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OK God, ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!! Nov 3, 2007 9:23 am
Mood: Dazed and Confused, 650 Views
Most Gracious and Loving Father,
I come before you today, broken and full of sorrow. Your word says "I will not allow more to come on you than what you are able to bear." But, this time, you have pushed it to the very limit, am tinkering on the edge. The jar which contains my tears, is overflowing and I can find no more to shed. It seems the closer I draw to You, the more intense the fiery darts of my enemy. First, a week ago, I discover that the man that I thought loved me, was full of deception and betrayal. I did all I knew to do that was right, I forgave him, continued to ask for your blessings upon him, kept myself in Your Word in in prayer, lifting up my needs and the needs of others. Then, yesterday, I took my beloved dog, Cutie, to the vet for a routine teeth cleaning, only to receive a call that she was dead, for no apparent reason. My last physical, tangible expression of joy in my life, as she greeted me with unconditional love and that look that said "I missed you" everyday as I returned home. Now, my house is empty and silent, and I keep waiting for her to jump in my lap. Then, just when I thought I could take no more, I went outside this morning, only to find that someone has smashed the window of my new car, I haven't even had it for a month. Now police reports and repair bills, what more can I endure? Don't you know that my name is not Job? Oh Father, I have cried out your name literally hundreds of times this week, and I cannot hear you. Where are you? Your Word says "No weapon formed against me shall prosper", but just look! I don't understand, is this a test? And, if so, will I pass? Or is it some punishment for something I have done in my past? Are you allowing these things to draw me closer to You? I could sure think of other ways to accomplish that! So many questions, without answers. Nevertheless, I will trust You. Regardless of my circumstances, I know that "I walk by faith, and not by sight." I know that You can "turn it all around, and make it for my good." I will practice all that I've preached in my blogs about what You can do with my pain. I will rejoice in You always, for good, whether apparent, or not. "Greater is He that is within me, than he that is in the world." I understand that it is now, that You are carrying me, only one set of footprints in the sand. I know that You "will exalt me, in due time." I will continue to "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, and His mercy and lovingkindness endures forever". Show me Your mercy now, as I need it, strengthen me with Your victorious right hand, and fill me with the peace that passes understanding. I believe in Your Word and pray that You will use my pain, to bring glory to Jesus, and I ask it in His name, Amen

And, for any of you so inclined, I covet your prayers.
15 Comments
All Ladies on BC-BEWARE!!! Oct 31, 2007 6:54 pm
Mood: Cautious, 837 Views
ALL LADIES BEWARE!!! THERE ARE ENEMIES ON THIS SITE, ROAMING AROUND LIKE ROARING LIONS, SEEKING WHOM THEY MAY DEVOUR!!!


I just got an email from a scammer, identical to the last one I received, a couple of months ago, WORD FOR WORD!! If you get an email saying how beautiful you are, how God created you for him, how if he sent your picture to heaven, all the angels would be ashamed, BEWARE! HE IS NOT REAL!

Oh yes, his photo is gorgeous, and poor thing, he is widowed (how original), dont fall for it! If you try to get to know him, you'll find out he's not even in the US, as he claims to be. You would think they would at least change the words in their email a little, so as not to be recognized.

Please, I implore you, for your own safety, verify everyone! Please read my blog "Deception" and all the comments and advice from other long-time BC members, dont be deceived by these men. If they fall in love with you quickly, want you to IM right away, tell you all the sweet words you long to hear, BEWARE!!!

I rebuke the deceivers who come here, preying on the vulnerable, in the mighty name of Jesus Christ! I pray that I can save just one woman from what I have experienced from these scammers.
May our gracious and loving Father bless you with wisdom and discernment!
Terrie
19 Comments
SAINTS, PROTECT YOURSELVES!!! Oct 31, 2007 7:11 am
Mood: VICTORIOUS!!!, 535 Views
We have weapons at our disposal, to have the victory over every circumstance!!


After reading some blogs this morning, I came across "Bayonetts" by Aslan17, and was stirred in my spirit. That led my study to the book of Ephesians, and was reminded, once again, that we have weapons of warfare, available to us for the battles that we fight on a daily basis. So often, we criticize and condemn the people in our life and in the world, who we believe to be sinful and evil. But Ephesians 6:12 tells us that we DO NOT fight against flesh and blood, but against powers and spirits. They just work through people. We have safety, protection, and power against those spirits, if we will only use them. Please read and meditate on the following scriptures, beginning in Ephesians 6:10

In conclusion, be strong in the Lord, be empowered through your union with Him; draw your strength from Him, that strength which His boundless might provides.
PUT ON God's whole armor, the armor of a heavy-armed soldier which God supplies, that you may be able successfully to stand up against all the strategies and deceits of the devil.
For we are not wrestling with flesh and blood, contending only with physical opponents, but against the despotisms, against the powers, against the master spirits, who are the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly, supernatural sphere.
Therefore, put on God's complete armor, that you may be able to resist and stand your ground on the evil day of danger, and, having done all the crisis demands, to stand firmly in your place.
Stand, therefore, hold your ground, having tightened the belt of truth around your loins and having the breastplate of integrity and of moral rectitude and right standing with God.
And having shod your feet in preparation to face the enemy with the firm-footed stability, the promptness, and the readiness, produced by the Gospel of peace.
Lift up over all the covering shield of saving faith, upon which you can quench all the flaming missiles of the wicked one.
And take the helmet of salvation and the sword that the Spirit wields, which is the Word of God.
Pray at all times, on every occasion, in every season, in the Spirit, with all manner of prayer and entreaty. To that end, keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceeding in behalf of all the saints, God's consecrated people.

HALLELUJAH!!!


I don't know about you, but that strengthens my spirit and encourages me, BIG TIME! To know that we have been given such power against all the trials we may face, all the evil that comes against us, whether in word or deed. And, did you notice that for all of the armor mentioned, there is nothing for our backside? How interesting! To me, this implies that we are never to turn and run from the things that come against us, but to face them head-on. But, having all of this power won't do us a bit of good, unless we utilize it. How do we do this? First, we must believe it and receive it. Secondly, I think we must "put it on", every day, just as we put on our clothes. To verbally put them on and speak these weapons over our every day battles.

I am so grateful for BC and pray God's glory to be manifested here. I pray also for the needs of every member. But, only you can walk in the power that has been given you. I pray that you receive it and put it on.

May each of you receive the answers to your prayers, the desires of your hearts, and all the protection that God has given to you, in Jesus mighty and powerful name! Amen and Amen
5 Comments
What do we do with our pain? Part 2 Oct 30, 2007 6:37 am
Mood: Blessed beyond measure!, 576 Views
Every trial is an opportunity!


What an awesome God we serve! Every day, I am reminded of His goodness and mercy. I am constantly amazed by His purpose and His will. He certainly DOES use the foolish things and people in this life, to confound the wise. What the enemy means for our harm, God will turn around and make for our good, and for the good of someone else.

What does God do with our pain?


Never, in a million years, could I have imagined that God would take the most painful experiences in my life, rape, drug abuse, homelessness, attempted suicide, physical abuse, 3 abortions, and losing a sister to AIDS, and turn them around for my good, and for the benefit and edification of others. But, that's exactly what He did.

Through the pain of enduring these trials, God created in me, a heart of empathy and compassion for others going through similar circumstances. In 2005, I set up a non profit organization called After the Rain, and dedicated it to the glory of Jesus. Since then, I have witnessed the miracle working power of God, transform the lives of over 200 women. Not only has He given them beauty for their ashes, but He has used their tests, to become their testimonies, and their mess to become their ministries. In their healing and restoration, I have seen them plant seeds in the lives of others, to give back, what has been so graciously given to them. What a ripple effect! Who will ever know how many lives have been and will be touched for His glory?

How will YOU allow God to use your pain?


In reading the blogs here for months now, I am keenly aware that many are hurting. But I admonish and encourage each of you to remain faithful and patient, for your miracle is on the way! Jesus sacrificed His life for your victory and abundant life. And maybe, just maybe, if you are willing, your pain could be the seed to affect the broken, hopeless lives of others.

Are you willing?


I pray that you are, because it has blessed me, beyond words to describe, how God used my pain to profoundly impact the lives of hurting people. And I know that I know, He can and will do the same for you, because He is no respector of persons.

May you be blessed in your willingness!
7 Comments
A Question-What do we do with our pain? Oct 28, 2007 6:35 pm
Mood: Hopeful & Optimistic, 659 Views
IS ANYONE SUFFERING?

The physical aspect aside, the definition of pain, mental or emotional, is as follows:

PAIN-the distress or suffering caused by great anxiety, anguish, grief, or disappointment; a sensation of hurting or strong discomfort; the feeling of punishment or penalty.

The Bible contains a multitude of scriptures that refer to pain. In my quest to come up with a number, I was led to my trusty Thesaurus, and was somewhat amazed at all the words associated with pain.

acute discomfort, suffering, ache, misery, pang, throe, twinge, distress, hurt, agony, torment, affliction, torture, upset, wound, excruciate, crucify, anguish, sorrow, grief.
WOW!!!
And these don't include the many words that can lead to causing pain, such as:

betrayal, deception, lonliness, rejection, unfaithfulness, disappointment, slander, etc, etc, etc

Needless to say, my quest to count how many scriptures deal with pain, was short-lived. It could take a month to look them all up, so, suffice it to say, there are literally hundreds, perhaps even thousands of references to pain and it's synonyms. Do you wonder why that is? In the reasonings of my over-analytical mind, I did. My humble opinion? I have always believed that the Bible is God's Handbook for Life, and let's face it, life is full of pain. Is there anyone reading these words that HAS NOT felt pain, in one way, shape, or form? I think not. It's no wonder that God addressed the issue so frequently.
So, what do we do with our pain? How do we endure it? What can we do to ease our pain? What are the Biblical admonitions? Are there advantages to being in pain? Too many questions? lol Yes, I agree, and it could very well take a series of postings to answer them all, and I petition each of you to offer your advice and suggestions.
I am currently in a great deal of pain, and well-wishing loved ones have advised me to "try not to think about it" or "just let it go". I appreciate their intentions, but how do you do that?
How do you not think about it when something as simple as a single word or even a sound, can trigger that overwhelming ache in the middle of your chest? Or the panic of not being able to catch your breath? How do you not think about it when sleep eludes you for days and focus and concentration are unattainable?
Prayer is the #1 answer to how to ease our pain AND the advantage of experiencing pain. Prayer draws us closer to God, in our dependence on Him and in our trust in Him. It allows the Comforter, to comfort and makes tremendous power available.
Praise and worship, although difficult at times of extreme pain, takes the focus off of self, and places it on the God Who loves us so much, He saves every tear. It reminds us of His lovingkindness, mercy, and compassion. It forces us to contemplate and be grateful for every blessing He has given us, and fills us with the peace that passes understanding.
Reading the Bible is another method for easing our pain, and many times I am led to the book of James, only 5 short chapters, but full of wise and inspiring words. This week, the Holy Spirit consistently reminded me of James 1:2-4, Count it all joyful when enveloped in trials and tribulations. Be assured that the trial and proving of your faith, brings out endurance, steadfastness, and patience.
The first time I read this, I thought it was an oxymoron. Count it all joyful? But, since then, I have learned that the only way to acquire endurance, steadfastness, and patience, is to develop it during the hard times. There's no other way to obtain these qualities, than to suffer. The Bible is filled with countless words of edification and encouragement, and can lift your spirit, no matter how low you feel.
Finally, I would like to offer some practical applications that will help to ease your pain. For me, writing a blog about it has been very therapeutic, hahaha It also helps me to reach outside of myself and offer assistance to others. This will bless you more than it will bless them. There are dozens of ways to accomplish this, pick one that suits you and be a blessing. What you make happen for others, God will make happen for you.
Next, count your blessings, sit down and make a list of every blessing in your life, if you think hard enough, you can come up with many. Meditate on them, read them over and over, then thank God, out loud, for each and every one. An attitude of gratitude is extremely rehabilitating, when broken.
Lastly, it really helps me to laugh. It may sound absurd to laugh in the midst of suffering, but just try it. The scripture in Proverbs that states "Laughter does a heart good, like a medicine", is so true! The physical act of laughing releases peptides, or endorphins in the brain, which have a pain relieving effect and will lift your mood better than any drug. Watch a funny video or comedian, read funny stories, you can even go on the internet and read jokes by the hundreds.
It was my prayer, prior to writing this, that my words would be annointed, and provide hope to all who are suffering, as I am. Jesus sacrificed His ALL, so that we could have life, and have it in abundance, to the full, until it overflows. We may have to go through pain in our lives, and go through the valley of the shadow of death, but we don't have to remain there.
May our gracious and loving Father soothe every suffering soul, fill you with His joy, and give you beauty for your ashes.
I covet your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions, as it may help those, like me, who are suffering.
Thank you, and God bless you all!
9 Comments
Should Babies Be Baptized??? Aug 24, 2008 4:31 am
535 Views
The way I approach infant baptism is in this way: The Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 7:9:

"Once I was alive apart from law; but when the commandment came, sin sprang to life and I died.

What did Paul mean when he said, "Once I was alive apart from law"? It is obvious that Paul was spiritually alive before he reached a certain age when he discovered and understood the law. From this Scripture we see that it is possible to be alive spiritually while you are a child. Paul is talking about the age of accountability. Before you are accountable, God suspends the sentence of spiritual death, such as in Paul’s case.

For example, in most countries if a child commits a crime before a certain age, the law may suspend the sentence or simply lower the penalty. God is no different. It would be a miscarriage of justice for God to damn a soul to hell or at the very least, keep an infant out of heaven just because the parents never baptized him or her.

This brings us to another question: At what age does a person become accountable for his sins? I had always wanted to know a clear answer. Most ministers simply say, "Well, the age is different for everyone, and only God knows when that age occurs." That answer, however, makes God sound arbitrary. How would you like your country to have such ambiguous laws? Of course you wouldn’t, and most countries clearly state the age.

Does the Bible state the age of accountability? I believe it does. In the Old Testament, there was a type of baptism called "ceremonial washings." These washings cleansed people from their sins. At what age, then, did an Israelite first get washed? . Here is the passage that most directly states when a person should be baptized:

"When a man has an emission of semen, he must bathe his whole body with water, and he will be unclean till evening…"

"When a woman has her regular flow of blood, the impurity of her monthly period will last seven days, and anyone who touches her will be unclean till evening.
Lev 15:16 and 19

As we see in Leviticus, it appears that a child was never washed in water for ceremonial cleansing until the age of procreation. When the girl had her menstrual cycle, she was first washed, which is the type of baptism. When the boy had an emission of semen, he was also washed. Noticed, the first time a Jewish boy or girl was washed was when they could procreate. This is the age of accountability, which is around twelve or thirteen. I believe that this is the time a person should be baptized, if they are old enough to understand asking Jesus to be their Savior and Lord, and forgive their sins.

Today, in Jewish tradition, the time of manhood is celebrated at the age of thirteen; it is called bar mitzvah. Some Reform and Conservative synagogues have a similar ceremony for girls called bas mitzvah. The age of procreation corresponds to the age of accountability, and it makes sense that it does. Think about it: why should a child be accountable for his spiritual "life" if he is not old enough to make a "life"? However, once a person is able to procreate and give life, then his life is made accountable to him.

Of course, this is only my opinion. I believe that baptism is a public profession of our faith, and we cannot profess what we don't comprehend.

What do you think? If you believe that babies should be baptized, please explain why.
Yes, they are born in sin and need to be baptized
Yes, so if they die before accountability, they can go to heaven
No, they're not old enough to make that decision
No, baptism should accompany a public profession of faith
Not sure, really don't know
Don't know and really don't care
Other-Please explain
I have an opinion, I just don't want to answer your silly poll
I don't have an opinion because I'm clueless
I'm too shy to say and would like to remain anonymous
35 Comments, 16 votes
What Are You Looking For In The Blogs??? Jul 23, 2008 2:36 am
482 Views
We are all gathered here in this place for different reasons. For me, it's about friendship, fellowship, and to be a blessing to others. It is my opinion that bloggers are the best group of people that exist, and I have been so blessed to be able to meet many of you. Please tell me what things you are looking for in reading the blogs. Please feel free to mention more than one, or add something I've left out. (We only get 10 options) lol
Friendship and Fellowship
Encouragement
Laughter
Prayer Partners
Instruction
Love
A way to pass your free time
Healing
Motivation to go deeper in the things of God
All of the above
13 Comments, 16 votes
SUPERBOWL-The Game or The Commercials? Feb 3, 2008 7:23 am
645 Views
Super Bowl ads are at an all-time high-$2.7 Million for 30 seconds! That's 1/2 minute!! 90% were sold out the first week in November.
Advertisers say it is the biggest marketing event of the year, with over 93 million people watching, last year.
I saw a brief preview of some of the ads and they looked hilarious!!
So, what do you think, the game, or the commercials? What will you be watching the Superbowl for?

PS For those of you so inclined, who are you cheering for?

Cheering for the Giants? Yeah! (I always cheer for the underdogs, lol)

Cheering for the Patriots?

Tell me, enquiring minds want to know!
The game, of course, I use the restroom at commercials
The commercials, who cares who wins or loses?
Both, I don't leave the couch for 3 hours.
Neither, I have other plans, but I'll be recording it
Niether, I hate footballs, commercials, and stupid polls, grrrrrr!!!
Other, please explain
14 Comments, 8 votes
SUPERBOWL-The Game or The Commercials? Feb 2, 2008 9:16 am
425 Views
Super Bowl ads are at an all-time high-$2.7 Million for 30 seconds! 90% were sold out the first week in November.
Advertisers say it is the biggest marketing event of the year, with over 93 million people watching, last year.
I saw a brief preview of some of the ads and they looked hilarious!!
So, what do you think, the game, or the commercials?

PS For those of you so inclined, who are you cheering for?
The game, of course, I use the restroom at commercials.
The commercials, who cares who wins or loses?
Both-I never leave the couch for 3 hours!
Neither-I have plans-but I will be recording it, lol.
Neither-I don't like football or laughing or stupid polls! grrrrrrr!!!!!
Other-Please explain
Cheering for the Giants? Yeah!
Cheering for the Patriots?
1 comment, 3 votes
What's YOUR New Year's Resolution? Please Respond Dec 28, 2007 3:27 am
606 Views
Personally, I do not make New Year's resolutions, why bother? However, I do believe in setting new goals for each New Year.
For 2008, I aspire to a deeper walk with Him, more intimate than ever before.

What's YOUR New Year's Resolution?
I have many, where should I start?
I only have one or two, but I am committed to keeping them
I have none, you don't make any, you don't break any
I don't need a resolution, I'm perfect as I am
I'm asking God to reveal what I should do to improve my life
Resolutions are a waste of time
I resolve not to resolve
I want to lose weight/eat better/exercise more
I want to lay down a bad habit
Other-please elaborate
28 Comments, 18 votes
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