Something New

So, I may add a new aspect to the blog. I write some devotionals for a women's website, and I think I will share some of them here as well! So every once in a while, in addition to my random thoughts, we might just learn a little something! : ) Here is today's:

10/29/10
Ok, so before we get started let's just make it clear that I love the book of Mark! And I especially love these 2 chapters! It was really hard to pick a part to focus on because so much happens is such a little space.....But I did manage to pick out a key point. However, today's readings are so powerful, I really encourage you to go back and read them again! (Mark 3 and 4)

What I am about to say really jumped out at me from this chapter, although I know it is just a small part of a very poignant lesson from Jesus! : ) Here's what happens in Mark 3...

23So Jesus called them and spoke to them in parables: "How can Satan drive out Satan? 24If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. 25If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. 26And if Satan opposes himself and is divided, he cannot stand; his end has come. 27In fact, no one can enter a strong man's house and carry off his possessions unless he first ties up the strong man. Then he can rob his house. 28I tell you the truth, all the sins and blasphemies of men will be forgiven them. 29But whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven; he is guilty of an eternal sin."

What I want to look at is verse 27. Jesus says that no one can enter a house and carry off possessions unless he first ties up the home's owner. Now, not to disagree with the Almighty, but sometimes I think there is another way. If you see a threat to your home and walk away, go upstairs, and get in the bubble bath--choosing to ignore the threat-- someone can just as easily rob you. Did I lose you? What I am saying is this....Jesus says the only way to be robbed is if you are first taken out, which means that Jesus expects us to put up a fight. Jesus expects us to stand up to things that come to steal and destroy, not surrender to them.

So what does this mean? We need to take on our daily routines preparing to stand firm, preparing to take on what may try and come in. Let me give you an example: I just started a new job. I like it alot, but I am often surrounded by people who live very different lifestyles, etc. (Let's just say their conversations are not always "full of grace," like the Bible says! haha) Anyway, I come to work everyday and pray the whole way there and listen to worship music. Why? To prepare my heart, to prepare my "home" for what may come against it. To essentially build up a shield, ready to meet evil at the door and say "not today!"

I've got my morning routine down, but I am praying that I would learn to apply this defensive tactic to so many other areas of my life, and I pray you will too! Let us join together in prayer as we take another stand in guarding our hearts!!

Much love ladies!!