I am amazed at how easily I can slip into that place of self-sufficiency – staying busy taking care of important and necessary details of life, but forgetting the most important thing; sitting at my Father’s feet.
This past Wednesday night, I was reminded of how Peter and the boys were blessed after they were honest in answering Jesus’ question; have you any fish? Most fisherman – I learned – do not like to admit they haven’t caught any fish after being out on the water for any length of time, it could imply they don’t know what they are doing.
What a revelation to me – I had to come to the feet of Jesus and admit I don’t know what I am doing – my nets are empty. As I poured out my heart before him regarding our new journey of unknowns, peace flooded my soul and I was able to relax for the first time in weeks.
My “To Do” list is still long, but now I face it with ease, first spending time with my Lord, trusting him to fill my “net” with my daily needs and knowing he will make the path clear when it is time to take the next step.
When Jesus taught us how to pray, I don’t think it was a mistake when he said, “give us day by day, our daily bread”. One day at a time is enough.
If you have been running on empty pretending to be full, stop. Spend time at the feet of Jesus, admit your net is emtpy and let him fill it with the proper fuel.
Blessings to you! T
Showing posts with label Life Application. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Life Application. Show all posts
Aug 8, 2009
Apr 24, 2009
A Weekend Away Brings New Perspective and Tools for Daily Living
Greetings my dear friends!
This past weekend I was blessed to go to the coast for a weekend away with the gals (about 40). The theme for our retreat was "Calm in the Storm". Such an appropriate title for many of us these days.
The Theme verses was, "They Cried out..God stilled the storm to a whisper..." Psalm 107:28 & 29
Can you imagine God calming our storms to a whisper if we would only stop and cry out to him instead of trying to row our own boat - this may be fine when there is a gentle stream, but when life is anything but a dream...
Much of the point was calling on God before the storms come. Having a close relationship with our Father especially when times are good, so that we are better prepared for the storm. The great thing about God, though, is that even if we wait, he is faithful to respond.
I pray we will all draw near to God at all times! Pray without ceasing and keep our spiritual muscles in shape!
I wanted to share a short article I wrote about this weekend, which includes a "survival kit for everyday" that was passed out to us at the retreat. Click here to read. Feel free to print that list out if it blesses you
May God bless you and may you feel his loving arms around you!
Hugs, Teresa
This past weekend I was blessed to go to the coast for a weekend away with the gals (about 40). The theme for our retreat was "Calm in the Storm". Such an appropriate title for many of us these days.
The Theme verses was, "They Cried out..God stilled the storm to a whisper..." Psalm 107:28 & 29
Can you imagine God calming our storms to a whisper if we would only stop and cry out to him instead of trying to row our own boat - this may be fine when there is a gentle stream, but when life is anything but a dream...
Much of the point was calling on God before the storms come. Having a close relationship with our Father especially when times are good, so that we are better prepared for the storm. The great thing about God, though, is that even if we wait, he is faithful to respond.
I pray we will all draw near to God at all times! Pray without ceasing and keep our spiritual muscles in shape!
I wanted to share a short article I wrote about this weekend, which includes a "survival kit for everyday" that was passed out to us at the retreat. Click here to read. Feel free to print that list out if it blesses you
May God bless you and may you feel his loving arms around you!
Hugs, Teresa
Dec 29, 2008
Last Year's New Years Resolution: How did we do--and a Prayer for 2009
Today is December 27, 2008. All is quiet and peaceful-the calm after the storm of Christmas--giving me opportunity to reflect on these past 12 months.
I was drawn to the personal note on the January 2008 Issue of, "Be Ready", the monthly newsletter of In Season Ministries. The following is what I wrote:
"Dear friends and family in Christ,
Today is January 4, 2008. As I sit here and write, I wonder about the many New Years resolutions that have been made, and especially how many more have been or will be broken. As for me, I made one on December 31 st -kept it on January 1st-2nd, then broke it on January 3 rd . Sigh. I just cannot seem to get myself up any earlier than 5:00am to work out. So here you have it; excuse number one: I just cannot get up. More accurately, I chose not to get up."
"As I thought about the reality of breaking my resolution, I realize everything we do involves choice--so I made a new resolution: a choice. One I feel I should have no problem wanting to keep. I choose to be more like Christ at the end of this year than I am today. This starts by reading more of God's word and less of Ted Dekker. It also means not looking back at the past year and relishing my accomplishments and blessings--and thankfully, it means not looking back on last year's heartache. I am not talking about looking back with a sense of joy, or sigh of relief, but I am talking about turning our heads so far backward that we cannot see the blessings and opportunities that are set before us."
"Two Scriptures come to my mind as I consider this new commitment: No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.' (Luke 9:62) and, "Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead.' (Philippians 3:13)"
"Whatever your New Years Resolution, I pray it will include a commitment to draw closer to the Lord this year, and that it will be one you keep. May the Lord be with each one of us-may we pursue Him with everything that is within us! Love in Jesus, Teresa."
The question then, is how did I do? Am I more like Jesus now than I was at the beginning of the year?
After an honest assessment of my over all behavior and attitude, I can answer with a yes. I have been given many opportunities to exercise unconditional love and forgiveness and plenty of times when I had to give up my "right" to be right, for the sake of another's well-being and peace of mind. Please don't misunderstand, this was never an easy task. There were many tears and challenges along the way. Nevertheless, the outcome always involved peace and the ability to move forward without bitterness in my heart. I suspect this year will bring new opportunities to be more like Christ. There are already a few in the works. This time, it involves being more concerned with what God thinks than what others think and doing what is right over what is popular. You see, being more like Jesus doesn't require me to be perfect, just willing.
As for the working-out and having that rock solid-wonder woman figure, well, not so much. That is just fine with me, the beauty within will just have to keep getting better to hide the imperfections of this tattered body.
How about you--how did you do?
Here we are at the end of 2008, filled with its share of joy and pain. What will we choose for 2009. Will we pursue the better job or the bigger house--what about the better body? These are not bad in themselves, but at what cost?
On the other hand, why not pursue love, grace, kindness and putting others before ourselves. These attributes belong to all of humanity-religion aside. These are things all of us can all chose in the New Year. Then maybe, just maybe, all those other things we seek might fall into place, and if not, it won't kill us.
If your heart desires, please pray with me:
Heavenly Father,
May this be a year of strong fellowship for all-restore relationships, bring new friendships our way. Help us to move forward in excitement for the new things you have planned. Give us the grace to let go of the past and put it behind us. May we have true forgiveness in our hearts so that we do not continue to carry the past on our shoulders. Help us to look to this New Year with a clean slate. Turn our hearts toward the things that matter to you and the One who can give us the courage to do so. Finally Father, help us to set aside our accomplishments in this past year, so we have room for the new you have in store.
In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.
Teresa Ortiz
I was drawn to the personal note on the January 2008 Issue of, "Be Ready", the monthly newsletter of In Season Ministries. The following is what I wrote:
"Dear friends and family in Christ,
Today is January 4, 2008. As I sit here and write, I wonder about the many New Years resolutions that have been made, and especially how many more have been or will be broken. As for me, I made one on December 31 st -kept it on January 1st-2nd, then broke it on January 3 rd . Sigh. I just cannot seem to get myself up any earlier than 5:00am to work out. So here you have it; excuse number one: I just cannot get up. More accurately, I chose not to get up."
"As I thought about the reality of breaking my resolution, I realize everything we do involves choice--so I made a new resolution: a choice. One I feel I should have no problem wanting to keep. I choose to be more like Christ at the end of this year than I am today. This starts by reading more of God's word and less of Ted Dekker. It also means not looking back at the past year and relishing my accomplishments and blessings--and thankfully, it means not looking back on last year's heartache. I am not talking about looking back with a sense of joy, or sigh of relief, but I am talking about turning our heads so far backward that we cannot see the blessings and opportunities that are set before us."
"Two Scriptures come to my mind as I consider this new commitment: No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.' (Luke 9:62) and, "Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead.' (Philippians 3:13)"
"Whatever your New Years Resolution, I pray it will include a commitment to draw closer to the Lord this year, and that it will be one you keep. May the Lord be with each one of us-may we pursue Him with everything that is within us! Love in Jesus, Teresa."
The question then, is how did I do? Am I more like Jesus now than I was at the beginning of the year?
After an honest assessment of my over all behavior and attitude, I can answer with a yes. I have been given many opportunities to exercise unconditional love and forgiveness and plenty of times when I had to give up my "right" to be right, for the sake of another's well-being and peace of mind. Please don't misunderstand, this was never an easy task. There were many tears and challenges along the way. Nevertheless, the outcome always involved peace and the ability to move forward without bitterness in my heart. I suspect this year will bring new opportunities to be more like Christ. There are already a few in the works. This time, it involves being more concerned with what God thinks than what others think and doing what is right over what is popular. You see, being more like Jesus doesn't require me to be perfect, just willing.
As for the working-out and having that rock solid-wonder woman figure, well, not so much. That is just fine with me, the beauty within will just have to keep getting better to hide the imperfections of this tattered body.
How about you--how did you do?
Here we are at the end of 2008, filled with its share of joy and pain. What will we choose for 2009. Will we pursue the better job or the bigger house--what about the better body? These are not bad in themselves, but at what cost?
On the other hand, why not pursue love, grace, kindness and putting others before ourselves. These attributes belong to all of humanity-religion aside. These are things all of us can all chose in the New Year. Then maybe, just maybe, all those other things we seek might fall into place, and if not, it won't kill us.
If your heart desires, please pray with me:
Heavenly Father,
May this be a year of strong fellowship for all-restore relationships, bring new friendships our way. Help us to move forward in excitement for the new things you have planned. Give us the grace to let go of the past and put it behind us. May we have true forgiveness in our hearts so that we do not continue to carry the past on our shoulders. Help us to look to this New Year with a clean slate. Turn our hearts toward the things that matter to you and the One who can give us the courage to do so. Finally Father, help us to set aside our accomplishments in this past year, so we have room for the new you have in store.
In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.
Teresa Ortiz
Dec 7, 2008
Plain Talk about Abortion: a Personal Story
Lately there has been no escaping the topic of abortion. We have the pro-choicer, pro-lifer, and enough statistics to make anyone puke.
I am so tired of all the politics--should it be legal--should it be illegal. Does it really matter? Abortion and the attitude toward it are not going to change with the making of law. Since when has law affected real change on the inside? Who in our government speaks of a change of heart? Isn't that where it all starts?
We will never see this happen because if we keep ourselves busy debating law and statistics, there is no time to talk about the heart of man.
I have remained silent in this arena for many reasons, one being I hate political and statistical debates and frankly, they get on and in my nerves more than anything else does.
Nevertheless, my heart is breaking and I can no longer remain silent. It's not the millions of babies that make me speak out, it's that there has been one. Isn't one enough? If I may be selfish for a moment, isn't mine enough?
I prefer talking about the lighter things in life. When I write or teach, it's generally on the side of humor. Humor is a funny thing--it's not as easily accepted in the Christian world. I'm not sure why. It's like some Christians don't want others to think they are not spiritually profound or well versed in the Bible or something. Heaven forbid we should have a light-hearted story to share the truth of God as He works in everyday life.
I say this because if you have read anything I have written so far, you've noticed that my tone is different. I can be sober-I can cut to the heart of a matter. I suppose this is one of those times.
Therefore, I will take you back in time-join me in the waiting room with seven other teens. You are sitting there in silence, scared out of your mind, feeling all alone. Then you spot a girl from school. You know, the popular one-the model-the cheerleader. You make eye contact from across the room and suddenly you have a friend-a friend who is your enemy at school. Why is this? Because no way is she going back to school on Monday to tell her friends where she spent her Friday night, nor are you.
Sitting in the lounge chair designed for your comfort, the nurse brings you some muscle relaxers. She smiles a warm smile and tells you that everything is going to be okay. You are anxiously awaiting your turn as if you were auditioning for a role in a horror movie, it would seem the case as you get a good look at the face of the girl who exits the room while the nurse calls your name.
Feel the cold bed pressed against your back as you put your feet in the stirrups…
Walk with me into the recovery room-listen to the wailing and crying coming from the other girls, listen to your own. Fortunately, you don't have to listen for long because it only takes 15-minutes to recover. Just 15-minutes to forget the sound of the sloshing vacuum. 15-minutes to wipe your eyes, leave the building and start your weekend.
The smiling nurse has no time or need to comfort you with a hug on your way out the door; she is too busy handing out a fresh batch of muscle relaxers-although sweet as she is, she doesn't let you walk out empty-handed. She gives you a brown bag of goodies that will reduce your chances of a return visit.
~~~~~
So how is this for a statistic-how about sharing this story on T.V.? Oh, sure there are organizations out there to help a woman deal with the consequences of her choice to murder her unborn child--what about help to make a better choice to begin with?
Still, this doesn't do anything to solve the problem. We need to get back to the root of the problem and that is Sin. It all boils down to sin. No premarital sex as a teen or adult and we solve a big portion of the problem. The rest of the problem would be solved if men stopped raping and molesting women. Sin, it's all about sin.
At the very least, there should be a law that requires full disclosure of the medical procedure and the developmental stages of an unborn child be made available to the one who is considering ending the life of her child. It still amazes me that my husband was required to have one counseling session and watch a video before the hospital would approve his vasectomy. "Are you sure you want to do this Mr. Ortiz? It is a near impossibility to have the procedure reversed". Wow! I would say it is 100% impossible to have the abortion procedure reversed. In addition, if my son were to get in a car accident, the hospital could not treat him without my consent. Weird how an under aged girl can go through a life-changing medical procedure without her parents knowledge and signature.
Weird.
How would you like to take a second trip to Planned Parenthood with me? The brown bag of goodies didn't do me any good…
Repentance, grace, knowledge, love, and education are going to be the end of abortion. A few stories like mine from the candidates might help, but mine will never be told-because I am a nobody, of no influence or money. I am therefore, a statistic.
Obviously this isn't going to happen so what do we do? We stop debating and start praying for change. If you have been moved by my story, share it with someone who has influence. I am convinced if teens and women were told the truth about abortion, the law wouldn't matter, because they would choose something different. Maybe not all, but one-isn't one enough?
For some of you, this wasn't your only trip to Planned Parenthood (Ha! Planned Parenthood-there's a deadly joke for you) If you are looking for help and freedom from guilt or if you just want to read a poem of forgiveness and healing, click here.
© Teresa Ortiz 2008
I am so tired of all the politics--should it be legal--should it be illegal. Does it really matter? Abortion and the attitude toward it are not going to change with the making of law. Since when has law affected real change on the inside? Who in our government speaks of a change of heart? Isn't that where it all starts?
We will never see this happen because if we keep ourselves busy debating law and statistics, there is no time to talk about the heart of man.
I have remained silent in this arena for many reasons, one being I hate political and statistical debates and frankly, they get on and in my nerves more than anything else does.
Nevertheless, my heart is breaking and I can no longer remain silent. It's not the millions of babies that make me speak out, it's that there has been one. Isn't one enough? If I may be selfish for a moment, isn't mine enough?
I prefer talking about the lighter things in life. When I write or teach, it's generally on the side of humor. Humor is a funny thing--it's not as easily accepted in the Christian world. I'm not sure why. It's like some Christians don't want others to think they are not spiritually profound or well versed in the Bible or something. Heaven forbid we should have a light-hearted story to share the truth of God as He works in everyday life.
I say this because if you have read anything I have written so far, you've noticed that my tone is different. I can be sober-I can cut to the heart of a matter. I suppose this is one of those times.
Therefore, I will take you back in time-join me in the waiting room with seven other teens. You are sitting there in silence, scared out of your mind, feeling all alone. Then you spot a girl from school. You know, the popular one-the model-the cheerleader. You make eye contact from across the room and suddenly you have a friend-a friend who is your enemy at school. Why is this? Because no way is she going back to school on Monday to tell her friends where she spent her Friday night, nor are you.
Sitting in the lounge chair designed for your comfort, the nurse brings you some muscle relaxers. She smiles a warm smile and tells you that everything is going to be okay. You are anxiously awaiting your turn as if you were auditioning for a role in a horror movie, it would seem the case as you get a good look at the face of the girl who exits the room while the nurse calls your name.
Feel the cold bed pressed against your back as you put your feet in the stirrups…
Walk with me into the recovery room-listen to the wailing and crying coming from the other girls, listen to your own. Fortunately, you don't have to listen for long because it only takes 15-minutes to recover. Just 15-minutes to forget the sound of the sloshing vacuum. 15-minutes to wipe your eyes, leave the building and start your weekend.
The smiling nurse has no time or need to comfort you with a hug on your way out the door; she is too busy handing out a fresh batch of muscle relaxers-although sweet as she is, she doesn't let you walk out empty-handed. She gives you a brown bag of goodies that will reduce your chances of a return visit.
~~~~~
So how is this for a statistic-how about sharing this story on T.V.? Oh, sure there are organizations out there to help a woman deal with the consequences of her choice to murder her unborn child--what about help to make a better choice to begin with?
Still, this doesn't do anything to solve the problem. We need to get back to the root of the problem and that is Sin. It all boils down to sin. No premarital sex as a teen or adult and we solve a big portion of the problem. The rest of the problem would be solved if men stopped raping and molesting women. Sin, it's all about sin.
At the very least, there should be a law that requires full disclosure of the medical procedure and the developmental stages of an unborn child be made available to the one who is considering ending the life of her child. It still amazes me that my husband was required to have one counseling session and watch a video before the hospital would approve his vasectomy. "Are you sure you want to do this Mr. Ortiz? It is a near impossibility to have the procedure reversed". Wow! I would say it is 100% impossible to have the abortion procedure reversed. In addition, if my son were to get in a car accident, the hospital could not treat him without my consent. Weird how an under aged girl can go through a life-changing medical procedure without her parents knowledge and signature.
Weird.
How would you like to take a second trip to Planned Parenthood with me? The brown bag of goodies didn't do me any good…
Repentance, grace, knowledge, love, and education are going to be the end of abortion. A few stories like mine from the candidates might help, but mine will never be told-because I am a nobody, of no influence or money. I am therefore, a statistic.
Obviously this isn't going to happen so what do we do? We stop debating and start praying for change. If you have been moved by my story, share it with someone who has influence. I am convinced if teens and women were told the truth about abortion, the law wouldn't matter, because they would choose something different. Maybe not all, but one-isn't one enough?
For some of you, this wasn't your only trip to Planned Parenthood (Ha! Planned Parenthood-there's a deadly joke for you) If you are looking for help and freedom from guilt or if you just want to read a poem of forgiveness and healing, click here.
© Teresa Ortiz 2008
If Only for a Moment (A poem of healing from abortion)
They didn't tell me you had a beating heart;
they told me you were a mass of tissue.
They didn't tell me I would cry for you 24-years later,
they told me it was nothing-you were nothing.
The room was cold-so-so cold.
Just relax, they said, there's nothing to it.
Staring in silence-screaming inside with no place to hide, nowhere to run.
Relax I say, soon you will be out having fun.
Life went on-for me that is.
Would it matter if I told you your father and I married?
Is that any consolation?
How many pregnancies, how many live births?
The question stings, I wonder if acid would soothe the burn.
Then one day I heard your sister's heartbeat for the very first time;
You were just her age when yours beat for the very last time.
What have I done? In an instant, you were real.
Would it make a difference if I told you I mourn for you still?
My Lord is gracious, forgiving and kind
He took you in His arms when I chose not to hold you in mine.
One hope I hold dear to my heart; that my Lord Jesus would
grant me one wish-one delight.
To hold you in my arms if only for a moment
and feel the love of both of you.
~~~~
Do you have a silent cry? God will forgive you and heal your broken heart. You don't have to bear the guilt and shame any longer. Never be alone again. Share your heart. I am listening and I care.
I have spoken to many women who feel they don't deserve to have children so they haven't. Other women cannot have children because of the damage done as a result. Then there is the mother who feels guilty at times delighting in the children she was blessed with later in life. Abortion is not an easy out. It may seem like it at the time, but the effects will last a lifetime.
If you are pregnant and considering abortion, please seek other alternatives, don't listen to the lies. It will be hard, but you can learn to be a good mom. There are agencies to help you. Teen Moms is a great resource.
http://teenmominternational.org/
I am here to help. Write me anytime.
Love Teresa, Love Jesus.
© Teresa Ortiz 2008 All Rights Reserved.
they told me you were a mass of tissue.
They didn't tell me I would cry for you 24-years later,
they told me it was nothing-you were nothing.
The room was cold-so-so cold.
Just relax, they said, there's nothing to it.
Staring in silence-screaming inside with no place to hide, nowhere to run.
Relax I say, soon you will be out having fun.
Life went on-for me that is.
Would it matter if I told you your father and I married?
Is that any consolation?
How many pregnancies, how many live births?
The question stings, I wonder if acid would soothe the burn.
Then one day I heard your sister's heartbeat for the very first time;
You were just her age when yours beat for the very last time.
What have I done? In an instant, you were real.
Would it make a difference if I told you I mourn for you still?
My Lord is gracious, forgiving and kind
He took you in His arms when I chose not to hold you in mine.
One hope I hold dear to my heart; that my Lord Jesus would
grant me one wish-one delight.
To hold you in my arms if only for a moment
and feel the love of both of you.
~~~~
Do you have a silent cry? God will forgive you and heal your broken heart. You don't have to bear the guilt and shame any longer. Never be alone again. Share your heart. I am listening and I care.
I have spoken to many women who feel they don't deserve to have children so they haven't. Other women cannot have children because of the damage done as a result. Then there is the mother who feels guilty at times delighting in the children she was blessed with later in life. Abortion is not an easy out. It may seem like it at the time, but the effects will last a lifetime.
If you are pregnant and considering abortion, please seek other alternatives, don't listen to the lies. It will be hard, but you can learn to be a good mom. There are agencies to help you. Teen Moms is a great resource.
http://teenmominternational.org/
I am here to help. Write me anytime.
Love Teresa, Love Jesus.
© Teresa Ortiz 2008 All Rights Reserved.
Nov 27, 2008
Hppy - Sad- Joyful
My mind is a whirlwind, my heart torn in two-one minute happy, the next one blue.
Hey, sounds like a poem- a poet maybe? Nah, better not quit my day job.
I think I'll just write a little-never mind rhymes and grammar, just a way to organize my thoughts.
Next Thursday my husband will be leaving for Arizona. He was offered a job a few weeks ago and we have been praying and debating if this was God's answer to prayer. Funny how it works sometimes. I feel like Gideon, we layed out our fleece before God- Lord, if it's your will, make it clear, if nothing comes up here at home, we will know it's your way of providing. Days go by, nothing comes up- Lord, please bring work in, what's going on?
I can almost hear God saying, "Duh, I gave you the answer, what more do you want"? Okay, so maybe God didn't say duh, but I'm pretty sure the answer was clear.
So here we are, preparing for him to leave. We have never been apart longer than 2 weeks-and that didn't work out to well for us being he came home with a TATTOO, not that I have issues with that, all has been forgiven. In fact I have my appointment set for my Budweiser tattoo Friday morning. (Not really, but sounded good.)
I am happy for God's amazing provision. I am excited about the bigger picture. But then it is in my nature to always look at the bigger picture-some accuse me of not living for today, but for me, I can't live for today without it. Especially in this case. Not looking ahead at exciting possibilities would only cause me to look at God and say, why would you take him so far away? Why not give him a job here at home-I don't get you.
But then I am sad because I am going to miss being with him at the end of everyday. It's my comfortable routine and this will not be the case for quite sometime. I don't mean to whine, I know many of you have done this and are doing it know, but it is all new for me.
My son is already stepping up. Art is going over everything and making sure we will be equipped to deal with the uncertainty of winter in Oregon.
To make myself feel better, I have made a list of things I will do to keep busy in the evenings:
1. Catch up on my list of books to read.
2. Dust off the treadmill, put the junk away, stand on it and consider turning it on.
3. Unpack the last of the boxes from our move.
4. Catch up on my list of books to read.
5. Write another Bible study.
6. Stand on the clean treadmill, turn it on, then turn it off.
7. Go out on a date or two with my boyfri-I mean son. (Don't be startin' rumors.)
8. Thank God for my incredible husband for his willingness to provide for his family.
9. Stand on the clean treadmill, turn it on, keep it on and get in great shape for my gorgeous hunk of a construction worker husband.
10. Rejoice in the Lord for His goodness.
Okay, I am done rambling. Thanks for listening and bear with me these next few months as my stories go from happy to sad to joyful.
Teresa Ortiz
Hey, sounds like a poem- a poet maybe? Nah, better not quit my day job.
I think I'll just write a little-never mind rhymes and grammar, just a way to organize my thoughts.
Next Thursday my husband will be leaving for Arizona. He was offered a job a few weeks ago and we have been praying and debating if this was God's answer to prayer. Funny how it works sometimes. I feel like Gideon, we layed out our fleece before God- Lord, if it's your will, make it clear, if nothing comes up here at home, we will know it's your way of providing. Days go by, nothing comes up- Lord, please bring work in, what's going on?
I can almost hear God saying, "Duh, I gave you the answer, what more do you want"? Okay, so maybe God didn't say duh, but I'm pretty sure the answer was clear.
So here we are, preparing for him to leave. We have never been apart longer than 2 weeks-and that didn't work out to well for us being he came home with a TATTOO, not that I have issues with that, all has been forgiven. In fact I have my appointment set for my Budweiser tattoo Friday morning. (Not really, but sounded good.)
I am happy for God's amazing provision. I am excited about the bigger picture. But then it is in my nature to always look at the bigger picture-some accuse me of not living for today, but for me, I can't live for today without it. Especially in this case. Not looking ahead at exciting possibilities would only cause me to look at God and say, why would you take him so far away? Why not give him a job here at home-I don't get you.
But then I am sad because I am going to miss being with him at the end of everyday. It's my comfortable routine and this will not be the case for quite sometime. I don't mean to whine, I know many of you have done this and are doing it know, but it is all new for me.
My son is already stepping up. Art is going over everything and making sure we will be equipped to deal with the uncertainty of winter in Oregon.
To make myself feel better, I have made a list of things I will do to keep busy in the evenings:
1. Catch up on my list of books to read.
2. Dust off the treadmill, put the junk away, stand on it and consider turning it on.
3. Unpack the last of the boxes from our move.
4. Catch up on my list of books to read.
5. Write another Bible study.
6. Stand on the clean treadmill, turn it on, then turn it off.
7. Go out on a date or two with my boyfri-I mean son. (Don't be startin' rumors.)
8. Thank God for my incredible husband for his willingness to provide for his family.
9. Stand on the clean treadmill, turn it on, keep it on and get in great shape for my gorgeous hunk of a construction worker husband.
10. Rejoice in the Lord for His goodness.
Okay, I am done rambling. Thanks for listening and bear with me these next few months as my stories go from happy to sad to joyful.
Teresa Ortiz
I'm a New Christian--Why is Everything a Mess?
So you have surrendered your life to Christ-congratulations! I rejoice with you, Jesus, and the angels.
When I first gave my life to Lord, I was excited and nervous. Many times, I felt out of place. I didn't know anyone at church, but I didn't want to continue to live the same life that God had rescued me from.
Nobody told me being a Christian was going to be tough--I thought it was just a matter of professing a faith in God.
The truth is, becoming a Christian is not about joining a club, or adding a religion to your life. It is about exchanging your life for the life of Christ. It is about recognizing your need for the Savior and repenting of your sin. Granted, in the beginning, most of us are not aware of the depth of our sin. Sure, we acknowledge that we "make mistakes" every now and then, but to classify ourselves as a sinner might be a stretch.
Still, we choose to accept Jesus into our hearts because we hear about God's unconditional love and grace--we hear about how much peace and joy we will have as a result. Every word of this is true, but it's not the whole story.
If you are a new Christian, you might be asking, "Where is this peace I was promised? Why didn't all my troubles go away--everything is a mess." The whole Christianity thing might even disillusion you--even has you thinking about moving on, or going back to what you had before.
If this is you today, keep reading. I pray from the depth of my soul that this information will help shed some light on the subject. Believe me; I know where you are coming from as I experienced it first hand. For many, accepting Christ as their Savior is only a matter of time. They are raised in the church; they have many Christian friends, or they believe in God and practice a faith, which soon reveals the need for total surrender and repentance.
This was not the case for me--God called me at a time when I was doing my own thing, not giving one thought to Him or His people. I just didn't care one way or the other.
Nevertheless, God had other plans and He began to complete the work He started in my life when I was 16 years-old, this being the age I quickly said a prayer to invite Jesus into my life, just to shut someone up. I didn't mean it and had neither intention or desire of changing my ways. Having to and wanting to are the key differences between joining a religion and entering into a relationship with God.
With this being said, let's look at the main theological--or spiritual thing that takes place the moment we ask Jesus to come into our life.
Spiritual birth becoming a child of God
"And you he made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who works in the sons of disobedience." Eph 2:2
"But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him, who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy." 1Pet 2:9-10.
Then we have the words from Jesus that we need to be born again. Meaning, everyone is born physically, but only those who respond to the call of God are born spiritually and given the right to be called a child of God. (John 1:12; 3:1-6)
Understanding darkness is the key to understanding the battle that begins to take place in our hearts. When we become a Christian, we are given a new nature. The Bible often refers to this as the new man and is contrasted with the old man. The books of Romans, Ephesians and Colossians have a lot to say about how these two natures are in extreme conflict with one another.
Dying to the old nature and living in the new nature is what God desires of us. Changing our way of thinking and living--being made pure--is called the sanctification process.
Unfortunately, the older we are when we become a Christian, the harder it is to change our ways. This is one of the many reasons why God gave us his Holy Spirit. The Spirits' job is to convict us, comfort us, and give us the wisdom to move forward.
Upon receiving Christ, you may have felt sudden conviction; as if a light went on in your head, you might have been flooded with feelings of guilt and shame over things you did that you never gave a second thought to before. In addition, this probably didn't leave you with warm fuzzy feelings of peace. More than likely, you cried--I know I did--for what seemed like days.
The good news is this doesn't last forever, God is faithful and will not make you wallow in your shame. Soon you will feel light as you continue to confess and apologize for your sinful behavior and make a commitment to turn away from it. This is called repentance. Repentance simply means to turn away from one thing and run to something different. It's a bit more than this, but this is a good starting point.
Getting back to darkness--the devil, who is Satan, is the prince of darkness and ruler of this world. As Ephesians tells us, before Christ we were governed by the world's standard. The darkness will not let go of God's child easily, in fact, I can guarantee he will do everything in his power to discourage you. He will fill your head with lies, he will use your old friends to ridicule you and call you names. This too, will fade after awhile when he realizes you will not fall for it--in the meantime, be ready it will come. Again, God is his goodness makes provision for this.
"Finally my brethren, be strong in the Lord and the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." Eph 6:10-12
The key here is "in the power of His might. This too, is a foreign concept because in our old nature, we did what we felt was right, we relied on our own strength, and we certainly did not look to His word for truth. The challenge comes in putting his ways above our own, it is relying on his strength and wisdom to make our decisions and it is trusting that he knows what is best. The bigger challenge is accepting his word for what it is and not making excuses to continue in sinful behavior. Jesus said if you love me, you will keep my commandments. Granted, this will take time--remember the sanctification process. As you grow in understanding, you grow in love, which leads to a desire to be obedient. And really, its a better way to live and has fewer consequences anyway.
It is impossible for me to share everything in one article, but I do hope this explains some of what you might be feeling--and whatever you do, don't run from the greatest thing you have ever done. It is eternally worth it.
If you are not sure where to start reading in the great big book called the Bible, I would suggest starting with the book of Ephesians. It is a great summary of who is responsible for salvation, it explains redemption, it covers the old and new man, it gives us the tools to respond to our faith, and it does it all in six chapters! Read it several times before moving on--at least five if not 10. You don't have to be overwhelmed by the size of the Bible, take it one little book at a time.
From Ephesians, move on to 1 John, Galatians, and then the Gospel of John, but this is just a suggestion. Others read the Gospel of John first and move forward from there. For me, it was easier to start with the shorter books of the Bible. "Evidence for Faith 101" by Bruce Bickel and Stan Jantz is a great tool to assist you as you get started.
God bless you as you continue to grow in faith!
(C)Teresa Ortiz 2008 All rights reserved
When I first gave my life to Lord, I was excited and nervous. Many times, I felt out of place. I didn't know anyone at church, but I didn't want to continue to live the same life that God had rescued me from.
Nobody told me being a Christian was going to be tough--I thought it was just a matter of professing a faith in God.
The truth is, becoming a Christian is not about joining a club, or adding a religion to your life. It is about exchanging your life for the life of Christ. It is about recognizing your need for the Savior and repenting of your sin. Granted, in the beginning, most of us are not aware of the depth of our sin. Sure, we acknowledge that we "make mistakes" every now and then, but to classify ourselves as a sinner might be a stretch.
Still, we choose to accept Jesus into our hearts because we hear about God's unconditional love and grace--we hear about how much peace and joy we will have as a result. Every word of this is true, but it's not the whole story.
If you are a new Christian, you might be asking, "Where is this peace I was promised? Why didn't all my troubles go away--everything is a mess." The whole Christianity thing might even disillusion you--even has you thinking about moving on, or going back to what you had before.
If this is you today, keep reading. I pray from the depth of my soul that this information will help shed some light on the subject. Believe me; I know where you are coming from as I experienced it first hand. For many, accepting Christ as their Savior is only a matter of time. They are raised in the church; they have many Christian friends, or they believe in God and practice a faith, which soon reveals the need for total surrender and repentance.
This was not the case for me--God called me at a time when I was doing my own thing, not giving one thought to Him or His people. I just didn't care one way or the other.
Nevertheless, God had other plans and He began to complete the work He started in my life when I was 16 years-old, this being the age I quickly said a prayer to invite Jesus into my life, just to shut someone up. I didn't mean it and had neither intention or desire of changing my ways. Having to and wanting to are the key differences between joining a religion and entering into a relationship with God.
With this being said, let's look at the main theological--or spiritual thing that takes place the moment we ask Jesus to come into our life.
Spiritual birth becoming a child of God
"And you he made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who works in the sons of disobedience." Eph 2:2
"But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him, who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy." 1Pet 2:9-10.
Then we have the words from Jesus that we need to be born again. Meaning, everyone is born physically, but only those who respond to the call of God are born spiritually and given the right to be called a child of God. (John 1:12; 3:1-6)
Understanding darkness is the key to understanding the battle that begins to take place in our hearts. When we become a Christian, we are given a new nature. The Bible often refers to this as the new man and is contrasted with the old man. The books of Romans, Ephesians and Colossians have a lot to say about how these two natures are in extreme conflict with one another.
Dying to the old nature and living in the new nature is what God desires of us. Changing our way of thinking and living--being made pure--is called the sanctification process.
Unfortunately, the older we are when we become a Christian, the harder it is to change our ways. This is one of the many reasons why God gave us his Holy Spirit. The Spirits' job is to convict us, comfort us, and give us the wisdom to move forward.
Upon receiving Christ, you may have felt sudden conviction; as if a light went on in your head, you might have been flooded with feelings of guilt and shame over things you did that you never gave a second thought to before. In addition, this probably didn't leave you with warm fuzzy feelings of peace. More than likely, you cried--I know I did--for what seemed like days.
The good news is this doesn't last forever, God is faithful and will not make you wallow in your shame. Soon you will feel light as you continue to confess and apologize for your sinful behavior and make a commitment to turn away from it. This is called repentance. Repentance simply means to turn away from one thing and run to something different. It's a bit more than this, but this is a good starting point.
Getting back to darkness--the devil, who is Satan, is the prince of darkness and ruler of this world. As Ephesians tells us, before Christ we were governed by the world's standard. The darkness will not let go of God's child easily, in fact, I can guarantee he will do everything in his power to discourage you. He will fill your head with lies, he will use your old friends to ridicule you and call you names. This too, will fade after awhile when he realizes you will not fall for it--in the meantime, be ready it will come. Again, God is his goodness makes provision for this.
"Finally my brethren, be strong in the Lord and the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." Eph 6:10-12
The key here is "in the power of His might. This too, is a foreign concept because in our old nature, we did what we felt was right, we relied on our own strength, and we certainly did not look to His word for truth. The challenge comes in putting his ways above our own, it is relying on his strength and wisdom to make our decisions and it is trusting that he knows what is best. The bigger challenge is accepting his word for what it is and not making excuses to continue in sinful behavior. Jesus said if you love me, you will keep my commandments. Granted, this will take time--remember the sanctification process. As you grow in understanding, you grow in love, which leads to a desire to be obedient. And really, its a better way to live and has fewer consequences anyway.
It is impossible for me to share everything in one article, but I do hope this explains some of what you might be feeling--and whatever you do, don't run from the greatest thing you have ever done. It is eternally worth it.
If you are not sure where to start reading in the great big book called the Bible, I would suggest starting with the book of Ephesians. It is a great summary of who is responsible for salvation, it explains redemption, it covers the old and new man, it gives us the tools to respond to our faith, and it does it all in six chapters! Read it several times before moving on--at least five if not 10. You don't have to be overwhelmed by the size of the Bible, take it one little book at a time.
From Ephesians, move on to 1 John, Galatians, and then the Gospel of John, but this is just a suggestion. Others read the Gospel of John first and move forward from there. For me, it was easier to start with the shorter books of the Bible. "Evidence for Faith 101" by Bruce Bickel and Stan Jantz is a great tool to assist you as you get started.
God bless you as you continue to grow in faith!
(C)Teresa Ortiz 2008 All rights reserved
Aug 10, 2008
What will you be Doing While the Nation Rages Against Nation?
I'm not much of a debater, never have been and probably never will be. Nevertheless, sometimes things get under my skin and I cannot remain silent.
I was listening to one of my favorite Musicians the other day, and since then, a specific song has been playing repeatedly in my mind. The more I hear it the more I think; have we fallen so far as away from a fundamental and universal belief in love? I'm going to share these lyrics with you; some of you may know the song, it's an oldie. I don't know maybe it's just me, but let me know what you think, as a follower of Christ, am I being to sensitive? On the other hand, am I justified in what I will share?
While the Nations Rage
Why do the nations rage; why do they plot and scheme
The bullets can't stop the prayers we pray
In the name of the Prince of Peace.
We walk in faith and remember long ago
how they killed Him and then how on the third day He rose.
Things may look bad; things may look grim
but all these things must pass except the things that are of Him.
Where are the nails that pierced His Hands?
Well the nails have turned to rust
But behold the Man; He has risen and He
reigns in the hearts of the children rising up in His name.
Where are the thorns that drew His blood; the thorns
have turned to dust but not so the love He has given and remains
in the hearts of the children who will love-while the nations rage.
The Lord in heaven laughs. He knows what is to come
While the chiefs of state plan their big attacks against
His Anointed One.
The church of God she will not bend her knees to the gods
of this world though they promise her peace. She stands her
ground stands firm on the Rock.
Watch their walls tumble down when she lives out His love
Chorus
Music and Lyrics by Rich Mullins/Psalm2/Isaiah 40:12-17/Isaiah 8:11-17
~~~~~~~
So what happened, "church"? Have we not bent our knees to the gods of this world? We have compromised by reasoning away God's holiness for the sake of the peace this world promises. Where has this gotten us as a people-Red, Yellow, Black or White?
We have not seen the walls in the hearts of our chiefs' tumble down because we are not living out His love. We give them more criticism than prayer. I have read more articles in the newspaper and on-line which ridicule instead of lift up and encourage our leaders. We condemn the Pastors who are willing to meet with our leaders and offer them Godly council despite personal disagreements.
We want God to bless America-just stay out of our schools, please. I could go on, but I don't want this to be a rant, but rather a call to the church as a whole. And not only the church. After all, we are not the only hypocrites to walk the face of this planet. There are other non-religious people who claim love, peace, acceptance and tolerance who bash our leaders and the very people that give their lives so that we have these freedoms in the first place. (Oops, I ranted, didn't I?)
Let's stand in the gap together; let's build up, encourage and pray for the leaders of all nations so that their walls will tumble to the ground. I for one will not settle for false peace but I desire true and lasting peace meant for all humanity from the Prince of Peace.
Heavenly Father,
I humbly ask your forgiveness as I repent of being complacent and inattentive at times. Just as our founding fathers thought it wise to seek your wisdom, I do the same now, asking for your grace and love to fill the hearts of all leaders for all nations. Father, I pray in the name of Jesus that you would work in our hearts as individuals so that our first thoughts toward our leaders would be that of prayer for wisdom and not words that speak negativity, for that accomplishes nothing. I am making a commitment to keep my lips from speaking anything but good toward those who make the decisions that will affect our nation. And I pray, that those who claim to know you will once again, stand their ground, stand firm on the Rock and have the courage to straighten their knees before the gods of this world. All who agree, say Amen.
© Teresa Ortiz
I was listening to one of my favorite Musicians the other day, and since then, a specific song has been playing repeatedly in my mind. The more I hear it the more I think; have we fallen so far as away from a fundamental and universal belief in love? I'm going to share these lyrics with you; some of you may know the song, it's an oldie. I don't know maybe it's just me, but let me know what you think, as a follower of Christ, am I being to sensitive? On the other hand, am I justified in what I will share?
While the Nations Rage
Why do the nations rage; why do they plot and scheme
The bullets can't stop the prayers we pray
In the name of the Prince of Peace.
We walk in faith and remember long ago
how they killed Him and then how on the third day He rose.
Things may look bad; things may look grim
but all these things must pass except the things that are of Him.
Where are the nails that pierced His Hands?
Well the nails have turned to rust
But behold the Man; He has risen and He
reigns in the hearts of the children rising up in His name.
Where are the thorns that drew His blood; the thorns
have turned to dust but not so the love He has given and remains
in the hearts of the children who will love-while the nations rage.
The Lord in heaven laughs. He knows what is to come
While the chiefs of state plan their big attacks against
His Anointed One.
The church of God she will not bend her knees to the gods
of this world though they promise her peace. She stands her
ground stands firm on the Rock.
Watch their walls tumble down when she lives out His love
Chorus
Music and Lyrics by Rich Mullins/Psalm2/Isaiah 40:12-17/Isaiah 8:11-17
~~~~~~~
So what happened, "church"? Have we not bent our knees to the gods of this world? We have compromised by reasoning away God's holiness for the sake of the peace this world promises. Where has this gotten us as a people-Red, Yellow, Black or White?
We have not seen the walls in the hearts of our chiefs' tumble down because we are not living out His love. We give them more criticism than prayer. I have read more articles in the newspaper and on-line which ridicule instead of lift up and encourage our leaders. We condemn the Pastors who are willing to meet with our leaders and offer them Godly council despite personal disagreements.
We want God to bless America-just stay out of our schools, please. I could go on, but I don't want this to be a rant, but rather a call to the church as a whole. And not only the church. After all, we are not the only hypocrites to walk the face of this planet. There are other non-religious people who claim love, peace, acceptance and tolerance who bash our leaders and the very people that give their lives so that we have these freedoms in the first place. (Oops, I ranted, didn't I?)
Let's stand in the gap together; let's build up, encourage and pray for the leaders of all nations so that their walls will tumble to the ground. I for one will not settle for false peace but I desire true and lasting peace meant for all humanity from the Prince of Peace.
Heavenly Father,
I humbly ask your forgiveness as I repent of being complacent and inattentive at times. Just as our founding fathers thought it wise to seek your wisdom, I do the same now, asking for your grace and love to fill the hearts of all leaders for all nations. Father, I pray in the name of Jesus that you would work in our hearts as individuals so that our first thoughts toward our leaders would be that of prayer for wisdom and not words that speak negativity, for that accomplishes nothing. I am making a commitment to keep my lips from speaking anything but good toward those who make the decisions that will affect our nation. And I pray, that those who claim to know you will once again, stand their ground, stand firm on the Rock and have the courage to straighten their knees before the gods of this world. All who agree, say Amen.
© Teresa Ortiz
Is God Your First Choice or Last Resort?
Hebrews 4: 15 -16 "For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need"
Has it been one of those days? You know the kind, when everything that could possibly go wrong has? For me it was the washer and dryer going out the night before my daughter and I were off to California to visit friends and family.
It was also the week before Christmas and I needed to make sure everything was in order before I left my husband to man the house with our son. It is times like these that make me say "Calgon, take me away!"
However, as calm as Calgon might make me on the outside, It will do nothing to calm the inside. After running around frantically trying to ring out the clothes in the washer, trying to pack and wondering how in the world I was going to pay for a new washer and dryer after spending money on airline tickets and Christmas gifts and …. It hits me:
"Maybe I should pray about this." What a novel idea! I can hear Him now, "Teresa, my child. I have a solution if you would just take a minute to chat with Me".
After taking a minute to breathe and remember that "I" don't have it all figured out, I began to pray. I relaxed. I breathed, I even whined a little (well okay, a lot). I simply said, what should I do?
The next morning I went to work - The Lord impressed upon me to go "check out" some washers and dyers on my lunch break. I did. When I arrived back at work, I was surprised to find an envelope on my desk.
It was a Christmas bonus! I went back to the store and purchased the washer and dryer. It was delivered and installed just in time for my daughter and I to leave for the airport.
By the way, did I mention my daughter had a basketball game that night as well?
Take time to seek the Lord BEFORE that "day" comes.
Father, forgive me for not going to you first. Change my heart and draw me closer to You so that You are my first choice for comfort instead of the last resort. Thank you for your patience with me. Make me more like you today. Organize my time and give me discernment to recognize Your voice. In Jesus name, Amen
(C) Teresa Ortiz
Has it been one of those days? You know the kind, when everything that could possibly go wrong has? For me it was the washer and dryer going out the night before my daughter and I were off to California to visit friends and family.
It was also the week before Christmas and I needed to make sure everything was in order before I left my husband to man the house with our son. It is times like these that make me say "Calgon, take me away!"
However, as calm as Calgon might make me on the outside, It will do nothing to calm the inside. After running around frantically trying to ring out the clothes in the washer, trying to pack and wondering how in the world I was going to pay for a new washer and dryer after spending money on airline tickets and Christmas gifts and …. It hits me:
"Maybe I should pray about this." What a novel idea! I can hear Him now, "Teresa, my child. I have a solution if you would just take a minute to chat with Me".
After taking a minute to breathe and remember that "I" don't have it all figured out, I began to pray. I relaxed. I breathed, I even whined a little (well okay, a lot). I simply said, what should I do?
The next morning I went to work - The Lord impressed upon me to go "check out" some washers and dyers on my lunch break. I did. When I arrived back at work, I was surprised to find an envelope on my desk.
It was a Christmas bonus! I went back to the store and purchased the washer and dryer. It was delivered and installed just in time for my daughter and I to leave for the airport.
By the way, did I mention my daughter had a basketball game that night as well?
Take time to seek the Lord BEFORE that "day" comes.
Father, forgive me for not going to you first. Change my heart and draw me closer to You so that You are my first choice for comfort instead of the last resort. Thank you for your patience with me. Make me more like you today. Organize my time and give me discernment to recognize Your voice. In Jesus name, Amen
(C) Teresa Ortiz
Good Parent, Bad Parent, Good God, Bad God
How would you rate yourself as a parent? Would you say you are a good one? What would be your qualifying reasons? What if one were to ask your teenaged child-would they agree with your assessment, or would they say you were mean, judgmental and narrow minded?
Getting back to the first question; if you rated yourself as good, what are the reasons? Following is a list of reasons given over the years:
1. I tell my children how much I love them.
2. I set boundaries for them and tell them the consequences that will follow if they cross the line.
3. I warn them not to touch a hot stove or not to play with fire because they will get burned.
4. I warn them to stay away from strangers and tell them that there are evil people in the world who are looking to harm them while pretending that they are friendly.
As a parent, you know that your teen's perspective on the short list above is a bit different from yours. Following is a list of responses I have heard over the years.
1. I love you too.
2. You're so strict, I never get to have any fun. I thought you said you loved me.
3. You're just trying to scare me into doing what you want me to do. It won't really burn.
4. You're just afraid that I might meet someone who is nice. Bobby's parents are great, they let him go anywhere he wants.
Obviously, this list is just the tip of the iceberg. Still, it makes a good point. So, once again I would ask; are you a good parent or a bad parent? I suppose it depends on whom you ask. As parents, we have experienced hardship and pain; we know what straying from the counsel of our parents did to us. Looking back to our teen years, we might remember a time or two when we thought our parents were mean, to strict and narrow minded. However, as we got older, we understood that it was love that compelled them. It was their knowledge that caused them to warn us of the consequences of straying.
Let's consider God in this same light. Is God a good God or a Bad God? Unfortunately, many "experienced" adults act like teenagers when asked this question. He is accused of being a narrow minded God who just lays out rules and regulations to be followed or else they will suffer the consequences. Why is it that many who take pride in the fact that they raised their children with guidelines and values that taught them to be good people are quick to say that they do not want to follow a God who does the same?
Perspective. However, is perspective the measure? God is love and He is the Creator of all things. Therefore, how much more experienced is He? It would seem that He is the one who is qualified to warn and set boundaries for His children.
Wouldn't you agree that putting a little bit of fear in your children teaches them to respect and trust you? Why then is God accused of being a bad God for doing them same?
It would seem logical that if one considers God bad and narrow minded for setting boundaries, then one must consider themselves a bad parent for doing the same.
Would you pick and chose when you are going to be your parent's child? No, that is silly. You are either their child or not. Either you choose to accept them and honor them as your parent, or you divorce yourself from them, be your own parent and deal with the consequences.
The same applies to God. We can't call him Father when it is convenient and then say He is not our Father when he lays down the rules. You are either His child or not. Either you choose to honor Him as your God and Father or you divorce yourself and be your own God. It's simple logic. God is God 100% of the time or He is not.
"And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: My son, do not despise the chastening of the LORD, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; For whom the LORD loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives." Hebrews 12:5-6
As a good parent forgives when a child disobeys and comes to his or her senses, God does the same. Be our own god or be a child; the choice is ours.
One last time; are you a good parent or bad parent? Is God a good God or bad God?
© Teresa Ortiz
Getting back to the first question; if you rated yourself as good, what are the reasons? Following is a list of reasons given over the years:
1. I tell my children how much I love them.
2. I set boundaries for them and tell them the consequences that will follow if they cross the line.
3. I warn them not to touch a hot stove or not to play with fire because they will get burned.
4. I warn them to stay away from strangers and tell them that there are evil people in the world who are looking to harm them while pretending that they are friendly.
As a parent, you know that your teen's perspective on the short list above is a bit different from yours. Following is a list of responses I have heard over the years.
1. I love you too.
2. You're so strict, I never get to have any fun. I thought you said you loved me.
3. You're just trying to scare me into doing what you want me to do. It won't really burn.
4. You're just afraid that I might meet someone who is nice. Bobby's parents are great, they let him go anywhere he wants.
Obviously, this list is just the tip of the iceberg. Still, it makes a good point. So, once again I would ask; are you a good parent or a bad parent? I suppose it depends on whom you ask. As parents, we have experienced hardship and pain; we know what straying from the counsel of our parents did to us. Looking back to our teen years, we might remember a time or two when we thought our parents were mean, to strict and narrow minded. However, as we got older, we understood that it was love that compelled them. It was their knowledge that caused them to warn us of the consequences of straying.
Let's consider God in this same light. Is God a good God or a Bad God? Unfortunately, many "experienced" adults act like teenagers when asked this question. He is accused of being a narrow minded God who just lays out rules and regulations to be followed or else they will suffer the consequences. Why is it that many who take pride in the fact that they raised their children with guidelines and values that taught them to be good people are quick to say that they do not want to follow a God who does the same?
Perspective. However, is perspective the measure? God is love and He is the Creator of all things. Therefore, how much more experienced is He? It would seem that He is the one who is qualified to warn and set boundaries for His children.
Wouldn't you agree that putting a little bit of fear in your children teaches them to respect and trust you? Why then is God accused of being a bad God for doing them same?
It would seem logical that if one considers God bad and narrow minded for setting boundaries, then one must consider themselves a bad parent for doing the same.
Would you pick and chose when you are going to be your parent's child? No, that is silly. You are either their child or not. Either you choose to accept them and honor them as your parent, or you divorce yourself from them, be your own parent and deal with the consequences.
The same applies to God. We can't call him Father when it is convenient and then say He is not our Father when he lays down the rules. You are either His child or not. Either you choose to honor Him as your God and Father or you divorce yourself and be your own God. It's simple logic. God is God 100% of the time or He is not.
"And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: My son, do not despise the chastening of the LORD, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; For whom the LORD loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives." Hebrews 12:5-6
As a good parent forgives when a child disobeys and comes to his or her senses, God does the same. Be our own god or be a child; the choice is ours.
One last time; are you a good parent or bad parent? Is God a good God or bad God?
© Teresa Ortiz
Aug 9, 2008
Finding Church in Your Pantry
"Best if used by 02-08-04"-this being the date stamped on the can of corn I pulled out of the back of the pantry--and the oldest expiration date I came across while packing.
There were many others, in fact; I threw away more than I packed! My greatest find was a bag of Marshmallows that were so hard; they would make pellets feel like cotton balls if I were to shoot you with one.
As I stood tippy-toed on the ladder, I stared into the pantry and thought, why have I not cleaned this out before. Was I lazy? Did I feel the need to make my pantry look full? Maybe I thought if I just shoved all the cans to the back, I wouldn't have to deal with them and then at some point, they would recognize they have out-lasted their usefulness and throw themselves away.
Who knew that cleaning out my pantry could be so spiritually profound? And to think, I thought I was missing church because I had to finish packing. Shows you what I know.
"..Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God" Hebrews 12:1b-2
Not knowing why this particular passage of Scripture popped into my mind, I held on to the scrunched up bag of chips, or crumbs as they were, and thought about the words, "lay aside every weight".
~~~~~
What does expired canned food have to do with weight? Then it hits me; it's human nature to hang on to things that we know are weighing us down. Things that are harmful for us, yet we are easily trapped by the familiar--after all, we know what to expect from the familiar. Once again, God gives me a practical picture of what sin does to us.
In our frailty, we deceive ourselves by adding something new to our lives. We find a new system of belief, or we find a new set of friends, or... Unfortunately, we do this without cleansing ourselves of the old things first. Eventually, we become tired and weary--we feel so heavy, we get depressed. Moreover, we are confused because we don't understand why we feel this way.
Yet this passage of Scripture gives us a practical solution. Lay the stuff aside. Other versions say throw it away. Get rid of the things that have "expired" and are not healthy for us. Replace it with something good; like Jesus, for starters. He is the one who can help us and the one who can truly free us from feeling sick, tired, and depressed.
What is hindering you today? Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Don't just add something new to your life, get rid of the things that are weighing you down. It doesn't do any of us any good to look good on the surface while we have things rotting away in the deepest parts of our hearts.
The great news about looking to Jesus is that He will help us and give us the courage we need to move forward. He does not expect us to clean up first. He desires us to call upon Him just the way we are. So go for it, seek the help you need to save your marriage, or quit drinking, or quit playing the field--you fill in the blank. From experience, I have learned that there is victory in surrender.
Additional words come to mind from this same passage in Hebrews:
"For the joy that was set before Him"
Have you ever considered what or who the "joy" is? You are the joy--I am the joy. We are the joy that drove Him to the cross. We are why He endured the shame. Why would He do this? So that we would not have to live in bondage to our sin and shame. There is no greater love.
~~~~~
As I let go of the scrunched up bag of crumbs, I smiled with renewed excitement of the good things to come. I finished packing the box that was coming with us to the new house and I was content with how light it was.
The box of expired food, well, this box was heavy. I had to kick it all the way to the section that my husband had labeled trash--I felt so much better. It was symbolic of throwing away all the muck that I had allowed to creep into my heart and make its home there. I am looking unto Jesus anew with my eyes and heart wide-open. Won't you do the same?
Heavenly Father,
I can't even fathom the depth of love you have for me that you would send your only Son to bear my guilt and shame. I will never understand the sacrifice, but my heart is grateful that you accepted me just as I was so long ago. Yet in your love, you showed me a better way to live and your continued patience with me humbles me like no other. Thank you for showing me true freedom. I pray for those who are struggling with the concept of grace. Lord woo them unto yourself as you did me and so many others, may they hear your sweet voice calling them and may you deafen their ears to the voice of the enemy who desires to keep them trapped. I love you and I am forever grateful and as long as I have breath I will praise your name and share your love with others. In the name of your most precious Son, Jesus. All who agree, say Amen.
So what is the moral of this story?
If you ever feel like you need a little "church", go clean out your pantry.
(C) Teresa Ortiz
There were many others, in fact; I threw away more than I packed! My greatest find was a bag of Marshmallows that were so hard; they would make pellets feel like cotton balls if I were to shoot you with one.
As I stood tippy-toed on the ladder, I stared into the pantry and thought, why have I not cleaned this out before. Was I lazy? Did I feel the need to make my pantry look full? Maybe I thought if I just shoved all the cans to the back, I wouldn't have to deal with them and then at some point, they would recognize they have out-lasted their usefulness and throw themselves away.
Who knew that cleaning out my pantry could be so spiritually profound? And to think, I thought I was missing church because I had to finish packing. Shows you what I know.
"..Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God" Hebrews 12:1b-2
Not knowing why this particular passage of Scripture popped into my mind, I held on to the scrunched up bag of chips, or crumbs as they were, and thought about the words, "lay aside every weight".
~~~~~
What does expired canned food have to do with weight? Then it hits me; it's human nature to hang on to things that we know are weighing us down. Things that are harmful for us, yet we are easily trapped by the familiar--after all, we know what to expect from the familiar. Once again, God gives me a practical picture of what sin does to us.
In our frailty, we deceive ourselves by adding something new to our lives. We find a new system of belief, or we find a new set of friends, or... Unfortunately, we do this without cleansing ourselves of the old things first. Eventually, we become tired and weary--we feel so heavy, we get depressed. Moreover, we are confused because we don't understand why we feel this way.
Yet this passage of Scripture gives us a practical solution. Lay the stuff aside. Other versions say throw it away. Get rid of the things that have "expired" and are not healthy for us. Replace it with something good; like Jesus, for starters. He is the one who can help us and the one who can truly free us from feeling sick, tired, and depressed.
What is hindering you today? Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Don't just add something new to your life, get rid of the things that are weighing you down. It doesn't do any of us any good to look good on the surface while we have things rotting away in the deepest parts of our hearts.
The great news about looking to Jesus is that He will help us and give us the courage we need to move forward. He does not expect us to clean up first. He desires us to call upon Him just the way we are. So go for it, seek the help you need to save your marriage, or quit drinking, or quit playing the field--you fill in the blank. From experience, I have learned that there is victory in surrender.
Additional words come to mind from this same passage in Hebrews:
"For the joy that was set before Him"
Have you ever considered what or who the "joy" is? You are the joy--I am the joy. We are the joy that drove Him to the cross. We are why He endured the shame. Why would He do this? So that we would not have to live in bondage to our sin and shame. There is no greater love.
~~~~~
As I let go of the scrunched up bag of crumbs, I smiled with renewed excitement of the good things to come. I finished packing the box that was coming with us to the new house and I was content with how light it was.
The box of expired food, well, this box was heavy. I had to kick it all the way to the section that my husband had labeled trash--I felt so much better. It was symbolic of throwing away all the muck that I had allowed to creep into my heart and make its home there. I am looking unto Jesus anew with my eyes and heart wide-open. Won't you do the same?
Heavenly Father,
I can't even fathom the depth of love you have for me that you would send your only Son to bear my guilt and shame. I will never understand the sacrifice, but my heart is grateful that you accepted me just as I was so long ago. Yet in your love, you showed me a better way to live and your continued patience with me humbles me like no other. Thank you for showing me true freedom. I pray for those who are struggling with the concept of grace. Lord woo them unto yourself as you did me and so many others, may they hear your sweet voice calling them and may you deafen their ears to the voice of the enemy who desires to keep them trapped. I love you and I am forever grateful and as long as I have breath I will praise your name and share your love with others. In the name of your most precious Son, Jesus. All who agree, say Amen.
So what is the moral of this story?
If you ever feel like you need a little "church", go clean out your pantry.
(C) Teresa Ortiz
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