there a few times before, and each time it's always the same person making my coffee, and EVERY time I have left unsatisfied. I won't go into fine detail about what she's done, but let's just say that the barista's attitude reflected the poor quality of the drink. Today, however, seemed especially bad: it was a chunky, icy concoction of what seemed to be ice and sugar, topped with some whipped cream. I started to get a bit frustrated at the barista, when I think God used this experience to gently rebuke me...
To be honest, in the past week or two, I have been especially lazy in my studies. Perhaps its the onset of Senioritis, the humid, lazy weather, or simply because of the fact that my classes aren't all that hard. Whatever the reason, I've let my grades slip a bit, and I admittedly have not been the best at being a student that glorifies God. But recently, God's been reminding me of Colossians 3:23 "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men" repeatedly. Upon leaving the Starbucks tonight, I realized that not giving 100% to God in even small things like homework assignments is like dealing with a lazy and snippy barista who makes lackluster frappaccinos. Now, I've had some pretty amazing Starbucks drinks in my lifetime, so I know that it's up to the barista to make a drink that lives up to Starbucks' reputation. Though this is just a miniature representation of how we disappoint God, it was a significant reminder for me that God has made me a student for the intent of His glory. And, based on how I've been for the past week, it's evident to me that I've been living for myself. The purpose of my schoolwork was not to glorify God, but to "scrape by" with my own laziness and selfishness. That is why I wanted to study Colossians 3 again tonight for my QT.
Now for some cool verses!
-(v.1) "Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."
(v.8) "But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips."
(v.12)"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."
(v.17) "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
(v.20) "Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I had to stay afterschool to sort through 300 CSF applications that needed to be alphabetized, separated, typed, and collected. Our advisor gave us the option of leaving early, but I decided to stay until everything was squared away & finished.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
2 Thessalonians 3, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #158: ENCOURAGE
PASSAGE: Request for Prayer, Warning Against Idleness, Final Greetings
MEMORY VERSE: "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" Colossians 4:5
NOTES: (v.1) "Finally, brothers, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honord, just as it was with you...But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one. We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance."
(v.11) "We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies. Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat. And as for you, brothers, never tire of doing what is right."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, my friend was feeling sick and probably has strep throat. To make her feel better, I sent her a random encouragement via facebook (even though I'm not super close with her).
MEMORY VERSE: "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" Colossians 4:5
NOTES: (v.1) "Finally, brothers, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honord, just as it was with you...But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one. We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance."
(v.11) "We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies. Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat. And as for you, brothers, never tire of doing what is right."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, my friend was feeling sick and probably has strep throat. To make her feel better, I sent her a random encouragement via facebook (even though I'm not super close with her).
Monday, September 27, 2010
2 thessalonians 2, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #157: MISC
PASSAGE: The Man of Lawlessness, Stand Firm
MEMORY VERSE: "Be wise in the way you act towards outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" Colossians 4:5
NOTES:(v.1) "Concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered to him, we ask you brothers, not to become easily unsettled or alarmed by some prophecy, report or letter supposed to have come from us, saying that the day of the Lord has already come."
(v.3) "Dont let anyone deceive you in any way, for that day will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness is revelaed, the man doomed to destruction. He will oppose and will exalt himself over everything that is called God or is worshiped, so that he sets himself up in God's temple, proclaiming himself to be God."
(v.14) "He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teahcings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I lent my friend a towel after we had gone swimming. It was SO HOT!
Also, I helped my mom with the laundry a bit by folding & putting away clothes.
MEMORY VERSE: "Be wise in the way you act towards outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" Colossians 4:5
NOTES:(v.1) "Concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered to him, we ask you brothers, not to become easily unsettled or alarmed by some prophecy, report or letter supposed to have come from us, saying that the day of the Lord has already come."
(v.3) "Dont let anyone deceive you in any way, for that day will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness is revelaed, the man doomed to destruction. He will oppose and will exalt himself over everything that is called God or is worshiped, so that he sets himself up in God's temple, proclaiming himself to be God."
(v.14) "He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teahcings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I lent my friend a towel after we had gone swimming. It was SO HOT!
Also, I helped my mom with the laundry a bit by folding & putting away clothes.
Hebrews 12, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #156: RIDE
PASSAGE: God Disciplines His Sons
MEMORY VERSE: "Be wise in the way you towards outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" Colossians 4:5
*Note: Today's post is longgg..
NOTES: I know I'm going super out of order, but I think God has been really teaching me Hebrews 12 lately, especially the verses
-"Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disiciplined us and we respected them for it. how much more should be we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and wea kness." (v.7-12)
This past week has been pretty rough for me. Mainly, we had auditions for the fall play this past week, and I had prayed about the auditions. I knew I did relatively well on my auditions based on the feedback I got, but for some reason, I didn't get a SINGLE callback (callbacks are characters that she wants you to read for so that you have a chance to play their character). If you don't get cast as a character, you are put in the chorus, which is, by far, the very "worst" role to play (ESPECIALLY if you're in the advanced drama class). Let me elaborate. By being in the chorus, you...
-Wear a mask the entire time so people cant even see your FACE
-Talk in unison as one entity so that you are completely unidentifiable
-Don't get to wear a toga =(
-Have very few lines and is a minor role in the play
I've heard some of my friends say that if they got the chorus, they wouldn't even want to be in the play (even though we're forced to). Being in the chorus was the ONE thing that I did not want, especially since there were alot of minor characters with smaller roles that I knew I could play. But lo and behold, I got cast as "Chorus Member #1" on saturday when the list was emailed out.
Initially, I was very frustrated. I didn't understand why I didn't even get the CHANCE to read for another character, when basically everyone else did. I didn't understand why I didn't get a callback when my audition seemed to go so well. I didn't understand why I didn't get cast as anything better, especially since I'm a senior, and I've been involved with the Drama department for 3 years. I didn't understand why other people, who were younger and less experienced, received larger roles than I did.
As I was talking to God about these frustrations, He brought something to mind: If I had gotten a lead or a big role, I know I would have put in 110% and worked super hard for my character. But God wanted to see if I would work for HIM in the same way by putting the same amount of effort forward, even if no one would ever see my face, or know that I was in the play despite all my efforts. Am I working for the Lord, or for men? (Colossians 3:23). God had made me realize the pride and selfish ambition that was in my heart going into these auditions, and He made sure that I learn my lesson the hard way. So today, I studied Hebrews 12 because I do think that God is using this to teach me a valuable lesson.
To be honest, I've been pretty blown away by this, and I think I can say that I'm even excited to be a chorus member now, and to GLORIFY HIM through my attitude & efforts. HALLELUJAH BABY :) I made the commitment to not complain about rehearsals or anything, and to be THANKFUL for my role as Chorus #1(so if you ever catch me complaining, go ahead and rebuke me.....with love&gentleness, though :). God has given me this role, so imma be the BEST CHORUS MEMBER #1 EVER. Im gunna make sure the Chorus puts the ZING in AMAZING. WOOHOO!
*Btw CONGRATS to my friend PATRICIA, who landed the role of Jocasta!
ACT OF LOVE: Offered to give my friend a ride to the Servant Team meeting in the morning :)
Also, met someone new--someone named Daniel, who is a 5th year at UCLA. It was his first time at BOL in quite a while!
MEMORY VERSE: "Be wise in the way you towards outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" Colossians 4:5
*Note: Today's post is longgg..
NOTES: I know I'm going super out of order, but I think God has been really teaching me Hebrews 12 lately, especially the verses
-"Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disiciplined us and we respected them for it. how much more should be we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and wea kness." (v.7-12)
This past week has been pretty rough for me. Mainly, we had auditions for the fall play this past week, and I had prayed about the auditions. I knew I did relatively well on my auditions based on the feedback I got, but for some reason, I didn't get a SINGLE callback (callbacks are characters that she wants you to read for so that you have a chance to play their character). If you don't get cast as a character, you are put in the chorus, which is, by far, the very "worst" role to play (ESPECIALLY if you're in the advanced drama class). Let me elaborate. By being in the chorus, you...
-Wear a mask the entire time so people cant even see your FACE
-Talk in unison as one entity so that you are completely unidentifiable
-Don't get to wear a toga =(
-Have very few lines and is a minor role in the play
I've heard some of my friends say that if they got the chorus, they wouldn't even want to be in the play (even though we're forced to). Being in the chorus was the ONE thing that I did not want, especially since there were alot of minor characters with smaller roles that I knew I could play. But lo and behold, I got cast as "Chorus Member #1" on saturday when the list was emailed out.
Initially, I was very frustrated. I didn't understand why I didn't even get the CHANCE to read for another character, when basically everyone else did. I didn't understand why I didn't get a callback when my audition seemed to go so well. I didn't understand why I didn't get cast as anything better, especially since I'm a senior, and I've been involved with the Drama department for 3 years. I didn't understand why other people, who were younger and less experienced, received larger roles than I did.
As I was talking to God about these frustrations, He brought something to mind: If I had gotten a lead or a big role, I know I would have put in 110% and worked super hard for my character. But God wanted to see if I would work for HIM in the same way by putting the same amount of effort forward, even if no one would ever see my face, or know that I was in the play despite all my efforts. Am I working for the Lord, or for men? (Colossians 3:23). God had made me realize the pride and selfish ambition that was in my heart going into these auditions, and He made sure that I learn my lesson the hard way. So today, I studied Hebrews 12 because I do think that God is using this to teach me a valuable lesson.
To be honest, I've been pretty blown away by this, and I think I can say that I'm even excited to be a chorus member now, and to GLORIFY HIM through my attitude & efforts. HALLELUJAH BABY :) I made the commitment to not complain about rehearsals or anything, and to be THANKFUL for my role as Chorus #1(so if you ever catch me complaining, go ahead and rebuke me.....with love&gentleness, though :). God has given me this role, so imma be the BEST CHORUS MEMBER #1 EVER. Im gunna make sure the Chorus puts the ZING in AMAZING. WOOHOO!
*Btw CONGRATS to my friend PATRICIA, who landed the role of Jocasta!
ACT OF LOVE: Offered to give my friend a ride to the Servant Team meeting in the morning :)
Also, met someone new--someone named Daniel, who is a 5th year at UCLA. It was his first time at BOL in quite a while!
Saturday, September 25, 2010
2 Thessalonians 1, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #155: LETTERS, VERSES, PRAYERS
5PASSAGE: Thanksgiving and Prayer
MEMORY VERSE: "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" Colossians 4:5
NOTES: (v.3) "We ought always to thank God for you, brothers, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love every one of you has for each other is increasing. Therefore, among God's churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring."
(v.6) "God is just: He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you and give relief to you who are troubled, and to us as well. This will happen when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven in blazing fire with his powerful angels."
(v.11) "With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may count you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by your faith. We pray this so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I took some time to write letters to three of my friends who just started college, & included some Bible verses to encourage them as they begin a new life stage!
Also, I helped my friend find a verse that he wanted to remember but couldn't figure out where it was (it was Matt 5:39, in case you're wondering).
Finally, I randomly texted two of my friends and asked them for prayer requests!
MEMORY VERSE: "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" Colossians 4:5
NOTES: (v.3) "We ought always to thank God for you, brothers, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love every one of you has for each other is increasing. Therefore, among God's churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring."
(v.6) "God is just: He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you and give relief to you who are troubled, and to us as well. This will happen when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven in blazing fire with his powerful angels."
(v.11) "With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may count you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by your faith. We pray this so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I took some time to write letters to three of my friends who just started college, & included some Bible verses to encourage them as they begin a new life stage!
Also, I helped my friend find a verse that he wanted to remember but couldn't figure out where it was (it was Matt 5:39, in case you're wondering).
Finally, I randomly texted two of my friends and asked them for prayer requests!
1 Thessalonians 4, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #154: 5 MONTH MARK!!
PASSAGE: Living to Please God, The Coming of the Lord
MEMORY VERSE: "Be wise in the way you act towards outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" Colossians 4:5
NOTES: (v.3) "It is God's will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control his own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the heathen, who do not know God; and that in this matter no one should wrong his brother or take advantage of him."
(v.7) "For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. Therefore, he who rejects this instruction does not reject man but God, who gives you his Holy Spirit."
(v.16) "For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever."
ACT OF LOVE: TODAY, September 24, 2010, marks the five-month mark of my 365 days of love challenge! Wow time flies when you're lovin'!
Anyways, today for my act(s) of love....
-Got an extra CSF application for my friend who wanted one but didn't get one at Club Rush (who also texted me in the wee hours of the morning asking me for one...LOL)
-Spent some of the time before friday service started to try to talk to one of my VBS kids who was sitting alone on the sofa. He mainly was preoccupied with his mother's phone, but we still talked a wee bit!
-Lowkey threw away my friend's food trash on the table as I was leaving
MEMORY VERSE: "Be wise in the way you act towards outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" Colossians 4:5
NOTES: (v.3) "It is God's will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control his own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the heathen, who do not know God; and that in this matter no one should wrong his brother or take advantage of him."
(v.7) "For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. Therefore, he who rejects this instruction does not reject man but God, who gives you his Holy Spirit."
(v.16) "For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever."
ACT OF LOVE: TODAY, September 24, 2010, marks the five-month mark of my 365 days of love challenge! Wow time flies when you're lovin'!
Anyways, today for my act(s) of love....
-Got an extra CSF application for my friend who wanted one but didn't get one at Club Rush (who also texted me in the wee hours of the morning asking me for one...LOL)
-Spent some of the time before friday service started to try to talk to one of my VBS kids who was sitting alone on the sofa. He mainly was preoccupied with his mother's phone, but we still talked a wee bit!
-Lowkey threw away my friend's food trash on the table as I was leaving
Thursday, September 23, 2010
1 Thessalonians 3, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #153: TRASH & PRAY
PASSAGE: Timothy's Encouraging Report
MEMORY VERSE: "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity." Colossians 4:5
NOTES: (v.4) "In fact, when we were with you, we kept telling you that we would be persecuted. Ant it turned out that way, as you well know."
(v.7) "Therefore, brothers, in all our distress and persecution we were encouraged about you because of your faith. For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord."
(v.12) "May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I threw away my friend's trash without being asked at lunch.
Also, spent some time praying for some of my friends who are beginning their first year of college (specifically, also, for my friend Matt, who blogged about some prayer requests earlier).
MEMORY VERSE: "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity." Colossians 4:5
NOTES: (v.4) "In fact, when we were with you, we kept telling you that we would be persecuted. Ant it turned out that way, as you well know."
(v.7) "Therefore, brothers, in all our distress and persecution we were encouraged about you because of your faith. For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord."
(v.12) "May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I threw away my friend's trash without being asked at lunch.
Also, spent some time praying for some of my friends who are beginning their first year of college (specifically, also, for my friend Matt, who blogged about some prayer requests earlier).
1 Thessalonians 2, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #152: STANDING IN LINE...
PASSAGE: Paul's Ministry in Thessalonica, Paul's Longing to See the Thessalonians
MEMORY VERSE: "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" Colossians 4:5
NOTES:(v.4) "On the contrary, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts...We were not looking for praise from men, not from you or anyone else."
(v.8) "We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us."
(v.13) "And we aslo thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, for Club Rush, my school was giving out 300 cups of FREE YOGURTLAND! Since I got to be there early to set up for CSF, I stood in line waiting for lunch to start (heh heh). My act of love was letting someone go in front of me to get her froyo first :) She smiled and thanked me enthusiastically lol.
I LOVE YOGURT. I LOVE FREE STUFF. I LOVE FREE YOGURT <3
MEMORY VERSE: "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" Colossians 4:5
NOTES:(v.4) "On the contrary, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts...We were not looking for praise from men, not from you or anyone else."
(v.8) "We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us."
(v.13) "And we aslo thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, for Club Rush, my school was giving out 300 cups of FREE YOGURTLAND! Since I got to be there early to set up for CSF, I stood in line waiting for lunch to start (heh heh). My act of love was letting someone go in front of me to get her froyo first :) She smiled and thanked me enthusiastically lol.
I LOVE YOGURT. I LOVE FREE STUFF. I LOVE FREE YOGURT <3
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
1 Thessalonians 1, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #151: LISTEN
PASSAGE: Thanksgiving for the Thessalonians' Faith
MEMORY VERSE: "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" Colossians 4:5
NOTES: (v.4) "For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake."
(v.6) "You became imitators of us and of the Lord; in spire of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit."
(v.8) "The Lord's message rang out from you not only Macedonia and Achaia--your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it, for they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead--Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath."
ACT OF LOVE: I simply offered a listening ear to a friend who needed to rant about an issue that he cares about. Sometimes, the best thing that we can do is just giving an understanding heart!
MEMORY VERSE: "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" Colossians 4:5
NOTES: (v.4) "For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake."
(v.6) "You became imitators of us and of the Lord; in spire of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit."
(v.8) "The Lord's message rang out from you not only Macedonia and Achaia--your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it, for they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead--Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath."
ACT OF LOVE: I simply offered a listening ear to a friend who needed to rant about an issue that he cares about. Sometimes, the best thing that we can do is just giving an understanding heart!
Monday, September 20, 2010
Colossians 4, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #150: LISTEN
PASSAGE: Further Instructions, Final Greetings
MEMORY VERSE: "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you will shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life--in order that on the day of Christ I may boast that I did not run or labor in vain" Philippians 2:14-16
NOTES: (v.2-6) "Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chians. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, sot hat you may know how to answer everyone."
This is a prayer request that I need; that I may be "watchful and thankful" and that "God may open a door for our message." Pray that I'll see every opportunity as precious and a chance to glorify God, so that I'll be wise in my actions and "make the most of every opportunity."
ACT OF LOVE: My mom came back from Detroit last night. She was at a few churches in Detroit and Ohio this weekend as the guest speaker for a weekend conference they had. I took some time today to ask her how it went and listen to some of the amazing experiences she's had over there. I (and Barnabas) had prayed for her this weekend, and it was super encouraging to hear God's answer to our prayers! What she shared was pretty amazing, and she definitely felt the support of prayer with her during her time at Detroit. She came back exhausted, but very excited! Praise God!
MEMORY VERSE: "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you will shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life--in order that on the day of Christ I may boast that I did not run or labor in vain" Philippians 2:14-16
NOTES: (v.2-6) "Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chians. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, sot hat you may know how to answer everyone."
This is a prayer request that I need; that I may be "watchful and thankful" and that "God may open a door for our message." Pray that I'll see every opportunity as precious and a chance to glorify God, so that I'll be wise in my actions and "make the most of every opportunity."
ACT OF LOVE: My mom came back from Detroit last night. She was at a few churches in Detroit and Ohio this weekend as the guest speaker for a weekend conference they had. I took some time today to ask her how it went and listen to some of the amazing experiences she's had over there. I (and Barnabas) had prayed for her this weekend, and it was super encouraging to hear God's answer to our prayers! What she shared was pretty amazing, and she definitely felt the support of prayer with her during her time at Detroit. She came back exhausted, but very excited! Praise God!
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Colossians 3, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #149: CHEERFULNESS
PASSAGE: Rules for Holy Living, Rules for Christian Households
MEMORY VERSE: "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life--in order that on the of Christ I may boast that I did not run or labor in vain." Philippians 2:14-16
NOTES: (v.2) "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God."
(v.5) "Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry...But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator."
(v.12) "Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all togehter in perfect unity."
(v.15) "Let the peace of Christ rule your hearts...and be thankful."
(v.17) "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all int he name of the Lord jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
(v.18) "Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. Children, obey your parents in everything, for it pleases the Lord."
(v.23) "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I...
-Tried to be a good customer to the Subway sandwich man by having a good attitude! His tone of voice changed from monotone to slightly cheerful :)
-Had a nice conversation with my dad about college. Sometimes, conversations about college/future/school can get a bit tense with my parents because they don't want me to procrastinate, but I tried to keep the mood of the conversation happy & to be responsive. It wasn't a super deep and personal talk, but it was once of the nicest conversations I've had with my dad in a while!
MEMORY VERSE: "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life--in order that on the of Christ I may boast that I did not run or labor in vain." Philippians 2:14-16
NOTES: (v.2) "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God."
(v.5) "Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry...But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator."
(v.12) "Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all togehter in perfect unity."
(v.15) "Let the peace of Christ rule your hearts...and be thankful."
(v.17) "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all int he name of the Lord jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
(v.18) "Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. Children, obey your parents in everything, for it pleases the Lord."
(v.23) "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I...
-Tried to be a good customer to the Subway sandwich man by having a good attitude! His tone of voice changed from monotone to slightly cheerful :)
-Had a nice conversation with my dad about college. Sometimes, conversations about college/future/school can get a bit tense with my parents because they don't want me to procrastinate, but I tried to keep the mood of the conversation happy & to be responsive. It wasn't a super deep and personal talk, but it was once of the nicest conversations I've had with my dad in a while!
Colossians 2. 365 DAYS OF LOVE #148: CARDS, LETTERS
PASSAGE: Freedom from Human Regulations Through Life with Christ
MEMORY VERSE: "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation--in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life, so that on the day of Christ I may boast that I did not run or labor for nothing." Philippians 2:14-16
NOTES: (v.6) "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
(v.13) "When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross."
(v.18) "Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you for the prize. Such a person goes into great detail about what he has seen, and his unspiritual mind puffs him up with idle notions. He has lost connection with the Head, from whom the whole body, supported and held together by its ligaments and sinews, grows as God causes it to grow."
(v.23) "Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining snesual indulgence."
ACT OF LOVE: Today I made a few handwritten encouragements: first, a letter to my friend Sarah (who loves handwritten letters) because she encouraged me!
And secondly, a card to my youth counselors Jason and Abby, who just adopted a baby! Wished them congrats :)
MEMORY VERSE: "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation--in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life, so that on the day of Christ I may boast that I did not run or labor for nothing." Philippians 2:14-16
NOTES: (v.6) "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
(v.13) "When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross."
(v.18) "Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you for the prize. Such a person goes into great detail about what he has seen, and his unspiritual mind puffs him up with idle notions. He has lost connection with the Head, from whom the whole body, supported and held together by its ligaments and sinews, grows as God causes it to grow."
(v.23) "Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining snesual indulgence."
ACT OF LOVE: Today I made a few handwritten encouragements: first, a letter to my friend Sarah (who loves handwritten letters) because she encouraged me!
And secondly, a card to my youth counselors Jason and Abby, who just adopted a baby! Wished them congrats :)
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Colossians 1, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #147: SUPPORT MARK
PASSAGE: Thanksgiving and Prayer, The Supremacy of Christ, Paul's Labor for the Church
MEMORY VERSE: "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the world of life--in order that on the day of Christ I may boast that I did not run or labor in vain." Philippians 2:14-16
NOTES: (v.10) "And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please himn in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfulling giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light."
(v.13) "For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins."
(v.15) "He is the imagine of the invisble God...He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body; the church."
(v.27) "To them God has chosen to make knwon among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory."
(v.28) "We prclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I received an email from my friend Mark who is training to be in the military in Georgia. He is going to go to Kenya in December with a team of missionaries to do God's work and to minister to the people of Kitui (the village he's going to). In the letter, he asked for both financial and prayer support/feedback. I immediately responded to him and encouraged him, and asked him about some of the financial stuff. During Barnabas today, we also prayed collectively as a group for him and his team as they begin their work. I also made the commitment to try to pray for him daily during my QTs, as well as regularly during Barnabas (and with any financial support I can give). Please pray for Mark; that they'll receive the supplies, financial support, and be readily equipped in the gospel for these people!
MEMORY VERSE: "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the world of life--in order that on the day of Christ I may boast that I did not run or labor in vain." Philippians 2:14-16
NOTES: (v.10) "And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please himn in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfulling giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light."
(v.13) "For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins."
(v.15) "He is the imagine of the invisble God...He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body; the church."
(v.27) "To them God has chosen to make knwon among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory."
(v.28) "We prclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I received an email from my friend Mark who is training to be in the military in Georgia. He is going to go to Kenya in December with a team of missionaries to do God's work and to minister to the people of Kitui (the village he's going to). In the letter, he asked for both financial and prayer support/feedback. I immediately responded to him and encouraged him, and asked him about some of the financial stuff. During Barnabas today, we also prayed collectively as a group for him and his team as they begin their work. I also made the commitment to try to pray for him daily during my QTs, as well as regularly during Barnabas (and with any financial support I can give). Please pray for Mark; that they'll receive the supplies, financial support, and be readily equipped in the gospel for these people!
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Ephesians 6, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #146: PRAYING FOR MOM
*I know I just finished Philippians and I had just recently studied Ephesians 6, but I felt convicted to study the Armor of God again and to really let it "soak" in my heart.
*WOOW I had typed up this super long Notes section with color coordination and everything, but something went whack with my computer and all I was left with was...nothing. BOO. So here's a shortened and less elaborate version of what I had written earlier
PASSAGE: The Armor of God
MEMORY VERSE: "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become pure and blameless, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life--in order that on the day of Christ I may boast that I did not labor or run for nothing" Philippians 2:14-16
NOTES: "Stand firm then, with the
BELT OF TRUTH buckled around your waist,
with the BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS in place,
and with your FEET fitted with the READINESS that comes from the GOSPEL OF PEACE.
In addition to all this, take up the SHIELD OF FAITH, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
Take the HELMET OF SALVATION and the SWORD OF THE SPIRIT, which is the Word of God.
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
Pray also for me, that whenver I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should."
ACT OF LOVE: My mom is leaving tomorrow morning for a weekend conference in Detroit, MI, to which she was invited to be the speaker. I spent some time after dinner praying with her, that she may be equipped to speak the word of God, that
"words will be given to her so that she will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel" [Eph 6:19]. Also will spend some time praying for her during my QT
*WOOW I had typed up this super long Notes section with color coordination and everything, but something went whack with my computer and all I was left with was...nothing. BOO. So here's a shortened and less elaborate version of what I had written earlier
PASSAGE: The Armor of God
MEMORY VERSE: "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become pure and blameless, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life--in order that on the day of Christ I may boast that I did not labor or run for nothing" Philippians 2:14-16
NOTES: "Stand firm then, with the
BELT OF TRUTH buckled around your waist,
with the BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS in place,
and with your FEET fitted with the READINESS that comes from the GOSPEL OF PEACE.
In addition to all this, take up the SHIELD OF FAITH, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
Take the HELMET OF SALVATION and the SWORD OF THE SPIRIT, which is the Word of God.
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
Pray also for me, that whenver I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should."
ACT OF LOVE: My mom is leaving tomorrow morning for a weekend conference in Detroit, MI, to which she was invited to be the speaker. I spent some time after dinner praying with her, that she may be equipped to speak the word of God, that
"words will be given to her so that she will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel" [Eph 6:19]. Also will spend some time praying for her during my QT
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Philippians 4, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #145: SHORTS
PASSAGE: Exhortations, Thanks for Their Gifts, Final Greetings
MEMORY VERSE: "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in this wicked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life--in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing." Philippians 2:14-16
NOTES: (v.4) "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near."
(v.6-7) Memory verse/VBS review! "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
(v.8) "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things."
(v.12) "...I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whatever living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, we had a dance instructor come in during my Play Production class to teach us a routine. Whenever we have dance days, we have to be dressed in "dance-able" clothing and shoes, or else we can't participate. One of my friends forgot about it and didn't bring proper pants, so I lent her the shorts that I had brought! :) It was FUN.
MEMORY VERSE: "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in this wicked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life--in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing." Philippians 2:14-16
NOTES: (v.4) "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near."
(v.6-7) Memory verse/VBS review! "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
(v.8) "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things."
(v.12) "...I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whatever living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, we had a dance instructor come in during my Play Production class to teach us a routine. Whenever we have dance days, we have to be dressed in "dance-able" clothing and shoes, or else we can't participate. One of my friends forgot about it and didn't bring proper pants, so I lent her the shorts that I had brought! :) It was FUN.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Philippians 3, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #144: MOM'S BDAY
PASSAGE: No Confidence in the Flesh, Pressing on Toward the Goal
MEMORY VERSE: "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life--in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing" Philippians 2:14-16
NOTES: Memory verse review! "But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the suprassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish that I might gain Christ and be found in Him, not have a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that comes from God and is by faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain the ressurection from the dead." (v.7-11)
(v.14) "I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."
(v.20) "But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagery await a Savoir from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I suprised my mom with a beautiful boquet of flowers and a gift card to Pottery Barn (which is like her favorite store) for her birthday!
Also, as I was walking to Vons, a homeless-looking man asked for the time. On the way back, he was still there. I didn't have anything to give him but a smile on his face and an encouragement :) He face brightened and he chuckled!
MEMORY VERSE: "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life--in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing" Philippians 2:14-16
NOTES: Memory verse review! "But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the suprassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish that I might gain Christ and be found in Him, not have a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that comes from God and is by faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain the ressurection from the dead." (v.7-11)
(v.14) "I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."
(v.20) "But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagery await a Savoir from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I suprised my mom with a beautiful boquet of flowers and a gift card to Pottery Barn (which is like her favorite store) for her birthday!
Also, as I was walking to Vons, a homeless-looking man asked for the time. On the way back, he was still there. I didn't have anything to give him but a smile on his face and an encouragement :) He face brightened and he chuckled!
Monday, September 13, 2010
Philippians 2, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #143: WAIT
PASSAGE: Imitating Christ's Humlity, Shining as Stars, Timothy and Epaphhroditus
MEMORY VERSE:"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the univesre as you hold out the world of life--in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or lbaor for nothing." Philippians 2:14-16
NOTES: (v.3) "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."
(v.5) "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death--even death on a cross!"
(v.14) "Do everything without complaining or arguing, sot hat you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the univesre as you hold out the world of life--in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or lbaor for nothing."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I spent 10+ minutes waiting for my friend during lunch because we usually walk to lunch together. Even though I was hungry and was tempted to go ahead without her, I waited until she was released from her class so that we could get lunch together!
MEMORY VERSE:"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the univesre as you hold out the world of life--in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or lbaor for nothing." Philippians 2:14-16
NOTES: (v.3) "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."
(v.5) "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death--even death on a cross!"
(v.14) "Do everything without complaining or arguing, sot hat you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the univesre as you hold out the world of life--in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or lbaor for nothing."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I spent 10+ minutes waiting for my friend during lunch because we usually walk to lunch together. Even though I was hungry and was tempted to go ahead without her, I waited until she was released from her class so that we could get lunch together!
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Philippians 1, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #142: MISC
PASSAGE: Thanksgiving and Prayer, Paul's Chains Advance the Gospel
MEMORY VERSE: "In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry" Ephesians 4:26
NOTES: (v.9) "And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the say of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ--to the glory and praise of God"
(v.14) "Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly."
(v.15) "It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so in love...the former preach Christ....supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice"
DUDE this passage just blows me away. Paul is truly living out the command to "deny yourself and take up your cross and follow me (Jesus)" [Luke 9:23-25]. It reminds of a verse I learned at YSC: "He must become greater; I must become less" [John 3:30]. It's amazing that even as people are working against Paul to give him trouble, he still rejoices because Christ is being preached. The message of the gospel is so much more important to him than his own self that it he truly has decreased himself so that God may increase. WOW.
(v.20) "I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." This, and Ephesians 6:19-20 is an ongoing prayer request that I have. For a while now I have been hungry to spread love specifically by sharing the gospel, and lately i've been convicted to scatter seeds of His salvation on my high school campus. However, boldness and courage is something that I struggle with when dealing with non-Christians, because I more often than not fear men more than I fear God. Pray that when I am faced with an opportunity to share His message, I will "Fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel" for Jesus!!
(v.29) "For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I...
-Gave my friend a ride to the Sunday morning meeting we had. Bright & early at 8am!
-Talked to/encouraged both speakers from the Sunday service session and the HS/Jr High Sunday school session briefly. I introduced myself and thanked them for coming! (This weekend was a conference where a whole bunch of sister churches from around the world came and spent the weekend with us. There were delegates from India, Indonesia, Canada, Hong Kong, and a whole bunch of other places! Pretty cool stuff!)
-Gave up my seat on the couch (after some "encouragement") so that jr highers/other high schoolers could sit there. Sat next to a girl named Grace that I just met & got to know her a bit. She's super nice!
-A random stranger needed change for a $20, and since no one else had change I gave it to him (although I was initially reluctant)
MEMORY VERSE: "In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry" Ephesians 4:26
NOTES: (v.9) "And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the say of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ--to the glory and praise of God"
(v.14) "Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly."
(v.15) "It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so in love...the former preach Christ....supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice"
DUDE this passage just blows me away. Paul is truly living out the command to "deny yourself and take up your cross and follow me (Jesus)" [Luke 9:23-25]. It reminds of a verse I learned at YSC: "He must become greater; I must become less" [John 3:30]. It's amazing that even as people are working against Paul to give him trouble, he still rejoices because Christ is being preached. The message of the gospel is so much more important to him than his own self that it he truly has decreased himself so that God may increase. WOW.
(v.20) "I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." This, and Ephesians 6:19-20 is an ongoing prayer request that I have. For a while now I have been hungry to spread love specifically by sharing the gospel, and lately i've been convicted to scatter seeds of His salvation on my high school campus. However, boldness and courage is something that I struggle with when dealing with non-Christians, because I more often than not fear men more than I fear God. Pray that when I am faced with an opportunity to share His message, I will "Fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel" for Jesus!!
(v.29) "For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I...
-Gave my friend a ride to the Sunday morning meeting we had. Bright & early at 8am!
-Talked to/encouraged both speakers from the Sunday service session and the HS/Jr High Sunday school session briefly. I introduced myself and thanked them for coming! (This weekend was a conference where a whole bunch of sister churches from around the world came and spent the weekend with us. There were delegates from India, Indonesia, Canada, Hong Kong, and a whole bunch of other places! Pretty cool stuff!)
-Gave up my seat on the couch (after some "encouragement") so that jr highers/other high schoolers could sit there. Sat next to a girl named Grace that I just met & got to know her a bit. She's super nice!
-A random stranger needed change for a $20, and since no one else had change I gave it to him (although I was initially reluctant)
Ephesians 6, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #141: LETTERS
PASSAGE: Children and Parents, Slaves and Masters, The Armor of God, Final Greetings
MEMORY VERSE: "In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry" Ephesians 4:26
NOTES: (v.1) "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right."
(v.4) "Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in training and instruction of the Lord."
(v.7) "Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men, because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free" (Colossians 3:23-24)
(v.11) "Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
(v.14) "Stand for with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the berastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace....take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."
(v.18) "And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests."
(v.19) "Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should."
ACT OF LOVE: Today I wrote two letters to two of my friends who are out-of-state for college! I wrote on super nice stationary and bought pretty envelopes for them. I included stickers and some Bible verses for encouragement. Will send them out tomorrow or next week!
MEMORY VERSE: "In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry" Ephesians 4:26
NOTES: (v.1) "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right."
(v.4) "Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in training and instruction of the Lord."
(v.7) "Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men, because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free" (Colossians 3:23-24)
(v.11) "Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
(v.14) "Stand for with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the berastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace....take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."
(v.18) "And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests."
(v.19) "Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should."
ACT OF LOVE: Today I wrote two letters to two of my friends who are out-of-state for college! I wrote on super nice stationary and bought pretty envelopes for them. I included stickers and some Bible verses for encouragement. Will send them out tomorrow or next week!
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Ephesians 5, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #140: MADE A CARD
PASSAGE: Wives and Husbands
MEMORY VERSE: "In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry." Ephesians 4:26
NOTES: (v.1) "Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God."
(v.3) "But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because there are improper for God's holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person--such a man is an idolater--has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them.
(v.13) "But everything exposed by the light becomes visible."
(v.15) "Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil."
(v.21) "submit to one another out of reverence for Christ."
(v.22) "Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savoir....Husbands, love your wives just as Christ love the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself."
(v.31) "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh."
ACT OF LOVE: I had made a card for my friend, and was planning on giving it to her at Friday fellowship tonight, but she wasn't there! :( It was an encouragement/thank you card, because she had encouraged me earlier with a random but super sweet note, so I wanted to return the favor! :)
MEMORY VERSE: "In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry." Ephesians 4:26
NOTES: (v.1) "Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God."
(v.3) "But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because there are improper for God's holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person--such a man is an idolater--has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them.
(v.13) "But everything exposed by the light becomes visible."
(v.15) "Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil."
(v.21) "submit to one another out of reverence for Christ."
(v.22) "Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savoir....Husbands, love your wives just as Christ love the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself."
(v.31) "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh."
ACT OF LOVE: I had made a card for my friend, and was planning on giving it to her at Friday fellowship tonight, but she wasn't there! :( It was an encouragement/thank you card, because she had encouraged me earlier with a random but super sweet note, so I wanted to return the favor! :)
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Ephesians 4, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #139: THROWING AWAY TRASH
PASSAGE: Unity in the Body of Christ, Living as Children of Light
MEMORY VERSE: "In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry" Ephesians 4:26
NOTES: (v.1) "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make everyone effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."
(v.11) "It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ."
(v.14) "Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming."
YSC THEME VERSE! "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which was being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds, and to put on a new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."
OLD SELF: lack of sensitivity because of ignorance; given over to "sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more " (v.17-19)
filled with unwholesome talk, "bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice"
NEW SELF: insists on the Lord (17), "speak truthfully to his neighbor" (25), does not give the devil a foothold (27), and build others up with their words (v29)
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you"
ACT OF LOVE: Today at lunch, I purposefully threw away my friends' trash without being asked! Also, during Calculus, I became the historian because no one else in my group wanted to do it (you basically just record the homework scores each day). I served them by doing a less-than-desirable task. Whooo
MEMORY VERSE: "In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry" Ephesians 4:26
NOTES: (v.1) "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make everyone effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."
(v.11) "It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ."
(v.14) "Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming."
YSC THEME VERSE! "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which was being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds, and to put on a new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."
OLD SELF: lack of sensitivity because of ignorance; given over to "sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more " (v.17-19)
filled with unwholesome talk, "bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice"
NEW SELF: insists on the Lord (17), "speak truthfully to his neighbor" (25), does not give the devil a foothold (27), and build others up with their words (v29)
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you"
ACT OF LOVE: Today at lunch, I purposefully threw away my friends' trash without being asked! Also, during Calculus, I became the historian because no one else in my group wanted to do it (you basically just record the homework scores each day). I served them by doing a less-than-desirable task. Whooo
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Ephesians 3, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #138: PRAYING FOR MCATS
PASSAGE: Paul the Preacher to the Gentiles, A Prayer for the Ephesians
MEMORY VERSE: "In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry." Ephesians 4:26
NOTES: (v.6) "This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus."
(v.7) "I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God's grace given me through the working of his power. Although I am less than the least of all God's people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things."
(v.12) "In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence"
(v.16) "I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God."
ACT OF LOVE: Spent some time specifically praying for a friend who will be taking her MCATs tomorrow! Fun stuff!
MEMORY VERSE: "In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry." Ephesians 4:26
NOTES: (v.6) "This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus."
(v.7) "I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God's grace given me through the working of his power. Although I am less than the least of all God's people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things."
(v.12) "In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence"
(v.16) "I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God."
ACT OF LOVE: Spent some time specifically praying for a friend who will be taking her MCATs tomorrow! Fun stuff!
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Ephesians 2, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #137: OPENED A DOOR
PASSAGE: Made Alive in Christ, One in Christ
MEMORY VERSE: "In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry." Ephesians 4:25
NOTES: (v.1) "As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air...All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath. But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved."
(v.8) "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Being saved by GRACE and not by works is a theme that has been reoccurring throughout the new testament, especially through 2 Corinthians to Galatians. Personally, since I basically grew up in the Christ, it wasn't always evident to me how much of a miracle by God it was that I was saved, and how much I truly do live by grace in comparison to my "old self" (Ephesians 4:22-24). It's important to remind myself that anything and everything I do is through God's power, and that no amount of "good deeds" can earn me a salvation. Even as I continue on the 365 Days of Love Challenge, it's important to understand that doing these acts of love isn't what secures my spot in heaven--its the faith in Christ's sacrifice and resurrection, and that I am God's workmanship--His beloved! :) That being said, I have no reason to boast, because everything is through God's grace and power! wowie!
(v.17) "He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit."
(v.21) "In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord."
ACT OF LOVE: So, since today was the LAST DAY before school started, I, like many other seniors, spent my day fervently finishing up the last bit of summer homework. Luckily, I only had a self portrait to do, but it still took almost the whole day. However, I consequently had little to no human interaction. The one time I did go outside though, I went to buy Subway for lunch. While there, I opened the door for people, smiled at them, and wished them a good day.
MEMORY VERSE: "In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry." Ephesians 4:25
NOTES: (v.1) "As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air...All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath. But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved."
(v.8) "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Being saved by GRACE and not by works is a theme that has been reoccurring throughout the new testament, especially through 2 Corinthians to Galatians. Personally, since I basically grew up in the Christ, it wasn't always evident to me how much of a miracle by God it was that I was saved, and how much I truly do live by grace in comparison to my "old self" (Ephesians 4:22-24). It's important to remind myself that anything and everything I do is through God's power, and that no amount of "good deeds" can earn me a salvation. Even as I continue on the 365 Days of Love Challenge, it's important to understand that doing these acts of love isn't what secures my spot in heaven--its the faith in Christ's sacrifice and resurrection, and that I am God's workmanship--His beloved! :) That being said, I have no reason to boast, because everything is through God's grace and power! wowie!
(v.17) "He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit."
(v.21) "In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord."
ACT OF LOVE: So, since today was the LAST DAY before school started, I, like many other seniors, spent my day fervently finishing up the last bit of summer homework. Luckily, I only had a self portrait to do, but it still took almost the whole day. However, I consequently had little to no human interaction. The one time I did go outside though, I went to buy Subway for lunch. While there, I opened the door for people, smiled at them, and wished them a good day.
Ephesians 1, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #136: REORGANIZING
PASSAGE: Spiritual Blessings in Christ, Thanksgiving and Prayer
MEMORY VERSE: "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I still trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ" Galatians 1:10
NOTES: (v.7) "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding."
(v.9) "And he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment--to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ."
(v.13) "And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession--to the praise of his glory"
(v.22) "And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the churcuh, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I spent most of my time trying to finish up the last bits of summer homework that I honestly was not all that focused on loving. However, as a small act of love, I took some time out of my homeworking during the day to clean and reorganize the study room that my mom and I work in. It only took maybe half an hour to forty five minutes, but I completely reorganized the desks and cleaned out a whole bunch of junk that had accumulated. It felt pretty good to clean everything out and make the office room alot neater!
MEMORY VERSE: "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I still trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ" Galatians 1:10
NOTES: (v.7) "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding."
(v.9) "And he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment--to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ."
(v.13) "And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession--to the praise of his glory"
(v.22) "And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the churcuh, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way."
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I spent most of my time trying to finish up the last bits of summer homework that I honestly was not all that focused on loving. However, as a small act of love, I took some time out of my homeworking during the day to clean and reorganize the study room that my mom and I work in. It only took maybe half an hour to forty five minutes, but I completely reorganized the desks and cleaned out a whole bunch of junk that had accumulated. It felt pretty good to clean everything out and make the office room alot neater!
Monday, September 6, 2010
Galatians 6, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #135: LOVING MOM
PASSAGE: Doing Good to All, Not Circumcision but a New Creation
MEMORY VERSE: "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ" Galatians 1:10
NOTES: Memory verse review! "Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ" (v.1-2)
(v.7) "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life."
Memory review p2: "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people; especially to those who belong to the family of believers" (v.9-10)
(v.14) "May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is a new creation."
ACT OF LOVE: Today at lunch, I had the option of going to Cheesecake Factory with a whole bunch of friends after church, or eating with my mom. Though I had initially intended on going to Cheesecake Factory, I decided to accompany my mom for lunch so that she wouldn't have to eat alone, especially on a beautiful Sunday. During lunch, I did the best I could to serve her--I poured tea for her, served her rice, and purposefully ate the "worse" parts of the chicken (the rear..the feet, etc) so that she could enjoy the juicy, meaty portion of it. Later that day, I made dinner FOR THE FIRST TIME so that she wouldn't have to cook for me (&did the dishes after)! It was just fried rice, but still....baby steps :) I'm slowlyyy learning to cook.
NOTES: Memory verse review! "Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ" (v.1-2)
(v.7) "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life."
Memory review p2: "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people; especially to those who belong to the family of believers" (v.9-10)
(v.14) "May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is a new creation."
ACT OF LOVE: Today at lunch, I had the option of going to Cheesecake Factory with a whole bunch of friends after church, or eating with my mom. Though I had initially intended on going to Cheesecake Factory, I decided to accompany my mom for lunch so that she wouldn't have to eat alone, especially on a beautiful Sunday. During lunch, I did the best I could to serve her--I poured tea for her, served her rice, and purposefully ate the "worse" parts of the chicken (the rear..the feet, etc) so that she could enjoy the juicy, meaty portion of it. Later that day, I made dinner FOR THE FIRST TIME so that she wouldn't have to cook for me (&did the dishes after)! It was just fried rice, but still....baby steps :) I'm slowlyyy learning to cook.
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| MMMMMMMM! |
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Galatians 5, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #134: FLOWER
PASSAGE: Freedom in Christ, Life by the Spirit
MEMORY VERSE: "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ." Galatians 1:10
NOTES: (v.4) "You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace. But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit the righteousness for which we hope."
(v.6) "For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love."
(v.13) "You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rahter, serve one another in love."
(v.14) "The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."
(v.19-26) "The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God."
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. Against such things there is no law."
ACT OF LOVE: This act of love is similar to yesterday's. After lunch, me and my mom stopped by the farmers market and saw that they were selling sunflowers for like, half the price of what we bought them yesterday. My mom bought some to arrange at home, so I took one to give to one of my neighbors! I rinsed out my boba cup, taped a lid from one of my other drinks, put some plastic rocks inside, filled the cup with water and stuck the flower stem through the straw hole! I also made a card that had an encouragement and Bible verse on it, and tied it to the flower. I put it on one of my neighbor's doorstep, and left it there for them to discover :)
MEMORY VERSE: "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ." Galatians 1:10
NOTES: (v.4) "You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace. But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit the righteousness for which we hope."
(v.6) "For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love."
(v.13) "You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rahter, serve one another in love."
(v.14) "The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."
(v.19-26) "The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God."
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. Against such things there is no law."
ACT OF LOVE: This act of love is similar to yesterday's. After lunch, me and my mom stopped by the farmers market and saw that they were selling sunflowers for like, half the price of what we bought them yesterday. My mom bought some to arrange at home, so I took one to give to one of my neighbors! I rinsed out my boba cup, taped a lid from one of my other drinks, put some plastic rocks inside, filled the cup with water and stuck the flower stem through the straw hole! I also made a card that had an encouragement and Bible verse on it, and tied it to the flower. I put it on one of my neighbor's doorstep, and left it there for them to discover :)
Friday, September 3, 2010
Galatians 4, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #133: SUNFLOWER STRANGER
PASSAGE: Sons of God, Paul's Concern for the Galatians, Hagar and Sarah
MEMORY VERSE: "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ?" Galatians 1:10
NOTES: (4:26) "You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus)
(v.4) "But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons."
(v.7) "So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir."
(v.8) "Formerly, when you did not know God, you were slaves to those who by nature are not gods.
(v.18) "It is fine to be zealous, provided the purpose is good, and to be so always and not just when I am with you."
(v.28) "Now you, brothers, like Issac, are children of promise. At that time the son born in the ordinary way persecuted the son born by the power of the Spirit. It is the same now. But what does the Scripture say? "Get rid of the slave woman and her son, for the salve woman's son will never share the inheritance with the free woman's son. Therefore, brothers, we are not children of the slave woman, but of the free woman."
ACT OF LOVE: Sunflowers are my favorite kind of flower. Just seeing a sunflower can brighten my day, so I wanted to try brightening other people's days as well! I went and bought a whole bunch of sunflowers from Home Depot and tried to (anonymously) hand them out to people. Since my mom took me right before we got to church, I decided to try to be anonymous and hand them out to church people. My friend Natalie and Stephanie suggested that I disguise myself in a "New Life" sweater and a paper bag over my head to try and make it anonymous, but it was sort of a fail haha. Alot of people recognized who I was, so I guess it wasn't as anonymous as I would have liked. HOWEVER, some people were still stumped by my disguise, and I did manage to give a few flowers as a stranger! Even if my cover was blown, I hope the flowers brightened their day :) Next time though, I'll do a better job at planning/choosing my location. hahaha.
MEMORY VERSE: "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ?" Galatians 1:10
NOTES: (4:26) "You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus)
(v.4) "But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons."
(v.7) "So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir."
(v.8) "Formerly, when you did not know God, you were slaves to those who by nature are not gods.
(v.18) "It is fine to be zealous, provided the purpose is good, and to be so always and not just when I am with you."
(v.28) "Now you, brothers, like Issac, are children of promise. At that time the son born in the ordinary way persecuted the son born by the power of the Spirit. It is the same now. But what does the Scripture say? "Get rid of the slave woman and her son, for the salve woman's son will never share the inheritance with the free woman's son. Therefore, brothers, we are not children of the slave woman, but of the free woman."
ACT OF LOVE: Sunflowers are my favorite kind of flower. Just seeing a sunflower can brighten my day, so I wanted to try brightening other people's days as well! I went and bought a whole bunch of sunflowers from Home Depot and tried to (anonymously) hand them out to people. Since my mom took me right before we got to church, I decided to try to be anonymous and hand them out to church people. My friend Natalie and Stephanie suggested that I disguise myself in a "New Life" sweater and a paper bag over my head to try and make it anonymous, but it was sort of a fail haha. Alot of people recognized who I was, so I guess it wasn't as anonymous as I would have liked. HOWEVER, some people were still stumped by my disguise, and I did manage to give a few flowers as a stranger! Even if my cover was blown, I hope the flowers brightened their day :) Next time though, I'll do a better job at planning/choosing my location. hahaha.
 |
| WHO IS THIS MYSTERIOUS SUNFLOWER STRANGER?! |
Galations 3, 265 DAYS OF LOVE #132: BAMBI
PASSAGE: Faith or Observance of the Law, The Law and the Promise
MEMORY VERSE: "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which was being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds, and to put on a new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness" Ephesians 4:22-24
NOTES: (v.3) "Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort?"
(v.5) "Does God give you his Spirit and work miracles among you because you observe the law, or because you believe what you heard?"
(v.6) "Consider Abraham: "He believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness"
(v.9) "So those who have faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith."
(v.11) "Clearly no one is justified before God by the law, because "The righteous will live by faith"
(v.14) "He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit."
(v.17) "The law, introduced 430 years later, does not set aside the covenant previously established by God and thus do away with the promise."
(v.19) "What, then, was the purpose of the law? It was added becasue of transgressions until the Seed to whom the promise referred had come. The law was put into effect through angels by a mediator. A mediator, however, does not represent just one party; but God is one."
(v.21) "Is the law, therefore, opposed to the promises of God? Absolutely not!...But the Scripture declares that the whole world is a prisoner of sin, so that what was promised, being given through faith in Jesus Christ, might be given to those who believe."
(v.24) "So the law was put in charge to lead us to Christ that we might be justified by faith. Now that faith has come, we are no longer under the supervision of the law."
ACT OF LOVE: I recently read a post by Greg Mah, which was centered around the verse Proverbs 12:10 "A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel." Inspired by this and yesterday's dog poo act of love, I decided to show love to Bambi today by caring/playing/watching him in the morning when my mom went out, taking care of all his bathroom necessities, and treating him with a third of a delicious, juicy peach. Since he's been around for so long, I rarely ever sit down and play with him anymore, so my act of love was showing affection for him and appreciation to my parents for adopting him by tending to him.
MEMORY VERSE: "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which was being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds, and to put on a new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness" Ephesians 4:22-24
NOTES: (v.3) "Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort?"
(v.5) "Does God give you his Spirit and work miracles among you because you observe the law, or because you believe what you heard?"
(v.6) "Consider Abraham: "He believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness"
(v.9) "So those who have faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith."
(v.11) "Clearly no one is justified before God by the law, because "The righteous will live by faith"
(v.14) "He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit."
(v.17) "The law, introduced 430 years later, does not set aside the covenant previously established by God and thus do away with the promise."
(v.19) "What, then, was the purpose of the law? It was added becasue of transgressions until the Seed to whom the promise referred had come. The law was put into effect through angels by a mediator. A mediator, however, does not represent just one party; but God is one."
(v.21) "Is the law, therefore, opposed to the promises of God? Absolutely not!...But the Scripture declares that the whole world is a prisoner of sin, so that what was promised, being given through faith in Jesus Christ, might be given to those who believe."
(v.24) "So the law was put in charge to lead us to Christ that we might be justified by faith. Now that faith has come, we are no longer under the supervision of the law."
ACT OF LOVE: I recently read a post by Greg Mah, which was centered around the verse Proverbs 12:10 "A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel." Inspired by this and yesterday's dog poo act of love, I decided to show love to Bambi today by caring/playing/watching him in the morning when my mom went out, taking care of all his bathroom necessities, and treating him with a third of a delicious, juicy peach. Since he's been around for so long, I rarely ever sit down and play with him anymore, so my act of love was showing affection for him and appreciation to my parents for adopting him by tending to him.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Galations 2, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #131: DOG POO
PASSAGE: Paul Accepted by the Apostles, Paul Opposes Peter
MEMORY VERSE: "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which was being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds, and to put on a new self, created to be like God in righteousness and holiness" Ephesians 4:22-24
NOTES: (v.6) "As for those who seemed to be important--whatever they were makes no difference to me; God does not judge by external appearance--those men added nothing to my message."
(v.15) "We who are Jews by birth and not 'Gentile sinners' know that a man is not justified by observing the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by observing the law, because by observing the law no one will be justified."
(v.18) "If I rebuild what I destroyed, I prove that I am a lawbreaker. For through the law I died to the law so that I might live for God. I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
(v.21) "I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!"
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I went to check the mail when I passed by some NASTY, CRUSTY, OLD DOG POOP. Initially I intended to step over it and move on, but I thought to myself, "If I don't pick it up, who will?" Judging from its appearance, it looked like it had been sitting there for quite some time. Also, there was a clan of giant steroid flies swarming it relentlessly. After being completely grossed out, I decided to run home and grab some newspaper to clean up this mysterious dog poo. In fact, it was so crusty that some of it was encrusted on the sidewalk, so I had to scrape it off with the newspaper. DISGUSTING, RIGHT?! But I'm glad I made the townhouse complex a tad more pleasant for the rest of the residents. Oh, and to anyone who owns dogs--clean up after them! Please!
MEMORY VERSE: "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which was being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds, and to put on a new self, created to be like God in righteousness and holiness" Ephesians 4:22-24
NOTES: (v.6) "As for those who seemed to be important--whatever they were makes no difference to me; God does not judge by external appearance--those men added nothing to my message."
(v.15) "We who are Jews by birth and not 'Gentile sinners' know that a man is not justified by observing the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by observing the law, because by observing the law no one will be justified."
(v.18) "If I rebuild what I destroyed, I prove that I am a lawbreaker. For through the law I died to the law so that I might live for God. I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
(v.21) "I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!"
ACT OF LOVE: Today, I went to check the mail when I passed by some NASTY, CRUSTY, OLD DOG POOP. Initially I intended to step over it and move on, but I thought to myself, "If I don't pick it up, who will?" Judging from its appearance, it looked like it had been sitting there for quite some time. Also, there was a clan of giant steroid flies swarming it relentlessly. After being completely grossed out, I decided to run home and grab some newspaper to clean up this mysterious dog poo. In fact, it was so crusty that some of it was encrusted on the sidewalk, so I had to scrape it off with the newspaper. DISGUSTING, RIGHT?! But I'm glad I made the townhouse complex a tad more pleasant for the rest of the residents. Oh, and to anyone who owns dogs--clean up after them! Please!
Galations 1, 365 DAYS OF LOVE #130: REGISTRATION
PASSAGE: No Other Gospel, Paul Called By God
MEMORY VERSE: "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which was being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on a new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness" Ephesians 4:22-24
NOTES: (v.6) "I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel--7which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ."
(v.10) "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If i were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ."
(v.11) "I want you to know, brothers, that the gospel I preached is not something that man made up. I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ."
(v.23) "They only heard the report: 'The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.' And they praised God because of me."
ACT OF LOVE: When my alarm rang at 7:10am this morning, I was seriously tempted to go back to sleep.
Earlier, I had agreed to help out with the freshman registration at West (so I had to be at school by 7:45), but upon waking up this morning, getting out of bed was the last thing I wanted to do. In fact, I was genuinely considering going late or not going at all because I had woken up with a headache and a bad mood. However, after 10 minutes or so of deliberation, I finally forced myself to get out of bed.
I helped out with the Freshmen registration from 7:45am-11:45am ish: 4 hours of filing, alphabetizing, and sorting! I did the best I could with helping out, and didn't leave until everything was all squared away. YAY FRESHMEN!
MEMORY VERSE: "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which was being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on a new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness" Ephesians 4:22-24
NOTES: (v.6) "I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel--7which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ."
(v.10) "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If i were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ."
(v.11) "I want you to know, brothers, that the gospel I preached is not something that man made up. I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ."
(v.23) "They only heard the report: 'The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.' And they praised God because of me."
ACT OF LOVE: When my alarm rang at 7:10am this morning, I was seriously tempted to go back to sleep.
Earlier, I had agreed to help out with the freshman registration at West (so I had to be at school by 7:45), but upon waking up this morning, getting out of bed was the last thing I wanted to do. In fact, I was genuinely considering going late or not going at all because I had woken up with a headache and a bad mood. However, after 10 minutes or so of deliberation, I finally forced myself to get out of bed.
I helped out with the Freshmen registration from 7:45am-11:45am ish: 4 hours of filing, alphabetizing, and sorting! I did the best I could with helping out, and didn't leave until everything was all squared away. YAY FRESHMEN!
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