My Identity in Christ
Matthew 5:13 I am the salt of the earth.
Matthew 5:14 I am the light of the world.
John 1:12 I am a child of God
John 15:15 I am part of the true vine, a channel (branch) of Christ's life.
John 15:15 I am Christ's friend.
John 15:16 I am chosen and appointed by Christ to bear His fruit.
Romans 8:14,15 I am a joint-heir with Christ, sharing His inheritance with Him.
I Corinthians 3:16 I am a temple of God. His Spirit dwells in me.
I Corinthians 12:27 I am a member (part) of Christ's body
2 Corinthians 5:17 I am a new creation.
2 Corinthians 5:18,19 I am reconciled to God and am a minister of reconciliation...
Ephesians 1:1 I am a saint.
Ephesians 1:3 I am blessed with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places.
Ephesians 1:11 I am sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit who has been given as a pledge of my inheritance.
Ephesians 2:10 I am God's workmanship created in Christ to do His work that He planned beforehand that I should do.
Ephesians 4:24 I am righteous and holy.
Showing posts with label tea devotion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tea devotion. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Christmas
http://powertochange.com/blogposts/2011/12/03/what-is-happening-to-christmas/
A devotional I thought was good to read over a cup of tea and as we go about getting ready for Christmas.
Blessings!
A devotional I thought was good to read over a cup of tea and as we go about getting ready for Christmas.
Blessings!Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Faith is not Blind
John 20:29
Jesus said, "So, you believe because you've seen with your own eyes. Even better blessings are in store for those who believe without seeing."
Many people seem inclined to consider faith a more or less blind system of belief while others just can't quite fall for it. It seems to hard to do, blindly believing without any evidence. The Danish philosopher Kierkegaard referred to the need for a "leap of faith" to enter into a realm of spirituality.
But thinking that faith is a hard, complicated concept that must be blindly accepted is faulty thinking, because viewing faith as "blind" totally misses the scriptural teaching of what faith is. When the Bible describes blindness, it is an image representing people who have chosen sin as a way of living. They walk in darkness . The plan of God is to call people out of the darkness. Faith cannot be blind, because faith is authored by he who leads us to the light.
The word faith means "trust." To trust God is not an act of blind, unreasonable belief, because God proves himself to be utterly trustworthy at all times. Christianity is not based on myths or made-up stories. It is based on the testimony of those who witnessed jaw-dropping evidence that God sent His Son Jesus, to this earth. Our faith is not blind. It is based on facts we can trust, facts that inspire faith. Marilyn Meberg(God at your Wits End)
Jesus said, "So, you believe because you've seen with your own eyes. Even better blessings are in store for those who believe without seeing."
Many people seem inclined to consider faith a more or less blind system of belief while others just can't quite fall for it. It seems to hard to do, blindly believing without any evidence. The Danish philosopher Kierkegaard referred to the need for a "leap of faith" to enter into a realm of spirituality.
But thinking that faith is a hard, complicated concept that must be blindly accepted is faulty thinking, because viewing faith as "blind" totally misses the scriptural teaching of what faith is. When the Bible describes blindness, it is an image representing people who have chosen sin as a way of living. They walk in darkness . The plan of God is to call people out of the darkness. Faith cannot be blind, because faith is authored by he who leads us to the light.
The word faith means "trust." To trust God is not an act of blind, unreasonable belief, because God proves himself to be utterly trustworthy at all times. Christianity is not based on myths or made-up stories. It is based on the testimony of those who witnessed jaw-dropping evidence that God sent His Son Jesus, to this earth. Our faith is not blind. It is based on facts we can trust, facts that inspire faith. Marilyn Meberg(God at your Wits End)
Monday, September 5, 2011
http://soulsistertime.blogspot.com/2011/09/purpose-of-suffering.html?spref=tw
Such a great reminder regarding suffering. Enjoy with a cup of tea.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Start of my day today
http://powertochange.com/blogs/experience/devotionalforwomen/
God is so amazing and His timing is perfect. As I began my day today He showed me again His presence and His work in my life. I struggle with oldest being gone this summer and away this summer in Grand Tetons. It is hard to let God and let God do things in my life sometimes. I read much last night late in to the evening of His love and care for us and still my worries. He comforted me as I spent time there last night after spending time with some great friends and hearing Ray Charles daughter's praises to the Lord , her testimony and love for the Lord. It was at a local church and it was an amazing time spent. I am so thankful for God being in my life and showing me each day His love. He is an amazing God to know and if you don't know Him I pray you will. It is worth every minute of your life. I did not know Him and gave my life to Him a few years ago. I am not perfect by any means but I love my heavenly Father and thank Him for all His work He has done in my life and see the work He does in others. I have such a passion for learning more and more each day . As some of you know I would love to have a tea retreat place and share more of God's word. If God's will I know it will happen. God bless your day and pray you will share a cup of tea with Him and take some time to be with Him today.
God is so amazing and His timing is perfect. As I began my day today He showed me again His presence and His work in my life. I struggle with oldest being gone this summer and away this summer in Grand Tetons. It is hard to let God and let God do things in my life sometimes. I read much last night late in to the evening of His love and care for us and still my worries. He comforted me as I spent time there last night after spending time with some great friends and hearing Ray Charles daughter's praises to the Lord , her testimony and love for the Lord. It was at a local church and it was an amazing time spent. I am so thankful for God being in my life and showing me each day His love. He is an amazing God to know and if you don't know Him I pray you will. It is worth every minute of your life. I did not know Him and gave my life to Him a few years ago. I am not perfect by any means but I love my heavenly Father and thank Him for all His work He has done in my life and see the work He does in others. I have such a passion for learning more and more each day . As some of you know I would love to have a tea retreat place and share more of God's word. If God's will I know it will happen. God bless your day and pray you will share a cup of tea with Him and take some time to be with Him today.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Christ is Risen
Enjoy some tea with your family Easter Sunday and celebrate His Life!
I wanted to share some things that God showed me on my birthday this last Sunday. We have our home for sale and he brought a possible buyer or one that has a bit of interest. He had our neighbor , who is a realtor, bring the prospective buyer. I also believe, as we were at our neighbor's waiting for them to be done, I saw 3 people looking at home and my neighbors only saw two. I believe there was an angel at our home during this time. Also, as we were at our neighbors my friend told me about the message they heard at their church and all she could think of was me. You see, my friend and I had a bit of disagreement a few months ago I have such a desire to live for Him, share tea with others,have a retreat like home in TExas, and bring others together and share His word. I talk about that alot and at the time she had enough about that. AFter she heard the message on Sunday about how our desires if are from God we need to act upon them. Have faith. We need to listen to the desires of one's heart. It was such a blessing to have received that message on my birthday from a friend who I treasure. Our hearts were mended on that day and it was a wonderful moment., She even liked the tea I brought to share as she is not much of tea drinker but this herbal tea she liked!
God blessed me on my birthday by bringing an angel to our home, mending a friendship and enjoying some tea with my friend and I getting to hear that message on ITunes.
I pray that you will hear His word when He speaks to you and you will do what God has called you to do if it is His will. I pray that you have the faith and trust in the one and only true God. He is an awesome God! Thank you God for what you do in each of our lives and pray we will see those moments as you work in our lives.
Enjoy your cup of tea and His Word!
I wanted to share some things that God showed me on my birthday this last Sunday. We have our home for sale and he brought a possible buyer or one that has a bit of interest. He had our neighbor , who is a realtor, bring the prospective buyer. I also believe, as we were at our neighbor's waiting for them to be done, I saw 3 people looking at home and my neighbors only saw two. I believe there was an angel at our home during this time. Also, as we were at our neighbors my friend told me about the message they heard at their church and all she could think of was me. You see, my friend and I had a bit of disagreement a few months ago I have such a desire to live for Him, share tea with others,have a retreat like home in TExas, and bring others together and share His word. I talk about that alot and at the time she had enough about that. AFter she heard the message on Sunday about how our desires if are from God we need to act upon them. Have faith. We need to listen to the desires of one's heart. It was such a blessing to have received that message on my birthday from a friend who I treasure. Our hearts were mended on that day and it was a wonderful moment., She even liked the tea I brought to share as she is not much of tea drinker but this herbal tea she liked!
God blessed me on my birthday by bringing an angel to our home, mending a friendship and enjoying some tea with my friend and I getting to hear that message on ITunes.
I pray that you will hear His word when He speaks to you and you will do what God has called you to do if it is His will. I pray that you have the faith and trust in the one and only true God. He is an awesome God! Thank you God for what you do in each of our lives and pray we will see those moments as you work in our lives.
Enjoy your cup of tea and His Word!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Tea Time for your soul by Deborah Newman
Don't Cheat Your Soul!
You cheat your soul any time you read the Bible and close it without making a personal connection to God. I do it regularly, yet my soul knows what is missing. Some souls have never felt the real power of the Word of God. John 1:1-5 describes the effect the Word is meant to have on a soul:
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
The Word of God is given to be that powerful to our souls. When your soul connects to the Word, your soul connects to God. The Word is so powerful it made all things. The Word has life and light that darkness cannot overcome. When your soul reads the Word, it stays with you. It transforms you in miraculous ways that you don't recognize at first.
I'm not saying it is easy to have this experience every time you read the Bible. I'm saying it is possible. It’s not easy because you have to have an open heart, mind and spirit. Opening your heart, mind and spirit threatens your flesh. The more comfortable you are in your flesh, the more likely you will be to cheat your soul when you read the Bible.
When you first start reading the Word, it might seem dull and hard to understand. Your flesh will let you do it out of duty. If you open up the Word asking God to speak personally into your soul, you need to think deeply about what you read to get what God is saying to you. It might help to identify what your soul is hungry for from the Word. Perhaps you are on the brink of hopelessness about ever being loved the way you long to be loved. Let your soul sense what you need. Then open the Word and expect God to speak to your need.
I enjoy the practice of Lectio Divina. Daily, I listen for a word or phrase and keep that word with me for the day. It helps me feel connected to God and know that He has a purpose for my life. Sometimes that purpose is to share the word or phrase God gave me that morning with whom I am in contact.
Just this week a heavy winter rain turned to a beautiful snow in Dallas. My word for that day came from Psalm 51:2a, Wash away my iniquities; All day long I enjoyed the transition as the rain washed dirt way and the snow made it beautifully white and cleaner than clean.
Souls are nourished through the living word of God. Let your soul lead you to have the experience I am talking about. Many years ago I started reading a short portion of Scripture every day and calling it devotion time. When I first started, it was somewhat of a duty. Now, I wouldn't leave the house without my word for the day!
Copyright © 2011. Deborah R. Newman. All Rights Reserved.
You cheat your soul any time you read the Bible and close it without making a personal connection to God. I do it regularly, yet my soul knows what is missing. Some souls have never felt the real power of the Word of God. John 1:1-5 describes the effect the Word is meant to have on a soul:
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
The Word of God is given to be that powerful to our souls. When your soul connects to the Word, your soul connects to God. The Word is so powerful it made all things. The Word has life and light that darkness cannot overcome. When your soul reads the Word, it stays with you. It transforms you in miraculous ways that you don't recognize at first.
I'm not saying it is easy to have this experience every time you read the Bible. I'm saying it is possible. It’s not easy because you have to have an open heart, mind and spirit. Opening your heart, mind and spirit threatens your flesh. The more comfortable you are in your flesh, the more likely you will be to cheat your soul when you read the Bible.
When you first start reading the Word, it might seem dull and hard to understand. Your flesh will let you do it out of duty. If you open up the Word asking God to speak personally into your soul, you need to think deeply about what you read to get what God is saying to you. It might help to identify what your soul is hungry for from the Word. Perhaps you are on the brink of hopelessness about ever being loved the way you long to be loved. Let your soul sense what you need. Then open the Word and expect God to speak to your need.
I enjoy the practice of Lectio Divina. Daily, I listen for a word or phrase and keep that word with me for the day. It helps me feel connected to God and know that He has a purpose for my life. Sometimes that purpose is to share the word or phrase God gave me that morning with whom I am in contact.
Just this week a heavy winter rain turned to a beautiful snow in Dallas. My word for that day came from Psalm 51:2a, Wash away my iniquities; All day long I enjoyed the transition as the rain washed dirt way and the snow made it beautifully white and cleaner than clean.
Souls are nourished through the living word of God. Let your soul lead you to have the experience I am talking about. Many years ago I started reading a short portion of Scripture every day and calling it devotion time. When I first started, it was somewhat of a duty. Now, I wouldn't leave the house without my word for the day!
Copyright © 2011. Deborah R. Newman. All Rights Reserved.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Tea devotion
It is God who is at work in you, enabling you both to will and to work for his good pleasure. Phil. 2:13
If the whole point of our lives is to become more like Christ and be a conduit for the love of God, then we will each be given different paths to take- which may or may not correlate to our prayers. Some paths seem more attractive than others, but no one really knows the burdens another carries. What I am convinced of is that God loves his children. I don't know why he answers one person's prayers one way and another person's differently, only that he has a reason for it.
One of the ways we can measure whether we are at peace in the love of God is by asking ourselves whether we are able to celebrate Christ shining through another's life- whether we can recognize God's wisdom as he lovingly hand packes each life himself. Because only when we can do that when we can accept his hand working differently in your life as opposed to mine, answering each prayer in his own time and understanding can we truly be at peace with God. Believing that God is not listening to us dampens our relationship with him. But taking joy in living out his plan for us- that's freeing! Sheila Walsh
Enjoy His word today, think about somebody that you can pray for today and enjoy your tea!
If the whole point of our lives is to become more like Christ and be a conduit for the love of God, then we will each be given different paths to take- which may or may not correlate to our prayers. Some paths seem more attractive than others, but no one really knows the burdens another carries. What I am convinced of is that God loves his children. I don't know why he answers one person's prayers one way and another person's differently, only that he has a reason for it.
One of the ways we can measure whether we are at peace in the love of God is by asking ourselves whether we are able to celebrate Christ shining through another's life- whether we can recognize God's wisdom as he lovingly hand packes each life himself. Because only when we can do that when we can accept his hand working differently in your life as opposed to mine, answering each prayer in his own time and understanding can we truly be at peace with God. Believing that God is not listening to us dampens our relationship with him. But taking joy in living out his plan for us- that's freeing! Sheila Walsh
Enjoy His word today, think about somebody that you can pray for today and enjoy your tea!
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Power of God
Your life can be a living testimony of the power of God; you can be an encouragement and inspire someone else as they run their race. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus and the finish line ahead.
Thomas Edison performed more than 2000 experiments before he perfected a working lightbulb. Your success may be a 2000 step process. That is a quote by Thomas Edison.
Success is the progressive realization of your goals. Claim what God has already done in your life as you walk the pathway still ahead.
Wirte a prayer of praise and thanksgiving to God for all He has done in your life as well as all He will be doing in the future.
Enjoy that cup of tea today. Thankfulness tea.
Thomas Edison performed more than 2000 experiments before he perfected a working lightbulb. Your success may be a 2000 step process. That is a quote by Thomas Edison.
Success is the progressive realization of your goals. Claim what God has already done in your life as you walk the pathway still ahead.
Wirte a prayer of praise and thanksgiving to God for all He has done in your life as well as all He will be doing in the future.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Tea and Gratitude
The act of taking tea invites us to a more profund awareness of what is beautiful and meaningful. We are able to notice delicious details like the hand-painted trim on an antique china cup, the melt-in-your mouth texture of a fresh blueberry scone (I will add this in for my bias is Tealightful Treasures Scones), and the scent of a hyacinth blossom in the centerpiece. One sip from a hot cup of tea and our hearts are filled with thanksgivng for the gifts in our daily lives-from friendships to blessings to trials.
Take a seat, slowly pour another cup of tea, and take in the aroma and the warmth of the amber liquid. Enjoy the pleasure of a life steeped in gratitude.
Take a seat, slowly pour another cup of tea, and take in the aroma and the warmth of the amber liquid. Enjoy the pleasure of a life steeped in gratitude.
Forgiving
Three of the most encourageing words you can offer a friend are "I forgive you." Catherine E Roillins
Nehemiah 9:17 You are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love.
Message for this morning. Enjoy your cup of tea!
Traveling Tea with Jesus
Nehemiah 9:17 You are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love.
Message for this morning. Enjoy your cup of tea!
Traveling Tea with Jesus
Friday, October 29, 2010
Uniquely His
I wanted to share this devotion with you as know God was speaking to me as we just had a conversation regarding moving, new people, introducing yourself to others you may not know a couple of days ago and God brought this devotion before me. He is such an awesome God and great to hear from Him and know He wants to be present in your life.
Sip a cup of tea and enjoy His word today.
http://powertochange.com/blogposts/2010/10/29/uniquely-his/
Have a Tealighful day!
Cindy
Sip a cup of tea and enjoy His word today.
http://powertochange.com/blogposts/2010/10/29/uniquely-his/
Have a Tealighful day!
Where is Jesus?
October 29
Do You See Him?
Luke 24:16
The disciples ought to have known Jesus; they had heard His voice so often and gazed upon that marred face so frequently that it is incredible they did not discover Him. Yet is it not also with you? You have not seen Jesus lately. You have been to His table, and yet you have not met Him there. You are in a dark trouble this evening, and though He plainly says, "It is I, do not be afraid," yet you cannot discern Him. Sadly, our eyes are kept from seeing Him. We know His voice, we have looked into His face, we have leaned our head upon His shoulder, and yet, though Christ is very near us, we are saying, "I wish I knew where I could find Him!"
We should know Jesus, for we have the Scriptures to reflect His image, and yet how possible it is for us to open that precious book and have no glimpse of our loving Lord! Dear child of God, are you in that state? Jesus feeds among the lilies of the Word, and you walk among those lilies, and yet you do not behold Him. He is accustomed to walking through the glades of Scripture and communing with His people, as the Father did with Adam in the cool of the day, and yet you are in the garden of Scripture but cannot see Him, although He is always there.
And why do we not see Him? This must be ascribed in our case, as in the disciples', to unbelief. They evidently did not expect to see Jesus, and therefore they did not know Him. To a great extent in spiritual things we get what we expect from the Lord. Only faith can bring us to see Jesus. Make it your prayer, "Lord, open my eyes, that I may see my Savior present with me." It is a blessed thing to want to see Him; but it is far better to gaze upon Him. To those who seek Him He is kind; but to those who find Him, He is dear beyond expression!
Family Bible reading plan
Hosea 2
Psalms 119:97-120
Previous Next Subscribe»
Truth For Life Daily
Devotional material is taken from “Morning and Evening,” written by C.H. Spurgeon, revised and updated by Alistair Begg. Copyright (c) 2003, Good News Publishers and used by Truth For Life with written permission. Today’s Bible Reading material is taken from McCheyne Bible reading plan and used by Truth For Life with permission. Scripture quotations are taken from Holy Bible: English Standard Version, copyright (c) 2001, Good News Publishers.
Do You See Him?
Luke 24:16
The disciples ought to have known Jesus; they had heard His voice so often and gazed upon that marred face so frequently that it is incredible they did not discover Him. Yet is it not also with you? You have not seen Jesus lately. You have been to His table, and yet you have not met Him there. You are in a dark trouble this evening, and though He plainly says, "It is I, do not be afraid," yet you cannot discern Him. Sadly, our eyes are kept from seeing Him. We know His voice, we have looked into His face, we have leaned our head upon His shoulder, and yet, though Christ is very near us, we are saying, "I wish I knew where I could find Him!"
We should know Jesus, for we have the Scriptures to reflect His image, and yet how possible it is for us to open that precious book and have no glimpse of our loving Lord! Dear child of God, are you in that state? Jesus feeds among the lilies of the Word, and you walk among those lilies, and yet you do not behold Him. He is accustomed to walking through the glades of Scripture and communing with His people, as the Father did with Adam in the cool of the day, and yet you are in the garden of Scripture but cannot see Him, although He is always there.
And why do we not see Him? This must be ascribed in our case, as in the disciples', to unbelief. They evidently did not expect to see Jesus, and therefore they did not know Him. To a great extent in spiritual things we get what we expect from the Lord. Only faith can bring us to see Jesus. Make it your prayer, "Lord, open my eyes, that I may see my Savior present with me." It is a blessed thing to want to see Him; but it is far better to gaze upon Him. To those who seek Him He is kind; but to those who find Him, He is dear beyond expression!
Family Bible reading plan
Hosea 2
Psalms 119:97-120
Previous Next Subscribe»
Truth For Life Daily
Devotional material is taken from “Morning and Evening,” written by C.H. Spurgeon, revised and updated by Alistair Begg. Copyright (c) 2003, Good News Publishers and used by Truth For Life with written permission. Today’s Bible Reading material is taken from McCheyne Bible reading plan and used by Truth For Life with permission. Scripture quotations are taken from Holy Bible: English Standard Version, copyright (c) 2001, Good News Publishers.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
My week of blessings
I feel I have not been here for a few days and miss posting. It has been quite a busy week. We had power out at our home from this past Tuesday until late Wednesday night due to high winds. During this time God showed me many blessings. He showed me that He is right where we are in difficult times. He is there with us even in the not so difficult times. I am happy to know that and hope you do too. Sometimes not so easy to see at the time. He has blessed me with many friends who will pray for you when you come before them and ask. Such a blessing that is.
God brought before me two more teas to do when we are in Texas over Thanksgiving week. I am thankful and blessed to be able to share tea, devotion and tea bingo with these two groups. Now, I think I am full and so grateful that I am going to meet some more wonderful people in Texas. I am very excited and now will be praying for these groups in the next few weeks that God will be with us as we share with others about how special they are in God's eye. I look forward to sharing some wonderful tea with them and have fun playing tea bingo! I will also share the benefits of drinking tea.
I pray that you will see God's hand in each one of your lives. I pray that you will know God is working in your life and that it may not be right away you will see what He is doing but you will see in His time. Pray that you will have the patience as sometimes hard to do but know God is working. He is right beside you.
Have a tealightfully day. Enjoy the message God sends your way today with a cup of tea!
More to come ......
God brought before me two more teas to do when we are in Texas over Thanksgiving week. I am thankful and blessed to be able to share tea, devotion and tea bingo with these two groups. Now, I think I am full and so grateful that I am going to meet some more wonderful people in Texas. I am very excited and now will be praying for these groups in the next few weeks that God will be with us as we share with others about how special they are in God's eye. I look forward to sharing some wonderful tea with them and have fun playing tea bingo! I will also share the benefits of drinking tea.
I pray that you will see God's hand in each one of your lives. I pray that you will know God is working in your life and that it may not be right away you will see what He is doing but you will see in His time. Pray that you will have the patience as sometimes hard to do but know God is working. He is right beside you.
Have a tealightfully day. Enjoy the message God sends your way today with a cup of tea!
Teacup Story
The Teacup Story
“Behold, like the clay in the potter’s hand, so are you in my hand.
There was a couple that used to go to England to shop in the beautiful stores. They both liked antiques and pottery, especially teacups. This was their twenty-fifth wedding anniversary. One day in a beautiful shop, they saw an exquisite teacup. They asked the clerk, “May we see that? We’ve never seen one quite so lovely.”
As the lady handed it to them, suddenly the teacup spoke. “You don’t understand,” it said, “I haven’t always been a teacup. There was a time when I was red, and I was clay. My master took me and rolled me and patted me over and over, and I yelled out, ‘let me alone,’ but he only smiled and said, ‘Not yet.’ Then I was placed on a spinning wheel and suddenly spun around, and around, and around. ‘Stop it, I’m getting dizzy!’ I screamed.
“But the master only nodded and said, ‘Not yet.’ Then he put me in the oven. I never felt such heat. I wondered why he wanted to burn me, and I yelled and knocked at the door. I could see him through the opening, and I could read his lips, as he shook his head, ‘Not yet.’
“Finally the door opened, he put me on a shelf, and I began to cool. ‘There, that’s better,’ I said. And he brushed, and painted me all over. The fumes were horrible. I thought I would gag. ‘Stop it, stop it!’ I cried. He only nodded, ‘Not yet.’ Then suddenly he put me back into the oven, not like the first one. This was twice as hot, and I knew I would suffocate. I begged. I pleaded. I screamed. I cried. All the time I could see him through the opening nodding his head saying, ‘Not yet.’
“Then I knew there wasn’t any hope. I would never make it. I was ready to give up. But the door opened, and he took me out and placed me on a shelf. One hour later he handed me a mirror and said, ‘Look at yourself.’ And I did. I said. ‘That’s not me, that couldn’t be me. It’s beautiful. I’m beautiful.’
“I want you to remember, then,’ he said, ‘I know it hurts to be rolled and patted, but if I had left you alone, you’d have dried up. I know it made you dizzy to spin around on the wheel, but if I had stopped, you would have crumbled. I knew it hurt, and was hot and disagreeable in the oven, but if I hadn’t put you there, you would have cracked.”
“I know the fumes were bad when I brushed and painted you all over, but if I hadn’t done that, you never would have hardened; you would not have had any color in your life. And if I hadn’t put you back in that second oven, you wouldn’t survive for very long because the hardness would not have held. Now you are a finished product. You are what I had in mind when I first began with you.”
Moral: God knows what He is doing for all of us. He is the Potter, and we are His clay. He will mold us and make us. So that we may be made into a flawless piece of work to fulfill His good, pleasing, and perfect will.
God bless you as you continue to learn more about Jesus and enjoy tea with Him!
“Behold, like the clay in the potter’s hand, so are you in my hand.
There was a couple that used to go to England to shop in the beautiful stores. They both liked antiques and pottery, especially teacups. This was their twenty-fifth wedding anniversary. One day in a beautiful shop, they saw an exquisite teacup. They asked the clerk, “May we see that? We’ve never seen one quite so lovely.”
As the lady handed it to them, suddenly the teacup spoke. “You don’t understand,” it said, “I haven’t always been a teacup. There was a time when I was red, and I was clay. My master took me and rolled me and patted me over and over, and I yelled out, ‘let me alone,’ but he only smiled and said, ‘Not yet.’ Then I was placed on a spinning wheel and suddenly spun around, and around, and around. ‘Stop it, I’m getting dizzy!’ I screamed.
“But the master only nodded and said, ‘Not yet.’ Then he put me in the oven. I never felt such heat. I wondered why he wanted to burn me, and I yelled and knocked at the door. I could see him through the opening, and I could read his lips, as he shook his head, ‘Not yet.’
“Finally the door opened, he put me on a shelf, and I began to cool. ‘There, that’s better,’ I said. And he brushed, and painted me all over. The fumes were horrible. I thought I would gag. ‘Stop it, stop it!’ I cried. He only nodded, ‘Not yet.’ Then suddenly he put me back into the oven, not like the first one. This was twice as hot, and I knew I would suffocate. I begged. I pleaded. I screamed. I cried. All the time I could see him through the opening nodding his head saying, ‘Not yet.’
“Then I knew there wasn’t any hope. I would never make it. I was ready to give up. But the door opened, and he took me out and placed me on a shelf. One hour later he handed me a mirror and said, ‘Look at yourself.’ And I did. I said. ‘That’s not me, that couldn’t be me. It’s beautiful. I’m beautiful.’
“I want you to remember, then,’ he said, ‘I know it hurts to be rolled and patted, but if I had left you alone, you’d have dried up. I know it made you dizzy to spin around on the wheel, but if I had stopped, you would have crumbled. I knew it hurt, and was hot and disagreeable in the oven, but if I hadn’t put you there, you would have cracked.”
“I know the fumes were bad when I brushed and painted you all over, but if I hadn’t done that, you never would have hardened; you would not have had any color in your life. And if I hadn’t put you back in that second oven, you wouldn’t survive for very long because the hardness would not have held. Now you are a finished product. You are what I had in mind when I first began with you.”
Moral: God knows what He is doing for all of us. He is the Potter, and we are His clay. He will mold us and make us. So that we may be made into a flawless piece of work to fulfill His good, pleasing, and perfect will.
God bless you as you continue to learn more about Jesus and enjoy tea with Him!
Monday, October 25, 2010
From Tea Time for your Soul
When Your Foot Slips
It’s ironic that I was studying the Psalms of Ascent when my foot slipped, and I fell down a half flight of concrete stairs and fractured my tailbone while on a mission trip in Peru. Psalm 121 is one of the most famous from this category, and verse three clearly states: He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber.
We are memorizing this Psalm as part of our study, so these words were on my mind. Someone in the class had already brought up the question of whether we can take these words literally. She asked about the phrase, he will keep you from all harm. I hadn't had a chance to answer her email question because I was leaving town and busy packing; but I can definitely answer it today and, in fact, answer it better. Although keeping my foot from slipping was not my literal experience, I clung to Psalm 121:3 through my descent and fall. After my tumble, I found new strength from this verse and this Psalm.
I definitely needed extra help from the Lord. I was the leader of the trip and my participation and leadership was essential. The Lord gave me all the help I needed to get through the retreat with His empowering Spirit of love and endurance. Each day He would tell me to endure—that was my part.
I do believe that God has literally kept my foot from slipping on more than one occasion. The reality is that I don't even know how many times my carelessness should have resulted in some catastrophe that God simply spared me from without a need to be recognized. Personally I am thankful that He kept anyone else from slipping on this trip; as their leader, it would have been much harder on me if one of my team had this injury. Even in my slip, I could sense that God was there keeping me. The place my tailbone fractured allowed me to sit and stand in some positions without pain. Sleeping was much harder until I got home for treatment. I wasn't forcing a smile when I led my team and fully participated in the aspects of the retreat that were assigned to me. This was proof of God’s presence and protection through my fall. When I couldn't sleep at night, the second part of verse three was a great comfort to me.
I remembered the many times in the gospel that Jesus spent the whole night in prayer. I have purposely spent one night in prayer during a retreat, but usually it requires an inability to sleep for me to turn to prayer in the night—which doesn't happen to me very often. When I couldn't slumber or sleep, I thought of the reality that God doesn't slumber or sleep. He was with me in the night, assuring me that He would supply the strength I would need for the next day; and He did!
Some may question the reality of God’s promises if people slip from time to time. Personally, I don't doubt that this promise is true. I see it that God kept me from slipping in a way that would prevent me from doing what He called me to do. I do look to the hills for my help and find that my help comes from the Lord, the Maker of Heaven and Earth. He knows how to get His work done, and I completely trust Him in that!
Copyright © 2010. Deborah R. Newman. All Rights Reserved. http://www.teatimeforyoursoul.com/
It’s ironic that I was studying the Psalms of Ascent when my foot slipped, and I fell down a half flight of concrete stairs and fractured my tailbone while on a mission trip in Peru. Psalm 121 is one of the most famous from this category, and verse three clearly states: He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber.
We are memorizing this Psalm as part of our study, so these words were on my mind. Someone in the class had already brought up the question of whether we can take these words literally. She asked about the phrase, he will keep you from all harm. I hadn't had a chance to answer her email question because I was leaving town and busy packing; but I can definitely answer it today and, in fact, answer it better. Although keeping my foot from slipping was not my literal experience, I clung to Psalm 121:3 through my descent and fall. After my tumble, I found new strength from this verse and this Psalm.
I definitely needed extra help from the Lord. I was the leader of the trip and my participation and leadership was essential. The Lord gave me all the help I needed to get through the retreat with His empowering Spirit of love and endurance. Each day He would tell me to endure—that was my part.
I do believe that God has literally kept my foot from slipping on more than one occasion. The reality is that I don't even know how many times my carelessness should have resulted in some catastrophe that God simply spared me from without a need to be recognized. Personally I am thankful that He kept anyone else from slipping on this trip; as their leader, it would have been much harder on me if one of my team had this injury. Even in my slip, I could sense that God was there keeping me. The place my tailbone fractured allowed me to sit and stand in some positions without pain. Sleeping was much harder until I got home for treatment. I wasn't forcing a smile when I led my team and fully participated in the aspects of the retreat that were assigned to me. This was proof of God’s presence and protection through my fall. When I couldn't sleep at night, the second part of verse three was a great comfort to me.
I remembered the many times in the gospel that Jesus spent the whole night in prayer. I have purposely spent one night in prayer during a retreat, but usually it requires an inability to sleep for me to turn to prayer in the night—which doesn't happen to me very often. When I couldn't slumber or sleep, I thought of the reality that God doesn't slumber or sleep. He was with me in the night, assuring me that He would supply the strength I would need for the next day; and He did!
Some may question the reality of God’s promises if people slip from time to time. Personally, I don't doubt that this promise is true. I see it that God kept me from slipping in a way that would prevent me from doing what He called me to do. I do look to the hills for my help and find that my help comes from the Lord, the Maker of Heaven and Earth. He knows how to get His work done, and I completely trust Him in that!
Copyright © 2010. Deborah R. Newman. All Rights Reserved. http://www.teatimeforyoursoul.com/
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
My Monday the 18th and my message today
I woke up this morning to look at my message the Lord gave me today and He is so good.
I thought about my day yesterday at Waverly Gardens with the women and tea and message was perfect timing.
This is the way to be successful in life; look for ways to meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of those around you. Try to turn every encounter with another person into a new or stronger friendship.
Dr. James Dobson
Colossians 3:23-24 Whatever you do, work at it, with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
God is amazing and look for your message today and if this touches you in some way let me know!
tea4Jesus@gmail.com
Enjoy your cup or two of tea today and maybe you will encounter it with another person that might be new or strengthen a friendship you already have.
Traveling Tea with Jesus
www.tealightfultreasures.net/tea
I thought about my day yesterday at Waverly Gardens with the women and tea and message was perfect timing.
This is the way to be successful in life; look for ways to meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of those around you. Try to turn every encounter with another person into a new or stronger friendship.
Dr. James Dobson
Colossians 3:23-24 Whatever you do, work at it, with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
God is amazing and look for your message today and if this touches you in some way let me know!
tea4Jesus@gmail.com
Enjoy your cup or two of tea today and maybe you will encounter it with another person that might be new or strengthen a friendship you already have.
www.tealightfultreasures.net/tea
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
The Adventuresome Spirit
.My devotion from A Grand New Day which was good to ponder as I am on this journey.
The Adventuresome Spirit
Ps. 119:114 The way you tell me to live is always right; help me understand it so I can live to the fullest.
It seems like there is something electrifying about individuals with adventuresome spirits. They see life through a different lens. They don't wat on the sidelines. They don't keep sayin, "if only..." or "why me?" They don't battle against unusual circumstances or departures from the norm. It's as if they operate from a whole different voltage or current. They almost emit electricity because nothing about them is dull or uninteresting or unplugged.
A life of adventure is ours for the taking, whether we're seven or seventy-whether we throw a paper route, take care of an aging parent, study for a degree, work around the clock, stay at home to raise our children, or circle the globe in the service of our Creator. I'm convinced that the whole world is better when we, as individuals, capture and savor each moment as the gift that it is, embrace the challenge or joy of it, marry it ( if you will) and thereby transform it with the magic of creative possibility. Life, for the most part, is what we make it. We have been given a responsibility to live it fully, joyfully, completely, and richly, in whatever span of time God grants us on this earth. Luci Swindoll ( I Married Adventure)
Enjoy your cup of tea and this devotion.
Praying you have a blessed day!
The Adventuresome Spirit
Ps. 119:114 The way you tell me to live is always right; help me understand it so I can live to the fullest.
It seems like there is something electrifying about individuals with adventuresome spirits. They see life through a different lens. They don't wat on the sidelines. They don't keep sayin, "if only..." or "why me?" They don't battle against unusual circumstances or departures from the norm. It's as if they operate from a whole different voltage or current. They almost emit electricity because nothing about them is dull or uninteresting or unplugged.
A life of adventure is ours for the taking, whether we're seven or seventy-whether we throw a paper route, take care of an aging parent, study for a degree, work around the clock, stay at home to raise our children, or circle the globe in the service of our Creator. I'm convinced that the whole world is better when we, as individuals, capture and savor each moment as the gift that it is, embrace the challenge or joy of it, marry it ( if you will) and thereby transform it with the magic of creative possibility. Life, for the most part, is what we make it. We have been given a responsibility to live it fully, joyfully, completely, and richly, in whatever span of time God grants us on this earth. Luci Swindoll ( I Married Adventure)
Enjoy your cup of tea and this devotion.
Praying you have a blessed day!
Traveling Tea with Jesus
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
God is powerful
As I sit here on this beautiful Wednesday afternoon I see much that God has created. The sun, the birds, the trees, the grass, the breeze. I just love these type of days with temperature around 70 or so.
I had my cup of tea and devotion. My devotion today was about God being powerful and how we come to him with our requests and He will listen. My prayer for you today is that you will be touched by God today and that you will know He is right there with you.
Traveling Tea with Jesus
Here is my prayer for today and Bible verse I would like to share with you. Enjoy it over a cup of tea.
God’s divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness. Through these (His glory and goodness) He has given us His very great and precious promises, so that through them (the promises) you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires ” ( 2 Peter 1:3&4).
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you that through Your divine power I have all that I need today to get through life and to be a godly person in the process. Thank you that You have given me promises in Your Word. I believe Your Word, please open my heart today to the help of Your Holy Spirit. Thank you that I can actually participate in the divine nature of Jesus and be different where I walk today because of Your power at work in me and through me.
Fill me with Your Spirit now. Help me in the practical circumstances of life today to be wise and
careful. Help me in my relationships today to show Your love and grace. Give me physical and emotional strength. Thank you that I will need nothing today that You cannot lovingly and abundantly supply me with as I allow You access to my whole life today. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen
I had my cup of tea and devotion. My devotion today was about God being powerful and how we come to him with our requests and He will listen. My prayer for you today is that you will be touched by God today and that you will know He is right there with you.
Traveling Tea with Jesus
Here is my prayer for today and Bible verse I would like to share with you. Enjoy it over a cup of tea.
God’s divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness. Through these (His glory and goodness) He has given us His very great and precious promises, so that through them (the promises) you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires ” ( 2 Peter 1:3&4).
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you that through Your divine power I have all that I need today to get through life and to be a godly person in the process. Thank you that You have given me promises in Your Word. I believe Your Word, please open my heart today to the help of Your Holy Spirit. Thank you that I can actually participate in the divine nature of Jesus and be different where I walk today because of Your power at work in me and through me.
Fill me with Your Spirit now. Help me in the practical circumstances of life today to be wise and
careful. Help me in my relationships today to show Your love and grace. Give me physical and emotional strength. Thank you that I will need nothing today that You cannot lovingly and abundantly supply me with as I allow You access to my whole life today. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen
Friday, October 1, 2010
Say "Yes" for tomorrow from the book The Tea Lover's Devotional
Rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven- Luke 10:20
A few days after Roy Rogers passed away at his home in Apple Valley, California, a local Christian television station broadcast a tribute to his life. In one of the segments, Dale Evans, Roy's wife, sang a song entitled, "Say 'Yes' for Tomorrow." This song was dedicated to the memory of Roy's early decision to put his trust in Jesus as his Savior.
While listening to this song I began to think back over my own life, back to when I invited Jesus, as my Lord, into my heart. At that time I made the most important decision in my life. I truly said "yes" for tomorrow," in that I settled my eternity by saying "yes" to Jesus. I was a teenager who came from a Jewish background. Even though my decision for Christ didn't set well with my extended family of aunts and uncles, it did settle for me what my tomorrows would be. My direction for the future was decided. As I've matured in my life I've realized that many adults have never made that affirmation.
What a shame to search all one's life and then, at the end of life, be unsure what the future might hold.
Dale Evans shared with her audience that Roy had made this decision a long time ago. And since she also was a believer she had the assurance that she would be reunited with Roy in heaven.
If you haven't settled what tomorrow will be, take time today to guarantee your destination. Confirm to your family that you will be united together forever in heaven.
Father God, I thank you for providing a way so I can know where my tomorrow will be. Thank you for sending Jesus to pay the price on the cross for my sins.
In advance of a tea party, create a list of what makes each woman you have invited beautiful in your eyes. Use examples from that woman's life of how she demonstrates areas of beauty and grace. Share these with the group and encourage others to offer their words of honor as you lift up each person in attendance.
Where there's tea there's hope. Sir Arthur Pinero
Traveling Tea with Jesus
A few days after Roy Rogers passed away at his home in Apple Valley, California, a local Christian television station broadcast a tribute to his life. In one of the segments, Dale Evans, Roy's wife, sang a song entitled, "Say 'Yes' for Tomorrow." This song was dedicated to the memory of Roy's early decision to put his trust in Jesus as his Savior.
While listening to this song I began to think back over my own life, back to when I invited Jesus, as my Lord, into my heart. At that time I made the most important decision in my life. I truly said "yes" for tomorrow," in that I settled my eternity by saying "yes" to Jesus. I was a teenager who came from a Jewish background. Even though my decision for Christ didn't set well with my extended family of aunts and uncles, it did settle for me what my tomorrows would be. My direction for the future was decided. As I've matured in my life I've realized that many adults have never made that affirmation.
What a shame to search all one's life and then, at the end of life, be unsure what the future might hold.
Dale Evans shared with her audience that Roy had made this decision a long time ago. And since she also was a believer she had the assurance that she would be reunited with Roy in heaven.
If you haven't settled what tomorrow will be, take time today to guarantee your destination. Confirm to your family that you will be united together forever in heaven.
Father God, I thank you for providing a way so I can know where my tomorrow will be. Thank you for sending Jesus to pay the price on the cross for my sins.
In advance of a tea party, create a list of what makes each woman you have invited beautiful in your eyes. Use examples from that woman's life of how she demonstrates areas of beauty and grace. Share these with the group and encourage others to offer their words of honor as you lift up each person in attendance.
Traveling Tea with Jesus
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