tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329159492024-02-20T15:42:53.789-08:00Hallowed Be Thy Name..."God designed you for worship and your greatest pleasure in time and eternity will be found in the worship of God alone and only" Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-48543462614418576742015-02-20T10:37:00.002-08:002015-02-20T10:37:31.898-08:00Creating Painting<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0EBNGLiIzH-RDvvTub0kYRTn254UlpZTsQ6yiWkCkZjl1ZhyphenhyphenSotpfLNPZRM483_qEdqLc04K3KmlBkpnCBDIaksM6Brc20ZSEqEu-UL96wMwrUsf3-XLK1Nf4U6LQR58SqNMciQ/s1600/IMG_1292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0EBNGLiIzH-RDvvTub0kYRTn254UlpZTsQ6yiWkCkZjl1ZhyphenhyphenSotpfLNPZRM483_qEdqLc04K3KmlBkpnCBDIaksM6Brc20ZSEqEu-UL96wMwrUsf3-XLK1Nf4U6LQR58SqNMciQ/s1600/IMG_1292.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The court yard of God Psalm 92</td></tr>
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I have been enjoying art a great deal. Painting takes me places I long to be, even to far corners of the world...it turns my heart to pray for people I am painting for.. I enjoying painting for others, it stretches my mind when something seems to challenging, painting gives me time to listen to music and podcasts, and mainly it's been a place I process life right now. Winter is dark. Painting can be beautiful and life giving. Life is uncertain and can be so difficult, maybe not difficult for me right now but for people I love. I've faced sickness but somehow I still have energy to create. Paintings and crafts from around the world have turned our home into an eclectic cultural experience. I hold our home with open hands and would gladly pack up and move anywhere. No mater where I've lived art and pictures have made it home. Now my husband and I will always get to make our home together. Thankful for him and his love and support of my desire to create and bless others with what I paint.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifb5aX3RthNcliQ4WTcPJA5Wfm8Cjd2qXwIbpu4afNeIlg5h8DruesDW1o1VU7clLAhFmuMpO8L5tToyR7mHNP_pGkM1Eyij-T26Ya_bEbpVvyzdDRL-8cS6egLmsTT5hhdXA8-Q/s1600/IMG_0523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifb5aX3RthNcliQ4WTcPJA5Wfm8Cjd2qXwIbpu4afNeIlg5h8DruesDW1o1VU7clLAhFmuMpO8L5tToyR7mHNP_pGkM1Eyij-T26Ya_bEbpVvyzdDRL-8cS6egLmsTT5hhdXA8-Q/s1600/IMG_0523.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beach in PNG. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MqFC-IqtQpbuZDmHo2MWbWUnqmZBULIA7hWbfqBv48EbPRJDc5NsCCJ-AdYYZycFvdgXNJqKr4-U3Al398qEmx3xu9b6hZwADsEHZVjCqV-LpfrOKcm9sWb2vYPe8ylQ7dU2AQ/s1600/IMG_1223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MqFC-IqtQpbuZDmHo2MWbWUnqmZBULIA7hWbfqBv48EbPRJDc5NsCCJ-AdYYZycFvdgXNJqKr4-U3Al398qEmx3xu9b6hZwADsEHZVjCqV-LpfrOKcm9sWb2vYPe8ylQ7dU2AQ/s1600/IMG_1223.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">India </td></tr>
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Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-13705125298049639362014-10-29T10:47:00.001-07:002014-10-29T10:54:19.532-07:00Its been over a year... i want to write again<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5O6-2NBzXUZPUSYBHO4SdrT6Tv6sazVBywWo4GQGjvT26IPAyiTDRp4hJLhVwgwilgzOhMgeE5d-V-Itv-eyRhPIKeYtcmAvwChG3cILeYcRaAZkbpDfzCxugHqkNTRhlfNsnlQ/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5O6-2NBzXUZPUSYBHO4SdrT6Tv6sazVBywWo4GQGjvT26IPAyiTDRp4hJLhVwgwilgzOhMgeE5d-V-Itv-eyRhPIKeYtcmAvwChG3cILeYcRaAZkbpDfzCxugHqkNTRhlfNsnlQ/s1600/unnamed.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Street</td></tr>
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The Season of life that I am now in is so different then anything I've ever known, it is rich, it is blessed, it is new, it is beautiful, it is challenging, and it is changing me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5uOLPfRLdSWCJiDvrBXc21bgE2gas2TV39o7FgWMDLt8zkMFOlNjHLuKKihI7lIB3HQsE3SpnW31gbatSEYtwLs7j6nwTODuivhK9ZS_5LFhKVoD84qM4uez3v68yA8MSf7c7iQ/s1600/unnamed+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5uOLPfRLdSWCJiDvrBXc21bgE2gas2TV39o7FgWMDLt8zkMFOlNjHLuKKihI7lIB3HQsE3SpnW31gbatSEYtwLs7j6nwTODuivhK9ZS_5LFhKVoD84qM4uez3v68yA8MSf7c7iQ/s1600/unnamed+(1).jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">expression of my husbands love</td></tr>
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More then a few things have been on my heart and haven't stopped going around and around in my mind...<br />
How God orchestrates life as He is outside of time and space<br />
That He brought me to this place and allowed for me to become one with a man who loves and points me to Christ<br />
When the leaves started changing I found myself rejoicing in the rich colors God created<br />
My husband brought me flowers on a day in my heart I was wishing for flowers.. God knows the wishes of my heart..that seem so little and unimportant<br />
Life is hard, health and body are unreliable, but God slowed me down to listen, to pray, to be alone<br />
Friendships are precious to my soul, many friends are far away...i'm called to Pray for them.<br />
Distance in the the realm of praying to my Almighty God means nothing<br />
Giving and loving looks different now...what am I sacrificing...for God, for loving well, for the gospel?<br />
Why are we here and for how long will be here... what will be next?<br />
Contentment and courage to settle down here and put down roots...purchasing good winter boots<br />
Being so sensitive to the Spirits leading...to not get to comfortable<br />
Where will He lead us if He does? We will go anywhere... do anything. Even stay here?<br />
I long to become more and more sensitive to the Spirit of God and know His presence and obey His leading in my mind and in my actions.<br />
Oh the mind, it is where idols are born and sin happens without anyone knowing<br />
To just love well, to feel others pain and joy, to experience the rawness of life with others.<br />
and lastly...<br />
Thinking on and drawing near to my sweet Good Shepherd...knowing His protection and provision...waiting and resting in His presence...and being thankful.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7OJF32lUZ9gi2nUt0iHDM3pGZUYgOZxM7wU5zHDiOqzBrucMTkN7knd4ixxNQ8lcTkwRebxJnVnN_9CFFr0LCF4pdVRiOoii4mlvKq-c28fjMGknnaty08D89y8j-aA3jT5M2xg/s1600/unnamed+(2).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/AVvXsEg7OJF32lUZ9gi2nUt0iHDM3pGZUYgOZxM7wU5zHDiOqzBrucMTkN7knd4ixxNQ8lcTkwRebxJnVnN_9CFFr0LCF4pdVRiOoii4mlvKq-c28fjMGknnaty08D89y8j-aA3jT5M2xg/s1600/unnamed+(2).jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thankful for Farmers Markets</td></tr>
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There are two many thoughts and prayers and burdens and joys to write them all.<br />
Yet this is just beginning and I again want to worship my Savior through creating in word and art.<br />
Expressing life's struggles, digesting truth, and enjoying beauty.<br />
This new season must be documented and thought on ...for I know well that time will go by all to quickly.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdlOj0u7I01GDWjvxNHTAmUv2GsWTzGAHbiFsUiUOQvxU14t5CQWzm1l17_OdPoHw-4bDCNkJUDoHQlfhE-5x4OTzbb_9r02zUDzwxirFTcoDW9Dw_FD0RNznjNG96fXXk7fYQMA/s1600/unnamed+(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdlOj0u7I01GDWjvxNHTAmUv2GsWTzGAHbiFsUiUOQvxU14t5CQWzm1l17_OdPoHw-4bDCNkJUDoHQlfhE-5x4OTzbb_9r02zUDzwxirFTcoDW9Dw_FD0RNznjNG96fXXk7fYQMA/s1600/unnamed+(3).jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soaking up fall and all its glory </td></tr>
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<br />Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-29634829784328839132013-10-18T10:28:00.002-07:002013-10-18T10:28:55.218-07:00Always a Season to Love<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISli80xVcHFHC3kC9pHTp6DpN1BJbYNjN3xrQKMl3pYggQmzqMePBxh7R9t0O1itvu9MdpaOp7Wg6tAzgeJzao9te5AkPxhMoDAtOr8gFTiL62v7PyCrPF6s-9-OoJAz-U117WA/s1600/downsized_1017031608.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/AVvXsEgISli80xVcHFHC3kC9pHTp6DpN1BJbYNjN3xrQKMl3pYggQmzqMePBxh7R9t0O1itvu9MdpaOp7Wg6tAzgeJzao9te5AkPxhMoDAtOr8gFTiL62v7PyCrPF6s-9-OoJAz-U117WA/s200/downsized_1017031608.jpg" width="200" /></a>Seasons, oh season..<br />
Seasons of growth; learning<br />
There are seasons of sadness; Being challenged deep<br />
Seasons of Change; It is good it is hard<br />
Unknown seasons; what might be around the bend<br />
Seasons of unsatisfied hearts; Contentment is hard to grasp<br />
Fantastic seasons to rejoice; joy should remain<br />
Seasons of war; victory is only found in His Name<br />
No mater what season; It is always a season to love<br />
To love well because, unlike seasons, Love never changes<br />
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I find myself continually being places into seasons of life which I never could have planned...though the changes that continues to come are always for good they are not always easy. When days seem harder I find myself looking inward...but Christ faithfully draws me out. He reminds me that every day is a gift from Him and for His glory. No mater what comes my way I am sourced into His unlimited, perfect love which I am to embrace and pour out to others.Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-9978420653374835242013-10-18T10:13:00.003-07:002013-10-18T10:13:38.841-07:00trust and obeyWhat does a heart of obedience look like?<br />
Yielding to the Spirit of God<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCufsgJ2oEaURdvS7vGq3AsP4GWtGSwnmhrQOeN14UQAEcOUD29wGGZIrhO_NOtHsZKlBHgDazaij5nD70TIdksg1wdgtOuPVsguMRsPF3mhBi_LxVmziWLh2FngSffoZgwSVhVQ/s1600/1390493_10153315626510551_1322943367_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCufsgJ2oEaURdvS7vGq3AsP4GWtGSwnmhrQOeN14UQAEcOUD29wGGZIrhO_NOtHsZKlBHgDazaij5nD70TIdksg1wdgtOuPVsguMRsPF3mhBi_LxVmziWLh2FngSffoZgwSVhVQ/s200/1390493_10153315626510551_1322943367_n.jpg" width="200" /></a>Go or Stay<br />
Listening to His call to be still<br />
Trusting Him and His timing<br />
Resting in His unchanging character<br />
Walk in purity and uprightness<br />
Wait for Christ to meet me<br />
Listen for Him to speak truth into my selfish heart<br />
Learn to be quiet inside and out<br />
Trust in the cleansing blood of my Savior to make my desires one with His<br />
Saying Yes when my first instinct is to say no<br />
Most of all a heart of obedience effects eternity<br />
It reflects the very life of Christ<br />
Continual dying to self<br />
Glorifying my Father in HeavenTrudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-63389428656029170872013-06-26T22:49:00.000-07:002013-06-26T22:52:05.537-07:00A Letter to Myself, <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW6k6O7ga2otXfMz7eDsOimTRLywRxU0Z-h8g_rwKR2Bqgdhs9-RT9L-sG8igMWSEU0G1iN4lKRY9LE5e8bOBLV0OlDhD0gTXK1DiesdfowqyM9GDKhi7Jcsoi9B9TyTGnQgRrBw/s1600/0908122052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW6k6O7ga2otXfMz7eDsOimTRLywRxU0Z-h8g_rwKR2Bqgdhs9-RT9L-sG8igMWSEU0G1iN4lKRY9LE5e8bOBLV0OlDhD0gTXK1DiesdfowqyM9GDKhi7Jcsoi9B9TyTGnQgRrBw/s200/0908122052.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alterra: WI</td></tr>
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Wayward Soul, you run to unstable ground thinking it will hold you for the time needed, the time needed to reach what you desire, grabbing for something that won't satisfy, something that will crumble in your tight grip.<br />
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Anxious Heart, you cling to what is seemingly comfortable and constantly gaze at the future, you say things won't fall into place, you walk with certainty...that nothing will truly work out...hurt will come; and for today the worries are to many to count.<br />
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Comfortable Mind, you think you've learned enough, achieved the knowledge needed to walk through the day, intentionally taking time to learn would be inconvenient, what you might learn could cause you to be uncomfortable...aren't you accountable for what you learn?<br />
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Antsy Hands and Feet, to sit and be still could possibly bring you to a sad place so you stay busy, not to busy, but you consistently find something that must be done or that you've wished to do, or a person you certainly should see; fun things are the best distraction, anything to keep you from being still.<br />
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Unsatisfied Taste Buds and Belly, valuing what makes you feel just right, you neglect to be thankful for the things that might not taste the finest; options are wonderful and lightly sweetened things are perfect, is it all about making sure you feel your happy self always? <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8dl0qqBp-5xWYpqbp_bp34dI_FAPpe3O1dAvk5NM1nEXIbdm88Ox-LQXHDMzgnJ_gWjC4MIWz6LGY6GYQFV5Dv9R9WnYUx8kULvZbov16xszb9JPqxsoecSi7QF58E4JUoizVSQ/s1600/image(8).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8dl0qqBp-5xWYpqbp_bp34dI_FAPpe3O1dAvk5NM1nEXIbdm88Ox-LQXHDMzgnJ_gWjC4MIWz6LGY6GYQFV5Dv9R9WnYUx8kULvZbov16xszb9JPqxsoecSi7QF58E4JUoizVSQ/s200/image(8).jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">French Press: goodness</td></tr>
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Dearest Self, you keep missing something huge, remember what you read today? Did it not remind you that Jesus will take care of you? For goodness sakes, the birds are feed, and the flowers clothed, He will be your sufficiency...to the deepest need you can conceive. Also weary self, you read one other thing, neglecting your First Love is a tragedy, He is the One who gave everything to call you child...Sweet friendships are a gift for you, He showers you with blessings, hard situations are allowed with love, and even times of quiet are a gift, it is all from your First Love...He wants to spend special moments with you. True soul-deep security can only be found in Him. <br />
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So dear self consider, slow down and pray, remember you belong to Another and His grace is sufficient for today. <br />
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<br />Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-29886695941594709132013-06-02T11:37:00.002-07:002013-06-02T11:37:43.297-07:00BBC News- In Pictures "BBC News- In Pictures" is one of my favorite sites to go to. (Check it out!) <br />
Pictures speak to our hearts...messages and emotions that words can't.<br />
The gallery is changing often. The shots are of anything and everything from anywhere... beautiful, raw, heartbreaking, concerning, and fun...tragedies are captured and victories are revealed. <br />
Faces. Many many faces.<br />
Deep inside I have a desire to know these souls which are behind the captured profiles... they are beautiful, do they know they are loved? Is anyone there to comfort them as they are weeping?<br />
Pray. I can pray for them.<br />
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I'm no photographer, but I respect the people behind these shots that are displayed on bbc news. They go anywhere and everywhere to capture important events and be a voice for those suffering. <br />
It connects us to humanity. Feeling connected with whats happening around the world is both overwhelming because one feel helpless, and special because it takes us out of the bubble we living in.<br />
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Struggle over the hard pictures. Don't ignore whats happening...learn about it, pray for them, maybe even...help?<br />
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But don't forget to enjoy and respect the shots of things which are beautiful; created things, passions, worship...art. <br />
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<u>http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/in_pictures/ </u><br />
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<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="http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/67905000/jpg/_67905791_67905790.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="A Haitian merchant cries as she watches flames engulf her belongings at Port Market in Port-au-Prince, Haiti" border="0" height="224" src="http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/67905000/jpg/_67905791_67905790.jpg" style="display: block;" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A merchant weeping in despair after fire destroyed her belongings at Port Market in Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti.<u> http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/in-pictures-22728190</u></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
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Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-36203776476704682742013-04-21T12:04:00.000-07:002013-04-21T12:04:49.510-07:00religion: consider this <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Religion: hated, beautiful, sometimes deceiving, other times
true, peace, source of anger and deep fear, discipline, hard work, joy…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m not talking about true religion; I’m talking about what
man has created or found in search for meaning, purpose…peace </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I plea with you, to not take lightly what your neighbor believers ...
or who the man across the sea worships…because to them it is truth and the only
purpose to life…they don’t know anything different</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You tell me, ‘but they are wrong and foolish for believing such
silly nonsense’. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To that I reply…each is born into this dying world without
hope. How do you know truth? If it truly is true then is it not God and God
alone who revealed that to you? He opened your eyes to understanding…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He rocked
your world with sacrificial love and undeserved grace.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Weep for those who
don’t know the peace you know. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwyqRwJby8ZOGmJCdgkCPcic87-BNGeVARGGm8abLNCYHZcityLYy0Z1NRy-U79dMMnwB0JzMSXxuy96_venkqHYdFjS56roFjqUbOYHmWN7VEzg8QVcZG6TXQS0Q7bhW_do62bA/s1600/15544_1248035074468_345529_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwyqRwJby8ZOGmJCdgkCPcic87-BNGeVARGGm8abLNCYHZcityLYy0Z1NRy-U79dMMnwB0JzMSXxuy96_venkqHYdFjS56roFjqUbOYHmWN7VEzg8QVcZG6TXQS0Q7bhW_do62bA/s1600/15544_1248035074468_345529_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pakistan: Photo by Trudi Dalton </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Believe with Fear</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
By Trudi Dalton </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A search to find truth </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
It is evident in everyone’s eyes </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A search to know peace </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Yet what each one seems to find are lies </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Consider the man who worships </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Sacrifices and manipulates and appeases </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
He knows darkness and its sting to well </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
There are no true blessings, just teases </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
The woman who bows down, heart un-mended </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
She dances, prays, burns incenses, searches </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Will her gods think her labor sufficient in the end? </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Beautiful woman, will you always be a worshiper of many? </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Grandfather with a heart rooted in discipline </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
He has taught well, prayed often, protected what is written
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Fasting, honor what he cherishes, never allowed to doubt</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
One religion, he has no ear to listen </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Humanity is broken</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
What’s true for you isn’t true for me</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Hearts don’t know how to be open</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Some consider all to be true, yet are left more confused <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Continue searching dear friend </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
All roads don’t lead to God, but He can meet you on that
road</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
For you, when will the labor for true peace end </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Eternity is a feared reality without Him </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
_________________________________________________</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Response to the beautiful and thought provoking film:
Life of Pi </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
What do you think? </div>
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<![endif]-->Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-20111462844666338072013-03-27T11:41:00.001-07:002013-03-31T09:03:18.307-07:00Thinking about Him: poem and a doodle Thinking about Him<br />
The dark path He walked<br />
His bride<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglFmXO39EDpOkiVCb5uVlDKD5wugZaBEeR0cnMKsLNwKNSHhQhA7hANfuTMY6FXhy28UkiW8e7dGl3lAGMCP1-9pbUfK8idcUmoihtJuz9gaqZpGAMdby3X66f_-JyWuvi19Ikeg/s1600/0326031850.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglFmXO39EDpOkiVCb5uVlDKD5wugZaBEeR0cnMKsLNwKNSHhQhA7hANfuTMY6FXhy28UkiW8e7dGl3lAGMCP1-9pbUfK8idcUmoihtJuz9gaqZpGAMdby3X66f_-JyWuvi19Ikeg/s200/0326031850.jpg" width="200" /></a> was on His mind<br />
The door to God had been locked<br />
<br />
He was walking toward death<br />
The grave thought it won<br />
The wicked thought this was right<br />
They all forgot one thing, He is God's Son<br />
<br />
This path was real and hard<br />
He was left truly alone<br />
Every sin was His reality<br />
Every sin ever known<br />
<br />
The grave held Him with sick greed<br />
Those who loved Him were lost<br />
Yet this was the will of God<br />
His life was the cost<br />
<br />
To take this lightly would be tragedy<br />
It didn't end with death and the grave<br />
The cost had been paid<br />
Only because Life won on the 3rd day<br />
<br />
Thinking about Him<br />
Oh how He was and is mocked<br />
His love for the world was on His mind<br />
I thank Him for the path He walked <br />
<br />
-Trudi Dalton<br />
He has Risen 2013<br />
<br />Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-83234755356314819092013-03-11T14:33:00.000-07:002013-03-11T14:33:07.635-07:00worry much.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh04MNn7Kgs4W6Hl1cmYmIAlZBKAdVWPdthhTRwAxGSTiaFBIDUnIoBGltKN6aklPFLa9g-fVNIWBu1QE9f0EKjsKmfm3p8iDBbSOcB9lp551AGOGxG1_dcmnoHRTNjgrQcTfvEKg/s1600/IMG_2275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh04MNn7Kgs4W6Hl1cmYmIAlZBKAdVWPdthhTRwAxGSTiaFBIDUnIoBGltKN6aklPFLa9g-fVNIWBu1QE9f0EKjsKmfm3p8iDBbSOcB9lp551AGOGxG1_dcmnoHRTNjgrQcTfvEKg/s200/IMG_2275.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Special: mum, her mum and me <br />summer 2010, WA</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
today i started to worry.<br />
why? because i realized i have been planning and thinking hard.. i'm trying to figure out my life.<br />
sounds silly. but i just for once want to truly know what my summer is going to hold. i wanted to know i'll have a job and can make money to pay for moody. i want to know if i'll get to spend most of my summer with my sweet little niece. <br />
i wanted to know. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
i called mum. she said to not worry and to trust God. i know mum struggles with trusting God too...and she said "God knows our weaknesses" He knows we struggle with trusting Him and wants to meet us in that weakness.<br />
<br />
maybe i haven't been spending enough time in the Word. maybe thats why i'm worrying today.<br />
<br />
possibly im frustrated because i've yet again...come to a stand still where the Lord graciously has shown me i can't do it alone.<br />
<br />
God, i want to trust you...truly trust you... i want to claim your peace today. even though today i'm struggling and i miss my family ... You are good. Help me swell on truth.<br />
Show me the line between exercising faith and doing things on my own strength.<br />
<br />Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-28792943917617560692013-03-10T14:03:00.002-07:002013-03-10T14:23:38.606-07:00The Church The Church: Redeemed, Chosen, God’s Beloved<br />
<br />
As I’ve been studying, Ecclesiology, I want to share with you
some of the key things I’m learning. Not just for your sake, for I
honestly have no idea how many people actually read my blog, but for my
sake to have a place to look back and remember these incredible truths.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZzt0UlLghD9h5ATX1JMbyjw4HaxbGl92mYxTu8xlLaBAopr_VztFho7dbs8by2iFfHwOrZABooCJjxsVXNsRLEPEBTfPU9kIqzSOC8r4UbpBglpG8O9ifGbxNz98Hn7thJz06wQ/s1600/0309031546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZzt0UlLghD9h5ATX1JMbyjw4HaxbGl92mYxTu8xlLaBAopr_VztFho7dbs8by2iFfHwOrZABooCJjxsVXNsRLEPEBTfPU9kIqzSOC8r4UbpBglpG8O9ifGbxNz98Hn7thJz06wQ/s1600/0309031546.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">doodle: the church</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Ecclesiology, is the study of the Church, both the universal
and local body of believers. I’m not here to re-teach the logistics and
wordy facts about this amazing study...but what the Lord is teaching my
heart.<br />
“Even though Christianity is individual, it is not individualistic.” Francis Schaeffer<br />
In class we talked about the many divisions in the universal
church, we talked about how easy it is to pridefully say “I’d be better
off living in a log cabin the woods, just me and God”, and we
acknowledged the fact that the Lord is working on so many different
levels through so many different grids of theology. Who am I to say
someone might have wrong theology when there is more visible fruit in
their life then in mine? Can we be okay with this? What would the body
of believers look like if we agreed to disagree on some things...and
still be able to fellowship together and spur each other on in the grace
of Christ to good works?<br />
Oh how important it is to hold firmly to truth and respond in
grace and humility toward those you disagree with. As soon as I respond
in pride to someone I disagree with I am in the wrong... I pray for
humility, I pray that I might see Christ’s perspective of each
believer.<br />
As the church we have grace upon grace upon grace...what would it look like to extend that?<br />
Professor Myers gave us three purposes of the Church that are right on:<br />
1. The upward purpose of the Church is to joyfully and eternally express the Greatness and Goodness of God together in worship.<br />
2. The outward purpose of the Church is to communicate the Gospel to the unsaved and call them to faith in Jesus Christ.<br />
<br />
There is a great cost to this purpose, and “the sufferings of Christ are completed in the suffering of His saints.” (Myers) (Col 1:24,29)<br />
3. The inward purpose of the Church is to express the grace and truth of God to one another in fellowship, service, and teaching.<br />
<br />
These purposes amaze me and cause me to both praise God and pray...because I see this in some churches but not in others...<br />
We have the Spirit of God indwelling us, He gives us a desire
to connect with each other. What might be wrong in the times I don’t
want to connect with other believers? Me, sin, flesh... Is what is
wrong. Me says I don’t need to love every believe, me says if they have
different theology then me then most likely God’s not working in and
through their life, and me doubts the power of the gospel to continue to
transform and refine each believer...including myself. <br />
<br />
Professor Myers pleaded with us to be aware of blind stops in our perspective:<br />
All that the New Testament has to say about our potion in
Christ is corporate! We must participate in each others needs, through
prayer and serving. Confessing together, calling sin “sin” brings a deep
Spirit of unity and allows the grace of God to work deeply.<br />
<br />
Lastly this quote really stopped me in my tracks: read it carefully...<br />
Apology of Aristides (to Emperor Hadrian, 125 AD)<br />
“[Christians] love one another, and from widows they do not
turn away their esteem; and they deliver the orphan from him who treats
him harshly. And he, who has, gives to him who has not, without
boasting. And when they see a stranger, they take him in to their homes
and rejoice over him as a very brother; for they do not call them
brethren after the flesh, but brethren after the spirit and in God. And
whenever one of their poor passes from the world, each one of them
according to his ability gives heed to him and carefully sees to his
burial. And if they hear that one of their number is imprisoned or
afflicted on account of their Messiah, all of them anxiously minister to
his necessity, and if it is possible to redeem him they set him free.
And if there is among them any that is poor and needy, and if they have
no spare food, they fast two or three days in order to supply to the
needs of their lack of food.”<br />
<br />
....that is the early church for you...how have we changed...how have we stayed the same?<br />
<br />
Pray for the Church, pray that we choose wisely our ‘hills to
die on’ and the differences we can let go...pray we never compromise the
death, burial and resurrection of Christ. Most of all, together, pray
for the Name of God to be hallowed and His will to be done on earth as
it is in heaven and for the Nations to truly know Grace... Pray, pray,
pray....in the spiritual realm, on our neighs before the Father is where
true unity is found. Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-67886938721048750022013-03-02T19:17:00.001-08:002013-03-02T19:17:45.968-08:00Gluten Free- a speech<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmfpB6Lnnrd_dZULN4WHM59E2FyDyIehTmOB1pqXgFREj5Qv4uG-a2Ahibe75CrfYurnOu_x9tarSoHvs3aeq7A2piIkwxBLFxyh3AKcQQk_jLEGcg1lTrxP4AaAsqShNNeQp6Eg/s1600/BD12IaRCAAErdZP_002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmfpB6Lnnrd_dZULN4WHM59E2FyDyIehTmOB1pqXgFREj5Qv4uG-a2Ahibe75CrfYurnOu_x9tarSoHvs3aeq7A2piIkwxBLFxyh3AKcQQk_jLEGcg1lTrxP4AaAsqShNNeQp6Eg/s1600/BD12IaRCAAErdZP_002.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gluten Free: at The Pancake House </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 20.0pt;">A speech on
Gluten Free: [Some information came from my head others came from recent news
articles, and some things I say are debatable in the world of science that is
constantly changing] <br />
<br />
Gluten free? A lot of people call it a fad diet, most people have no idea what
it is…but for me? It is a necessary life style, one that I never will chance
because I have celiac disease. Today I want to share with you three categories
of surprising facts. If you take hold of these you will come away understanding
what gluten is, why it is so harmful to many and the benefits of this lifestyle<br />
<br />
FIRST THINGS FIRST. OH, the misconceptions about gluten! Gluten is not glue, or
sugar, or dairy, or only white flour and the list goes on. It is to be exact,
“a protein found in grains such as wheat, barley and rye,” which means that it
is the main ingredient for bread, cake, cereal and pasta. What you probably
didn’t know is that it is in…ALMOST EVERYTHING! <br />
- Salad dressings, soups, most sauces, French fries, soy sauce, some vinegars,
it coats most fried foods, contaminates most oats and is in many candies.<br />
For those of us who can’t tolerate gluten…it is most likely for life and you
can’t just “take a pill” to cure it. <br />
I hope you want to learn about this because you will likely be brushing
shoulders with us ‘odd ones’ wherever you go… Studies show that Celiac disease
affects one in 100 people, totaling to nearly three million Americans.
This disease is often seen in a blood test but they haven’t found an
absolutely accurate way to test if someone has Celiac. Gluten sensitivity on
the other hand is much more common, approximately 20 million Americans are
affected by it. This is usually discovered after a nutritionist advises someone
experiencing certain symptoms to take a 30 day fast from gluten with NO
cheating. <br />
You probably are wondering, “WHY all of this trouble with gluten now?”
And there are those of you who are skeptics that still think it is just a
“fad” diet…but studies are showing that Celiac disease and intolerance is
actually increasing. Scientists suggest that there may be more celiac disease
today because people eat more processed wheat than in decades past. The wheat
used in all our cereals, breads, and baked goods contain a types of wheat that
has been genetically created to have a higher gluten content BECAUSE Gluten
helps dough rise and gives baked goods structure and texture.Our bodies weren’t
made to digest so much gluten, let alone refined and processed gluten.<br />
<br />
Now that I’ve cleared up a few misconceptions I want to inform you about the
surprising facts of how harmful gluten is. If someone is gluten intolerant and/or suffers from celiac disease they may
experience symptoms such as: <br />
-weight loss, fatigue, hives, difficulty breathing, and digestive problems, it
can induce headaches, dizziness, and brain fog where you’re just not thinking
clearly, it even can cause bone pain, behavior changes, muscle cramps,
depression and the LIST GOES ON.......<br />
People with celiac disease who continue to consume gluten end up slowly
starving themselves as their bodies aren’t receiving proper nutrition because
their small intestines begin to shut down. The long-term effects of consuming
gluten for those with celiac disease are: increased risk of cancers, anemia,
low energy, and other health complications due to lack of a strong immune
system.The only known treatment for celiac disease is a gluten-free diet.<br />
You may also be interested to know that untreated celiac disease in children
has been linked to anemia, underdevelopment, and even autistic symptoms.
Irritability and weight loss are the most common symptoms in children…This is
something to keep a watchful eye out for!<br />
Unfortunately a large part of the medical field has not jumped on board with
the seriousness of intolerance to gluten and celiac disease which has resulted
in many misdiagnoses. <br />
It took one young lady 3 years of experiencing a lot of these horrible
symptoms, she visited 75 different doctors around the States before she called
a doctor she was listening to on the radio and within five minutes he told her
she had Celiac Disease…after this, her doctor tested her for it and she tested
positive. <br />
<br />
I hope those surprising facts about the harm of gluten got your attention….and
lastly, on a positive note I want to share with you the life changing benefits
of this eating lifestyle, whether it be by choice or necessity. <br />
Removing gluten can improve cholesterol levels and help heal digestive issues.
Some gluten free products contain antioxidants that help sustain the body. Gluten
is in most fast foods and processed foods, so by eating gluten-free, you end up
staying clear of a lot of unhealthy food choice! You also end up preparing most
of your own food at home by using fresh veggies, fruits, meats and alternative
grains. This is SO beneficial because you know exactly what you're eating! <br />
My mom spent many years with fatigue, brain foggy-ness, and many headaches. She
never tested positive on any blood test to have celiac or an allergy to gluten
but not long after she went off of gluten she saw a huge difference. Its been
more than five years now and she has never looked back. <br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 20.0pt;">In conclusion, I
hope you have learned something: <br />
Whether it be you know better what to cook if a friend who’s gluten free comes over,
(a “GF” friend for short)<br />
OR possibly, as you’ve listened to me today you’ve been thinking that you have
some of these symptoms that in the past you have just blamed on a bad
digestive system or eating unhealthy food. I would encourage you to consider
going off of gluten for 30 days. Remember YOU absolutely CAN'T CHEAT! <br />
Some will try “gluten free” because right now it is a fad diet and if they have
celiac disease like me or are gluten intolerant like my mom, they probably
won’t change back to their old ways of eating, …it is THAT beneficial and going
gluten free is here to stay…I hope you will take some of these amazing facts
with you so that at the least, you can be more understanding when someone says
they can’t have a piece of your birthday cake or at the most, you will pay
closer attention to your body if it is crying out for help.. Thank you!</span></div>
Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-85698859899993710812013-02-05T14:27:00.000-08:002013-02-05T14:27:32.138-08:00 worship..to expound on worship.<br />
its been on my mind for some time...growing as ive seen myself fight within over who and what deserves my praise.<br />
people... oh how i idolize certain people.. friendships...yes i hold them tight and think about them often... people and friendships when turned into an idol quickly...very quickly disappoint and frustrate us.. frustration is when someone isn't meeting your expectation... this is a downward spiral..<br />
dissatisfaction...yes its an idol too...it steals my energy, my thoughts, and wheres on my emotions... for it births anxiety, fear, longings, and painful or beautiful dreamed up circumstances...desiring anything but where i am right now... worshiping dissatisfaction is seen in the amount of time i invest thinking or complaining about my present situation...<br />
the list could go on...not only do i worship people. relationships. dissatisfaction...but also succeeding, praise from others...or being wanted, having plans...and ect.<br />
<br />
oh Christ. refine my heart..steel it and may it worship You and You only.<br />
<br />
"Worship is only fitting and proper for God..." Pastor Pat <br />
"Worship is an active response to the character, words and actions of God, initiated by His revelation and enabled by His redemption, whereby the mind is transformed, the heart renewed, and actions are surrendered, all in accordance with His will and in order to declare His infinite worthiness" <span style="font-size: x-small;">(http://www.theopedia.com/Worship)</span><br />
Worship God as Creator: <br />
"<sup class="versenum"> </sup>For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen." Rms 11:36<br />
"<span class="text Col-1-16" id="en-ESV-29465">For by<sup> </sup>him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.</span>"<br />
<br />
All things are from Him and for His glory... worship. worship. worship. <br />
<br />
He is worthy. No other thing, person, thought...nothing is worthy of worship..<br />
Only my Creator, King, Father, and precious Savior...He is worthy.<br />
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<br />
Practically...in all things, Lord show me how i can worship You, choosing to remain in Your grace... Your grace that intentionally pursues my heart...claiming the liberty i stand in when i'm tempted to entertain thoughts that don't honor You...may i see You working in such real ways in and through those around me that it leads me to worship you...bring me to places where the hard and the tired days...are okay because they are opportunities to worship your sufficient strength and your trustworthy, sovereign, faithful Hand... You are Worthy... Your Promises are true. <br /><br />i worship You. Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-8541025075802639812013-01-11T19:42:00.002-08:002013-01-11T19:42:52.195-08:00its been a while..this is real life. stop consider reflect...to much on my mind... <br />first things first. <br />WORSHIP-
my desire to see the Lord do a refining work in my heart, my idol
factory that needs to be destroyed each moment each day, He is worthy,
and i was created to worship; thankfulness, faith that He's
trustworthy...talking with Him...rawness. real. thats worship. beautiful
<br /><br />second thought- my burden for the kids on my bus has
grown...yet i don't have freedom to talk to them about the Lord, today i
did try.. i heard two of my elementary kids talking about God,
the world, creation, Jesus, what happens when we die... my heart
rejoiced to hear them talking..but then i heard their theology...their
perspective is being shaped by 'religion' of dos and don't...i started
talking to one of the girls about Jesus..i told her "i love Jesus
too"..she said "oh we cant talk about this"...and i said "your allowed to talk about it and ask questions" then she said "i go to
church school and in april i get to have my first communion"...i said
"oh thats really neat"...[i hope i don't loose my job]....i hate
religion...a system that is not of true faith, hope and love is of the
devil ...fact. i hate it. i cry for the kids of this nation, so much
potential, they have freedom to ask questions, but they don't and
expectations for kids are so, so incredibly low.. all they want is to
see kids barely pass each grade and keep them off the streets and away
from drugs... my middle school kids talk about drugs alot...they are
searching and no one is holding them to a standard hirer then that which
would lead them to doing drugs.. <br />burdened. i want to tell them i
care about them and i'm proud of them for doing well on my bus. they
behave really well..compared to some that is.. if one would want to see
totally depravity, come ride my bus. but these kids are great, and alot of them need to be loved.. i missed
two days of work and they were so, sooo happy to have me back. now thats
very special:) <br />kids. i love them. so many are abused and lack the
love that they were created to know and need. God take me to places
where you can love kids through me. anywhere. i'll go. <br /><br />third
thought- servant, not a "leader"..not special cause i'm on 'leadership',
no it means being a servant, humility - God change my perspective of
the people around me, of each member of the body of Christ, they are
precious and beautiful and important, treasured by you,,,love them
through me. <br /><br />fourth thought- i ran into my old co-worker's mom,
she told me her daughter thought id stopped being her friend because she
got pregnant out of wedlock.... if that didn't make me stop and re
evaluate my priorities then i don't know what could.. oh how i must make
things right with her.. 'cause that never was my thought ever...life
got to too busy after i left working in the deli.. i must see her, she
just lives down the street. i want to talk her a baby basket of gifts.
she's having her baby real soon and doesnt have alot of money <br /><br />thought number five- life's going
to get busy soon, all my roommates will be getting here, i want to start
this semester well...last semester was rough, very raw experiences,
learning... . ONLY by the grace of God can i finish this chapter in
this place well. each day is in the hands of the one i worship, the One i
love, He will do great things. He will refine and humble my ever so
prideful heart, He's faithful to discipline and shape the ones He
loves... this is precious, when things are very hard this is what i must
be reminded of...when really neat things happen He is the only One i
can point to. <br />
<br />
last thought- i cherish my family and am so thankful for the special, short time i got to have with them; they support we 100% and pray for me all the time..that's something not many people have...thanks God. Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-68140526804622314242012-07-26T19:56:00.003-07:002012-07-26T19:56:28.851-07:00hospitality."Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality." Romans 12.13<br />
<br />
This verse came to mind this morning when my mom asked me if i was ready to work hard to clean the house for the guests that came tonight... my initial reaction in my head was, nooo... we keep having guests over and ive helped so much already since being home..<br />
<br />
Yet its my parents joy to open our home to people... to bless them with a meal and a time to swim...ever since i can remember its always been their joy. I grew up asking "is anyone coming over for dinner tonight?" :) even though we had to work hard i still loved it!<br />
<br />
Conclusion, hospitality takes work, yet it is still more blessed to give then to receive and i pray some day when i have my own home that i too would make that extra step, be okay with a longer 'to-do' list so that i can practice hospitality. <span id="goog_766771531"></span><span id="goog_766771532"></span><br />
<br />
(post that's been sitting as a draft for too long)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0FpkHWMH7_xdAaspdQ6KST81BO2GRIzxn-n_Nw2rb5AZ3PZhCtOjWgUZQsYFA8N6egc4cZkfwVsF-Qtnk8DOkcyGJ16Ix2cvSAQFgWv6NfqG8UFTF5a4sw0xpD-KFildzN1H7w/s1600/IMG_3158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0FpkHWMH7_xdAaspdQ6KST81BO2GRIzxn-n_Nw2rb5AZ3PZhCtOjWgUZQsYFA8N6egc4cZkfwVsF-Qtnk8DOkcyGJ16Ix2cvSAQFgWv6NfqG8UFTF5a4sw0xpD-KFildzN1H7w/s400/IMG_3158.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-45005798447687077552012-07-26T19:31:00.001-07:002012-07-26T19:33:49.177-07:00simple joysGive Thanks, that is what the Lord tells us to do, no matter what...in all circumstances.<br />
<br />
As i so easily slip into thoughts about me, my dreams and what i want, i loose sight of the the things my Father is blessing with me this very day. I'll call them simple joys. Those things i must not hold to closely but offer back up to my God who has showered me with so many blessings. He is the One to be thanked. He is the One to be praised. He is Sovereign to save, to bless, to draw lost to Himself, to comfort, to allow, to disciple those He loves, to answer prayer... this is a comfort.<br />
to HIM, my beautiful Savior, i offer these simple joys:<br />
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<br />
gluten free muffins from my mum <br />
making Thai curry with my dear brother<br />
cleaning the house with wonderful music playing<br />
spending time with my highschool Bible study leader<br />
hearing my co-worker talk about Christ at work in Her life<br />
children at vacation bible school with big genuine smiles<br />
hugs<br />
getting to see my niece's face on my phone background ALL the time:)<br />
talking with my wise father<br />
watching my brother and his girlfriend build a lizard cage in the back yard<br />
absentmindedly almost putting laundry soap in the fridge! oops<br />
vacation bible school songs that talk about the beautiful characteristics of my Lord<br />
reading others blogs.. God's teaching so many<br />
praying for my mom as she's with my grandparents<br />
a bag of marshmallows..:)<br />
a healing bee sting<br />
driving in a hot car, for some reason i love absorbing the heat with the windows down<br />
feeling the pain of so many hurting in this world and knowing He has a plan<br />
12 days left at home sweet home.<br />
sun setting<br />
Pandora: Sovereign Grace Music radio station<br />
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<br />
<br />Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-18466843130862165172012-07-14T15:26:00.000-07:002012-07-14T15:39:26.719-07:00stop.<span style="background-color: white;">looking here and there to those close and far</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">can even one of them meet my needs today</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">they love me yet i'm not satisfied, not yet</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">my mind occupies only thoughts of me</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">down down down...this spiral goes</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">patiently One is waiting yet to any other i would love to run</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">physical arms and audible words is what i'm looking for</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">His gentle hand is plucking away what i think i need</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">stop. He whispers.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">that list you have and all your desires, i know them, He says</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">just stop.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">for this day look to no other</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">the One who waits for my wondering heart</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">He is gentle, forgiving and kind</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">He is all satisfying</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">to those who cross my path, do they see Him</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">to those who i miss; they come and go</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">i entrust to Him</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">today i stop. listen and wait.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">a master piece is what He calls me</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">to the One whom i belong i ask,</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">"prepare me for the desires of my heart,</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">for in this You are most glorified"</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioC9nRTIECGYsvD1CV-Fu38qhB0KJ2vo8mDUG8XFgteIDcw_dfzo9lb52rIa-rLcwWGn9hzh3agDAnyxfQ_PH4TozsTTFhUtXE8jXFKkmosoNIHcWX8-Ro5fqYD2zoe8_fb0iMcA/s1600/rubsbr001wm_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioC9nRTIECGYsvD1CV-Fu38qhB0KJ2vo8mDUG8XFgteIDcw_dfzo9lb52rIa-rLcwWGn9hzh3agDAnyxfQ_PH4TozsTTFhUtXE8jXFKkmosoNIHcWX8-Ro5fqYD2zoe8_fb0iMcA/s320/rubsbr001wm_lg.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.redletterwords.com/">http://www.redletterwords.com</a>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-8720155604713804092012-07-08T14:47:00.004-07:002012-07-08T15:07:42.243-07:00living in the moment<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4B2JS7SAQAKiiS6IAe2l1pF2BJapsQWcNjB1K5nrYYMkEe3lixv9G6Frw3_eAXEYKfYAmvW1TuHPoRtY3DLjAn7uh4JYcOGiTOQpk0urD1y4roJuJVK-hicxk0GRAt3cmX-wXAQ/s1600/IMG_2161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4B2JS7SAQAKiiS6IAe2l1pF2BJapsQWcNjB1K5nrYYMkEe3lixv9G6Frw3_eAXEYKfYAmvW1TuHPoRtY3DLjAn7uh4JYcOGiTOQpk0urD1y4roJuJVK-hicxk0GRAt3cmX-wXAQ/s320/IMG_2161.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo i look. i love it. its still ... and the shape reminds me of the Trinity.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
living in the moment is something i struggle to do.<br />
being home from school...loving being home..i love my family with all my heart...but knowing i'll be back to a busy schedule soon far away is hard.<br />
<br />
today i went back to my home church. it was so fun seeing familiar faces that i love and hearing the word of God taught. yet something seemed so off...i realized i wasn't living in the moment. Instead of thanking the Lord for the opportunity to be back i became sad at seeing changes and feeling like an outsider in a place i had invested so much of my heart into. Instead of asking the Lord to bring opportunities to bless and be blessed by the body of Christ I just wanted to leave.... or i wanted to stay. but stay for good.<br />
<br />
again and again it gives me such comfort to know this world is not our home.<br />
Oh may the reality of eternity impact ever moment here...every choice. every reaction i have to any given situation the Lord puts me in.<br />
being selfish causes me to miss out on so much.. God isn't limited by the fact that my focus is off...He continues to draw people to Himself..i just miss out on the blessing of being a part of my Father's Master piece.<br />
<br />
it might not just be that i struggle to live in the moment, but i struggle to live in the moment with my eyes fixed on Jesus... yes this is what i long for.<br />
<br />
This song was sung in church today and it always edifies my soul.<br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Before the throne of God Above</span></i>: Charitie L. Bancroft<span style="font-weight: bold;">, 1863.</span>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="font-family: serif; font-weight: bold;">
Before the throne of God above<br />
I have a strong and perfect plea.<br />
A great high Priest whose Name is Love<br />
Who ever lives and pleads for me.<br />
My name is graven on His hands,<br />
My name is written on His heart.<br />
I know that while in Heaven He stands<br />
No tongue can bid me thence depart.</div>
<div style="font-family: serif; font-weight: bold;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: serif; font-weight: bold;">
<u>When Satan tempts me to despair<br />And tells me of the guilt within,<br />Upward I look and see Him there<br />Who made an end of all my sin.<br />Because the sinless Savior died<br />My sinful soul is counted free.<br />For God the just is satisfied<br />To look on Him and pardon me.</u></div>
<div style="font-family: serif; font-weight: bold;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: serif; font-weight: bold;">
Behold Him there the risen Lamb,<br />
My perfect spotless righteousness,<br />
The great unchangeable I AM,<br />
The King of glory and of grace,<br />
<u>One in Himself I cannot die.<br />My soul is purchased by His blood,<br />My life is hid with Christ on high,<br />With Christ my Savior and my God!</u></div>
<br />Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-68618463514320823152012-06-26T23:24:00.000-07:002012-06-26T23:24:06.393-07:00i can't.how to die to self...so that self is gone..so that my faith can be selfless??<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;">i can't muster up being a Christian wonder-woman on my own.. i can't convince myself to constantly do the 'right ' thing. i can't come up with creative conversation starters every time i'm with someone. i can't faithfully pray when i should. i can't act honestly in every circumstance with my own will.</span></div>
<div>
why i think i can come up with a strategic plan to make it to the mission field and love lost people and lead them to Christ when i can't even do the dishes every day with a happy spirit unto the Lord...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
no i can't. </div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrZmWgOVLau8yKYg0-qt4e_OhMtnMoXevhSmDKVkKuwNe8FN2HirbwtbdYRsuYvXVP6mEUDNoTC_yzWJhw3UT9JrhDSf-Gyk7IKDI-WO73uyiuaf5tg9EmE_MmA7i9irYS1GmUPw/s1600/Arl3pfhCQAAPN3t.jpg-large" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrZmWgOVLau8yKYg0-qt4e_OhMtnMoXevhSmDKVkKuwNe8FN2HirbwtbdYRsuYvXVP6mEUDNoTC_yzWJhw3UT9JrhDSf-Gyk7IKDI-WO73uyiuaf5tg9EmE_MmA7i9irYS1GmUPw/s320/Arl3pfhCQAAPN3t.jpg-large" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
again Pauls words remind me </div>
<div>
"<span style="background-color: #f9fdff; color: #001320; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify;">I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me</span><span style="background-color: white;">" (gal 2:20)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
i found comfort in this quote: <span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">"When I understand that everything happening to me is to make me more Christlike, it solves a great deal of anxiety." AW Tozer</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div>
thoughts with no conclusion..just resting in Christ's perfect peace.</div>
<div>
HE IS FAITHFUL TO DO A WORK IN ME!<br /></div>
<div>
Whatever it takes...Father never stop ridding of 'self'! burn on roots in my life that are not digging into You...Oh that everyone who crosses my path would see You, come to know You and Glorify You! amen. </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-63764568841048308652012-06-18T21:03:00.000-07:002012-06-18T21:19:49.690-07:00gumbled thoughts:My prayer is to be Intentional<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfcHWzPtdXFipfHoEAkOXsU3NuWs28TtGeHGpTaEGHW2wKM_rABLnDArsaIvs7anahp7jG1OvND9Ps07TQotVIhwgyzfrfXQWNCxyAQSsmgeb6wExCOSVdFXWoXT5qGYGcOY1_sg/s1600/_MG_9190edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfcHWzPtdXFipfHoEAkOXsU3NuWs28TtGeHGpTaEGHW2wKM_rABLnDArsaIvs7anahp7jG1OvND9Ps07TQotVIhwgyzfrfXQWNCxyAQSsmgeb6wExCOSVdFXWoXT5qGYGcOY1_sg/s400/_MG_9190edit.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">roommates- sisters- friends (Photo: Bree Ammerman)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Intentional</span></b>- This is one thought or conviction rooted from an
accumulation of many thoughts, conversations and prayers. As I talk with other Believers
ive been challenged to think through how the Spirit is revealing my lack of
intentionality in the way I act with others. With one sister we talked about
looking at Christ’s life because His actions are the very definition of being
intentional... He was so compassionate, perfectly selfless, and generous with
both physical and spiritual needs. The very heartbeat behind everything He said
and did was flawless love. Paul tells the Corinth church;</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ (1Cor11:1
)”</b> </div>
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Imitate Christ… wow. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
Christ’s intentional love was not comfortable. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
Living 24/7 with believers (in a dorm) makes it easy to
brush off the necessity of loving each other. Tasks have taken over and become
the only agenda we have. What a dangerous place to be…my attitude says, “ I
like to see people when I want to and I put up a ‘busy’ wall when I don’t”. For
a while now I see a pattern of only talking or encouraging when I deem it of
importance and saying nothing if I am to ‘lazy’ or don’t care. No one is making
an effort to bless me so why should I bless others. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
The point being made is I cannot love intentionally if I
am focused on me. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
Love with faith. At the very end of Paul’s letter to the
Ephesian church he says these very powerful words: </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> Peace be to the brothers, and love with faith,
from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.Grace be with all
who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love incorruptible. (Eph. 6:23-24)</b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
What does it mean to love with faith? This faith is from
God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ; and it produces love in and through
us. When we submit to Christ in us it is His love that penetrates out. This is
the source of intentional love. This love does not disappoint and cause us hurt
or make us require something in return. Loving in faith is not easy but it is rewarding
as you learn to tap into the endless flow of Christ’s love toward everyone. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
As Christ works in and through me it is becoming more and
more evident when I am being intentional and not...the peace of God begins to
lead my actions. This time away from scheduled classes and as work as come to
an end for the summer; every bit of my heart desires to serve the Lord; to not
be lazy or indulge in strictly selfish actions. Again and again I pray that the
Lord might push me out of my comfort zone and put me in places where I must
rely fully on Him to intentionally love and speak truth. I pray He continues to
bring me to a place where I am not comfortable but I am completely overcome
with His peace and leading. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Romans 12:9-16</b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Let love be
genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. </b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Love one another
with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. </b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Do not be slothful
in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. </b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Rejoice in hope,
be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. </b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Contribute to the
needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. </b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Bless those who
persecute you; bless and do not curse them. </b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Rejoice with those
who rejoice, weep with those who weep. </b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Live in harmony
with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be
wise in your own sight. </b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"> Is God’s story [the GOSPEL] WORTHY TO BE
INTENTIONAL about? </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">For I am not
ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who
believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. Rom 1:16
</b></div>Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-19287855467604693632012-05-08T15:10:00.002-07:002012-05-08T15:10:52.605-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYfLD-RDz1ykqw1YLslZouiuOfrNKlBHGlgOwmOWy-elUOEhs6_D4o-2pSbhtGqZGxVezaiD2qu79Z2rlNymPj0cheBfwJaEj2QFuQGnlAEa_HEFCqocu3E0oodZX-8V_OKMs-bw/s1600/image(9).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYfLD-RDz1ykqw1YLslZouiuOfrNKlBHGlgOwmOWy-elUOEhs6_D4o-2pSbhtGqZGxVezaiD2qu79Z2rlNymPj0cheBfwJaEj2QFuQGnlAEa_HEFCqocu3E0oodZX-8V_OKMs-bw/s320/image(9).jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The Gospel of Christ is Leading...</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A life that is comfortable and well ordered is what
America’s culture speaks of as being the norm. Having grown up over in Pakistan,
relatively speaking my life was not marked with suffering. I cling to what is
comfortable. Comfortable for me is home, the nearness and wisdom of my parents,
and the protection of my brothers. I have been loved deeply; I don’t know what
deep rejection looks like or what true persecution feels like. Paul’s life was
marked by suffering. I’ve read Acts and Paul’s letters many times, but I
continually look over the intense suffering and pain that he faced. Pain is not
comfortable. Specifically looking at Paul’s address to the Ephesian church
elders in Acts 20 I have been challenged in many personal ways.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Paul had spent three years in Ephesus
serving the Lord by ministering to the body of Christ there and faithfully
teaching. He reminds the Ephesian elders that this was not an easy task for
him. The Jews had caused him much suffering by plotting against him. He faced
humility and tears. During Paul’s time in Ephesus and in any other place he
worked hard to provide for his own physical needs. What Paul remembered in all
his actions was what Christ said, “It is more blessed to give<b style="background-color: #66ffff;"></b> than to receive”.
These are all things the Lord has been challenging me with in these days.
Recently I hit a wall spiritually and couldn’t identify what was getting me so
discouraged and causing such disunity with those around me. Yet as I have been
seeking the Lord He graciously has shown me that the heart beat behind all that
I’m doing has not been in inline with Him. I have been overwhelmingly selfish
in every aspect of my life and I’ve made no effort to serve the body of Christ
around me. No wonder there has been such a lack of joy; I have not sought to
serve others even if it means sacrifice on my part. Who am I to even think I
have anything to sacrifice for it is all Christ’s and for Him and His glory. </div>
<div class="im">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
The warning that Paul gives to the
Ephesian elders is to “Be on guard”. He tells them that there will be spiritual
attacks. They are to watch out for people who will seek to cause disunity and
bring in false teaching. Paul had taken the time to teach them the whole
counsel of God so that they knew what truth was. As a believer it is my
responsibility to know the scriptures and to walk in sync with the Holy Spirits
leading so that I don’t fall under the influence of false teaching. Our enemy
longs to cause disunity and uses disagreements about the Word of God to tare
fellowships apart. This is something that must be kept in mind no matter where I’m
serving the Lord. It is so important to pray also for those who are shepherding
the flocks of believers that they too stay very aware of false teaching. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
How did Paul value his life? He valued it as nothing.
Despite the fact that He knew the Spirit would lead him to Jerusalem where he
would face chains and affliction he longed to finish the course and ministry
Christ had assigned for Him. As believers we face this deep inward battle
between self and walking in step with God. I know not where the Lord will take
me but I long for Him to take me to the Muslim world. My prayer is that I can
serve Him with complete surrender. I value my life, I cling to people around
me, and I selfishly find ways to get what I want. May God burn all of that away
so that I too can walk in the ministry of “testifying to the gospel of God’s
grace”. By His grace is he refines me, He is faithful to answer my prayer to
prepare me for the road He will call me to walk down. Oh that I might not cling
so tightly to comfort and people but only cling tightly to my Savior. Serving
Him will bring brokenness, pain, and even chains. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Paul’s love for the body of Christ caused him to continually
face painful farewells. This is something I’ve faced many times growing up.
Often they have been farewells when I didn’t know if I’d ever cross paths with
friends again. As believers we have the comfort of spending eternity together.
Also within Paul’s life, because of his love for the body it led him to have
very intimate prayers for his brothers and sisters. The beauty of Christ is found
in these times of weeping. He identifies with this pain and it reveals the
intimate bond we have in Christ. </div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pain is temporary, though I haven’t experienced intense pain
as Paul did I see the extreme importance of asking that the Lord prepare me for
whatever pain He will call me to walk through. The Lord has led me glean from Paul’s
teaching to the Ephesian leaders about his ministry and how they too should conduct
themselves. Having an eternal perspective was the wind that blew Paul’s sails.
God is continuing to teach me, break me, and prepare me for what will come
next. He knows my every need and longs to see me rooted in His sufficient love.
</div>Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-31077340885473704452012-04-28T15:59:00.001-07:002012-04-28T15:59:41.772-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl-QjorPmiU8pKNr-vElxF60jbX3Vtn8KmWstQEPbXyQ_bdN7bdIA2xJ43dp_dNNSKP5neUYcQEm2Hg-x5pOd02DxydWJBKWf1znF1GohQtYvI1T1UXVxRxaCt9Z8_nZb6TwVIqw/s1600/image(6).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl-QjorPmiU8pKNr-vElxF60jbX3Vtn8KmWstQEPbXyQ_bdN7bdIA2xJ43dp_dNNSKP5neUYcQEm2Hg-x5pOd02DxydWJBKWf1znF1GohQtYvI1T1UXVxRxaCt9Z8_nZb6TwVIqw/s320/image(6).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="poetry">
<div class="line">
<span class="chapter-3"><span class="text Ps-131-1"><span class="chapternum"> </span><span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, my heart is not haughty,</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-131-1">Nor my eyes lofty.</span><br /><span class="text Ps-131-1">Neither do I concern myself with great matters,</span><br /><span class="text Ps-131-1">Nor with things too profound for me.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="poetry top-1">
<div class="line">
<span class="text Ps-131-2" id="en-NKJV-16151">Surely I have calmed and quieted my soul,</span><br /><span class="text Ps-131-2">Like a weaned child with his mother;</span><br /><span class="text Ps-131-2">Like a weaned child <i>is</i> my soul within me.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="poetry top-1">
<div class="line">
<span class="text Ps-131-3" id="en-NKJV-16152">O Israel, hope in the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-131-3">From this time forth and forever.</span></div>
<div class="line">
<span class="text Ps-131-3">Psalm 131</span></div>
<div class="line">
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<span class="text Ps-131-3">truth shared in chapel this past week... how often we do set our mind on great matters that are to profound for us to think about...this leads to anxiety and distrust in the Lord... <br />A weaned child no longer is seeking for milk from his mother so he can just rest in her arms... </span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-131-3"><br />Oh Lord i long to rest against you, not anxious to know the unknown but to find my hope being rooted deep into You.. take the thoughts from me that aren't honoring to You... help me to learn that despite my emotions Your promise remain; may i find joy in the fact that the unknowns are Known by You...BE My Hope. Be my resting place. Calm and quiet my soul. Amen</span></div>
</div>Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-23835389818311929282012-01-19T16:05:00.000-08:002012-01-20T11:45:12.283-08:00contentment.Oh Lord, satisfy my ever swaying heart with your love that is solid and secure. You take your children places for a very specific reason, You want to see your children mature in their faith and walking in a way that is fully glorifying unto You. Your faithful and good. No mater the lie or doubt or trial that comes our way; it comes for Your glory. Where you have me now...Oh God may i seek for contentment only in You. Amen.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsid-K_aUWwvWSXMwRevoXXMbhX69DQd6JQkcuwGta4yAN-iNfrGXAFi2k75ynjhrEJjzchlr1JOg3NbdMojxCCkl6inVhbW3lwODihQFkmcyE0UqnTayrYKb-6LHj3PzevVX5Pw/s1600/IMG_2674.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsid-K_aUWwvWSXMwRevoXXMbhX69DQd6JQkcuwGta4yAN-iNfrGXAFi2k75ynjhrEJjzchlr1JOg3NbdMojxCCkl6inVhbW3lwODihQFkmcyE0UqnTayrYKb-6LHj3PzevVX5Pw/s320/IMG_2674.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699500160264306514" border="0" /></a><br />John Piper: "Fight for us, O God, that we not drift numb and blind and foolish into vain and empty excitements. Life is too short."Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-50143673995690038402012-01-16T21:21:00.000-08:002012-01-16T21:40:28.607-08:00scribbles of worship"For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the LORD's glory, as the waters cover the sea." Habakkuk 2:14<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMq1ZF9jD3BJP8MVsctQvEACFt0qFECJfkSKdTHUahUVzbePqQ7M0_pS8YzZjbXC_b9FJH80hjcjFbduX2XtriabcEAS6q9m3w5LCGpr_oUXi9Hl0212KQSt9MrqITClp7Kvtb0w/s1600/IMG_2659.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 529px; height: 396px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMq1ZF9jD3BJP8MVsctQvEACFt0qFECJfkSKdTHUahUVzbePqQ7M0_pS8YzZjbXC_b9FJH80hjcjFbduX2XtriabcEAS6q9m3w5LCGpr_oUXi9Hl0212KQSt9MrqITClp7Kvtb0w/s400/IMG_2659.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698467413906086386" border="0" /></a>(spelling mistake PARADISE) :)<br />on the cross a thief was crucified by Jesus. He said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into Your Kingdom" and He said to him, "I assure you; Today you will be with Me in paradise."<br />In my class tonight i learned that this word Paradise that Jesus used was not Greek or Hebrew but Persian. It means, walking with The King in His garden.<br />This is God's desire. The picture is beautiful! Christ said this while dying for me and you..Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-91915546369026170912011-12-30T23:36:00.000-08:002011-12-30T23:52:06.777-08:00The Christians Greatest Need<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8KX78MTOF3ZI_9QzlOTxbzeeMmYnMme3uRdKsd7Ur3BE90waBOZc519eMYy3E0Yw7z4u9M6gaTrs82M8eJbYZY7OsFWJA5YexBqCUr8RT45_YFG9j6JpMCR_MvEeB6Q2z1D4Wlw/s1600/197375_1006407193922_1037160092_30058619_7292_n.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8KX78MTOF3ZI_9QzlOTxbzeeMmYnMme3uRdKsd7Ur3BE90waBOZc519eMYy3E0Yw7z4u9M6gaTrs82M8eJbYZY7OsFWJA5YexBqCUr8RT45_YFG9j6JpMCR_MvEeB6Q2z1D4Wlw/s320/197375_1006407193922_1037160092_30058619_7292_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692197071958493410" border="0" /></a>One of my first assignments in Hermeneutics class this past semester was to read a small booklet called, The Christians Greatest Need, by E.W. Bullinger. One might think a booklet with that type of title could be boring and most likely something a Christian would already know. Yet, the way the argument was laid out and the points so clearly stated, Bullinger’s writings challenged, and continue to challenge my own spiritual walk. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I would like to pull together my thoughts from what I’ve read and present what I am learning. <p class="MsoNoSpacing"> He begins with the verse Paul wrote to the church in Ephesus, <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>“That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">knowledge of Him</b>:” (Ephesians 1:17 KJV). </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"> Our Greatest need is having “a true knowledge of God”. </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing">One of the foundations of Christianity is faith, faith includes trust, and we don’t trust someone we don’t know, therefore, we need to get to know God. Bullinger brings out the point that we think we have faith when we say we are “willing” for God’s will, yet being “willing” is a clear sign that we do not know our great God and where we stand before Him. As we get to know Him that pitiful, selfish ‘willingness’ turns into a yearning desire for His will to be done in and through us no matter the cost. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Instead of looking at ourselves and our great willingness to surrender we are turned to think of God’s perfect characteristics; His wisdom and love, these are what change our focus. This brings us into the action of desiring His Will. </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing">Jesus himself said, “And this is life eternal, that they might <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">know thee the only true God</b>, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” (John 17:3 KJV).</p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"> How does our knowledge of God affect our day to day lives? Bullinger stated that,“This knowledge [of God] is not only the basis of trust in God; not only the foundation of Christian faith; but of Christian life.” In Paul’s letter to the Colossian church he lays it out so clearly by saying, </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing">“For this reason also, since the day we heard this, we haven’t stopped praying for you. We are asking that you may <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">be filled with the knowledge of His will</b> in all wisdom and spiritual understanding, so that you may <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">walk worthy of the Lord</b>, fully pleasing to Him, bearing fruit in every good work and <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">growing in the knowledge of God.”(</b>1:9-10 HCSB)</p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing">Therefore, if we want to please God in everything, the key is to know what pleases Him! And that is found IN HIS WORD. “This is the one great reason why the written Word is given to us. It is not given merely as a book of general information or of reference; but it is given to make known the invisible God.( Bullinger)” </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing">Consider again our day to day lives. As we get to know God from His Word we better understand how important it is to worship Him in Spirit and truth. That is the only ‘way’ true worship goes upward to God who is Spirit. With an ignorance of who God is, public worship becomes a very dangerous thing.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>As we get to know God not only will our worship change but our prayers will too, “prayer is intended to humble us by putting us into the place of helplessness and dependence…with our faces in the dust before the Mighty God”. Our prayers are more and more about His will and His plan and not ours.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>“Oh to know the love, and power, and wisdom of our God. What a revolution it would make in our prayers, as well as our lives.” ( Bullinger)</p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"> Oh to know God our Father, yes, but also to know Jesus Christ. In Paul’s letter to the Philippi church he writes this very powerful statement, “More than that, I also consider everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord</b>. Because of Him I have suffered the loss of all things and consider them filth, so that I may gain Christ<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>and <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">be found in Him</b>, not having a righteousness of my own from the law, but one that is through faith in Christ—the righteousness from God based on faith.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"> My goal is to know Him</b> and the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">power of His resurrection</b> and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death,”(Philippians 3:8-10 HCSB).</p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Do I, so highly value my knowledge of my Lord? Does my desire for the knowledge surpass suffering? “Oh, to be occupied with Christ; to have Him for our object; and His resurrection power for our lives. This we shall have; and have increasingly as we get to know Christ.” (Bullinger)</p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"> </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing">One main thought that has come to mind after this study is this, the devil is going to do anything he can to keep God’s children from getting to know Him. Without a desire to know my God and to glean from His Word I am useless for God’s kingdom and my personal faith will quickly die as I give up trusting in God, The God who longs for me to yearn after Him. As I learn to walk worthy of His calling and His Will for my life I pray the Lord plants the truths of who He is deep within me that the knowledge of Him might grow into a strong oak tree that is rooted with trust in my sovereign and sufficient God. From that place can Kingdom work be produced; a place of total dependence on knowing, but never fully knowing, who The unfathomable God is and where I stand before the Gospel of Jesus Christ.<br /></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"> </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing">The Lord said through the prophet Jeremiah, “Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth, glory in this, THAT HE UNDERSTNADETH and KNOWETH ME” (9:23,24 KJV).<br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /></p>Painting by Trudianne Dalton<br />"Matthew 10:22a : And you will be hated by all men because of My name."Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32915949.post-29749892848535339322011-12-15T20:45:00.000-08:002012-06-26T23:26:44.012-07:00my prayer.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAqOu7wT0NA0YJGMkyrBwbDgVy-1b0PyYtfh0UI0aDHcHM7tLfsvTKBsLCb5wKaAy_GBuYf-oEhUJHG20tonUynuJpa-9Jul_936qzhc0pyq9vw2WrzDwjM6hlkjhcaRTCmndQ3A/s1600/image_2%25285%2529.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691430729778007986" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAqOu7wT0NA0YJGMkyrBwbDgVy-1b0PyYtfh0UI0aDHcHM7tLfsvTKBsLCb5wKaAy_GBuYf-oEhUJHG20tonUynuJpa-9Jul_936qzhc0pyq9vw2WrzDwjM6hlkjhcaRTCmndQ3A/s320/image_2%25285%2529.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 320px; margin: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 237px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dear Heavenly Father,<br />As I reflect upon Your faithfulness... this is my prayer.<br />May all that I've studied this semester go from my head to be hidden deep with in my heart. May Your Word penetrate deep within my being. By the Spirits work in my life may the New Man that I am in Christ Jesus grow more and more into His likeness. Oh the Old Man that I was. My flesh. My sin nature. it doesn't change. but choosing to claim the truth that my old man died on the cross with Christ is the place where new life is found. My identity in Christ. Oh Father, what does that even look like? The WORD tells me I have every blessing in the heavenly places, I'm a saint, co-heirs with Christ, adopted, chosen, his disciple, a servant, a bride, ....the list goes on. WOW. yet the thing that blows me away is that its not of me..not because i deceiver these titles. no. God looks at me through the cross. seeing the New Man that i am in Christ Jesus. Oh Lord may these truths grow with in the depths of my soul. I'm thankful for where You, O Lord, have lead me and i ask that you would continually remind me to find my satisfaction and contentment in You. My prayer moving into the next semester is what Paul urged the Ephesians: "Therefore I, the prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk worthy of the calling you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, accepting one another in love, diligently keeping the unity of the Spirit with the peace that binds us." Ephesians 4:1-3 Oh that humility would come from my growing understanding of who i am before the cross of Jesus Christ and His sacrifice. Lord may i see the great need for the unity of the Spirit, and what it looks like to walk worthy of Your calling upon my life. Minister to my heart, O Lord, and remind me daily of Your satisfying love that should motivate me to walk in a way that portrays the gospel. This is my prayer in faith clinging to the promise that You are holding every aspect of my life in the palm of Your hand and to claim Your peace that passes all understanding in every circumstance that is to come. In Jesus Christ's name, Amen</span>Trudi M. Daltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08763003444415680859noreply@blogger.com1