About Me
- The Preacher's Wife
- A good girl, but not good enough. Striving for greatness in the sight of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I am here to learn and grow with you as we seek out knowledge from the REAl "Know it all". Please submit letters, questions or topics to DearPW@ymail.com .
Monday, November 12, 2012
Eat up!
Yesterday several people during testimony time at our evening worship service were talking about being still and listening to God. Actually taking the time to listen to what He wants to tell Him in stead of blurting out all of our prayer and then "amen". I try to always remember this but I do confess that when life is pulling me in a thousand directions my prayer time and study time are the first things to slip off the agenda! Oh, I am sure some of you gasp at the thought of this...."isn't she a pastor's wife??". YES!!! My name is Christina Volpe, I am a pastor's wife and get this...I AM A SINNER TOO! Sometimes the "super-holy" attitudes of others make me think I might sin more than most. And while it's "confession time" I will share that I have let this unrealistic pressure of being "perfect" hinder my writing of these devotions. I am sorry to all of you who read this for my slackness. Today is a new day and I can only try. But I (as I step of my soap box) will get back to the devotion I wanted to share with you this morning.
As I lay there quiet this morning just listening for God He spoke to me in a way He does often do....with my own words! Does this ever happen to you? You hear the Lord repeat to you something you "preach" to other, but fail to do yourself? Well that is what happen to me, but the message is not as clear as "Wait on the Lord" or "This to shall pass" it was me daily telling my kids "No candy before lunch". Strange huh? Well let me share how the Lord used this to speak to me. I have often heard it said that 'baby Christians must drink milk and grow before they are read for meat", this is true...but "chew" on this: Once we reach "meat stage" we find ourselves looking forward to "dessert"...heaven. But as any good parent would God is reminding me this morning that there is still "dinner" on my plate, still things that need to be done, people who need to be witnessed to and an entire world who is searching for the love of Jesus even though it is hard to convince them of it. I know the thought of meat and veggies is not as mouth-watering as a big hunk of sweet cake, but the meat will nourish us and grow us and the cake will still be there when we are through!
For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. Hebrews 5:13-14
For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself, Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee. And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise. Hebrews 6:10-15
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Bible Moms
I stumbled apon this Bible study of Bible Mothers last year and I thought I would share it with all of you today.
EVE: The Mother Of All Living - Found in Genesis - more specifically, of Cain, Abel, and Seth (and several unnamed others).
I guess if we are to commence in chronological order we would have to begin with Eve, the mother of us all. And she was the woman who made THE "monumental, mind-blowing, affects-everybody forever" mistake. So she probably deserves the bad rap she gets. You have to feel a little bit of sympathy for the girl who didn't have a mother to ask about how things were for her back in the day. When the kids had a temperature or were teething she just had to use that God-given mother intuition.
And sure, Eve got us into epidurals, but she had the mother of all heartache, too. Her sons were involved in the first homicide. She was the first mom to have to bury her child.
JOCHEBED: Found first in Exodus. Mother of Aaron, Moses, and Miriam.
If there was ever a mom whose life would have made a great screenplay for a Lifetime for Women movie it would be Jochebed. You just have to give it up for her and the midwives who, in their act of civil disobedience, allowed Moses to be born. In the first chapter of Exodus it says that the midwives feared God, and therefore did not kill the Hebrew sons. Here is the reply from the midwives to Pharaoh when questioned: "And the midwives said unto Pharaoh, Because the Hebrew women are not as the Egyptian women; for they are lively, and are delivered ere the midwives come in unto them." (Ex 1:19) So basicly those Hebrew women were "lively" and just popped those babies out before they could get there! Thus baby Moses was born but had to be sent down the river (literally) with his sister serving as lookout, only to be pulled out of the water by the pharaoh's daughter, who secured the services of Moses' biological mom to nanny him. Talk about movie script material!
Anyway, Moses' mom shows us that the determination and ingenuity of a desperate mother can result in surprising circumstances.
BATHSHEBA: Found in 2 Samuel. Mother of Solomon.
Bathsheba was well-named as it was her "bath-ing" that attracted the attention of King David. Their illicit affair resulted in the birth of a son. David tried for some damage control by sending her husband out to war, back to the house hoping for a cover-up, and then out to the frontlines to get killed. David got his wish -Bathsheba's husband was killed in battle, and David thought he had gotten away with it. Nathan confronted him and David repented bitterly. But we never really hear how it all affected Bathsheba. However, a son was born from their union and Solomon turned out to be a peaceable ruler whose wisdom was legendary.
Bathsheba's motherhood gives women hope that, regardless of the circumstances surrounding your pregnancy and the birth of your child, God can redeem any situation. You never know, you might just have the wisest person ever on the planet staring back at you from that high chair.
MARY: First read of in Matthew. Mother of Jesus.
Talk about your early pregnancy test . . .Mary's was early, EARLY! And accurate, too. Angelic visitation definitely qualifies as a sure thing. But the favored girl had to have some concerns because unwed pregnancy was a little different back then. You could get stoned for it. I'm sure she was very relieved to find out that the angel had given her beau, Joseph, the same message. And yes, she was going to give birth to the divine Gift of heaven, but, as any mother knows, all gifts come with some work attached. She still had to change the Baby Jesus' diapers, soothe him as he teethed, teach him to walk, and clean up his skinned knees. She had to cook the meals and wash his clothes and do all the things that moms do for their children. It's interesting the places we see Mary pop up in the gospels-for example, at the temple sending out an APB for her boy. Another place we read about Mary is in John Ch.2 when she was at the wedding feast apparently exasperated with her thirty-year-old son for not doing that "thing" he could do with the water. In the end Jesus does the miracle, but I would have loved to have been there to see the looks pass between mother and son that night. And then we see Mary at the crucifixion. Disciples may scatter, followers may be in hiding, but a mother stays when the rest of the world walks away.
Mary is a rich tapestry of real motherhood: a lot of excitement followed by years of work and moments of intense pain. But through it all, mothers are there.
Happy Mother's Day!
EVE: The Mother Of All Living - Found in Genesis - more specifically, of Cain, Abel, and Seth (and several unnamed others).
I guess if we are to commence in chronological order we would have to begin with Eve, the mother of us all. And she was the woman who made THE "monumental, mind-blowing, affects-everybody forever" mistake. So she probably deserves the bad rap she gets. You have to feel a little bit of sympathy for the girl who didn't have a mother to ask about how things were for her back in the day. When the kids had a temperature or were teething she just had to use that God-given mother intuition.
And sure, Eve got us into epidurals, but she had the mother of all heartache, too. Her sons were involved in the first homicide. She was the first mom to have to bury her child.
JOCHEBED: Found first in Exodus. Mother of Aaron, Moses, and Miriam.
If there was ever a mom whose life would have made a great screenplay for a Lifetime for Women movie it would be Jochebed. You just have to give it up for her and the midwives who, in their act of civil disobedience, allowed Moses to be born. In the first chapter of Exodus it says that the midwives feared God, and therefore did not kill the Hebrew sons. Here is the reply from the midwives to Pharaoh when questioned: "And the midwives said unto Pharaoh, Because the Hebrew women are not as the Egyptian women; for they are lively, and are delivered ere the midwives come in unto them." (Ex 1:19) So basicly those Hebrew women were "lively" and just popped those babies out before they could get there! Thus baby Moses was born but had to be sent down the river (literally) with his sister serving as lookout, only to be pulled out of the water by the pharaoh's daughter, who secured the services of Moses' biological mom to nanny him. Talk about movie script material!
Anyway, Moses' mom shows us that the determination and ingenuity of a desperate mother can result in surprising circumstances.
BATHSHEBA: Found in 2 Samuel. Mother of Solomon.
Bathsheba was well-named as it was her "bath-ing" that attracted the attention of King David. Their illicit affair resulted in the birth of a son. David tried for some damage control by sending her husband out to war, back to the house hoping for a cover-up, and then out to the frontlines to get killed. David got his wish -Bathsheba's husband was killed in battle, and David thought he had gotten away with it. Nathan confronted him and David repented bitterly. But we never really hear how it all affected Bathsheba. However, a son was born from their union and Solomon turned out to be a peaceable ruler whose wisdom was legendary.
Bathsheba's motherhood gives women hope that, regardless of the circumstances surrounding your pregnancy and the birth of your child, God can redeem any situation. You never know, you might just have the wisest person ever on the planet staring back at you from that high chair.
MARY: First read of in Matthew. Mother of Jesus.
Talk about your early pregnancy test . . .Mary's was early, EARLY! And accurate, too. Angelic visitation definitely qualifies as a sure thing. But the favored girl had to have some concerns because unwed pregnancy was a little different back then. You could get stoned for it. I'm sure she was very relieved to find out that the angel had given her beau, Joseph, the same message. And yes, she was going to give birth to the divine Gift of heaven, but, as any mother knows, all gifts come with some work attached. She still had to change the Baby Jesus' diapers, soothe him as he teethed, teach him to walk, and clean up his skinned knees. She had to cook the meals and wash his clothes and do all the things that moms do for their children. It's interesting the places we see Mary pop up in the gospels-for example, at the temple sending out an APB for her boy. Another place we read about Mary is in John Ch.2 when she was at the wedding feast apparently exasperated with her thirty-year-old son for not doing that "thing" he could do with the water. In the end Jesus does the miracle, but I would have loved to have been there to see the looks pass between mother and son that night. And then we see Mary at the crucifixion. Disciples may scatter, followers may be in hiding, but a mother stays when the rest of the world walks away.
Mary is a rich tapestry of real motherhood: a lot of excitement followed by years of work and moments of intense pain. But through it all, mothers are there.
Happy Mother's Day!
Friday, February 24, 2012
Do you see what I see...
For they all saw Him, and were troubled. And immediately He talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid. Mark 6:50
The story of Jesus feeding the multitude is widely known, and it goes as follows:
And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things. And when the day was now far spent, his disciples came unto him, and said, This is a desert place, and now the time is far passed: Send them away, that they may go into the country round about, and into the villages, and buy themselves bread: for they have nothing to eat. He answered and said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they say unto him, Shall we go and buy two hundred pennyworth of bread, and give them to eat? He saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? go and see. And when they knew, they say, Five, and two fishes. And he commanded them to make all sit down by companies upon the green grass. And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties. And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among them all. And they did all eat, and were filled. And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes. And they that did eat of the loaves were about five thousand men. Mark 6:34-44
Pretty amazing, right? And after witnessing that miracle surely the disciples knew that this certainly was an act of God, right? They would know that Jesus was Lord and they would believe in Him and never waiver in their faith again, right? Well that is not exactly how this story ends…
And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while he sent away the people. And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray. And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land. And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them. But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out: For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid. And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered. For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened. Mark 6:45-52
The Bible says “straightway”, so immediately after that the disciples entered the ship as Jesus instructed them to do, but after He left them for a while He finds them floundering in the water. And this time they let the circumstances that surround them cloud their vision of another miracle that was taking place.
We let the world take over and we are so busy just trying to stay afloat. When the Lord shows up in a miraculous way we actually become frightened. We can’t remember all of the times He has taken care of us in the past and the clarity that we need in our lives has been over thrown by the devil. Don’t let satan keep you jaded. When the savior shows up to calm the storm in your life make sure you do not mistake Him for a fearful or foreign object. Fuel your faith with thoughts of all the amazing things He has already done in your life, keep paddling and fix your eyes on the horizon. You will see Him coming.
-PW
The story of Jesus feeding the multitude is widely known, and it goes as follows:
And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things. And when the day was now far spent, his disciples came unto him, and said, This is a desert place, and now the time is far passed: Send them away, that they may go into the country round about, and into the villages, and buy themselves bread: for they have nothing to eat. He answered and said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they say unto him, Shall we go and buy two hundred pennyworth of bread, and give them to eat? He saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? go and see. And when they knew, they say, Five, and two fishes. And he commanded them to make all sit down by companies upon the green grass. And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties. And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among them all. And they did all eat, and were filled. And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes. And they that did eat of the loaves were about five thousand men. Mark 6:34-44
Pretty amazing, right? And after witnessing that miracle surely the disciples knew that this certainly was an act of God, right? They would know that Jesus was Lord and they would believe in Him and never waiver in their faith again, right? Well that is not exactly how this story ends…
And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while he sent away the people. And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray. And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land. And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them. But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out: For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid. And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered. For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened. Mark 6:45-52
The Bible says “straightway”, so immediately after that the disciples entered the ship as Jesus instructed them to do, but after He left them for a while He finds them floundering in the water. And this time they let the circumstances that surround them cloud their vision of another miracle that was taking place.
We let the world take over and we are so busy just trying to stay afloat. When the Lord shows up in a miraculous way we actually become frightened. We can’t remember all of the times He has taken care of us in the past and the clarity that we need in our lives has been over thrown by the devil. Don’t let satan keep you jaded. When the savior shows up to calm the storm in your life make sure you do not mistake Him for a fearful or foreign object. Fuel your faith with thoughts of all the amazing things He has already done in your life, keep paddling and fix your eyes on the horizon. You will see Him coming.
-PW
Sunday, February 5, 2012
In the forth quarter...
For they intended evil against thee: they imagined a mischievous device, which they are not able to perform. Therefore shalt thou make them turn their back, when thou shalt make ready thine arrows upon thy strings against the face of them. Be thou exalted, LORD, in thine own strength: so will we sing and praise thy power. Psalms 21:11-13
I cannot believe I am actually using a football story as a devotional, but I guess if God can make the rocks cry out he can use pig-skin too!
Recently my husband and I were unable to watch the live game of our favorite football team. We decided to record the game and watch it when we returned home. But before we could get home to watch the recorded game we learned the final score and to our surprise our team came out on top. We were so excited a hurried home to watch all of the great plays we had missed. However, this game was no shut-out! Actually it came down to the wire and our favorite team was able to pull off a win in overtime. It was so humorous to me that we were watching what most would call a “nail biter” with a smile on our face. Even when the other team would score we were still content, knowing that in the end we would have the victory. And in that moment, in the corky way that God sometimes speaks to me, I heard Him loud and clear this night: “You already know who has the victory, so keep on smiling.”!
I remember this night often when I feel like Satan has the upper-hand on all that is taking place in the world and in my circumstances. The Lord reminds me that He is still working ALL things for the good, and that I can continue my days with a smile on my face. I have read how this “game’ ends and it’s not a pretty end for ol’ Satan.
And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. Rev. 20:10
But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1Cor. 15:57
--PW
Monday, December 5, 2011
Keep the Faith
Dear PW,
I have been going through a transition of sorts these last few months and I just wanted to let you know that I feel blessed that you are my cousin. I hate that as we grew up we did not get to spent more time with each other but I wanted to let you know that I feel lucky to know you.
I've been going through some horrible things recently... husband troubles mostly. Through reading about your life through your family blog and the stories of your friend Sarabeth it has helped me renew a faith that had long ago been lost. And out of all my so called friends, Sarabeth is the one that reached out to me. A person that does not even know me and really shouldn't care- but does.
Much love!
Cousin in Crisis
Dear Cousin in Crisis,
Thank you so much for this sweet note! I love you and I wish that we had spent more time together when we were closer too. It is funny how things work out and if it was not for my move that took me over 700 mile away from my family I would have never made that family blog and then we might not be having this conversation right now.
It just goes to prove that we know nothing about the plans of God. In so many ways I can look back on my life and see times when I had little faith in how God could really be working things out for the good in my life, but when I chose to continue to trust in Him, He worked things out in a miraculous way.
I had no idea about your failing marriage and I would love to help in any way. If you ever need to talk I am always here for you. Like I said I have really no clue what all is going on, but I am sure that all of this started about the time that you decided to let the Lord make a change in your life.
That is how Satan works. In my short years as a pastor's wife I have run out of fingers to count the times that I see this same thing happen to new members in our church. Satan's stratagy always seems to be one of division. It is so much easier to bring down a family from serving the Lord by stirring up trouble between the husband and the wife.
I know that it is hard to keep the faith through all this, but I strongly encourage you that if you stay on the path the Lord has for you HE WILL WORK ALL THINGS FOR YOUR GOOD! Read this verse daily and remind yourself that God has got it all under control: "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28
A few facts that I have learned in times like you are facing:
-God does not always, actually rarely ever does He reveal His "plans" to us until after they come to pass.
-and that He is on His own time schedule not ours, He will show up and show off at just the right time:)
I love you and I think that when you are weighing whether or not following the Lord is worth losing the life you have known, remind yourself of your childern's recent decission to turn their own life over to the Lord and become a Child of God. I promise that it will make all the difference.
-PW
I have been going through a transition of sorts these last few months and I just wanted to let you know that I feel blessed that you are my cousin. I hate that as we grew up we did not get to spent more time with each other but I wanted to let you know that I feel lucky to know you.
I've been going through some horrible things recently... husband troubles mostly. Through reading about your life through your family blog and the stories of your friend Sarabeth it has helped me renew a faith that had long ago been lost. And out of all my so called friends, Sarabeth is the one that reached out to me. A person that does not even know me and really shouldn't care- but does.
Much love!
Cousin in Crisis
Dear Cousin in Crisis,
Thank you so much for this sweet note! I love you and I wish that we had spent more time together when we were closer too. It is funny how things work out and if it was not for my move that took me over 700 mile away from my family I would have never made that family blog and then we might not be having this conversation right now.
It just goes to prove that we know nothing about the plans of God. In so many ways I can look back on my life and see times when I had little faith in how God could really be working things out for the good in my life, but when I chose to continue to trust in Him, He worked things out in a miraculous way.
I had no idea about your failing marriage and I would love to help in any way. If you ever need to talk I am always here for you. Like I said I have really no clue what all is going on, but I am sure that all of this started about the time that you decided to let the Lord make a change in your life.
That is how Satan works. In my short years as a pastor's wife I have run out of fingers to count the times that I see this same thing happen to new members in our church. Satan's stratagy always seems to be one of division. It is so much easier to bring down a family from serving the Lord by stirring up trouble between the husband and the wife.
I know that it is hard to keep the faith through all this, but I strongly encourage you that if you stay on the path the Lord has for you HE WILL WORK ALL THINGS FOR YOUR GOOD! Read this verse daily and remind yourself that God has got it all under control: "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28
A few facts that I have learned in times like you are facing:
-God does not always, actually rarely ever does He reveal His "plans" to us until after they come to pass.
-and that He is on His own time schedule not ours, He will show up and show off at just the right time:)
I love you and I think that when you are weighing whether or not following the Lord is worth losing the life you have known, remind yourself of your childern's recent decission to turn their own life over to the Lord and become a Child of God. I promise that it will make all the difference.
-PW
Friday, November 18, 2011
Blessed
Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matt 5:10
I have quoted this verse, claimed it and owned it, more times than I would like to say. I has been my promise that better things await me and in the midst of my trial I am still a heir to The Thrown. However, the Lord has revealed this verse to me in a whole new way. Have you ever heard it said that you can read a verse and receive a message through it, but then read it again at another time a God will speak to you in a different way. Now some would say "Oh yes, it is all in the interpreting.", well I don't think that there is multiple interpretations in the Word. I think that Jesus spoke or inspired the penman just the way He wanted it to be received, but I do believe that there are pieces and truths in His word that are hid from us until just the perfect time. My example is this verse from Matthew 5. As I read it in the middle of my trial I claim it as a promise that in the end we, as Christians, have the victory. And this is a true statement. But there is another promise. Do you see it? If you are a born again believer in Jesus Christ-a Christian, than the Kingdom of Heaven is already yours. So if you read this in reverse the promise is that those who are heirs to the Kingdom of Heaven will be persecuted for righteousness sake. Now I know that doesn't seem like something you want printed on a magnet and posted on the fridge as a daily reminder, but I am leaving out the best part: Blessed. This Christian life is not an easy walk and He promises (in many verses) that there will tribulation, but "blessed" are we that that can claim many verses that also state we will never have to walk it alone.
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen. Matt 28:19-20
-PW
I have quoted this verse, claimed it and owned it, more times than I would like to say. I has been my promise that better things await me and in the midst of my trial I am still a heir to The Thrown. However, the Lord has revealed this verse to me in a whole new way. Have you ever heard it said that you can read a verse and receive a message through it, but then read it again at another time a God will speak to you in a different way. Now some would say "Oh yes, it is all in the interpreting.", well I don't think that there is multiple interpretations in the Word. I think that Jesus spoke or inspired the penman just the way He wanted it to be received, but I do believe that there are pieces and truths in His word that are hid from us until just the perfect time. My example is this verse from Matthew 5. As I read it in the middle of my trial I claim it as a promise that in the end we, as Christians, have the victory. And this is a true statement. But there is another promise. Do you see it? If you are a born again believer in Jesus Christ-a Christian, than the Kingdom of Heaven is already yours. So if you read this in reverse the promise is that those who are heirs to the Kingdom of Heaven will be persecuted for righteousness sake. Now I know that doesn't seem like something you want printed on a magnet and posted on the fridge as a daily reminder, but I am leaving out the best part: Blessed. This Christian life is not an easy walk and He promises (in many verses) that there will tribulation, but "blessed" are we that that can claim many verses that also state we will never have to walk it alone.
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen. Matt 28:19-20
-PW
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
November 8th, 2011
Word of the day: Election
2 Peter 1:10: Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:
God has a plan for you to prosper. Make sure you are living the life He elected you for. In God's Will, "your calling", you shall never fail.
-PW
2 Peter 1:10: Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:
God has a plan for you to prosper. Make sure you are living the life He elected you for. In God's Will, "your calling", you shall never fail.
-PW
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Through the Fire
1 Peter 1:6-7
Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:
Earthly trials constitute a problem of our salvation, but they are only for a season. "Manifold temptations" means diversified trials. Hold strong to the fact that your salvation cannot be destroyed and be encouraged that God is using this "season" to refine your faith.
-PW
Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:
Earthly trials constitute a problem of our salvation, but they are only for a season. "Manifold temptations" means diversified trials. Hold strong to the fact that your salvation cannot be destroyed and be encouraged that God is using this "season" to refine your faith.
-PW
Friday, October 21, 2011
Fruit of Your Hands
Proverbs 31:10-31
(*Traits of a virtuous woman)
Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. (*Rare) The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. (*Trustworthy and constant in her love) She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands. (*Industrious) She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar. (*Thrifty) She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens. (*Self-motivated) She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard. (*Enterprising) She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night. (*Willing to do hard work and work long hours) She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff. (* Willing to do monotonous work) She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. (*Compassionate) She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet. (*Prepared) She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple. (*Clothed as a princess) Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land. (*Her husband is seen as a leader, if even it is only as the leader of is household) She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant. (*Entrepreneur) Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. (*Not swayed by circumstances) She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. (*Wise and kind) She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. (*Duty-conscious) Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. (*Blessed by her family) Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. (*Not satisfied with mediocre) Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised. (*Woman of God) Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates. (*Praiseworthy)
-PW
(*Traits of a virtuous woman)
Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. (*Rare) The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. (*Trustworthy and constant in her love) She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands. (*Industrious) She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar. (*Thrifty) She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens. (*Self-motivated) She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard. (*Enterprising) She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night. (*Willing to do hard work and work long hours) She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff. (* Willing to do monotonous work) She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. (*Compassionate) She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet. (*Prepared) She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple. (*Clothed as a princess) Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land. (*Her husband is seen as a leader, if even it is only as the leader of is household) She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant. (*Entrepreneur) Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. (*Not swayed by circumstances) She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. (*Wise and kind) She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. (*Duty-conscious) Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. (*Blessed by her family) Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. (*Not satisfied with mediocre) Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised. (*Woman of God) Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates. (*Praiseworthy)
-PW
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Clinging to the Promises of God
Dear PW,
We ALL get that alone feeling, the distant feeling,the yuck of this world will do that to us. I know that by staying in God's Word and prayer and fellowship with fellow believer we can overcome this feeling. Can you show us thru Biblical advice how to shed those feelings and feel victorious over this world?
Sincerely,
Sister-in-Christ :)
Thank you for the encouragement. I feel like the rolls are reversed and I am the one seeking advise. Sweet "Sister-in-Christ" you reminded me of my own proclamation to seek answers from God. Well He has been speaking and here is what I heard:
-Phil 4:13: I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
-Heb 13:5: Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
-Rom 8:37: Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us.
-Matt 28:19-20: Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
-PW
Why?
Why do I feel like I am barely keeping my head above water?
Why do I feel so alone?
Why do I feel so distance from God right now?
Why don't you write?
Why do find it so hard to blog this week?
...Why am I so scared to post this?
--PW
Why do I feel so alone?
Why do I feel so distance from God right now?
Why don't you write?
Why do find it so hard to blog this week?
...Why am I so scared to post this?
--PW
Monday, October 3, 2011
What's love got to do with it...
...everything.
Matt 22:37-39: Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt LOVE the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt LOVE thy neighbour as thyself.
John 3:16: For God so LOVED the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
John 14:15: If ye LOVE me, keep my commandments.
John 14:28: Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye LOVED me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.
John 15:9: As the Father hath LOVED me, so have I LOVED you: continue ye in my LOVE.
John 15:13: Greater LOVE hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Romans 5:8: But God commendeth his LOVE toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 8:38-39: For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the LOVE of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
-PW
Matt 22:37-39: Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt LOVE the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt LOVE thy neighbour as thyself.
John 3:16: For God so LOVED the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
John 14:15: If ye LOVE me, keep my commandments.
John 14:28: Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye LOVED me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.
John 15:9: As the Father hath LOVED me, so have I LOVED you: continue ye in my LOVE.
John 15:13: Greater LOVE hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Romans 5:8: But God commendeth his LOVE toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 8:38-39: For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the LOVE of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
-PW
Thursday, September 29, 2011
The narrow road.
I shared that the final words from God that pushed me to do this blog were: Are you publishing the Gospel? Well I followed in obedience to start the blog but let's make sure that I am publishing the Gospel.
So what is the Gospel? Well, as I have proclaimed all questions here will be answered with the Bible. In Romans 1:16 it is written: For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
Have you received the gift of Salvation? Do you know how? Again we look to the "Answer Key".
John 3:16-17: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
Romans 3:23: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Romans 6:23: For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Romans 5:8: But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 10:9: That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
Romans 10:13: For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
This week I have seen the example of how much the traditions of men and "church" can confuse people and there thoughts of how to receive Salvation. God makes the instructions plain to see and simple to do. He is not the Author of confusion (1 Cor 14:33). It is His will that ALL hear the message, understand it, and believe upon Him.
If you have not done so already, please call on the name of the Lord today. There are no special words to pray. Just speak from your heart. Admit the sin that is in your life and recognize that you are in need of a Savior. Believe that Jesus Christ was sent to Earth and lived a sinless life, but was crucified as payment for the sin of ALL men. And graciously ask to receive the gift of that precious blood that was shed...and you WILL BE SAVED!
When you pray and receive Christ please e-mail me at DearPW@ymail.com . I won't embarrass you, I just want to rejoice with you.
If you are already a Christian please take the opportunity of this blog to share the Gospel with your lost friends and family members.
These words are written in love and compassion for ALL of God's children. God bless you.
--PW
So what is the Gospel? Well, as I have proclaimed all questions here will be answered with the Bible. In Romans 1:16 it is written: For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
Have you received the gift of Salvation? Do you know how? Again we look to the "Answer Key".
John 3:16-17: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
Romans 3:23: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Romans 6:23: For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Romans 5:8: But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 10:9: That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
Romans 10:13: For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
This week I have seen the example of how much the traditions of men and "church" can confuse people and there thoughts of how to receive Salvation. God makes the instructions plain to see and simple to do. He is not the Author of confusion (1 Cor 14:33). It is His will that ALL hear the message, understand it, and believe upon Him.
If you have not done so already, please call on the name of the Lord today. There are no special words to pray. Just speak from your heart. Admit the sin that is in your life and recognize that you are in need of a Savior. Believe that Jesus Christ was sent to Earth and lived a sinless life, but was crucified as payment for the sin of ALL men. And graciously ask to receive the gift of that precious blood that was shed...and you WILL BE SAVED!
When you pray and receive Christ please e-mail me at DearPW@ymail.com . I won't embarrass you, I just want to rejoice with you.
If you are already a Christian please take the opportunity of this blog to share the Gospel with your lost friends and family members.
These words are written in love and compassion for ALL of God's children. God bless you.
--PW
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Satan is a lier and a loser...
Woke up to my first PW letter. This is more a letter of encouragement not one seeking advice. I forgot to mention those are always welcome!!!
The bible instructs us to share our trials so that we may grow in unity:
Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. James 5:16
Satan's M.O. is always to convince us we know better than God. God gave us the armour to protect us and help us defeat the devil. Make sure you put it on this morning.
Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; Eph 6:13-18
Thank you Mother of Two for sharing and for tuning in on the blog. God bless you and your family.
--PW
Hello PW,
Thanks you so much for following what the Lord has commanded you to do. I am so excited to see this idea and journey with the rest of you. I went to the first ever .Mom conference in Birmingham Alabama this past weekend, my first ever. I like you-- tried to talk my way out of it with endless excuses to myself and to God. I prayed about it and came to the conclusion that it wasn’t my mothering instinct coming out but Satan possibly not wanting me to go somewhere where I might be spiritually strengthened and grow more on my spiritual journey. I followed what the Lord led me to do and went, and grew so much in my relationship with the Lord. I was convicted in many ways of stuff I was doing wrong and then confirmed of stuff I was doing right. I commend you too for doing what the Lord would have you do, I wish you well and look forward to learning and growing on this spiritual journey with you.
Sincerely,
A Mother of Two
The bible instructs us to share our trials so that we may grow in unity:
Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. James 5:16
Satan's M.O. is always to convince us we know better than God. God gave us the armour to protect us and help us defeat the devil. Make sure you put it on this morning.
Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; Eph 6:13-18
Thank you Mother of Two for sharing and for tuning in on the blog. God bless you and your family.
--PW
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
In the beginning...
Jesus laid a vision on my heart for this blog and I have spent almost a week trying to talk Him out of it. The title of our Sunday night message... "Are you publishing the Gospel?" Here's your sign :)
Why do we turn to self-help books and motivational speakers? We subscribe to magazines and spend hundreds of dollars on videos. Most of the time to gain a new perspective and a clear vision on what is the "right" way to handle a circumstance. The real answers flow from the Author of our circumstances and lives.
Like the title of the blog states I am a preacher's wife...but I am also a helpless sinner. Filthy rags, but for the blood Jesus shed for me (and you) on the cross at Calvary. I too need to get back to the basics. God promises we can do all (handle all) through Him...again I say: THROUGH HIM. Through prayer and scripture God will reveal an answer for us.
So here lies the purpose for this blog. The vision: a "Dear Abby" if you will, but for us to seek knowledge from God not my human and fallible mind. I encourage you to travel this journey of growth with me. Together we will learn the ways of life as our Heavenly Father intended it. He already gave us the "How to..." book. Let us seek out the answers together.
I have created an e-mail account at DearPW@ymail.com . I will read your letters and post them on the blog with the Biblical advice that the Lord shares with me. The comment section will be available to viewers to post their Biblical perspective as well. Emphasis on the word Biblical. Comments will first be approved by me to weed out "trash". Please provide scripture references with your comments. There will be no limit on the topics discussed. God provided the answers to "it all" in the Bible, therefore we discuss "it all".
All letter writers will remain anonymous as well as myself :)
-PW
Why do we turn to self-help books and motivational speakers? We subscribe to magazines and spend hundreds of dollars on videos. Most of the time to gain a new perspective and a clear vision on what is the "right" way to handle a circumstance. The real answers flow from the Author of our circumstances and lives.
Like the title of the blog states I am a preacher's wife...but I am also a helpless sinner. Filthy rags, but for the blood Jesus shed for me (and you) on the cross at Calvary. I too need to get back to the basics. God promises we can do all (handle all) through Him...again I say: THROUGH HIM. Through prayer and scripture God will reveal an answer for us.
So here lies the purpose for this blog. The vision: a "Dear Abby" if you will, but for us to seek knowledge from God not my human and fallible mind. I encourage you to travel this journey of growth with me. Together we will learn the ways of life as our Heavenly Father intended it. He already gave us the "How to..." book. Let us seek out the answers together.
I have created an e-mail account at DearPW@ymail.com . I will read your letters and post them on the blog with the Biblical advice that the Lord shares with me. The comment section will be available to viewers to post their Biblical perspective as well. Emphasis on the word Biblical. Comments will first be approved by me to weed out "trash". Please provide scripture references with your comments. There will be no limit on the topics discussed. God provided the answers to "it all" in the Bible, therefore we discuss "it all".
All letter writers will remain anonymous as well as myself :)
-PW
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