Romans 8:28

"And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28. I have repeated and written it down hundreds of times to try to memorize it. Romans 8:28 is our verse we as a church are attempting to memorize. I literally only have 4 verses memorized. I don't know how people can spout off a ton of verses during any random conversation and not miss a beat, but I'm okay with slowly learning.

The more this verse sinks in, the more I enjoy it. Here's my attempt of the breakdown and why I'm loving it.

And we know that in ALL things: did you notice that? A-L-L things. The good, the bad, and the ugly. Just because we are believers doesn't mean that bad or ugly things won't happen to us. For such a small, three-lettered word it really does have such a huge impact because ALL things are made up of everything.

God works for the good of those who love Him: If you are a God-seeker, then you will want to do good in the eyes of the Lord and in turn, the Lord will bless you because of His undeniable love He has for us. Love...another powerful word.

Who have been called according to His purpose: This really is the icing on the cupcake. When I realized that I was put here for a reason...a purpose...not my purpose....but His purpose it all makes sense. If I have been created, then clearly the CREATOR knows a lot more than me and has everything all planned out. So why would I not want to live according to His purpose instead of my own? I know what my life was like without Jesus and with Jesus and believe me.....with Jesus it's better. Why? Because the worst day is better with Him than any good day without Him.

What is your favorite bible verse?

How Are We Being Like Jesus?

So yesterday I got my church on! I've been looking forward to attending all week; it's almost like I had a feeling that something good was going to happen. Lately, I've been feeling like I've been in tuned with God. When I mentioned or thought about something, I would see it come to life the next day. Sometimes I get a little freaked out about it, then I realize that I am recognizing and following God's voice and it's amazing to see it unfold.

The message at church today was again about love. How to love your neighbor/enemy and how if you loved everyone then there would be no other problems. If you loved your neighbor you would not want to steal from them, lie to them, or kill them. It makes sense. A question that was asked was, "How are we being like Jesus?"

Pastor Chad would ask some thought provoking questions then he would say, "Let that rock your theology for a bit." He's pretty hip with the lingo. It's so funny how one little question, when really thought about, can carry such deep issues. How are we like Jesus? How am I like Jesus? And really the answer for me is so far from it. It's hard to look at everyone with the love of God. It's hard to forgive, it's hard to not take offense, and I wouldn't lay down my life for just anyone. But He did. He did all those things. Why? Because of love.

It's amazing to consider that no way in this lifetime will I ever be completely like Jesus. And just because I know there's no way to reach that level of perfection, it's not like I'm throwing in the towel and reverting back to my sinful ways because I can't. I take a look at my life and I thank God for changing me, even if it is slow process. I consider myself a diamond in the rough. I may have a rough exterior but with God's help, He's slowly shining me up. And what's even more amazing to think about is no matter what stage I am in, I/we are always one of His prized possessions.

If you are in the mood for some more reading, check out this awesome article about the analogy of people and diamonds: http://www.prevailmagazine.org/gods-diamond-in-the-rough/

Spiritual Food

Ahhhh....yes. Here we go with food again. Only this is a little bit different. I'm talking about spiritual food that contains no calories and will help with every situation.

There are numerous outlets for gaining knowledge and more of an understanding about the Kingdom.  The people on my list come from all different walks of life and some are definitely more spicier than others. But I figured I would share so you know where most of my inspiration comes from while writing this blog. I'm sure I'll have more to add as the year progresses but for now, here are my favorites:

• The Bible. Well this one is obvious but just like many other people out there....it can be a difficult read. There are some things that I don't understand but in time, I'm hope I can gain a better understanding the more I mature in the Lord.

• Allen Jackson from World Outreach Church. He has a nice hint of a southern accent and I just can't get enough of his sarcastic humor. He has really helped me grow as a Christian and I have shared his teachings with my family as well. He's was the first person I really connected to on a TV media platform and this summer I plan on taking a road trip to see him in Tennessee.

• Joyce Meyer is quickly becoming my new favorite. I have been reading her devotionals for a year now and while watching her sermons, I didn't realize how down-to-earth-in-your-face she is! I love it and she has an easy way for you to walk away ready to conquer anything. She's holding a conference in a city near me this spring and I can't wait to see her live!

• David Jeremiah has the voice of a soothing angel. He has a lot of seniority compared to the others on the list and I would love to have half the patience I think he has. His approach is very real and I love the real stories he incorporates into his messages. 

• T.D. Jakes from the Potter's House. Wow! Is he a firecracker! I love his excitement in voice. He makes me want to jump out of my chair and clap my hands and say, "Thank you Lord!" I love to listen to him if I need a little pick me up or need some excitement. 

• Chad Brown is the pastor of my church. He is inspirational and very much  in tuned when he gets going.  He's very modern and extremely truthful. I first heard his voice and his message on the radio when I was an unbeliever and I said to myself if I ever went to church, I would go to his. Three years later, I accepted Jesus as my Savior and stepped foot into Cornerstone and have been there ever since. 

Feel free to comment if you have any recommendations. I hope this short list will help you on your journey.

God Bless!