tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497283404296263412024-03-13T03:18:36.569-04:00North Point Women's MinistryWomen of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comBlogger76125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-87174803304048569032018-04-30T09:35:00.006-04:002019-04-10T11:01:20.189-04:00<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Welcome to the blog for North Point Church women's ministry! We don't use this space much anymore, but you can find out all about our church and what the women are up to at this site, <a href="https://www.northpointchurch.net/">northpointchurch.net</a>. Any questions, contact Traci at traci_407@msn.com.</span></h2>
Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-2821335194131395742013-09-03T16:57:00.002-04:002013-09-03T16:57:56.657-04:00Mercies New Every Morning<br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I once heard the influence you have on your child is pretty much complete by age five. <i>Who would say such a cruel thing?</i> I remember the torture of forcing my little one to sleep through the night, uninterrupted, cold turkey. I think back on all the times I lost my patience with my toddler. These weren’t polite outbursts of “no.” These were foot-stomping, screaming tirades that I felt compelled to apologize for later. So these last five years, that is what I will hang my parenting hat on forevermore?</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">If so, I graduated from motherhood today. My little one went to Kindergarten. Five years old and out the door. For a week, we practiced going to bed earlier, setting an alarm and marking off our school morning to-dos on our homemade checklist. We had everything set out the night before. Textbook parenting stuff, because my parenting influence was coming to an end, right?! At 6:25 this morning I went in to wake her for probably the most important day of her young life so far.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">She awoke, sleepy-eyed and her first words to me, “Mom, can we pray?” The closest I’ve come to tears all day. If, in fact, my parenting influence is all wrapped up by age five, I have done well. Our heavenly Father most graciously has covered over my times of blatant imperfection and set up camp in her little heart. She has learned what I still have to remind myself, when I get nervous or scared or worried, pray.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">“<i>The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness</i>.” Lamentations 3:22-23 </span></div>
Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-32571654993750743422013-01-24T10:52:00.001-05:002013-01-24T10:52:24.495-05:00Lessons Learned In A Trial<br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">For six years, I went through a trial of sorts. What started out as “When will our house sell” became “What house will we buy” and now is concluding with “When will move into our new house?” Years ago, I asked Jesus Christ to be my Lord and Savior. He has been my Great Sustainer through these years of unknown and I am compelled to share five lessons He taught me through this time.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">1) Tr</span>ials come in all shapes and sizes. I know on the richter scale of trials, mine doesn’t rank up there with a terrible disease, financial trauma, etc. But it was mine. And trials can last for a short time or for years. Sometimes, the trial doesn’t resolve itself in this lifetime. God calls us to obedience. The first chapter of James talks about trials. God expects us to persevere regardless, knowing it must complete its work (James 1:4). We live in an age when it isn’t that big of a deal for someone to just give up. In MY case, God made it very clear that wasn’t His will.</div>
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2) The verse Philippians 4:12 reads, “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances,” and is quoted often for those going through a trial. There is a lot to unpack in that verse, so I have learned to use it with caution. But a book I read recently gave me the most helpful explanation. It doesn’t say we have to be content “with” the circumstances or “because” of them. The secret to contentment doesn’t have much to do with the circumstances at all. It has everything to do with your relationship with God. Get that relationship right, and you CAN learn to be content “whatever” the circumstance.</div>
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3) My attitude during this time came down ultimately to this: Do you trust God or not? My life verses are 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.” I have walked this Christian walk for a long time. God does allow times in my life where He wants me to trust Him, even with very little answers or direction. Trust Him. </div>
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4) When you find yourself in the midst of a trial, find a way to serve during it. A popular worship song by John Waller says, “While I’m waiting, I will worship.” I am currently women’s ministry coordinator at my local church. Ministering to these women through events, writing and speaking, leading Bible study, has really ministered to me. Many, many times I have been too busy doing Kingdom work to be concerned about my trial, over which I had little control. Consider your own situation. Who needs you? I promise you will get much more out of helping others than you will focusing on your own needs. And this serving is a wonderful offering of worship to our King.</div>
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5) I did not handle this trial with grace. I wish I could tell you I was a superstar who took the high road on every occasion and never whined or pouted. But I can’t. I did learn the importance of being real about your humanness, coveting the prayer of others and having daily time in God’s Word. Isaiah 40:31 states, “But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” I read a commentary explaining this verse that I fell in love with. When we trust in the Lord and rely on HIS strength, we will move forward in one of these ways... sometimes we will soar high, sometimes we will run and sometimes we will be able to do little more than walk. And any of the above is OK.</div>
Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-11678374490064810402012-10-31T10:49:00.004-04:002012-10-31T10:49:43.494-04:00A Holy Halloween<br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">When we had our daughter, our entire world changed. I know, duh, right?! In particular, we started looking at the holidays and traditions we had as a family. One by one, we put them under a Godly microscope. A few years back, our pastor preached on the traditions surrounding Christmas; Santa, Christmas trees, etc. It was very helpful in determining what pieces of that holiday would help us teach Allie about Jesus’ birth.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Halloween was not exempt as we examined our observance of it as well. I have read about this day’s history and encourage you to do so also. Parts of it hail from our forefathers in the Catholic Church, and parts of it are tied to the ancient pagan holiday of Samhain, where the people would host feasts to conjure up the dead and walk through two bonfires to cleanse themselves, etc. </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Initially, we decided we would not participate in the holiday at all. But God didn’t let it go there. Each year, I would hear from other believers who decided they could observe this holiday innocently... wholesome costumes and candy from area retailers, in family neighborhoods or from church “trunk or treat” events. And I was graced with a little girl that loves a good party! Already at four Halloween has become an obsession. The more we told her no, the more it grew in fascination for her. I began to fear that we were creating a Halloween “monster.” And for what?</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I will spare you the hours of conversations, prayers and research that have gone into my October 31st conclusions. I know that each year we will revisit this challenging holiday and I may read this article in five years and see it all completely differently. That is the beauty of God. He continues to disciple us through the Spirit. So, here are some Halloween Scriptural treats, from me to you:</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Psalm 118:24 reads, </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i>“This is the day that the Lord has made; I will rejoice and be glad in it.”</i> </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">October 31st, every year, is a day God made. It is the day Martin Luther nailed his “95 Theses” to the church doors, starting a reformation revolution. It is Hallow’s Eve, a time of celebration leading up to All Saint’s Day and All Soul’s Day. So, why am I trying to avoid it? Initially, we had decided to make it a fun day home from school for Allie. We were planning hayrides and pumpkin carving and lots of baking. But really all she heard at the age of four was “no trick or treating and no dressing up and no fun with your friends.” I have no problem telling her no, but again God was working in my Spirit, no for what?</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">So, my thought process continued. If I was going to let her celebrate Halloween, what did that look like? The holiday seems to be about two things to me, in its raw innocence... dressing up and getting loads of candy. Not factors worth celebrating for me, even if you do it “for the kids.” The next part of this story is cool. If you seek answers, God will provide them in His time. A friend of mine from back home posted an article from <i>Christianity Today </i>entitled “Matters of Opinion: Hallowing Halloween;</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Why Christians Should Embrace the Devilish Holiday with Gusto - and Laughter.” This article provided a missing link for me. Matthew 5:13-16 reads, </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i>“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt should lose its taste, how can it be made salty? It’s no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled on by men. You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”</i></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I had not factored these well-known verses into my Halloween considerations at all. And it changed a lot of things for me. What if we took Halloween back and made it the Christian holiday it can be? Churches, instead of just a “trunk or treat” alternative, what if we find ways to teach about the saints of our faith, we share scripture about the God who made this day and every other, you get the idea. Trick or treaters, what if your costume actually represented a saint from the past (what a conversation starter), what if instead of focusing on how much candy a kid can get, we honed in on how our child could bless the giver? My wheels are turning, let me tell you!</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">For this year, we are joining in the fun. A portion of John 16:16 reads, </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i>“I appointed you that you should go out and produce fruit </i></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i>and that your fruit should remain...”</i></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Our daughter plans to dress up like a princess, which she does pretty much every day of the year. I am reminded that our bodies are temples (1 Corinthians 6:19) so the costume should be conservative and appropriate; and any amount of candy received will be distributed sparingly by this Mama, who takes her responsibility very seriously. We are joining up with friends from church and giving away our own treats; card with a scripture verse on it that she’ll hopefully memorize and also to remind others of Psalm 34:8a, </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i> </i>Candy is good food but also <i>“Taste and see that the Lord is good...”</i></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">And overall regarding Halloween, we will continue to prayerfully seek the right way to celebrate for our family. I want Allie to know about its Christian roots because they are interesting and important. Every year, we will evaluate the best way to participate in the party. When I ask our daughter why we celebrate Halloween I want her to be able to give an answer that is pleasing to God. We plan to keep the celebration going for a couple days (because historically they did too). Tomorrow we will honor the saints that have gone before us (Read Revelation 6:9-11 for a reminder of how precious they are to God). The following day we will learn about All Souls’ Day, which historically in Europe served as a version of our Memorial Day.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Halloween, I’ve got my spiritual eye on you. Making the holiday safe and innocent isn’t enough. Colossians 3:23 reads, </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i>“Whatever you do, do it enthusiastically as something </i></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i>done for the Lord and not for men.” </i></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I want to enthusiastically make Halloween something done for the Lord.<i> </i></span></div>
Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-5500083531787695082012-10-24T09:51:00.000-04:002012-10-24T09:52:33.770-04:00Sharing Advent With Your ChildrenThis is coming to you early, a post about the Advent season leading up to Christmas. But, I figure it gives you time to plan. When we decided to teach our daughter the Christmas story through the days of Advent, I looked around for a simple, daily devotional booklet that would allow us to celebrate a piece of the story each day leading up to Jesus' birthday celebration on Christmas. I couldn't find anything for what I had in mind. So, I wrote one... and now I pass it along to you. Let me know if you have any questions.<br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i>Prepared by: Traci Rhoades</i></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 1 - Mary lived in the town of Nazareth. An angel named Gabriel came to her and said, “Good news! You’re going to have a baby.” (Luke 1:26-28)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 2 - Mary and Joseph planned to get married. Joseph knew Mary shouldn’t have a baby yet and he was hurt and angry. While he slept, he saw an angel in a dream who told him it was OK to get married because Mary’s baby was the Son of God - Jesus. (Matt. 1:20-21)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 3 - Mary had a relative named Elizabeth, who found out she was going to have a baby too. Jesus would have a cousin named John! Mary went to visit Elizabeth in a town located in the hill country of Judea. (Luke 1:13, 36, 39)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 4 - When Mary arrived at the home of Zechariah and Elizabeth, the baby in Elizabeth’s belly leaped insider her and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. “Mary! You carry the Son of God,” Elizabeth said. (Luke 1:40-44)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 5 - After Mary’s visit to Elizabeth, Mary went back to Nazareth and she and Joseph prepared to someday be married! (Luke 2:5)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 6 - Joseph and Mary learned that a ruler named Caesar wanted to count all the people in the land. This meant they would have to go to Bethlehem, the original town of Joseph’s family. (Luke 2:1)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 7 - So Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem, which was very far from their town of Nazareth. They couldn’t ride in a car like we do because there were no cars yet. They probably rode on a donkey and it was a journey of many days. (Luke 2:4)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 8 - After their long journey, they arrived in Bethlehem. But guess what?! They couldn’t find anywhere to stay! Time and again, they heard, “Sorry, no room in the inn. You can’t stay here; we’re full.” What were they going to do? (Luke 2:7)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 9 - One innkeeper was kind enough to let Mary and Joseph stay in his stable. So, they made a bed among the donkeys, cows and sheep. (Luke 2:7)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 10 - Once they got settled in to the stable, Mary realized she was getting ready to have the baby Jesus - among the donkeys, cows and sheep! And there was no one around to help them. (Luke 2:6)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 11 - Today’s story is the best part! Mary did have her baby that night, on Christmas. Baby Jesus!! Joseph helped her and they wrapped the Baby in swaddling clothes and laid Him in a manger. (Luke 2:7)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 12 - The shepherds were watching sheep nearby. That very night, some angels came to them. It scared them a little! (Luke 2:8-9)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 13 - An angel said to the shepherds, “Do not be afraid! Today a Savior is born, Christ the Lord.” He was joined by a whole choir of angels who sang, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace to men.” (Luke 2:10-14)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 14 - The shepherds obeyed the angels and went to Bethlehem looking for Jesus. Upon their arrival, it was just as they were told. They got to meet Baby Jesus - the very first visitors. (Luke 2:15-16)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 15 - After the shepherds left, the Bible tells us Mary remembered everything that happened that night. And she pondered the events in her heart as very special. (Luke 2:19)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 16 - After 40 days, the time needed for Mary to heal and feel better after having a baby, Mary and Joseph took Baby Jesus to church, or the temple, in Jerusalem. (Luke 2:22)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 17 - The first person that saw Baby Jesus at the temple was Simeon. He’d been told by God that although he was very old, he’d get to meet the Messiah. He took one look at Jesus, kissed His face and said, “Thank you God! This is our Messiah.” (Luke 2:25-35)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 18 - The next person to notice Jesus at the temple was a widow named Anna. She immediately knew Baby Jesus was the Messiah, who would save us. She thanked God for Him. (Luke 2:36-38)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 19 - Joseph and Mary brought Baby Jesus home from the temple in Jerusalem and they kept their little boy safe from King Herod and other enemies. King Herod would not like that there was now a “King of the Jews.” (Matt. 2:3,9)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 20 - The night Jesus was born, some Wise Men from the East took notice of a star. They knew this star meant the King of the Jews had been born. So they set off on a long journey to find Him. (Matt. 2:2)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 21 - Before the Wise Men made it to Jesus, they were called before the mean King Herod. He wanted to know all about the King Child they were looking to find. (Matt. 2:7-8)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 22 - Finally, after many months, the Wise Men arrived at the house where Jesus was staying. They worshiped Him and presented gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. (Matt. 2:11)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 23 - Then, being warned in a dream that King Herod really wanted to hurt Jesus, the Wise Men went back home a different way. (Matt. 2:12)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 24 - With God’s help, Joseph and Mary did keep Jesus safe. He grew to be a man, our Savior sent from God. Because of Jesus, the sinful, bad things we do don’t have to keep us from God. That’s why Jesus’ birthday is the best birthday of all! (John 3:16, Romans 6:23)</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Day 25 - MERRY CHRISTMAS! <i>Celebrate by opening the final Advent door and singing Happy Birthday to Jesus.</i> </b></span></div>
Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-91572491771502458442011-08-22T08:29:00.000-04:002011-08-22T08:29:50.621-04:00Tests Produce Perseverance<i><b>3</b> Because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. <b>4</b> Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.</i> James 1:3-4<br />
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These verses are translated using a few different English words that result as our faith is tested; perseverance, endurance, patience. Do you look at trials in your life as a test? That can seem cruel, can't it? We can think, "God is not convinced I really love Him or that I am truly serving Him so He tests me." But if you look closely, that is not what these verses say. Verse three tells us simply that our faith will be tested. And that testing will produce perseverance or endurance or patience. <br />
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Breaking it down, I see a couple key points of comfort in these verses. First of all, testing will come. We are not given a reason why, just an assurance that trials and tests will come. Maybe God allows these trials because He knows we'll be the better for it. Maybe He loves that after we come through a trial, we can minister in a more compassionate way to others that struggle as we have. When we are new Christians, we walk with a wobbly faith. But as you see God at work, as you see how He works in the trials, your faith grows. There are many ways our faith grows as we mature in Christ, but this is a big way.<br />
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Secondly, verse four in this passage starts with the word, "let." Huge word so don't miss it. So much of our Christian walk is our choice. Yes, Christ chose us. But our free will as humans allows us to choose or reject His ways time and time again. And we are promised, if we "let" perseverance finish its work (that's <i>start</i> to <i>finish</i>), we will be mature, complete, not lacking anything. That is starting to sound more and more like Jesus, isn't it?<br />
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Tests and trials are not the fun times, but as our faith in God is produced, through these very tests and trials, we can more and more trust that God is at work and He who started a good work in us will carry it on to completion (Philippians 1:6).<br />
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Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-5197137406469831812011-08-15T08:40:00.003-04:002011-08-15T08:44:24.028-04:00Radical Gospel<i>"One of the signs that you may not grasp the unique, radical nature of the gospel is that you are certain that you do."</i> -Tim Keller<br />
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Do you feel this way about your faith sometimes? For me, I start to think I have down all the rules I'm supposed to follow (oh, how my heart is programmed for legalism) and then the Holy Spirit steps in to show me I am not caring for those I ought. Or He reminds me gently of all the ways I don't even get all the rules right. A question I pose to myself: "Who am I friends with because Jesus would be, not because I would be?" It's a good gauge of how much you are choosing to walk like Christ. True Christianity, when we walk in it, leaves us clueless about what the next step is, unaware of what the plans of our days actually hold and constantly struggling to be OK with uncomfortable. That's unique, that's radical.<br />
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Our Father, in all His wisdom, provided us with a way to live with this kind of uncertainty. He sent us the Holy Spirit to live inside of us; that too, is radical! According to the passage below found in John, this Helper speaks to us of what the Father would have us to do. He will guide us into all truth <i>one step at a time.</i> So, we don't need to know and follow a bunch of rules or be certain of what our future holds. All we really need to know is Jesus. Pray that the Holy Spirit will reveal Him to you more and more.<br />
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<i>13When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on His own but will tell you what He has heard. He will tell you about the future. 14 He will bring me glory by telling you whatever He receives from Me. 15 All that belongs to the Father is mine; this is why I said, ‘The Spirit will tell you whatever He receives from Me.’</i> John 16:13-15 (NLT)Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-79258548396712825902011-07-11T15:02:00.000-04:002011-07-11T15:02:12.545-04:00One of Christianity's Little Secrets"We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should plese his neighbor for his good, to build him up. <i>Romans 15:1-2</i><br />
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It was a month ago when these verses first came screaming up at me from the Holy Pages. I was on vacation, spending time with my younger brother, a true prodigal returned to his Father. His "weaknesses" are a strong part of his amazing testimony. He counts on his brothers and sisters in Christ to help him deal with these weaknesses (every day) and to remind him that we serve a God who knows him completely and loves him. <br />
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The HCSB translation tells us we "have an obligation to bear" with these weaknesses found in others. Furthermore, the Greek word for "weak" in this verse is used only one time in the New Testament. Right here. It's not the same word used in Romans 14:1 to describe one without strength, one who is made weak. It describes a person whose weakness is an impossible thing. A weakness they can do nothing about. Not a popular thought in our "I can do" society. But that's how it reads.<br />
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The call to action in these verses is one of Christianity's little secrets. We are instructed to "bear" with these weaknesses. Action verb. It will rip you from your comfort zone, convict you of your judgmental spirit, force you to give up your leisure time to get your hands dirty and it's our obligation.<br />
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The good news, the solution, to these impossible weaknesses are unfixable by human standards. But in Mark 10:27, Jesus tells us, "...With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God."<br />
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Yesterday, the pastor spoke on these verses again (isn't that just how God works?) and it was an uncomfortable, convicting sermon. Christianity is not the easy road. If I had learned Romans 15:1-2 before I'd learned John 3:16 I would have perhaps given more thought to what I was getting myself into. But through God, through Whom all things are possible, we can put aside our selfish ambitions. We can consider others, in this case those who have impossible weaknesses. Bear with the weaknesses and build the individual up. For as we read all throughout scripture, that's exactly what God, through Christ, has done for us.Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-3467461159805436632011-05-10T11:36:00.001-04:002011-05-10T11:37:22.540-04:00Superstar ChristiansWe can't all be superstar Christians (OK, we truly are in God's eyes but that's not the topic of this particular devotion). My daily Bible reading this morning was John 14. In this chapter, we hear from three of Jesus' disciples. Not Peter, superstar who Christ used to build the church; and not James, author of a book in the Bible. The three we hear from were Thomas (John 14:5), Philip (John 14:8) and Judas (not Iscariot) (John 14:22). Each one had walked side by side with Jesus, but still had questions. Things they didn't understand.<br />
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It raised a question in my mind. Did these three disciples with questions, one of which is even known as "doubting Thomas," still do great things for the Kingdom? Once the Holy Spirit came to dwell in them, did they have an effective ministry? So I looked up their stories to find the answer.<br />
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<i>Thomas</i> - "Tradition says he labored in Parthia, Persia and India. It is said that [Thomas] was commissioned to build a palace for the king of India, and he was killed with a spear as a martyr for his Lord."<br />
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<i>Philip</i> - "If this Philip is the same Philip [mentioned in Acts 6:5, 8:26 and 21:8], he was one of the major figures in the missionary enterprise of the early church. This simple Galilean gave all he had. It is said that he died by hanging. While he was dying, he requested that his body be wrapped not in linen but in papyrus for he was not worthy that even his dead body should be treated as the body of Jesus had been treated."<br />
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<i>Judas</i> "It is said that Jude went to preach the gospel in Edessa near the Euphrates River. There he healed many and many believed in the name of the Master. Jude went from there to preach the Gospel in other places. He was killed with arrows at Ararat."<br />
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<i>* Quoted material found at http://www.swartzentrover.com/cotor/bible/Bible/NT/12Apostles.html</i><br />
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The lesson learned from these disciples of lesser notoriety is to not get caught up in being a superstar Christian. Think of some wonderful, strong believers whom you know personally. The quiet spirit they have as they serve their Lord. It's not about grand works or a name to be remembered for generations to come. And note that He can work in people among even doubts and questions. Once these disciples believed in Jesus and His mission, the Holy Spirit worked in them to do mighty things. Kingdom work. He who began a good work within you promises to do the same in your life (Philippians 1:6).Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-51618395602057950392011-04-19T09:14:00.000-04:002011-04-19T09:14:02.811-04:00A Walk Through Holy WeekI've heard from some that it seems harder to get into the spirit of Easter than it does Christmas. I can relate to this. One of the most impacting Easters in recent memory was when I had prepared myself by going through a daily reading of Holy Week in a coffee table book by Max Lucado. It spoke to my heart each day and educated me as well. I found this walk through "Holy Week" online and thought it might help all of us get into the Spirit.<br />
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"Palm Sunday: This is the last Sunday of Lent and the first day of the Holy Week. This is the day when Jesus rode triumphantly into Jerusalem where he was welcomed with open arms. It is also the basis for the Palm Sunday processions.<br />
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The Holy Monday & Tuesday: The cleansing of the temple at Jerusalem supposedly took place on Holy Monday. It is also the day when Jesus reprimanded the moneychangers. The Holy Tuesday is the day when the famous incident between Jesus and Pharisees supposedly took place where an attempt was made to get Jesus to commit blasphemy. <br />
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Spy Wednesday: This is the day when Judas Iscariot, a disciple of Jesus who betrayed him told the chief priests where they could find Jesus. <br />
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Maundy Thursday: This is the day of the last supper before crucifixion. <br />
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Good Friday: The day when Jesus was crucified outside the walls of Jerusalem, at the top of Calvary hill. This day is marked by solemn thoughts, fasting and abstinence to commemorate the pain and suffering of Jesus.<br />
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Easter Eve: This is the Holy Saturday and Easter Eve. It is a traditional time for baptism.<br />
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Easter Sunday: Finally the day of resurrection and the big feast. Jesus is said to have risen from the dead after crucifixion. He also joined his disciples for a meal and told them to carry on his works in his absence."<br />
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For this excerpt and more information on the history of Easter can be found at: http://www.historyofeaster.info/Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-69965520890644198702011-03-29T18:20:00.002-04:002018-04-30T09:31:49.969-04:00Undignified by David Crowder BandI've posted this video so you can go into your room, watch it in the privacy of your home, and D-A-N-C-E for your Lord. Get your undignified on girl! <br />
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www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQeNVXY6ZIcWomen of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-42205607407333208462011-03-23T20:38:00.001-04:002018-04-30T09:31:49.940-04:00Passover Seder Scripture ReadingThis Friday, some women from our church will gather to learn more about the Passover Seder. In preparation for this event, attendees have been asked to read Exodus 12:1-30 to become more familiar with this traditional meal. I ask that you also turn your heart to the New Testament reading of our Lord's Last Supper. How beautiful to think that the meal we'll learn about on Friday is the very meal Jesus sat down to with His beloved disciples. He is our Passover Lamb.<br />
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<b>The Last Supper</b><br />
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<b>17</b> On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Where do you want us to prepare the Passover meal for you?” <b>18</b> “As you go into the city,” he told them, “you will see a certain man. Tell him, ‘The Teacher says: My time has come, and I will eat the Passover meal with my disciples at your house.’” <b>19</b> So the disciples did as Jesus told them and prepared the Passover meal there. <b>20</b> When it was evening, Jesus sat down at the table[a] with the twelve disciples. <b>21</b> While they were eating, he said, “I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me.” <b>22</b> Greatly distressed, each one asked in turn, “Am I the one, Lord?” <b> 23</b> He replied, “One of you who has just eaten from this bowl with me will betray me. <b>24</b> For the Son of Man must die, as the Scriptures declared long ago. But how terrible it will be for the one who betrays him. It would be far better for that man if he had never been born!” <b> 25</b> Judas, the one who would betray him, also asked, “Rabbi, am I the one?” And Jesus told him, “You have said it.” <b>26</b> As they were eating, Jesus took some bread and blessed it. Then he broke it in pieces and gave it to the disciples, saying, “Take this and eat it, for this is my body.” <b> 27</b> And he took a cup of wine and gave thanks to God for it. He gave it to them and said, “Each of you drink from it, <b>28</b> for this is my blood, which confirms the covenant[c] between God and his people. It is poured out as a sacrifice to forgive the sins of many. <b>29</b> Mark my words—I will not drink wine again until the day I drink it new with you in my Father’s Kingdom.”<br />
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Matthew 26:17-29 (New Living Translation)Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-73912485955198569392011-02-25T08:50:00.000-05:002018-04-30T09:31:49.975-04:00Passover Seder at the Home of Katrina PelfreyHello North Point Ladies!<br />
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Please join me, Katrina Pelfrey,in a Passover Seder at my home (3120 West C Ave) on Friday, March 25, from 7-9pm. <br />
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What is Passover?! I asked the same question about 12 years ago when we were invited to our first Passover meal!<br />
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I learned that the Passover was the last meal Jesus shared with his disciples, and it is considered one of the most important of all the feasts. The Seder is a series of readings and eating of different foods that remind us of the bondage the Israelites endured under Egyptian rule. It is a reminder also, of the miracles God performed as he delivered the Israelites from oppression and slavery.<br />
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As Christians, we have the opportunity to see Christ in every aspect of the Passover celebration- He is our deliverer from the bondage of sin and death. He is our Passover Lamb!<br />
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My family has enjoyed celebrating Passover for many years and I'd love to share this tradition with you.<br />
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<i>Please RSVP Katrina Pelfrey at 216-4125 or dkpelfrey@juno.com by Friday, March 18th. I can only seat 25 comfortably in my home for this meal, so please RSVP soon if you know you'd like to attend.</i><br />
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*The seder will include matzoh crackers, grape juice, fruit, cheese and a special dessert.Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-22256439295844416502011-02-22T10:21:00.002-05:002018-04-30T09:31:49.921-04:00Becoming a Woman of ExcellenceA woman of excellence<br />
Is what I long to be<br />
Filled with your godly wisdom<br />
So it is part of me<br />
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A woman of integrity<br />
No matter what I face<br />
Standing up for righteousness<br />
And for your saving grace<br />
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A woman of destiny<br />
Living out your plan<br />
Knowing where you’d have me walk<br />
Being guided by your hand<br />
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A woman of promise<br />
Standing on your word<br />
Holding on to all the truths<br />
While carrying out your work<br />
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A woman of compassion<br />
For the ones in the dark<br />
Those that do not know your love<br />
And have darkness in their hearts<br />
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A woman that will never<br />
Compromise the faith<br />
With what the world may offer<br />
But will keep the narrow way<br />
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A woman who loves Jesus<br />
And will only follow Him<br />
Gladly to give up the world<br />
So His light can shine within<br />
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Lord this is my earnest prayer<br />
As a daughter by your grace<br />
Grow in me these qualities<br />
As I walk with you in faith<br />
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© By M.S.Lowndes<br />
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from: http://www.heavensinspirations.com/a-woman-of-excellence.htmlWomen of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-49956199564592780952011-02-10T09:55:00.000-05:002011-02-10T09:55:49.897-05:00Faith ChallengedWe are blessed to have some new Christians in our Bible study. These beautiful women don't even have much familiarity with church or the Bible. This is foreign to me and, can I be honest, I am intimidated. I love my Jesus. Just His name brings tears to my eyes and joy to my heart. I want to serve Him well by teaching these women how to baby step their way into the open arms of our Savior. I don't want to teach them about church rules or religious history. Like John in his gospel, I only want to testify concerning Him [Jesus] (John 1:15).<br />
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They ask some good questions. Ones I don't have answers to. They admit being scared of giving wrong answers and saying wrong things. Well, back at ya' girls! I pray the Holy Spirit will teach them, through our little group of women gathering for Bible study, that "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." (Philippians 1:6). He knows our hearts and looks right past our awkward, stumbling acts of faith. He just wants us to love and obey Him.<br />
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I'm thankful God gave us these new sisters in Christ. They inspire and challenge me. My faith needs that. So does yours. Has God placed people in your life that challenge your faith? Are you intimidated by conversations you have with other Christians? James reminds us, "In the same way, faith by itself, if not accompanied by action, is dead." (James 2:17) My faith hits the pavement every Wednesday. It's scary but it's active. I pray the same for each of you.Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-90836931041674448352011-01-14T14:58:00.002-05:002011-01-14T15:02:18.280-05:00Our Personal TestimoniesThese past few weeks our Bible study has been sharing testimonies. Each is unique, as you can imagine. I keep fondly remembering the story of one lady in particular. Almost from the first sentence, her voice shook with great emotion. Her story has decades in it without knowing her Savior. While she was a good person, there were hurts from this time that Jesus continues to heal. She is reaching a greater understanding of how sometimes this world hurts us and it's not our fault. <br />
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She thinks her testimony falls short because it's not what she considers "common Christian." To me, the grace that God shows in placing the right people in her path, in drawing not just her but a larger extended family to Him, the hunger and appreciation she now experiences... it's a perfect picture of despondence to devotion. Common or not.<br />
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Much like the scripture passage found below. Do you remember the sinful woman that poured alabaster oil on Jesus' feet? Read the story. And, to Christians old and new alike, soak in the closing words from our Savior, "<i>Your faith has saved you; go in peace."</i><br />
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<b>36</b> One of the Pharisees asked him to eat with him, and he went into the Pharisee's house and took his place at the table. <b>37</b> And behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she learned that he was reclining at table in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster flask of ointment, <b>38</b> and standing behind him at his feet, weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears and wiped them with the hair of her head and kissed his feet and anointed them with the ointment. <b>39</b> Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, for she is a sinner.” <b>40</b> And Jesus answering said to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” And he answered, “Say it, Teacher.”<br />
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<b>41</b> “A certain moneylender had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. <b>42</b> When they could not pay, he cancelled the debt of both. Now which of them will love him more?” <b>43</b> Simon answered, “The one, I suppose, for whom he cancelled the larger debt.” And he said to him, “You have judged rightly.” <b>44</b> Then turning toward the woman he said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. <b>45</b> You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not ceased to kiss my feet. <b>46</b> You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment. <b>47</b> Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.” <b>48</b> And he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” <b>49</b> Then those who were at table with him began to say among [1] themselves, “Who is this, who even forgives sins?” <b>50</b> And he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”<br />
<i>Luke 7:36-50</i> (ESV)Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-805142928787897062010-12-30T19:26:00.000-05:002018-04-30T09:31:49.985-04:00A New Year's Poem for ChristiansInstead of making a New Year's resolution <br />
Consider committing to a biblical solution <br />
Your promises are easily broken <br />
Empty words, though earnestly spoken <br />
But God's Word transforms the soul <br />
By His Holy Spirit making you whole <br />
As you spend time alone with Him <br />
He will change you from within <br />
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-- Mary Fairchild <br />
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<i>http://christianity.about.com/od/holidaytips/qt/newyearpoem.htm</i><br />
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What a great reminder to us that His yoke is easy and His burden light.Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-63781903632244294202010-12-09T16:00:00.002-05:002010-12-09T16:01:42.785-05:00Consider the Shepherds<i>Read this secular description of shepherds historically, as found at www.wikipedia.org</i>:<br />
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"Shepherding is one of the oldest occupations, beginning some 6,000 years ago in Asia Minor. Sheep were kept for their milk, meat and especially their wool. Over the next millennia sheep and shepherding spread throughout Eurasia.<br />
Some sheep were integrated in the family farm along with other animals such as chickens and pigs. To maintain a large flock, however, the sheep must be able to move from pasture to pasture; this required the development of an occupation separate from that of the farmer. The duty of shepherds was to keep their flock intact and protect it from wolves and other predators. The shepherd was also to supervise the migration of the flock and ensured they made it to market areas in time for shearing. In ancient times shepherds also commonly milked their sheep, and made cheese from this milk; only some shepherds still do this today.<br />
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"In many societies shepherds were an important part of the economy. Unlike farmers, shepherds were often wage earners, being paid to watch the sheep of others. Shepherds also lived apart from society, being largely nomadic. It was mainly a job of solitary males without children, and new shepherds thus needed to be recruited externally. Shepherds were most often the younger sons of farming peasants who did not inherit any land. Still in other societies, each family would have a family member to shepherd its flock, often a child, youth or an elder who couldn't help much with harder work; these shepherds were fully integrated in society.<br />
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"Shepherds would normally work in groups either looking after one large flock, or each bringing their own and merging their responsibilities. They would live in small cabins, often shared with their sheep and would buy food from local communities. Less often shepherds lived in covered wagons that traveled with their flocks.<br />
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"Shepherding developed only in certain areas. In the lowlands and river valleys, it was far more efficient to grow grain and cereals than to allow sheep to graze, thus the raising of sheep was confined to rugged and mountainous areas. In pre-modern times shepherding was thus centered on regions such as the Middle East, Greece, the Pyrenees, the Carpathian Mountains, and Scotland."<br />
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Now, reflect on such shepherds being chosen to be the first people to greet our Savior, Jesus. Wow!<br />
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<b>8</b> That night some shepherds were in the fields outside the village, guarding their flocks of sheep. <b>9</b> Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord's glory surrounded them. They were terribly frightened, <b>10</b> but the angel reassured them. "Don't be afraid!" he said. "I bring you good news of great joy for everyone! <b>11</b> The Savior -- yes, the Messiah, the Lord -- has been born tonight in Bethlehem, the city of David! <b>12</b> And this is how you will recognize him: You will find a baby lying in a manger, wrapped snugly in strips of cloth!" <b>13</b> Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others -- the armies of heaven -- praising God: <b>14</b> "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to all whom God favors. " <b>15</b> When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, "Come on, let's go to Bethlehem! Let's see this wonderful thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." <b>16</b> They ran to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger. <b>17</b> Then the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. <b>18</b> All who heard the shepherds' story were astonished, <b>19</b> but Mary quietly treasured these things in her heart and thought about them often. <b>20</b> The shepherds went back to their fields and flocks, glorifying and praising God for what the angels had told them, and because they had seen the child, just as the angel had said. <i>Luke 2:8-20 (NLT)</i>Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-90706032829091546422010-12-01T13:48:00.003-05:002010-12-01T13:49:27.304-05:00Mary Had Parents and Other Amazing Discoveries<b>36</b> There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, <b>37</b> and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. <b>38</b> Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. <i>Luke 2:36-38 (NIV)</i><br />
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“The Gospels do not name the parents of Mary. But tradition says that her parents’ names were Anne and Joachim.” <i>The Little Blue Book: Advent and Christmas Seasons 2010-201</i>1<br />
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I find it so exciting to uncover new facts about people in the Bible. Mary had parents... with names! Their names are not mentioned in the Bible but discovering what was likely their names just makes them more human to me. Every Bible character was real. Like you. Like me.<br />
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After reading about Mary’s parents, my mind made a connection. In Luke, we read of the prophetess Anna, who got to meet baby Jesus on His first trip to the temple. Perhaps Mary felt an extra special connection to this woman because her name was so very close to the name of Mary’s own mother. Mary was, after all, still quite young and had just endured a very controversial pregnancy. Then, she’d traveled to a strange town and delivered a baby in a stable! God may have known she needed a special comfort right about that time. The Bible tells us that Mary pondered in her heart the unique occurrences that happened with her firstborn son. I would have loved reflecting on the fact that one of the very first people to give thanks for my son in the temple... shared a name so similar to my Mama!<br />
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As you read the Christmas story this season, look for your own nuggets of new discovery. We’re all quite familiar with the story, but its appearance in God’s Holy Word makes it living and breathing scripture (II Timothy 3:16). A story capable of touching you in new ways. A story that can change you every time.Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-46405144072830973402010-11-19T09:14:00.000-05:002010-11-19T09:14:35.186-05:00A Lesson on Just As I AmPray that God will prepare your heart for a teaching from Him tomorrow. He doesn't want us the way we think we should be... He wants us as we are.<br />
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<b>10</b> "Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a dishonest tax collector. <b>11</b> The proud Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: 'I thank you, God, that I am not a sinner like everyone else, especially like that tax collector over there! For I never cheat, I don't sin, I don't commit adultery, <b>12 </b>I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income.' <b>13</b> "But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, 'O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.' <b>14</b> I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For the proud will be humbled, but the humble will be honored." <br />
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Luke 18:10-14 (NLT)Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-28462846846659454382010-09-15T14:15:00.003-04:002010-09-15T14:16:28.784-04:00Why Go To Church?A churchgoer wrote a letter to the editor of the newspaper and complained that it made no sense to go to church every Sunday. "I've gone for 30 years now," he wrote, "and in that time I have heard something like 3,000 sermons. But for the life of me I can't remember a single one of them. So I think I'm wasting my time and the pastors are wasting theirs by giving sermons at all."<br />
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This started a real controversy in the "Letters to the Editor" column, much to the delight of the editor. It went on for weeks until someone wrote this clincher:<br />
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"I've been married for 30 years now. In that time my wife has cooked some 32,000 meals. But for the life of me, I cannot recall the entire menu for a single one of those meals. But I do know this: They all nourished me and gave me the strength I needed to do my work. If my wife had not given me those meals, I would be physically dead today. Likewise, if I had not gone to church for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead today!"<br />
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Author UnknownWomen of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-91095432883540625752010-08-22T08:47:00.001-04:002010-08-22T08:48:05.950-04:00Poem of Our Father's Great GivingPoem by Annie Johnson Flint<br />
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He giveth more grace when the burdens grow greater,<br />
He sendeth more strength when the labors increase;<br />
To added affliction He addeth His mercies,<br />
To multiplied trials His multipled peace.<br />
When we have exhausted our store of endurance,<br />
When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,<br />
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources<br />
Our Father's full giving is only begun.<br />
His love has no limit, His grace has no measure,<br />
His power no boundary known unto men;<br />
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus<br />
He giveth and giveth and giveth again.Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-61038958932508391492010-08-19T14:32:00.002-04:002010-08-19T14:34:48.257-04:00Back to School<em>It's in the air... almost daily different Facebook friends are sending their little ones to school. Enjoy this tribute to the new school year!</em><br /><br /><strong>The First Day of School </strong> <br />By Judith Viorst<br /><br />Will they let me go when I need to go to the bathroom?<br />And what if I get lost on my way back to class?<br />And what if the other kids are a hundred, a thousand, times smarter than I am?<br />And what if we have a spelling test, or a reading test, or an...anything test, and I'm the only person who doesn't pass?<br />And what if my teacher decides she doesn't like me?<br />And what if, all of a sudden a tooth gets loose?<br />And what if I can't find lunch, or I sit on my lunch, or I (oops!) drop my lunch someplace like the toilet?<br />Will they let me starve or will somebody lend me a sandwich?<br />A cookie? A cracker? An apple? Some juice?<br />And what if they say, "Do this," and I don't understand them?<br />And what if there's teams and nobody picks me to play?<br />And what if I took off my sneakers, and also my socks, and my jeans, and my sweatshirt and T-shirt,<br />And started the first day of school on the second day?Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-18497477554185904332010-08-14T19:11:00.003-04:002010-08-14T19:20:08.858-04:00Dancing Undignified by Traci Rhoades<span style="font-style:italic;">14 And David danced before the LORD with all his might, wearing a priestly tunic. 15 So David and all Israel brought up the Ark of the LORD with much shouting and blowing of trumpets. 16 But as the Ark of the LORD entered the City of David, Michal, the daughter of Saul, looked down from her window. When she saw King David leaping and dancing before the LORD, she was filled with contempt for him. 17 The Ark of the LORD was placed inside the special tent that David had prepared for it. And David sacrificed burnt offerings and peace offerings to the LORD. 18 When he had finished, David blessed the people in the name of the LORD Almighty. 19 Then he gave a gift of food to every man and woman in Israel: a loaf of bread, a cake of dates, and a cake of raisins. Then everyone went home. 20 When David returned home to bless his family, Michal came out to meet him and said in disgust, "How glorious the king of Israel looked today! He exposed himself to the servant girls like any indecent person might do!" 21 David retorted to Michal, "I was dancing before the LORD, who chose me above your father and his family! He appointed me as the leader of Israel, the people of the LORD. So I am willing to act like a fool in order to show my joy in the LORD. 22 Yes, and I am willing to look even more foolish than this, but I will be held in honor by the girls of whom you have spoken!"</span> 2 Samuel 6:14-22<br /><br />God called David a man after God's own heart. While far from perfect, God knew David was chasing Him... hard. Dancing with all his might, giving gifts of food to every man and woman in Israel. Does He cite the same spirit in you? I can't help but think of this scripture passage when I sing worship songs on Sunday morning. And the lyrics from "Undignified" by the David Crowder Band, "But I'll become even more undignified than this; leave my pride by my side...." I'm not worshiping or giving like that... yet. But by the grace of God I am seeking more of Him. I am dancing like a crazy woman in my heart of hearts. Won't you join me? And someday, someday, may we break it down just for Him, an audience of One! Enjoy your time of worship tomorrow.Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-649728340429626341.post-30180724964431417292010-08-08T07:53:00.003-04:002010-08-08T08:10:03.956-04:00Let's All Be Sisterchicks!I admit I was a skeptic. The Sisterchick series by Robin Jones Gunn seemed a bit too - well- girly for me. But they seemed good summer beach reading, so I started with two gals that journeyed to Europe. These books left me so pleasantly surprised that as I prepare to read #7, off to London, I am asking myself if she would please come out with another.<br /><br />Then I realized, I am surrounded by Sisterchicks! Christian women at North Point who want to have fun, grow in faith and find ways to show one another, "Hey, your life matters!" Let's be Sisterchicks together, ladies! We may not be headed out on the trip of a lifetime to Italy, New Zealand or Mexico (yet). But with God in charge, we will have quite the trip together. He promises.Women of North Point Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13323092301840568438noreply@blogger.com