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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/1/2008 10:32:12 AM
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JustJeannie
Posts: 5182
Joined: 6/14/2007
From: the state of confusion
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Thanks for the push, STinKerdoodles. I don't know how much insight I will offer anyone, but this is really what I feel like I have been needing!!!
_____________________________
Jeannie
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/1/2008 7:30:41 PM
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kj88il
Posts: 1642
Joined: 3/3/2008
From: IL (NW Central)
Status: offline
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I had a pretty stinky day at work.....so thought the best thing I could do was go over Prov 1 again....using the New International Version this time (my fav).
MY KEY:
Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
Bold, black text is what especially stood out to me.
New International Version (NIV)
My personal notes
I hope y'all feel free to add your own insights! I know I can speak for Jeannie...we'd LOVE if y'all would share with us, too!!!! 
quote:
ORIGINAL: kj88il
Chapter 1
The Purpose of Proverbs...or Prologue: Purpose and Theme
1:2 For gaining wisdom and being instructed;
for understanding insightful sayings;
1:2 For attaining wisdom and discipline;
for understanding words of insight;
1:3 for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life;
doing what is right and just and fair;
I like the use of the word "discipline" here. I find myself often praying for discipline in my spiritual life..and in many other areas of my life (which we won't go into here, thank you! lol)
1: 5 a wise man will listen and increase his learning,
and a discerning man will obtain guidance -
1:5 let the wise listen and add to their learning,
and let the discerning get guidance -
Avoid the Path of the Violent...or Warning Against Enticement
1:8 Listen, my son, to your father's instruction,
and don't reject your mother's teaching.
1:8 Listen, my son, to your father's instruction
and do not forsake your mother's teaching.
I like forsake here, too..."to give up, renounce." Not just rejecting...but not giving up, either. Because learning...and making the right choice...is HARD!!
1:10 My son, if sinners entice you,
don't be persuaded.
1:10 My son, if sinners entice you,
do not give in to them.
Don't you find yourself doubting your choices sometimes...and just giving-in to what someone else wants? Maybe if we had a deeper wisdom we wouldn't be so easily swayed.
1:15 my son, don't travel that road with them,
or set foot on their path,
1:16 because their feet run toward trouble
and they hurry to commit murder.
1:15 my son, do not go along with them,
do not set foot on their paths;
1:16 for their feet rush into sin,
they are swift to shed blood.
1:18 ...they attack their own lives.
1:19 Such are the paths of all who pursue gain dishonestly;
it takes the lives of those who profit from it.
1:18 These men lie in wait for their own blood;
they waylay only themselves!
1:19 Such is the end of all who go after ill-gotten gain;
it takes away the lives of those who get it.
Wisdom's Plea...or Warning Against Rejecting Wisdom
1:23 If you turn to my discipline,
then I will pour out my spirit on you
and teach you my words.
1:23 If you had responded to my rebuke,
I would have poured out my heart to you
and made my thoughts known to you.
(But to those who refused, didn't pay attention, neglected Wisdom's counsel and correction...)
1:28 Then they will call me, but I won't answer;
they will search for me, but won't find me.
1:29 Because they hated knowledge,
didn't choose to fear the Lord,
1:30 were not interested in my counsel,
and rejected all my correction,
1:31 they will eat the fruit of their way
and be glutted with their own schemes.
1:32 For the waywardness of the inexperienced will kill them,
and the complacency of fools will destroy them.
1:33 But whoever listens to me will live securely
and be free from the fear of danger.
1:28 Then they will call to me but I will not answer;
they will look for me but will not find me.
1:29 Since they hated knowledge
and did not choose to fear the Lord,
1:30 since they would not accept my advice
and spurned my rebuke,
1:31 they will eat the fruit of their ways
and be filled with the fruit of their schemes.
1:32 For the waywardness of the simple will kill them,
and the complacency of fools will destroy them;
1:33 but whoever listens to me will live in safety
and be at ease, without fear of harm.
I wanted to know the exact definition of complacency. Dicionary.com defines it as "a feeling of quiet pleasure or security, often while unaware of some potential danger, defect, or the like; self-satisfaction or smug satisfaction with an existing situation, condition, etc."
"Burying your head in the sand,'"or accepting the status quo is not only lazy, it is unwise. We all need to be prepared...but without wisdom, we will not be best prepared. We need to study God's Word and apply His teachings to our everyday life so that when we do have to make difficult choices, we can choose wisely.
I like the NIV use of the word "simple." It goes with what I said above, about being lazy...taking the easy way out...either because you don't know....or you don't want to make the effort to learn..in order to make a better-informed, intelligent, WISE decision.
I also like the term "and be at ease." It brings to mind peace.....which is another thing I pray fervently for. I worry and fret when I don't know what to do...or when I fear I've made the wrong choice. Thank God for His Word...and the opportunity to dig in and learn more...and make a better decision the next time!
Thank You, Father, for giving us Your Teacher. Help me to apply what I learn in these scriptures...that I may live a more peaceful life because of the wisdom You impart to me here. And thank You for friends from whom I can learn, too. May we edify one another, Lord.
_____________________________
Kimberly (aka KJ)
Shifing Gears w/ Kimberly
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/2/2008 7:27:03 AM
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kj88il
Posts: 1642
Joined: 3/3/2008
From: IL (NW Central)
Status: offline
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today's devotion...
Joy To The World
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Uh-oh, my son had begun the dreaded potty dance. He had gotten so engrossed in the beautiful, giant, Christmas ornaments suspended from the shopping mall ceiling that he totally ignored his almost 4 year-old bladder. It was warning him to get to the potty. We were only seconds away from an accident, without a change of clothes.
Doctors had recently given my little son a great big label: Pervasive Developmentally Delayed. Simple translation: he learns differently than most and things that “typically developing” children are able to do easily, he finds challenging. For example, being able to recognize that his body needs to go to the potty and communicating his need to me. I had 20 other things to accomplish in the mall and I was not prepared for this.
Thanks to a mother’s ability to quickly maneuver through crowds and leap tall mounds of Christmas presents in a single bound, we made it to the restroom just in time.
Frustration began to overwhelm my heart. I wasn’t just overwhelmed by the pressure of the things I had on my to-do list, but also by my son’s struggle with being able to recognize and verbally acknowledge his needs. Lord, will he ever be able to tell me what is going on in his head? How are we going to reach him?
As we were washing our hands, he suddenly began to sing with all his heart, “Joy to the world, the Lord has come, let earth receive her King.” Where was this coming from? I wondered. Quieting my frustrated mind, I slowed down to listen. The song was playing over the intercom. I had totally tuned it out.
My beautiful little boy with his great big label had heard what I had not. Women coming out of their stalls smiled and sang with him. I think the angels would have included us in their choir that day.
In that moment I felt the Lord assure me that He had created my son and knew his needs and exactly how to reach him. After all, this is what Christmas is all about. Our loving Father, knowing our need of the gift of salvation, reached the world through Jesus Christ. Joy to the world, the Lord has come. Let us receive our King!
Isa 7:14 Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call Him Immanuel.
Matt 6:8 ...for your Father knows what you need…
1 Tim 1:15 …Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners…
Lord, thank You for knowing my needs...for sending Your Son and creating a way to reach me. This Christmas, please help me quiet my frustrations and busy to-do list and listen to Your song. These things I pray...in Jesus' name...amen.
_____________________________
Kimberly (aka KJ)
Shifing Gears w/ Kimberly
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/2/2008 8:03:10 AM
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kj88il
Posts: 1642
Joined: 3/3/2008
From: IL (NW Central)
Status: offline
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quote:
MY KEY:
Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
Bold, black text is what especially stood out to me.
New International Version (NIV)
My personal notes
Chapter 2
Wisdom's Worth...or Moral Benefits of Wisdom
2:4 if you seek it like silver
and search for it like hidden treasure,
2:4 and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,
You should have seen us women after Thanksgiving...searching thru all the Black Friday sales flyers for the best bargains on the things we wanted...or suddenly realized we wanted! Why do we not have that same enthusiasm when searching thru God's Word???
2:6 For the Lord gives wisdom;
from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.
2:7 He stores up success for the upright;
He is a shield for those who live with integrity
2:8 so that He may guard the paths of justice
and protect the way of His loyal followers.
2:6 For the Lord gives wisdom
and from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.
2:7 He holds victory in store for the upright,
He is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,
2:8 for He guards the course of the just and protects the way of His faithful ones.
Wisdom is not a short-term thing. If we search out His wisdom, He will protect us and we shall be victorious!
2:10 For wisdom will enter your mind,
and knowledge will delight your heart.
2:10 For wisdom will enter your heart,
and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.
When we were younger, gaining wisdom (usually associated with studying) did NOT usually delight our hearts, did it? But don't you find now that you're older, you enjoy learning more? And you can see 'longer' how that new wisdom spills over into other areas of your life?
2:11 Discretion will watch over you,
and understanding will guard you,
2:12 rescuing you from the way of evil -
2:11 Discretion will protect you,
and understanding will guard you.
2:12 Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men...
Discretion is not a term associated with the simple or evil...that type usually runs headfirst into a bad situation! But a wise man knows he must exercise discretion; that patience and discipline will be to his benefit.
2:16 It will rescue you from a forbidden woman,
from a stranger with her flattering talk.
2:16 It will save you also from the adulteress,
from the wayward wife with her seductive words.
This is a trap I have to guard myself against. Sometimes I want soooo badly to believe the 'flattering talk" or the 'seductive words." I let my self-worth shrink to the point that I forget that I'm a child of God..that I DO possess a certain amount of wisdom...that I am NOT powerless and should not be easily swayed.
2:21 For the upright will habit the land,
and those of integrity will remain in it;
2:21 For the upright will live in the land,
and the blameless will remain in it;
_____________________________
Kimberly (aka KJ)
Shifing Gears w/ Kimberly
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/3/2008 7:45:42 AM
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kj88il
Posts: 1642
Joined: 3/3/2008
From: IL (NW Central)
Status: offline
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today's devotion......
Handling Daily Frustrations
Luke 8:15 But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the Word, retain it, and by persevering, produce a crop,
Recently, I had a conversation with a customer service agent. I use the words "customer service" very loosely. There was not a lot of concern over me being a faithful customer nor any expressions of service.
Let’s just say, I wasn’t feeling the love. I remained calm, but it seriously took everything in me to do so.
I know the lady on the other end of the phone was just following procedure, but I wasn’t getting anywhere with a very simple request. It made no sense. It wasn't right. And it certainly did nothing to make me fond of this particular company.
Later on, I started thinking about the woman on the other end of the line. After my call, she probably moved on to the next frustrated customer. And then the next. And then the next. Suddenly, I felt so sorry for her. I decided it wasn’t her desire to not be able to help me. She was truly just following the orders of the higher-ups at her company.
I imagined her packing up her things at the end of another long day and heading home. A home where she is having to face her own daily aggravations and frustrations. That's when it hit me. While on the phone, I never pictured her as a person really. To me, she was just a voice on the other end of the phone that was causing me extreme frustration.
How might my reaction have been different if I’d stopped to think about her as a woman just like me? …What might it be like to be her, to live her life, and to have to go to her job everyday?
I decided God was trying to get my attention to be more aware of those around me, those that He loves dearly. Those that I, sadly, sometimes don't even see. In Luke 8:15 Jesus reminds us, "But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.” I want Jesus’ message to fall on a heart that is humble and fertile enough to:
Receive God’s word…
Retain God’s instruction, and…
Reflect God’s character in both my action and reactions.
When I stop to think about this, I am challenged. Whether I am talking with a frustrating customer service representative that I don’t know, or interacting with those I know and love, I must work towards being a woman who displays Godly character. Just like Luke 8:15 encourages, whether I'm having a frustrating conversation or a friendly one, may God’s messages of truth have such an impact on me that my heart remains noble and good.
Ps 37:30-31 The mouth of the righteous man utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks what is just. The law of his God is in his heart; his feet do not slip.
1 Cor 13:1 If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.
Lord, It is easy to honor You with my carefully-thought-through actions, but sometimes much harder with my reactions. Even when I'm caught off guard, may Your love and patience be the spillover from my heart. Remind me to show Your love...not just to those I know and value...but to those YOU know and value! All these things I pray...in Jesus' name...amen.
Wow...good one today!!! I've developed a really hard heart toward a couple people at my office. There is nothing in me that wants to pray for these people...let alone show them love. This devotion reminds me that it doesn't matter how I feel...God loves them and that alone is enough reason for me to work on changing my attitude toard them. (Lord help me!!  )
_____________________________
Kimberly (aka KJ)
Shifing Gears w/ Kimberly
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/3/2008 8:10:25 AM
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kj88il
Posts: 1642
Joined: 3/3/2008
From: IL (NW Central)
Status: offline
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quote:
MY KEY:
Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
Bold, black text is what especially stood out to me.
New International Version (NIV)
My personal notes
Chapter 3
Further Benefits of Wisdom
3:2 (keep my teaching and my commands) for they will prolong your life many years,
and bring you prosperity.
3:4 Then you will win favor and a good name
in the sight of God and man.
3:5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
3:6 in all your ways acknowledge Him,
and He will make your paths straight.
3:7 Do not be wise in your own eyes;
fear the Lord and shun evil.
3:8 This will bring health to your body
and nourshiment to your bones.
3:9 Honor the Lord with your wealth,
with the firstfruits of all your crops;
3:10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing,
and your vats will brim over with new wine..
3:12 becuse the Lord disciplines those He loves,
as a father the son he delights in.
3:14 (wisdom) for she is more profitable than silver
and yields beter returns than gold.
3:15 She is more precious than rubies;
nothing you desire can compare with her.
3:17 (wisdom) Her ways are pleasant ways,
and all her paths are peace.
3:18 (wisdom) She is a tree of life to those who embrace her;
those who lay hold of her will be blessed.
3:23 Then you will go on your way in safety,
and your foot will not stumble;
3:24 when you lie down, you will not be afraid;
when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.
3:26 for the Lord will be your confidence...
3:27 Do not withhold good from those who deserve it,
when it is in your power to act.
3:30 Do not accuse a man for no reason -
when he has done you no harm
3:32 for the Lord detests a peverse man...
3:33 The Lord's curse is on the house of the wicked,
but He blesses the home of the righteous.
3:34 He mocks proud mockers
but gives grace to the humble.
3:35 The wise inherit honor,
but fools He holds up to shame.
Sooooo many nuggets in this chapter!! And one of my favorite passages (Prov 3:5,6). Gotta get to work...but will add some of my own thoughts later today.
_____________________________
Kimberly (aka KJ)
Shifing Gears w/ Kimberly
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/4/2008 7:47:37 AM
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kj88il
Posts: 1642
Joined: 3/3/2008
From: IL (NW Central)
Status: offline
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today's devotion...
I Can't Believe My Husband Feels Dishonored
Esth 1:20 Then when the king's edict is proclaimed throughout all his vast realm, all the women will respect their husbands, from the least to the greatest.
My son Andrew was having a rough afternoon; he was tired, he’d been disappointed by a friend and he had homework. He tried to hide the tears dripping down his cheeks as he gritted his teeth and completed his worksheet.
My husband JJ was sitting across the room watching football, occasionally glancing over at our son and me. I thought about something fun JJ could do with Andrew to cheer him up. Then I thought about how it would encourage Andrew if his dad recognized he was upset and "engaged" with him.
That wasn't happening. So, I invited JJ into the situation by suggesting he turn off the TV and come talk with Andrew. At this point, I was not thinking very honoring thoughts towards my husband. It got messy. JJ felt insulted. I felt frustrated. Finally JJ said, "Tell me what you want me to do."
So I did. Andrew loved my idea to go do something fun with his dad. In minutes, his homework was done. His tears were gone, and so was my husband. JJ was very frustrated. It wasn’t because he had to miss football. It wasn’t even what I said. It was how I said it. He felt dishonored by the timing and tone of my words. I couldn’t believe he felt dishonored. I felt so misunderstood!
I calmed down and thought more about what had happened. I remembered that JJ’s preference is for me to call him into another room away from our kids when I don’t agree with him. He’s also asked me to share my thoughts in a non-critical tone. It was very hard to admit, but I knew God wanted me to honor my husband's perspective and preferences.
Just a few months ago God had taught me the importance of honoring my husband through the story of Esther. Esther was chosen by the king to be his new wife because his first wife, Vashti, dishonored him. The king’s advisers insisted the king remove the queen from her throne because they were afraid her decision to dishonor the king would influence other wives to dishonor their husbands.
That passage reminded me that, although I may not influence a whole kingdom, my daily decisions are far-reaching. As wives, our words, actions and attitudes towards our husbands influence many. We influence the kind of women our sons will marry. We influence how our daughters will speak to their husbands. We influence how our friends might talk to their husbands after hearing how we talk to ours.
So, now I had the opportunity to apply this truth to my marriage. I have to admit it wasn’t easy. My pride insisted that I had the best of intentions. I thought so highly of my husband that I wanted him to be the one to speak into Andrew's hurts and right whatever was wrong.
Maybe Vashti had good intentions. Maybe she was trying to prove what seemed like a good point, but it lead to her downfall. Whatever the case, a bigger point was proven: a wife’s influence is far reaching when she dishonors her husband.
I couldn’t change what I’d done that day. But I could change how it was impacting my little kingdom. With God’s help I told JJ, "I'm sorry for dishonoring you," and I said it in front of my sons. My pride was hard to swallow, but it went down a little easier knowing that honoring my husband honors God, and also influences my sons who I hope will one day look for wives who will honor them, too.
Rom 15:5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement, give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus …
Father, only You know if I'll ever have another husband...but I know I have fallen into this same trap in the past. These past few years, I've tried very hard to not dishonor my 'man'...especially in front of his son. I also know I've failed miserably sometimes. Help me remeber that as a single, it's still important for me to honor a man in the beginning of a relationship...because that influences whether or not it will ever grow into something deeper. Lord, I want to be a woman who honors the man in my life, but it’s hard when that means giving up my desire to be right. Help me to honor You, my 'man', and others in my thoughts, actions, words and decisions. I want my life to have a Godly influence on those around me. All these things I pray...in Jesus' name...amen.
_____________________________
Kimberly (aka KJ)
Shifing Gears w/ Kimberly
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/4/2008 8:02:48 AM
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kj88il
Posts: 1642
Joined: 3/3/2008
From: IL (NW Central)
Status: offline
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MY KEY:
Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
Bold, black text is what especially stood out to me.
New International Version (NIV)
My personal notes
Chapter 4
Wisdom Is Supreme
4:6 Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you;
love her, and she will watch over you.
4:7 Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom.
Though it cost all you have, get understanding.
4:10 Listen, my son, accept what i say,
and the years of your life will be many.
4:23 Above all else, guard your heart,
for it is the wellspring of life.
4:24 Put away perversity from your mouth;
keep corrupt talk far from your lips..
I like how Solomon keeps reminding us that we shouldn't desire wisdom just for the sake of being 'wise'...but that wisdom will protect us and prolong our lives.
And this struck me today: I've been considering going back to school again (since this job never turned into anything permanent...and it doesn't look like my other opportunity is going to pan out afterall). The last couple weeks, every time I start to think about it, I'm intimidated by the financial aspects of it all...and just shut it down. Reading verse 7 today makes me wonder if I shouldn't pursue it further and talk to a financial aid rep. Maybe God is telling me that it will be worth any cost. Hmmmmmmmmm....
_____________________________
Kimberly (aka KJ)
Shifing Gears w/ Kimberly
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/7/2008 12:24:43 AM
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kj88il
Posts: 1642
Joined: 3/3/2008
From: IL (NW Central)
Status: offline
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MY KEY:
Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
Bold, black text is what especially stood out to me.
New International Version (NIV)
My personal notes
Chapter 5
Warning Against Adultery
5:3 For the lips of an adulteress drip honey,
and her speech is smoother than oil;
They warned about 'smooth talkers' even back in OT days...yet we STILL fall prey to it!
5:18 ...and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth.
5:21 For a man's ways are in full view of the Lord,
and He examines all his paths.
5:23 He will die for lack of discipline,
led astray by his own great folly.
There's that word 'discipline' again.
_____________________________
Kimberly (aka KJ)
Shifing Gears w/ Kimberly
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/10/2008 8:05:42 AM
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kj88il
Posts: 1642
Joined: 3/3/2008
From: IL (NW Central)
Status: offline
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I am soooooo behind here. Between headaches and my glasses breaking and not being able to see 2 mornings in a row...well.......all I can do is start to catch up. But let me tell ya....I can feel the difference...not getting my morning does of Bible fortification. I have GOT to get back into this...cuz I have entered a sudden downward spiral. Lord...feed me. 
MY KEY:
Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
Bold, black text is what especially stood out to me.
New International Version (NIV)
My personal notes
Chapter 6
Financial Entanglements
6:1 My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor...
6:2 you have been trapped by the words of your lips -
6:3 ...free yourself,
for you have put yourself in your neightbor's power;
Go, humble yourself, and plead with your neighbor.
I really struggle with this issue. When I was driving, money was not a problem...and I lent money to someone very close to me. Of course, it was agreed it wasn't 'charity' and it would be paid back. At the time, I was glad to be in a position to help, ya' know? But now...when I am desperate...I am powerless.
Laziness
6: 10 A little sleep, a little slumber,
a little folding of the arms to rest,
6:11 and your poverty will come like a robber,
your need, like a bandit.
A Malicious Man
6: 12 A worthless person, a wicked man,
who goes around speaking dishonestly,
6:13 who winks his eyes...
6:15 Therefore calamity will strike him suddenly;
he will be shattered instantly - beyond recovery.
What the Lord Hates
6:16 Six things the Lord hates;
in fact, seven are detestable to Him:
6:17 arrogant eyes, a lying tongue,
hands that shed innocent blood,
6:18 a heart that plots wicked schemes,
feet eager to run to evil;
6:19 a lying witness who gives false testimony,
and one who stirs up trouble among brothers.
Warning Against Adultery
6:23 For a commandment is a lamp, teaching is a light,
and corrective instructions are the way to life.
6:26 For a prostitute's fee is only a loaf of bread,
but an adulteress goes after your very life.
6:32 The one who commits adultery lacks sense;
whoever does so destroys himself.
6:33 ...his disgrace will never be removed.
6: 34 For jealousy enrages a husband,
and he will show no mercy when he takes revenge.
< Message edited by kj88il -- 12/11/2008 8:12:33 AM >
_____________________________
Kimberly (aka KJ)
Shifing Gears w/ Kimberly
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/11/2008 8:02:58 AM
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kj88il
Posts: 1642
Joined: 3/3/2008
From: IL (NW Central)
Status: offline
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MY KEY:
Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
Bold, black text is what especially stood out to me.
New International Version (NIV)
My personal notes
Chapter 7
A Story of Seduction
Ch 7 tells the story of a young man being seduced by a woman whose husband is out of town.
7:21 She seduces him with her persistent pleading;
she lures with her flattering talk.
It's so easy to just keep listening, or to let someone feed your ego, isn't it? Even when you know they're not being genuine?
_____________________________
Kimberly (aka KJ)
Shifing Gears w/ Kimberly
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/11/2008 9:25:32 AM
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ShallbeRebuilt
Posts: 1995
Joined: 11/8/2007
Status: offline
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Two things:
Re: The money you lent...if you lent it to that person as unto the Lord, then allow yourself to rest in the fact that you made an offering to Him, and He will assuredly repay you.
Re: flattery...nope, once I realize they are insincere, I'm done listening. But that's the problem: I have so much pride (and worldly hunger for flattery and gullibility) that I actually believe the flatterer is genuine for too long before I wake up.
drat it.
shallbe
_____________________________
SHALLBE’S BATTY BELFRY
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/11/2008 7:15:28 PM
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kj88il
Posts: 1642
Joined: 3/3/2008
From: IL (NW Central)
Status: offline
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MY KEY:
Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
Bold, black text is what especially stood out to me.
New International Version (NIV)
My personal notes
Chapter 8
Wisdom's Appeal
Ch 8 is written as Wisdom...crying out to us.
8:5: Learn to be shrewd, you who are inexperienced;
develop common sense, you who are foolish.
8:5 You who are simple, gain prudence;
you who are foolish, gain understanding.
Wisdom is not something we're just born with...we are instructed to work at it. Notice the verbs: learn, develop, gain??? God WANTS us to put out a little effort. (And boy...every time I consider going back to school......that scares me!! LOL)
8:13 To fear the Lord is to hate evil,
I hate arrogant pride, evil conduct, and perverse speech.
8:14 I possess good advice and competence;
I have understanding and strength.
8:13 To fear the Lord is to hate evil;
I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior, and perverse speech.
8:14 Counsel and sound judgment are mine;
I have understanding and power.
There are times that I feel unchallenged and bored...and really desire to learn something new...or to learn more about something that interests me. I don't consider myself a 'learned' person. I was always called one of the 'smart kids' in school...but I feel like I've lost some of that. I honestly think some of that comes from not working in a challenging environment. I've let myself become lazy because the choices are so limited. I think this is maybe God telling me I need to pursue something MORE.
8:17 ...those who search for me, find me.
8:17 ...those who seek me, find me.
I love when God gives us little promises. If we make the effort to seek Wisdom out...it will be given to us. I know that doesn't mean it will be easy...but we WILL find it.
8:18 With me are riches and honor,
lasting wealth and righteousness.
8:18 With me are riches and honor,
enduring wealth and prosperity.
This is one of those verses that perplexes me. I don't need to be affluent...but I would certainly like to be able to support myself...and maybe even have a little left over to do things with my kids, buy something I want...not just wait til I have no choice but to buy something that fell apart. But is this one of those 'Heavenly' rewards...or can we anticipate some level of wealth while we're here on earth? (And please don't preach about 'love of money.' That would be insulting. I'm not dreaming of winning the lottery...I'd just like to be able to pay my bills AND spend a weekend in Chicago with my kids once in a while.)
8:21 giving wealth as an inheritance to those who love me,
and filling their treasuries.
8:21 bestowing wealth on those who love me,
and making their treasuries full.
8:22 The Lord made me at the beginning of His creation...
8:23 ...before the earth began.
8:22 The Lord possessed me at the beginning of His work...
8:23 ...before the world began.
I don't think I ever thought of this before. Beyond actual comprehension, isn't it?
8:30 I was a skilled craftsman beside Him.
8:30 There I was the craftsman at His side.
8:32 ...those who keep my ways are happy.
8:32 ...blessed are those who keep my ways.
"Happy" is something I've always wanted to be. I remember back in high school...asking my very dear Church friend, "WHY I can't be happy?". Everyone else seemed happy. Sure, we were all going through typical teenage stuff...but they were all usually smiling and laughing. I wasn't somber or morose...but I wasn't "perky," either. "Perky" actually just ticked me off. I still can't understand how so many people seem genuinely happy. I'm just glad to have a few fleeting moments of 'happy'. It truly confounds me. And now I have to ask myself where all that fits in with regard to 'Wisdom.'  It makes my head hurt.
8:35 For the one who finds me finds life
and obtains favor from the Lord.
8:35 For whoever finds me finds life
and receives favor from the Lord.
_____________________________
Kimberly (aka KJ)
Shifing Gears w/ Kimberly
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/12/2008 8:00:21 AM
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kj88il
Posts: 1642
Joined: 3/3/2008
From: IL (NW Central)
Status: offline
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MY KEY:
Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
Bold, black text is what especially stood out to me.
New International Version (NIV)
My personal notes
Chapter 9
Wisdom versus Foolishness or......Invitations of Wisdom and of Folly
9:7 The one who corrects a mocker will bring dishonor on himself;
the one who rebukes a wicked man will get hurt;
9:8 Don't rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you;
rebuke a wise man, and he will love you.
9:7 Whoever corrects a mocker brings on insult;
whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse.
9:8 Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you;
rebuke a wise man and he will love you.
9:9 Instruct a wise man, and he will be wiser still;
teach a righteous man, and he will learn more.
9:9 Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still;
teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning.
9:12 If you are wise, you are wise for your own benefit;
if you mock, you alone will hear the consequences.
9:12 If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you;
f you are a mocker, you alone will suffer.
This reminds me of something I read once, "It's not my job to police the universe." It's sooooo hard not to tell someone when they're being wrong, or stupid, or bull-headed. But with some people, it would do no good...only antagonize them. I should just send up a little prayer that God will open their hearts to their own ignorance, and go on about my business, right? 
_____________________________
Kimberly (aka KJ)
Shifing Gears w/ Kimberly
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/12/2008 11:10:04 AM
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ShallbeRebuilt
Posts: 1995
Joined: 11/8/2007
Status: offline
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quote:
Wisdom is not something we're just born with...we are instructed to work at it. Notice the verbs: learn, develop, gain??? God WANTS us to put out a little effort. (And boy...every time I consider going back to school......that scares me!! LOL)
But remember that wisdom and knowledge are two different things. To me, knowledge is “the facts, ma’am, just the facts” (skills and training fall into this category) and wisdom is the understanding of the right use and employment of all of that.
It reminds me of two verses that should encourage you:
2Peter 1:5-8
5 For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
And James 1:5
5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
quote:
This is one of those verses that perplexes me. I don't need to be affluent...but I would certainly like to be able to support myself...and maybe even have a little left over to do things with my kids, buy something I want...not just wait til I have no choice but to buy something that fell apart. But is this one of those 'Heavenly' rewards...or can we anticipate some level of wealth while we're here on earth? (And please don't preach about 'love of money.' That would be insulting. I'm not dreaming of winning the lottery...I'd just like to be able to pay my bills AND spend a weekend in Chicago with my kids once in a while.)
You know, being financially comfortable is not all it’s cracked up to be. But honestly, I don’t think that material affluence is what this verse is talking about, and the reason I don’t is because so many true believers in this world are not affluent, nor even comfortable, but struggling and even starving. Because of this I have to believe that the riches mentioned here are spiritual, and both for now and for eternity. Belief, grace, faith, wisdom…those are all gifts of the Giver, and repeatedly mentioned as riches and wealth. We take them for granted and fail to appreciate them for their bounty, but that’s our problem, not God’s. He HAS given us honor and wealth…we just want that AND everything else, silly us.
quote:
"Happy" is something I've always wanted to be. I remember back in high school...asking my very dear Church friend, "WHY I can't be happy?". Everyone else seemed happy. Sure, we were all going through typical teenage stuff...but they were all usually smiling and laughing. I wasn't somber or morose...but I wasn't "perky," either. "Perky" actually just ticked me off. I still can't understand how so many people seem genuinely happy. I'm just glad to have a few fleeting moments of 'happy'. It truly confounds me. And now I have to ask myself where all that fits in with regard to 'Wisdom.' It makes my head hurt.
And in my mind all the above ties into this comment. We are not happy for two reasons…a) we haven’t asked for the right things, and don’t appreciate the right things and b) part of it is that some of us are what scripture calls “sober-minded”—we do indeed see much of the sin and rottenness in the world, and it is hard to keep a happy countenance.
“Happy” and “Perky” are not requirements of Christians. “Joyful” and “Grateful” are. If, however, we are and choose to be (by renewing our minds) more of these last two, then I think the first two will manifest a little more in our countenances.
quote:
This reminds me of something I read once, "It's not my job to police the universe." It's sooooo hard not to tell someone when they're being wrong, or stupid, or bull-headed. But with some people, it would do no good...only antagonize them. I should just send up a little prayer that God will open their hearts to their own ignorance, and go on about my business, right?
As regards your last sentence here: it depends. As Christians, we have a mandate to warn and exhort our brothers and sisters in Christ. In other words, we MUST..we’re commanded to. And to accept that same exhortation and correction when it’s directed our way. There are conditions, though: we are to do so with love and graciousness.
If the person you feel is doing something wrong is NOT a believer, then they are only acting according to their nature and have no basis on which to behave rightly. What’s your job? To make sure they have an opportunity to hear the Word so that they meet Christ. And the same conditions apply: must be done with love and graciousness.
I find it much more fruitful, when I see or experience someone being wrong, stupid, bull-headed, etc., to consider these things, check my own reaction and heart for sin, then ask questions to help them think about their actions or opinions. It’s more effective than telling them anything.
We are also to remember God's Sovereignty and love for others: that's where the "not my job" part comes in. He loves them as much as He loves you; He is just as capable of speaking to and leading them as He is of speaking to and leading you. So you can relax.
And of course, little prayer will help…a LOT of prayer will help a LOT.
shallbe
_____________________________
SHALLBE’S BATTY BELFRY
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/14/2008 8:51:52 AM
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BlessedAngel1983
Posts: 10518
Joined: 6/8/2007
From: South Carolina
Status: offline
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Hey Mama KJ!!!! How is you?!?!
_____________________________
Reflecting with Terri
See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come.
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/14/2008 11:04:44 PM
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kj88il
Posts: 1642
Joined: 3/3/2008
From: IL (NW Central)
Status: offline
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quote:
ORIGINAL: BlessedAngel1983
Hey Mama KJ!!!! How is you?!?!
I'm well. Been busy...trying to NOT dawdle online too much.
I see you have a new 'handle.' I like it. Makes me think I should follow your example...quit WAITING and start BEING!
(((terri)))
_____________________________
Kimberly (aka KJ)
Shifing Gears w/ Kimberly
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/14/2008 11:21:38 PM
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BlessedAngel1983
Posts: 10518
Joined: 6/8/2007
From: South Carolina
Status: offline
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Thats my theory. So far its worked.
_____________________________
Reflecting with Terri
See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come.
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/14/2008 11:40:59 PM
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kj88il
Posts: 1642
Joined: 3/3/2008
From: IL (NW Central)
Status: offline
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MY KEY:
Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
Bold, black text is what especially stood out to me.
New International Version (NIV)
My personal notes
Chapter 10
A Collection of Solomon's Proverbs
10:2 Ill-gotten gains do not profit anyone,
but righteousness rescues from death.
10:2 Ill-gotten treasures are of no value,
but righteousness delivers from death.
10:4 Idle hands make one poor,
but diligent hands bring riches.
10:4 Lazy hands make a man poor,
but diligent hands bring wealth.
10:8 A wise heart accepts commands,
but foolish lips will be destroyed.
10:8 The wise in heart accept commands,
but a chattering flool comes to ruin.
10:9 The one who lives with integrity lives securely,
but whoever perverts his ways will be found out.
10:9 The man of integrity walks securely,
but he who takes crooked paths will be found out.
10:12 Hatred stirs up conflicts,
but love covers all offenses.
10:12 Hatred stirs up dissension,
but love covers over all wrongs.
10:14 The wise store up knowledge,
but the mouth of the fool hastens destruction.
10:14 Wise men store up knowledge,
but the mouth of a fool invites ruin.
10:17 The one who follows instruction is on the path to life,
but the one who rejects correction goes astray.
10:17 He who heeds discipline shows the way to life,
but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.
There's my 'favorite' word again. The prospect of going back to school has made me realize how undisciplined I am. I have no real schedule...I don't have kid things to go to...I'm not a part of any groups. I do what I want...when I want. Classes and homework are really gonna be a change (IF that even happens)!! At least I don't have to worry about trying to squeeze them into an already-busy schedule, right?
10:19 When there are many words, sin is unavoidable,
but the one who controls his lips is wise.
10:19 When words are many, sin is not absent,
but he who holds his tongue is wise.
10:24 What the wicket dreads will come to him,
but what the righteous desires will be given to him.
10:24 What the wicked dreads will overtake him;
what the righteous desire will be granted.
10:28 The hope of the righteous is joy,
but the expectation of the wicked comes to nothing.
10:28 The prospect of the righteous is joy,
but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing.
I hi-lited all these references to speaking foolishly because that's EXACTLY what I did Friday night. I let my anger and my frustration run wild. Granted...it involved my glasses getting broke again and my not being able to see more than 1' in front of my face for about 10 hrs...which made me feel VERY helpless and angry...but I STILL acted foolishly. If I'd been doing these chapters daily...maybe Ch 10 would have jumped into my mind. Instead...I let Kimberly take control and totally disregarded God's teachings. I don't expect to be perfect...but I always taught my children to 'be the bigger person.' And I failed miserably Friday night.
Thank You, Father...for forgivness and opportunities to try and do it better next time. Write these verses on my heart...that I would remember them the next time I'm at the end of my fuse. Help me to let Your Holy Spirit speak through me...or just help me to keep my mouth shut.
_____________________________
Kimberly (aka KJ)
Shifing Gears w/ Kimberly
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/15/2008 7:50:33 AM
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kj88il
Posts: 1642
Joined: 3/3/2008
From: IL (NW Central)
Status: offline
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today's devotion...
Does God Really Care About Me?
Ps 61:1-4 Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe. I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings.
Do you ever feel lonely?
Recently, I was at an event full of people. Everyone else seemed gabby and like they were effortlessly making easy connections with others. I just felt out of sorts. Someone had said something to me earlier that day that hurt my feelings and knocked me off kilter. It was one of those, “I would really like to be at home alone, in a bubble bath, eating something chocolate” kind of nights. But I had to go to this outing, so here I was – feeling lonely.
My shifting emotions caused me to get in such a down state, I even started wondering if God cared about me.
I politely smiled my way through the evening, and finally got to go home. As I crawled into bed that night, I asked Jesus, “Why am I letting some thoughtless comment made by someone affect me like this?”
There was no deep explanation. There was no Bible verse that instantly popped into my head. There was no sudden rush of peace through my heart. Only a very gentle reminder in the depths of my soul that Jesus loves me - insecurities and all.
Jesus loves me, that simple little song I learned all those years ago. Very simple, yet so powerfully profound, that one statement grounds me in the truth of who God says I am. Friends can’t make you feel accepted all the time. Accomplishments will never truly make you feel secure. Having lots of people around you does not mean you won’t ever feel lonely. And chocolate, while it is deliciously distracting, is just a little too temporary.
So, I turn to the One who is Everlasting, Prince of Peace, Emmanuel - God with us. I draw close to Him so He can help me separate solid truth from shifting emotion.
See if you can identify with any of the shifting emotions listed below. Then, rejoice as you read God’s solid truths upon which we can find a firm place to stand and a sure place to park our feelings.
Shifting Emotion:
I don’t always feel noticed by other people. Everyone just seems to be wrapped up in their own lives. Sometimes I even wonder if God notices me.
Solid Truth:
God not only notices us, He is with us at all times. We are to keep ourselves in God’s love whether we feel Him or not. By praying, and filling our minds with God’s truth, His love will grow in us and through us. Then we won’t be so consumed with wanting others to notice us. We will become people who notice others and let God’s love shine on them. Jude 1:20-21, “But you, dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit. Keep yourselves in God's love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.”
Shifting Emotion:
I don’t feel very loved. Therefore, I don’t feel like being very loving towards others.
Solid Truth:
We are dearly loved by God. His love enables us to display compassion, kindness and patience even when we don’t feel like it. Colossians 3:12, “Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
Shifting Emotion:
Does God really care about this situation I’m in?
Solid Truth:
God is with us. As we cry out to Him, we are reminded of His help. Proverbs 61:1-4, “Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe. I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings.”
Lord, Help me rid my mind and heart of the doubts shifting emotions cause, and be filled with only Your solid truths. These things I pray...in Jesus' name...amen.
_____________________________
Kimberly (aka KJ)
Shifing Gears w/ Kimberly
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/15/2008 12:37:02 PM
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ShallbeRebuilt
Posts: 1995
Joined: 11/8/2007
Status: offline
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Thanks so much, Kimberly. That devotion is right on for me. God recently brought it to my attention that I was allowing my thought life to cause me to be lonely.
The "flare" word was "nobody".
nobody notices me
nobody cares if I'm tired
nobody cares if I'm lonely
nobody is going to care when I'm old
nobody cares that I go to bed crying
I even tried to make it a good thing by saying "nobody ______________, but that's ok. I'm supposed to decrease, and Christ is supposed to increase".
But all of that is so untrue!
First of all, GOD cares. I am tempted often to say "yeah, yeah, God CARES, but He doesn't care that it hurts, only that it makes me into the person HE wants me to be. So that doesn't count". But while He may not change what He's doing, He does care that it hurts, and He WILL help me deal with the pain. I just have to quit whining about it and ask for the help.
And though my children are going on with their own lives and will soon all be out of the nest, they do really care. If I truly need them, I can ask for help. In all actuality, they are so very good to me that I should be ashamed of my thoughts.
I finally had to admit that "nobody" isn't true, and that I needed to find something true to replace that "flare word". I haven't yet completed the process of replacing it, but at least I know now that "nobody" is false, and anytime I hear myself saying it to me, I need to STOP IT.
It's helped.
shallbe
_____________________________
SHALLBE’S BATTY BELFRY
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/15/2008 1:39:44 PM
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kj88il
Posts: 1642
Joined: 3/3/2008
From: IL (NW Central)
Status: offline
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quote:
ORIGINAL: ShallbeRebuilt
Thanks so much, Kimberly. That devotion is right on for me. God recently brought it to my attention that I was allowing my thought life to cause me to be lonely.
The "flare" word was "nobody".
nobody notices me
nobody cares if I'm tired
nobody cares if I'm lonely
nobody is going to care when I'm old
nobody cares that I go to bed crying
I even tried to make it a good thing by saying "nobody ______________, but that's ok. I'm supposed to decrease, and Christ is supposed to increase".
But all of that is so untrue!
First of all, GOD cares. I am tempted often to say "yeah, yeah, God CARES, but He doesn't care that it hurts, only that it makes me into the person HE wants me to be. So that doesn't count". But while He may not change what He's doing, He does care that it hurts, and He WILL help me deal with the pain. I just have to quit whining about it and ask for the help.
And though my children are going on with their own lives and will soon all be out of the nest, they do really care. If I truly need them, I can ask for help. In all actuality, they are so very good to me that I should be ashamed of my thoughts.
I finally had to admit that "nobody" isn't true, and that I needed to find something true to replace that "flare word". I haven't yet completed the process of replacing it, but at least I know now that "nobody" is false, and anytime I hear myself saying it to me, I need to STOP IT.
It's helped.
shallbe
What I immediately thought of to replace 'nobody' is "It's enough that God..."
Esther, I totally understand where you're coming from. Maybe it will be a glimmer of hope that I said those 'nobody' statements A LOT more when I was a hands-on mama. I honestly don't find myself thinking that quite as much. I guess just cuz some of the day-to-day pressure isn't building up the way it used to. Guess that's something to add the the "+" column on the Empty-Nester Mama Worksheet.
Hang in there, gf. I CARE, too...and I am praying!!! (((Esther)))
_____________________________
Kimberly (aka KJ)
Shifing Gears w/ Kimberly
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RE: Shifting Gears with Kimberly - 12/16/2008 7:47:44 AM
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kj88il
Posts: 1642
Joined: 3/3/2008
From: IL (NW Central)
Status: offline
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today's devotion...
Burnt Snowmen
2 Tim 1:6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands
The snowmen dressed in red mufflers and black stovepipe hats stood cheerily on the dining room table. Amidst all the Christmas decorations, their presence brought the most oohs and ahs. Everyone at the party asked my friend, “Where did you buy them?”
I smiled. I had bought the snowmen candles for my friend as her Christmas gift. I thought to myself, “You did well!”
A group of us chatted around the dining room table, nibbling on sugar cookies. Holiday gaiety floated through the room. We laughed together until, all of sudden, I noticed smoke emitting from all three of the wax snowmen candles. Before I could speak, flames spewed up and out of the stovepipe hats. The candles burst into flames, igniting the other table decorations! My friend shrieked for help. Her husband, a firefighter by profession, ran into the room and doused the candles with the bowl of fruit punch that sat on a side table.
We sat in shocked silence. Instead of feeling pride over my gift, I hung my head in embarrassment. Now everyone wanted to know where I had purchased the fire hazard, because they didn’t want to buy anything of the same nature!
The apostle Paul encourages us “…to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you ...” (2 Timothy 1:6, NIV). Much like the candles burst into flames from a catalyst within, our gifts are to burst forth through the power of the Holy Spirit within us. Our God-given gifts are to be used to bless others.
Maybe you’re thinking, “That’s great for others, but I don’t have any gifts to share.” My friend, God’s Word promises “…each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that” (1 Corinthians 7:7, NIV). I encourage you to seek the Lord and ask Him to show you what gifts He’s placed within you.
Consider Romans 12:6-8, “We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully” (NIV).
So what spiritual gift do you have that Christ wants you to use this Christmas season? I encourage you to allow your spiritual gifts to burn brightly during the Advent Season. And, as we fan our gifts into flames, let’s pray that others will see and recognize the glory of the Most High God.
Lord, thank You for giving me spiritual gifts. Please show me the gifts You’ve placed within me. Teach me how to use my gifts so that others may see You and desire to know You more. These things I pray...in Jesus' name...amen.
_____________________________
Kimberly (aka KJ)
Shifing Gears w/ Kimberly
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