The Samaritan Woman

One of the hardest things to face in life is to accept the fact that not everyone you meet is going to like you.  Whether they choose not to like you as a friend, or even in a romantic manner.

When we were younger, you knew others didn't like you because they would call you a bugar-head, or check the "no" box on a sheet of paper asking if they like-liked you.

Now as young adults, we tend to keep things hidden to ourselves, or within our social group, if we don't like someone.

Recently, someone who I thought was a friend turns out to think I am annoying, loud, and apparently can't stand me.  Which, honestly, hurts...a lot.  Also recently, a guy I have been pursuing romantically has completely 180'ed interest in me.  Which hurts a lot too.

So, lately I have been sort of depressed and just have been opposite of who I am.  I have been avoiding friends, doing my best to not start trouble, and have just been a total wallflower.  Which is the polar opposite of who I am.

What makes matters worst is that, I know that isn't what God wants me to do.

Rejection from people is a part of life.  We just need to "keep on, keepin' on," and not let the fear of disappointing others step in the way.

But, we are to focus on God and our relationship with Him.

One example I can think of is the Samaritan Woman.  In John 4, there is the story of the Samaritan woman, who was essentially an outsider to others.  She was a woman shunned by the Samaritan community, and it is said that she had five husbands.  However, it is more than likely that these were just men she had romantic involvement with, not her actual husbands.

Despite the social norms of who this woman was, Jesus approached her and broke 3 major social rules:
     1. Women were considered greatly inferior to men; in public, no Middle Eastern man ever spoke to a woman, not even to his wife, mother, or sister.
     2. No Jew ever spoke to a Samaritan.  Jews believed Samaritans had betrayed their faith because they had intermarried with foreigner.  The Jew and Samaritans hated and avoided each other.
   3. No self-respecting man, especially a teacher, would ever speak to a woman with such a despicable reputation.  This woman was a well-known social outcast.

Jesus not only engaged in conversation with the Samaritan woman and broke social barriers, Jesus taught her, offered forgiveness, redemption, and new life.

Jesus gave her His cup of living water. 

 John 4: 13-14 states:

"Jesus answered and said to her, "Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will NEVER thirst.  

But the water that I shall give him will become in him a 

fountain of water springing up into everlasting life."

Jesus went on to transform her life, He gave her hope!

As soon as the Samaritan realized that she was talking with her Messiah, her Creator, her Savior- She became over-whelmed and went to town enthusiastic to spread the word.

This too is what we should do when we face adversity, at least I hope I can do this one day.

When in adverse situations, I want to spread joy and be of good news.  I want God to change all the internal emotions I have that pull me down, that give me doubts of my worth, and the negative thoughts that tell me I am not good enough.

Nehemiah 8:10 states:

"The joy of the Lord is your strength!"

When you are in a difficult situation when you are an outcast, how do you respond?  

Do you avoid those who hurt you or do you continue the life that God intended you to live?

Are you continually drinking the water of everlasting life?

On a positive note,  I will fight these thoughts of insecurity and doubt.  And, the rejection I face- I will carry on and just strive to be full of joy.

Have a blessed day,

<3 KM

Practically Serving God

I got a job offer yesterday! Yay!  This job position is doing clerical work for the Brody School of Medicine students, or something like that.  So, I will be learning a whole bunch about insurance policies and what not.  Okay, probably not the most interesting job.  However, this job to me truly will be a great and wonderful experience (at least I hope so).

This job position has opportunity to open many doors in the future in health care, which is what I just realized what I needed a week or two ago.

Beforehand, since probably two months ago, I have been pursuing many opportunities to lead me in my spiritual walk and serve God.  I was desiring to serve my summer as a counselor at a Christian camp.  I then thought about doing a missionary trip over the summer in Togo.  And finally, I was considering doing an internship here in Greenville involved with a local church.

I was in the thought process of: I must, want, and need to serve God!  While this may be what I want, maybe what I was pursuing is not what I need right now according to God.

 I was talking to a co-worker where I currently work about all my plans, and she straight up told me: "Kendra, while that may be nice- is it practical?"  She then went on to lecture me how bad the economy is and how rough the job market is.  It was a harsh reality to face then, but I knew it was true.

While God does call us to do things in His name, the timing to do these things is very precise and perfect.  

"For we are God’s workmanship,

 created in Christ Jesus to do good works, 

which God prepared in advance for us to do."

-Ephesians 2:10

God's timing has always been precise, from the time of David becoming king of Israel, to Noah building to ark, to Joseph becoming a close adviser to the Pharaoh of Egypt, to Moses leading the Jews out of Jerusalem, to Esther becoming queen to save the Jews, and definitely the timing of Jesus to start His ministry.

I'm guessing Jesus was ready to start His ministry by the time He was 7 in the temple preaching to the Rabbis and other teachers.  But, I'm sure God kept re-assuring Jesus to wait.  Wait for the proper time to start so Jesus could call the apostles and build a strong ministry.

That's when I finally sat down and was like, "God, if it is in your will for me to continue working- may I get a better job.  If not, I will follow this camp idea for the summer."  And, that's where I am now- I think God answered my question by getting me this job out of the blue.

In the mean time, while I'm sure God will call me to do great things in His name in the future.  I need to focus on the present.

I am co-leading a small group this semester, I can become more involved in my church, and also become more involved in the Greenville community volunteering.

As well, maybe God wants me to serve Him here in Greenville in the meantime.

Patience is a virtue.  Patience has lead me to this prospective job, and I'm sure God will lead me to many great things in the time to come.  God's plan for me is already planned, as long as I stick to Him and desire to find His will.

Think about what you desire for to do God, is it practical today to drop everything like the apostles?

Do you truly hear God calling you to do what you desire, or is it just a desire of your heart?

What can you do today in the present in the meantime while waiting for God's calling?


Have a blessed day,
 <3 KM

The God of Creation and Nature

Spring Break finally came this week.  For the past few days, I have been experiencing rest and stress-free days.  I have been visiting Wilmington, Fort Macon, New Bern, and other towns around where I live- exploring what the NC coast has to offer.

However today, while studying for Anatomy and Physiology- I realized that with my time off, have I been spending my time wisely?

As well, have I been investing enough time for school work.  And, now that I think about it, have I been investing enough time for God?

It is so easy to forget spending time with the Father, Lord during times that are hectic and crazy.  But, forgetting to spend time with God when I have all the time in the world?

What I noticed I have been doing though is cherishing all the beauty God has given to the earth.  Me and my boyfriend have been going to beach almost everyday, just enjoying the waves and the sand under our feet.

  

Nehemiah 9:6  

"You alone are the LORD. You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you."

The past two days, we have been craving to wake up at 530 AM to see the sun rise, both of the times my fault for not going (I was tired).

Yet, just looking back the past couple of days- we truly have seen God's beauty in the sunsets over the beaches and a bright rainbow after light sprinkles.

 Genesis 9:12-13 - 

"And God said, "This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth."

Even though we may forget to read our Bible everyday, or fail to pray everynight- I'm sure God still makes His existence known through the changing weather and the Beauty of who He is every moment.

Colossians 1:16,17 

 "For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:  And he is before all things, and by him all things consist."

A New Perspective

The last post I made was about my boyfriend's fall.  Well, I think I have better insight on the matter now that it has been a couple of days. 

We found out that the doctor never gave him an MRI.  So, it's possible that surgery was never done correctly.  And what I have found to see is that maybe it is a good thing that he fell ice skating compared to rock climbing on a mountain.

The injuries could have been more severe, or even deadly.

I know this is kind of taboo to say, but maybe this is a blessing.  A blessing that could have prevented worse damage. 

The difference between us and God is that we are inferior, as hard as that may seem at times.  We are His Creation.  We did not create anything that you seen in this world.  If anything, we only molded and combined given matter. 

According to Sir Isaac Newton (at least I think it's his theory), matter can neither be created nor destroyed.

But, that's another idea.

I'm trying to get the point across that we need God.  He is our Father, and our Abba. 

Who else can we run to when no one else is there?

Who do we pray to when we feel pain in our lives?

Psalm 18:2 States:

"The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold."

God loves us, even though we feel like the entire world is against us.  Remember, God created the World.  And He will never turn His back on us, He is greater than this world.

Have a blessed day,

<3KM

Knocking at Doors

I am finding lately that I cannot force anything upon anyone.  The only people who force others to do what they want are dictators and control-freaks.  I am neither of those.  However, I am a girl who is selfish and likes to things to go her way.

The other night, I basically gave someone close to me two choices: my way or the high way.  Looking back, not only did I come across as selfish, but insensitive to the other person's emotions.  Last night, we talked through the emotions and came to the conclusion that you can't force someone to become something they're not, especially when you love who the person already is.

I now understand, as Christians most of us do this to non-believers.  We scare them away usually by trying to force a life-style, a life commitment, a personal relationship with the greatest being in existance.

The thing is, God does not force us to follow Him.  Who are we to force God's creation to follow Him, when God does not?  

God wants the love and desire to be with Him to be genuine.  By trying to force people into Christianity or even scaring them into religion, we not only hurt our relationship with the person.  But, also their relationship with God.

God is patient, God is kind.  He may not force His love, but He does make it quite clear that He does exist.  

Romans 1:20 states:

"For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, 

have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse." 

There is no excuse for not believing in any sort of God, in my opinion.  Even those who have never heard of Christ or our God believe in some sort of spiritual being/ creator.

In weird, crazy ways God makes it clear that He exists.  He does this through miracles and blessings, as well as being a comfort during dark times.

So, next time you are down.  Feel as if someone or many people you care about are not responding to the message of Christ you are giving them, maybe you should back off and pray.

Pray a lot. Pray for them. Love them! Not scare or force them.

Remember the acronym: Pray. Until. Something. Happens.

Something usually does happen, at least over time.

Trust me when I say, God is not just knocking on their door; He's banging on it.

Have a blessed day,
 <3KM

Puppies and Winnie the Pooh

At church this morning, the preacher back home gave a sermon on the birth of Jesus.  How Christmas is one of the most celebrated holidays, if not the most. 

He proceeded to give many examples that made you think.  On how to appreciate the simple things that Christ give us, whether it's health or joy.  As well as Salvation, I mind you.

The preacher told a story, how a boy had $2.37.  He came into a pet shop where he asked to see the puppies on sale.  The manager let the boy look at the five puppies, each of them $30 a piece.  However, there was a puppy lagging behind the rest- a sixth.  The boy looked at the puppy and said, "I want that one!"

The manager looked at the boy and said, "Why do you want that one?  It's lame! It's leg is messed up.  I'll let you have it for free!" 

The boy looked at the manager and said, "I don't want it for free!  He's worth as much as the rest! I'll give you all the change in my pocket ($2.37) and pay you 50 cents a month until he's paid off!"

The manager looked at him like how he was crazy.  The manager said, "Well, don't you want one that you can run with?  This dog is worthless and slow."

The boy replied, "Well I can't run that well either!"  The boy showed the manager his leg underneath his jeans, his leg was in a metal brace.  "That puppy deserves a home and someone to understand him.  Someone who he can relate with."

This story was in a Chicken Noodle for the Soul book, according to my preacher.

God's and Jesus' love for us is like the little boy.  Why would they be interested in sinful humans when they already have thousands of Angel's to glorify them?

God loved us so much, he sent his only begotten son to save us, to buy us.  Just not for $2.37, but with Jesus' life.   God is with us everyday at every moment, he relates with us and feels our pain, our joy, our restlessness, and when we are weak and lame.

Even though our sin has made our relationship with God impaired, He still sees the value in us.

The next example my preacher demonstrated is how Christians relate to the show "Winnie the Pooh."

Some Christians act like Eeyore, they view the negatives in life and see next day as worse.  They see the life God provided them a waste and without purpose. 

Some Christians are like Piglet, where they are afraid of everything.  They never trust God and become overwhelmed by everything that comes in sight.

Then there are Christians who are like Winnie the Pooh.  They are content with what they have, and are always looking for the sweet things (honey) in life.

Also, there are Christians like rabbit.  They are don't want to form a relationship with God, but do everything on their own and garden carrots.

Yet, there are Christians like Tigger.  They bounce around with energy and bring joy to everyone! 

I consider myself to be the most like Piglet. I worry about everything and easily become overwhelmed by everything that comes my way.


What this has to do with the birth of Christ is not many Christians are like Tigger.

Many Christians are afraid to speak with high energy and enthusiasm about the birth of Christ, including myself at times.

What makes Christmas a truly joyous holiday, in celebrating the birth of Christ, is that not only is it the beginning of new hope.  But, God profiled his promise in the Old Testament!

In Isaiah 6:9, the Bible states:

"For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder.  And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His Kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward, even forever.  The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this"

According to the Pastor at the church I attend at ECU, the New Testament compliments and adds to the Old Testament, not taking away from.

This goes to show, God always keeps His promises.  The Birth of Jesus is a celebration of a Profiled Promise and Hope!

Have a Merry Christmas!

<3 KM

Trusting in God, A Paramedic

Yesterday, my best friend and I were getting food in the dining hall around 12 PM, when she fainted.  I went with her to the hospital and spent five hours in a cold, tiny hospital room.  Luckily, my boyfriend and his roommate came by to entertain us with fake British accents and McDonald Hamburgers.  We later found out that she is anemic and her low iron levels is what made her faint.

But will I tell you, when she fainted and our friends huddled around her, there was this random girl who (honestly) annoyed me.  To illustrate, she kept going off: "I have diabetes- give her something to drink."  However, a paramedic that was on the phone said not to give friend anything, not even to eat or drink.

This random girl then said, "Well that's stupid- you're should still give her something."

Honestly, as much as I hate to admit it.

I act like this random girl sometimes.  Perhaps often.

Perhaps we all do.

God is an all-knowing being, kind of like a paramedic at times.  Yet, we act like this random girl and think we know everything.  When really we don't...at all.

We tend do what we want to do.  Not necessarily what God wants us to do.

In Judges 6, The story of Gideon is found.  

In 8-10, the Bible states: "He sent them a prophet, who said, "This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: I brought you up out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.  I rescued you from the hand of the Egyptians.  And I delivered you from the hand of all your oppressors; I drove them out before you and gave you their land.  I said to you, 'I am the Lord your God; do not worship the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you live.  but you have not listened to me."

Even after god rescued the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, proving how much he cares for them.  The Israelistes still went on to disobey Him, doing what they thought was best.  In a way, giving someone who fainted something to drink after being told not too (see the connection?).

However, has God's guidance ever steered anyone wrong?

Sure, at times it feels like the world is against us when we do make the right decisions.  However, God is always with us- being a Paramedic that knows the proper care for every situation, whether we faint while getting lunch or twist our ankle from walking down the stairs.

In 13-14, Judges 6 says: 

“Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but if the LORD is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our ancestors told us about when they said, ‘Did not the LORD bring us up out of Egypt?’ But now the LORD has abandoned us and given us into the hand of Midian.”  The LORD turned to him and said, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?”

I don't know about you, but I do question what the Lord tells me what to do sometimes.  Especially when they don't seem to make sense, at all.  So, what did I start to do for my best friend- I prayed. So did another friend.  And, so did another.  We prayed together.

Judges 6:15-18 continues on with:

"The Lord answered, "I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites, leaving none alive."

Gideon replied, "If now I have found favor in your eyes, give me a sign that it is really you talking to me.  Please do not go away until I come back and bring my offering and set it before you.  And the Lord said, "I will wait until you return."

Even in disparity the Lord is always with us.  In the end, God did as He promised and saved the Israelites, not just once, but twice.  As well, God has saved us through Jesus.

God was with my friend and while the solution seemed "stupid" (according to the random girl), if we were to do what she wanted: the results could have been worse.

Trust the paramedic, our God, Father, Abba- He won't let you down!

Have a blessed day,

<3 KM

God, Santa, and the Christmas Spirit

This year for Christmas, I made all the presents for my close friends.  I make gifts not just because I am a poor college student, but also because I feel these gifts are more special.  Not that buying gifts is wrong, I love receiving purchased clothes and gift cards (hint-hint Mom and Dad).

But, I give hand-crafted gifts because receiving a custom, unique gift that is one of a kind in the entire galaxy has a special effect on people.

Giving gifts and seeing how genuinely appreciative a person is, is rewarding itself.  In our culture, giving gifts is a custom that we do out of love and compassion.  We give gifts to make others happy.

Yet, how many times do we fail to acknowledge every day the best gift ever created by the Lord Himself?

I know that I personally fail to appreciate the ultimate gift every day; I commonly take for granted the Salvation promised through the Crucifixion of the Lord’s only Begotten Son.

We give Gifts in Honor of the greatest gift the World has ever received!

John 3:16 States: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life (NIV).”

The gift of Christ was given to us out of the Lord’s Love and His Compassion.  We know that we do not deserve such a wonderful gift.  Heck, if God was Santa- we would probably all receive coal for being on the Naughty List, all because of the sin we commit unintentionally on a daily basis.

However, God is not Santa. 

He is the God that loves us unconditionally, even though we don’t deserve it.

“This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.”

1 John 4:9-12

His Love surpasses all things.  He blessed us with His son because he wants us to be happy, and to spend all eternity with Him rejoicing in His Righteousness.

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away (NIV).”- Romans 21: 4

True, we can never love as much as God, or give the best gift ever (since it was already given).  

Gifts are more than physical items, gifts are small things of actions and spoken words through Love!

But, I challenge you- next time you give a gift, ponder the amount of joy the person will receive.

Next time you compliment someone, how much joy will they receive…will it come off as negative criticism?

When you refer to someone in a conversation, are you speaking harmful things that can cause emotional pain?

“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”

-John 3:18

God is Bus Driver

Today, while waiting for the bus- I missed it...twice.  The first time I was in the library, and the second time I was in the dining hall eating lunch.


While this is a fairly bad predicament, I did however realize how much a blessing God is to His children.


In a way, God is a bus driver that refuses to leave the bus stop until all the passengers get on board.


The Lord is patient and kind, He is in no rush to leave those who are lost and cannot find the bus stop.

2 Peter 3:9 states: 

"The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."

Or, maybe your a passenger who keeps getting off at the wrong stop.  God is a bus driver that will drop you off at the right stop- but only if you let Him.

"But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him."

-2 Corinthians 2:14

When you give God the control of the bus wheel, your destination- He will steer you in the right direction.


Have a blessed day,
<3 KM

Stress and Disorganization: Aye aye aye

It's the end of the semester for school, and you know what that means-Final Exams!!! And I'll tell you, I am disorganized as can be. 


I have to sign a lease for an apartment, take the NLN-PAX exam that determines if I get into Nursing School, and the grades I make this semester determine if I get into Nursing School or not.


We have all been to this place before, where we feel like one chore on top of another task keep coming our way.


And, what comes from all this?


Stress.


A five letter word that is a common thing in most people's lives. And from this, not only our desk- but our lives become disorganized.  


I have learned lately that the only way to treat stress, besides taking an Advil, is to turn it over to God.  


I actually never thought of this until yesterday, but even God requires order and organization!

In John 6, when Jesus and the apostles were feeding the 5,000 with fish and bread, you know what Jesus did? He told everyone to sit down, chill, and wait for their piece of bread.

"10. Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” There was plenty of grass in that place, and they sat down (about five thousand men were there). ¹¹ Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish."

-John 6: 10-11

I mean, if I had to feed 5,000 people- I would be too freaked out to think that the best way to feed them all is by creating some sort of order.

When you think about it, God truly is an organized God.

He created the earth one day at a time!  He created Night and Day, then the earth, then the sky and oceans, then the animals, then Adam and Eve, and on the last day He rested!

He established the Ten commandments to create order in the world.  Most view the Ten commandments as a rule book, but it is also guidelines to live a more organized  and structured life, to help limit the stress in our lives!

Yet, as we are humans, we live messy lives!

We sin, creating more mess in our lives.

We also refuse to turn our worries over to God, and limit His power.

In John 6, when Jesus asked Philip how they could feed the 5,000 people with 2 loaves of bread and a fish- Philip freaked out!

"Philip answered him, “It would take more than half a year’s wages to buy enough bread for each one to have a bite!”

Philip should have answered, "by your miraculous abilities, Lord!"  But, Philip was human, He was a Disciple as well, by golly!

It goes to show, even those with the greatest of faith's forget the ability of the Lord.

In response to this, I need to not limit the power of the Creator of all the Stars and Constellations, the God who crafted each animal individually in His liking, the Father that sacrificed His only begotten Son for the salvation of the human race!

That's pretty epic.  We have an Awesome God!

Who else can I trust with all the mess in my life?

The answer, is no one.

My advice is, next time you feel overwhelmed, have a stressful day, or just have a cluttered mind.

Turn it over to God!

Have a blessed day,

<3KM

Planting Seeds of Faith

November has been a crazy month so far.  I have putting more effort into my studies while at the same time trying to put forth more effort towards God and my relationships with those around me.  Last weekend, I came across how poor my relationships are with some people- how they are very shallow and haven't grown.

How do relationships grow?

I figured, they have not grown because I have not been watering the seed for the relationships to grow.  Especially being in college, balancing time is the hardest thing to do.  So, I try to plan lunches, brunches, and coffee with people- but that's expensive when you're on the 9-meal plan.

I now know that even though you can't spend the time like you want to, or should, with other people; especially when it feels like they don't want to be friends with you (that usually isn't the case).  All you can do is do your best!

Focus on the relationships that are the most important to you, and you will see bigger changes in those relationships- but do not get stuck in your bubble, be willing to expand your friendship circle one person at a time.

For instance, the Disciples hanged about with Jesus and each other for a while, but once they saw that all they could gain together was gone, they expanded and made more friends.  And, through the grace of God- they witnessed their testimony of how Amazing their Lord is, changing lives person by person, day by day.

According to a preacher I saw once, the message was- "God saved you to save another person."  You never know who you have helped saved, or have at least planted a seed.

That is the duty of a Christian.  To not only Praise God, but work through Him to plant, water, and sow seeds.

The person you witness to has a choice when you plant a seed: to slightly bury it, or cast it away.

You cannot just shove a seed into the person, it is their choice whether they want the seed or not.  Who knows, maybe they prefer another person's seed.

The only thing you can do, when a person rejects your seed, is to live a Godly lifestyle.  I do not mean floating around the world like some kind of pansy, showing off how cool you are like God.

But, I mean praying before dinner, not cussing, trying to be a good friend, and most importantly- showing love and compassion to a person, is a Godly lifestyle.  You may be the only Bible a person may ever read, is some wise words I heard before.

Especially in my group of friends, most of them are not Christian.  I believe God has placed me in their lives for a reason, maybe just to plant seeds, or to help sow, and reap the seeds as well.

I still want to express love and compassion to those who are not my closest friends, and sure the relationships with these people may not be as strong.  But, I'm sure everything will get better with these relationships.  One can only pray, and live the way Jesus would.

"He is like a tree planted by water, 
that sends out its roots by the stream, 
and does not fear when heat comes, 
for its leaves remain green,
and is not anxious in the year of drought,
for it does not cease to bear fruit.” 
Jeremiah 17: 8 

Have a blessed Thanks Giving,

<3 KM

Cookin' up time for Jesus

I have recently discovered that I have a peculiar, somewhat procrastination habit, to cook instead of doing homework or studying.

So far this week, I have made Vegan Banana Peanut Butter Bread, Vegetarian Pasta, Spinach Pizza Bagels, 2 batches of brownies, and Cookies.

Oh my goodness!

Fortunately, my fellow starving college student friends have been the ones consuming the food!  Though, one thing I tend to do is try to make the food as healthy as I can.

The picture that's up is Banana Peanut Butter Bread where I used flour, sugar, 2 banana's, vegetable oil, and lots of peanut butter.  I try to avoid using milk and eggs in the food I make, in case someone is lactose intolerant or for my vegan suite mate to try eating.

But what is the point of all this, besides the fact that I can cook well- it's that I realized God doesn't substitute anything in our lives.  I realized lately, from reading Crazy Love (an amazing book thus far), is that I try to substitute my love and praising of God with deeds.

I stick to my habit of never going out of my way to help others, to try to avoid embarrassment, and to be a disciple.  I'm not saying that I want to become one of "those" Christians.  The one's that try to force religion, trying to lead a horse to drink Holy Water that its not thirsty for.

So, what should I do?

I figure, make the Holy Water look more appetizing to the horses we gather.  Show them that the Holy Water is good for their thirst of water.

John 4: 13-14:

" Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again,

  but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. 

Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

Jesus offered His life to provide a Source of an UNLIMITED SUPPLY of Water!  I am learning that I need to start drinking this Holy Water more by reading my Bible more, praying for more than five minutes before I go to bed, and spending more time with my Heavenly Father, Creator, Abba.

If I can make time to cook all these delicious foods, imagine how delicious my relationship with God can become!  

I cannot cook my way up to Heaven, I cannot lead others to God by hiding around in the kitchen.  

Have a blessed Day

<3 KM

Obedience: Playing Chicken or Run like the Dickens

When I was younger, when my parents told me not to do something, I would do that something anyway- being the curious little kid I was.  The typical was: don't eat the cookies before dinner, go to bed before 9, and look both ways before crossing the road.  You know, the usual.

We are told as children to obey our parents, that our parents know best, and if we listen to them- our life will be a whole lot less crappy because you avoid punishment of time-out in the corner.

Well, God- He is our Holy Father and He has given us the Bible, word-breathed scripture, to obey Him and avoid the punishment from our sin.  Yet, lately I have been thinking- how far is too far to disobey Him.

As humans, we tend to play Chicken with our actions, seeing how far we can go before breaking.

Fortunately, I haven't done much Chickening- I've just been presented Chicken to tamper with.  This Chickening, Tampering, and Poking at situations that we know are bad are temptations.

As Christians, we still face temptations.  This is a fact of life.

However, we have two choices: tamper with temptation to become weak or say "no" to temptation to grow stronger spiritually. 

We are always told to follow our hearts, and how our heart feels is how we should feel.

But, God also gave us a brain.  A brain that is capable of understanding our actions, to plan our motives, and examine what is right or wrong.

Because, let's face it: our hearts are very convincing to do things we usually would not do.

Jeremiah 17:9 states:

"The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?"

I believe that is why our conscience is in are brains, our heart would leave us astray too easily. 

The point that I am trying to make in this post is that, as Children of God- we need to listen to Him!  No, none of are perfect.  But, by listening to our hearts and doing what we want to do- we are only setting ourselves up for temptation and sin. 

The Bible is not a rule-book, but the Bible is a guide to live a Holy and Pure life-style to make life easier.

The Bible is telling us not to touch the stove because we will burn are fingers in a simple touch.

If you find yourself caught in temptation, wanting to play "chicken" with the things going on in your life- Stop. Drop. And Pray.

1 Corinthians. 10:13:

"No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."

God can and will help you, if you allow Him too.

As well, any previous sin or temptation convicted has already been forgiven through Christ.

:)

Have a blessed day,

I hope this post provides some guidance to my fellow sisters in Christ.

<3 KM

Disney and Brick Walls

We are all familiar with the Little Mermaid, most likely Disney's Little Mermaid.  She was an outgoing mer-person who wanted to change her life and become human.  However, she did this the wrong way by trading her voice to an evil Sea Witch, when she only needed to confront her Father about the issue.

Why am I talking about the Little Mermaid? I have no idea, it just seems to fit what is on my mind currently. The topic being Change and Speaking out.  I guess the Princess Mulan would be a better fit?

Unless Mulan did not speak out about the Huns, her country would have been destroyed (I highly recommend watching this movie!).

But, anyway.

Change, unless you want change in your life you have to speak out.

This has been a very soul searching week, in which I am learning so much about myself that I the part I like to keep hidden keeps peeking over the walls I have up.  And, that's usually what we usually do: build a brick wall between ourselves and the people we should be close too.

Last night, I opened up to two people in my life.  One being someone I want to get closer too, the other I have been close too for the past couple months.  I admit it, I have trust issues.

But, it's not only trust issues with other people, but with God.  Which is silly, considering God has never let me down.  I guess, I am finding that with God- He is not human, He is a being so powerful, just and beautiful! God is perfect, what reason can I think of not to trust him?

Not trusting God, or those around you, just leads to a stagnant point in your relationships where there's nothing, but brick walls.  God knows everything about us, individually, down to how many neuron cells we have, the number of hairs on our head, the pulse of our heart, the thoughts we create every moment, even the speed of  the growth of our toe nails.

How can we NOT trust someone like that!

I pray that those who are going through the same obstacle realize, there is no reason not to trust God; the Creator of the Universe, the King of Kings, the Hope that has blessed us with Salvation!

As for the ones around you, take baby steps.  Remember, Relationships with fellow Christians is very important because these relationships are the Vertebral disks in The Spine of our Christianity (I'm a Nursing Major) that helps Straighten our Posture towards God!

As well, to change these or any other relationships that are stagnant- speak out! Pray to God, Worship his name in songs, and to Hear from Him try reading the Bible and look for the signs he gives us Daily!

It may not be sinning by holding in what needs to be said, but it does hurt your relationships with others more.  Whether removing one Brick at a Time of your Walls or Crashing it all down at once- I promise, you will feel so much better towards the end!

Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;

In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight. ” (NIV)

Have a blessed day,

<3KM

"Don't compromise yourself. You are all you've got."--Janis Joplin

"Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that...Don't compare yourself with others."- Galations 6:4

How often in life do we compare ourselves to others?  Whether the matter of subject is how attractive we are, how intelligent we are, or even how much of a better Christian others are?

That is how I have been feeling lately, for I fail to go to church every Sunday.  I fail to attend every social/ outreach event my fellowship has. And, I also fail to read my Bible everyday.

This idea that I am not profiling my duties as a Christian has consumed my life and  has became my goal by becoming a better Christian.  I mean, it's so easy to look at another person and envy whatever relationship they have with God.  I don't know about you, but I envy the Christians who are able to explain every detail about God from the top of their head or when they pray, it's poetry.

On the bright side, I can at least say I have been doing some things right such as living a Christian life-style pretty well by not cussing, being celibate, and praying every night before I go to bed.  The thing is- there is more to Christianity than living the life-style of one.  You also have to develop a relationship with God and grow with faith as you mature.

I would say that right now, my relationship with God is stagnant.

As a result, I am also consistently comparing myself to other Christians trying to learn from them how to grow in Christ. 

I guess, all I can do now is to talk to more mature Christians and follow by their example of how to grow.

As well, not be consumed by the idea that I am not good enough for God.  None us are!  Remember that there is nothing we can do to make God loves us less or more.  Yet, growing in Him is one of the most remarkable experiences that should be sought after.

" [Let's learn to be thankful for how God made us, in spite of our faults. The example of Paul the Apostle.] For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the Church of God. 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am: and His grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me."-
1 Corinthians 15: 9-10

Have a blessed day!

<3 KM

The Trinity in Ourselves

Yesterday, I was reading my Bible and came across the verse:
Mark 12:29-31
   29 “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

Verse 30 stood out the most to me, not that loving your neighbor isn't important.  However, I came up with a hypothesis about the Trinity and the possibility of a Trinity in ourselves.

In the Christianity perspective, the Trinity is God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit in which all one is a Supreme, powerful being.  I thought.  And well, I would like to think that Our Heart, Our Soul, and Our mind make up who we are as people in which combined forms a super power in way of Strength.  Maybe that's why the Trinity is made up of 3 separate beings that are actually one!

Think about it, God is the Mind that created us! He is the one that provides us Wisdom and Knowledge!  And, without a Brain (in other words, mind) we would not be able to live, nonetheless function.  I would like to think that the Holy Spirit is in us guiding our soul towards a sound relationship to share with God and others around us.  And last, but not least Jesus is the Heart in us, that relates Him to us physically and emotionally!  Providing the ultimate gift of Love and sacrifice that could ever be given with Salvation.

And, together- there is the strength of all three combined in us and in the Trinity of God. 

Like I mentioned previously, this is just a theory.

But, it certainly make me feel closer to God whether it is right or wrong.

This is the Trinity of Ourselves.

Hope and Blessings

Sometimes, well actually most of the time, when a challenge comes my way that I have to face, I cannot help but think to myself, "this is going to be a train wreck and I probably will die from it."  Yes, I can be a bit dramatic. But, I come to find that whether I quote that before a Chemistry exam or before I face a common day frustration, I usually take the death-march to where I need go and face the challenge.
  And, as you can see, I am still alive and able to write this blog post.  As humans, we have an urge and desire to succeed.  As a result, we tend to get nervous, receive butterflies in our stomach, and continue to succeed or fail the challenge presented before us by God.

What I tend to forget is that everything is okay, and everything will be okay.  I mean, God has never failed me.  He has certainly steered me away from disastrous situations (especially boys), and he has led to where I need to be, I believe. God has also led me through the storms that have came across my path.

For example, the past couple weeks I have been stressed with FASFA and wondering if I would be able to attend college or not this year.  Here's some advice: always apply FASFA early, or it will take forever to know your award.

Well, I only received a small loan and there was no way I would be able to afford college.  I just continued to constantly pray about the situation, and on July 30th I finally received notice that I earned a scholarship for Nursing again.  And trust me, I was screaming in the library with joy when I read the notice on the computer.

And now, everything is much more relaxed for me.  At least for now, I still have to worry about paying off a speeding ticket and books for my classes. Yet, I know I just have to remain hopeful and pray about the situation.

Jeremiah 29:11 states: "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Although I am still uncertain as to what God has in store for me, but I think He wants me to become a Nurse and do good for others, just like He has been good to me.

So, if you readers feel like tomorrow you are going to take a death-march attending your first day of school, a math test, or even work! I highly suggest praying about the issue!  God is in control, and he will never fail you!  Because, God is Love.  And Love never Fails. :)

A Love Worth Giving

1st Corinthians 1: 4-8 states: "⁴ Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. ⁵ It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. ⁶ Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. ⁷ It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.  ⁸ Love never fails..."  And, as Christians, we are supposed to follow this principle showing others God's Love.
 
Have you ever tried describing yourself with this verse? So it's: "Kendra is patient, Kendra is kind. She does not envy, she does not boast, she is not proud..." I have to stop there.  Describing myself in these terms is a total lie that I, nor anyone else, can live up to honestly.  That is,  everyone except Jesus.
 
"Jesus is patient, Jesus is kind.  He does not envy, he does not boast, he is not proud. Jesus does not dishonor others, Jesus is not self-seeking, Jesus is not easily angered, Jesus keeps no record of wrongs. Jesus does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. He always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Jesus never fails..."---Sounds true, doesn't it?
 
You have to understand that Jesus is Love, that's why the two go one in one.
 
Saying that I am any of these things 100% of the time is a complete lie.  Sure, I may be kind usually.  I may not envy too much, nor boast too much.  But saying that I'm patient is a complete joke, at stop lights- you bet I am impatient.
 
As Christians, we sure do want to say that we are all of these things, but we're not.  We're only human.  And Jesus was human, but He was also God.  "God is Love" (1 John 4:8), as well we are not Love 100% of the time.  I may be a Loving Person, but that is completely different than being the one syllable word Love. 
 
Most of the time we force Love that shouldn't be forced.  For instance, we have a troubled relationship with our spouse/boyfriend/girlfriend/parents/friends/strangers/brothers/sisters/etc., so we try harder.  "My friend needs my forgiveness? I don't know how, but I'm going to give it."  "I don't care how much it hurts, I'm gonna be nice to that snob across the room."  "I'm supposed to love my neighbor? Okay.  By golly, I will."
 
So we try to Love.  Teeth clenched. Jaw firm.  We're gonna Love if it kills us! And it may just do that.
 
But, the thing is- to Love someone, don't we have to experience Love?  That's where God settles in.  The secret to Loving is receiving.  "We love, because He first loved us" (1 John 4:19).
 
We may not be 100% Love, but we can try to still be Loving.  Begin by accepting your place as a dearly loved child.  "Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us" (Ephesians 5:1-2).
 
Want to learn to learn to forgive?  Then remember how you have been forgiven of your sins.  "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you" (Ephesians 4:32).
 
Having trouble to put others first?  Remember the way Christ put you first. "Though [Jesus] was God, He did not think of equality with God as something to cling to" (Philippians 2:6).
 
Especially in my case, needing more Patience? Drink from the patience of God.  "The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent" (2 Peter 3:9). 
 
And, are you having trouble being kind to snobs, ungrateful relatives, or cranky neighbors? God puts up with us when we act the same.  "He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked" (Luke 6:35).
 
Can't we Love like this?
 
Sure we can!
 
But, not without God's help we can't.
 
Have a great day!
 
<3KM
 
PS: This post was inspired by "A Love Worth Giving" By Max Lucado, which is an excellent book and Christian Author!

Extra Luggage: Empty Out the Socks and Shirts, Pack more Underwear

 

How many times do you over pack?  Whether you are going to your Grandma Mary's for Christmas, going camping with friends, or going to the beach?  Sure, you are prepared.  But, some items you bring with you are completely unnecessary and require extra hassle to luggage.

As humans, we certainly have extra baggage.  Baggage from past experience, relationships, and bonds that we bring with us wherever we go.  However, not all extra baggage is bad.

We need some extra sometimes to prepare us for where we go by using the wisdom that was learned.  However, there is a difference between carrying our past with us as a security blanket or extra luggage, and being prepared.  Through this concept, allow God to sift through your baggage. 

Allow Him to be like your mother that rummages your suitcase before you leave to camp, making sure you don't bring a rubber snake, but makes sure you have a tooth brush packed.  God will keep packed the very best of what you can use and take the burden of the unstable.

In Matthew 11: 28-30, the verse states:

²⁸ “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ³⁰ For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

 

So, any extra luggage you are carrying- turn it all over to God!  He will be able to make any problem lighter that it is.  For instance, I have been looking for a job since the end of the school year, and what I have been doing is turning the issue over to God.

I have looked for jobs practically everyday, while attending school from 8 AM to 6:30 PM.  The process I have been doing is maintaining my hopefulness of acquiring a job and praying that a job will happen.

Today, actually, I received an e-mail from one of the jobs I applied to a few weeks ago.  I will really hope and pray that I receive the job!  If I don't, it's not meant to be.  But, I have a hunch it's all according to God's purpose.

In the meantime, anyone reading this who is feeling like they are over packed, carrying extra socks full of sorrow or wrinkled shirts with stains of anger.  Allow God to urge you to pack Underwear full of hope and trust.  

Because, it's like my mother says:

"You can never carry enough Underwear."

 

Have a Blessed Father's Day!

<3 KM