Joyful Expectation...Another long delayed entry!

Greetings I hope this entry finds everyone in joyful expectation for a celebration! A celebration of the life and birth of the one who paid the ultimate penalty for our sins, that we would have life more abundantly. This gift that God gave us through the person of Jesus Christ. I love the Christmas carol " Hark the herald Angels Sing." Not only does the song have a delightful melody, but the message it contains is truly a revelation of God and the work of Jesus Christ on the cross. I just want to take this time to share a favorite verse:

Hark the herald angeIs sing
Glory to the newborn King.

Mild he lays his glory by,
Born that man no more may die,
Born to raise the sons of earth,
Born to give them second birth.
Risen with healing in his wings,
Light and life to all he brings,
Hail, the Sun of Righteousness
Hail, the heaven-born Prince of Peace.

Hark the heraId angels sing
Glory to the newborn King.


What insight these verses give us! Jesus lived to die so that we would no more die. He was born to heal and redeem us , and he lives to intercede on our behalf. He was born that we would die to sin, and one day be risen with him to witness all his glory and majesty.

A few weeks ago I started a brand new chapter. I relocated to Baltimore Maryland. Moving and leaving family behind has been such a challenge. I thought it would be so easy to just pack my stuff, but I am learning that there is a such thing as separation pains. Its not so much that I miss home, but realizing that I am really entering adulthood. These pains however, can never compare to the pain Jesus felt when he was separated from God fulfilling his mission to pay our penalty because of our sins. "Now from the sixth hour darkness fell upon all the land until the ninth hour. 46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, "Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?" that is, "My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?"~ Matthew 27-45-46. This is still simply a pain unimaginable. Imagine sharing such a deep an intimate relationship with some one for so long, and then feeling as if that person is no longer there. Imagine the pain of spending every waking hour with someone and then suddenly only see them once per week. That is exactly what sin does to us, and why Jesus had to experience such separation. Sin separated us from God, but don't despair because there is good news coming. The good news is that every last one of our sins, even those future to us, he paid for through suffering. " For he was wounded for our transgressions, the chastisement that brought us our peace was upon him" Isaiah 53:5. But God raised Jesus to life. After his anguish came glory, and his light shines brightly. Like a pregnant mother in labor Christ gave birth to our redemption. Christ is truly what we as believers are celebrating. His victory over sin, and the snares of the enemy , and accusers of our souls. We have this victory in Jesus, and he asks us to believe, have faith, and allow his Holy spirit to transform our lives and turn us from sin. Hark the herald angels sing! Glory to the Newborn King! Peace be with you all this Christmas season.

With Love,

Kohl

Long Delayed Entry

Greetings! I hope this long delayed entry finds you well, and encouraged. Again it seems as if I have been on a hiatus from blogging. The year has officially begun, as all my regular activities and bible studies have resumed. It seems that I have something to participate in every day. From church Acolytes to Sunday school and weekly bible study, there is barley idle time. I am grateful for this because it keeps my mind occupied with things of God.

On each Tuesday I attend Bible Studies Fellowship. This is a wonderful instrument God has used to bring me more into the knowledge of Christ, and his ultimate plans and purposes for our redemption. This is an International Bible study with classes all over the world. Groups are separated by gender. There are women’s day classes, and night classes. I attend the Huntsville night class at Southside Baptist Church. It’s easy for me to leave work at 5:00pm, and head straight over for class at 6:25pm. If you visit the BSF website, you will find that these classes began more than fifty years ago. It seeded out of a desire of a small group of women to deepen their faith through weekly study of God’s word. In almost every major city in the United States you can find a BSF class. If you happen to be traveling for work, or visiting family in other places, you can sit in on a class in whatever city, and not miss a beat. The same lesson will be covered.

Last year during a time of great transition, I felt so thirsty for more knowledge of the living God. When I walked into my first BSF class, I was comforted and knew God had ordained me to be in that space. My initial small group consisted of about 15 ladies of many different ages, ethnicities, and professional backgrounds. We studied the book of Isaiah which was very intense and challenging. Each lady provided a window to look though to different perspectives. I love BSF because it’s scripture based, and it challenges me to remain in the word. Each week there are questions to answer based on the current book you are studying. By the time you are finished, you have looked at the passage in question FOUR times, leaving room for the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to new perspectives. Here is a breakdown of how it works

1. In your quiet personal time, read the scripture passages and answer questions. This allows for the Holy Spirit to speak to you, and offer wisdom.

2. Meet with your small group and discuss the week’s questions. A time to see other perspectives and gain additional understanding

3. After small groups, all groups convene usually in a sanctuary for lecture. The Teaching Leader continues the work of the Holy Spirit, by shedding additional light and interpretations of the passage

4. Receive take home notes after the lecture to sum up the main points. Study those again to gain further understanding.


I know it seems like a mighty task, but there are so many blessings that arise from disciplined study of the word. Jesus said it most eloquently, “We cannot live by bread alone, but every word that comes from God.” ~ Matthew 4:4. This is a pretty powerful statement from the only person at the time sharing a deep and meaningful relationship with the Father. Jesus knew that our spiritual nourishment would keep us through the joys and sorrows of the present life, and remind us of the eternal inheritance awaiting us in the future. When I was first introduced to BSF, I was dealing with the physical loss of my grandmother. The fellowship with other women of faith kept me encouraged, through very difficult days. Having other ladies to pray for me and be genuinely concerned for my welfare made it easier to cope. Each week in BSF, your small group leader will ask for prayer requests. The A.S.K. Sheet is then distributed to other class members, and you pray for one another.

BSF normally begins shortly after school sessions resume, and last through late spring. We take a break in the summer. This year we are studying Acts of the Apostles. The main subject of this book is the gift of the Holy Spirit that Jesus gives to believers at Pentecost after he ascended to Heaven to be with the Father. In the book of Acts, we see the roots of the Christian church we know today. We see the transforming power of the Holy Spirit to turn average and ordinary men into great vessels of service to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Through this study, I am learning that God can use the most unlikely people to spur his plans and purpose. The eleven disciples were not schooled at renowned seminaries. Their power to preach the gospel and make disciples came from Jesus alone through the gift of the Holy Spirit. There is still much to learn, but I hope this entry will speak to someone today. Perhaps you might find yourself in the midst of transition and thirsty for more knowledge of the Living God. I invite you to visit the BSF website and locate a class near you. http://www.bsfinternational.org/Home/tabid/53/Default.aspx

If you are in the Huntsville area, I am available to answer any questions you might have, and provide information about the next introduction class. These classes are totally free, and it’s an amazing opportunity to study the word of God!

Impoverished

The spirit put this on my heart today. We are living in a society in which purity is deemed a disease. The family is broken and we have gotten away from the biblical and Godly principles that lead to stable families. We are SO caught up in the world and its desires that we are impoverished spiritually. We are in a spiritual famine. We fail to seek your kingdom first and study the word that created our life. “ In the beginning there was the WORD and the WORD was with GOD.”~ John 1:1. How do we neglect the word when it is so crucial to our very existence? Your spoken word created the air we breathe and the birds we see! We are impoverished and when will we begin to confess this so we can be healed by Our Father.

It’s been a while since I have written, and not because I have been so busy, but I have too been caught up, and my main focus skewed from the center love of my life, Jesus Christ. The one who sustains me through the struggles and strife’s of this life. Yes spiritually I am in need of his healing restoration to the full romance we share. I want those times where I would just lay in bed overwhelmed and completely content in his goodness. The days when I would look at an empty space and envision him standing in it. I desire to continue a sweet fellowship of trust and real communication. The willingness to tune everything out to be entrenched in the word! But even through our moments of spiritual poverty he is right here with us. He never leaves our side. The prophet Isaiah said it best “Can a mother forget a baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne?” ~ Isaiah 50:15. Most certainly not! And so it is with our SAVIOUR that he does not forget us. He feels the pain when we are distant. He too is distressed and longs for our return. Jesus feels for us and has an unfailing and unconditional love that acknowledges our weakness while also seeing our complete perfection in him. He lives for us today, just as he did yesterday. His blood spoke for us, and his hand is stretched out to be clinched by ours. Father we are so impoverished. Guide us to communicate with our lover more. Allow us to study your word. Give us revelation and understanding. There is nothing in the universe more satisfying than your love.

Have an amazing rest of the week everyone; hope this note touches someone’s heart today!
Love Kohl

~ I consider my life worth nothing, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me. The task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace. ~ Acts 20:24

Tearing Down Idols

I am thankful to God that I am able to write these blogs. I have slacked in my priorities which is evidenced my lack of posting this summer. God is dealing with me on a number of things. Just two years ago he began growing me in ways that I never thought possible. He took me from the deepest valleys of my life and told me I needed to grow and be that person that he preordained me to be to meet those purposes he had for my life. This summer the work again continues as he is calling me to grow so that we can reach those places God desires to take me. It’s almost like a baby learning to walk. Until he/she decides to stop crawling they are limited in the places they can go and the freedom God desires them to have.

Though at times I might think differently this is all about Jesus and none about me! We are greatly deceived when we think this life is about anything other than the glory of God. This might make things easier if like me you are a sensitive person, and hurt by sometimes offensive comments and negative people. It isn’t as much about you but the negative powers and principalities that existed from the beginning and continue to exist today. “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” ~Ephesians 6:12. We are called to look to Jesus the author and finisher of our faith for guidance in strength. We are called to deny ourselves and walk in love even if it means allowing others to react negatively towards us without returning in retaliation. It’s absolutley hard but absolutely necessary.

This last year God has revealed my idols and those things he desires to tear down to render me more effective for service in his eternal kingdom. An idol, as I have struggled to understand is anything that I place above the living God. It could be my family, job, a desire for worldly success, or significant other. These are all external, but the spirit is teaching me that my idols also exist internally. Idols of pride, doubt, worry, and un-forgiveness. When we hold on to these things, we give them priority and lose focus of Jesus, the only person who can move us safely across the troubled waters. If you desire for your idols to be removed it’s all a matter of asking the Holy Spirit to reveal those things that are distracting us from the real presence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Ask him to remove a spirit of un-forgiveness, or bitterness, and doubt. Ask him to remove those burdens that are keeping you from your true purpose. Ask him for the strength to be kind to those who are highly critical. Ask him for the grace and mercy to operate in those places of contention and opposition. Have you asked him to remove your idols?

Precious Faith

"Everything that does not come from faith is sin" (Rom. 14:23).
Two weeks again since my last post! Exactly one year ago my whole world changed completely. It was at this point in July that my Granny’s health went from 80% to 40% in a matter of days. As I look back I am amazed at the peace God gave me to get through. The strength he gave me to let go of my fears about her leaving this earth to go and begin her life in the splendor of his Glory. Being able to let go is one of the greatest gifts you can receive. I never imagined or experienced that time of peace in my lifetime until last year. I was perfectly content and trusted in the promise of everlasting life to all who believe that Jesus is and lives. “Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent”~ John 17:3. My spirit swells up just remembering my experience of knowing and trusting God enough to give Granny to him! The tears stream at times just thinking about God’s goodness. In essence God gave me the gift of faith to believe in a spiritual realm of eternity that my eyes have yet to see. One of my last conversations with Granny was about her transition to her new life, one much fuller than this present one. I spoke to her without tears, but with confident assurance that Jesus was present and would be with her always. I long for this precious faith in all my circumstances.

And this is Truth!

It has been a while since my last post. So much has happened these last few weeks that I don’t know where to begin. I am thankful that I had an interview two weeks in Maryland. It has been a year since my graduation from the Clinton School, and this was my first bite after over 365 days of sending resumes, and covers letters, and online applications. Honestly my faith has been tested in this last year, more so than I could have ever imagined. My response to these tests has not all always met the mark. I have fallen many times to the spirit of discouragement, and yes I have complained about my present circumstances. There have been many warnings and calls to wake up calls, but I seemed to press the ignore button. But thankfully my High Priests sit high upon the throne interceding for my transgressions. “Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” Hebrews 7:25. How great it this news that we have someone who’s primary purpose in life is to intercede and pray on our behalf. Once we come to believe in him through faith he forever lives to speak to the Father on our behalf. He is one with our father. I am grateful that he is allowing me to write this, because through this the Holy Spirit has convicted me but given me hope. The spirit is saying “Yes Kohl you are guilty you have fallen short today. You began to complain and mummer against your neighbor. You let Satan in to get under your skin, but JESUS has interceded for you. This is your only source of hope in times of great distress when it seems like everything but the kitchen sink is being thrown your way. All I can really say is Thank you God for this hope, because without it I would have sunk further into the trap and continued in my complaints. Truthfully, those in Christ have everything to be excited about. We are to be excited that God called us to be his children long before we ever existed. I am excited that he continues to provide for me and even today allowed for a great blessing. Thank you Father for making a way. The Father knows my heart and my character. Others might have opinions and perceptions, but God knows your heart and exactly where you are am coming from. God knows your true character and that is all that matters. I ask the Father to forgive me for surrendering to discouragement and complaints. This is truth: If we are faithful in confessing our sins we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.~ 1 John 1:9. While the enemy's main objective is to accuse, Jesus stands firm reminding us of the sacrifice through his blood shed on Calvary. So often we fall like babies learning how to walk, but through his blood we get back up and face another day with courage and thanksgiving ! Praise be to the Father. Best wishes and God speed on a great rest of the week.

God Be The Glory

God is truly an amazing wonder. Each day we are presented with brand new mercies, and so many chances to experience unconditional love and forgiveness. While at times my flesh fights against these opportunities with feelings of discouragement and doubt, God through the spirit sends a fresh perspective and awakens me to arise to the light of God's glory. A week ago, during my four hour visit to the hair salon I sat and read the story of Esther. I remember reading the story once last year, but today I realized that I didn't do it any justice. The richness of her story and her fearless courage is one that every young woman should read. It has been such a blessing to me today, as I am in the midst of transitions and important decisions. Esther had the courage to take a risk. She was fearless as her people, the jews, placed possible annihilation. As Queen, Esther was in the unique position to expose an evil plot devised by one of the Kings closest advisor. This advisor hated the Jews and despised Esther's relative. In those days even the Queen could not approach the King without first being summoned. Obviously she did not have much time to wait for this summons, as the advisor planned to carry out his plans against the jews quickly. It was common knowledge that anyone who approached the King without an official summons would be killed. Esther knowing this responded by saying " I will go to the King, even though its against the law. And if I perish, I perish"~Esther 4:16. Her fear did not paralyze her as she knew she had to act FAST! She had to speak up for her people. She displayed tremendous courage and boldness in the face of adversity. She laid her life down in the similar way that Jesus did for all of us on Calvary. He endured spiritual and physical pain of the worst kind so that we could be reconciled to God, and offered the promise of eternal fellowship with our Creator. "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends" ~John 15-13. Long story short Esther did not perish. She exposed the plot to the King and was God's instrument in saving her people from the destruction and attacks of their enemies. God used Esther in an amazing way. He uses all of us if we will just trust him. During the life of Jesus's ministry on earth he performed many miracles. Today I listened again to the story of Lazarus. Again I read this story last year, but its amazing the new things the spirit teaches you. Yes Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead after four days. While this seems to be the headliner, the major story is how God used Lazarus to reveal his Glory so that others would believe in a sovereign God. Its not so much about being raised from the dead, as it was pure evidence that Jesus is sent from the Father. That Jesus and our Father are one. Glory be to the Father! All great gifts come from above. Let us remember that these gifts are for his glory. So that others may believe in him and come into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Our accomplishments while they may seem to be ours, are truly for the Glory of the Living God. Hope you all had a restful Saturday, and best wishes for a productive work week.

Witnessing Grace

I hope that this finds you in good spirits. This life meets us with many obstacles, but with each of them God is ready to meet us with his grace and the invitation to trust his true character. My pastor challenged me two weeks ago to keep my ears and eyes open ready to receive a blessing. Its so easy to loose focus, when we have so many things running through our heads at once. Most often I am running ahead thinking about the future with the present playing second fiddle. Or in some instances-- so focused and wrapped up in the past or yesterday's news that I don't recognize the many opportunities around me. I failed to recognize the people God put in my path to bless and build his present kingdom. What God's desires most is fellowship with his people. We were created to worship and bring praise to his name. If God desires so much a fellowship with us, how much so does he desire us to fellowship with his people? For the longest this has been a completely foreign concept. Our relationship with God should be so personal that his overwhelming grace and mercy causes us to relate in the same way to others. Its hard to recognize the living God when we are preoccupied with ourselves, failing to see the present as his Gift and the opportunity to love without judging. Jesus came and showed mercy to the worst of sinners. Liars, adulterers, fornicators he managed to use the present opportunity to love them, but also teaching them through a walking breathing example of righteousness. Those that were willing seized this opportunity to begin a new path of abundant living." I have come that you may have life, and life more abundantly John 10:10". The worst of the worst began to witness the Grace that Jesus offers to all who will simply trust and believe him. They saw his mercy and abandoned their former ways. It was his mercy and not his harshness that caused them to behave better. It was true when Jesus came and it is true today, that what the world needs most is love, and forgiveness. Jesus is calling each of us to seize this opportunity. He calls each of us to have open eyes and ears so that we may receive the blessing of his grace!

Never in Vain

Goodness it feels so long since I have posted my last blog. With everything going on I will admit keeping up with my blog has become secondary. Not just that, I like to write from conviction and though it seems that with the recent storms I would have a relevant message to tell, in truth it has a been a challenge to unpack common themes and lessons to live by. One thing for certain is the God is incredibly good and though we were displaced refugees, he still managed to bring about order to a sometimes chaotic situation. In the aftermath of the storm, I couldn't help but think that the inconvenience of having to drive miles to get gas and a cell phone signal were paradise conditions considering the recent natural disasters in Hati and Japan. Although the devastation was severe and many lost EVERYTHING, we didn't have the threat of nuclear contamination looming over our heads. Moreover, it caused families to reconnect and neighbors to lend a helping hand. Through the storm, God had a great purpose in mind.

Never does God allow for us to go through things in vain. It's like Paul says" All things work together for the Good of those who love the lord, and are called according to his great purpose" Romans 8:28. Yesterday I was talking with a co-worker on this very subject and remembered the story of how Abraham followed God's instructions to offer his only son, Isaac, as a living sacrifice. God told Abraham to offer his son, whom he loved very much ( SOUND FAMILIAR!) Just a little bit of backstory-- Abraham and Sarah had much difficulty conceiving and were of old age when Abraham was born. God promised them that they would have a son. What I love about this story is God's intervention and foreshadowing. Right at the moment when Abraham was fully prepared to offer this great sacrifice ( imagine waiting years to attain something and then to give it away) an angel of God stepped in and told him " Do not lay a hand on the boy"Genesis 22:12 . Abraham loved his son but obeyed God and tied Isaac to a piece of wood in the similar way Jesus was nailed to the wooden cross on Calvary. God offered Jesus his only son as a living sacrifice--defeating the power of death and offering eternal life to all who believe in Jesus name. What Abraham did was not in vain. Yet it was just a preview of what was yet to come. God gave us insight into this plan long before it came to fruition. I am truly amazed at God's love for his people. He makes promises and keeps them. He gives us foresight into the future and opportunities to recognize his great love. All things work together, even those things that seem counter to our plans. Nothing is ever in vain. God is the same today forever and always. To him I give all glory, honor, and praise.

The Song I Want to Know

I know many of you have been in situations where you are driving down the road to the common destinations( work, home school or church) and suddenly the radio or should I say "satellite radio "plays a hot new track. From my experience, I recall getting super excited or giddy wanting to know every lyric to the song. The main reason for acquiring this memorization being I want to know it in order to execute my rendition at a moments notice. I want to be able to interject the passion and personal modifications to make it apart of me. The Holy Spirit spoke to me tonight as I begin thinking that this is also how I am to view the desire to know God's will and direction for my life. One of the lyrics to one of my favorite songs describes this very idea by saying "Your [God] desire is the song I want to know" I have listened and sung this particular song many times without once pondering and pausing with this line. Thinking of God's desire as song and wanting to simply know that song. How beautiful is this thought. These past few weeks, I confess, much of my attention has been placed on my desires and wants. Instead of asking " Yahweh what is it you desire?" My thoughts have been self-centered to say the least; never once asking him what he wanted." I say the Lords prayer at night and the words " Thy will be done" are never contemplated as I am rushing to get underneath the covers for a nights sleep. We are working to break the habit of hurriedly getting up in the mornings and beginning daily tasks; bypassing the opportunity to give God first fruit of my thoughts. Thankfully the Holy Spirit is here to counsel and teach us the error of our ways. I am thankful for this instruction and the ability to share this revelation with others. In essence he is saying this " Delight yourself in the Lord, and he shall give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord also, trust in Him, and He shall bring it to pass~ Psalm 37:4-5. Without first seeking to know Gods song, his desire for my day I am completely lost and prone to the inevitable attacks of the enemy. I become the one driving instead of letting God be my cruise control. Time and time again God has proven to be a steady pace with a known destination. Its often my lack of trust that disturbs the transaction. Its my unwilliness to ask for his direction. Tonight as we prepare to celebrate the gift of life given through the precious blood of Jesus, his song is the desire I want to sing. I want to sing it with passion, and I want it to be the essence of my being. Happy Holy Week. Christ is risen, Christ will come again and we are forgiven through him. This is the good news!

Risen Savior

Through all the sleepless nights.. The worrying and crying, the greatest gift I have ever received is Christ's love. I don't claim to know how god works but I know that he is and he lives. He lives he reigns and is with us always. The tactics of the enemy are clear. He deceives us into thinking thoughts of hopelessness and abandonment. The enemy causes us to forget the supernatural forces that have reigned since God created time. The kingdom lives within each of us, his power and authority to give us victory over sin. He first loved us and sent his power manifested through his son Jesus Christ. I am in adoration of him, for without him my life would perish. I stumble with trust, doubt, and fearfulness. These things leave me through grace. These things leave me through accepting his son, Christ and the gift of the holy spirit in my life. All these years I am so grateful he receives my highest praise. He forgives me when I thought he disliked me, the clear strategy of the original foe. By faith he makes me strong enough to tell others of his saving grace. A fresh spirit has arrived and dwells deep within. A new covenant for my retentive ways. Through the blood shed on Calvary we have life. Oh that others to will receive new life. A life built on solid ground free from the snares of the enemy. It takes belief and love for our God, our Christ, the Messiah, the savior. I pray for those who struggle ( for I belong to them) that we shall all come into a life of Christ being set free from bondage. Stepping into the fresh anointing and presence of our lord and savior Jesus Christ. " Therefore there is no condemnation for those in Christ. There is no execution of judgement" Romans 28:1

From Whom All Blessings Flow

Last night my sister was singing the Hymn “ Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow. At our church this is the common doxology or song of praise, as we present our tithes and offerings. Its goes like this for those unfamiliar.

Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow

Praise God all creatures here below

Praise God above ye heavenly Host

Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost

As she sang there were several thoughts going through my head. First, I realized that my sister was reflecting on her blessings. This has certainly been a year for her. She is blessed to have transitioned into motherhood and things have seemingly come together for her. She is preparing to graduate from Auburns pharmacy school next month, and it’s hard to believe that Moriah will be a year in June. A mighty long way she has come. I remember how tiny she was when she was first born. My sister and I were peering over her incubator in the Neonatal Intensive Care unit at Huntsville Hospital. She let out a little cry and both of us froze up. She lay on her stomach and my sister finally got up the courage to flip over! Today she is trotting behind us in her musical walker and has two grown in teeth! All of these blessings flowed from God.

It is wonderful to know that God is not only working things out for my good, but also recognizing his measure of grace and faithfulness in the lives of those around me. It became to real to me the different stages of our spiritual walk. Everyone is on a journey or a walk with the ultimate goal being a relationship with Jesus Christ. No one walk is greater or superior to the other. Paul says “ I say to everyone of you Do not think of yourselves more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment. “Romans 12:3. The power of God works in those around us through both his blessings and his discipline. I was reminded of that God shows no favoritism. If he disciplines me he also disciplines others and molds them into his likeness and image. For a long time I couldn’t see this. I felt I was the only one who experienced correction. Woe to me I often cried. This is not the case because the scripture clearly states “ God Disciplines those he loves “~Hebrews 12:6. The keyword in this being those meaning more than one.

In the same way he disciplines he blesses. He gives each of us a measure of his grace and faithfulness. The measures of God’s grace come in different packages. Each package fits unique to the design and purpose God has for your life. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

Dove Resting

I was reminded this morning of an experience I had a year ago. It’s one of those experiences in which I did not fully grasp or assign meaning until further reflection. It seems these last two weeks my mind has been fixed on the Holy Spirit and his presence. Truthfully I do not completely understand the concept and it is very much a work in progress. However the recent reflection on the experience has given me more insight. On the morning before I was to give my final oral presentation to culminate my graduate studies, I found a dove peacefully resting on my car. During this particular season I had spent much of my time in the revelation of Jesus Christ but had missed a critical piece, the fulfillment of his promise to send the holy sprit to help us navigate the fiery trials of this life. Jesus said “ But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have said to you.”~ John 14: 26. My initial reactions to the Dove were fear and frustration. I stood a couple of feet back and sounded my car alarm thinking it would just fly away. The Dove remained unafraid of the sounds and peacefully lay on my car. At this point, I am getting ready to complete this two year long journey called graduate school and I am too afraid to get in the vehicle. Fear attempted to paralyze me and make me late for an event I waited two years to attend. Finally courage from within swelled up and I decided to walk towards the car. I thought for sure the bird would fly away but it still remained peaceful and content. Fortunately it happened to be lying on the passenger side, so I was able to get in. When I got in the Dove remained and looked me dead in the eyes. My natural human emotions had not recognized the treasure of this moment. I began to honk and wonder if something was really wrong. I turned the car on and it still remained. I backed out of the parking space and it still remained. After driving a few feet in the parking garage it finally spread its wings and ascended to the air. When I drove away I still had the image in my mind. After I completed my presentation the spirit led me to do more research. It is important to note that I did not know it was a Dove until hours after this encounter. I remembered that the bird had white tail feathers. Sure enough I discovered that it was indeed a Dove, which is symbolic of the presence of the Holy Spirit. I realized that even through my ignorance the sprit was teaching me a lesson. It was at this moment that I became aware of the Sprit’s unique purpose to guide and instruct my steps. The Spirit was attempting to calm my fears and anxieties about my upcoming presentation. It was a symbol of peace, and had I been more vigilant could have provided comfort to my tattered nerves. The Dove should have been my example of calmness in the midst of sounding car alarms or in my case nervousness about the presentation. In the midst of all the chaos the Dove remained just as peaceful. How applicable this is right now. Nearly a year later and I face a whole new set of challenges and opportunities. I am thankful for the patience of the Spirit’s presence. I realize that I am an unwise sheep in constant need of a Shepard to guide and direct me besides still waters. One that overlooks my ignorance and is compassionate towards the limitations of my human mind. This Shepard is the spirit of the living Father and Christ dwelling within us guiding us through our seasons of sorrow, difficulty, joy, and excitement. Only through the work of the Holy Spirit are our eyes unblinded so that we are attune to those things and purposes God has ordained us to fulfill. It is only through his work do we realize our individual nothingness and God's complete authority. I am thankful that the Spirit never gives up even through complete and utter blunders. I am thankful that the Spirit bought me back to a moment of reflection, and did not let me flounce about my way. I am thankful the Spirit cares for stupid sheep to which in my own strength I qualify! Wishing everyone a Happy Monday and wonderful rest of the week!

I AM

I love the story in Exodus 3:14 when Moses asks God what to say when he tells the Israelites about deliverance from oppressive Egypt. Moses anticipated that he would receive the natural response of those who wanted to know every detail of their escape. First and foremost they would want to know the name and title of this great deliverer. The answer God gives is beautiful because he simply tells Moses to tell them " I am who I am". The simplicity and the assurance of his person and character is beyond words can describe. God does not give a dissertation of his accomplishments and he could of listed a bunch. He doesn't say I created the heaven, moon, and the very air you breathe. These great tasks would certainly move the average person like you and me to list all the great things we have done. As I read the passage the spirit led me to invaluable insight into the true character and nature of our God. He is a God who is not caught up in titles, authority, and accomplishments instead he just simply is. He is assured in his abilities and not distracted by insecurity. How wonderful it would be to have this assurance and trust. Before I read this passage the sprit brought to me this question "Kohl who are You?" In a society that frowns upon uniqueness and loves conformity this question is easily drowned out and opportunities for assurance are missed. I went to bed thinking about this question and received my answer this morning . By having the understanding of who God is through the simplicity of his answer to Moses it gives me some instruction as to how to walk out my life in Christ. I like Moses because he is prepared. He is prepared for the inevitable questions that he will receive from a skeptic and oppressed people. As I journey through this new season people will undoubtably ask and want to know who I am. Regardless of if it's a job interview or a date, people are curious about your true person and character. In order to answer these questions we have to know and be assured of our identity. Our answer to them is this" We are in Christ". The answer is simple which is what makes it so beautiful. It simply means we are assured of his forgiveness, redemption and power to save. Most times people will recognize this by our actions. They will recognize this by an assured and trusting spirit. One that is calm, relaxed and engaged. This is my true identity in Christ. It does not take a long dissertation about our accomplishments all of which were only made possible by the Living God! It is not what we have done but who we are that is of true value. God cares about my character and not my accomplishments. I am trusting in Christ and these words" My sheep listen to my voice, I know them and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can snatch them out of my hand" John 10:27

I am his child.
I may not be all that you are.
I may not be a shining star but what I am.
I thank the Lord for making me his child.
I may not be all that you are.
I may not be a shining star but what I am.
I thank the Lord for making me his child.
Thank you Lord for hearing every prayer.
Thank you Lord for just being there.
Thank you Lord.
Thank you Lord.
For I am not worthy of your love.
I may not be all that you are.
I may not be a shining star but what I am.
I thank the Lord for making me his child.
So don’t use me or abuse me for I am his child.
Don’t teast me or mistreat me for I am still his child.
You can even talk about me but I am still his child.

Just the Beginning

Well I officially made it through trying 25! I want to thank all those who stayed with me during the journey. The journey is not over, but I do feel as if one chapter has closed and a new one is beginning. I still feel like Paul when he says " Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."~ Philippians 3:13. In these last 25 years God has given me many tests and challenges that have equipped with the knowledge to meet other challenges and opportunities. I am learning that learning is a continuous process. What you learn at 25 is the foundation for what you will learn at 26. The thirst for learning should never be quenched, because there is always something new to learn. For me, when I completed my master's program last May I almost fell into the notion that I was somehow finished and had accomplished all I needed to. This couldn't be further from the truth. In actuality it was just the beginning and the foundation for the next challenge. The same is true regarding my thirst for biblical knowledge and truth. I have not learned everything and will never know the complete mind of God, but what he has revealed is the cornerstone for continued learning and searching to meet those purposes he has ordained for me since ancient times. I am a huge Kurt Carr fan, and there is one song that is particularly fitting during this season. The song is titled " Just the Beginning". If you have a moment please check out the lyrics. Until next time, peace and blessings!

The True Definition of Wealth

Before I begin with the topic I just want to say that its not my intention to sound as if I know it all or have attained complete knowledge. I am ever learning and growing, and these blogs are opportunities to share what I am learning with others.I was speaking with a friend a few weeks back, and our conversation inspired me to write this entry. We were talking about true riches and wealth, but not in the concepts of worldly structures and constructs. In our culture it is extremely easy to get consumed by those things that at the end of the day have no value and will perish to dust. The clothes we wear and the cars we drive have value, but they don't add to our spiritual substance which is in essence life. These things are simply a means to an end. The assurance of knowing Christ and the peace that comes with accepting his love and God's forgiveness IS the greatest treasure anyone can gain "And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst" ~ John 6:13
A person who knows Christ, his authority and peace is wealthy. Instead of focusing on earthly wealth that at the end of the day as no value, why not focus on attaining true wealth found in a relationship with Jesus Christ and his people? Truthfully over these last few months I have lost sight of this. In my ambition to be " successful" I was missing these elements that bring so much peace and stability to my life. In the midst of uncertainty its a struggle to keep your eyes on the prize. Christ is the prize and promises to restore us if only we would look to him. I am so grateful that God places friends and mentors in our lives to bring us back to the reality of his deep love for us, and his living presence. As I embark on this next chapter,the following are the key concepts I hope to remember from this current season:

Peace of mind is priceless

Knowing my true identity in Jesus Christ is priceless.

Recognizing my dependency and constant need of Jesus is priceless.

Trust is priceless.

Knowing that we were all made and formed by the Creator for a purpose is priceless.

Knowing your true purpose (the one God wills you to do) is priceless.

True Inheritance

As many of you know, my grandmother passed exactly seven months ago. When those we love pass away its challenge to let go while still being mindful of the rich legacies they left behind. I recognize that God places people strategically in our lives. God is the master of aligning our needs with resources and opportunities. Granny is very much alive in spirit. She continues to be God's instrument as she taught me how to nurture and care for others. This is a reality I did not fully comprehend until last weekend during my niece's baptism celebration. Granny has left us all with a rich inheritance. If she taught me nothing during these last 25 years, it was how to nurture and care for the new generations sprouting up before my eyes. As I look at my younger cousins, and my niece I realize that I am to pass on that nurturing spirit Granny left behind. This is a rich inheritance one who's value is not measured in dollars and wordily wealth. This inheritance is priceless.I am thankful that God strategically places people in our lives to provide nurture and support. This life has many obstacles and challenges, but true love allows us to withstand the present difficulties. Love never fails. A love first shown through Christ gave us light in a dying world. What inheritance will you choose to leave behind? ~If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
1 Corinthians 13:2

On New Things and True Love

Another valentines day has come and gone. By now the chocolates are gone, and the flowers are starting to wilt. In the past valentines day has mostly been a dread because it forced me to recognize my single status. This is surely a season of change and transition. Old things pass away because these last two years I have really begun to embrace my time alone. This season of singleness has allowed me to recognize true love. A love so deep that he would leave his riches in heaven to come to earth to rescue me by taking my penalty on the cross. This is the perfect romance that we see on television and read about in novels. Jesus is that handsome knight that comes to save his princess from distress and destruction. We are so dearly loved that Christ would come to earth and suffer so much agony for our redemption. There is no greater love than this--that he he would lay down his life for us. With new seasons come change. As God takes me into new seasons, opportunities and relationships my hope is that I remember the lessons learned during this current season. The most important lesson is that Christ is my great love. While he places opportunities and people in my life he is the giver of all perfect gifts. " Love never gives up, never looses faith is always hopeful and endures through every circumstance"~ 1 Corinthians 7.

We Shall Overcome

Well this has definitely been a week to say the least. I am ecstatic the weekend is here and I am able to relax and close the book on this week's chapter. There were many challenges and my faith encountered numerous attacks. By the grace of God, and his perfect faithfulness I was able to endure. I can honestly say that God's spirit was personally present this week as he provided me the courage to confront those obstacles that were in my way. Fear is something I struggled with this week. Fear of the mistakes of my past, and fear of the events to come in the future. In the midst of hardship I found a renewed faith and spirit.  Through this test, God allowed me to really stand firm on his promises of forgiveness, reconciliation, and a personal relationship through Christ.  The storm clears and there is finally sunshine with the former dirt and grime washed clean. There is no need of rehashing past events or worrying about the future.  As the apostle Paul writes "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,  I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus ~ Phillipians 3:13-14. 

I guess an appropriate theme song for this week is the old negro spiritual "We shall Overcome".  We will overcome our fears only through our faith in a sovereign and omnipresent God. One who knows the issues of our hearts and intervenes on our behalf.  God certainly intervened this week as he guided me through treacherous waters.

Daily Bible Verse

Provided by Christ Notes Bible Search

All the Glory and Fully Equipped

Many of you have seen this picture for quite a while now! I took this picture last year from the steps of my parent's back porch ( since then my little camera has quit on me :-( !) I remember thinking how exquisite the view was. How beautiful is God's creation? God's great works and power are evident; all we have to do is look to the sky. In my bible study class we are studying the book of Isaiah. He gives a similar instruction for a people suffering and beginning to wonder if God was far off and distant. He tells them " Lift up your eyes on high, and see who has created these things"~Isaiah 40:26. God is here and this picture is just one conformation of his presence in our daily lives. Jesus also comforts his disciples by promising them "Yes  I am with you always, until the end of time"` Matthew 20:28.  Sometimes our life circumstances seem so big, but in reality God has handled much larger tasks. He brings the sun to rise and set so surely he can handle my minute concerns. I confess at times I become so consumed with the problem and the circumstance, failing to look at the evidence of his creation that is always present.  The glory of our God's works, and the incomprehensible details of his power and understanding are to give us all confidence and encouragement that he will work everything out. For those he calls, he has fully equipped! I don't know about you but I needed this word and encouragement in this present season.  Wishing everyone a wonderful week!

Miss Independent????

This has truly been a trying week, but thank God he saw me through! While this week had difficulties and challenges it taught me a valuable lesson. I realized this week that I had forgotten how to depend of God for his daily touch. I had forgotten what it was like to feel his real presence working as he wakes me up and starts me on my day. In the hustle of our daily activities it is easy to become focused primarily on the daily tasks we must complete. We begin our days with the worry often never once looking to God to ease our anxiety and steady our emotions required to accomplish tasks. In my efforts to become independent and handle things through my own strength, I had forgotten how to cast my cares on the Lord as he promises to sustain my every need. " Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall~ Psalm 55:22  I will never be truly independent, as I will always need his help and guidance. Even in moments of great joy and excitement I must remember that all gifts are from God and are products of his invisible hands. In the coming months I expect to spread my wings and leave the present nest. While it will appear that I am asserting more independence, truthfully this will be a time of great dependence as I will need God's daily touch more than ever to tackle unfamiliar territory. 

Be on Guard

I hope you all are having a blessed day. I am so thankful that I am able to share with you all today. It is a rainy day here in Huntsville. For some reason we have been conditioned to associate rain with gloom. I had to check my attitude this morning, because I almost fell trap to such flawed thinking. No matter rain or shine, all days are given to us from the Lord and we are to rejoice an be glad in it. Through the hardest circumstances, we must still ask God for the strength and spirit to praise him with hearts of thanksgiving. To be honest today I felt myself slipping into the dark side of negativity and self pity. Then something divine happened shortly after lunchtime. I began to have a conversation with a friend over gchat about Jesus and his awesome power in our lives. Truly all things are possible with God, and I am so excited with what he is doing in the lives of those around me.  Prior to this conversation, my mind had been in several other places primarily focused on worldly dreams and aspirations. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, this conversation shifted my focus back to ultimate aspiration and goal for my life which is to one day meet him face to face without fear of condemnation. "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you^[free from the law of sin and death~ Romans 8: 1-3.  I was reminded today to be on guard. It was so easy for my thoughts to slip to that dark side. I was getting impatient and angry that some things have not yet come to pass. Our mind is our most precious asset and it's a constant battle to stay on the positive especially in the midst of uncomfortable circumstances. To be on guard, means I need to limit the amount of trash entering my ears. The music I listen to, and the shows I watch can feed my mind with either negative or positive thinking. I would like those thoughts that encourage and keep me centered on the purpose God has set for my life. I have to filter all those things that attempt to derail and undermine his will. I know it is hard to limit the trash especially when you are around others who harbor negative thoughts and feelings. The only way to kill this spirit, Jesus demands, is love and kindness. As I continue on this week, my goal is to limit the trash and guard my thoughts.  Each morning I wake up, my goal is to show God my ultimate appreciation by giving him my highest praise because he is worthy of it all.Thats it for today folks! Wishing everyone a wonderful rest of the week.

The Power of the Tongue

Goodness time has lapsed since my last posting! Much has happened over these last few days. The lack of civil discourse in this country over the last few years hit the final nail in the preverbal coffin Saturday, leaving six dead in Arizona. Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, among those shot, is showing miraculous progress. This tragedy has has invariably sparked conversation about the often viral rhetoric filling the airways from both sides of the isle  The words we speak, while they are so easy to articulate can have damning consequences. In this particular season of my life, I am reminded of this and it challenges me to be a constant guardian of my tongue. Without doubt, at times I am tempted beyond measure not to show restraint and self control over the words I speak. With age, I am realizing it is absolutely necessary to this, because once words are said it is impossible to take them back. Of course once we realize the err of our ways we can apologize for those words, but the damage and hurt will linger. When I experience the temptation to unleash hurtful words, I look to the scriptures for some practical advice to apply. The book of Proverbs makes a powerful statement about words and their ability to define our actions and circumstances." Death and life are in the power of the tongue." ~ Proverbs 18:21. James goes further in the New Testament. He gives a powerful inditement to Christians when he says " Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein of their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless." ~ James 1:26 NIV.  I encourage anyone who like I struggles to guard the tongue, to read further into the book of James. I have found his words to be instructive and applicable to this current season. Bottom line : Our tongues have the ability to be a force for good or a force of destruction. Moving forward after the horrific events of Arizona, it is my hope that we take the time to reflect on the words we use. Instead of finger pointing and blaming others let us start with the person in the mirror. Change begins within ourselves.

Living in Expectation

It's officially 2011 and it seems the days are already flying! I woke up this morning ready to face my first work day in the new year. I began with my usual scripture reading. It was taken from the book of Isaiah: "But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint"~Isaiah 40:31. Although at times I admit I get impatient, my scripture encouraged me to keep on hoping and expecting God to do great things.  While I aim to keep things positive and biblically based, the reality of the days ahead are difficult and challenging. There are some days I struggle to stay encouraged and positive. My hopes and dreams are solidified, but sometimes it seems that  I am moving at snails pace to see their actualization. I received some encouraging advice today from a friend. She suggested that I write a blog about living in expectation of what God is getting ready to do. Instead of focusing on the "when" she basically suggested that I focus on the "now". If I am truly expecting God to do great things then I must live in preparation. While I am waiting for things to unfold, I can certainly use the time to prepare. For example, one of my life goals is to raise godly children. God-willing I want them to be firmly rooted in the foundation and gospel of Jesus Christ so that they will also train their children in the way of the LORD. It might be far ways off, but I want to prepare myself to train my children in the right way. To do this I need to know the word and understand it's real life application. So while trust my child bearing days are a ways off ( gotta get married first hehehe), I can spend this time in the word so when the time does come I am fully prepared to see this goal come to fruition. Another one my goals is to expand my service in Christian Education. God has given me so much talent and knowledge I would like to give this back to him in service. There are present opportunities available now to see this goal realized. Bottom line: There are things we can do now as we await what God is getting ready to do.  Although it is very easy to become so concerned with the when its imperative that we use this waiting time to prepare for all his abundant provisions.  Live in expectation and know God is going to come through! Happy Monday and wishing you all a wonderful rest of this week.