A Place Near Your Altar

The Last Chapter: Fed by Ravens

2012-02-03T21:06:00.004-06:00

That last chapter
It had so much to say
Every word
Richer and deeper
Than I've ever known before

My dependency
On every morsal of His Word
My hearing with no seeing
And being fed by ravens along the Way

Finally, the letting go
It came so suddenly
It just crept up on me
I didn't even know
It was time.

****
Every moment of the past fell off
While walking through the wilderness
As crumbs they dropped along the way
And the ravens were busy...

The gift of yesterday
It kept me company along the way
The memories, the wrestlings, the extra load

But, the tight places
And, the hidden spaces
Wouldn't let me embrace them, even close, any more
I had to let go

And, so, they fell off me
As wisdom crumbs to trail the way
And the ravens were busy
On assignment...

They carried the experiences
To others
To other fellow travelers on the journey
To others who would travel the Way

On their way Home.
****

And, so the chapter was full
With my life script
With their life scipts
All because of HIS LIFE script

*******

Suddenly, the page turned.

I've begun a new chapter
The Author is here with me
And, He continues to write...
LIFE!

I look forward to what He pens
Free to move forward into today's gifts and treasures
Fresh joys, tears, hopes, and experiences to LIVE.
FOR HIS GLORY.

PS Thank You, ravens, for obeying His every Word.

In Jesus' Name, amen.

By: Christine Craig
Feb. 3, 2012
8:40 p.m.

God's Faithfulness :)

2012-02-02T07:16:00.002-06:00

Today I am subbing this morning for a geography/history class at one high school and then I am off to another school district to begin my first day of teaching AP English to Freshmen. :D Yes. God is FAITHFUL. He may take us through the wilderness, but God will always keep His Word about WHO HE IS in our lives. HE IS MY PROVIDER.

Yesterday I signed papers for my new part time English teaching position in Fort Worth. I will work there in the afternoons. And, in the mornings, I intend to sub for the two school districts that God has opened up for me in North Dallas where I've been this past year.

God has expanded my borders in teaching. And, He has blessed me with His amazing goodness and love.
He has given me a heart for teaching students, and He has given me the wisdom and discernment I need to do an excellent
job in the public schools. HE receives all the glory. I know that this call can only be met as HE goes before, behind, and with me.
YEH!!! :D

Also, last night I took another step, and I attended the WILD equip class at my church. It stands for Women in Leadership Development. I believe that in the coming days God desires to cultivate some more truths within me regarding the way HE wants me to lead as a Godly woman within all spheres of my influence. I look forward to learning what the Holy Spirit reveals to me through his anointed teachers. Last night was such a great start!!!

And, finally, this coming weekend, I will be singing in the choir at Gateway. If you plug in to Gatewaypeople.com you can find a live link to join us during the praise and worship times. Here are the times of the services: Saturday: 4 and 5:45 p.m. Sunday: 9, 10:45, and 12:30 p.m. I look forward to worshiping our AWESOME GOD with you!

Thanks for celebrating God's faithfulness with me. Some of you know what a journey this past year has been. And, you can say with me...GOD IS FAITHFUL.

Blessings!

Let Your Kingdom Come--new song of the moment

2012-01-29T09:24:00.001-06:00

Something Tells Me

2012-01-28T11:13:00.008-06:00

Verse 1:
Something tells me
Everything is alright
This darkness had a purpose

Something tells me
Brighter days are now ahead
You're faithful to all You've said

Channel:
So, Lord, I trust in You
Yes, Lord, I wait for You

Chorus:
When the blossoms wake
And, the fields dawn light
When the sun arises
Covering the night

When the peace comes in
And the cold nights end
I know
I know
You are faithful
You are faithful, God.

Verse 2:
Something tells me
Winter songs have played their part
In covering the tender past

Something tells me
The season has changed at last
And, the time for Rejoicing is here

Bridge:
It's His whisper in my heart
It's the voice of Hope and Life
It's the miracle of Love
He is God.
He is God.

Written by:
Christine Craig
January 28, 2012.

God Is Faithful :)

2012-01-28T09:39:00.002-06:00

For those of you who have been keeping up in reading my blog, I'm so sorry it's been a while since I've posted. I just felt led to keep quiet for a season. God is so good!!! In the past month, He has been doing much! In short, God has allowed me to become updated on some very important things, and I am now landed for a season. Also, I've been subbing every day. I love subbing! :)

At church I've started up in choir again. We have our first worship for the year on the first weekend in Feb. I hope you'll join me on Saturday if you're free! The times are at 4 and 5:45. You can look for the Live link at Gatewaypeople.com. I love worshiping God, and I'm thankfulf for the opporunity to sing at my church in worship to God! :)

Also, at church, God has been placing me exactly where HE wants me to be. He's plugging me into prayer and intercession. He's had me attend the Pray First prayer initiative our church has begun. I love going to the 4 p.m. Saturday service and praying while the service is going on. I love hearing what the Lord wants prayed for our church. It's a very powerful time. Also, I'm active with the Global Prayer and Intercession teams. It's an amazing opportunity to pray for missionaries who go to other countries. God wants us to ASK Him for the other nations. I know that in God's timing, I will be going to other countries. But, right now, God wants me to pray and intercede for those whose season it is to Go. It's powerful.

Okay, maybe I'll write more in the coming days. I'm in the season of blooming and REJOICING. God is doing it.

Hope you and your family are doing well. Blessings to you! :)

Joel 2:20-27.

Memorial Stone

2012-01-02T05:12:00.002-06:00

My prayer today is that our nation will remember God and choose to put Him first. God knew what He meant when He told the Israelites to set up memorial stones and not to move them so that when generations behind them would ask what they stood for, they could tell the stories of all the wonders, miracles, and Presence of God in their lives.

Here's the thing...We have a responsibility in our generation as believers in Jesus Christ to share the Gospel of Truth and His Word to the next generation. Our constant, our reminder of God's goodness is His Word and through that Word all the amazing testimonies He gives us as we walk with Him. The generation who is behind us needs to know.

There's a song I used to sing when I was in college. The lyrics said this: "May all who come behind us find us faithful. May the light of our devotion light their way. May the footprints that we leave, lead them to believe, and the life we live inspire them to obey. May all who come behind us find us faithful." The Holy Spirit gripped my heart with these words and called me to live a life of LEGACY. FOR LIFE. All the way Home.

When I think about the people I've encountered, the persecutions I've endured in the course of the past 10 years for my faith, the mockings from the younger generation who didn't understand because what they saw was "different" and "not supposed to show", when I think about the compromises I've seen in the lives of leadership I've always loved and admired, it makes me sad because I've seen how our nation has moved from believing TRUTH to believing a lie. Lies just always bring trappings and fear. God's Truth always brings LIFE and FREEDOM.

I guess I realize tonight that I want those I've encountered throughout the course of my life to say..."You know...She loved God. AND, she wanted me to know Him and love Him, too. He was her passion. AND, she said that He could be mine." I want to stand up as one in my generation to say...I agree with those who went before me and who showed me the Way. There IS a God, and HE changed my LIFE. And, His Word is real. I know this. I want to SHINE and keep SHINING. Not just for me, but because I feel called to lead and to share with those who come behind me in the next generation that there IS a TRUTH. I want God's legacy of TRUTH, LIFE, and FAITHFULNESS in Jesus Christ, what Jesus did for us to set us free to love and follow God, I want that to be shared. And, I want others to know that He does exist, and He is real. Even if when they were born, there was legislation and culture that tried to show them otherwise because they have no longer taken time to remember the memorial stones, or they haven't heard from those who have gone before them about the Truth, Life, and Way.

That's why I choose the cross. Why Jesus is so real to me when others don't understand or want Him. I know what He's done in my life, and I know what He's done throughout generations of those who have loved and honored Him. And, I know God wants those today and tomorrow to know Him, too.

So...no matter the cost, will we SHINE for Jesus Christ? Will we be willing to say that God is REAL when the world says He's not? Will we uphold His Word and LIVE IT with our lives so others can witness His Word in action? Will we choose to LOVE Jesus Christ even if others who have never known him or rejected him for the world, continue to resist and reject Him?

God loves us. He gave us a Savior. It's Truth. And, I know God wants the WHOLE WORLD to know this. Because He said it...He loves the world...He gave His only Son...

So, I lift this up as a memorial stone for anyone who reads this. Jesus loves us. Me and you. Now we can choose to love Him and tell others about Him, so they can know. God bless you.

Reflections--Passion:: 2010, Two Years Ago

2011-12-29T19:44:00.000-06:00

Two years ago about this time, I flew to Atlanta to serve as a volunteer at the Passion:: 2010, a college worship conference over New Year's weekend with the renown Chris Tomlin and Louis Giglio. Here's something that stands out to me big now in compare and contrast of where I was then and where I am now... Originally, I was going to split a room with a lady from PA, but she had decided not to att...end. So, that weekend, if I remember right, I spent about $650 to stay 4 nights at one of the most upscale luxury hotels in walking distance of the convention center. I had ironicaly wrestled with that decision, not because of cost, but because of the atmosphere in the hotel, but nevertheless, God willed it.

As extravagant as that sounds, it was God's will in the end. I remember witnessing to a maid who came knocking on my door. She normally did not clean that room, but her friend was out or something. She was looking to draw closer to God. And, she wanted prayer for her daughter. It was as if the Lord had sent her to me, and from that point, I wasn't wrestling about the room anymore, for it was confirmed that it was His will.

In lieu of me having this extravagant room, I also remember one day waiting for a friend in the food court of the convention center to find a homeless man who literally looked around and thought nobody was looking, and who picked a plate out of the trash and was getting read to eat it for his dinner. :( I think my tone may have shamed him, when it was some serious immediate passion that got me moving quicky to help. My tone was abrupt, though, with that same passion, and that is what I regret sometimes. My quick reaction came out for seeing something so audacious that I've only heard of, but never literally seen, and my heart had jumped to immediately to stop what I had seen. I told him that I saw what he'd done, and that since I could help, he wasn't to do that, and I bought his meal. My heart was right, but looking back I would have moved slower, would have let him be hidden longer, and I would have spoken with quieter grace. Surely, this was not his first meal of that sort... It's one of those moments that I think my future Mr.Knightly of a husband would look at me later and say..."Badly done, Christine. Badly done."

I didn't like that I had caught him "in the act" when nobody else seemed to notice. It hurt my heart to see another human being having to do something like that to live. :( That was why I acted so abruptly. Did he even notice, though? Outside of his initial embarrassment for getting caught, he was so thankful for whatever food I gave him. And, he...he called me an angel. And, the alarming part was that he meant it. Lol. I told him I was no angel. And, then I tried to share Christ, but I realized he had an angel philosophy that would need some serious tweaking first. So, our talk didn't go far.

Why am I remembering all this right now? It's to share. How blessed we really are sometimes and to share how we must help the humanity around us.

Yes, I helped at the Kneel Prayer Station, but God had me SEE Atlanta that weekend, every morning when I would walk through the convention center. Now I think about $650...that is more than 2 weeks wages for me. God let me get that room for His purpose, but now I just have my eyes opened a bit. Can you now see what I saw? We have to LOVE. And, those who are blessed...we have to serve and give to one another. WITH GRACE AND LOVE.

Jesus, The Most Beautiful Name That I Know

2011-12-29T07:44:00.002-06:00

This is a song that my church sings often.
The Name of Jesus is beautiful and powerful!

Just How Far Will You Go?

2011-12-23T18:18:00.002-06:00

Just how far will you go, Faith lady, Faith lady?
Just how far will you go in serving the King?
If He takes your house and your love and your family
Will you still serve Him? Will you still sing?

My answer is Yes.
I'm free, you see.
These goadings of yours
Have no hold on me.

He's not a taker
He's THE Giver of LIFE
Whatever He asks for
Is already His, not mine
I'm honored to serve Him
I'm honored to sing
My life I surrender,
My sole offering.

by: cac

Silent Night

2011-12-17T12:49:00.001-06:00

2011-12-13T20:00:00.000-06:00

A new song I just wrote...

Verse 1:
Blind am I
Uncertain of this step I'm taking
I rely completely on Your Word
If I fall, I fall into Your loving arms
Hold me close, Jesus, I need You

Verse 2:
Every breath
I'm taking is a whispered prayer
All my strength surrendered to Your loving care
I am weak I confess it now
I need You here
Jesus, hold me close

Pre-chorus:
The mystery of this Way
Is nothing compared to Your Love
To Your Love

Chorus:
I will stay this sacred ground
I will wait upon Your Word
I know that You're faithful, Love
Every prayer You've heard

I will trust what I cannot see
And sing this sacred song...
I will sing
I will sing with You
A gift of worship, You're giving to me...

Hold me, Jesus
I sing with You...

~Christine Craig
Dec. 12, 2011
Just written 9:34 p.m.

Two Salvations to Begin the Day!!!

2011-11-12T06:51:00.002-06:00

This very early morning, I was at wal-mart. Well, when I got out, there was a car next to me a'booming and a'booming like it was the proper time to dispense every beat and foul language to the whole wide world. I noticed a guy in there. We made eye contact for a sec, and then I quickly got in my car. Then, I felt led to pause. To pray. God saw him. God wanted me to say something to him, but I didn...'t know what. Suddenly, the tunes turned off, and he stepped out to go to work. He had on the navy blue, and he was heading into the store...Suddenly, I knew what I had to say.

He was already in the store. I was still in my car. I had a choice to make. I stepped out of my car and hastily walked back into the store, basically feeling like I was running after this guy, totally and fully understanding this is how God chases after us. After all, He was the one sending me in to tell him. I caught up with him and I told him. "I'm supposed to tell you Jesus loves you. And, He sees you." The look in his eyes were surprise, hunger, blank, and just glossy as if he was under an influence. God wouldn't let me just say that and leave. In short, I asked him if he wanted to make Jesus Christ his Lord. He said yes!!! So, I told him to ask Him to be His Lord. Then, I prayed for him. I left the store about less than 5 minutes later. The encounter wasn't long. But, it was vital. I knew as I was walking out the store, THAT is why I ended up there this morning.

THEN, the Lord JUST NOW!!! Did another amazing miracle!!!! He led me to starbucks this morning. I wanted to go to Panera's and planned to, but God kept bringing up Starbucks, instead, so I found myself coming here. I got a peppermint tea, & a girl was talking to me about the eggnog latte. Long story short, she began talking to me about church and God. She has begun attending a ch...urch nearby. She grew up Catholic and her husband grew up Mormon. But, they are seeking God. She began to cry because we both realized that I was here for her this morning! She permitted me to pray for her and her family. As I was starting, I felt the Lord having me ask her if she wanted to receive Him as her Lord and Savior. So, I asked. She said YES!!! :D So, she prayed, and I agreed with her. And, then I prayed for her and her family!!! Wowzeries!!!! That is 2 new salvations in 3 hours!!!

One Year Milestone

2011-11-10T06:35:00.002-06:00

One year ago today, November 10, 2010, I stepped out of my brother's home and began living a life of total FAITH and DEPENDENCY on God as never before. In one year, I have broken new terrain in my life, and I've seen God's faithfulness, provision, and character in ways I've never known before. Stepping out in total abandon and faith, not knowing what is ahead and not having anything but God has be...en one of the craziest, wildest, most amazing things I've ever done in my life. If you wanna read a really long note about it, keep reading. :)

And, GOD HAS KEPT ME. HE IS FAITHFUL. :)

I'm still going through this wilderness, but I've asked the Lord to not let me take short cuts or to compromise to get out of this place sooner. As a result, I had to turn down many jobs, many places where I could land that would be an easy take for my flesh, but totally something that would compromise my heart, and I've had to keep walking until I received God's "YES" for me. All I knew sometimes was that whereas many would question me or why I couldn't do something, I knew His "NO" and I wanted to wait for His "YES." That is what it means to live, not dependent on just bread, but EVERY WORD that proceeds out of the Lord's mouth. My life is not my own. It belongs to Jesus. And, He is being FAITHFUL to fulfill His will for me, no matter how unconventional it has seemed. And, trust me, it has totally been an "out of the box" experience for me. And, I've learned that I can go there with God! :)

As for pressing through this wilderness, I want to be faithful to the purpose in which He's called me to this place. I want Him to COMPLETE what He wills for me in this season; I want others who come behind me to see the markers and trailblazing and give glory to God, and I want to learn the lessons I must to be transformed and ready for the next step.

The Israelites had their desert and Red Sea experience. Did you know that God could have taken them a shorter route, but He purposely led them the long way to get Egypt out of their heart? You can start reading about it in Exodus 13:17. But, the other thing is...God led them, too. It says that He took them the long way, but HE went ahead of them and with them...the long way.

That's what it's been like in this wilderness. God has gone before me, behind me, and with me. And, HE has been FAITHFUL.

Someday soon, I will have testimonies to share of God's FAITHFULNESS when I get to the place of His Promise. But, honestly, I'm so THANKFUL today for the moment for being able to see God's miracle of HIS PRESENCE as I live each day dependent and trusting Him.

I want to thank those of you who have supported me with prayer, provision, and encouragement along this journey. It has truly been the adventure of my life, and I am thankful for those of you who have cheered me along the Way with His and your love.

God has a plan for my life. And, it begins again right this moment. And, you know what?! He has a plan for your life, too. He is a GOOD and FAITHFUL God. He is going to fulfill His Will and Word for our lives. All we have to do is simply put our hand and heart in His and TRUST GOD.

Thanks for reading this LONG note! :D God bless you and your family.
In Jesus' Name, amen.

"Trust You With Abandon"---New Song

2011-10-29T21:10:00.004-05:00

I recorded this during a time of personal worship, a song that I wrote in the spring of 2010. I came across it tonight, and I wanted to share it. It captures the journey of my walk with the Lord during this season. Yeh, for testimony!!! :)

PS The picture was taken during the big snow storm in February of 2010 on CFNI campus. the original photo is actually all about the landscape, but when I took a closer look at the photo, I saw this sojourner. Tonight, I cropped the photo because it fit.

Waiting

2011-10-29T21:02:00.003-05:00

Found this tonight. It's one of my worship recordings from a while ago. The first song is an impromptu song. If you wait a few seconds, you will hear a short impromptu piano piece, as well.

The Promise

2011-10-28T23:58:00.006-05:00

This is an impromptu song I played on the piano a while back from my heart.

Deuteronomy 5---The 10 Commandments SPOKEN by God

2011-10-22T20:58:00.001-05:00

Did you know that the orginal 10 commandments were spoken by God? How amazing it was to read Deuteronomy and learn that God took the time to be personal, to be a Father, to be a God to the people of Israel! We sometimes think of the commandments as laws written on stone, but seriously, before it became that, it was God's breath, truth, life, and heart being imparted to His chosen, to their hearts, for they heard Him speak to them. They were the first generation to ever hear God's voice speak to them from out of the fire! They knew that was a miracle, and it was very intimately powerful for God to speak to them.

Today with the Holy Spirit and Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, these words are now written on the hearts of those who have received Jesus as their Savior. Yes, Jesus said that we can now sum up these commandments with the greatest commandment which is to love God and to love others as ourselves. That's just it, all these commandments fall into those two categories. :)

I hope this blesses you.

You see, if you read Deuteronomy, Moses exhorted the Israelites to remember that they heard God's voice from out of the fire. He knew that soon enough, they would have children, and those children would not have heard God's voice out of the fire, and it was up to them to share it with their children.

I want my future family to know that God's voice breathes LIFE and TRUTH for generations. I want my family to not only know the 10 commandments on the walls of our home or even the 2 summed up, but I want them to KNOW GOD!!!!!!! I want them to know the commandment Giver, and I want them to hear Him today. Because if there is anything that I've learned...I've learned that God still speaks. :)

Praying this note not only grips you and challenges you to press into God's Word and heart, but that it CALLS you to hear God and follow Him. For you and your whole family.

Much love to you all! :)
~Christine

1 Moses summoned all Israel and said:
Hear, Israel, the decrees and laws I declare in your hearing today. Learn them and be sure to follow them. 2 The LORD our God made a covenant with us at Horeb. 3 It was not with our ancestors[a] that the LORD made this covenant, but with us, with all of us who are alive here today. 4 The LORD spoke to you face to face out of the fire on the mountain. 5 (At that time I stood between the LORD and you to declare to you the word of the LORD, because you were afraid of the fire and did not go up the mountain.) And he said:

6 “I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.
7 “You shall have no other gods before me.
8 “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. 9 You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, 10 but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.
11 “You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.
12 “Observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy, as the LORD your God has commanded you. 13 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 14 but the seventh day is a sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your ox, your donkey or any of your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns, so that your male and female servants may rest, as you do. 15 Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and that the LORD your God brought you out of there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore the LORD your God has commanded you to observe the Sabbath day.
16 “Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the LORD your God is giving you.
17 “You shall not murder.
18 “You shall not commit adultery.
19 “You shall not steal.
20 “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
21 “You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife. You shall not set your desire on your neighbor’s house or land, his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”

22 These are the commandments the LORD proclaimed in a loud voice to your whole assembly there on the mountain from out of the fire, the cloud and the deep darkness; and he added nothing more. Then he wrote them on two stone tablets and gave them to me.
23 When you heard the voice out of the darkness, while the mountain was ablaze with fire, all the leaders of your tribes and your elders came to me.24 And you said, “The LORD our God has shown us his glory and his majesty, and we have heard his voice from the fire. Today we have seen that a person can live even if God speaks with them. 25 But now, why should we die? This great fire will consume us, and we will die if we hear the voice of the LORD our God any longer. 26 For what mortal has ever heard the voice of the living God speaking out of fire, as we have, and survived? 27 Go near and listen to all that the LORD our God says. Then tell us whatever the LORD our God tells you. We will listen and obey.”
28 The LORD heard you when you spoke to me, and the LORD said to me, “I have heard what this people said to you. Everything they said was good.29 Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it might go well with them and their children forever!
30 “Go, tell them to return to their tents. 31 But you stay here with me so that I may give you all the commands, decrees and laws you are to teach them to follow in the land I am giving them to possess.”
32 So be careful to do what the LORD your God has commanded you; do not turn aside to the right or to the left. 33 Walk in obedience to all that the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.

New Journals and a Beautiful Saturday

2011-10-16T00:22:00.004-05:00

"When Love Was Slain" by: Jennie Riddle and Crystal Yates

2011-10-11T19:53:00.001-05:00

Beautiful new song. Absolutely a of my heart. Walking it out...

Open Talk about The Bible, Holy Spirit, Jesus Christ, God

2011-10-05T23:03:00.006-05:00

I want to address one of the most alarming deceptions going around in this day and age---that somehow the Word is not credible or trustworthy. Their evidence? That the Bible has been rewritten by men. The enemy's scheme and ploy? To get everyone to stop reading and following the Word of God by demoting its value and getting people to doubt its authenticity and authority as the absolute Word of God. But, the enemy is a liar. You'll see.

I just have one thing to say... The SAME Holy Spirit who breathed LIFE and gave the original writers the original Word is very much alive and living in our hearts today (for those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior), and He is pouring out His discernment because He SO doesn't want us to miss God's will and Word. He wants us to know Him and His voice, as He reveals the Father's heart. So, we can TRUST that HE will not let us miss what HE wants to highlight and draw us to in Spirit and in Truth. We can trust that He's leading the writers, or if they are switching up and making errors, we can be assured that God will not allow us to be deceived by a version of the Word that is not His Word.

The bottom line? The Bible never had its origin in man, but in God. The Bible, inspired and given by the Holy Spirit, is 100% credible and worthy to be followed. Listen to the Holy Spirit & He will lead you into all Truth as you dig through the amazing goodness of Jesus through the breathing pages of God's heart!!!!!!!! PS Just read it. Jesus will change your life.

The Holy Spirit is what makes us One. One in Jesus. One in the Father. One with each other as believers in Jesus Christ. He lines us up to God's will and way. He lines us up with the Word, who is Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit is the O...NLY one who can make us One. And, He is the Only one who can give us the Father's love for one another in Spirit and in Truth.

The most tender-hearted person who doesn't have the Spirit of God within them are absolutely void of power, truth, and life beyond their mortal selves. That is why I don't put my trust in man or in the tenderness of even my own heart. I put my trust in God and what His Spirit reveals to me through His Word and what HE confirms to me through prayer and spending time in relationship with Him. If we walk by the Spirit, then we have no room for the flesh. Ultimately, life is not about following our hearts, as its source will be self. But, true life is all about following God's heart. He's the author and perfecter of LIFE, after all! :)

For some of you, all this talk will simply be foolishness. Why? Because God's spiritual truths are spiritually understood when we're born in the Spirit of God. So, this is me saying...if you read this, and you're like, "I don't get ...any of this, and it frustrates me," I wanted you to know that you don't have to stop there. I dare you to talk to Jesus about whether or not He's real, whether or not there's a Holy Spirit, and whether or not there's even a God. I asked God when I was in 6th grade. And, i got my answers. If you want and need someone to share the Gospel with you or pray with you for salvation, if you want me to, I would be honored to serve you in any way I can. God used people in my life to grow my walk with Him and to show me He was real. I truly believe that God wants to use me to show many in life just how amazing, awesome, and good He is, and that He is real. Real for the relationship and taking up of HIS WORD. God bless you! :)

Weekend Update

2011-10-02T18:32:00.002-05:00

Had such an incredible time this weekend singing in Gateway Church choir for the first time ever!!! :) I met some amazing new friends, and I look forward to growing in Christ with them. We got to sing with the worship band for 4 services! It was totally amazing and fun! Kari Jobe was our worship leader for the weekend, and she did a fantabulous job leading us into God's Presence. Love God! Love my church! And, I'm thankful for my new friends! :)

Invite to Watch Gateway Church Service Online This Weekend

2011-09-27T22:13:00.004-05:00

I'm excited about this weekend. Wanna know why? Well, I'm going to be singing at my church in the choir on stage for the first time! :) And, it's an honor because one of my favorite worship leaders, Kari Jobe, will be leading us this weekend! (So cool since I used to just worship with her songs on youtube vids while I was worshiping on my face in my apartment in Illinois!) But, wanna know what the greater honor is? I think you already guessed it...but, yeah...WORSHIPING JESUS!!! (With an incredible body of Christ. :) So, if any of you in the blogging world is interested in joining us for any of the services, feel free to watch us live here: Gateway Church Live

"Take My Life"

2011-09-27T18:14:00.001-05:00

I took this photo at Dunn Bros. here in Dallas, TX in fall 2009. It's one of my favorite pictures from one of the cutest coffee shops that ever existed! :)

I recorded "Take My Life" today, just sitting here waiting for the young adult service at church. It's one of my favorite hymns, a cry of my heart.

One Perfect Kiss

2011-09-27T16:47:00.005-05:00

No truth or dare games
Just honesty
Hunger for touch
And intimacy

Yet
All restrained
All sealed away
Until the right moment
Until the given day

Secrets unlock
That hearts can miss
When defrauded by time
With a single kiss

A gift knows its moment,
It's promise pure bliss...

...Two lives joined forever
With one perfect kiss.

~Christine Craig
Sept. 27, 2011

"Love Breaks Through"--- a new song

2011-09-17T10:53:00.003-05:00

"Love Breaks Through"

Broken and bruised
By words and abuse
The walls break down
The roof caves all night

No hope rests inside
Just darkness and fright
O, where do we go from here?

Secrets untold
Pain unspoken
Hearts crack
From mistakes and blame

Covered in lies
The hiding of eyes
Reveals the depth of shame

But, SUDDENLY

Love breaks through
Love breaks through
And nothing is ever the same.

Darkness and night
All shame and fright
Bows to Love's Holy Name

Love breaks through
Love breaks through
And healing comes rushing in

Forgiveness and peace
Is finally realeased...
Home has a chance again.

~Christine Craig
Sept. 17, 2011

True Love is Faithful

2011-09-15T06:17:00.008-05:00

One of the qualities of true love is faithfulness. I believe that when God ordains a marriage between a man and wife, it's for life, and faithfulness is KEY.

Faithfulness means having a single heart for the one God has appointed to be our mate. It's keeping a focused commitment to remain steadfast, loyal, and purely devoted.

True love isn't selfish. It's considering God and His plan. It's considering our mate with every action, thought, and word we live out whether we're married yet or not.

As singles, we can practice the art of faithfulness right now.

We can align our hearts and lives to God's will and agree that we'll be faithful to following Him our whole lives, at all costs.

We can also be committed to those whom God appoints into our lives by practicing service and Godly love in our relationships with them.

When it's time then for the Lord to join us in marriage with the one He's saved for us, we will know then that He's also kept us for our mate.

Single years aren't about feeding our carnal souls with dates and selfish relationships that just waste time and gratify our fleshly needs to be accepted and wanted.

These years, laid out before the King, can really be transformational. We can learn to deny ourselves and surrender to God's will; we can learn that true love will always be about spilling and spending our lives for the sake of Jesus Christ.

Ulimately, true love can only happen between couples who are totally surrendered to Jesus Christ, wanting His will and way.

That's what I want.
And, that's what I'm waiting for.

I knew my sophomore year that I was waiting for true love.
The man who wins my heart for life commitment will keep his in Jesus Christ and wait for me. God is keeping my heart for him.

Psalm 85:10-13

Love and faithfulness meet together;
righteousness and peace kiss each other.
Faithfulness springs forth from the earth,
and righteousness looks down from heaven.
The LORD will indeed give what is good,
and our land will yield its harvest.
Righteousness goes before him
and prepares the way for his steps.

"Holy Spirit, Have Your Way" by: Leeland

2011-09-11T12:39:00.000-05:00

This is the prayer and song of my heart today. It speaks what the Lord is doing in my life in this season. It's a beautiful song...but only because it TOTALLY captures the Truth of where I'm at...in surrender. I love You, Jesus. "What a joy it is to give my life to You...Holy Spirit have Your way in Me. MORE OF YOU AND LESS OF ME!!!"

New Shoes! :)

2011-09-09T07:49:00.002-05:00

These are my very first pair of spiked heels! :) I needed a new pair of shoes for work. I was so thankful when I saw this pair and it passed all three tests for me!

1. Comfy (Yes, they really are!)
2. On sale at Kohl's (Only $10.99----saved $44.00)
3. My shoe size!!! (I was SO excited about that!!!)

I love how God provides for all our needs and along the way sometimes He surprises us with little delights that make our heart smile. :)

Visit Today

2011-09-08T16:54:00.002-05:00

Went to visit the Christian school today. It was awesome! So thankful for all that the Lord is doing in this season of my life! :) Looking forward to subbing there as the Lord leads!

Every Day Miracles---When God Begins to Move

2011-09-08T09:00:00.002-05:00

Wow. I don't know where to begin...

God has been moving in my life this past week with SUDDENLIES.

1. I received awesome sub jobs for being the start of school. One week I got to sub for a teacher all week in High School English. It was an incredible opportunity.

2. I met a very precious sister in Christ in choir last week who felt led to give me a business card in case I'd like to sub for a Christian school. I learned she is the elementary school principal. So, I began praying about it.

3. On Sunday I ran into her again, and this time, she said if I ever needed a place to stay, to give her a call. She felt led to give me her phone number. And, I felt led to continue praying, because I felt God was stirring.

4. Earlier this week, God provided me with a financial miracle where I was able to take out a small transitional loan through my credit union back home in Illinois. I was driving to church and praying in the Spirit when I felt the Lord depositing in my Spirit to call them. I did, and the rest is amazing.

5. A couple days ago, I received 114% greater profit in selling my "old boyfriend" jewelry than I would have made if I sold it 6 months earlier. That became a source of provision for food and gas.

6. The night before last, I felt led to contact the principal to let her know I did need a place to stay, and last evening, I learned that she lives in Grapevine, which is an ideal central location close to my current school district where I sub, and it's close to where I attend church. I may only be here for a few days, but I am thankful for the hospitality for each day. I know the Lord is simply revealing to me that He is answering my provisional needs for housing and that HE is on that. I will continue to be patient while He places me where He needs me to be! :)

7. Last evening, I received an email from the school district where my church is, and I was told that there is a spot for substitute orientation tomorrow, if I am interested in attending. (I was on a waiting list, and I wasn't going to be able to go through orientation until Jan.! Of course, I marveled at the fact that God even opened the door for me to apply to the district and that I got the opportunity to even get a sub orientation at all.)

8. Today I am going to visit the Christian school to turn in an application for subbing with them, as well.

All in all, I feel like God has been fulfilling His Word in my life, and that He is stretching my borders. The Lord told me that He had set my feet in a spacious place, the place of His Presence. I'm beginning to see that God is covering multiple territories in the opportunities He is allowing me to partner with Him in serving.

God has been supplying miracles. Thank you for the prayers.
God is faithful. I know my Father will do exactly everything He wants to do to bring His Kingdom in and through me on earth, as it is in heaven. ALL FOR HIS GLORY! In Jesus' Name, amen.

Psalm 18:30
As for God, His way is perfect; the Word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him.

Set Apart Girl Magazine...Beautiful Article on Waiting for Husband

2011-09-06T00:01:00.000-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More annie wesche

Set Apart Girl Magazine...Must Read Article on Self-Promotion

2011-09-05T10:54:00.000-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More annie wesche

Hero

2011-09-03T23:58:00.011-05:00

You're strong and secure
You make my heart smile
Your hand holds mine, promising to never let go
And, I realize I believe you.

You love me so lavishly
And choose to cover my weaknesses,
You could expose the most vulnerable places of my heart,
But instead, you shield me with your honor
And, I find I'm protected by you.

You take care of me
And provide for all my heart's desires
You take time to intimately listen and give yourself
I receive your love.

You're my hero.

*I don't know him yet, but someday I will meet this amazing man and spend the rest of my life treasuring his heart.

Exploring

2011-09-03T20:24:00.007-05:00

I must be going through a phase of exploring new things. This morning I was thinking up crazy ideas of renting/buying a home to provide missional/transitional housing for women in ministry. This evening, I find myself signing up with Americorps. Um...Did I just accidentally enlist myself into the U.S. reserves or something? I don't think so. I mean...right? In any case, they had some great opportunities to serve with non-profit organizations across the state and U.S. That's just it, the words, "National and Community Service" somehow touched me. Also, I found myself learning a little bit more about grants and grant writing; I believe God wants me to understand the process of how to access grants, for there ARE government allocated funds that can help support God-ordained ministries. Whereas I used to think I needed to remain separate from the government, I now am beginning to pray about how it's important to be a light and open all doors for the Lord, even in our state and national government. If we think about it...all government is supposed to be for the people, by the people in our nation...What better way than to impact lives than through serving Jesus Christ in government service for the nation's people? I WANT to make a difference in my community and nation by sharing the Love and Light of Jesus Christ.

I'm vaguely intrigued by my behavior today. It was as if I was divinely inspired to serve others in creative, fresh ways. This evening I looked into outreach programs, literacy programs, and after-school public relations services involving youth and community. In some ways, each of these opportunities struck a nerve with me, as if to tell me to pay attention.

That's what today has been about...paying more attention to how God has wired me. What is it that He's making me aware of in this season? What moves me to compassion? What causes me to want to help others? Where does my heart beat for serving others?

I think sometimes we put a box around the way God does things. We think that going to another country is missions. But, really, God has no boxes. Every place where we place our feet is the place of His Presence when we walk in Him, and He wants to bring hope and help wherever we go. God wants to affect change in every area!!! What a wonderful way of looking at missions! And, as for worship...it's totally a lifestyle. Worship isn't about just singing a song to God, it's about living out that favorite song of our hearts in obedience to the King by loving Him and others.

Yes, God wants to expand our territories and bring in His Kingdom in every area. It's good and right to explore our hearts before the King. He's taking us places. One step at a time.

Missionary/Transitional Housing Idea

2011-09-03T20:24:00.001-05:00

I am inquiring seriously and praying today in the Spirit about missionary/transitional housing for women and men in ministry. God just deposited this full fledged in my heart today, but it's something that has been growing for this past year.

I really valued my sorority in college at UIUC---Stratford House. It was a time of communal living--growing together in Christ. There were 30 of us girls in one house, and there was a guys' house next door, too, Koinonia.

I am praying today about the idea of buying/renting real estate property and opening up a home for 3-4 other girls who want to grow in fellowship with the Lord and serve one another, the church, and community. (Would be great to have more...depends on the house!). I see the home being a set apart fellowship house, where the tenants work, serve, study, and give of themselve to others in Christ. I also see the benefits of having a place of unity for fellowship in genuine Christ centered friendships.

So, I'm just praying about this today. I have met so many ladies who are transitioning these days! Amazing women of God!!! If I had a house, I think it would be amazing to have a home fellowship for a season for those who are CALLED INTO MINISTRY and WHO ARE SERVING. A place where the ladies can receive encouragement and grow in their giftings and callings and run to share the Gospel of Christ to the highways, byways...to the ends of the earth...all the way HOME. Praying.

Divinely Guided

2011-09-02T21:24:00.014-05:00

I ran into this card in the parking lot of a random place today. I started walking by, and it caught my attention, so I bent down and read it. Then I picked it up because I knew it was for me! :D I was going to keep it, but I realized that just as it had blessed my day, perhaps it would also bless another's day.

I didn't see it then, but there's a little extra color in this picture! :D

Une petite fleur tres jolie! :D

Le Mot de Jour!

It's really amazing how God just wanted to remind me today in such a random way that He is Divinely directing my steps alway, all the Way Home...

Job 23:10
But He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold.

My Cell Phone Broke Today...

2011-09-01T15:47:00.002-05:00

So, in the midst of a decision crisis, my cell phone slipped out of my hand and fell to the ground and broke in half today. Today of all days. I was in the midst of trying to make a pressing decision. Strangely enough, in lieu of only having $35 to my name, knowing that the cell was a livelihood for me to get sub jobs, I wasn't panicking or freaking out, though. I was just oddly at peace. That's what supernatural peace feels like that guards our heart in Christ Jesus. It's a crazy knowing that all is going to work out okay, in advance, so it just rests in the midst of crises.

Well, after school, I went to the nearest Verizon, and they couldn't help me, but advised me to check out a Yackety Yak nearby. So, I did.

When I walked in the sales person looked at the Verizon phones and told me that the cheapest one they had began at 49.99. I knew I couldn't afford it. He went to the back to try and download my contacts for me, and I start to get on the store's internet. In the mean time he comes back out and tells me that he can't download my contacts. Along this whole while was learning that he's a brother in Christ, and I felt led to get his opinion about a decision I was trying to make in the midst of this phone ordeal.

It so happens that through that, he feels led to share some things minorly on his end, too, about his relationship with the Father. So, in the end, I realized that God had me go there to encourage him. So, I asked him if I could pray for him, and during that prayer, I learn he has a family, so I pray for them. Then, I turned to leave. But, I wanted to check my email first on their computer.

Well, while I'm doing that, some other thing comes up where I begin talking to him again. And, suddenly, he says to me, "If I paid 20 dollars for the phone, could you afford to pay the rest?" And, then he change the number to "25 dollars." And, I was like, "Yes!" I had $30 dollars from the $35 that I was going to by faith use for the replacement phone. And, so, Antoine, the Yackaty Yak sales man gave me $24.00, then when realized he needed to fully obey, another dollar, from his wallet!!! He put that cash in my hands, and I was able to add $30 to it. My cell phone cost me $54.07 cents. That extra dollar was necessary in the end, after all! That is why the Lord said $25 and not $24! But, I was just blown away by the fact that the sales person was feeling led to help me buy a replacement phone!!! WOW!!!! He said that he had to obey. And, he shared about how his faith was encouraged.... I was totally amazed at how God provided a replacement phone for me today, AND I still had $5 left to my name!!!

It's amazing, really, how God works.

HE IS MY PROVIDER!!!!!!!

Thank you, Lord! FOR TAKING CARE OF ME!!!!!!!
In Jesus' Name, amen.

Psalm 106:1-2
Praise the LORD. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; His love endures forever. Who can proclaim the mighty acts of the LORD or fully declare His praise?

What's Happening This Week 2

2011-08-31T21:41:00.008-05:00

Tomorrow night I start my very first Gateway Vocals Choir rehearsal! :)
I am excited. I'm really looking forward to it. During worship evaluations a few weeks ago, I met some incredible new friends who have hearts for worship. I'm looking forward to the fellowship each week, as we spend time worshiping God together and rehearsing worship songs together. :D It's going to be SOOOOOOOOOOOO AMAZING and FUN! :D

Also, I gave GSA (the single's group at church) a second try. I was excited to find the second time around that it was not about pick up lines! I met some more people in our small group that attended CFNI years ago, and it was really fun and natural to get to know them better. It's really amazing how the Lord is using me and where He has me to bring encouragement into others' lives. God always does EVERYTHING well.

Yesterday and today I had the peculiar opportunity to be real and connect with someone from home that God had me get in touch with. It's amazing how humbling circumstances strips away all masks, and somehow God brings grace upon grace upon grace. I'm so thankful for God's favor and mercy and grace. God blessed me with this connection this week. God truly has a time and purpose for EVERYTHING under heaven.

All glory to the highly exalted Name of Jesus Christ! In Jesus' Name, amen.

(The following is written today, Friday, Sept. 2, 2011, as an update).

So, last evening's worship choir practice was SOOOOOO much fun, indeed! I met some really incredible people, and I got to say hi to a couple of people I've been getting to know better! I love how God always provides us with new friends on this journey! :D

While there, we got to share praise reports. I shared about the Yackaty-Yak Man, Antoine! :) What was really cool was that during the evening, a lady came by and gave me a business card. She told me that if I were interested in subbing for the private school to give her a call. She is the grade school principal of the private school! So, I sent her an email last evening letting her know I am interested. She informed me that the Holy Spirit had led her to give me the card. I thought that was SO cool! God really does know how to connect us with others FOR HIS plans and purposes. I'm so THANKFUL for God's leading. And, he's doing it all through connections within my church! (Even my current sub opportunity came from a connection at church!). Yes, where God guides, God provides!

This Week's Happenings

2011-08-31T21:17:00.013-05:00

I've been subbing all week in a high school English class.
I'm in my element.
I'm inspired by the students in class.
They are so smart.
We've been discussing "Harrison Bergeron" this week.
What does it mean to live in a society that values radical mediocrity?
Is there such a thing as being "average" and "normal"?
Or, are we all called for the extraordinary?

Of course, we're all called for the extraordinary...

I didn't need to go to government school to talk about our national issues.
Just one short story with a classroom full of teens, and voila, future generations
are considering the affects of current laws and bills in our country. There is hope.

I miss teaching.
Yesterday I taught MLA format to the students.
And, you know what?
They got it.
And, I actually enjoyed telling them repeatedly where the period goes.
I thought that after years of term paper I'd never want to grade parenthetical references again.
But, honestly, it was exciting to watch these kids learn how to accurately cite their work.
Hahahah. I know. That sounds nerdy.
But, it's true.
It was exciting to me, when they learned how to do it. :)

Tomorrow, we begin discussing ordinary heroes.

I really love my job.
God knew I would.
It's an amazing work He's given me.
I'm so thankful.

Truth

2011-08-30T23:47:00.009-05:00

Sometimes we can't find our voices
Because time hasn't opened the door
For Truth in season to be revealed
So the heart remains full
And concealed
For another minute
While Holy Fire stirs hotter, brighter, clearer
In our hidden hearts

Sometimes, without words,
The waiting season yields...
Truth---
Expressed
Through patience, rest, and temperance
Through self-denial
Yes, the Trial by Fire
Through a thousands standings in the flame
Where Truth, refined, remains---
Seen by all
But not given a voice
Not in that season, anyway.
Instead,
It's LIVED.

By: Christine Craig
Aug. 30, 2011

Surrender

2011-08-30T21:52:00.016-05:00

I remember the taste of dreamsicle ice cream bringing delight to my day
The way dew would feel under my feet,
Causing me to wake up way early in the mornings,
So I could eat cinnamon butter toast for breakfast outside before walking to school
I remember chasing oil spills in side walks just so I could find rainbows
And, I loved my first pair of roller skates whose metal tops cut into my bare feet
Because nobody told me to wear them with shoes.

Sometimes I miss that girl.

So carefree.

The one who took risks and dared to do anything.
Whose dreams literally were about jumping on top of buildings
Who took time to scale the walls like spider man with her brothers
Who dared her younger brother to climb the tallest tree on the way home from school, Not realizing it was also the sappiest
The girl who collected friendships like they were abundant rare jewels
And who knew how to make people feel comfortable in their own skin because Sometimes
People could be so afraid of just being real, because being real... hurt

But, the girl began growing up. That's what we all do.
Even the Peter Pans of this world.

It's not a sad thing.
It's a good thing.

Growing up doesn't eliminate the delights of yesterday, but it adds responsibility.

The daring in my life has turned to radical faith put to radical actions
The dreams of jumping on top of buildings have transitioned...
Now I take leaps of faith and scale mountains
Today instead of just collecting friendships
I am learning to introduce my Forever Friend to them on this journey Home
And, I find that their hearts burn for community with Him
My friendship circle, my family circle...
It has widened. It has deepened. It has become more full.
And, today, when people get comfortable in their own skin...
They still get afraid...there still is pain.
But, there is always prayer.
There is always hope.
There is always Love.
And, Love overcomes
And covers all.
Love never fails.

Today I'm a woman.
But, not ordinary.
I'm peculiar.
And, precious.
In my Father's eyes.
I am His daughter; HE is my Father-God.
He has given me His eyes and heart.

I cry when I see homeless children trying to be brave going through foster care
I cry when I see hurting women pretending like divorce didn't break their hearts
I cry when I see men trying to hide their embarrassment from job loss and no answers
I cry when I see my country getting confused about what is right, important, and just

And, something deep inside is stirred...
My desire

I want to take my faith in Christ and live deliberately and carefree
All the days, all the Way Home.

I saw a spread of sprinklers tonight on the lawn.
If I weren't in my school clothes I was going to run through them!
Instead, I went to touch the spray of water coming out of one
I was caught by someone walking by
I could tell she wanted to run through the sprinklers, too!

That's how it is when we become full of Life and Water
The Rivers of Life inside of us...others want that spray.
God has purposed for us to be vessles of His Living Water, after all.

I am happy tonight.
I surrender.
I rejoice in how today holds mysteries that tomorrow will unfold
I'm ready to rest.
Peace.

~Christine

10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)

2011-08-29T06:59:00.001-05:00

I love, love, love this song!!!!!!!

"10,000 Reasons" by Matt Redman

"Grace" by Laura Story

2011-08-24T19:26:00.005-05:00

I am blown away by Your Love, Oh Lord.
You cover and heal me
Your patience is far-reaching,
Totally going to the core of my heart
The part of me that cries out to You
Hungry, tired, weak, broken
And, You hold me

Your grace sustains me
Your grace reminds me
This journey began at the cross-
Yours, and now mine

I follow You
I love You completely.

In Jesus' Name, amen.

By: Christine Craig
August 24, 2011

Excellent Boaz Qualifications!

2011-08-23T22:03:00.001-05:00

Check out the qualities of a man worth waiting for!

Boaz

Alabaster Jar

2011-08-23T21:13:00.001-05:00

It's honestly all I have left that is of worth...I worship You, Jesus.
Alway...all the way Home.

So in the Right Place

2011-08-23T08:05:00.003-05:00

This morning, I'm so in the right place. And, I almost feel normal...if not totally challenged by the Godly men I've witnessed this morning around me.

I decided to get breakfast, and while sitting here, a guy walked up behind me with his leather bound, well worn Bible. It just encouraged me. I don't normally see that.

And, then just now as I was finishing the touches on the other blog post, I noticed that the guy in front of me bowed his head before he ate his breakfast to pray.

I feel really encouraged by seeing the men of God putting Jesus FIRST in their day! :D These actions I witnessed in them felt like they were are all about honoring God and putting Him first. I have been greatly encouraged, and this morning, I feel like I am so in the right place. I needed to see this! :D

For the Sake of the Call

2011-08-21T21:11:00.001-05:00

"We will abandon it all...For the sake of the call!"

This Evening's Assignment

2011-08-20T22:31:00.005-05:00

So, I was sitting here at a bookstore, and suddenly a group of teen guys were near me, and one of them kept speaking some violent things. So, it caught my attention. Before I know it, the trio is gathered around me, and we're talking, and I'm sharing about Jesus Christ. They were acting saved, so I just went with it and encouraged them to read the Word and pray. But, then the Lord told me to speak to them about how to receive salvation. And, so I told them that before they went to sleep tonight, if they weren't saved, they could pray...But, then suddenly the Lord told me to ask one of them if he wanted salvation...And, sure enough, Matthew R. did! So, he prayed to receive Jesus Christ as His Savior. Then, the Lord had me ask Steven C. if he was saved. And, he shook his head no. And, the Lord had me ask him if he wanted salvation. And, he said, yes! So, he prayed!!! And, then, finally...Bobby G. The guy who first I was talking to, the one who said he knew the Lord, and yet, he was speaking improper things from his mouth. I felt led to ask him if he wanted to recommit his heart to Christ. And, he said, yes. So, he prayed!!!!

WOW!!!

Three teenage guys received Jesus Christ as their Savior tonight. After they prayed. The Lord had me pray over them and release some words of knowledge over them, as for gifts and callings he has for these guys. Wow! It was a powerful time!!! Right here in the kids section of the bookstore. God is so amazing!

Lord, please be with each of these guys. Bless and keep them, Lord, in You, Jesus! In Jesus' Name, amen.

"Sincerely"--New Piano Song

2011-08-20T21:00:00.004-05:00

This song just came to me last evening.

Piano Rain Songs

2011-08-19T23:11:00.005-05:00

I recorded both of these songs spontaneously on the piano a few years ago. I was trying an experiment. I turned the volume down entirely, and I just played in the Spirit and recorded. After I was finished, I turned up the volume and listened to the recording, and these are what I heard. I did this for both songs... God is so truly amazing!!!
The first song is called: "A Meeting in the Rain"
The second song is called: "Walking Home Through the Rain":D

"One Thirst"

2011-08-19T21:53:00.001-05:00

This song is incredibly powerful...
It's a song to listen to while facedown before the King in worship...

Thoughts on Marriage Preparation and Update on Visiting with Family

2011-08-19T12:26:00.011-05:00

Recently a new friend and I were talking about the difference between neediness and learning that there is a vital God-given need for a husband. I think one is immaturity and overdependency. The other a vulnerable honesty. I think only those who are truly being prepared in the heart for marriage understand that raw vulnerability of the need for a husband.

Women in my generation were told to stand alone, be strong, be capable, not need anyone. And, well, I'm not a feminist by any means, but I bought into that lie. I was afraid that if I somehow allowed myself to be vulnerable that I would be weak. And, that with weakness, I would somehow get hurt.

I think that self-protected women all over the world are getting hurt because they have bought into the lie that they don't need anyone to take care of them. It just isn't true. God called us women to be covered, to need a covering. Whether it's just Jesus Christ alone, for those called to singlehood, or for a man's covering, I believe every one of us ladies have that NEED.

Today my brother blessed me by putting gas in my car, buying me beef jerkey as a snack on the road, and giving me some money. As I sat in the car, and he filled my gas tank, something inside of me felt like God was using that moment to show me something more that HE is doing and has done in my life. I truly just embraced the moment, full of thanksgiving to God for using my brother to teach me the sacred things He is teaching me to prepare me for the days ahead. I am thankful for my brother and sister in law! God bless them both and their whole family! In Jesus' Name, amen.

This has been a lovely trip back visiting with my family. Yesterday, my brother grilled filet mignon's and my sister in law made an awesome mint orange tea drink for the luncheon we had at the house with several of the church ladies. It was a lot of FUN!!!

Also, last evening, I got to go with my oldest niece and sis in law to see where Courtney will be heading into middle school next week! 6th grade! She is growing up so fast! :)
Here is a picture of Christina, my sister in law, and Courtney, my niece:

Also, I got to spend time last evening praying with my nephew Sammy who told me that when he grows up he wants to do something for the United States. I was like...Lord, he also has a heart for our nation! And, he is only 4!!! So, we prayed together. He wanted to pray for those who lost their homes in the "tormato" (tornado). So, he prayed, and I agreed with him. I love praying with him! Baby Elijah is also growing big, and he loves cookie dough, it seems. While making cookies last night, he grabbed himself a ballful on the cookie sheet, I had to pry it out of his hands and mouth. I would have let him just indulge, but I didn't think his mommy would want him eating cookie dough. He's almost walking now! And, Kaitlyn is one cooking machine! Her specialty? Eggs. Eggs for all. Scambled. :) But, she helped me make chile sauce for chile dogs the other night, and she helped me put the cookie dough on the cookie sheets. It was fun bonding with her while cooking. I'm glad I came to visit my family for a while. I love them very much!!!! :)

I'll be heading back early tomorrow morning. I have an altar ministry meeting at church, or I would be tempted to stay an extra day. But, I believe God wants me to take that training, so that in the coming days I can serve in prayer up at the altar. One step at a time, God is leading. Also, I start substituting next week. :) Looking forward to the days ahead! :)

Let It Heal

2011-08-18T23:44:00.007-05:00

I close my eyes tonight
And remember I'm trying to forget
My brain and heart will reconcile
And eventually pass the test
Of release
Of letting go
Of saying no
Of beholding only the face of Grace.

But unfinished heartache
Tries to embrace my present peace
And it keeps me wrestling deep
---Where truth lies dormant, asleep.

Awake, awake already
And, tear down walls--just feel
Honestly let Truth touch the pain...
---Let it heal.

By: Christine Ann Craig
Aug. 18, 2011
11:54 P.M.

"Laughing Fire"

2011-08-18T23:24:00.011-05:00

"Laughing Fire"
By: Ruth Bell Graham

You look at me and see my flaws;
I look at you and see flaws, too.

Those who love, know love deserves a second glance;
each failure serves another chance.

Love looks beyond the scars and flaws;
the cause and scars become an honorable badge
of battles fought and won (or lost), but fought!

The product, not the cost, is what love sought.

Wait

2011-08-18T22:24:00.007-05:00

I have never heard this song by Steven Curtis Chapman, but it is so incredibly timely in my life. What can I say...I am learning the greatest lessons by waiting on the Lord. I think the most important one is exactly how much I love Him. I love Jesus. Because He first loved me. This waiting season is so transforming. Whatever the cost. YES. I will follow Him. He is my Lord. And, I wait for Him.

This is also a good one...

Family Time and Update

2011-08-18T01:31:00.005-05:00

I'm down in Alvin visiting the kiddos and my brother and sister in law for the rest of this week. I'm so THANKFUL for them!!! :) I'll try to get some recent pictures uploaded! Everyone is growing up SO fast these days!!! :)

Some things just naturally fall into place, kinda like a next natural step. While down here, I got a reminder email from my church telling me about the training for pastoral care/altar ministry team that is happening this weekend. After getting trained, I will be able to serve on the altar ministry team for Pink Impact, a lady's ministry. I look forward to this opportunity of serving.

Monday, I begin substituting again. I think that will be amazingly FUN! :)

I'm glad for this break back with my family to REST before school starts. I love how God supplies for all our needs. He is such an amazing, loving God! :)

PS God challenged me today on my way down here to read more of His Word. I look forward to spending quality time with His Word in the coming days, as well. I think it would be good if we all would spend some more quality time in His Presence with His Word. He has MUCH He wants to share with us, and He wants to fill us with His Truth.

Beautiful Lyrical Prayer for Future Husband

2011-08-16T17:53:00.005-05:00

I came across this poem today, and my heart echoes it. Richly, deeply. The work of preparation for marriage is deep. Only God knows how to prepare a woman's heart for her mate. When I was younger, I used to make a different kind of list...But today, I read this poem, and I knew...Yes...this is the kind of list that the Lord wants to burn deep inside my heart.

Dear God, I prayed, all unafraid
(as we’re inclined to do),
I do not need a handsome man
but let him be like You;
I do not need one big and strong
nor yet so very tall,
nor need he be some genius,
or wealthy, Lord, at all;
but let his head be high, dear God,
and let his eye be clear,
his shoulders straight, whate’er his state,
whate’er his earthly sphere;
and let his face have character,
a ruggedness of soul,
and let his whole life show, dear God,
a singleness of goal;
then when he comes
(as he will come)
with quiet eyes aglow,
I’ll understand that he’s the man
I prayed for long ago.

Who is the author of this poem?

Ruth Bell...Graham.
Yes, Billy Graham's wife.

I've met a new mentor today! :)

Confirmation and Testimony

2011-08-16T07:04:00.003-05:00

This morning, I am getting ready to go to the sub office to get a new badge for the school year and to sign paperwork. As I am waiting, I ran into a principal in this school district that I very deeply respect and admire. God spoke to me about leadership again today and putting first things first. Whereas I didn't look directly at the book she was reading, from my periphery, it looked and sounded like a Bible. :) I am so thankful for God's confirmation first thing this morning, for decisions I made yesterday.

Also, I have a testimony.

Yesterday while I was still struggling to decide whether or not to go to school, I received an email back from someone regarding housing. Well, I ended up calling the person to check on it. And, it was obvious from the very start that I would NOT be accepting any housing from the person; however, it was a divine appointment to pray for the person and his family.

This morning, I received a note from the person regarding the conversation, and I was able to encourage and challenge the person to seek God's face for their family.

God is SO amazing!!!

He would appoint a random phone conversation to bring TRUTH, LIGHT, and LIFE into the lives of His people!!! Yes. GOD LOVES US!!!!!!!

John 16:13

2011-08-16T05:49:00.009-05:00

But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; He will speak only what He hears, and He will tell you what is yet to come.

John 10:3-5

2011-08-16T05:49:00.008-05:00

"The watchman opens the gate for Him, and the sheep listen to His voice. He calls His own sheep by name and leads them out. When He has brought out all His own, He goes on ahead of them, and His sheep follow Him because they know His voice. But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.”

Final Decision

2011-08-15T21:51:00.006-05:00

I made my decision today... I am trusting God for my next step. And, at this time, He has me at Gateway Church. So, I am going to stay the course. Although it was incredibly hard, and at times, even right now, I feel a little sad, I have decided to withdraw my application from the school of government; therefore, they will withdraw my acceptance. It seemed like the WISEST choice to make, although TOTALLY not easy.

Going to the school would have given me a "next step," and it would have answered a lot of my questions. In so many ways, I wanted it to be the next step for me. But, I couldn't get the peace I needed to move forward in commitment, especially with the finances. But, I met some truly incredible people!!! It was so hard to let all this go, as even over the phone I felt like I was meeting some incredible new colleagues and potential government friends. I hope that somehow we can remain connected.

But, also, I've been carrying something...a heart for our nation. For seeing justice. for Truth to be unveiled in our country. Leadership. I didn't know if this somehow meant that I was letting something go that was very valuable and precious.

But, I have to believe that if God deposited the seeds in me for me to speak and stand up for His Truth in our nation, then HE WILL make a way for me to speak and share His heart, light, and Life, in His perfect timing. I won't be able to miss Him. So, I choose to continue carrying all that He's been depositing and stirring in my heart in intercession, while I wait for God's appointed timing. God will fulfill His plans for me; I trust Him. So, I will release all this into His capable hands. I know that if God wanted me to go to school, I wouldn't have been able to miss it. I can trust that anything that I'd miss out on (and it does make me sad because it feels like an opportunity that is now lost, and it was such an INCREDIBLE opportunity to love, serve, and stand for my country!!!!), that God in His Sovereignty is working it all out for good for all of us! One thing is for certain...I've never cried for a nation of people before because I feel so responsible. And, as I'm writing this, I'm in tears. Yes, it's true. The United States is the nation of my heart, and God has given me HIS LOVE for our nation. May His Kingdom come, His will be done in our nation. And, as the Lord wills and chooses, may He use me. I am willing. Thank you for the LOVE for the people of my country, Lord. I love You! In Jesus' Name, amen.

So, here I am again, back at the waiting place. But, this place is becoming a place of greater wisdom for me these days. I am still without answers for the days ahead, but I am beginning to realize that perhaps I don't need to know until God makes it so clear that it's time to step into a new season. So, I'll stay the course and trust God. He is leading me.

Thanks for all your prayers, everyone!

PS As I finish this blog post, I realize that in letting this opportunity go, I have learned how deeply I do love our nation and how deeply I feel responsible for the plans and purposes God has for our country to know of His Light and LIFE. I feel as if my heart just got expanded deeply. That's how it is with letting go, sometimes. We learn the depths of God's love.

Evening Evangelism

2011-08-15T01:15:00.004-05:00

Tonight is another one of those evenings where I'm being led by the Holy Spirit. I just left a restaurant where I've been building rapport with a couple of the workers there over the course of the last 7 months or so. I felt led to ask them if they were willing to receive an invitation from my church if I gave it to them. And, they both were very willing. :) I didn't know that was God's plan for me when I grabbed a stack of invites this evening at church for our new series on salvation. When I gave it to the guys, I gave them an extra one, as well, for another person who works there because he wasn't there tonight. They began reading it immediately and looking interested. One of them is a Muslim. I really do hope that they will consider coming to church!!! Holy Spirit, please direct them!

Also, earlier tonight, I was asked by someone in drive-thru where I worked. And, I told him subbing, and that I was often coming through the drive-thru because my church is nearby. I have been building rapport with this worker, as well. When he asked if I was attending the church across the highway, I told him, yes, that was my home church. And, I asked if I could give him something. He was willing. So, I handed him an invitation to come to the new series. He asked what the times were!!! :D That was a very good signal to me that God is working!!! :D I gave him an extra invite, as well, encouraging him to give it to a friend. :)

Lord, You know what You are doing in each of these men's lives. Please draw them to service. Please reveal Yourself to them. Thank You in advance for their salvations. I believe that YOU are going to change EACH of their lives!!! Thank You, Lord! In Jesus' Name, amen.

Piano Worship

2011-08-14T22:16:00.008-05:00

Last fall, while I was visiting my hometown, I ended up at a local coffee shop. They let me play on their piano, and I was so excited! :D

This is just a "suddenly" song that came from my Spirit.

"Listen...Be Still"

A Montage of Brainstorming New Songs During Worship...

2011-08-14T20:29:00.009-05:00

Yesterday, I was spending some time in worship and brainstorming new songs, recorded from the top of my heart... Totally of the moment... flat notes and all! lol! In any case, I love singing new songs to the Lord! :D Oh, yeah! I thought it was cool that through some of the recording you can hear what was happening on the other side of the wall, as others were practicing their instruments in worship to the King... :)

Habitation Service--In His Presence

2011-08-14T16:03:00.002-05:00

Check out my most recent favorite service at my church!!! :)

July Habitation Service

"I Will Trust in Your Faithfulness"--New Song

2011-08-13T11:40:00.011-05:00

I was sitting in a parking garage this morning, sheltered from the RAIN that finally came to Texas! :)

I just opened up my Garageband program and sang this song from the top of my heart. (the first time is the original, I sing it several times here). Overall, I think this is a poor recording, as the sound quality goes in and out (not sure if better with or without headphones!), but I hope it still blesses you and encourages you to TRUST in our FAITHFUL God who REIGNS!!! :D I'm just excited about how God downloads new songs in unexpected places and times! :)

I will trust in Your faithfulness, Oh God
For You have been so good to me
You have rescued me from my enemies
Placed my feet upon the Solid Rock

So I will stand and praise You
I will glorify Your Name
Let Your kingdom come,
My Holy God reigns!

I will stand and praise You
I will glorify Your Name
Til Your Kingdom comes on the earth...
Yes! My God reigns!

Worship Evaluation

2011-08-12T01:28:00.003-05:00

Wow! I had SO much FUN tonight!!! I got to meet and hang with gifted/talented/amazing songwriters/worshipers!!!! :)

We were recording our 3 songs tonight on video to be evaluated by the worship department. It was my first time of ever wearing an ear bud (SO FUN!!!). I loved being able to sing and worship God! :D

The whole evening was full of amazing fun and His Spirit! I got to hear a new song on the acoustic guitar by a very gifted songwriter. I got to share one of mine, as well. Also, I got to pray for someone whom the Lord deeply loves and is doing an amazing work in her life!!! :D

I met new worship friends, and I really enjoyed everything that we were doing together! I look forward to God building those relationships in the future as He leads and wills! :)

What a very awesome night! I loved going through evaluations with the worship department of my church. Looking forward to more opportunities of growing with them, as the Lord leads.

Wisdom for Christ-Centered Marriage (#1)

2011-08-11T09:38:00.007-05:00

Yesterday, I picked up the copy of Eric and Leslie Ludy's book--The First 90 Days of Marriage. Today, I am looking over the book again. As I am skimming through the pages, I am running across some key points that I am taking before the Lord.

As a result, He is revealing some key truths to me by the power of the Holy Spirit in regards to having a marriage that is Christ-centered. I've taken a moment to jot some things down here below on a key point of wisdom for a Christ-centered marriage.

1. Don't let the sun go down on your anger...don't give the enemy a foothold.
There WILL be conflicts in every relationship. But, it's all about HOW we work
through the conflicts that gives God glory and leaves no breach for the enemy.
Preferring UNITY at all costs, even to sleep, is worth it!!! Unselfish, Christ-
centered LOVE is willing to work through EVERY conflict, no matter how long it
takes.

LOVE does not ignore or avoid dealing with conflicts. That is fear. LOVE does
everything it can to make room for healing and God's Truth to enter in.

Practice UNITY and LOVE today by honestly looking those you love around you in the
eye, and seeing them. Seeing God's destiny and heart for them. If there is any
conflict, be brave and courageous, and with humility, prayer, and LOVE, talk it
out. Don't run away from the truth. Lies are short-lived, and it simply wastes
time, because lies can never cover the truth. Truth ALWAYS comes out and WINS! :)
How much better it is to let the Holy Spirit build the character strength and
Christ-centered integrity in our lives by quickly dealing with issues, rather than
selfishly holding grudges and bitterness that only waste time and hurt others.
Those who champion the work of Jesus Christ on the cross will promote LOVE. And,
they will be willing to lay down THEIR lives to see that LOVE bear fruit in others'
lives. It's God's way.

Random Thoughts on LOVE from Today's Experiences

2011-08-10T20:37:00.004-05:00

During High Noon Prayer today, the focus was on LOVE. God had me pray out specifically regarding restoration of families and how LOVE happens in the home between husbands and wives and within families, as people are willing to come to the table and look each other bravely in the eye and FORGIVE.

The Lord placed on my heart that we had to be willing to let down our self-made walls of protection and to allow the Lord to break down the strongholds of the enemy's lies that were able to enter in through breaches in our Godly walls.

God wants to expose the lies and reveal what causes breaches in the walls of protection He has over our lives. God is calling us to be restorers of the broken walls. We are called to tear down the fake walls made by self that hide the enemies' lies that trap us inside, and we are to boldly and bravely stand in that very place where the breaches were created and to REPENT and then ask the Lord to give us the TRUTH to build up HIS WALLS of Holy protection, honor, truth, and FIRE in the Holy Spirit. God is out to RESTORE and showcase HIS LOVE. Lavishly.

Tonight, I was also given opportunities to showcase His LOVE to others around me. I won't tell you how, but I will tell you that it was all GOD, and that the people whose lives it touched were affected by His random acts of LOVE. We need to be alert. People around us are needing the Love of Jesus Christ. We are called to give HIS LOVE.
The very love that we see lacking all around us is the VERY LOVE OF GOD that Jesus Christ is calling us to GIVE to others.

We are able to LOVE because we can lay down our lives and our selfishness. We can allow others to offend us and still LOVE them and not be affected by anything they meant for harm because LOVE sees the TRUTH of Jesus Christ's sacrifice for us and overcomes the pettiness of our own flesh.

We're in a society where LOVE is mocked these days. Even churches are putting down LOVE, declaring that it's somehow showing weakness, instead of TRUTH. But, I truly believe that LOVE can never be wrong. LOVE always overcomes. Always endures. As a matter of fact, if the only thing we have is LOVE, then we have EVERYTHING, because GOD IS LOVE. And, there is NOTHING that we can do that will be worth anything without LOVE.

In regards to LOVE in relationships, I have a few thoughts, as well...

LOVE is honest.
LOVE has this amazing way of LOOKING YOU STRAIGHT IN THE EYE.
LOVE has an incredible way of ignoring the offense someone purposely set out to hurt
you with.
LOVE has a way of covering a multitude of sins.

God's Love is lavish, indeed. Thank You, Lord, for today's prayer time being about LOVE and unveiling YOUR HEART to us. May Your LOVE surround us as the fragrance of LIFE eternal in Jesus Christ our Lord. In Jesus' Name, amen.

Family

2011-08-08T21:01:00.002-05:00

This post is going to be all about family.

God totally expanded my heart this trip back home...for my family. THEY were the ones whom God used to provide for me and encourage me. Yes, there were friends that I spent time with, too, who are like family, so I am going to add them into that mix. It was the honest heart to heart times with my dad, cousins, brother, aunts, and best friend that made this trip incredible to me.

My family has endured much brokenness. But, I truly believe that God is doing something new. When I can look at my family members in the eye and speak the truth from my heart, I know that God is up to something really good. On so many random and special occasions in the past two weeks, that is exactly what happened, and God was glorified every time. There were many moments of prayer throughout this trip with my family members. It was really amazing!

But, what makes me get kinda teary-eyed right now is realizing that THEY blessed and served me on this trip home in ways that totally touched my heart. I am very thankful, and I praise GOD for blessing me with such an amazing trip back home.

I love my family.

God bless my family. In Jesus' Name, amen.

Truth

2011-08-08T08:37:00.005-05:00

Truth always stands the test of time.

"Our Eyes Are On You"---A New Song

2011-08-06T10:14:00.002-05:00

Shared originally on Sunday, March 7, 2010 at 7:23am
Reposted today as a Prayer for our country...

In these times of darkness
When questions stir inside
Calm our anxious hearts, Lord
Let Your Truth arise

In this restless space
Let us hear Your gentle voice
Comfort, peace, and guidance
Cut through this helpless noise

Chorus:
Our eyes are on You
You are our only hope
Our eyes are on You
You are our only Way

We have no power on our own
To help us see this through
We don't know what to do
Our eyes are on You

Written By: Christine Craig
Jan. 12, 2010

The Response Reminder--August 6

2011-08-06T07:20:00.006-05:00

Good morning, everyone! :)

Take a moment right now to join with me and others across our nation in worshiping our awesome, Holy God by taking part with The Response Live Webstream here.

Today is a SPECIAL day highlighted and marked by leaders in our nation for us to seek God's face in solemn assembly. National leaders have organized and set apart this day as a day of prayer and fasting, so that we as a body of Christ may seek and meet our Father in intercession for our country. This is a day where we are encouraged to confess our sins and humble ourselves before God and to seek Him about the crises we are facing in our nation. May we all set aside a time of meeting God today, if not spending the day in prayer. God bless you!

PRAYING!!!!!!!

King of Kings

2011-08-02T21:54:00.010-05:00

Verse 1:
I will praise You in the sanctuary
I will lift Your Holy Name on high
I will glory in Your Truth and majesty
King of kings, Lord of lords,
Jesus Christ

Chorus:
Let Your Kingdom come
Let Your will be done
On earth
As it is in Heaven

Let Your Kingdom come
Let Your will be done
In our hearts, Lord,
In our lives

Verse 2:
I will seek You in the quiet hours
I will trust Your heart at all times
I will lift Your Holy Name in honor and praise
King of kings, Lord of lords,
Jesus Christ

By: CAC
August 2, 2010
11:18 p.m.

Wrapping Things Up on the Homefront

2011-08-02T09:36:00.004-05:00

I'm really glad that I came home for a visit. God did a lot here. From provision, to worship, to closing some more doors.

I asked you all to pray specifically for me. Those of you who have done that, I want to say thank you! :)

I am planning to head back to Dallas soon. God's Presence is beckoning me to move forward with Him. I look forward to the days ahead. :)

Thank you!
~Christine

It's Time

2011-08-01T17:55:00.003-05:00

It's time for vision to be made sight
It's time for darkness to be made Light
It's time to lift our Savior high!

It's time for hearts to be made whole
It's time for Hope to fill lost souls
It's time to lift Jesus high!

We lift You higher and higher!
We lift You higher and higher!
We lift You high, O Lord of LIFE

We lift You higher and higher
We lift You higher and higher
We lift You high, Lord Jesus Christ!

~CAC
Aug. 1, 2011

More Worship Excitement! :)

2011-08-01T10:33:00.004-05:00

I just got invited to have a jam session tonight with two other musicians and worshipers! :D We're going to meet at 8 this evening.
Looking forward! I am totally loving how God is connecting me with worshipers around me, and I'm finally able to meet acoustic guitar players and other singers. We are going to try and get a drummer to meet up tonight, as well! Yeh!!! Thanks, God!

I would have never expected the Lord to do all this, this week. But, it's HIS timing!!! God is MOVING.
Thanks, Lord!

2011-07-31T07:53:00.006-05:00

The morning brings me word of Your unfailing Love
From everlasting to everlasting
I am Yours, and You are mine

Your eyes are ever on me
Day after day, You watch over my life-
My coming in and my going out
You have ordained every step
And, I walk
In You
Toward You
Because You are LOVE
And, I am growing more and more
In Love
With You

Now Is the Time to Worship!

2011-07-30T21:00:00.008-05:00

WOW! As I was finishing up my earlier blog, I had the most amazing thing happen!

A guy randomly came up to me at the coffee shop, and he told me that he had heard that I was a worship leader...Would I be interested in joining their Bible Study and singing with them?

Wow...YES!!!

I met the acoustic guitar playing worship leader in the side room of the coffee shop, and he invited me to join him in leading worship today. I told him that I happened to have my keyboard in the back of my car, and they were shocked! Hahaha! :D Me, too. It was a total GOD THING that I had the keyboard with me, as I had JUST put it in my car from the storage shed before I left Dallas, thinking that I might need to sell it. (But, I quickly learned that God wouldn't let me. :)

So, I helped Ryan create a quick setlist for worship, and we were able to practice before the Bible Study began. It was SO MUCH FUN!!! I asked him if he knew "There is a River," and sure enough, he had a chord chart for it!!! We were totally on the same page! I couldn't believe it!!! I was SO excited to realize that OUT OF THE BLUE God had opened up an opportunity for me to help lead worship on the keys. :)

After worship time, I was able to share a testimony about one of the songs I've written, and I sang it for them. "Come to the Table."

What an AMAZING GOD we serve!!!

After the worship today, we hung out all day and spent time ministering to one another and praying. God allowed me to pray for many of the people in the group, and He confirmed to me through the mouths of others that God has given me a prayer ministry. It was truly incredible!!!

I wrote earlier this week that I believed GOD was going to do something amazing back here at home. And, every day it has been AMAZING!!! I am so excited about how God moves when we trust Him and obey by faith. Wow. What an incredible day it has been!!!

By the way, I didn't mention this earlier this week, but the reason the guy knew I was a worship leader was because 2 days ago God had led me to another coffee shop, and I got to pray for a girl who worked there after she got off work. She obviously had an amazing heart for worship, and I was so encouraged by her, as she also prayed for me. In any case, it so happened that the worship leader I met today was her friend. He had learned about me through her. So, today at a totally different coffee shop, I met him, and he told me he had heard how my testimony had greatly encouraged his friend the other day. So, that is how everything began. Isn't it amazing how God ordains our steps?!?!?!?!?

I just want to say...
TOTALLY, obeying God and following Jesus Christ is worth EVERY cost. He truly gives us LIFE and LIFE abundantly when we live for Him! :)

Psalm 86:9
All the nations You have made will come and worship before You, O Lord; they will bring glory to Your name.

Everyday Miracles When We Believe

2011-07-30T08:11:00.011-05:00

About 6 days ago I left Dallas with 28 dollars in my purse and a heart of FAITH. I headed to Illinois, BELIEVING that I WOULD get here and that when I did, God would have AMAZING things in store for me.

It took FAITH to believe that I could drive back home with NOTHING and be received as myself.

It took FAITH for me to believe that others loved me and would be willing to help me in my time of need by sowing unto God.

It took FAITH to believe that when people knew that I had no "success" stories of fame and "going somewhere" that they would see me where I am and totally love me where I am.

You see, it took MONTHS of stripping pride off me before I was ready to "come up from the desert, leaning on my Lover." I wasn't ready to go home 2 months ago because I was still so worried about what everyone thought. But this past Monday, I didn't care anymore about what anyone thought. All I knew was that I love God, and I missed everyone and wanted to see them and spend time with them, and no matter if they would understand my circumstances or not, I had to come home being fully myself, leaning on Jesus Christ.

And God has done AMAZING things.

Not only has God been providing for me, but He has been totally blessing me with every good and perfect gift from above. He's been giving me MERCY where I've made mistakes, covering my sins for me. He's been giving me GRACE where I need extra support and help. He's been giving me PROVISION that ONLY could come from Him. God has been so incredible here at home.

Yesterday I had a couple miracles in my life

For one, I should have been charged fees for something, but God's mercy covered me, and I wasn't charged fees. Secondly, I was able to get an oil change on my car for $18.50, and in Dallas, that would have been $32.00!!! I LOVE my car dealership in town. I saw a former student, and he was going to actually even check on going an extra mile for me about something. That blew me away. God wanted me to know that He was watching out for me.

Even beyond these two mega blessings, God blessed me in the most unexpected, GOD way!!!

I went to visit my former landlords to just catch up with them. They are an amazing older couple, whom God used to give me a place to live for 10 years in an apartment in their beautiful Victorian home at an amazing rent rate! Anyway, I arrived just as they were getting ready to eat lunch; I was going to come back later, but they invited me to eat dinner with them around their family table! (Reminded me of my song "Come to the Table." :) Well, we had some amazing conversations, catching up. Then, I was invited into the family room, and the lady of the house and I talked for a couple more hours, catching up about family, love, and life. It was such a FUN conversation! Around 2 more hours passed so easily! In any case, when it was time to go, I went to use the restroom, and she went to get me a lemon bar for the road. :) (They are so yummy!!!). Well, when I got out of the restroom, she asked me the quirkiest question: "Do you remember how much that check was that you wrote me?" I was like, huh? They were my landlords, so I wrote them checks before. I thought I'd missed giving them a full payment or something, which is not something that I would have ever done on purpose.

But, suddenly she reminded me.

She said, "The check you wrote and left us the day you moved." I had forgotten! God had led me to bless them with extra money when I left because for the 10 years I lived there, the rent was so amazing, AND they had never asked for a deposit or last month's rent.

She reminded me that I had left roses and a check for them. She told me that even then she didn't want to keep the check, but she wanted to give it back to me. And, then suddenly, she put money in my hands.

She said that she couldn't remember how much it was, but she wanted to give me that. I looked at her TOTALLY amazed, and I asked her, "Did you ask your husband?" LOL!!! She said that she didn't need to ask him. And, we began going back and forth about me receiving the money. And, I told her I wouldn't unless her husband said, "yes." :D

So, she went outside and asked him. When she came back in, she said that her husband would be coming in soon, and he would be disappointed if I didn't take the money. So, I asked if she asked him if I could have it, and what he said. She told me he said, "Definitely." WOW. It amazed me SOOOO much!!!

So, he did come back in and told me he was positive that I was to take the money. I couldn't believe it. I never expected my landlords to give me such a large amount of money.

That's when I realized that the PROVISION was made when I obeyed God 2 years ago. Although I didn't know then that I would be receiving part of it back, it was my obedience to the Lord that enabled them the opportunity to obey the Lord and give a blessing back to me. The verse about casting our bread upon the waters for after a few days we will find it again, totally came back to me. GOD provided for me because I cast my bread upon the water before in obedience and love for HIM and them. And, yesterday, the blessing was returned back to me.

I will be able to make it back to Dallas next week now...But, wow, I almost hesitate to go. Home has embraced me. Deeply and richly. Through friends and family. Open hearts. Amazing what reconciliation, truth, and spending time with people around the table in communion and love with Jesus Christ will do.

Last night, I attended a church service with some former pastors in my life, and God totally did a work there, too. My former pastor felt led to pray for me, for breakthrough. So, she had her husband play the song "Breakthrough" over the sound system while she prayed for me. The song lyrics totally blew me away, and her prayer was full of fire. I love this family very much. I love their hearts for God. I was so blessed to not only receive prayer last night, but the message was great, spending time with them was wonderful, and watching their new adopted daughter towards the end of the service, very rewarding. God absolutely blessed me. Truly, God provides everday miracles when we believe!

Dear Father, thank You for WHO YOU ARE and for EVERYTHING You have been doing in my life. I love You!!! THANK YOU!!!! In Jesus' Name, amen.

James 1:17
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, Who does not change like shifting shadows.

PS Please keep me in prayer for the coming days. Does God want me in Dallas? Or, does He want me staying here? Wherever HE leads me, Wherever HE plants me, that is where I will need to be. I trust my Father, and I wait for Him. What an amazing visit home this has been for me. I praise You, Lord! In Jesus' Name, amen.

Salvation!

2011-07-29T09:50:00.003-05:00

I came here to the coffee shop this morning, and I bumped into a former student of mine. Little did I know that GOD had a divine appointment for us to meet. The student shared with me that he didn't have to work today because of the heat index. I also learned later that he had felt compelled to walk 10 blocks to come to the coffee shop today. He said that when he rounded the corner of the block by the coffee shop, he saw a car and thought it looked familiar. He said there was something "special" about the car, and then he said that he realized who it belonged to. Wow! I never knew that people would pay attention to my car! :)

In any case, Johnathan V. gave his life to Jesus Christ today! :D

I am VERY thankful for the fruit God has been bearing back here at home during this visit. God is truly amazing!

Dear Father,
I thank you for Johnathan's life. I thank You for a new brother in Christ. I thank You for His salvation and all the plans that You have for Him. Please surround him with Your favor as with a shield. Bless His life, Lord, and use him for Your kingdom, for the sake of Your Name. I pray in Jesus' Name, amen.

Family

2011-07-28T22:18:00.002-05:00

This trip back to Illinois has been all about my family...WOW.

For the first time in my life, I've asked my family for help. I've never needed their help before. I was very capable of doing things on my own. Truth is, I was afraid that receiving help from them would make me weak, and I wanted to be strong, because at that time...it wasn't safe to be weak with my family.

But, times have changed.

And, honestly, I didn't ask my family for help this time at home because I felt weak, but because I knew that God had brought me to this very place to do just that, to ask them for help.

So, yesterday morning, with my gas tank set on almost "E" again, I asked my cousin and aunt for help. They each provided for me. Then, my brother from Texas provided for me.
Tonight, my dad and my youngest brother met up with me for Chinese food, and they each provided for me. As a matter of fact, they both went the extra mile with me. I am so amazed at God's goodness in using my family to provide for me this last leg of the wilderness.

You see, in all my strong, capable days, I never asked my family for help. I can't even remember a time I ever asked my dad for money. I didn't even ask this time. He just helped me... and this time, I received the help.

I totally believe that God is allowing me the amazing opportunity to live out the song that I wrote this fall..."Come to the Table." It's a song about communion. To me, it's a song about reconciliation, restoration, engagement, community, trust. I didn't know then that the song would make such an incredible impact on my life or the way I would engage with my family, but it has.

I love them all very much. I love what Jesus is doing in each of their lives and in my life as I open up and allow them the opportunity to really see me and have fellowship with me. God is truly doing a work of healing in all our lives. I am thankful! :)

Playing Mario golf right now with my cousin while finishing up this blog. Won the last round; just got a bogey this round. Better pay attention this round.

Family. Thanks, dear Lord! In Jesus' Name, amen.

Update from the Homefront

2011-07-28T06:43:00.003-05:00

So, yesterday I ran into a former teaching colleague at the coffee shop, and it was an amazing time of just sharing and learning what is going on with one another. We made plans to get together again next week for lunch. That was FUN! :)

Then, I came back over to my cousin's place, and we watched the High School Musical 2 while I took a mini nap.

After that, I went to church early for choir practice, but I learned we don't have practice, but I was granted permission to play the piano. So, I played for about 15 min.

Our church lesson last evening was from Leviticus 10, regarding Aaron's sons lighting unauthorized fire, and how they were disciplined for their disobedience, and how everyone learned publicly to respect and fear God.

My favorite verse from last night is Leviticus 10:10. The verse declares that the Levites are responsible for showing others the difference between what is sacred and common, and what is clean and unclean. It's very true. God will provide discernment for those whose desires are to walk in His holiness out of love and respect for Him, and through our obedience, we are then challenged to teach others about God's ways, as well.

Today I will be meeting a friend to go swimming, then I will be meeting my dad and my younger brother's family this evening to eat some Chinese food and hang out. I am looking forward to spending time with them. :)

Coming home has been a VERY good thing for me. I have missed seeing so many faces and places, and coming back to what is familiar gives me a moment of rest.

I'm wrestling while here about WHERE God would have me go. Is He leading me back home? Or, is He continuing to expand my territory and borders, and does He want me staying in Dallas?

Well, I do know one thing...
I've been thinking about my home church in Southlake throughout this week. I find myself being very thankful for all God is doing there. I didn't know if God was wrapping things up in Dallas area to send me back home, but I am seeing that some things at that church for me are JUST beginning, and it's not wrapping up.

I have plans on the 11th to take part in a worship evaluation at the church. It's the first step towards singing in the choir. I am thankful for the opportunity God gave me to take part in this process this time around. :)

So, if you're reading this email, please just keep me lifted up in prayer. I still very much need a miracle of provision in my life. But, as I'm here, sharing my story, I'm learning that others see how God has brought me to this place in my walk with Him, so it's the blessed place to be.

I trust God.

Thanks for reading my update and keeping me in prayer as the Lord leads for specific direction and provision. God bless you.

Sense of Home

2011-07-27T07:57:00.005-05:00

As soon as I drove into town yesterday, I felt a strong sense of "home". I didn't realize just how much I'd missed this place! Seeing all the familiar places just brought a strong sense of comfort. I love this place. I sowed 10 years of prayer on this ground; I guess it makes sense that I would.

I had a great time of hanging out with my cousins and an aunt last evening. Lots of conversation about God happened, and I was able to sing one of my songs to them.

I'm sitting here at the coffee shop this morning just having a quiet time moment. I'm really not sure what all God has planned for this trip, but at this time, there has been lots of family time, and I am SO thankful for that! I'm hoping that God will provide lots of answers for me on this trip. And, yet, I was advised that God may still have me walking in patience, that my expectation for answers need to be surrendered so that I can just receive Him.

Have YOUR way, Lord.
Thanks for bringing me home for a visit.

In Jesus' Name,
amen.

PS Just got to hang out with my brother's family on their way back home to Texas. They dropped by the coffee shop. My little nephew Sammy kept taking drinks of my Snicker's frap as if it were his own!...seriously dude, you're 4 years old---No coffee for you!!! May God lead them back home safely. In Jesus' Name, amen.

Visit Back

2011-07-25T18:38:00.015-05:00

I am going back to Illinois for the week. Please keep me in prayer for safety and provision. Thanks! ~Christine

9:45 p.m-- Taking a fuel break-- Irony-- On my way to Texas, I kept seeing U turn signs!!! On my way back this time to Illinois, I keep seeing NO U TURN signs!!! Hmmmmm.... I'm not into signs. But, I do really have peace about this visit. I think God has some AMAZING things planned for this coming week! :)

July 26, 2011

I got to see my aunt today at her job site in St. Louis. That was a lot of fun spending time with her for a bit and meeting all her co-workers! I love her very much! Then, I drove through down town East St. Louis to get downtown to spend time with my cousin whom I care about very much. I now know one of the reasons why I've gone through some things this season. I am better equipped to understand... I'm glad for the visit today. Her kids ARE BEAUTIFUL!!! If the Lord allows, I will be going back by there on my way back to Dallas; I will take pictures this time! :)

I'm now getting ready to head toward my cousin's place to meet up with some family. I'm looking forward to just resting with them this evening.

It's thundering here...and now it has started to RAIN! Mercy drops...Thanks, Lord! Praying it rains in Dallas, too.

PS As I drove around St. Louis today, I kept seeing signs for Gateway. :) I miss the church already.

Late Evening Encouragement

2011-07-23T09:48:00.008-05:00

So last night, I had my plans, but God kept nudging me to go to this one place. I didn't want to spend my gas, though, so I didn't jump on it right away. After feeling the nudge for the 5th time or so, I finally decided that maybe I was supposed to go and encourage one of the workers I'd met recently (the Muslim gentleman that I had a conversation with last week--read blog here).

But, when I got there, I didn't see him, so I spent time messing around with the garage band program. After a while, I looked up and noticed a family of three nearby. I didn't think too much of it at the time, but I did notice them there for some reason. But, I was doing my own thing, so I just kept pressing into that.

Well, I was getting tired, and I felt like it was time to leave. But, oddly enough, just as I was leaving, the father of the group initiated conversation with me by telling me to have a good evening. And, then I told them, "you're all believers, right?" It's like I just knew it. And, sure enough, they were. They invited me to sit down and join them in conversation. So, I did. :)

Their daughter had JUST gotten back that night from a 2 month missions trip to Laos. So for the next 20 minutes, we were able to exchange all that God has been doing and teaching on in this season. It was truly incredible to hear her stories--to hear how God provided transportation when their bikes were stolen. To hear of them hitch-hiking, riding buses, etc. to share the gospel to the people in that country.

After our exchange of stories, we were able to pray for one another. I was so incredibly blessed.

I realized that God had brought me to that specific place last evening so that I could meet up with the Miller family and be encouraged by their daughter's missionary journey. It was so amazing that God would give me the privilege of meeting a missionary who JUST arrived back in the states that very evening. It was such a divine appointment.

I marvel at how God provides for ALL our needs. God wanted to supply me with encouragement last night. He gave me LIGHT for the journey through a small fellowship meeting at around 1:30 in the morning. I am still amazed at how God directs our course. And, how He leads us by His Holy Spirit as we walk in obedience by responding to Him in FAITH.

The missionary girl's name is Laura. I'm really thankful I had the chance to hear about her adventures. May God continue to surround her with His favor as with a shield, as she steps out in obedience to Him and follows Him wherever He takes her next. And, may God bless the whole Miller family, in Jesus' Name, amen.

Psalm 37:23
The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.

Today's Unexpected Blessing :)

2011-07-21T16:02:00.004-05:00

I was online reading tweets when I learned about one of our pastors speaking at a women's group meeting at church for Pink. It started at 10; it was 9:42. I knew I was supposed to go.

I made it there, and God had several new ladies for me to meet today. Interestingly enough, I was in the middle of one conversation when the Holy Spirit stopped me, and told me to introduce ourselves to the lady sitting next to me. That turned out to be the divine appointment for the day.

After hearing the amazing teaching on keeping a focused pursuit of God, the lady and I began talking, and we had time for prayer and encouragement. God provided the opportunity for me to pray for her and her family, and then later I got to share a bit of my faith story with her, as well.

Before we left, she asked me if I would receive something if she gave it to me. Before I could really respond (I wondered if I'd say yes or no!!!), she pointed to her journal and said that she had already placed the gift there for me. That is what blew me away. God had provided for me even before we had began engaging in such rich conversation. In her eyes, it was enough for a coffee, but for me, it was a major provision of God. It gave me hope. It gave me trust. It made me realize that God was SO on my case, and as I was seeking first His Kingdom, He was providing for me.

I found out a couple hours ago that the position I applied for--the editorial/writing staff position is now going to be on hold for 4 weeks. Hahhahaha. :D It made me realize that GOD is SO wanting me to trust Him, and it's very possible that He DOESN'T want me taking that job, either! LOL. In four weeks, I'll be back to subbing again, something I dearly love!!!

But, my Father, who knew that I would be receiving that report, gave me a small glimpse of hope today when He provided for me. Yes, my Father is keeping His Word in my life. The provision may only come daily, but as I seek to do God's will first, He is taking care of me. :)

I hope this encourages all of you, too. Seek first HIS KINGDOM...then all these things shall be added, as well.

Thank you, Jesus! :)

High Noon Prayer Time Revelation

2011-07-20T22:14:00.004-05:00

So, I went to high noon prayer today. Let me just say that I almost missed it! These days are going by so quickly, and I forgot that it was Wednesday! In any case, I got there on time, and the atmosphere was intense from the start. We listened to worship, and we jumped right into Spirit-filled praying.

During prayer, God gave me a revelation. I had begun by praying for God's rain to come, and then as the prayer leader led us, I moved towards praying for the Lord to open up our hearts, eyes, the skies, doors. The words she kept praying were "open, open." And, that was bearing with my spirit to pray the same.

Suddenly, I sensed a revelation from God of how the earth is also full of His goodness. I sensed Him "opening" up the earth and revealing how there are deep oil rigs of His Spirit to be found, if we were to dig deeper into Him. I just saw a visual/spiritual picture in my spirit of hidden oil fields all over, full of His Oil, His Spirit. And, God was calling us to see beyond the dry and barren land and the cracks, but to ask Him to OPEN up the earth that those hidden mines of His Spirit would be revealed, and that we could tap into the rich resources of His Holy Spirit.

This revelation seemed opposite of my prayer earlier today about the Lord sending the rain. But, I realized that both are vital. The Holy Spirit IS rain, and He is OIL. God was revealing to me that His Presence can be accessed all over. That we just need to open up our hearts, our lives, our minds, and lives, and ASK for MORE of HIM!

So, tonight I'm praying that God would reveal the hidden mines of His Oil fields in our lives. That we would not look at dry, barren, cracked places as being empty spaces, but that we would dig deep, even deeper, for Him, expecting to find HIM, knowing that God can provide an extravagant supply of fresh oil for our lives to keep our love for Jesus Christ ignited and FIRING brightly for all the world to see.

God bless you!

Rain on Me

2011-07-20T10:41:00.014-05:00

Rain on me
Come, Holy Love
Rain on me
Bring Your Life

Mercy drops, pour out from Heaven
Soak my heart,
Come, fill me up

I'm waiting
I know You will come
I am standing out here on this barren hill
And I've left my umbrella behind
I surrender,
I surrender

Come, Holy Spirit
SOAK ME
I wait for You...
I wait for You...

By: Christine Ann Craig
~July 20, 2011

(Was so totally excited to find this free use pic to capture the words I just wrote today!!! God is SO good!!!!).

You Are All

2011-07-19T02:21:00.003-05:00

You're my Living Water
I thirst for You

You're my song of praise
I sing for You

You're my Life eternal
I live for You

Jesus Christ,
You are all I will ever need.

Song of Surrender

2011-07-19T02:12:00.002-05:00

I surrender
I let go
I believe
You're in control

You are able
You are good
You will always
See me through

I lay my heart down
Full of dreams
And quiet my soul
To hear Your voice...

The Response: National Day of Prayer and Fasting Aug. 6th

2011-07-18T09:51:00.002-05:00

I am so excited to see leaders rising up in our nation to PRAY and SEEK GOD's face!
They are calling forth a Joel 2 solemn assembly on behalf of our national crisis, to move beyond man's ways to hear God's ways.
I LOVE THIS!!! I would love the opportunity to take part in this assembly, but only God knows if He'll allow me to be there, or to intercede from afar. I pray that whatever your plans for Aug. 6th, that you will join in on this opportunity to pray and fast for our nation. Praying that as we confess our sins, turn from our wicked ways, humble ourselves, and seek God's face, that He will hear us from heaven, and that according to His Word, He'll have mercy on us, and He will come and heal us, heal our land. PRAYING!

Gov. Perry's Invitation to The Response from The Response USA on Vimeo.

Philippians 4:6-7

2011-07-17T17:30:00.000-05:00

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Twitter Time

2011-07-16T21:12:00.006-05:00

Okay, I just joined twitter because a worship leader at church encouraged us to do so. Finally decided to check it out. Doesn't look complicated. So, if any of you are twitter types, feel free to join me on the other board, as well! You can look for me here:
twitter

High Noon Prayer Time

2011-07-16T09:26:00.010-05:00

This past Wednesday at high noon prayer at church, God gave me a Word at the end to share. I hesitated in going up, and then, it was confirmed that I should go forward because the prayer leader said, "If anyone has a last minute Word, feel free to come up and share." So, I was on the brink of doing that...but I never did. Ever wait to long and then realize later that you had an opportunity to exalt God's Word, but you waited too long and missed the chance? I felt that way, but was later able to share it with others. God works things out for good, alway! :)

You see, earlier in the service, the Lord had prompted me about praying about how Jesus Christ was the single seed that came and died to raise up a harvest of righteousness, and how in Him, we are now called to do the same--to be single seeds that die to ourselves to raise up His harvest of righteousness. That all He is, we now have within us. That our identity is fully in all HE is.

Well, if I would have waited a second before closing, I would have remembered that He had given me a conclusion to that Word, as well, earlier when He was preparing me to go forward; however, I prayed and went back to my seat, and that is when I realized I'd forgotten part 2.

So, I sat there wrestling about whether or not to go back forward again, and that is when the prayer leader opened it up to go forward. Several others did, so I waited, and then when the last one prayed, the prayer time was brought to a conclusion.

What was the second word?

It was a scripture: "Planted in the house of the Lord. We will flourish in the courts of our God." Psalm 92:13.

In addition to this Word, I saw a picture of the sanctuary being full of flowers, plants, and trees. All living and breathing.

Well, I never gave that Word, but what an amazing surprise it was to walk out of the sanctuary after prayer and see the foyer full of plants, flowers, and trees! It had not been that way before prayer!

I felt like the Lord was confirming His Word to me. I was able to see several women who were in the prayer group and share the Word with them, and it allowed me to make some more connections with these ladies as we engaged in conversations about our identity in Christ. :) It was awesome!

I love being able to intercede and pray for my church on Wednesdays. I love watching how the Holy Spirit is moving and leading in our midst. God is doing great things in all our lives. I'm very thankful. :)

PS By the way, the grounds crew had put up the flowers, plants, and trees for the weekend marriage conference they held at church this week. I pray it was an amazing times for couples! :)

Thankful. :)

2011-07-15T14:37:00.006-05:00

Today has been a good day. :D So thankful!
And, by the way, if I offended someone on here by my last post on pet peeves, would you forgive me? That wasn't my intention! :)
Thanks! :)

Christ Crucified

2011-07-14T19:08:00.002-05:00

"We preach Christ crucified! It's the only way for souls to be saved who have gone astray. We preach Christ raised to life, and now He reigns..."

See The Lamb of God

2011-07-14T18:51:00.000-05:00

This is a POWERFUL song! :D

Build This House

2011-07-14T18:44:00.001-05:00

This song grips me tonight.

(Turn off player at the bottom of page for better audio quality-before listening. ;)

I Will Go

2011-07-11T20:28:00.004-05:00

When I heard this song many years ago, I couldn't stop crying. I knew God was calling me. Every time I heard it, God spoke to me through it. Even tonight, it gripped me again. Only this time, I realized that I am walking out the beginning stages of my commitment to GO. Tonight I am posting this on my board as a step of faith in intercession for my future husband. I believe that the amazing man I will someday call my husband will also passionately steward this call. Father, pierce him with love for You above all and Your love for the lost. In Jesus' Name, I pray, amen.

...And he said "Come, and follow me
I'm calling you I want you to be
A fisherman to fish for those
Who are drowning in a scowling sea
A sea of lonliness and pain
Confusion, hurt, worry, shame
I'm holding out my hand
And yet they don't hear me call their name

I want you to be the one
To tell them that the Kingdom's come
And give them all the truth and joy
You've been given by the Son

Will you go
Wherever I lead
Be light in the dark
And be salt in the street
Will you go
No matter the cost
Will you live for the lost
So they'll know of the cross
Will you go

I said Oh no, Lord not me
I'm not good enough to go you see
I mean what if they laugh or worse
Start throwing things and I get hurt
Besides that, what would I say
I think there's been a big mistake
Lord, please ask this of someone else
I can't go I'm too afraid

I want you to be the one
To tell them that the Kingdom's come
And give them all the truth and joy
You've been given by the Son

Will you go
Wherever I lead
Be light in the dark
And be salt in the street
Will you go
No matter the cost
Will you live for the lost
So they'll know of the cross
Will you go

He said yes, some will cover their ears
And they will not want to hear
You must stand and say it still
Be brave my child and do not fear
For it is my words you'll speak
And I promise I will keep
You safe and sound within my will
I'm your strength when you're weak

I want you to be the one
To tell then that the Kingdom's come
And give them all the truth and joy
You've been given by the Son

I will go
Wherever You lead
Be light inthe dark
And be salt in the street
I will go
No matter the cost
I will live for the lost
So they'll know of the cross

I will go
Wherever you lead
Be light in the dark
And be salt in the street
I will go
No matter the cost
I will live for the lost
So they'll know of the cross
I will go

I will go
Here I am
Send me