Church Awakening!

So, hello to all who might find themselves reading my little posts! 

I have just started reading "Church Awakening" by Charles Swindoll. Wow! I am only through the introduction and first chapter. Here is a quote found in the first few pages.

"When the Church is absolutely different from the world, she is invariably attracts it. It is then that the world is made to listen to her message, though it may hate it at first." - D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones 

So is it safe to say we are to look different form the world? Yes! We are not suppose to fit into a box the world has for us. We are to stand out! We are to look different so that we attract the world. Those who are unsaved are in desperate need of what we have. You are walking around with the "cure" for a dying world. What are you doing about it? 

This week in church our sermon is on Galatians 2: 19-20. 
¹⁹ “For through the law I died to the law so that I might live for God. ²⁰ I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

If it is Christ who lives in us then what are we afraid of? Christ did some amazing things while on earth and this verse is saying that He now dwells in you! Do what you are called to do. Stand up and defend the gospel in your school, workplace, your home and yes in some sad cases your church! We have been made for so much more. Don't settle for anything less than what God has in store for you. He loves you and wants to reveal His plan for you life. Let Him! 

Okay now I'm done. I just thought someone ought to know that being joyful for the Lord is nothing to be ashamed of but rather excited about. "Lift my hands and turn around, see the light that I have found! Oh the marvelous light, marvelous light!" 

- Jill

Happy New Year!

I have to apologize, I have not been a faithful blogger. My life this year is going to change drastically. The year 2012 has opened my eyes to some difficult situations that I need to address. Here is a look at the year 2012. In March I started attending a new church. After a few months I became the new worship leader! I didn't see that one coming but gladly stepped up to the call my Lord and Savior had for me. In August I started my second semester in college and tried to take on a bigger work load. (I did not do well in school) 

Like many others I asked myself questions like where am I going with my life? Is this really right for me? What is God's plan for my life? I worried about a job and stressed about school. My family wasn't top priority. As if that weren't enough I began to wonder where God was in it all. Although 2012 was filled with many difficult situations and worries but I made it through. 

Here are the happy things: I ran my second half marathon, all by myself! I also ran two 5k races. I kept my New Years resolution not to eat fried food. No donuts, french fries or chips for me! I went sky diving for my 21st birthday! I took a class and became certified to conceal carry. I also voted for the United States President. 

I look forward to 2013 and all that is to come. When I face trials and tribulations I will be ready because Jesus promises to never leave or forsake us. (Deuteronomy 31:6) He is always there and when it feels like He isn't, I bet you're the one who has strayed. 

My resolution for 2013 is to read. I have never enjoyed reading but I know there is so much to learn. I have already read one book and have started my next one. I plan on reading one book a month and also read through the whole Bible.

Lord, prepare me for the new year. Challenge me, strengthen me and guide me through each and every step.

- Jill Emily