ReDeEmeD OnE

2006-03-04T17:22:00.000-08:00

Goodbye fellow bloggers! A new season of life has arrived and that means it's time to change with the season as well. It has been great getting to know you all, I love you and God bless you!

To those i've met, my email is Jess851s@hotmail.com , keep in touch!

2005-12-28T11:00:00.001-08:00

nothin but praise!

I want to give a shout out to the Lord if for no other reason just to boast about Him. So, this blog is dedicated to the One and Only thing in my life that's continually faithful. A little truth, people will fail you, it is only inevitable, but the Lord, now He shows Himself Faithful and True everyday! He is good all the time, all the time He is good! Alleluia! No matter what we face. Sometimes it is challenging to praise Him in times of trial, but Rm. 8:28 says that He works for the good of those He loves! That my friends is the good news! Recently, I have discovered that in times when I need to just persevere and hold my head up even while it seems the world around me is spinning out of control, i can still rejoice and find peace in Him. Did you know that in those times of trial, it it those moments that you significantly grow closer to the Lord? I have a challenge for you. That is this: Think about some of the hardest things you've faced in your walk and then......find the Lords hand carrying you through it. I promise, just as sure as the sun sets, you'll find it....... everytime faithful and true!

2005-12-08T11:52:00.000-08:00

not just another day....

For this is the day the Lord has made!

I've decided this: Any day that follows from this point on in my life is going to be supernatural and fruitful as I persevere towards the higher calling; in the mighty name of Jesus! Not to say that everyday that I've lived hasn't been, but... come on lets be real for a moment. We know life isn't always full of giggles and heart warming events. In the words of Beth Moore, "Can I get an amen on that ladies and gentleman?"

This weekend God not only touched my heart in a way it hasn't been touched before, but He broke through to the desolete places in my mind that held me captive, unable to move . For so long I've felt like their was this leech wreaking havok in me trying to suck the life out of my mind. Pretty graphic, but true and the only way I can describe it.) I believed this held me back from looking higher and further into the Kingdom. Anyways...
Since then, He's reminded me of the calling that's on my life and increased my vision, faith, and trust in Him to see these things come to pass. You to? I am sure I'm not alone in this. I feel rejuvinated and determined more then ever to seek God and take the necessary steps needed to complete this calling! Amen
Sometimes I think we can think too much. By we I mean me, and I am sure you also. God told me that I need to do more then just imagine the possibilities. Does that make sense to you? We are to be doers of the Word, not just listen and so deceive ourselves. We are a people of action just like Jesus. He isn't lazy. He has work to do, and so do we. I don't have time to waist complaining, dwelling on things that are unfruitful, and being selfish and lazy. We were SUMMONED into this Kingdom with a purpose and a destiny to live out. I can tell you, I for one am reaching for the stars and I believe you're going to reach with me into the Heavens and shake this world up side down. Are you with me on this? God bless and my prayers are with you all.

2005-11-24T10:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! Home sweet home I am, and I had the best sleep last night. So today, unlike any other day is suppost to be a day of thankfulness. I woke up today thinking about what God has done for me and what He has taken me from.
I remenise on the last year of my life and ask myself, is this really real? Am I really living in Michigan, away from all I know and making a life with the Lord by my side? WOW! It might not seem like anything to you, but from where I came from this is truly a miracle! Gods hand has always been on my life. I can remember many years of my life when I used to stand outside at night, gaze into the sky and think, what am I going to do in life? In my heart I always wanted to travel and I knew that God had something "special" planned for me that I couldn't comprehend.

A persons walk with God isn't easy at all, and it takes dedication and perseverence to get where you want to go, but if you want it bad enough, you'll do WHATEVER it takes to get there. Remember that LIFE itself is what we make it, so get on it and start living life! Otherwise time passes and here we are 5,10, or 15 years later asking what the heck did I do in life? We all go through highs and lows in our walk, but when we CHOOSE to make the best of it and listen to what God wants to teach us we then obtain the victory over defeat! Remember It is Gods job to TRAIN us to conquer over the world! We've been givin the privilege of walking through life with the GREAT COUSLOR as our guide.
I often ask myself this question, "Why is it that the simplest things to change in my life are often the most challenging things to change?" Do you know what I mean by this question? The enemy is here to kill, steal, and destroy us. He is a liar and he will waste your time with small things you can easily change if you're not paying attention to what is really hindering your life then helping you. I challenge you to have a think over this one and ask yourself what God has been asking you to change in your life that you've avoided. The time is NOW!

2005-11-16T18:36:00.000-08:00

I STEP DOWN FROM MY THRONE

INTO A REALM OF THE UNKNOWN
AND I STAND HERE TODAY

CHANGED FOREVER MORE

NOT THE SAME AS ONCE BEFORE.

A WITNESS TO THE VOICE THAT CALLED

LIVING PROOF OF THE ONLY TRUTH

HERE ME, LISTEN TO THIS PLEA

ARISE AND AWAKE, ARISE AND AWAKE!

THE ONE AND ONLY'S HERE

THEIR IS NOTHING LEFT TO FEAR

SET BEFORE YOUR GOD

A HEART THAT'S REAL

THEIR IS MORE TO LIFE

THEY WHAT YOU SEE.

THIS IS NOT THE END MY FRIEND

A VOICE CALLS OUT TO YOU

THE TIME IS NOW

REDEMPTION DAY AT LAST!

2005-11-11T12:25:00.000-08:00

REMEMBERANCE

There are a few things the good Lord spoke to me about that I would like to share with all of you. Isn't it wonderful to know that when we feel at our worst, it is still ok, because God is in control? We go through trials and tribulations in life and sometimes face difficult obstacles. I find the more I challenge myself in areas of my life that will cause me to mature not only in Christ, but as a women, the bigger the test of perseverence. Am I right or what? The last few weeks have been challengng for me. Not because of things in life that get me down, but It is my walk with the Lord. A little tid bit about me:
FACT:
JESSICA LOVES TO BE SHARPENED AND CHALLENGED IN MY WALK WITH THE LORD.

I love to think about my life and ask what I can do to change and better myself. (spiritually) This however can also be be condeming if it's not done with a good motive and with the help of hearing the Lords voice through it all. We don't want to leave room for the enemy to step in.
I went to the Lord with a few things this week and as faithful as He is He spoke loud and clear. This time finding God's will was found in fasting to make sure their was none of me in there and all Him.

I will share with you what He spoke to me. It was regarding my walk with HIm. I needed to know what the future holds for me and where I was to go in the upcoming seasons of life and what He wanted me to do right now. I just felt as though I was at a stand still and all I could do was ask the Lord. Their were times when I didn't feel like I was hearing clearly from God, which is a good reason to fast for future reference.

GODS RESPONSE WAS THIS: (1 clear sentence)

What I do today will decide where my future will go.

MY RESPONSE:

Pretty simple but profound, just like God!

In closing to this blog, I encourage all of you to continue seeking God through prayer and fasting and remember who it is that we serve and why we wake up each day. Seek opportunites to see lives changed through the gospel of Christ and live by this scripture verse ISAIAH 61:1

"The Lord has annointed me to preach the Good news to the poor and He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted and PROCLAIM FREEDOM to the captives and release from darkness the prisoners."

2005-10-05T15:54:00.000-07:00

BARLEY BLOGGIN, YES THAT'S ME!

Hello fellow bloggers and friends! It seems like it has been ages since my last post! So much has happened within this last month. As most of you know my job at Red Robin restaurant is going great! Can I just say, I never fancied the thought of working in a restaurant before, but the people rock and the atmosphere is really cool! When God blessed me with this job I knew that everything in my life was going to change. This job was the start of a new season of my life. And so it has been one change after another as I settle in to Grand Rapids as a resident, not a GAP student.

I have recently moved in with Sharend Smith from New Life. I rent out the basement downstairs and I love it. Actually, it is pretty spacious and comfortable. Thankfully, Sharend has given me a computer! I am blessed and I look forward to seeing what God is going to do this year with this move.

Now on the down side of things from home in Illinois:

As some of you know I am a cat lover and todays news has led me bummed out. My cat Molly has breat cancer and probably won't make it till the end of the month and my other cat Manny is being put to sleep due to liver failure this weekend. We have had these cats for many many years and they will be missed dearly. So yah people that is a small part of what's going on if anyone still checks this blog. Peace out!

2005-09-11T10:50:00.000-07:00

Behold what I got to give
just me baby all or nothin
put past affairs behind
lets coast towards the future
steerin clear of our old self
walking in good health and wealth
glidin and stridin, hootin and hollerin
given peeps something to chatta about
listen here baby doll, I got no doubt
and the rhythm I'm spittin
awakes the dead amongst the livin
I'm in this for real, no tricks
no teasin baby I got no reason
I'll be with you in every season
I got no motive for leavin
no more frontin baby
you best start believin
I got x-ray vision built for seein
I'm your superwoman
hear to save the day
like air force one baby
target in sight, I'm ready to lock and load
I got a secret weapon
and I move incognito
the ammo I possess is like Lucy Ricardo
what I touch becomes disheveled
leavin all enemies ruptured at the knees
we're buildin a house with the fundementals
what was once shakin
is now yours and mine for the taken
you're my superhero, my superman
the powers you possess
I must confess you got me drownin in a sea of disbelief
leavin my staggered
my hands are tied behind my back
but I got no objection to this altercation
the aftermath will prove to be rejuvinatin
awaitin the time and place
we meet again face to face
upgradin my superpowers with one taste
I need you superman
it takes two to tango
your hand in mine
the missin piece to the puzzle discovered
because of you and I it's recovered
And now let the forces of darkness
be brought to a hault
by the powers that be
you and I, the ties that bond
both superpowers combined
time to stand tall and watch in awe
the end is here the path is clear
I can feel you drawin near
I can't hold back any longer
what lies beneath
God willin makes me stronger
You know the words I yearn to speak
no more games of hide and seek
come closer baby make me complete
there's nothin you and I can't defeat
nothin but clear skys for the elite.

2005-09-04T16:51:00.000-07:00

I believe in LOVE!

How many people believe in love?! Hopefully, both hands and feet are raised to the ceiling on this one. I know mine are. Many people eke their way through life while scouring to find love.

I believe love is more then mere utterances from our lips that sometimes comes from ones wreakless speech. Remember the power of the tounge can be deadly or bring life! As we know, whether friendship, relationship, or family each kind should be centered around Gods love, 1Cor.13! To express the overflow of ones heart comes from the magnitude of love that one receives, which enables us to freely give back from what's inside. At least that's what I think...now don't misunderstand me here, we love our enemies, we love those who persecute us, and most importantly, we love because Christ first loved us! What I am saying however is this, Love is more then just words, it's action and truth as 1Jn.3:18 says so well. Rm. 12:9 also speaks about love accurately. I have asked God to reveal His love to me since I've been a christian as I am sure you have as well. I've endured many hard times having to do with love, but this I know, I have not experienced any kind of love like the love of Christ. I was at the Nofsingers house on Friday and God spoke loud and clear to me when I got home. So much that I couldn't sleep because of the tears that filled my bed.
This is what I would like to share with you. Their was a moment when Karen gazed into her daughters eyes as if she were looking into the depths of her heart, meanwhile so thankful for this magnificant creation that stood before her. Every word that was spoken was a word of faith, adoration, and encouragement. Every touch was gentle, playful, and warm. I wished at that moment that I could have experienced that as a child. A love like that I was never acustomed to knowing. As I exalted the Lord that night He spoke this: I am proud of you, I am behind you, and I am pleased with you. The way Karen looked to her beloved child is the way I look to you with infinitely more as I gaze into your eyes. Bless Him I say and yet again God is faithful to speak those precious words, meanwhile knowing exactly what I needed to hear.

2005-09-04T13:13:00.000-07:00

CELEBRATION WEEKEND!

Another trip to my hometown just around the corner! I will return home the 16th-18th for a celebration of two events. The first being my good friends, Erin Dugan and Sarah Burgess at their house warming party! I am so excited for them in their new home! I know that God will continue to bless everything they put their hands to. The hand of God watches over those He loves and I know that my friends will prosper and see more abundance as time passes! The next event is my nephews 3rd birthday party...uh oh or is it 4th?? Well, being the great auntee that I am I look forward to seeing my beloved niece and nephew, meanwhile spoiling them as much as possible!! Geezzz, I miss them sooo much! Well all, I look forward to my visit home, a time to celebrate Gods goodness and fellowship with those I love. God Bless you and may you live each day looking through the eyes of faith!

2005-08-31T14:24:00.000-07:00

I LOVE BIRDIES!

Red Robin restaurant has offered me a job as a bookkeepper! Opening day starts October 10th in Grand Rapids! What else could Michigan possibly need but more places to eat out. geeezzz... I have to say though, I love Red Robin. I am taking this on full time until January, during that month my position starts to slow down. Eventually, I go down to about 15-20 hrs. a week at which then they will train me to serve or bartend! Ryan(my interviewer) said that I am top priority for getting hours and whatever I want as far as positions go. I guess I can't argue with that!
Time for the Acadamy Awards.....I want to thank God for His faithfulness and support. When all else fails and discouragement comes from the enemy, I can still see the light! I can't and won't give up! I will prosper says the Lord! Yeeeeesss! Amen and God Bless! Next, where will I live as of October 1st? The only thing I know is that God will get the glory for that and my finances as well! Please keep me in your prayers for finances! Amen!!

2005-08-30T12:23:00.000-07:00

The otherside of Freedom!

What are we doing? My eyes have become tainted from the looks of the homeless, druggies, and prostitutes that run on the streets. I took a visit to GRCC this afternoon to do a bit of evangelizing and I couldn't help but want to scream when I look at the life they live. Know one is perfect and we all make mistakes, but what are we doing to help this problem we see everyday? Why do we pass people up on the streets without saying something to them? The longer we go without sharing the more lives we watch suffer as they are given over to the enemy. As I sat in the park in the mist of all this, I just didn't know where to start. Minutes later a gentleman sat down and immediately we began chatting. He went on to tell me that he already had Jesus in his life and that he played the organ at the local church. You can imagine my excitement as the smell of beer drifted my way from under his breath. Needless to say I carried on asking if he had the Holy Spirit as I felt prompted and eventually "Troy" went on about his business and I left. I pray that our hearts will be softened so that we may have the heart of Christ as we go about our days living in freedom while others are a flick away from the pits of hell. Ask God what you can do in your community or city to make sure the Word gets out there. My prayers are with you and hopefully yours with me. We have the privilege of going to the ends of the earth for Jesus, but that won't happen until we reach the surrounding cities first.

2005-08-23T17:45:00.000-07:00

Untitled

As the sun sets and the sky grows dark
my mind takes a turn off road, obsolete
it settles in a remote area and then...it hits!
As my eyes grow weak and my body fatigued
chills saturate my back as I crawl into bed.
The words of my mouth utter thanksgiving to God
as I begin to beg for a peaceful nights rest.
Oh, this gift you've given me of dreams you see
haunts me by night as my mind drifts away
the enemy that seeks my destruction drawers near.
A raging battle starts as the fantasies become realities.
"The blood of Jesus cleansed me I shout!"
The love language of God pours from my quivering lips
the warfare gets stronger and stronger.
Meanwhile, my nights sleep drifting far from peace
In a moments time I am on my knees
dishing out pleas of mercy.
Help oh Lord!
"Endure this fight till the end He says!"
Suddenly, I find faith and a stiring of might from HIs voice
I say, my refuge is here, I've nothing to fear!
"Where you are weak He speaks, I am strong!
Be bold and take heart my child
for this gift is worth the fight!"
At that very moment my eyes are blinded by the light
The battle that once raged in my mind becomes forsaken
The presence of the Lord fills my room almost immediately
and the peace of God rules my mind, yet again.
This constant war that overtakes my head
can only be won by the blood that was shed!

2005-08-23T16:48:00.001-07:00

Who Am I?

I am a form in the flesh
a being that walks, talks, and breathes
a covering for what lies beneath the outside
I am but an incredible life form constructed by God
fabricated by hand, exquistely structured.
Ambiguously my appearence can be alluring externally
while the very essence of my being speaks forth internally.
My Spirit and my soul contend aganst a dying world
against the eyes of man, the onlooker of insolence,
an enemy that seeks my failure night and day.
In my moment of despair, I take heart
recalling to mind the spoken words
of faith that gives me strength
I was made for such a time as this
equipped to triumph over all
through any raging duel that arises
I am a Goliath to those who dare step up
Oh what a fool you are to be superficial
Daring to belittle what you know nothing about?
Do you know who I am?
I am a Heaven sent instrument
made ready to seize the day
I seek approval from only One
The ruler of all, the One who gives me hope
So, who am I?
I am what He who reigns says I am
I am what I am because of Him
I am more then just flesh and bones
more then just mere apperence and makeup
I am the daughter of the Most High
I am an heir to the throne of God
I am a conquer and an overcomer!

2005-08-23T16:38:00.000-07:00

Before I saw the light.

Before the dawn of a new day
I spent my life in vein
searchin for life brought such pain
walkin around weary playin the game
invented, created, manmade to prominade
fancy clothes, fake fortunes, and shiny escalades
gazin into the Heavens
I saw beyond the twinklin stars
listenin for sounds of harps and guitars
I spent too many years of my life
cowerin, sleepless nights of sorrow and strife
lifeless, obsolete, souless, and paralyzed
waistin away, my heart full of lies
a mirror of a dyin world reflected these eyes
striven for greatness in blood sweat and tears
seeking selfish pleasure before I die
racin against the hour glass of time
nothin left but me, myself, and I.

2005-08-23T16:06:00.000-07:00

LIBERATED THROUGH EXPRESSION

Within the last few months I have found freedom in expressing myself in ways I couldn't before. We all know that in todays society everyone freely expresses themselves whether or not we agree with the way they choose to do it or not. Because of freedom of speech we can pretty much say whatever we want. Many judge and even criticize, but freedom of speech is what it is. It is POWER! For many years of my youth I was always aching to get something off my chest, or in other words, to be heard! But isn't that what most people want today, to be heard? I have found through my walk with God and one person in particular that part of who I am comes from the way I express myself as a person. I am who I am, and I can freely express that in different ways that I choose to. My mind couldn't put together the missing pieces back then. Their is significance in letting go on the inside and breaking out with the truth that lies inside us. As we open ourslves up and expose who we are, freedom then reigns inside us! God has given us many unigue qualities and you and I both know that He loves when we express ourselves, as long as it brings glory to His name. Through this friend I had, this person showed me everyday who they were by just being themselves. I think you know who you are. It is right always to give credit where credit is due. So, thank you for being a testimony to me. They also in turn, felt liberated everytime they did what they love to do most. I didn't realize what I needed to do to express myself and unleash what was inside of me. It was confusing and tortured me for a long time. What I have learned is that we have to try new things and see what happens through that. It's that something that gives you relief and releases something in your spirit and your heart. Whatever that may be, I encourage you to find it if you haven't. It could bring you peace, fulfullment, or even open the door to your true calling. On the other hand, If you have found it already, I would encourage you to master it in every way you know how to! Search your soul and release the the passion that dwells in the Spirit.

2005-08-18T17:09:00.000-07:00

What is success?

I think you would agree that success in the Kingdom would be completing the purpose God intended you to fulfill, right?

How do we get there?

In Joshua God told Him to be strong and courageous, right?! When times got tough and Joshua was flat on his face after defeat what did God say to him?
God said, "Get Up!" I was listening to a cd of Andrew Caughy the other day. He said, " we have to brake through the wall." I think we know that life won't hand us a platter of hot, smouldering success. It just doesn't happen that way. As believers we know their is no such thing as luck, coincidences, or lucky charms. However, their is something we do have! Guess what it is? You're CORRECT! We have Gods grace and provision! I think we need to be a proactive people constantly reaching for the stars, exceeding all expectations, and soaring head on against all the odds. Sounds impossible sometimes but that's why we should be alert and ready listening to God at all times. Remember God is a God of all impossibilities and we live in a supernatural world. Any door can open and the best part is it doesn't always have to be unexpected when are ears are just as attentive as the Lords.
We also know that all success comes with enduring hardships. We must always persevere and with that comes character and what is success without perseverence? I don't believe in success without hardships. To be an overcomer you must first overcome something, right? So, ok we are already conquers and victorious so lets overcome ALL circumstances. To persevere is to win and to win is to have victory!

2005-08-14T14:54:00.000-07:00

St. Charles full of the Spirit!

I had the privilege to visit St. Charles this weekend. I love coming back every once in a while to visit. It is great to see that the Spirit is moving and the annointing of God is there among the church. Worship was incredible and i am very proud of the growth and maturity coming to the Bride of Christ. My prayers are with them and I look forward to my next visit. Shout out to all my homies in St. Charles! Love you all!

2005-08-14T14:44:00.000-07:00

OUTREACH IN GRAND RAPIDS!

The life group in Grand Rapids is having an out reach to the community this month. I believe for those interested the date is the 21st of August. Anyway, this"out reach" is consisted of evangelism, face painting, games, fellowship, and more. This is definitely a great way to get the gospel out there. I am personally excited to go and be apart of this! All are welcome to come and I hope to see some familiar faces from the body out there! Love, peace, and chicken grease! (sick sorry i think thats got Caleb written all over it)

2005-08-12T20:38:00.000-07:00

Home Sweet Home...not Alabama

Well I arrived home Friday or today for those of you reading the blog now. It is so weird everytime I come home to visit. Another home away from home. Grandma went to the doc, and we should here back in about 2 weeks on the results. Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers. Love all of you soo much......yes, even you Quakerboy.

2005-08-10T14:00:00.000-07:00

I NEED YOUR PRAYERS OF FAITH!

I received a call today from my mom in Illinois. She explained to me that my grandma would be going to the doctor because she has a lump on her ear and her neck is swollen. She is also complaining of back pains. I am not sure many of you know this, but this could be a sign of lyimphoma cancer. About a year and a half ago my twin sister finished remission from this same thing. After going through kemo and other treatments, she reamins in good health. Thank God! My grandma also has altzimerze. (don't know how to spell that) I don't think she knows Jesus. Please pray that God will deliver her from ALL sickness and for her salvation. I hope to visit home soon. Please keep her in your prayers. But please only those prayers of faith! Thank you.

2005-08-10T13:47:00.000-07:00

SIN

I was thinking today about sin. Do we think about how it makes our Father feel when we do something we shouldn't? PICTURE THIS:

You, dressed in the finest linen, a crown on your head, a staff, and covered in the finest jewelery. There you remain on a platform looking like a King or Queen dressed like royalty. Your head held high gazzing to Father as he smiles at you with pleasure in His eyes. Suddenly, sin enters you and you begin to take off the crown of life that is yours. Next, you begin to comprimise with sin and before you know it, their goes your staff and jewelery. Not long after that goes your fine linen as you continue in sin! Eventually, you've stepped down from your platform of righteousness and away from the Father. This sounds frightning, but it happens, their you stand in the midst of our enemy, and their he is smiling as you've given in to sin yet again. Picture this everytime you come close to sin. And remember, when we stay holy like our Father we can go from glory to glory with him.

2005-08-05T08:21:00.000-07:00

WEEKEND UPDATE

Saturday we celebrate the unity of Linsey and James! It should be a fabulous wedding. I'll be sure to take to great pics for the blog! Today I figure out how to work my camera! I 'll be sure to post pics today!

David and Caleb return to Grand Rapids today. Tonight we are having a bit of GAP reunion at Kassies for some good eatin and reminising of old times. Although I am not sure what Caleb and Melody are up to, oh well good times with good friends.

2005-08-03T13:18:00.000-07:00

ANGELS EVERYWHERE

One thing God has pressed into me is to constantly be ready and alert waiting with a watchful eye. One gift God has given me is spiritual eyes to see in the supernatural. Their are many occasions when I see in the Spirit. I have seen angels, the back of Jesus walking, and lights from Heaven. I can say this humbly because I would like to think that every spirit-filled christian has experienced something supernatual. If anything we live in the supernatual so it isn't odd when we experience these things. Anyway I wanted to share what happened at Wood Source while I worked there for the two days.
As I was waiting for Loren Nofsinger to come downstairs and talk with me, I waited there content and peaceful. Then, Loren walked in, but not alone. As you know we are constantly surrounded by a crowd of witnesses, and this surley was the case last Wednesday. Immediately following Loren came the presence of an angel. My spiritual glasses were immediately put on. I saw him following Loren into the room. As we began to talk I also saw an angels wing beside me and heavenly lights around the room. Their was definetely more then one angel there with us that day. Our conversation was pleasaz nt and calm. It's amazing to live in the realm that we live in. A reminder to all that wherever you go and whatever you do the Lord is there with a crowd of witnesses. His promises are true that He never leaves or forsakes you.
EPHESHIANS 1:3-Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ that has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the Heavenly realms.

2005-08-03T11:22:00.000-07:00

Just a comment: Jesus is the source of all healing. Life doesn't have to be hard. With Jesus, He makes it easier to live life knowing we have Him on our side walking with us step by step. If youre reading this and don't know Jesus let someone who knows Jesus lead you into eternal life, truth and joy with the Father whos name is above all else and never fails.

2005-08-03T11:07:00.000-07:00

LOOK OUT TINA TURNER !

Wow is all I can say about Linseys bachelor party. It was a great time and she was so surprised to see all of us. I was very blessed just to be apart of it. After cruising in the limo for a while we made out way in luxury to the Village Inn for some fun and Cherokee. All I can say about that night for me was this: First, the slit I had in the back of my dress was up far enough almost to my butt, then after sitting in the limo in my tight enough dress the slit got bigger until my butt was hanging out of my dress. After laughing it up Charity was at the scene ready with the camera. Hopefully that picture isn't floating around somewhere! It was so funny, good thing I have a sense of humor or that could have been embarassing! ;0)
After the poperazzie left me we went inside and because I looked like Tina Turner that night it was only right that I sang a song, which I did with a little dance as well. It was great! Later, me, Melody, and Lindsey sang a Dion song. My heart will go on which was a great way to end the night. The girls are a riot and I had a blast. Out of everything that night I just wanted Linsey to have a good time AND I THINK SHE DID. Kassie has great pic on her sight. If I ever figure out how to work my camera I will publish pics to.

2005-08-02T08:50:00.000-07:00

THE HOLY SPIRIT MOVES AGAIN!

I have a short testimony of the Spirit moving in my life. Sometimes with the busyness of life we can get so busy. Saturday I didn't get much time in the presence of God or really pray about what He wanted me to bring to Sundays meeting. After repenting the next morning on my way to church, God spoke. As the presence of God filled my car all I could feel was his affection towards me. The feelings he has towards me and you are overwhelming! Nothing compares to the feeling of knowing that Jesus loves you. During the meeting Anglea Hughes gave a prophetic word about Gods feelings toward us. All I could do was praise God for His mercy and worship Him in spirit and truth because he is so AMAZING! If we aren't standing in awe of God everyday then we have a problem. Even after repenting and finding Gods endless grace, he refreshed me and swept me off my feet, yet again. I love intamacy with Him. Who could resist that? Not me!!

2005-07-30T11:11:00.000-07:00

IHOP

I am sure that most people have heard of IHOP, the so called restaurant. Which in my opinion, if you are going with an appetite to get sick then head on up there for some good eatin!
Anyway, IHOP is also a place where believers get together ready to hear what God is saying. Their is intercessory like you wouldn't believe! I went to IHOP once long ago and I was overwhelmed by such a passion these people had to be in Gods presence. It was unbelievable and unforgetable! As believers we should be constantly seeking opportunities to hear the Word or get with all believers, especially to pray. I am excited to get the chance to return to IHOP. I know God will speak and His Holy presence will fill that place because of a reverent fear that overtakes their hearts. Nothing is better then meeting with our God. I encourage all of you to seek God everyday in all you do. Otherwise, what are you doing ?? Our mission or "purpose" is to be like Christ. How can we possibly do that if we aren't engulfed in Kingdom living??? Those interested in going their is a IHOP in Holland, which is kinda far, but worth the trip. I will go to the ends of the earth to meet with Jesus if that's what we have to do. Let me know if you are interested in going.

2005-07-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

LATEST BOOK

Paula VanDuine borrowed me a book called THE NAME OF JESUS a few months back when I was facing somethings. Until this week I finally cracked it open and started to read it. All I can say is WOW! I believe that God highlighted this to me because of what's been going on in my mind lately. Again the mind vs. the heart. My heart is for Jesus and only God knows the high expectations I have about my future with Him. Like I have said several times before I am not here to play church! So this book by Kenneth E. Hagin is several years old, but the Power of His Holy Name is real! It's not in the prayer that we pray that the power comes, but in His Name that the power comes! Jesus! In His name all things are possible! Do we really understand that? Sometimes I think we don't. Dwell on the name of Jesus for a second, speak it out loud...............ok times up, did you feel that power in His name? I sure did. I highly recommend this book!

2005-07-29T11:38:00.000-07:00

HEART VS. MIND

In one corner weighting some lbs is Harry the Heart! In the other corner outweighing the heart stands Micky the Mind!! Ding Ding goes the bell and the fight begins. Hears the play by play action, the heart gets some good foot movement going on, moving step by step leading with truth. Around the corner creeps the mind sneaking up on Harry in his blind spot! Oh nooo....Micky knocks Harry out. He's down for the count! The ref begins the count..1...2...3...4...5...6...7...8...9...10! Micky the mind is champ of this fight ladies and gentleman!

Hope you all got a visual out of that one. My point is that everyday we are involved in a boxing match. Our contender is always on the prowel waiting for the perfect moment to sweep you off your feet to fall face flat on the mat. Make sure what's in your heart(the word of God) is also transfered into your mind. They have to be on the same team or we will loose. Granted it is the challenge of a life time, but remember we already won the battle!! The champion belt is ours! All we are required to do is walk it out. We can do it! Ask God to help transform the renewing in your mind. The first step of motion has to be us and as we are faithful to do that, Gods grace is their for the rest. So I am learning these days and the days to come.

2005-07-29T11:24:00.000-07:00

THE LATEST!

So here it is, I have been job hunting for alomst three weeks now. I have had two offers for an immediate position only to find out they pay commision. The hunt still continues, but I have some really good leads. God has placed me here and I know that he will provide a job for me as well.

FUTURE PLANS

According to the job that i receive, my goal is to get my own apartment. It is exciting, but a lot needs to happen in order for that to work out. FORTUNATELY, GOD IS A GOD OF MIRACLES! Nothing has happened yet, but my trust is in God to provide what I need in His mighty name! :0) What's the latest miracle thats happened to you??

DEVOTION DOES MATTER

On Friday nights at 7pm at the church their is a devotion matters meeting head up by the fabulous Debbie and Ben James. John Bevere has a set vidoes that are outstanding on devotion with Jesus. While on the GAP team I had the privilege of watching these videos. Because the Holy Spirit did such a work in me I am going again to see what else God wants to say to me about my devoltion time with him. How is your devotion time with God??? The Lords kindness leads us to repentance. If you haven't been keeping up on your daily devotion time i would encourage you to simply repent and seek His face.

2005-07-23T12:54:00.000-07:00

Who are You?

I realized something while pondering over so many things yesterday. Without a job, i have a lot of time on my hands to think. Outside i sat on the porch in the muggy heat as evening rolled around. I knew that at any moment like clock work a women would be walking by with her dog. Which is the cutest sight to see. (If you sit out in front around 8:00pm till it gets dark it is the most beauitful sight in the world.) Anyway, scenes from my life flashed before me. Revelation and clarity started pouring out from me why I was placed in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
I must be honest with all of you so that you know where i came from and how good God truley is. All glory to God for his hand upon my life.
You see, I grew up in a comforted lifestyle, but i had a lot of "self" problems. I think you all know what i mean. (Mabey i was just self absobed!) I had fun as a child, but i was also very sheltered as well. I was scared of being the real me, whatever that was. Part of who i was and am was hidding in the back of my dusty, carotid attic, internally i was bruised and wounded. I never really knew me. Around certain people i have noticed different things come out of you. Some have the ability to just pull nuggets out of you while others can do the complete opposite. I have learned the importance of guarding your heart. Our identity in Christ is the most important thing we have. Everything else, our interests, hobbies, and passions are an added bonus to who we are. It is what makes each of us so unique and different. I guess what i am trying to say is that some people spend all their life wondering and wandering in search of who they are. I have been their and done that.
What i have learned is that as Christians we need to be well rounded people. Opening our minds and our hearts is key to winning poeple. As we continue in our search to know Jesus more and more, who we are will come out. He will sometimes, as I know will force things out of you. As i proceed to the next chapter of my glorious life, I take it in stride, i move with perseverence, and i hold my head up high while thanking God for making me who i am. Who are you when no one is around? In todays world, identity is everything. Know who you are and don't try to fit into the mold society has made. My heart aches when i see these young people striving to "keep up" with the crowd. Things would be extremely different if we had more leaders than followers.
Imagine the possibilities