Monday, December 30, 2013

THE HARVEST LESSON # 21


THE HARVEST - WEEK 5 WOG JOURNEY

Question - Why do we garden? 
Answer = Because of the harvest 


"The harvest is a reminder of the cycle we call life." 
The harvest is a also a surety of the planting, nurturing, pruning and watering of the Gardener.

Genesis 8:22
While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.

We must endure the pruning because....


TODAY'S FOCUS:  HARVEST TIME IS COMING

As you reflect on the coming final harvest of believers express...

  • What are your expectation of the harvest?
  • What are you enduring now that makes you anxious for the harvest?
  • What are you longing for the harvest to bring and end to?
  • What are you doing to bring others into the harvest with you?

Today I encourage you not to be afraid of the process of your growing in grace journey. Endure the pruning; be encouraged to know that God is with you every step of the journey.  You are planted in love, nurtured by grace, pruned with His mercy, watered by His spirit and your harvest will be in joy!  HALLELUJAH!

Be confident that God will gather up His harvest - BE THERE!

Keep the Faith!

GOD BLESS!


Virtuous Jewel

Thursday, December 26, 2013

FOUNTAIN OF LIFE #19

Garden Fountain

"The quiet bubbling of a garden fountain adds peaceful tranquility to any garden setting."

There are various types and shapes of fountains, but each produces its own unique sound.  Some maybe gentle, fierce or melodious.  

As we read throughout today's scripture and other scriptures we we know that in our Gardener is the fountain of life.  I also reflect on the old hymn, There is a Fountain filled with Blood that flows from Emmanuel's vein... 

God's love and mercy flows from that fountain through the power of the Holy Spirit.  His grace and mercy splashes over us daily even when we do not deserve it!

TODAY'S FOCUS: "The Fountain of Eternal Life

  1. It Never runs dry
  2. It pours in continual streams
  3. It pours down blessings
  4. It deepens your relationship with Jesus
Let's Discuss the following:
  • Think about the first time the fountain of God's grace splashed mercy down on you and can you share the experience so others can be encouraged?
  • How is the spirit currently refreshing you?
  • What are the benefits of the fountain?  
  • How can you keep the fountain consistent?

Remember the consistent flow of the fountain will reflect growth as you stay watered by His spirit.


God Bless and KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel


Wednesday, December 25, 2013

COMBO DEVOTION 17 & 18

SOAKING RAIN

Our WOG devotion says, "It's a gardener's dream - a slow, steady, soaking rain", this is the kind of rain that washes off the dust, and any other thing from off the leaf and petal making our plant colors more vibrant and beautiful.

Meditate on Titus 3:5-6 and imagine for a moment the cool water drops of mercy falling over you steadily soaking you!  

It should make you smile, dance and rejoice - DO SO NOW!

Now Consider steady droplets seeping underground to your roots throughout the day.  

TODAY'S FOCUS - Let's discuss ways that your Gardner can refresh you:


  • How would you express or describe a steady soaking rain from your Gardener?
  • List some ways that you can refresh the Holy Spirit and receive steady droplets throughout the day? 

Remember to ask the Lord to help you to adapt new "watering methods" to keep His Spirit seeping into you throughout the day.  As droplets seep throughout the day, it will help keep your roots hydrated and you will bloom into a more luscious and healthier plant.  

God Bless - KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel

Monday, December 23, 2013

WATERED BY THE SPIRIT - WOG DAY 16

SPIRITUAL DROUGHTS

Many gardeners have expressed the effects droughts (lack of water) have on their gardens.  The scorching of heat and dry weather conditions make them pray and cry out for rain.

Spiritual Droughts are even more devastating especially when the soul is cracked with the scorching heat of disappointment, hurt, health issues, grief and even from our hunger for God.  
These things make our spirit shrivel from lack of watering.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  How's the Weather in Your Garden?

  • Have you ever survived a spiritual drought?   
  • Are you presently in a drought now?
If you have survived, please share the experience and how you were able to get out to help someone who is going through right now. What would you advise others to do to avoid the dry weather conditions.

Those who are presently in a spiritual drought now can you can express what caused your drought or perhaps what contributed to your dry conditions?  

Both groups make a list of things that:
  1. Keep your soul in drought
  2. Keep the weather conditions fair and balance in your garden.
Read Isaiah 44:1-8 and allow God's Holy Spirit to pour floods of water upon any dry ground of your garden so your seeds can grow and spring up as willows by the water courses.  

God Bless and remember to Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel



Wednesday, December 18, 2013

DAY 13 - GROW IN GRACE

GROWING IN GOD'S KNOWLEDGE

But grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 
1 Peter 3:18

Staying in God's word allows you to be equipped for the challenges ahead.  It also shows your wrong doings and nourishes your relationship with Him so you can truly grow in grace. 

I ASK:
Do you enjoy His pruning? 
Do you seek Him less when life is blooming and more when you are faced with pests of your garden?

TODAY'S FOCUS:  God prunes us in the "GOOD" or "BAD" times.

Let's describe a time when God pruned you.... 
  • In a good time - what was the result?
  • In a bad time - What was the circumstances?

Remember that God wants us to spend time with Him everyday not just when disaster strikes but in every circumstance of our life.  

GOD BLESS - KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

SPIRITUAL DEADWOOD - DAY 12


HACK AWAY AT SPIRITUAL DEADWOOD 

Are you feeling the pains of God's pruning?
Do you put up a good show on the outside but inside you feel suffocated or even dead? 

Today's devotion speaks about that evergreen hedges and other great looks shrubs need adequate light and air both inside and out in order to grow and thrive. Without it plants can wither or even die. Thinning the interior branches (pruning) helps to bring back health and vitality. 

TODAY'S FOCUS:  Dead on the Inside Hedges - WHAT'S CHOKING YOUR "SON LIGHT"?

Like the plants we too need to thin out internally the things that are choking us and allow God's light and air to prune us so we can grow.  How willing are you to share... Unlike yesterday's blog, let's discuss what's there now.


  • What spiritual deadwood that needs to be hacked away by our Lord the Gardener?
  • What steps or activity is necessary to hack it away and permanently prune it off?
  • Do you know someone who needs your help in removing spiritual deadwood?
  • What are your plans to help?
Ouch!! My my my Let's keep it real!

May God bless you as you discover the cool breeze of The Holy Spirit to refresh and encourage you to grow stronger in God's grace.

Stay faithful - KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel

Monday, December 16, 2013

PRUNED WITH MERCY - DAY ELEVEN

Purpose Of Pruning

Oh the pain of pruning - clipping and chipping away at the dry leaves, (habits, character and attitude that's unlike Christ) 
An old song comes to mind... 
Anything that brings you closer to Jesus is good for you.....
If your trials are bringing you closer to Jesus, just praise His name..
The word also says.. No trials for the present time seems good but they work for good.  So with pruning.  It may appear that the flowers are being clipped or the tree is being damage.  But it's the pruning that makes and keeps it healthy and causes the growth.  As the plants need pruning so our lives need the pruning (testing) to bring God's goodness to the surface.

TODAY'S FOCUS: Pruning is good for Christians

  • How has God used His pruning clippers on you?
  • How has it helped you bloom?
Remember pruning brings something productive in us and a deeper walk and relationship with Jesus.

God Bless
Virtuous Jewel








Friday, December 13, 2013

GOD'S CONTINUAL GRACE - DAY 10


HEN AND CHICKS

Insert By Jon VanZile explains the succulent Sempervivum plant.  They earned their popular name “hen and chicks” from their growth habit. The mother plant, or hen, sends off numerous offsets, which will cluster around her base like chicks. 

(You can read full details on line for re-potting etc..)

TODAY'S FOCUS: GROWER'S TIPS

Sempervivum are not difficult to grow, provided they are not waterlogged and killed from excess watering. They can be easily grown outdoors and in containers, and they earned the name “houseleeks” from their tendency to root on the roofs of houses. After the mother plant flowers, it will naturally die, but by this time, the plant has likely produced many offsets that will continue to grow. 

We are like the Sempervivum (Hen and Chicks) plant. As we share God's grace to others our offsets will grow to the next and the next and many generations. 

ARE WE FORMING CLOUDS OF WITNESSES IN THIS GENERATION? How?

Today let's discuss...
  • Name three (3) people who have shared God's grace with you?  
  • List some ways you can thank them or Honor their memory
  • Can you think of two or three people you can encourage today with the Good News of God's grace? 
Remember, God's grace has the ability to reproduce.  Let's find a way to do it. Don't over-water but pour out God's love so it can be continual from generation to generation nurturing faith through God's powerful word.

Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

 

Thursday, December 12, 2013

POSITIONING IS CRITICAL

RESPECTING THE POWER OF THE sun/SON

Positioning is indeed critical for our plants to survive and grow right.  
You cannot put a plant that requires shade in the sun nor can you put a plant that needs sunlight in a shady place.  Each must be positioned where it can grow and not where we feel we want them.  We stand the risk of losing them if we do not follow the instructions for its type.

For Today's Focus let's talk on Day 9 devotion a little......

It is said...
An experienced gardener appreciates and respects the power of the sun.  
An experienced Christian appreciates the power of the Son.  

Our scripture reference talks about how to be position well by abiding in the Vine.  John 15:4

Let discuss....  KEEP IT REAL
  • Can you remember a time in your faith walk when you didn't want to follow or didn't follow God's directions for "Son Light"?
  • What can you encourage someone with today that will help them stay in the "Son Shine"

Remember, when we see our misplaced priorities, our rebellion, and our willfulness, and confess theses sins, His grace welcomes us back into the "Son Shine" again.  

THANK YOU JESUS - HALLELUJAH!  

KEEP THE FAITH

Virtuous Jewel

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

UNIQUE SPECIES - DAY 7

CENTURY PLANT

"Century Plant grows v-e-r-y s-l-o-w-l-y... 
Eventually this succulent will form large, pointed leaves, but Century Plants bloom only once every 30 or 40 years!"


There are times you may feel that your seed is taking long to sprout but just know that you are unique species. You are not weeds that are common and just grow everywhere. You develop roots like the bamboo but when you come out, nurtured by grace, you grow into a tall and useful tree.
Today I ask that you be patient. In the right season and at the right time the God of all grace will bring you into full bloom. 

TODAY'S FOCUS:  Describe what God's grace means to you.

Write the word GRACE vertically along the left side of your daily journal or a piece of paper. Make an acrostic (poem or song) using each letter of the word.  Personalize it to you.  

Remember it may seem that your seed may not be shooting.  But be patient see if it needs watering with the word or if it needs to be nurtured with a little sunlight.  Continue to grow in grace and in God's knowledge.  

GOD BLESS AND KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel


Monday, December 9, 2013

NURTURED by GRACE

NURTURED by GRACE.... DAY 6

Grace is poured into thy lips; therefore God hath blessed thee for ever.  Psalm 45:2

WE ARE HIS WORKMANSHIP

As our second week journey begins our devotion states that we are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.  Ephesians 2:10

Just as a gardener carefully chooses individual plants for a garden, God has handpicked you to be His own work of art.  

TODAY'S FOCUS: BLOOMING IN GRACE

God has planted us together with other believers to create a landscape work of art. Let's discuss...

  • How can you bloom in grace today?
  • How can you help create a landscape that honors God with other flowers of God?

Today, let's thank the Lord for other fellow believers.
Remember he planted each of us in His Garden of Grace to Bloom to become his work of art.  
Let's create a landscape that honors our Lord and bring Him glory!

GOD BLESS!


Virtuous Jewel

Thursday, December 5, 2013

DAY 4 - ROOT BOUND?

TANGLED AND TRAPPED

Let's Get to the Bottom of the Roots
Our devotional journal says today, "sometimes the only way to get to discern the truth is to get to the bottom of it all - the roots."

We struggle through our day and have difficulty sometimes staying focus and in many instances our growth is not reflected in our walk.  We may need to LOOK DEEP into our roots.  

What is our devotional life like?
What are we hiding beneath our beautiful parading outfits and smiles?
Or.......

TODAY'S FOCUS:  Do You Need to Be Replanted?

CHECK YOUR ROOTS
  • Are you tangled up in traditions, family and other personal daily routines that stunt your growth? Which ones
  • Are you engaged in thoughts that are not in line with what God say's about you?  What are they
  • Do you allow people to dictate your growth or do you rely on the Holy Spirit? Who/What
Here's the biggie...........
  • ARE YOU READY TO BE REPLANTED?    
Check your roots and see if they are tangled up and if you need to be planted in a bigger pot.  

The Gardner Jesus wants to help you TODAY!
Allow His Holy Spirit to speak to your spirit as you read Colossians 2: 6-7.  

Express yourself if you are feeling a little root bound or would like to offer some suggestions to others who are root bound.

GOD BLESS & KEEP THE FAITH!!

Virtuous Jewel


Wednesday, December 4, 2013

DAY 3 - REACH, GRAB SEEDS, SCATTER

Gardeners and Farmers

Read Matthew 13:1-23 and discover the eternal significance of the seeds sown in the parable of the sower.  

Today's Focus:  Reflecting on Verse 23 of the parable ask....

  1. What seed has been planted in your garden by your Master Gardner Jesus?
  2.  How well do you know the Gardner? (Do you know Him or know of Him?)
  3. How is your relationship?
  4. How can the soil of your heart be better prepared to receive God's word?
  5. Do you really understand His love? 
Ask the Holy Spirit to become your personal tutor as you read God's word and grow in your relationship with Him.  

Remember to thank Him for His love!

God Bless

Virtuous Jewel


Tuesday, December 3, 2013

WOMAN OF GOD JOURNEY

God's Leading Lady was the theme of Omega Sister's Retreat 2013 held at Carambola Beach Resort in St. Croix US Virgin Islands.  

We have embarked on a new five (5) weeks journey where we were given a symbolic seed to plant.  

Each week we have a new section of the garden.  This week's theme is....

Planted with Love - Day 2

This reflects how each and everyone of us were planted in our mother's womb with love and was sheltered and protected until we came to life.  Meditatively read Psalms 139

Today's Focus: How were you planted?

Think of the times that God covered you and shielded you from childhood until now and...

  1. List the various phases of your life that you were covered
  2. Share how he carefully and intentionally took care of you
  3. What's the result of your protection  
Know that God takes joy in His gardening.  

Remember the Lord of life gave you life and delights in you.  

God Bless and keep the faith!

Virtuous Jewel




Tuesday, November 26, 2013

LUSCIOUS FRUITS

WHERE ARE YOU PLANTED?

Where you are planted will determine how luscious your fruits.  
It is important that we are planted by a water source or have access to water.
Psalm chapter 1 gives us an analogy of fruit bearing like being planted by rivers of waters.  That say the Psalmist guarantees fruit at the right season of the tree.

There are conditions as reflected in the Psalm for these luscious fruits.

  1. You must not walk in the counsel of the ungodly
  2.  You must not sit in the seat of the scornful
  3.  You MUST delight yourself in the law of the Lord and meditate on it day and night

Having meet the requirements above lets discuss: 

Today's Focus:  WHAT FRUITS ARE YOU BEARING?

Galatians 5:22-23

King James Version (KJV)
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

Reviewing from the list above state some of your luscious fruits from your godly tree and express how it has impacted or benefited you or bless someone else.

Remember fruit bearing is evident - It's either there or not there.  A fruit cannot be hidden it must be seen and if the season has come and it's not seen, it needs to be developed.  

Grow in grace! 

God Bless and Keep the faith!

Virtuous Jewel






Tuesday, November 12, 2013

DISTRACTORS AND DISTRACTIONS


BE HONEST WITH YOU

This morning the Lord reminded me of the things we put before Him or allowing to come between our worship and time spent in His presence. 

THANK GOD for the book, Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World. I am now more conscious and learned so much.  I Strongly recommend a copy to everyone!


Can I ask my friends and family to be HONEST with me today?
When you wake up in middle of the night or in the morning what grabs your attention or calls to your spirit first?

TODAY'S FOCUS:  

There are so many things that distracts us when we should be spending time with God.  Here are a few (you can add others as it applies).

The Cell phone - messages/email etc.
Facebook messages
Telephone call to someone
Food
Your favorite TV Show
Video games
The clock
Spouse or children
The News
Housework
School work
unfinished assignments
upcoming events
Other....



WHAT ARE YOUR SUGGESTIONS OR BEST PRACTICES?

Let's discuss how can we avoid some of these distractions upon waking up in the morning or when it's our worship time.  

Pray today....
Lord help me to stay focus and avoid every distractor and distractions in Jesus name.


God Bless you, and remember to keep the faith!

Virtuous Jewel

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

OMEGA SISTERS RETREAT 2013

GOD'S LEADING LADY 2013

We are extending the deadline for the retreat for this Thursday at 12:00 NOON to give other Women of God a chance to attend.  

Please take a look at the video and flyer attached.

Please feel free to share with your family and friends and anyone you know who want to experience a weekend of God's deliverance and blessings.  

Call (340) 643-8423, visit our website for other contact numbers or send us an email at twigsministry@gmail.com 





  

























         

                                                                       

Thursday, October 31, 2013

THE GLORIOUS RESULT

PERSEVERANCE

The Glorious Results come from persevering.  Most people want a testimony without the test.  We may want the product but skip the process.  

Charles Swindoll  states, " I fear our generation has come dangerously near the "I'm-getting-tired-so-let's-just-quit" mentality."  Not just the spiritual realm but in the natural realm. Let's review a few examples:

  • Dieting is a discipline, so we stay fat
  • Finishing school is a hassle, so we bail out
  • Cultivating a close relationship is painful, so we back off
  • Getting a book written is demanding, so we stop short
  • Working through conflicts in a marriage is a tiring struggle, so we walk away
  • Sticking with an occupation is tough, so we start looking elsewhere

TODAY'S FOCUS:  MARY HEART - MARTHA WORLD 

As you focus on Christ the two becomes one.  God removes the wall between the living room and the kitchen and made them one. You can go forth doing Martha with a Mary heart.  

As you reflect on the above let's discuss:
  • How can we serve with the characteristics of both women?
  • What examples can you give that reflect the two?

Remember, "God uses the pressures of trials to perfect our lives.  When we persevere, we become mature and complete.  We suffer no deficiency.  We have everything we need."

God Bless - Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel


Wednesday, October 30, 2013

THE TESTING OF OUR FAITH

PAIN WITH A PURPOSE

As we dialogue today, focus on this impressive statement and reflect back on your pain.
"God delights in transforming the black-carbon pressures of our life into diamonds of radiant beauty."

The birth of a baby is a great analogy to this subheading.  
For mothers who have experienced painful and long labor will tell you that it is a pain that is indescribable and severe.  The process of the pregnancy sometimes can make you weary, some may even experience "not so nice" thoughts, mixed emotions, some may even regret and question their ability to reach full term.  But the purpose of the pain and pressure has a reward.  A baby! Birthed from within her.  The pride and happiness of the bundle of joy almost deletes the months of anxious waiting and eliminate the memory of the pain.  

GOOD THINGS RARELY COMES EASY - IT WILL BE WORTH IT ALL

James 1: 2-4 
My brethren count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this that the trying of your faith worketh patience.  But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.  

James encourages us to be joyful in our struggles and circumstances and look beyond the painful surface awaiting like a pregnant mother the delivery and birth for that which we have endured.  

TODAY'S FOCUS: THE TESTING OF YOUR FAITH HAS A PURPOSE  

The word states that the trials of the Christians were directed toward a glorious and perfect end.  It will be worth it all if we persevere.  

SHARE OR REFLECT ON YOUR STORY...
  • What did you experience that can be compared as a pregnant mother?
  • What was your bundle of joy (outcome)
May God bless you as you remain steadfast and joyful in your pain knowing that we have already won and our deliverance is sure.  

Virtuous Jewel  

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

PARTNERS WITH CHRIST

Are you expecting God to do all the work?

The Lord went all the way to make us His own.  He has given us His Holy Spirit to teach us and guide us.  Though He has invested His own life to sanctify us and make us holy, takes what we have to offer and make it into His masterpiece and good, we are still expected to partner in with Him in the process.  We must do our part for He definitely will do His.  


A LIFE OF EASE PLEASE

Joanna Weaver continues to express that the journey is a challenging one, but we can live it out.

Sometimes we will hear nothing when we approach God except the soft sense of His presence.  The sense that He is there waiting for us to catch on to what he wants to teach us in the process.  

Henrietta Mears says, "there is only one way to learn God's lessons - On your face, with your mouth shut." 


TODAY'S FOCUS -  WHAT'S YOUR APPROACH?
Look at the various approaches and let's discuss which approach are you using to approach God?   

  • All-Star-Wrestling prayer approach - "Howsaboutta little help here?"
  • Job Approach - Why don't you care?
  • Jonah Nineveh Approach - I'm headed somewhere else?

Remember whatever you do, do your part and partner with Christ

God Bless and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

Monday, October 28, 2013

FINAL CHAPTER

HAVING A MARY HEART IN A MARTHA WORLD

We are closing our study with the title of the book, Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World.  
Although it was challenging at times, it has been a great journey.  

LORD OF THE PROCESS

It takes a process to make a product.  I am a living witness. I didn't just happened overnight. There were days when I questioned my faith, my strength and my ability to go through the process. But God! Through the fires of trials, hardship, temptations, loss, affliction, hurt and pain, I was made into His precious Jewel.  

The diamond ring that you wear didn't just happen, it went from the rock to the worker to the jeweler through the  chiseling and fires of refining to become your token of love.

The car you drive didn't just show up on the dealers showroom floor.  It had to take several parts going through different processes to come together, (just think of how the tires became tires, the engine and the various mechanical components were selected) to become your driving beauty. 

The house that you live in was not your place of sweet dreams until it went through the cleaning, excavation and construction drilling, hammering and other environmental and planning processes.

TODAY'S FOCUS:  BECOMING LIKE JESUS REQUIRES A PROCESS

The Christian walk requires a process the same way a product requires a process.

CHRISTIANITY IS A PROCESS AND NOT AN EVENT
If you truly want to be like Jesus you won't escape the refining process.  

Let's concentrate on some of your frustrations, disappointments or trials....

As you look at your circumstances and the various areas of you life can you see the things that you experience as a means and process of becoming what God wants for you?

Do you see even some of your hurt and struggles are the very thing God has perfected in your life and or ministry?  

Share and discuss how they have all formed to be a part of the plan of God for your life or how they have influenced or better your life.  

Remember Jesus is the Lord of the process and He who has started and began the work in you is able to bring it to it's completion.  Hallelujah!!

God Bless and always remember to Keep The Faith!!

Virtuous Jewel 






Tuesday, October 22, 2013

WATCH YOUR FEED

EAT RIGHT!  

Every where you look today, there are ads and books about eating and healthy living.  
Sometimes it may get confusing as to what is right to eat..
Don't eat this, eat this, eat that.  Sometimes what one person would say don't eat the other person would say eat the same thing that was not right for you.  

Yet despite the confusion, we must eat for survival.  Eating the right foods and essentials will improve our skin tone, strengthen our hair, improve our vision, blood, and other bodily functions.  Our intake must be proportion right, and we must also eat in moderation and have a balance.  

WHAT ABOUT YOUR SPIRITUAL EATING HABITS?

In Matthew 15:11-20 the story is untraveled about some eating etiquette.  It is said that it's not what goes into a man that defiles a man (we know that he was really speaking of eating with unwashed hands rather than eating anything) but what comes out of him, we must note that eating right will ultimately enhance our lives.  

TODAY'S FOCUS - So, what are we feeding on? Consider the following:

  • Are you eating right spiritually?
  • Feeding on the word daily?
  • Engaging in spiritual conversations?
  • Thinking pure and holy thoughts?
  • Watching inappropriate things on TV or internet?
  • Receiving the right counsel and advice
  • .........
Today, I would like to engage you in discussing some food we can eat both good and bad, that can affect us after it is processed.  
(example - Hate - will result in murder, sicknesses and other ills; daily bible reading - will result in establishing God's truth etc....) 

Today lets make a list of wrong foods and their results and the right foods and their results.

Thursday, October 17, 2013

GOD'S MERCIES

GREAT IS HIS FAITHFULNESS!!!!

Did you know it's because of God's mercies we are not consumed?  
Lamentations 3:22-23 
It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not.
They are new every morning:  Great is His faithfulness.  


TODAY'S FOCUS: Have you experienced God's Mercies?


Today I ask that you reflect on an experience when you knew like you knew that it was God's mercies that kept you or delivered you. Share the experience (if not too personal) that someone would benefit.  Consider the following when expressing and relating your story.
  • How did you know it was the mercies of God?
  • How did that change your life?
  • What did you learn from that experience?
  • In what way has that make you express mercy to others?
Know that God loves us and has extended great mercies and compassion towards us.  He could have chosen to let us suffer the punishment for our sins, BUT... His mercies gave us a second chance.

Remember to extend the same measures to someone else.

God Bless you and Keep The Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

YOUR IDENTITY

KNOWING WHO YOU ARE 

TODAY I WANT TO ASK ....

WHAT LABEL ARE YOU WEARING?

  1. How are you identified? (i.e.. name, status, position, past mistakes etc...)
  2. How has that identity affect you?

WHO DOES GOD SAYS YOU ARE?

  1. Have you lived up to what you are called or who God SAYS you are?
  2. Write a paragraph of scriptures that God says about you.

Don't let anyone tie you to a label that you are not comfortable with or God did not say that you are.  Renounce anything that others or you have spoken about you.  Trust God to give you the mind of Christ and know that you are a new creature in Christ Jesus.

Love & Blessings

Virtuous Jewel



Tuesday, October 15, 2013

HIGHER GROUND

ASSESSING YOUR SPIRITUAL GROWTH

What does Higher Ground Mean to you?
(Is it become a minister, engaging in some form of ministry, doing more for God, turning your life around, or leading others to Him?)

Waking up this morning to this song in my spirit....
I'm Pressing on the upward way, New Heights I am gaining everyday, got me thinking.....

I would like to engage you with the same thoughts by asking..... 


Question 1.  How have you grown in the last 10 months spiritually?  

This next verse also had me assessing my spiritual position....

My Heart has no desire to stay
Where doubts arise and fears dismay
Though some may dwell where these abound
My prayer my aim is higher ground

Question 2.  What is your desire? Are you ready to rise to the next level?

I encourage you to engage with me today as we seek spiritual growth to gain new heights on higher ground.

May God bless you as you lift your voice and sing the chorus with me...

Lord lift me up and let me stand
By faith on heaven's table land
A higher plane that I have found
Lord plant my feet on higher ground.

Oh  let this be your desire to..... PRESS ON THE UPWARD WAY!

Virtuous Jewel

Friday, October 11, 2013

CONCLUSION - BALANCING WORK AND WORSHIP

LEANING INTO OUR WEAKNESS

It is important to understand that in order to live the balanced life spoken throughout the week, we need to put more weight on the side we are weakest in.

This is the same of the balance of our lives.  There are instances we have to make a more concentrated effort to lean into our area of weakness and give more weight to the area of work or worship

YOU DON'T NEED TO DO IT ALONE! 
Ask for help.  The Lord is ready and willing to assist through the Holy Spirit to enable you to change.  

BELOW THE WATER LINE

How do we balance work and worship?  The secret is maintaining our connection to Jesus Christ.

The story told by Jeanne Mayo that "It all begins at the water line" has become a spiritual trigger point in her life.  It takes a determined focus and commitment to do first things first. 

What does that mean? Is there enough time and concentration to our spiritual life or is there more time spent in service. We must look below the line - work and worship.    If we concentrate on one or the other our lives will capsize.  There must be weight on both ends to balance or else one will capsize the other.  

There is no doubt that our worship (spiritual lives) must come first.  Because that's where we receive the council  to move forward.  It's in our constant communion and fellowship we can successfully move on to perform the duties of service.

TODAY'S FOCUS - CHECK UNDER YOUR WATERLINE

What's happening under the waterline of your ship?
  • Is there enough balance under your waterline?
  • Is the top of your water line in service or worship weightier that it's flipping over?

Activity 

  1. Draw a boat on water with the bottom of the ship below the water line.
  2. Label the top of the boat Service 
  3. Label below the water Worship.
  4. List your activities in either area 
I ask that you look at your ship (your lives) evaluate if a storm should come your way  is there enough weight in the bottom of the ship to balance you and to keep you from flipping over?

How can you add weight if needed in any area?

Remember as you spend time in the Living Room, walking talking and fellow-shipping with the Lord, you will be rich in the things of God.  You will also see that out of that abundance you will find the ability to find balance and be steadfast in the midst of any storm that come your way.  

Love God and your neighbor.  Balance both ends, rest in the Sabbath and practice hospitality.  

God Bless - Keep The Faith!

Virtuous Jewel  






Thursday, October 10, 2013

SPECIAL TREAT

THE GIFT OF SABBATH REST

Today I did a special treat for you letting you know how to let your soul catch up to you!
Enjoy and be blessed





TODAY'S FOCUS -  CONTINUED BALANCE



1.  God has instructed us to observe a regular period of extended rest in the middle of our busy lives.  


    • How are you observing the rest of God?

2.  Hospitality isn't an option to anyone who wants to serve Christ.  It is a part of our calling and though hard it is required as must be included in our busy lives.
    • How can you practice hospitality?

May God bless and empower you today.  Please provide your feedback on this special treat.  

Keep The Faith

Virtuous Jewel




Wednesday, October 9, 2013

THE RHYTHM OF A BALANCED LIFE

BALANCE BETWEEN LIVING ROOM AND THE KITCHEN

Chapter 11 continues with the rhythm of the balance.
Sometimes the balance between the two often times may resemble the up-and-down, back-and-forth motion of the teetertotter than of synchronicity.

One side of your life may take predominance at times.  One day you may spend several hours in prayer, bible study or spiritual intimacy, and another time you may find yourself wrapped up in service.  

This may happen from time to time.  As long as you set your balance and there is evidence that both are happening, don't worry.  

Planning is Everything

If you plan to do a week of spiritual activities or attend a retreat, you may not have time to do some of your duties.  So plan ahead, schedule or assign them to someone.  Always ask the Lord to help you schedule and plan your day or week. Don't try to count the hours spent doing both for balance.  You may want to spend a day in prayer and fasting, or a day just resting and reading don't look at it as if your day was not balanced if you have scheduled your duties and spread them out and can spend the day as you choose.  You may have a day where you were out doing community work and made up with that day.  
As long as you balance the two don't feel frustrated.

TODAY'S FOCUS - DO A BALANCE CHECKLIST

Because we were created for balance we can always feel the difference when our souls are out of balance or when an area is tilted too far than the other.  Our moods, attitudes, behaviors and energy level will demonstrate which area needs to be tilted.

Today, I ask that you give heed to your soul and sit down and do a balance checklist.  Our book gives us some signs but I would like you to do our own checklist.  (If you have your copy of your book you can review the one given, but there maybe some things not listed)
  • How are you feeling right now as it relates to being balanced?
  • Are you tilted in the are of work or worship?

Let's do a little exercise today.....
Depending on how you answered above list the things that have caused or causing you to be tilted. You can share a little story of your balanced or tilted life.  

Make a list also of all the things that you have to do as a routine with both service and worship
(perhaps committee, community, church or other activities, family and other engagements)

Give that list to God in prayer and ask him to help you develop a schedule that will help you to fulfill them without tilting over or feeling frustrated.

As you let the Holy Spirit guide you commit to be balanced.  Don't copy anyone's schedule, but what will work for you.  Let me also let you know that your schedule will change as you seek to find balance, so be flexible and open to change.  

Remember balance is not just finding and staying in perfect equilibrium but a matter of finding the perfect rhythm for you.  

God Bless and Keep The Faith!

Precious Jewel

 

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

CONTINUING YOUR BALANCE

CORRECTIVE MEASURES

Joanna Weaver states, " But there is more to this balanced Christian walk than only serving."

What measures have you taken to correct yours?

Jesus provided the story of the good Samaritan to prove the point to the lawyer in His day.  When we say we love serving people to what extent do we do it.  Is it way and beyond, off balance that there is no room for worship?   Or are we living on the spiritual side of life that there is no room for others?

Worship naturally comes first.  But even though we were created for worship, we were also created to do good works and do good deeds as in the story of the good Samaritan. Sometimes it seems like we are so caught up in worship that we neglect to do good deeds. 

"WE WERE CREATED TO SAY YES TO THE CALL OF BOTH DUTY AND DEVOTION."

PRACTICE SAYING YES

It seems that some people only know how to say no.  No matter what you ask them to do whether serving or ministering they would answer NO.  

We must practice to say YES.  Of course within reason and as God leads into our spirits.  We do not want to forget God's counsel and allow leanness into our souls.

TODAY'S FOCUS - WATCH YOUR BALANCE -                                                                                Less you become spiritually malnourished!


Jill Briscoe states " It's great release to know that the secret to "doing it all" is not necessarily doing it all, but rather discover which part of the "all" He has give us to do and doing all of that."  

So I pose the following questions...

  • Are you doing it all?
  • In Which area (duty or devotion) are you weighing most?
  • Are you saying yes when you should be saying no?
  • Are you saying no when you should be saying yes?

As you go throughout your day, think about the questions above and ask the Lord Jesus to direct you to His leading and point you to balance and fulfillment of His will and purpose for your life.  

YOUR FEEDBACK IS VERY IMPORTANT TO OUR MINISTRY

I know you have been reading and enjoying the journey with us, Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World.  I would love to hear your experience.  Please share with us and let us know how we are doing, how you have been enjoying the journey and the blogs.  

If you would also like to express your appreciation with a financial seed or blessing, please go to our website and help us continue to be a ministry who has purposed to empower, encourage, inspire, educate, motivate, bring deliverance, wholeness to others to enable them to enjoy an abundant and balanced life.  


 We love you and appreciate you and welcome your feedback.  May God bless you. 

Pastor Julie V. Modeste-Rhymer
Virtuous Jewel

Monday, October 7, 2013

CHAPTER 11 BALANCING WORSHIP and SERVICE

BAD CASE OF THE "BUMPSIES"

(When you are heavier on one side than the other and get bumped down or become unbalanced.  Teeter-totter or get the bumpsies.)  

After receiving a response to his first question the lawyer was reminded of what was written in the law.  Seeking to justify himself further he challenged Jesus with the question - "Who is my neighbor?  (Luke 10:29)
It is obvious that the answer he got was probably not the answer he was expecting.  He got the bumpsies.. and was brought right back down to earth from his legalistic and super-spiritual outlook.   

Love for God and Love for Others - Worship and Service

These are examples of a balance. - They exist with each other to form a balance.
The same way we must balance our service with worship.

Today's Focus:  Are you suffering with the Bumpsies?

Sometimes we are one sided tumbled over with worship or service.  Let's discuss...


  • Is one area stronger than the other? Which one?



  • What are you willing to do to find balance?

Share an experience where you were overpowered by one or the other

  1. How did it make you feel?
  2. What did you learn from that experience?
  3. How would you handle it again in the future?
May God bless you as we go through this week balancing worship and service.

Remember always to chose the better part and find the perfect spot of synchronicity.  

Virtuous Jewel






Friday, October 4, 2013

KISSES

KISSES CAN HURT!

Kisses are supposed to be gentle, tender, affectionate and make you feel better.  But...
Judas gave Jesus one kiss.  The kiss of betrayal.  The kiss that identified Him as the son of God. The kiss that was the signal to kill.  

Yes, kisses can hurt! That kiss hurt the son of God and caused Him to die.

Mary's loving and lavishing love was on the other hand different.  They were given in love and from a heart that was thankful.  

TODAY'S FOCUS - (Self Awareness)

  1. DOES YOUR KISS HURT OR HEAL?

As you look at the two scenarios of affection, where do you see yourself?

Are your actions and demonstration of love hurt the Lord or are you like Mary pouring out your oil of praise in lavishing love?

As you respond think about...
  • How you treat your family, friends, church co-workers etc..
  • The condition and motive of your heart when you give 

    2.  A TEST OF LOVE... (Summarized from St. Augustine- Self Test)

"Suppose God proposed to you a deal and said, "I will give you anything you want.  You can possess the whole world.  Nothing will be impossible for you.. Nothing will be a sin, nothing forbidden.  You will never die, never have pain, never have anything you do not want and always have anything you do want- except for just one thing you will never see my face."

Question?  Let's talk....
Did that question give you the chill?  
How would you feel if you were allow to do everything but not see His face?


As you reflect on the two sections of today's focus.  Inspect your heart and ensure that the precious aroma of extravagant love rises to heaven out of a pure and sincere heart.

Keep the faith - God Bless!

Virtuous Jewel




Thursday, October 3, 2013

LAVISH LOVE

LOVING WITH YOUR WHOLE HEART

1 John 3:1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: THAT'S LAVISH LOVE!

Do you ever wonder why some people are so giving and no matter what they keep doing and doing, giving and giving?

Most times these people are not recognized or stick out in the crowd but they ...
  •   Are heroes of faith
  •   Know how to love

TODAY'S FOCUS... ARE YOU HOLDING ANYTHING BACK?

In Mary story... MARY GAVE HER ALL.

She didn't consider the cost or the quantity but poured it all over her Lord!
She unwrapped her headpiece of her custom and let down her hair to wipe the feet of her Lord.  

Your extravagance may be misunderstood and adversely affect others.

Let's discuss...

  • Have you had to do anything outside of the custom or norm to show your love for your Lord?
  • What have you done that may have caused others to classify you as extravagant?
  •  What was the outcome or end results approval or disapproval?

Like Mary you may be vulnerable, fragile and open for rejection or rebuke.  
But go ahead and give Him your all.  

Remember, the silent approval of Jesus is maybe all you need.  

God Bless - Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel  





Wednesday, October 2, 2013

TWO KINDS OF HEARTS

IS YOUR LOVE TIGHT-FISTED?

It is said Mary had a heart of gratitude, but Judas had a heart o greed.

Godliness with contentment is great gain.  Discontentment on the other hand can creep in our lives and make us very unsatisfied with what we have.   That's why the apostle Paul said that greed and eagerness for money have caused some to err from the faith and pierce themselves with many sorrows.

Without gratefulness we can fall prey to the same hardness of heart and darkness that Judas displayed.  It's only the grace of God that keeps us.  

MARY'S HEART VS JUDAS'S HEART

Mary came with abandon - Judas came with an agenda

Mary heard what Jesus was saying - and she responded - Judas heard but did not understand.

Mary held nothing back - Judas gave nothing up

TODAY'S FOCUS:  Extravagant Scarifice

Extravagant love is difficult to understand.  People will always tell you what you should or should not be doing.  They may tell you that you going overboard or you putting in too much or giving too much.  

What do you think of the statement... 
TRUE LOVE ALWAYS COSTS THE GIVER SOMETHING

Can you relate to that statement?  Answer the following.....

  • What did it cost Mary?

  • What did it cost you?

Remember Jesus had an extravagant love and His love cost the extravagant sacrifice of His life.  

God Bless you! - Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel




Tuesday, October 1, 2013

A VIEW FROM THE DARK SIDE

WAS IT A WASTE?

Judas thought it was a waste that Mary poured out her perfume on the master.
Jesus didn't.  
Judas thought the fragrance should be sold and the money given to the poor.  
Jesus didn't.  He stated that it was a preparation for His burial.

Judas statement of the use of the perfume was not of concern for the poor, but it was because of  the condition of His heart and greed for money.  Jesus words still did not pierce Judas heart.  He had already agreed on the payment to turn over the savior to be crucified. 

TWO DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE

Judas situation caused the evil to rise up to the surface.

Mary situation cause spiritual intuitiveness and made her worship.  

Chapter 10 reveals that Jesus comes into the dark hidden corners of our lives and shines the spotlight of His Holy spirit and if we allow Him, He will clean up our personalities.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  What's your thoughts on the following statement by William Barclay?

The best way to reclaim someone who is on the wrong path is to treat him not with suspicion but with trust; not as if we expect the worst, but as if we expected the best."

That's what Jesus did with Judas.  He made him the treasurer knowing his intentions. Yet Judas remained unchanged and carried out his mission.  

  • Comment on the statement by William Barclay and then answer the following:

  • Do you feel someone who has a weakness should be trusted after they have been saved with the things they are weak in?  Why or Why not?

  • What other suggestions do you recommend?

Meditate on this.....
If we let the Holy spirit temper our lives we won't fall to the strong sides of our weakness and the weak sides of our strengths. 


God Bless and always remember to KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel 



  

 


Monday, September 30, 2013

EXTRAVAGANT LOVE

WHAT'S IN YOUR TREASURY?

Let's Talk about - Mary's Extravagant Love! 
There are things that we keep, save and treasure holding for a special moment or event. 
Mary had something.. Joanna Weaver puts it this way.. "Mary couldn't get it over the counter at Walmart or perhaps not at Saks Fifth Avenue." It was expensive and many knew its worth. 

Mary broke her alabaster box and poured over Jesus what is believed to be worth almost a year's saving. She knew her savior deserved not only the best but something that mattered most to her. Would she be willing to sacrifice it for her Master?

Jesus Deserves the Best!!

Sometimes we struggle to give up something that we have saved for a special event or maybe even for a specific purpose.  Example:  monies... put away for college for children, purchase a home or car, future retirement security, health; extra food for the month; clothes and other goods; doing a deed that may take you out of your comfort zone etc..
What if Jesus came your way (note that he does not visit us personally but in various forms) and ask us to give up something or doing something which may require much sacrifice.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  A LOOK INTO YOUR TREASURY

What are you holding in your treasury that's priceless that your Master is requiring today?
  • Would it be a struggle for you to give it up?  Why or Why not
May you be encouraged as you give up that one thing just for your Lord!

God Bless

Virtuous Jewel