tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84500895400447839852024-03-05T03:06:58.839-08:00On All OccasionsSharing my journey to better know and follow Jesus. Jeanie Brumleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15011491077125444593noreply@blogger.comBlogger10125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450089540044783985.post-45374987723670261772014-01-28T20:07:00.002-08:002014-01-30T10:35:28.267-08:00The War is Over, Love Has Come<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuYEMJgTyIMl0ooXyorMgBRSp8f_mMiDgW_d_AvJXsJyHFMfXIlMp9hmi0OEMnEwOBMpPLIqqJD12kAuhhXAiF4cKILD4IO9KjUMfkEq0A2y5bO5lkruncqUYYJ3orB5YXJKzb1cfyvUM/s1600/Jeanie+1968.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuYEMJgTyIMl0ooXyorMgBRSp8f_mMiDgW_d_AvJXsJyHFMfXIlMp9hmi0OEMnEwOBMpPLIqqJD12kAuhhXAiF4cKILD4IO9KjUMfkEq0A2y5bO5lkruncqUYYJ3orB5YXJKzb1cfyvUM/s1600/Jeanie+1968.jpg" height="320" width="216" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jeanie - age 8</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>The assignment read</b> --- “Glue a picture that represents a
meaningful part of your story. Jot down why this picture means something to you.”
Freeway: A not-so-perfect guide to freedom, by Mike Foster & Garry Poole. Without much thought, I scanned and printed a photo from childhood that
I have always liked. As I taped the photo into the book, I noticed her
freckles, those big brown innocent eyes and cute smile, and suddenly I am
captivated, by this little 8-year-old girl…She has something that I have lost
over the years.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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What happened? <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>The setting was 1968, El Paso, TX</b> – a special day, just dad
and me at the military base recreational park. She was a tomboy then – enjoyed chasing
jack rabbits, catching horned toads, and exploring the tumbleweed terrain. She had
the patience to play a game of Monopoly until the very end, and she wanted to
be an archaeologist, and dig up bones in the desert.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Dad, not pictured in the photo, was days away from heading
off to the war in Vietnam.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Awareness crept in</b> as I looked a little closer into her eyes…she
was free! She hadn't yet learned the ways of war, the rules of engagement, and tactics
of camouflage. She had yet to learn to fear. And I realized I wanted for myself
now, what she once had – freedom.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Fast forward from this picture to 40 plus years later, I’m in my living room
among a circle of friends, together exploring our areas of brokenness. Though things to fear
have long since passed away, the modi operandi remain. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Awareness is the first step.</b> “A simple invitation to slow
down, let blurry eyes see, and let a loving God quietly speak to us.” Freeway.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Later sitting at Woods Coffee, writing a vocal variety speech
slash blog…It needs emotion, I think, as my insides quiver – always a good
sign that I’m approaching the threshold of a previously unexpressed truth…<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Preparing and taking an inventory,</b> I realize I am –<o:p></o:p></div>
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…still wearing combat gear, trying to capture the hill
of my self-worth.<o:p></o:p></div>
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…still carrying weapons of defense against an unknown enemy,
as if a Sovereign God did not exist. <o:p></o:p></div>
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…still engaging in strategies and tactics that are so
ingrained they come without forethought.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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What would I say to the little girl lost inside? "The war is over little one… It’s safe to come out.
Be free. It is safe to lay your weapons down. Live free!"<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+John+4%3A18&version=NIV">There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment.</a> <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />
This song holds special meaning for the journey.<br />
<br /></div>
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<b>White Flag, by Chris Tomlin</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The battle rages on<o:p></o:p></div>
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As storm and tempest roar<o:p></o:p></div>
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We cannot win this fight<o:p></o:p></div>
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Inside our rebel hearts<o:p></o:p></div>
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We’re laying down our weapons now<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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We raise our white flags. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We surrender all to you<o:p></o:p></div>
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All to you<o:p></o:p></div>
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All to you<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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We raise our white flag<o:p></o:p></div>
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The war is over<o:p></o:p></div>
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Love has come<o:p></o:p></div>
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Your love has won<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Here on this holy ground<o:p></o:p></div>
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You made a way for peace<o:p></o:p></div>
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Laying your body down<o:p></o:p></div>
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You took our rightful place<o:p></o:p></div>
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This freedom song is marching on<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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We raise our white flags. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We surrender all to you<o:p></o:p></div>
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All to you<o:p></o:p></div>
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All to you<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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We raise our white flag<o:p></o:p></div>
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The war is over<o:p></o:p></div>
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Love has come<o:p></o:p></div>
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Your love has won”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />
<b>Is there room in your day for Jesus to quietly speak?</b></div>
<br />
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<b>What weapons do you need to lay down?</b><o:p></o:p></div>
Jeanie Brumleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15011491077125444593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450089540044783985.post-63623684865280443832013-10-10T19:04:00.001-07:002014-01-28T21:16:43.506-08:007 Ways to Help People Reach Their Potential<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He was a leader in the church, but didn’t have any friends. People avoided him by walking the other way or quickly excusing themselves. He wasn’t a good listener, and newcomers quickly learned it.<br /><br />The problem was his behavior was observed passively until, finally, another leader lost patience and spewed his frustration publicly.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidiQvKIHl6aazocyFZXR4gAtgDSPiiL7aYJoERvKvNFhWIWbv-psbHS2a200gaAA68su-GxRRktZMjGNF7BemeCVvKn9_XtYgWrHJGDGriB6Msna_Rscon3bUo6SVfMdyjrwlE9jr0ugc/s1600/ID-10091517.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidiQvKIHl6aazocyFZXR4gAtgDSPiiL7aYJoERvKvNFhWIWbv-psbHS2a200gaAA68su-GxRRktZMjGNF7BemeCVvKn9_XtYgWrHJGDGriB6Msna_Rscon3bUo6SVfMdyjrwlE9jr0ugc/s1600/ID-10091517.jpg" width="212" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net</span></td></tr>
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<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You’ve probably seen a similar story, maybe even playing the role of passive observer, the person who recognizes an area of relational weakness in another, but lacks a vision of a kingdom potential that remains unrealized. There is a greater role we must serve, and that is to think God’s vision for one another.<br /><br />As a passive observer, we may excuse ourselves from involvement by citing our desire to be kind, to guard other’s feelings, to avoid conflict, or steer clear of judgmental thinking. In spite of good intentions, these reasons lack God’s vision for others.<br /><br /><b>Is it kind to avoid others</b>, or to overlook relational sin for the sake of preserving a relationship? Would doing so demonstrate life-giving community? What I’m suggesting is not in opposition to love and acceptance of others, but it does hold the vision of God’s story in each of us higher than maintaining the approval of others. What if someone had a greater vision for this leader?<br /><br />Sadly, he resigned from leadership and left the church. But, before we can know God’s vision for another we must be aware of our motives. We play the role of fixer when we react in frustration (as in the example above) or when we pursue our own vision for others, one focused on error, fault, or sin. Fixing another person often looks and feels like using a hammer and a magnifying glass.<br /><br />Our motives are often: </span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">self-serving–rooted in our own issues </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">attempts to gain approval, or cooperation in matters that are important to us </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">aimed at changing annoying habits </span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wouldn’t we like others to fit our design–one of met expectations, shared values, similar likes and dislikes, and an agreement on how life works? We often see this in marriages when couples lose God’s vision for one another replacing it with self-centered expectations? How can we join with God’s vision for one another?<br /><br /><b>When we think God’s vision we grasp his handiwork and heart for others</b>, and our relationships join with God’s purposes. In the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Connecting-Healing-Ourselves-Our-Relationships/dp/0849945291/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1380490274&sr=1-1&keywords=connecting+by+larry+crabb">Connecting</a>, Christian psychologist Dr. Larry Crabb recommends 7 questions to help us identify God’s vision: </span><br />
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">How has God built this person?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What is he wanting to release through all the joys and heartaches of this person’s life?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What is right now being released?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What strengths does this individual have that, if surrendered to God could powerfully advance the kingdom?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What potential remains unrealized because of un-dealt-with weaknesses?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">How does this person uniquely bless me?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What does that tell me about the character strengths that God is specially weaving into the fabric of this individual’s soul?</span></li>
</ol>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Dr. Crabb’s approach is based on the Potter’s design, <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/quicksearch/?quicksearch=jars+of+clay&qs_version=NIV">“we have this treasure in jars of clay.”</a> God’s vision for others, recognizes their unique design, the strengths, gifts, and qualities that God has built within to accomplish his kingdom purpose. When we see God’s design in others we are able to join that vision, affirm unrealized strengths, and help explore areas of un-dealt with weakness.<br /><br /><b>It takes courage</b> and begins when we humbly open our lives to mutually vulnerable relationships for the sake of powerfully advancing the kingdom. Investing in relationships requires prayer, and selflessly loving others. Paul challenged us to <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20thess%205:11&version=NIV">“encourage one another and build each other up,”</a> and to <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=col%203:16&version=NIV">“teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit.”</a> Jesus is the <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/quicksearch/?quicksearch=author+of+our+faith&qs_version=KJV">“author”</a> and we serve as <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=heb%2010:24&version=NLT">“motivators.”</a> <br /><br />Is there someone you are avoiding? If so, ask God to help you see his vision. What is attractive about this kind of relationship? What is frightening?</span></div>
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-0IA9PuBKpZ0%2FUldUDVXLV2I%2FAAAAAAAAAFU%2FEb91-eQdxM4%2Fs1600%2FID-10091517.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidiQvKIHl6aazocyFZXR4gAtgDSPiiL7aYJoERvKvNFhWIWbv-psbHS2a200gaAA68su-GxRRktZMjGNF7BemeCVvKn9_XtYgWrHJGDGriB6Msna_Rscon3bUo6SVfMdyjrwlE9jr0ugc/s1600/ID-10091517.jpg" -->Jeanie Brumleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15011491077125444593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450089540044783985.post-6332066920088768282013-08-06T08:58:00.001-07:002013-08-06T08:58:30.024-07:00A Christian's Worst Fear<div class="MsoNormal">
Praying out loud, with others, is one of the major fears Christians encounter.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk3rIp_cj_tsT0VCd5sAmYwmxfxfa7-UOD4xWwkUEXv8ujUnKNd1i7QpJu9FZMkORSxX5JW-V7t5yZCD5cltU6bxzrbk4oghM4FGNNuyr9Lo2nRNzjBCebspkux8vsxvpnCNhxDQqgsUo/s1600/139578590.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk3rIp_cj_tsT0VCd5sAmYwmxfxfa7-UOD4xWwkUEXv8ujUnKNd1i7QpJu9FZMkORSxX5JW-V7t5yZCD5cltU6bxzrbk4oghM4FGNNuyr9Lo2nRNzjBCebspkux8vsxvpnCNhxDQqgsUo/s1600/139578590.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
If that's you, you are not alone. Many believers, new
and old, have refrained from joining community life or praying with others due
to fear. Reasons vary, but often it’s because we tend to see prayer as an
outward expression of our inward spiritual life—and that level of sharing can
leave us feeling vulnerable. If you’re hesitant to pray with others, I’d like
to encourage you that, just like team sports, community life is actually a good
place to begin flexing your <i>prayer</i>
muscles.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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One of the advantages of community life is meeting others
with similar experiences. There’s great comfort in knowing that we aren’t alone
and that someone else understands our struggles. Another advantage is realizing
that we are all in different places in our journey. This allows us to give
encouragement to some and receive it from others. In community life, as we
listen to others pray, we find various forms of expression to draw from. Our
styles may be different depending on our background and personalities. Some
folks pray using eloquent language, some cover a subject in great detail, and
others speak simply and to the point. Having a sincere heart is all that
matters, so joining with others can help us learn.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Afraid of messing up or saying something stupid? </span></b>Two
perspectives will help us focus on Jesus and take our minds off of ourselves
and what others think. First, prayer is best approached simply. Jesus said we
can come as a rookie. Well, actually he said we can come as a child <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%2010:%2013-15&version=NIV">(Mark10:13-15)</a>. God invites us to come with the simple faith and language of a
child. Jesus wants us to have a relationship with our heavenly Father so much
that he opened the way for us to have access to him. We are invited to sit in
our Father’s lap and talk with him. As we get to know him more, we learn to
listen and our conversation becomes richer.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Second, it’s important to view prayer as an act of worship.
Prayer is our fellowship offering—like saying “I enjoy hanging out with you.”
It is a pleasing aroma to God. If you’re worried about being judged by others,
let me assure you that those who would judge are treading on holy ground. Only
God can know the intentions of our heart, and he values the prayer offered in
faith so much that one day all the prayers of God’s people will be poured out on
his altar <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Rev.%208:3-4&version=NIV">(Rev 8:3-4)</a>. It’s important to honor the prayers of others in the
spirit in which they are offered, just as it’s crucial that we offer our own
prayers with our minds focused on our Father rather than people. I’ve struggled
with people pleasing myself, and I know it’s something God can help us
understand and overcome. A desire to learn is all you need to get off the
sidelines.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Here are a few steps to help you get in the game: </div>
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</div>
<ol>
<li><b>Be</b> <b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">open
about your fears, and be willing to try.</b><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> A woman who recently joined our
group shared, “I don’t really know how to pray.” She did fine because she was
sincere, and she was herself. She didn’t try to be something she’s not.</span></li>
<li><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Start by
thanking God.</b><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> Jesus gave us the Lord’s Prayer as an example, and there are
many acronyms to help make it easy, but when you are starting out, thanking God
is an easy way to begin.</span></li>
<li><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Keep it
simple.</b><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> If you are ready for the next step of asking on behalf of another
person, begin by thanking God for who he is in their circumstance. From there follow
up by inviting him to help in their area of need. For example, “Lord, thank you
that you love my friend Sally, and that you are her </span><u style="text-indent: -0.25in;">provider</u><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">. Please
help her </span><u style="text-indent: -0.25in;">find a dependable car that she can afford</u><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">.” That’s it! It’s
that easy to pray and express care for others by doing so.</span></li>
<li><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Continue
learning.</b><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> I recommend Lynden author Alvin VanderGriend’s book, </span><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Love-Pray-40-Day-Devotional-Deepening/dp/0979361117">Love to Pray</a>, </i><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">as a good introduction to
prayer.</span></li>
</ol>
Who knows, you too may love to pray!<br />
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto;">
How
has community life encouraged you to grow in your expression of faith? What
have you learned about prayer from the example of others? <o:p></o:p></div>
Jeanie Brumleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15011491077125444593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450089540044783985.post-55174450386920098812013-03-18T14:27:00.000-07:002013-03-18T14:27:05.287-07:00Holding on, While Letting Go: Traversing discouragement<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
It happens to all of us at some point, disappointment, unmet
expectations, or a conflict resulting in emotional pain. Our instincts may be to
deny, suppress, medicate, or bear up under the pain, but it is impossible to
live life safe enough to avoid painful struggles. I have found this to be
especially true when I care passionately about something, or when I’m on a
journey, stepping out in faith, or pursuing a dream or calling. Maybe you can
relate to experiencing discouragement in the middle of one of those journeys
where hope and faith have propelled you to a high place, only to find your feet
suddenly at the threatening edge of despair, uncertain where the next step or
handhold is to deliver you to your destination? What truths can we use to
traverse these rocky places, to know where to hold onto in hope, and whether
our footing is on solid ground along the journey? <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Perhaps you have some suggestions gained from personal
experience? Here is a brief list of perspectives that God has taught me over
the years, and reminded me of recently when experiencing a series of
disappointments. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><i>Hold onto…<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>God, and a godly view
of his attributes as revealed throughout Scripture.</b> It’s important to
examine our <i>godtalk </i>and reconcile it
with the Truth found in God’s Word. If we have a lacking or polluted view of
God’s attributes we are vulnerable to Satan. When Jesus was tempted in the
desert, he always answered Satan’s lies with God’s written truths. (Matt.
4:1-11).<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>love for others as
ourselves. </b>This topic requires so much, but briefly I want to share the foundational
perspective of asking God to help us see others through his eyes. Where is he
working, and how does he want to use this person for the kingdom? What does
love look like in 1 Cor. 13? Whether in times of peace or conflict, do our
motives match with this kind of love? Are we willing to serve a greater kingdom
cause? Loving others is an opportunity to join with God’s heart through prayer
and the work of the Holy Spirit.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>your identity in
Christ</b>. Just as we need a godly view of God’s attributes we need a godly
view of ourselves as his redeemed people. We have it all in Christ! We have
been blessed in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing. He chose us
before creation to be blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us to be
adopted as sons. Freely he has given us glorious grace, redemption through his
blood, and forgiveness of sins, and so much more! (Eph. 1:1-17; et. al). Examining
our <i>self-talk </i>for signs of an enemy breach
may reveal that we have given Satan an entry point. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>the Potter’s hand. </b>God
often uses difficulties in our lives to transform our character into
Christlikeness, and restore wholeness to our painful personal issues. He isn’t looking
to use perfect people, but he will only advance those who humble themselves to
the Master’s design. Is there a reoccurring pattern in your life? Let Jesus
take you to a place of healing. 2 Cor. 3:17-18; 4: 7; Hebrews 12:1-8<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>today.</b> While we
persevere in faith for the promised hope of tomorrow we need to continue living
in the present with gratitude, praise, and joy, even when it takes all we have
to do so. Our eyes can easily become fixed on a future hope and neglect the
gift of today. If we are not careful our promise can become an idol greater
than our appreciation for the Giver. God is more than enough for today and
tomorrow! Let the joy of the Lord feed your soul today.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6tQvHPIwzgWFOQhWkGWAKlEmTiuZjUrK1LLSYxNVx_nXgqJRBAL8ca3m_WfO9QadsguucxZhCUJ9z88vBKh-GnsaQqTAXzlrTGkU_xyBZbQVjsDFVsEnwDmUlBauB_22MXcje1ziKxsw/s1600/rock+climbing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6tQvHPIwzgWFOQhWkGWAKlEmTiuZjUrK1LLSYxNVx_nXgqJRBAL8ca3m_WfO9QadsguucxZhCUJ9z88vBKh-GnsaQqTAXzlrTGkU_xyBZbQVjsDFVsEnwDmUlBauB_22MXcje1ziKxsw/s1600/rock+climbing.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><i>Let go of…</i><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>extra baggage. </b>We
start out with intentions of traveling light, and end up gathering things along
the way to help manage difficulties. In 12 Steps, these “things” that help us
manage are referred to as immature and ineffective ways of coping or relating
to others. In relationships they may look like using a sledge hammer to swat a
fly. They come in varying forms of blame, unforgiveness, people pleasing, defensiveness,
perfectionism, etc. If debris is scattered along the trail behind, it’s time to
make amends with our past. (Rom. 12:18; Eph. 4:15).<b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>the weapons of the
enemy. </b>Like avoiding poison ivy along the trail, we must not handle the
weapons of Satan. Their forms are subtle, casting doubt and obscuring truth. Most
often they are seen in misunderstandings and false attributions about the behavior
and motives of others, or they are seen in how we make sense of our world, our
explanatory style. They are particularly attractive because we appear like an
innocent victim in our own eyes, while we see others as purposefully against
us. When this happens we need to go back to the things listed above, to the
things “<i>we hold onto</i>.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>control</b>. It is our fleshly nature to try and control
things ourselves, especially when God’s timing seems delayed. We see this
example in Genesis when Sarai gave her handmaiden, Hagar, to Abram so that the
promise of a son could be fulfilled. When we try to control situations or
others we are depending on ourselves, not God. In your journey, “may the God of
hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may
overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13<o:p></o:p></div>
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As God continues to teach these things to me I return to
them often as a place to regain perspective. Though in some areas I continue to
struggle, I have found that I more quickly come to a place of rest and
perspective by knowing what to hold onto, and of what to let go. What has been
your experience in difficult times? What thoughts would you add? Is there anything you identify with most? I’d
love to hear your thoughts, and I hope to expand further on these and others in
future blog posts.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Jeanie Brumleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15011491077125444593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450089540044783985.post-6406038668996420572013-01-24T16:57:00.000-08:002013-01-27T08:59:07.534-08:00Walter Cronkite Meets Jesus<u style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: 0.5in;">Saigon and the Mekong
Delta 1968</u><span style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: 0.5in;"> -</span><span style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: 0.5in;">At the age of 9, the fact of
my father’s absence was like an undercurrent of heaviness, and a constant
reminder his return was not guaranteed. Letters sent from Vietnam said little
about the makings of war. Dad liked the cookies, he liked the poem about
watching him make faces while he shaved, and the photographs of Brownie Troop
activities. Mom seemed to be somewhere far off those days, the television on in
the background, mom in the kitchen, and the interruptions of a young girl’s
voice met with annoyance. Sometime after supper I’d hear the familiar voice of
Walter Cronkite beckoning me to the television.</span><br />
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAAEOu7SUv-wxAuRGjmucNF-6SRnwQ31nGVoPBTDlEk-GFFNPAWtUQyGo5OKMjR3bXl9ZDxkKXpq-ztPbRHkdO_t75noIKLPsYhiGNCM2nn9cNRikS9iLCrhcOapN5IQ_6vdQj1Lysmjc/s1600/walter_cronkite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAAEOu7SUv-wxAuRGjmucNF-6SRnwQ31nGVoPBTDlEk-GFFNPAWtUQyGo5OKMjR3bXl9ZDxkKXpq-ztPbRHkdO_t75noIKLPsYhiGNCM2nn9cNRikS9iLCrhcOapN5IQ_6vdQj1Lysmjc/s1600/walter_cronkite.jpg" width="200" /></a>There was always a
dilemma involved when watching Cronkite, part of me wanting to know what was
happening in Vietnam, the other afraid of what I would learn. Walter Cronkite
had all the facts, everything a young girl wanted to know; be it the current location
of the Viet Kong, marches on behalf of the poor people living in shanti towns,
anti-war protests, civil liberty protests, presidential politics, the
evacuations of Hueys, the status of half a million U.S. troops serving in Vietnam,
and the downward plunge of a bayonet. I became a humanitarian and a disciple of
Jesus under Cronkite. Maybe Jesus and I could make a difference in this world?
No, dad’s name wasn’t on Cronkite’s casualty list; maybe he’s okay, and then…
Cronkite brought news of another war, one closer to home. First, Martin Luther
King, Jr., and then within 2 months Robert F. Kennedy had been assassinated. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I did not grow up
in a religious home, but for some reason during my dad’s deployment my mom dropped
my sister and me off at a nearby Vacation Bible School. It was there that I
learned about the life and love of Jesus, that he was my friend, and the hope
of the world around me. It wouldn’t be until my early teens that I would
understand my even greater need for Jesus. As parents we often wonder about our
world today and its impact on our children. We may try to protect and shield them from the
harsh realities of conflict in an increasingly global society. But, I personally
wonder if Jesus would become the “hero” he was to me then, without the stark
contrast of a world on display in need of desperate hope. Is such a contrast even possible when our children have so much today? I never went to
Disneyland as a child, but I did see the Redwood Forest. My first tech gadget
was my very own tape cassette player, and birthday parties then included a
gathering of friends around the dining table with a homemade cake. Our lives were simple, but we were content. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Consider our
children’s heroes today. Do our children have an appreciation for the kindness of
Jesus, his deep care for those who suffer, his compassion for the poor, and his
promise of justice one day? Better yet, do our children know how much our world
needs a kind hero, the very hope of the nations? What kind of “funnelvision” do
children experience in today’s media mix? I’m certain my own mother had no idea
of the internal processing I experienced. What thoughts do you have? <o:p></o:p></div>
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Jeanie Brumleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15011491077125444593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450089540044783985.post-88595156792892165862013-01-07T16:01:00.000-08:002013-01-21T08:48:06.312-08:00Walk with Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtd0o2eVanxFu3MNdi4NGKaavvyORTY4Go0cV0KKG6CjOdUc8CBS1JVP81pxnXb-C0Rc9CWjanHNoIH91WxuoO2q-NQCH03XO_x1cpaJXYJQx-MluiW2kyH60FuMFOOF-iX6nh99Gim2Q/s1600/pathway.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtd0o2eVanxFu3MNdi4NGKaavvyORTY4Go0cV0KKG6CjOdUc8CBS1JVP81pxnXb-C0Rc9CWjanHNoIH91WxuoO2q-NQCH03XO_x1cpaJXYJQx-MluiW2kyH60FuMFOOF-iX6nh99Gim2Q/s320/pathway.JPG" width="240" /></a>When I was in the 6<sup>th</sup> grade I somehow managed to
be elected student body president of our elementary school. There was just
one problem or so we thought, I didn’t know Roberts Rules of Order. The truth
was no amount of classroom study could make up for what I lacked in a role
model. My male teacher and principal had expectations for the academic aspects
of the role, but what I didn’t realize at the time was that I lacked a personal
belief that I could assume a role of leadership. As a woman, it simply wasn’t
modeled for me.<br />
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That belief became a story that I took with me long into my
adult life. The women in my life were nurturing mothers, teachers, and Girl Scout
leaders, contrasted by the Gloria Steinem’s in the media who were viewed as
radical in my childhood home. But there was one reoccurring problem… my wiring
contains a propensity for leadership. Jesus modeled discipleship, or mentoring over
the course of three years. In contrast, I wonder what do we as leaders today hope
to gain through periodic meetings and a handbook? Is it only our knowledge that
has value, or is there something to be gained from the relationship? <o:p></o:p></div>
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It was through relationship over time that Jesus revealed
Himself to his disciples, and they came to know Him as the real deal. It’s
pretty easy to offer good advice and pleasant company over an occasional cup of
coffee, and a meeting here and there. It’s another thing to take someone with
you, to walk with them and to allow authenticity and experience to become a
mutual instructor. For example it’s one thing to know your future spouse over
fine wine and dining. It’s quite another thing to work with them in the
trenches. As leaders we need to be willing to walk with others. Even if it
seems like it will slow us down, or interrupt personal agendas. Investing in
others holds the promise of doubling the workers for the harvest.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Whether we are leaders, co-laborers, or following others,
it’s through relationship that we learn about another person and their
strengths, and about ourselves and our weaknesses. It means pushing back
against culture, and the expectation of instant results with minimal investment
of time. It means letting go of our independent, pride based ways that carry a
toddler’s “I do it!” mentality. We were made for relationship. Jesus knew his
disciples, he knew their strengths and weaknesses, and He knew God’s purposes
for each of them. How well do we know the people we lead? How much of ourselves do we
allow to be known by those we lead? Are we humble enough to learn from those who
follow us? <o:p></o:p></div>
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During His time with the disciples Jesus gave them a glimpse
of what he was creating in them. Paul exhorts believers, "encourage one another and build each other up." We
all need encouraging mentors or role models who recognize what God is doing
within us and join with Him. Paul exhorted Timothy to use the gifts that were
given to him. Timothy’s calling was reinforced through the Holy Spirit, through
experience, and through the reflection of Paul’s discipleship.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrxVLsVNTD7nAvySVnriJLiNWDiUms35DmxfK9l8Kn0_it7631BFfgCNRuO4CWoZd7pnZX1ImOJ7FrN9TcSghMHjbuLVJ__L6yp1QPwCGm1TAiRk2jUiUOw327OLT_L5WLZ37lE9SsEws/s1600/double+prints.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrxVLsVNTD7nAvySVnriJLiNWDiUms35DmxfK9l8Kn0_it7631BFfgCNRuO4CWoZd7pnZX1ImOJ7FrN9TcSghMHjbuLVJ__L6yp1QPwCGm1TAiRk2jUiUOw327OLT_L5WLZ37lE9SsEws/s200/double+prints.jpg" width="184" /></a></div>
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For me, there was one more significant life experience that lacked
discipleship. At the age of 13, I accepted Jesus as my Savior during an
evangelical service. Though I would go back to that church over several months,
the weekly message remained the same, “Repent and be saved!” I never grew to
understand my new faith beyond my own failure to live a life free of sin. There
was so much I didn’t know to ask, and there was no one to guide me with the next steps. But Jesus is faithful! Ten years later he led me to a fellowship where I not
only met Jesus, but the Word, and people who were willing to walk with me. A
lot happened in between those ten years, and sometimes I wonder “what if, what
if I had been discipled in my faith?” Rather than dwell in the
past however, I am looking to the future, and asking Jesus to remove any
obstacles within me. I want to be fully equipped as a worker for the harvest. <o:p></o:p></div>
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An additional question that occurs to me as I
contemplate the subject of discipleship, is one I have to ask myself today,
“Why haven’t I sought a Christian woman leader as a role model and mentor?” For me the
answer is longtime fears, a fear of being rejected in the role itself, and a fear that I
would be asking too much of another person’s time… What are your thoughts? What
if anything is holding you back?<o:p></o:p></div>
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"Let us not give up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another --and all the more as we see the Day approaching." Hebrew 10:25</div>
Jeanie Brumleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15011491077125444593noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450089540044783985.post-47224875011025587232012-12-19T17:29:00.000-08:002013-01-11T21:20:55.036-08:00What's Love Got to Do with the Adam Lanza's of this World?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCPHbEdoEJZV53ZaNtDJdudxiz0b868AQ1atXdkk15lW3DMf8b7X5BJp79n601s4i29b84FFIdg9vVPD9Fjk-K74_3Gf94OipQVLaNjTI9Xe2QewXsi7rqgGH0udpUbift2nq7ZB6nNog/s1600/kindness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCPHbEdoEJZV53ZaNtDJdudxiz0b868AQ1atXdkk15lW3DMf8b7X5BJp79n601s4i29b84FFIdg9vVPD9Fjk-K74_3Gf94OipQVLaNjTI9Xe2QewXsi7rqgGH0udpUbift2nq7ZB6nNog/s200/kindness.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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I may take some flak for this, but what if someone in Adam
Lanza’s shy world had reached out to him? We may never know all the facts of
his life and relationships. Perhaps we will even hear stories of individuals
who reached out to him, who expressed kindness and acceptance. Jean Vanier,
reminds us that, “the way of the heart implies a choice. We can choose to take
this path and treat people as people and not just as machines.” So we can look
at a person not just in the role we see them serve. For example looking beyond the
role of a teacher, grocery clerk, or a socially isolated classmate to looking at
the person, which means we understand they have a heart, that they may have
difficult relationships, and that they need our “understanding and kindness.” This
implies that we have something to give in our circles of influences, those
places where we encounter others. We can choose to stay uninvolved and self-focused, or through intentional awareness we can offer kindness and acceptance.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Vanier goes on to say, “our hearts can become hard like
stone or tender like flesh. We have to create situations where our hearts can
be fortified and nourished. In this way, we can be more sensitive to others, to
their needs, their cries, their inner pain, their tenderness, and their gifts
of love.” I wonder if Adam ever experienced such compassion? What gifts of love
were never expressed towards him, and therefore, never manifested in him? It is
easy to hate him now, to call him a monster. We simply cannot fathom beyond the
realm of evil what could initiate such a horribly tragic crime. I realize I’m
taking a lot of license in perceiving the heart, the pain, and the needs of
Adam and others like him. I am not writing to debate evil vs. mental illness,
or that a life of personal pain negates the call for justice. I am writing
about love. <o:p></o:p></div>
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You and I have the daily opportunity to live a life of love.
“Mature” love puts its trust in God and can therefore stand in a place outside
of belonging. It can discern when to take risks that bring life and “meet
people who have been excluded” Vanier. What brings life to another person? <o:p></o:p></div>
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We bring life when:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>our hearts are open to others who may be weak or in need.</li>
<li>we humbly serve others, when we listen to their story, and when we see them through God's eyes.</li>
<li>we see gifts in others and see what unites us.</li>
</ul>
</div>
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Do you recall the story of a woman who was going through
some tough times only to find herself hostage to a man fleeing from the
authorities? Fearing for her own life, this woman found the courage and the then
faint story of hope to share the gospel. From her own place of pain she reached
out to her captive’s pain. She listened to his story, a life in which he never
experienced love. She saw a heart desperate to be loved and in need of the hope
of the Father’s love. Not only did her
captive give his life to Christ, she was freed and renewed her faith in God.
This is the power of love! <o:p></o:p></div>
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September 1<sup>st</sup> is highlighted as Random Acts of
Kindness Day. We know the importance of kindness. We understand our need for
kindness. While the day reminds us to be kind, to pay it forward, let’s also
live a daily life of love. Let’s live a life that is aware of the needs of
others, that consistently reaches out to others in the pace of our everyday
lives and circles of our influence. As we practice awareness let’s also add the
power of Christ’s sacrifice by practicing Random Acts of Prayer. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Jeanie Brumleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15011491077125444593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450089540044783985.post-56372283917676826092012-12-05T15:46:00.000-08:002013-01-11T21:21:46.133-08:00What Would You Do? (WWYD?)We’ve often heard the question asked, “What would Jesus do?”
(WWJD?) It’s a question we ask ourselves, and one another from time to time when
we are seeking Jesus’ example of living on mission, and relating to others. Our
recent local and national elections have reminded me of how polarized our
politics are, and of how that polarization carries over into religion, and the
view many not-yet believers have of Christianity. Jesus made a distinction
between the religious practices of the Pharisees, and His example of going to sinners
and the sick, to the oppressors and the oppressed, and to the lepers and the outcasts
in society.<br />
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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I got to thinking...what would you [and I] do, (WWYD?) if Jesus
was visible in the flesh? Like the apostle Thomas, would it matter if we could see Jesus, and touch His hands? When in His visible presence, would we behave or respond differently to the world around
us? Would we identify the hypocrisy that not-yet believers find so evident in us? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA9GD70pLP37luhiqpHfTll9QI6xoK4eULXDv3tsU8DAWR93LiFIpGsLp4MI5nEmXbV8hPd8jjsEeooxBVUwBVmX-8Vq51tUBiUBlVuwKhLxqffWJd-sf3znN37qtkWN-pYyBS2B3_znM/s1600/eye+on+jesus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA9GD70pLP37luhiqpHfTll9QI6xoK4eULXDv3tsU8DAWR93LiFIpGsLp4MI5nEmXbV8hPd8jjsEeooxBVUwBVmX-8Vq51tUBiUBlVuwKhLxqffWJd-sf3znN37qtkWN-pYyBS2B3_znM/s200/eye+on+jesus.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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I
actually considered ordering a life-sized cardboard cutout of Jesus as an experiment, and taking it with me so that I could have a visual reminder that Jesus is always here with me. In the busyness of life, I think we often need to remind ourselves of the constant implications of faith. Imagine, taking Jesus to church…would He have our attention? Would we stumble
over one another in our efforts to serve, to give, to spend time at His feet?
How would our love be different; our priorities; our gratitude; and our
willingness to sacrifice? <o:p></o:p></div>
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Are you and I practicing a religion, or are we following
Jesus? What would YOU do, (WWYD?)? Practice His presence. Spend time with your
Savior. Welcome the Holy Spirit. Take Him with you wherever you go…<i>Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Heb. 11:1</i><br />
<i><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
Jeanie Brumleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15011491077125444593noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450089540044783985.post-19254534541094206732012-12-03T13:46:00.005-08:002013-01-11T21:36:07.232-08:00Living Faith<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkonsDgFWXbd1w-gQgTlNl0L0ikK4UfNLZaOctpwvQrO3996ri2_Ri0Ts_phmeyVjtDMUJXyZ-7B0qeFDnZ72EStouXCWV9SybddwQRa5fA6k8WXzbWBrwzamxFTej3biA9a-7yfEnOIY/s1600/Prayer+Power+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkonsDgFWXbd1w-gQgTlNl0L0ikK4UfNLZaOctpwvQrO3996ri2_Ri0Ts_phmeyVjtDMUJXyZ-7B0qeFDnZ72EStouXCWV9SybddwQRa5fA6k8WXzbWBrwzamxFTej3biA9a-7yfEnOIY/s200/Prayer+Power+(1).jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Have you ever gone through a
famine or lean times in your prayer life? I know I have, even recently. It’s often
said that we can become disconnected from Jesus when things are going well and
we are in a place of </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">false </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">independence. However for me more recently, I found
myself battle weary. Sometimes it seems like the enemy is winning; like the
warriors are few and any ground won is quickly lost. For the past nine years I
have been on a spiritual journey desperate to see the glory of Jesus among
believers in the Church and not-yet believers within our community. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">That desperation led me to
many things. It inspired me to be an advocate for prayer in the lives of
believers; it led me to question and examine culture both within the church and
those to whom we have been sent; and it compelled me to evaluate my role “to
seek and save the lost,” and to look for ways to do so by thinking outside the
box. I even went back to school to obtain a degree thinking that reaching out
relationally would require knowledge that I lacked. The truth is, all we need
is Jesus and this is no trivial truth. It is The Truth! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">We have been redeemed! We
have the love of Jesus in us and His example of love and sacrifice to guide and
transform us into His likeness. Though we continue to be sanctified, He remains
with us. I am weak, I struggle with short-sightedness, my focus gets off
course, and I’m inpatient and try to do a lot in my own strength. But, Jesus not
only said we could do this, He sent us, each and every one of His children!
That’s me and that’s you, we’ve been sent into our workplaces, neighborhoods,
and our many activities as ambassadors. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Have you ever planted a seed and
witnessed it take root as faith in another individual? I have twice, but that
was more than twenty years ago. What happened? For me the answer to that question
is that I’ve been busy. Busy working for and serving in the church, going to
school, raising a family, basically doing good things. However, very little of
my time has been intentionally focused on developing natural relationships with
the not-yet believers that have come and gone in my life. What’s with that? I
still think of a woman I met during one of my last classes. We hit it off, we had
coffee together, and then I got a job…I never invested in that friendship. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">E.M. Bounds said, “When faith
ceases to pray, it ceases to live.” To be on mission, to reach the people Jesus loves and the people He has placed in our paths, you and I must have a living
faith. With faith, nothing is impossible. Faith that comes by prayer removes
obstacles in our lives and the lives of others, and enables the power of Christ
to work through us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The pastor of Reality Church,
Britt Merrick sums it up like this, “We know that ‘the weapons of our warfare
are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses.
Our plot of ground is our present culture—where Satan sets up camp. Our weapon
to defend that ground is prayer.” Let’s be people of living faith, let’s be
people of prayer. The power of Christ is waiting for us to join with Him. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Jeanie Brumleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15011491077125444593noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450089540044783985.post-78705819894350249342012-04-24T19:50:00.001-07:002013-01-11T21:38:40.752-08:00Sharing Our Faith through Prayer<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwoU45LyvR79FnLrHXfpcAEjSMth7SBw31ej_NSsde0DGeOuTELjpd9PuvHonuBMZFx2qbMqjtv_H128Nc7DxfaXkgumhXC8akyri5vd5d-tNJmokAUT_kQBVSeVhnPfjVZ8_RzASdnIQ/s1600/One+another.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwoU45LyvR79FnLrHXfpcAEjSMth7SBw31ej_NSsde0DGeOuTELjpd9PuvHonuBMZFx2qbMqjtv_H128Nc7DxfaXkgumhXC8akyri5vd5d-tNJmokAUT_kQBVSeVhnPfjVZ8_RzASdnIQ/s200/One+another.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">Recently during a
prayer huddle before services, our pastor asked if anyone had a prayer need.
Everyone looked around the circle with shrugged shoulders, me included, until
one person shared about a hospitalized infant. </span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">I have often wondered why so many believers
find it difficult to share prayer needs with others, especially a personal
prayer need?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif";">Yet, prayer is an essential
part of our worship. I have to say it again, prayer is worshiping God! It is
our sacrifice on the altar, a pleasing aroma. It is our fellowship offering,
our thanksgiving offering, and our sin offering. It is how God makes himself
known to us and to a watching world. It is how he brings glory to himself, in
the demonstration of his provision by His power, strength, and love… "so that in
all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and the
power forever and ever. Amen” 1 Peter 4:11 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif";">Every prayer offered in
faith and according to God’s will is an opportunity for God to be glorified,
every prayer. If we viewed prayer as an act of worship would we be more inclined
to pray? If we understood that God wants to reveal Himself in a “God-sized”
way, would we be more likely to trust Him for the really “big things,” rather
than rely on our own human strength, and safe and sane plans?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif";">I realize that for more
sensitive matters, not all settings are conducive to sharing, but I think we too
often struggle with this, even in the church community, among our friends and
in our small groups. If we are not careful, we risk by default our own “don’t
ask, don’t tell” policy. A policy where we fail to “ask” God for his provision
thereby, losing an opportunity to “tell” of His glory.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif";">Here are a few reasons we
may fail to ask God, or share our need with others:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Our
independent nature views dependence on God as weak or needy. Therefore, we
stigmatize prayer, only those who are weak need prayer. (the irony)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">We
are full of pride - we “say, I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need
a thing…” Rev. 3:17</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">We
are self-focused - we fear that others will judge us as somehow less spiritual.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">We
are self-seeking - we pray only when we have a need, not for kingdom purposes
and may even forget to thank God.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">We
lack faith - faith in God’s provision, and confidence in his love for us.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">We
are untrained or undisciplined - we don’t know how because it is not modeled
for us, or we lack spiritual motivation.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Lack
of intimacy with God - we see God as distant and have not experienced Him as
our Abba Father.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">Perhaps you can
identify with some of these even if by omission? The point is, when needs
remain unexpressed and the act of prayer remains out of public practice we risk
living powerless lives, lacking an expression of faith that pleases and
glorifies God.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif";">The following are some ways
believers can share their faith through prayer: </span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Keep
a prayer journal, being watchful and documenting God’s answers. Make note of
spiritual markers and tell others about God’s faithfulness. These will become
your “God Stories,” to be shared with others. (Ps 78:4; 105:2; 107:22)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Increase
your comfort level, share with a trusted person or group both your requests and
God’s answers. (Matt 18:20)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Look
for opportunities to pray for an unchurched friend or neighbor who shares a
struggle and then ask if you can pray for them, preferably on the spot. Keep
praying and follow up. (1 Peter 3:15)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Ask
God to increase your faith and reveal Himself, His ways, and His purposes. (Eph
3:16-21)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Spend
quality time in private prayer, both listening to the Holy Spirit and offering praise
and worship to God. (Ps 26:8; 27:4)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Increase
your knowledge and experience by joining with a prayer partner or study group.
(Ps 53:4)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">As
leaders, demonstrate your dependence on God with transparency, asking for
prayer and quickly moving to prayer in your ministry among people. Celebrate with
others God’s provision. (John 15:5; Isaiah 63:7; Eph 6:18-20)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">As
individuals, parents and leaders, don’t dismiss “burning bush” or “Red Sea” opportunities
to trust and obey God in God-sized kingdom work. Invite others to join with you
in prayer. Share your praises corporately. (Ps 40: 9-10; Prov 30:4; Eph 1:18-20)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Finally,
ask God to provide opportunities for you to share your faith, and be prepared “ to give the reason
for the hope that you have…” 1 Peter 3:15</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif";">Ultimately, the depth
of our prayer life is in direct proportion to the depth of our relationship
with God. Asking, and trusting in Him is an act of faith. When we share our personal encounters with a living God, today's world takes note. He alone is the reason for
the hope that we have. When it comes to time spent in prayer, I like to apply this quote, “Generosity
is giving more than you can and pride is taking less than you need.” Kahlil
Gibran.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Jeanie Brumleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15011491077125444593noreply@blogger.com0