I came home after the 'Stila' Premiere and felt like reading before going to sleep. I love Tuesday nights sleeping because it is the ONLY night of the week that I sleep through the whole night, so I knew I could stay up reading. I don't have the next book in the series I was reading, so I decided to pick up "The Barbarian Way" by Erwin McManus. This book has been waiting for God's perfect timing to be read. Just like McManus's last book I read.
I have only read the first chapter, but here is how God spoke to me through some of McManus's writing so far:
To claim we believe is simply not enough. The call of Jesus is one that demands action.
On Sunday, I wrote that my prayer has been "not just being around people believing in God, but having that belief transformed in people taking action seizing moments and meeting the Risen Christ."
To belong to God is to belong to His heart. If we have responded to the call of Jesus to leave everything and follow Him, then there is a voice within us crying out, "Fight for the heart of your King!"
the cost to participate in the mission of God is nothing less than everything we are and everything we have.
They (barbarians) live their lives with every step moving forward and with every fiber of their being fighting for the heart of their King!...It is a life fueled by passion- a passion for God and a passion for people.
He's calling you to fight for the heart of your King. For some, doing this will be just way too barbaric, but for others, their only option will be to choose the barbarian way.
...those who are most religious will be most offended and indignant. Barbarians are not welcome among the civilized and are feared...
All I can say again is how awesome God is. Just this chapter touched on everything I have been praying and talking and thinking about since the weekend. Oh, I 'reckon' God is 'fixin' to do something big here. And I know He is calling for me to be a barbarian. I am just so thankful that I am not standing alone in this, but I know I would if I had to.
The end of the chapter said: Risking everything to live free is our only hope- humanity's only hope.
Though the way may seem hard at times, I would risk it all again and again...hmmm, maybe that is why I was so under attack today. To be honest, today was the first day that I have wanted to get on a plane and come home. I wasn't just homesick. I knew the situation I was in , my living situation, is something I can not handle and a place that could block God from really moving concerning me here. So I went into action and spoke my heart, and now the situation is truly in God's hands. May His Will be done. I also found out that my Uncle passed away today. Just ways the enemy is trying to stop God from moving, but a reminder that He is moving and preparing for something big.
'Because Jesus did not suffer and die so that we could build for ourselves havens, but so that we might expand the kingdom of His love. Because invisible kingdoms are at war for the hearts and lives of every human being who walks on the face of this earth. And times of war require barbarians who are willing to risk life itself for the freedom of others.'
Are you ready to 'unleash the untamed faith within'? If so, then join the way!
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
'Stila' Premiere
Wow, for a moment last night I felt like a celebrity because tons of cameras were talking pictures of us. Not really, it was actually of the table behind us that was full of Korean actors and musicians. For a short moment though it felt like they were on us, all those flashes drove me crazy. Praise God that I am not famous, I don't think I could handle it.
Now you are probably wondering where I was. One of my student's parent runs the 'Stila' cosmetic division in Korea. So she had invited all the teachers who teach her daughters to this premiere because they just opened this division of Estee Lauder here. It was at the Hyatt Hotel, which was very elegant and the food was great. I don't think I have ever eaten this quality of food before. It was fun and yet interesting. Everything was spoken in Korean, except three performers sang two songs each, one in Korean and the other in English.
I am glad I got a chance to step into the life of one family I teach here, but I did feel way out of my social level.
Now you are probably wondering where I was. One of my student's parent runs the 'Stila' cosmetic division in Korea. So she had invited all the teachers who teach her daughters to this premiere because they just opened this division of Estee Lauder here. It was at the Hyatt Hotel, which was very elegant and the food was great. I don't think I have ever eaten this quality of food before. It was fun and yet interesting. Everything was spoken in Korean, except three performers sang two songs each, one in Korean and the other in English.
I am glad I got a chance to step into the life of one family I teach here, but I did feel way out of my social level.
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Weekend Meeting Risen Christ
My weekend was again very great.
Friday night, after passing the test and breaking a board, I was promoted to yellow belt in Tae Kwon Do.
Saturday was not spent my usual way, but was spent hiking up 'Baegundae Mountain' in Mt. Bukhansan National Park. Well I actually rock climbed more than hiked. At least it wasn't a hike I could have done with my usual hiking partners, those Robbins' Kids. Although I am use to hiking (and walking presently a lot)- this hike kicked my butt!!
Yet, every time I am up and out in nature, I am reminded again how I love the outdoors and of course how Awesome and Great God is. Being out there brought up something in me that I have really been praying about. That prayer being not only wanting God desperately in my life, but also seeing Him in lives in action. Not just being around people believing in God, but having that belief transformed in people taking action seizing moments and meeting the Risen Christ in their daily lives (FD- like picking up their mats).
I thought once I stepped out into the World, I'd be around others who desperately wanted the same thing too.
Maybe I have just been too blessed over the past years. First, at Christ Church in Nashville. And second, with a small group of families in Denver. I met the Risen Christ in so many ways and through so many lives, yet I haven't in this place where I thought I would see it more....
That WAS until God answered my prayer, not only once, but twice this weekend.
Once, on Saturday evening, spending time talking, sharing, and praying with another teacher. I not only met Him there, but saw and experienced Him so clearly.
Second time, this morning at church, when the Pastor allowed God to change and have the worship time. I have found my church home away from home, that is for sure.
I wish I could give you more, but I don't know how to put into words how I met, saw, and experienced the Risen Christ through answered prayer and divine moments this weekend. PRAISE GOD!!
Friday night, after passing the test and breaking a board, I was promoted to yellow belt in Tae Kwon Do.
Saturday was not spent my usual way, but was spent hiking up 'Baegundae Mountain' in Mt. Bukhansan National Park. Well I actually rock climbed more than hiked. At least it wasn't a hike I could have done with my usual hiking partners, those Robbins' Kids. Although I am use to hiking (and walking presently a lot)- this hike kicked my butt!!
Yet, every time I am up and out in nature, I am reminded again how I love the outdoors and of course how Awesome and Great God is. Being out there brought up something in me that I have really been praying about. That prayer being not only wanting God desperately in my life, but also seeing Him in lives in action. Not just being around people believing in God, but having that belief transformed in people taking action seizing moments and meeting the Risen Christ in their daily lives (FD- like picking up their mats).
I thought once I stepped out into the World, I'd be around others who desperately wanted the same thing too.
Maybe I have just been too blessed over the past years. First, at Christ Church in Nashville. And second, with a small group of families in Denver. I met the Risen Christ in so many ways and through so many lives, yet I haven't in this place where I thought I would see it more....
That WAS until God answered my prayer, not only once, but twice this weekend.
Once, on Saturday evening, spending time talking, sharing, and praying with another teacher. I not only met Him there, but saw and experienced Him so clearly.
Second time, this morning at church, when the Pastor allowed God to change and have the worship time. I have found my church home away from home, that is for sure.
I wish I could give you more, but I don't know how to put into words how I met, saw, and experienced the Risen Christ through answered prayer and divine moments this weekend. PRAISE GOD!!
Friday, September 22, 2006
Oe`guk
As I was walking up the stairs to get my stuff for Tae Kwon Do and then head on over to Helena and Marsha's before going, I walked by a little girl who said 'oe`guk' about 5 times. Then she spoke really fast and a lot of Korean. The only word I recognized was 'oe`guk'. I decided to say 'Annyong Haseyo'. To my surprise she said 'Hello' and then asked me something in Korean. I was just getting ready to say 'molah yo', but she asked me what my name was in English. I told her and asked her what hers was. I then said it was nice to meet her, she said the same and then rambled on in Korean again. I then said bye and she waved. It was just really cute and fun, especially knowing what I just wrote on this blog. Time to go get my yellow belt.
Miguk or Oe`guk
'Miguk' is used for America or American and 'Oe`guk' or 'Oe`gugin' means Foreigner.
Everyone has told me that I would hear people saying 'oe`guk' or possibly 'miguk' a lot, especially children. However, I have not heard either of these words once, unless you count hearing it from the other foreigners who keep telling me I will.
Last night that all changed. As I headed out for a 3 mile walk a little girl noticed me and said something along with 'oe`guk'. Then got very excited when she realized that there were 3 of us. What made it even funnier to me was that I had just mentioned the previous night how I hadn't heard either names yet. That was after I inquired about if I would be called a 'Miguk oe`guk' or a 'Oe`guk Miguk', if I combined them both. I don't think the other foreigners I was with found this funny. But I am an American and I am a Foreigner, so doesn't that make me an American Foreigner?
Also, on our way home from the walk I past a cute old couple. The interesting thing is that the woman recognized me as I did her. I had seen this same couple on Monday and Wednesday nights at the second bus stop I wait at on the way to Tae Kwon Do. On Monday, when I first saw them I thought how cute they were together, how they interacted while sitting and waiting. She kept swinging her feet. Just seeing them made me smile and think of my own hopeful future and wondering what my husband and I would be like when we get old, wise, and gray.
On a last note, I found it interesting that the church where we have Tae Kwon Do was full of boys from the military. They were all dressed in uniforms and had their guns. We asked our 'master' about it. We were told that they do it about twice a year because of North Korea. That was all we got, still just interesting to see an army having a training session in a church.
Everyone has told me that I would hear people saying 'oe`guk' or possibly 'miguk' a lot, especially children. However, I have not heard either of these words once, unless you count hearing it from the other foreigners who keep telling me I will.
Last night that all changed. As I headed out for a 3 mile walk a little girl noticed me and said something along with 'oe`guk'. Then got very excited when she realized that there were 3 of us. What made it even funnier to me was that I had just mentioned the previous night how I hadn't heard either names yet. That was after I inquired about if I would be called a 'Miguk oe`guk' or a 'Oe`guk Miguk', if I combined them both. I don't think the other foreigners I was with found this funny. But I am an American and I am a Foreigner, so doesn't that make me an American Foreigner?
Also, on our way home from the walk I past a cute old couple. The interesting thing is that the woman recognized me as I did her. I had seen this same couple on Monday and Wednesday nights at the second bus stop I wait at on the way to Tae Kwon Do. On Monday, when I first saw them I thought how cute they were together, how they interacted while sitting and waiting. She kept swinging her feet. Just seeing them made me smile and think of my own hopeful future and wondering what my husband and I would be like when we get old, wise, and gray.
On a last note, I found it interesting that the church where we have Tae Kwon Do was full of boys from the military. They were all dressed in uniforms and had their guns. We asked our 'master' about it. We were told that they do it about twice a year because of North Korea. That was all we got, still just interesting to see an army having a training session in a church.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Observation & Movies
MY OBSERVATION: I am finding it very interesting that I notice a lot of foreign men with Korean women walking around on the streets. However, I have NOT seen a Korean man with a foreign woman at all. Wonder why this is.............Though we really tried to find this scenario over the weekend on the streets. The hunt is still on.
MOVIES: Well for the past three weekends I have seen a movie. This weekend I already mentioned was "Ben Hur", hmmm...Can still picture those blue eyes! However, the two previous ones were Korean Films on Fridays after Tae Kwon Do. The first Friday I saw "The Classic". It really lived up to its name. It was a classic love story and will most likely be my favorite Korean movie. The one I saw the week after that was, now prepare yourself for this ones title. We had no idea what the title was in Korean, but chose it because of the picture on the cover. Remember that saying "Don't judge a book by its cover", well this movie was called "The Seduction". However, "Don't let the name fool you"- it was a comedy and very similar to "How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days". It was really fun watching them and reading the English subtitles.
MOVIES: Well for the past three weekends I have seen a movie. This weekend I already mentioned was "Ben Hur", hmmm...Can still picture those blue eyes! However, the two previous ones were Korean Films on Fridays after Tae Kwon Do. The first Friday I saw "The Classic". It really lived up to its name. It was a classic love story and will most likely be my favorite Korean movie. The one I saw the week after that was, now prepare yourself for this ones title. We had no idea what the title was in Korean, but chose it because of the picture on the cover. Remember that saying "Don't judge a book by its cover", well this movie was called "The Seduction". However, "Don't let the name fool you"- it was a comedy and very similar to "How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days". It was really fun watching them and reading the English subtitles.
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Great Weekend
After my normal Saturday morning routine, I decided to get on the subway and venture out to find that cafe with the train tracks. All I knew for sure was the line I needed to get on and the stop where I needed to get off. Glauce decided to come along with me. And I am very excited to say that we found it on our own. We also found the only Starbucks in the world that is not written in English. This particular one is written in Korean and is found in Insa Dong. It was a very fun day.
Ok, I must really be unattractive or smell pretty bad. Why you ask? Nobody ever wants to sit by me on the bus or the subway, so I figure one of these statements must be true. At least I found this to be true until Sunday morning.
Glauce and I were on our way to church when all of a sudden I noticed this Korean man walk by us whom kept looking at us. Then the seat next to me and about 5 on the other side of the train became vacant at the same time. However, this man came and sat down next to me. He even bumped into my arm a few times, that was until two foreigners came on the subway. And to my surprise asked us if we were on our way to church, then asked what we were doing in Korea, etc..... The funny thing is that they were the first foreigners I have come across that were friendly. The other funny thing is that they were from Colorado and stationed at Kunsan for the next couple of months. I should mention the theory behind the man sitting next to me or at least what others who have been in Korea awhile think. He most likely thought, like many, that westerners were easy, so was probably going to try something. Wow, what a surprise he would have gotten. Guess I will never know for sure.
I have found the church I want to attend. It is Seoul International Baptist Church (SIBC). As I looked around Sunday morning I noticed people who were from all over the world, not just Americans, as some have said about the church. It was really international, gave me a sense of what God's church truly should consist of. People from all walks of life, who are different yet the same. I felt at peace and a sense of home. Plus, I should mention that it is located in the new neighborhood we are moving too, so I can walk there.
I ended my Sunday night by watching "Survivor." Yes, I get it here! And then going over to Wilson's house with some of the girls. We watched "Ben Hur." Charlton Heston really reminded me of someone I know and really made me think about him.
Just a really great weekend, filled with moments seized in Christ's abundant love.
Ok, I must really be unattractive or smell pretty bad. Why you ask? Nobody ever wants to sit by me on the bus or the subway, so I figure one of these statements must be true. At least I found this to be true until Sunday morning.
Glauce and I were on our way to church when all of a sudden I noticed this Korean man walk by us whom kept looking at us. Then the seat next to me and about 5 on the other side of the train became vacant at the same time. However, this man came and sat down next to me. He even bumped into my arm a few times, that was until two foreigners came on the subway. And to my surprise asked us if we were on our way to church, then asked what we were doing in Korea, etc..... The funny thing is that they were the first foreigners I have come across that were friendly. The other funny thing is that they were from Colorado and stationed at Kunsan for the next couple of months. I should mention the theory behind the man sitting next to me or at least what others who have been in Korea awhile think. He most likely thought, like many, that westerners were easy, so was probably going to try something. Wow, what a surprise he would have gotten. Guess I will never know for sure.
I have found the church I want to attend. It is Seoul International Baptist Church (SIBC). As I looked around Sunday morning I noticed people who were from all over the world, not just Americans, as some have said about the church. It was really international, gave me a sense of what God's church truly should consist of. People from all walks of life, who are different yet the same. I felt at peace and a sense of home. Plus, I should mention that it is located in the new neighborhood we are moving too, so I can walk there.
I ended my Sunday night by watching "Survivor." Yes, I get it here! And then going over to Wilson's house with some of the girls. We watched "Ben Hur." Charlton Heston really reminded me of someone I know and really made me think about him.
Just a really great weekend, filled with moments seized in Christ's abundant love.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
What a Bite!
Ok, the mosquitoes here could kill. I got bitten twice and the bites are HUGE! One is on the top of my foot and the other the back of my ankle. I am use to a little bite, but these are like open wounds.
Today was the first day that I did not like lunch. I can't even tell you what it was, but it was horrible. So I ate just rice today and tried hard not to itch my bites.
My class is wonderful and have the biggest hearts ever. They continue to ask and pray for Noah.
One girl came in yesterday morning in tears. I think I held her and prayed for about ten minutes. Her tears were more for the person that was mean to her, than they were for herself.
God spoke again today with "God Calling". And then through two people, He gave me things to remind myself of and say each day. They are:
Where He leads, I will follow
God LOVES my HEART, not my history
Today was the first day that I did not like lunch. I can't even tell you what it was, but it was horrible. So I ate just rice today and tried hard not to itch my bites.
My class is wonderful and have the biggest hearts ever. They continue to ask and pray for Noah.
One girl came in yesterday morning in tears. I think I held her and prayed for about ten minutes. Her tears were more for the person that was mean to her, than they were for herself.
God spoke again today with "God Calling". And then through two people, He gave me things to remind myself of and say each day. They are:
Where He leads, I will follow
God LOVES my HEART, not my history
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
God Has a Way...
God has His way of always speaking and touching our hearts just when we need Him too.
Tuesday at Worship night,after singing the song "Breathe",
This is the air I breathe, this is the air I breathe
Your holy Presence living in me
This is my daily bread, this is my daily bread
Your very Word spoken to me
And I, I'm DESPERATE for You
And I, I'm lost without You
Someone asked if we all ever thought what desperate meant in the song. And if we had ever been that desperate for God.
I have been so desperate for Him at times when I was down, but I have been just as desperate, if not more, even when things were going well. I am desperate to know Him more and to have Him be my everything. This thought was on my heart all night and when I got up, well it should be no surprise that God spoke through "God Calling":
September 13 NO OTHER NAME
My Name is the Power that turns evil aside, that summons all good to your aid. Spirits of evil flee at the sound of "Jesus." Spoken in fear, in weakness, in sorrow, in pain, it is an appeal I never fail to answer. "Jesus." Use My Name often. Think of the unending call of "Mother" made by her children. To help, to care, to decide, to appeal, "Mother." Use My Name in that same way- simply, naturally, forcefully. "Jesus." Use it not only when you need help but to express Love. Uttered aloud, or in the silence of your hearts, it will alter an atmosphere from one of discord to one of Love. It will raise the standard of talk and thought. "Jesus."
"There is none other Name under Heaven whereby you can be saved."
And of course that was not the end of it. At staff devotions Psalm 46 was read and the last two verses (10-11) stood out "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.
We talked of wanting and needing God so much that we need Him to be "our refuge and strength" (vs 1).
It all just went together as I am dealing with something and needing God as my fortress to go and rest in. Needing His strength. Truthfully, just being DESPERATE for Him every moment of every day. Exactly what I needed this day.
Tuesday at Worship night,after singing the song "Breathe",
This is the air I breathe, this is the air I breathe
Your holy Presence living in me
This is my daily bread, this is my daily bread
Your very Word spoken to me
And I, I'm DESPERATE for You
And I, I'm lost without You
Someone asked if we all ever thought what desperate meant in the song. And if we had ever been that desperate for God.
I have been so desperate for Him at times when I was down, but I have been just as desperate, if not more, even when things were going well. I am desperate to know Him more and to have Him be my everything. This thought was on my heart all night and when I got up, well it should be no surprise that God spoke through "God Calling":
September 13 NO OTHER NAME
My Name is the Power that turns evil aside, that summons all good to your aid. Spirits of evil flee at the sound of "Jesus." Spoken in fear, in weakness, in sorrow, in pain, it is an appeal I never fail to answer. "Jesus." Use My Name often. Think of the unending call of "Mother" made by her children. To help, to care, to decide, to appeal, "Mother." Use My Name in that same way- simply, naturally, forcefully. "Jesus." Use it not only when you need help but to express Love. Uttered aloud, or in the silence of your hearts, it will alter an atmosphere from one of discord to one of Love. It will raise the standard of talk and thought. "Jesus."
"There is none other Name under Heaven whereby you can be saved."
And of course that was not the end of it. At staff devotions Psalm 46 was read and the last two verses (10-11) stood out "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.
We talked of wanting and needing God so much that we need Him to be "our refuge and strength" (vs 1).
It all just went together as I am dealing with something and needing God as my fortress to go and rest in. Needing His strength. Truthfully, just being DESPERATE for Him every moment of every day. Exactly what I needed this day.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Hello, Hi, or Annyong Haseyo?
In the past week, every day I have gone somewhere kids have been saying hello and hi. Now this is probably the only English some of them know but it has been interesting.
It all started a week ago when I went and opened up a checking account. That was actually fun in itself. Praise God someone was with me who could speak Korean.
On my way home I walked by four teenage girls. As I walked by they said Hi! Now I hesitated....do I say hello back, hi back, or "annyong haseyo"? I choose to speak English, since that was really what they wanted. We had a little exchange and then after I had past I still heard them talking about it and repeating our short conversation. It was very funny to hear them.
I then walked by two more girls, almost the same thing happened. This time however, the girl knew a little more English and asked where I was from. And said she was sorry for bothering me. I let her know that it was no bother, but my pleasure to talk to her. I made her smile when I attempted to say bye in Korean.
Also there are two little boys that I see all the time around the apartment building. These two always smile at me, or at least look. So one day I decided to say "annyong haseyo", they began giggling and as they got on the elevator I heard them say "ajumoni". Which is a polite way to say older women, kind of like in referring to an aunt. But it also means a married women, and trust me you don't want to cross an "ajumoni". I am actually more like an "agashi". At my age I should be the first, but since I look younger and am not married, I am more like the second. I am not for sure how I should have taken this, but hay, these little ones where maybe 4 years old. Just made smile.
One night a bunch of boys were playing and they said Hi, but of course no matter what form of this I use and whether or not it is English or Korean, still gets them amused. They always giggle and I hear them talking about it after I pass.
Last night on the way home as I walked by the park, a little girl said hi. So I said it back and it amused the women who was walking her bike next to me.
On Saturday, us girls saw one of my little boys I see all the time out by himself (which is not unusual to see here), but he only had a t-shirt on. Yes, you could see some little parts that in that setting and place you should not be seeing.
I am going to miss these cute little ones when we move to the new neighborhood. Hopefully, there will be more there to get to know. I still need to figure out if my speaking English or Korean is funnier to them!!
It all started a week ago when I went and opened up a checking account. That was actually fun in itself. Praise God someone was with me who could speak Korean.
On my way home I walked by four teenage girls. As I walked by they said Hi! Now I hesitated....do I say hello back, hi back, or "annyong haseyo"? I choose to speak English, since that was really what they wanted. We had a little exchange and then after I had past I still heard them talking about it and repeating our short conversation. It was very funny to hear them.
I then walked by two more girls, almost the same thing happened. This time however, the girl knew a little more English and asked where I was from. And said she was sorry for bothering me. I let her know that it was no bother, but my pleasure to talk to her. I made her smile when I attempted to say bye in Korean.
Also there are two little boys that I see all the time around the apartment building. These two always smile at me, or at least look. So one day I decided to say "annyong haseyo", they began giggling and as they got on the elevator I heard them say "ajumoni". Which is a polite way to say older women, kind of like in referring to an aunt. But it also means a married women, and trust me you don't want to cross an "ajumoni". I am actually more like an "agashi". At my age I should be the first, but since I look younger and am not married, I am more like the second. I am not for sure how I should have taken this, but hay, these little ones where maybe 4 years old. Just made smile.
One night a bunch of boys were playing and they said Hi, but of course no matter what form of this I use and whether or not it is English or Korean, still gets them amused. They always giggle and I hear them talking about it after I pass.
Last night on the way home as I walked by the park, a little girl said hi. So I said it back and it amused the women who was walking her bike next to me.
On Saturday, us girls saw one of my little boys I see all the time out by himself (which is not unusual to see here), but he only had a t-shirt on. Yes, you could see some little parts that in that setting and place you should not be seeing.
I am going to miss these cute little ones when we move to the new neighborhood. Hopefully, there will be more there to get to know. I still need to figure out if my speaking English or Korean is funnier to them!!
Monday, September 11, 2006
Psalm 139
I came in this morning and had planned on writing about my weekend. However, at staff devotions we read part of Psalm 139. We read verses 9-16, but focused on the following:
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
Shortly after devotions I read all of Psalm 139 and then went and read the entry on Saturday, September 9, 2006 on this blog Noahsteven.blogspot.com
I can't write anything else. It took me back to "God Calling" on September 6: Learning and loving and working, theirs is a life of happiness and progress. They live to serve, and serve they truly do. They serve Me and those they love. Ceaselessly they serve.
I love that we get to serve a loving and amazing God. If you can serve, go read about Noah and his family, and PRAY!!
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
Shortly after devotions I read all of Psalm 139 and then went and read the entry on Saturday, September 9, 2006 on this blog Noahsteven.blogspot.com
I can't write anything else. It took me back to "God Calling" on September 6: Learning and loving and working, theirs is a life of happiness and progress. They live to serve, and serve they truly do. They serve Me and those they love. Ceaselessly they serve.
I love that we get to serve a loving and amazing God. If you can serve, go read about Noah and his family, and PRAY!!
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Why HOPE when.......
Last night, my flesh wondered 'Why should I HOPE, each time I do I feel let down or disappointed'. See the apartment I was hoping for is going to the other single girls (and they don't really want it or to move).
For a short while my flesh took over and thought I should know by now NOT to HOPE for things because what I hope for NEVER seems to come to be. Many who know me closely know all the areas and times I am thinking about right now. My flesh moment wasn't about the apartment really at all. I KNOW God has a bigger and better plan in store. I know with Him everything will fall into place just like it already has. Hasn't He provided for the things back home in Colorado?; My condo, my car, etc..... I remind myself of this, but my flesh still says "WHY DO I CONTINUE TO HOPE?" So I spent some time with God.
I recalled the verses from class that day, which were from Philippians:
4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
4:11 I am not saying this because I am in Need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstance.
4:13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
4:19 And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
I hadn't read Monday's or Tuesday's devotion yet, so I went to them next. From "God Calling" I read:
September 4 Our God is our supply.
Look to Me for all..Rely on Me for all. Drop those burdens, and then, singing and free, you can go on your way rejoicing. Encumbered with them you will fall. Drop them at My Feet, knowing surely that I will lift them and deal with each one as is truly best.
September 5 Progress is the Law of Heaven....Tomorrow be stronger, braver, more loving than you have been today. The Law of Progress gives a meaning, a purpose to life.
And then, as I was turning to September 5th's in "Teach Me to Pray", I flipped by something I had written on a devotional back on March 9. The scripture reference was Mark 11:24 (NLT) "You can pray for anything and if you believe, you will have it."
I read the title and what I had underlined first:
PERSISTENCE IN PRAYER
At one time it is quiet; at another, bold. At one point it waits in patience, but at another, it claims at once what it desires.
Then I read what I wrote:
2006, Why is mine always waiting in Patience? How much longer must I wait Lord?
Then,September 5: Take time to pray and let Christ's wonderful promise of a new life take possession of your heart. Be content with nothing less than full salvation- Christ living in you, and you living in Christ.
Wow, even though it happens rather frequently, I still find it amazing how my flesh and my heart may be dealing with something and God puts His voice in words and Scripture. He talks and reminds me of exactly what I know to be true and truly believe in my heart, but my flesh tends to forget.
I know that it is my WANTS that NEVER SEEM to come to be, yet I do know that GOD has ALWAYS supplied all my NEEDS.
"Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purposes that prevail." Proverbs 19:21
For a short while my flesh took over and thought I should know by now NOT to HOPE for things because what I hope for NEVER seems to come to be. Many who know me closely know all the areas and times I am thinking about right now. My flesh moment wasn't about the apartment really at all. I KNOW God has a bigger and better plan in store. I know with Him everything will fall into place just like it already has. Hasn't He provided for the things back home in Colorado?; My condo, my car, etc..... I remind myself of this, but my flesh still says "WHY DO I CONTINUE TO HOPE?" So I spent some time with God.
I recalled the verses from class that day, which were from Philippians:
4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
4:11 I am not saying this because I am in Need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstance.
4:13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
4:19 And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
I hadn't read Monday's or Tuesday's devotion yet, so I went to them next. From "God Calling" I read:
September 4 Our God is our supply.
Look to Me for all..Rely on Me for all. Drop those burdens, and then, singing and free, you can go on your way rejoicing. Encumbered with them you will fall. Drop them at My Feet, knowing surely that I will lift them and deal with each one as is truly best.
September 5 Progress is the Law of Heaven....Tomorrow be stronger, braver, more loving than you have been today. The Law of Progress gives a meaning, a purpose to life.
And then, as I was turning to September 5th's in "Teach Me to Pray", I flipped by something I had written on a devotional back on March 9. The scripture reference was Mark 11:24 (NLT) "You can pray for anything and if you believe, you will have it."
I read the title and what I had underlined first:
PERSISTENCE IN PRAYER
At one time it is quiet; at another, bold. At one point it waits in patience, but at another, it claims at once what it desires.
Then I read what I wrote:
2006, Why is mine always waiting in Patience? How much longer must I wait Lord?
Then,September 5: Take time to pray and let Christ's wonderful promise of a new life take possession of your heart. Be content with nothing less than full salvation- Christ living in you, and you living in Christ.
Wow, even though it happens rather frequently, I still find it amazing how my flesh and my heart may be dealing with something and God puts His voice in words and Scripture. He talks and reminds me of exactly what I know to be true and truly believe in my heart, but my flesh tends to forget.
I know that it is my WANTS that NEVER SEEM to come to be, yet I do know that GOD has ALWAYS supplied all my NEEDS.
"Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purposes that prevail." Proverbs 19:21
Monday, September 04, 2006
Connectedness
This morning God spoke in His usual way to me, by repeating or connecting something. In staff devotions we read the same scripture that was used in church yesterday. Ephesians 6:1-9, today was the emphasis of verse 7 "Serve whole-heartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men,"
Before that I read some emails from friends and I think maybe some have gotten the wrong impression that I am disappointed that I came. I am not disappointed at all that I came to Korea. Matter of fact I am very excited about being here and all that God has in store for me. The hardest part is being someone who loves community, who loves being connected to others and knowing here that will all come in time. But mostly, I have felt very disconnected from those I left back in the States, that has been the disappointment I think others were sensing, but not about coming.
Interesting again was that another teacher, Wilson, shared a card during devotions that her son sent. I felt in my heart that God was speaking to me about being connected. The card said:
There's a reason why
birds fly in flocks,
flowers grow in bunches,
lions live in prides,
and whales swim in pods.
There's an interconnectedness
to all of nature,
from the tiniest of organisms
to the entire human race...
a need to know
we're not alone,
and a desire to reach out
and let others know
they're in our thoughts....
like you are in mine.
I am glad Wilson shared this with us. I know it was from God and touched my heart. I just feel disconnected because I miss and care for everyone so much.
Later today, I received another email where a friend shared this; The sermon today was on the rhythm of life (to everything there is a season...) and Sabbath. The message was that work and Sabbath have to go together for one without the other makes the other one less significant. Just made me think about the title again- CONNECTEDNESS.
Before that I read some emails from friends and I think maybe some have gotten the wrong impression that I am disappointed that I came. I am not disappointed at all that I came to Korea. Matter of fact I am very excited about being here and all that God has in store for me. The hardest part is being someone who loves community, who loves being connected to others and knowing here that will all come in time. But mostly, I have felt very disconnected from those I left back in the States, that has been the disappointment I think others were sensing, but not about coming.
Interesting again was that another teacher, Wilson, shared a card during devotions that her son sent. I felt in my heart that God was speaking to me about being connected. The card said:
There's a reason why
birds fly in flocks,
flowers grow in bunches,
lions live in prides,
and whales swim in pods.
There's an interconnectedness
to all of nature,
from the tiniest of organisms
to the entire human race...
a need to know
we're not alone,
and a desire to reach out
and let others know
they're in our thoughts....
like you are in mine.
I am glad Wilson shared this with us. I know it was from God and touched my heart. I just feel disconnected because I miss and care for everyone so much.
Later today, I received another email where a friend shared this; The sermon today was on the rhythm of life (to everything there is a season...) and Sabbath. The message was that work and Sabbath have to go together for one without the other makes the other one less significant. Just made me think about the title again- CONNECTEDNESS.
Sunday, September 03, 2006
More Prayer and Hope
Sunday at church the pastor started by stating the number of people who needed prayer, like the man just finding out he had liver cancer or the grieving family who just lost their 7 day old baby boy. God was still speaking to me on prayer. Over the weekend, I read the following in my devotional by Andrew Murray:
SEPTEMBER 2
“…As we pray let us be willing to accept our place with Him- crucified to the world, to sin and to self. It means a readiness to follow Him at any cost. It means a simple, wholehearted acceptance of Christ as Lord and Master and a surrender of our heart and life to Him.”
SEPTEMBER 3
“…In the quietness of prayer let us believe that a simple, determined surrender of our whole will to God’s promise will indeed bring the heart-cleansing we need.”
After church, I became the tour guide in a way for the new teacher, Glauce, from Brazil. Praise God, I am not the only teacher now who has never been to Korea before.
Instead of just going home some teachers were going to take us to the area I know in Itaewon, but their plans changed. Glauce and I felt like being adventurous so they gave us directions to get the bus we would need to get there. After getting there, I knew how to get home since I did it the week before. However, we could not find the bus number they told us too. So we were going to just go back to the subway and see if I could get us there that way (though a little longer, but we didn’t have anywhere to be). On our way back Glauce stopped a Korean women and asked if she knew English. She did, but didn’t know the bus either. She and her husband ended up being from church and told us to get in their car and they would take us. Wow, what a blessing! However, this became a God ordained encounter. They told us to find them next week at church so they could introduce us to the younger Koreans they knew. And they actually live in the neighborhood where the new school is located, and hopefully where we’ll be living. God is good and blesses in the most amazing ways when you least expect it.
Glauce and I had lunch at the place I knew and talked about how we got to Korea and a lot about God. We then walked the streets for awhile, though today the thing that shocked me the most was the lack of friendliness from other foreigners. We would smile when someone else like us past by, but they did not smile back but rather rudely looked away. I found this to be heartbreaking but an interesting observation in that being in a foreign country I would definitely want to be friendly with others who were a foreigner like me. Korean’s are much friendlier.
We, me who has been here only a month and she, Glauce, only a day, also decided to go and walk up by where the new location for school will be to see if we could find it. We were also going to find her apartment. She already has one over there, but will be staying with Gretchen and I this next month so she does not have to commute being new to the country. The hopeful part is that she mentioned Mr. Song pointed out two apartments he said he signed leases for on Saturday. The one closes to hers she said he mentioned the girls (as in Gretchen and I) would be living. This may be true in the fact that the other apartment he signed for is for Ben and Norma. Norma had gone with Mr. Song on Friday to look at them and he kept mentioning the other one for us as well. That would be great because it is walking distance to school and will be right between Glauce’s and the Sullivan’s villas. Gretchen and I are praying really hard. We ended up not going by her apartment or the one that may possibly be my new one because the hills were very steep and we didn’t want to walk down another hill and then back up since the hill we already walked up was pretty steep and it was getting late. We were afraid some others might be worried why we weren’t back yet too.
As we walked up the hill and then were going back down, I as getting very excited about the character this neighborhood has. Yes, it is by Itaewon (a place I being American and blonde will not want to be after dark on any given night) and by the military base with so many foreigners around. But it has character and is in the heart of the city, yet out by itself in a way. I can’t wait for October to get here so I can really get settled in. I just really hope that the hope of moving right away to that location that Norma and Glauce put in my heart is what will really happen. It is in God’s hands.
God so continues to bless even with my selfishness lately and doubt. Maybe that is because He really knows me and knows that more than anything I want to be where He is and where He wants me.
SEPTEMBER 2
“…As we pray let us be willing to accept our place with Him- crucified to the world, to sin and to self. It means a readiness to follow Him at any cost. It means a simple, wholehearted acceptance of Christ as Lord and Master and a surrender of our heart and life to Him.”
SEPTEMBER 3
“…In the quietness of prayer let us believe that a simple, determined surrender of our whole will to God’s promise will indeed bring the heart-cleansing we need.”
After church, I became the tour guide in a way for the new teacher, Glauce, from Brazil. Praise God, I am not the only teacher now who has never been to Korea before.
Instead of just going home some teachers were going to take us to the area I know in Itaewon, but their plans changed. Glauce and I felt like being adventurous so they gave us directions to get the bus we would need to get there. After getting there, I knew how to get home since I did it the week before. However, we could not find the bus number they told us too. So we were going to just go back to the subway and see if I could get us there that way (though a little longer, but we didn’t have anywhere to be). On our way back Glauce stopped a Korean women and asked if she knew English. She did, but didn’t know the bus either. She and her husband ended up being from church and told us to get in their car and they would take us. Wow, what a blessing! However, this became a God ordained encounter. They told us to find them next week at church so they could introduce us to the younger Koreans they knew. And they actually live in the neighborhood where the new school is located, and hopefully where we’ll be living. God is good and blesses in the most amazing ways when you least expect it.
Glauce and I had lunch at the place I knew and talked about how we got to Korea and a lot about God. We then walked the streets for awhile, though today the thing that shocked me the most was the lack of friendliness from other foreigners. We would smile when someone else like us past by, but they did not smile back but rather rudely looked away. I found this to be heartbreaking but an interesting observation in that being in a foreign country I would definitely want to be friendly with others who were a foreigner like me. Korean’s are much friendlier.
We, me who has been here only a month and she, Glauce, only a day, also decided to go and walk up by where the new location for school will be to see if we could find it. We were also going to find her apartment. She already has one over there, but will be staying with Gretchen and I this next month so she does not have to commute being new to the country. The hopeful part is that she mentioned Mr. Song pointed out two apartments he said he signed leases for on Saturday. The one closes to hers she said he mentioned the girls (as in Gretchen and I) would be living. This may be true in the fact that the other apartment he signed for is for Ben and Norma. Norma had gone with Mr. Song on Friday to look at them and he kept mentioning the other one for us as well. That would be great because it is walking distance to school and will be right between Glauce’s and the Sullivan’s villas. Gretchen and I are praying really hard. We ended up not going by her apartment or the one that may possibly be my new one because the hills were very steep and we didn’t want to walk down another hill and then back up since the hill we already walked up was pretty steep and it was getting late. We were afraid some others might be worried why we weren’t back yet too.
As we walked up the hill and then were going back down, I as getting very excited about the character this neighborhood has. Yes, it is by Itaewon (a place I being American and blonde will not want to be after dark on any given night) and by the military base with so many foreigners around. But it has character and is in the heart of the city, yet out by itself in a way. I can’t wait for October to get here so I can really get settled in. I just really hope that the hope of moving right away to that location that Norma and Glauce put in my heart is what will really happen. It is in God’s hands.
God so continues to bless even with my selfishness lately and doubt. Maybe that is because He really knows me and knows that more than anything I want to be where He is and where He wants me.
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Prayer
Wednesday I woke up in a bad mood. This was strange since I had times of fellowship both Monday and Tuesday nights. My mood did not end with my wake up. One thing after another went wrong and with my lack of connection with people lately, it seemed even harder. I was fighting hard to change my mood, but my class made it even worse.
After morning break outside I told my class to go in to our room. Three of the four chose to act like they were in third grade and went to their old room and with their old teacher. However, the one who doesn't even let me breathe (she is always by my side and Never with the rest of the class-I am struggling with this) was with me.
I didn't bother to go find the others for I knew where they were at, so I began doing our Language/English lesson. The others came in and began interrupting. I took the points away that they had earned and asked where they had been. They answered and then I had asked if they had permission to go. I then proceeded to say that I knew they loved their teacher, Mrs. Nickel, from last year. Heck, I do too. However, I was now their teacher and they were in 4th grade not 3rd grade any more. I told them I was hurt and it was time that we became the 4th grade class at CCS.
The day didn’t get much better and I haven’t really heard from anyone in a while. Tae Kwon Do was good though because I was able to let a lot of my emotions out.
I reminded myself how important prayer was and I knew I needed to pray. Pray for my class and then for others. I was being pretty selfish and needed to pray for others.
I woke up Thursday to read in “God Calling” by AJ Russell:
August 31 PRAY AND DENY
“How be it this kind goeth no out but by prayer and fasting” Matthew 17:21
You must live a life of communion and prayer if you are to save others.
Take My Words as a command to you. “By prayer and fasting.”
Pray and deny yourself, and you will be used marvelously to save and help others.
Then at staff devotions, Mr. Nickel shared from Philippians 4:4-9. These two parts (from verses 6 and 9) really hit my heart: “….in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God…..Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me –put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”
God then allowed many things that need to be prayed for to come into my day.
For instance;
-Noah and his family, you can read about them at http://noahsteven.blogspot.com
-Lisa, friend from high school, had breast cancer a couple of years ago. Went into remission, but now has a tumor on her brain and was given about a week to live. She has a young son.
-Noi, a friend of a friend, in Thailand whom also was given only a few months to live.
-Lloyd, a friend of a fellow teacher, the doctors don’t know what is wrong so they are making him leave Korea and sending him back to Canada.
-Another friend who is raising children alone now and who’s ex-husband is making it very difficult.
I could go on and on, but it all just made me realize that I need to pray and not think about my little struggle with my class (which by the way, they came together as a class on Thursday thanks to prayer and it was even better Friday.) or to think about feeling alone and not communicating with others for so long.
I need to communicate with God, “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7
After morning break outside I told my class to go in to our room. Three of the four chose to act like they were in third grade and went to their old room and with their old teacher. However, the one who doesn't even let me breathe (she is always by my side and Never with the rest of the class-I am struggling with this) was with me.
I didn't bother to go find the others for I knew where they were at, so I began doing our Language/English lesson. The others came in and began interrupting. I took the points away that they had earned and asked where they had been. They answered and then I had asked if they had permission to go. I then proceeded to say that I knew they loved their teacher, Mrs. Nickel, from last year. Heck, I do too. However, I was now their teacher and they were in 4th grade not 3rd grade any more. I told them I was hurt and it was time that we became the 4th grade class at CCS.
The day didn’t get much better and I haven’t really heard from anyone in a while. Tae Kwon Do was good though because I was able to let a lot of my emotions out.
I reminded myself how important prayer was and I knew I needed to pray. Pray for my class and then for others. I was being pretty selfish and needed to pray for others.
I woke up Thursday to read in “God Calling” by AJ Russell:
August 31 PRAY AND DENY
“How be it this kind goeth no out but by prayer and fasting” Matthew 17:21
You must live a life of communion and prayer if you are to save others.
Take My Words as a command to you. “By prayer and fasting.”
Pray and deny yourself, and you will be used marvelously to save and help others.
Then at staff devotions, Mr. Nickel shared from Philippians 4:4-9. These two parts (from verses 6 and 9) really hit my heart: “….in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God…..Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me –put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”
God then allowed many things that need to be prayed for to come into my day.
For instance;
-Noah and his family, you can read about them at http://noahsteven.blogspot.com
-Lisa, friend from high school, had breast cancer a couple of years ago. Went into remission, but now has a tumor on her brain and was given about a week to live. She has a young son.
-Noi, a friend of a friend, in Thailand whom also was given only a few months to live.
-Lloyd, a friend of a fellow teacher, the doctors don’t know what is wrong so they are making him leave Korea and sending him back to Canada.
-Another friend who is raising children alone now and who’s ex-husband is making it very difficult.
I could go on and on, but it all just made me realize that I need to pray and not think about my little struggle with my class (which by the way, they came together as a class on Thursday thanks to prayer and it was even better Friday.) or to think about feeling alone and not communicating with others for so long.
I need to communicate with God, “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)