We will never lose anything by too much loving the Lord, or too much giving to the Lord, or too much focusing on the Lord.

World’s religious understanding is to maintain a balanced life of 50% relying on God and 50% relying on self. This kind of life serves no purpose and is a waste of time.

Total reliance on God with no reservation for self brings a simple, peaceful life where there is no fear even when there is a constant threat from the enemy.

When we get to this place, we are ready to take any tough assignments for there is nothing possibly can stop us in doing what we are called to do!

For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

Then this verse came to mind. “…present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” Romans 12:1. The idea is that of a Roman soldier. He reports for duty every morning. Once he reports, he has made his decisions for the day. The commanding officer tells him when to eat, what to eat, what work to do, when to go to the bathroom, and when to go to bed. It’s very simple! That may sound awful, that your choice is gone. But consider this: your commanding officer is Jesus; through whom we can do all things as He strengthens us; in whom we live and move and have our being; who loves us like nobody else ever could. He gives us life.

Put that way, I’m willing to follow Him anywhere! Put that way, I see that He protects me from unseen and unknown enemies. He cares for me in every possible way. He knows my ins and outs, my comings and goings, and He directs me specifically. He longs to protect me like a mother comforts her baby and a hen protects her baby chicks. He has great plans for me, to give me a future and a hope. If I wrap myself around Him, I will soar like an eagle, flying where I could never fly by myself. All I have to do is abide in Him (rest, dwell, be). Who could argue with a commanding officer like that?

As for God’s will, I already know God’s will. It is to report for duty — and then follow him for joyride of my life!

Romans 12:1; Philippians 4:13; Acts 17:28; Isaiah 66:13; Jeremiah 29:11; Isaiah 40:31; John 15:4.

It is often associated with weak, prissy, girly, pink (nothing wrong with that color by the way. It is a favorite!), tea parties, Disney, nothing to do with athletic, dependent on others to “save” them.

Ugh.

But I take joy in the fact that I am a daughter of the King. A true Princess. And that He made me strong, capable, creative, smart and mobile so that I can do great things for His Kingdom!

As well as enjoy this beautiful earth He has so graciously given us to live in!

Madi loves the new show on Disney “Sofia the First.” She is an adorable little rags to riches princess who isn’t afraid to be herself and try new things.

Even if one of those new things include attempting to make the Royal Jockey Team!  Of course naturally, everyone tells her only Princes can do it, but this determined little gal proves them all wrong with a  little patience, practice and perseverance.

My little princess?

She is embarking on her first athletic adventure.

Softball. I played for years before getting more into musical theater, but it was something I enjoyed so much and I can’t wait to work alongside her and teach her to love trying new things.

Even if they seem scary. Even if she isn’t sure she can play.  Who knows what may happen with a little patience, practice and perseverance?

Of course, we got her pink softball gear. Hello!  Perfect for Madison! Oh….and she got a Jennie Finch softball bat. JEALOUS! Love Jennie Finch!

But she isn’t the only Princess who is trying new things.

With my favorite verse in mind…. I tried this:

Don’t be afraid to try something new. With a little patience, practice and perseverance…imagine what you can do!

Philippians 4:13

So tell me, what is one new thing you are going to try today?

Tiff~

Yes,  ’After the Third House We Die’,  is already started, has been started for over 11 years, but time and life got in the way.   It seems that has happened with too many things.  Hopefully with the added energy I now have, more projects will be completed.  Perhaps even  new ones can be started.

Since I wrote those first two paragraphs several days have slipped by.  Someone has said that the older you get the faster time goes by and that is certainly true of our lives here at the Allen household.  The cold weather is a great encourager of wrapping up in something warm and either sleeping or doing sedentary things.  Not necessarily good for weight loss or accomplishing things.

Going to bed at 5am after reading, talking, or the many other fun things that take up hours in scant minutes tends to make getting up mid-afternoon seem almost reasonable.  Hopefully that trend was finished yesterday and the rest of the winter will be a more disciplined time.

The last thing holding up the rest of the production of the book was resolved today when a friend came and helped me understand more about how to run the camera.  Now I can progress with the changes to the manuscript suggested by the proof readers and move to the next step in publishing WITCOE.

‘Thank you Lord for providing just what I need when I need it.’ 

“We always have time for the things we put first.”   Ouch!  That thought for the day just stepped on my toes.  Hard!  I just admitted that the biggest reason for the book not published yet is in a large part because of procrastination.  For much of the time the physical challenges have given me a reason for not doing things in the order of their importance.  

I truly believe  the Bible is real and the answer to every problem; so guess I should print and place where I see it often, the words of Philippians 4:13,  “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Those words ended my writing for yesterday before my music student arrived. Then many other things crowded in and now I might actually have time to finish this blog uninterrupted. 

The two procedures are finished and except for a slight achy arm I feel ok.  At least I can type without problems and that was my biggest concern.  I have a large typing job to do for a friend.  That needs to be done in the next few days as well as the rest of the work on the book.

Our daughter is here for the next two days which will free me to do some extra research and typing so I can accomplish some much-needed tasks.

Today I have a possible new guitar student, supper with friends, a Christian concert,  two favorite TV programs, news and more work on the proof reader’s copies/suggestions etc and then to bed hopefully by 3am.  Ready for an easier day tomorrow. 

Hopefully a theater time to see ‘Les Miserables’  tomorrow  after we view a free showing of the first movie ever shown at the Eaton Theaters.  Then a visit with friends.  Then ….. Did I say an easier day tomorrow?

No one ever said our schedule was routine if they knew us for very long.  Then next week beside the regular (for us) schedule Bill has an eye appointment on Tuesday and we celebrate the anniversary of our first date on Thursday.  That first date was  60 years ago.   If I’m sitting down I only feel about 20, so how can that be?

Well we do have our children, ages 56 and 57.  Plus grandchildren, aged 33, 32, 30, 29, 27,and our granddaughter who lives with Jesus would have been 25 in February.  Plus great-grandchildren who are, 9, 5, 5, 3, 2, 11 months, 5 months and 3 months  so guess it isn’t a surprise that when I get up to do something I do feel a bit older than 20.

Physical challenges have been many since April of 2012 but God has blessed us abundantly through them and I am feeling better than I have in years.  Praise Him!  If you would like to share how God blesses you I would love to hear from you.

As for the future……………. Guatemala is home.

Leaving Turin on the 31st December, I arrived in Guatemala City the 1st January – the first day of a year-long lease of an apartment in Antigua. Once set-up, it will be earnestly concentrating on writing that will dominate the day. Also, there should be more regular contact as I will not be all over the world, and hopefully, internet and mobile phone issues that have plagued me in numerous places, will be a thing of the past. While in Guatemala the opportunity of doing some teaching may perhaps present itself. The book however is of first concern work wise.

‘Why Guatemala?’ you may ask. Firstly, it has been a dream of Joan’s for many years to live there and to contribute to a society in great need. Secondly, I wish to be with Joan, and to contribute in some way also. Thirdly, the cost of living is one-eighth that of Australia or the USA. Fourthly, the need of a quiet place where I can concentrate and focus on writing, free from the numerous distractions of life in Australia or the USA – Guatemala fits the bill perfectly.

In the near future Joan and I will marry. A date has yet to be set, paperwork has yet to be finalised, but the time will come. We have become indispensible to one another, and there are plans, at a formative stage, for a future joint project once the current book is completed. But more on that at another time, much water must pass under the bridge before any new thing comes to pass – The Paradox of Life has yet to be finished.

Keeping It Real

It may appear there is little or no mention of the Lord’s part in the two previous sections of this ‘epic’ post. To be honest, if it were not for Him being present in every step, in every event, overseeing all, these journeys – this Journey would never have taken place, nor in the manner in which it did. The still small Voice of the Lord that I hear has been guiding me, directing me, teaching me. Dare I say, the Lord has been providentially orchestrating the circumstances that have culminated in an incredible life-changing series of events that began twenty months ago.

Since leaving Australia and the little refuge into which I had secreted myself [where I learned to listen, hear and heed the still small Voice of the Lord], a little over five months ago, the Lord has taken me on a whirlwind ride: across the skies, over oceans, through wilderness, forest and jungle; traversing deserts, climbing mountains; to the foot of volcanoes, through earthquake, wind and raging storm; over creeks, rivers, lochs and lakes; into terrorist plagued areas, along highways, byways, streets and back alleys; into great and seething cities, occupied territories, forgotten ancient ruins, hidden and secretive monasteries, glorious churches, magnificent mosques, ancient temples, and proud pyramids.

I feel something of how I imagine Elijah must have felt when on the run from his enemies, driven out into the desert to hide in his refuge, a cave high on a mountainside. Waiting for salvation from the Lord, waiting for the Lord, Who did not speak in the reassurance of mighty and earth-shattering phenomena, but Who came to him as a whispered, still small Voice. Elijah required faith and trust if he was to proceed. I too have heard that Voice.

I am no Elijah, no prophet, and never will be, but I feel I know something of his experience in my own. The still small Voice spoke to me and led me out of my cave. Those of you who know me well know exactly what I am talking about. Like Elijah who later was whisked away in the blazing, fiery chariot, I too was whisked away to far and strange places where the Lord spoke to me, took me by the hand, provided me with an Angel to watch over me and act as my companion, someone after my own heart; He set me a task and provided the means to complete it.

I am merely an instrument, there is no greatness in me that is not present in every other person, ‘Lord make me an instrument……’ [so begins The Peace Prayer of St Francis of Assisi] ……..that is all. As an instrument, ‘I can do all things through Christ who gives me the strength’ [Philippians 4:13], the verse that my father sought to live every day of his life; the verse that I too make my own every day as I seek to follow my father’s example, and to live my life in union with the Spirit of Jesus.

Only in being one with Jesus, trusting the inner Voice of God in heart and mind, and choosing to respond [to follow] instantly and totally, can I live anymore. Yes, He was and is present in every step, every turn; there can only be One Way to live, as the old Larry Norman song proclaims:

Two roads diverged in the middle of my life
I heard a wise man say
And I took the one less travelled by
And that’s made the difference, every night and every day

So I say one way, one way to Heaven
Hold your hands up high
Follow, free and forgiven
Children of the Sky

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Larry_Norman]

A Refresher and a Reminder

Even if you have heard it all before and think it is a load of crap, or are advanced in the ways of the Spirit of God, it serves us well to hear again what it is we are called to in an intimate personal relationship with God:

Turn from your old way of life, reject all that is evil, embrace a new life from God. Let go of controlling your own life, give it over to the Father through Jesus – totally – do not hold anything back. Even if it means looking like a fool in the eyes of others – union with God [eternal life] is worth it.

Spend time every day with the Father, the Son and the Spirit in repentance, and prayer for yourself and for others, giving thanks and honour to God for all you are and have received from Him.

Increase the amount of time you spend being with God [praying] as you become used to doing it – and very importantly, be prepared to wait until you can sense the Presence of God with you – in you; listen for the still small Voice – then converse with Father, Son and Spirit…… And, especially – listen……… When the still small Voice of the Lord speaks to you, respond instantly – ‘Yes Lord’ or ‘Yes Father’, or whatever is appropriate, and then do what He asks of you – do not hold anything back.Read the Scriptures, but the Gospels in particular, a brief section at a time every day, and reflect on what Jesus says and does – ask the Spirit who lives in you for help in doing this. Allow this Spirit teaching to guide and inform your thoughts and actions.Listen to and follow the advice of older and wiser heads than your own. Do not think you know better. Daily read and reflect on brief passages from the writings of spiritual and holy Christians – the Saints of all ages. The Imitation of Christ is the best starting place in my personal experience and opinion, though there are many others.

Consciously, stay close to the Lord in your heart and in what you do; avoid temptation if possible, ask the Spirit for help if tested or tempted. Repent if you fall or fail – and then – start again.

Stick with it, day in, day out – persevere – or none of this will work effectively.

Personally speaking, I can attest to intermittent daily prayer and brief ten or fifteen minute prayer sessions, along with prayer at moments of need, as barely sufficient to keep me alive spiritually. When faced with the worst crisis of my life, it was wholly inadequate; I was in an emaciated state spiritually. Although I had thought I was doing alright – I wasn’t! Over time [months] with consistent, regular and increasingly longer periods of prayer, the strength and intensity of prayer grew, my capacity to hear the Voice of the Lord developed, I refused to give up. I repented with tears daily and the tears have been a gift from the Lord – I have been broken and crushed. It was only then that the Lord could restore and renew me. ‘A broken and contrite heart O God you will not despise’ [Psalm 51:17b].

I have gone from strength to strength following the path I have outlined above. I sound like I am blowing my own trumpet don’t I? – I am not you know. Without the Lord doing all this in and through me I would still be back there wallowing in the same old mire of an existence I was drowning in before. There is nothing about me that makes me stronger than anyone else; I haven’t suddenly become a spiritual person through my own efforts. To be honest, all I did was genuinely hand over the running of my life to the Lord – truthfully, I gave up.

I gave up on trying to control my own existence – as if I could anyway! [Think of the world in which we live - control is a delusion we use to give ourselves a sense of security] That’s it plain and simple. Following that, I began to live the life I outlined above – not just read about it, or imagine it, or dream about it, or wish I could do it – I am living it right now as I write these words to you; and as you sit there reading them. You can have the same change if you want it badly enough.

Why not put the Lord to the test – ask Him to take over your life, let go of everything into His hands – turn your back on your old way of life and start afresh. There is nothing like a fresh start!

If you thinking I am on a hobby-horse, or am sounding-off, or preaching to you – well you are right – I am. It is what my Voice has asked me to do, and I follow His requests of me – yes requests, not commands – He doesn’t force compliance, I freely offer it, for I love Him because He first loved me; He gave His life for me, and made me a participant in the Divine Nature. The Living God lives in me, and in all those who give themselves to Him – if only we were truly aware of this incredible gift and blessing……….. God, the Creator of all that exists, living within His own creatures. Stop and think about that!!!

2013…. Time to Decide…. Who do you serve…. Creator or creature….

GOD or self?

Custom hand stamped boho bracelet by Lisa Hamilton of Beadsoul

Moving forward while stuck?  How is that even possible!  It does seem a bit impossible; however, through Christ, all things are possible (Philippians 4:13).

Life is not always fair…things do not always go as planned…one step forward and two steps back…tie a knot in the rope and hold on….These are the advice cliches that we have all heard, told a friend, or even told ourselves.

No matter how stuck we may feel…we can…we are able to…move forward…centimeter by centimeter…moment by moment….

We can make progress with enough determination and with a positive attitude…we can move forward while stuck.

Don’t you just love this pick bracelet by Beadsoul! She can custom create one for you. Check out her Etsy shop for more details and inspirational pieces.

I was feeling frustrated several months ago, and I was needing something to keep me motivated.  I knew that I had to contact Lisa Hamilton of Beadsoul to create me a bracelet that was colorful, fun, and most of all–motivating.  A small reminder that no matter how dark and tiresome the days seem…a little progress is better than no progress…staying put and holding on to a fraying rope is better than moving backward and letting go.  I knew that I had to be still and let God…be God (Psalm 46:10).

From my random thoughts, Lisa created my “Moving Forward While Stuck” boho bracelet.   She added the most darling hand stamped charms to it…grace, hope, faith.

“My Grace is sufficient for thee: for My Strength is made perfect in weakness….” (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Precious Grace Boho bracelet handmade by Lisa Hamilton of Beadsoul

“Rejoicing in Hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer….” (Romans 12:12)

Hand stamped charm necklace by Beadsoul

“Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen….” (Hebrews 11:1)

Inspiring hand stamped cuff by Lisa Hamilton of Beadsoul…I love Lisa’s jewelry. Each piece is crafted with love. Thank you, Lisa, for your incredible little masterpieces that help to spread love, hope, and joy.

It has indeed been a long journey to where I am now.  Since we last sat down and chatted, my little family and I sold our beloved HatRidge and moved to a new home in Alabama.  Our new place is currently under major renovation, and I will be sharing it all with you.  I am going to call the home renovation articles (which will cover everything from demolitian to the finished product and everything in between…plus a few DIY home projects and tips) “Two Blondes and a Stan”.

Much love and thanks to all of you for your continued support, kind and encouraging words, and prayers.

If you are looking for a little inspiration and a happy for a friend or yourself, check out Beadsoul on Etsy at www.beadsoul.etsy.com .

Be sure to like her Facebook page to keep up with all her latest news and creations at www.facebook.com/beadsoul

Follow Beadsoul on Twitter and Instagram @beadsoul

Love and Hugs,

Chasidy

Where There Is No Struggle – There Is No Strength

Even the strongest and most courageous of Christians/people at some point or another, need to be reminded of God’s infinite strength and bountiful promises.

Many ask…why do we suffer?

1) Suffering gives us opportunity to prove our commitment to God
2) Suffering causes spiritual growth 
3) Suffering keeps us humble and dependent on God

(Psalm 34:19) – Many are the afflictions of the righteous; but the Lord delivers him out of them all.

God may not remove all the afflictions, but He makes sure we are able to endure them faithfully – “all of them”. 

Faithful Christians will suffer. Yet the Christian life is still the best, because only faithful Christians have the assurance that we can endure, that God will help us, that the result will be for our good, and that in the end we will have eternal life.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me – (Philippians 4:13)

(click on the picture for larger view)

†oday’s Word

For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength. – Philippians 4.13

†oday’s Morning Glory

This is one of the most quoted and often commercialized verses in the Bible. Besides being short and easy to remember, it is hugely encouraging! It is highly used in youth ministry to encourage kids and teens, but let’s remember its roots.

Paul wrote this in prison. He didn’t say, “I can do all things when I get my way,” or “I can do all things because life is good,” or even “I can do all things because I am awesome.” His dependance was on the Lord! Not because things were easy, or because things were going his way, but because God is God, no matter our circumstances. Not only did Paul believe fully in the power of God, he continually shared it through letters and talking with other prisoners and even the guards.

Do you feel imprisoned by an arduous job, imploding finances, failing health, difficult relationships or heart breaking loss? Should it stop you from doing all things through Him? When times are tough do you run away from Him or to Him? And to take it a step further, are you sharing your faith with others during your struggle?

†oday’s Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word to encourage me during tough times. You have seen me through unbearable struggles. Please forgive me for the times I have not leaned fully on you and let me live in full confidence of Your strength and not my own. I can do all things through you! As I live my life today as a wife, mother, writer, errand runner, friend and stranger to many, let me do these daily things through you and learn to trust you when it becomes too much to bear. Thank you for your Son Jesus Christ. I love you! Amen.

Philippians 4:13: I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me.

Everyday, people find themselves struggling and feeling highly stressed. We deal with so many difficulties in our everyday lives, we forget about our dreams and aspirations that we once had. We make so many excuses as to why we can’t do something or fight to make our dreams come true or do what our hearts desire.

However, we have to remember that we are not meant to live in fear and doubt. Our savior Jesus Christ died on the cross for us to be able to completely eliminate fear from our lives in every area and trust God to deliver us from any negative situation and live our lives in righteousness and fulfill our dreams and hearts desire according to His will. As a result, we can do whatever we wish to do. DREAM BIG!!!

Have a blessed day everyone.

“The power prayer has never been tried to its full capacity. If we want to see mighty wonders of divine power and grace wrought in the place of weakness, failure and disappointment, let us answer God’s standing challenge, “Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things which thou knowest not!’” -J. Hudson Taylor

Why is it so hard for us to make time for prayer and reading the Word of God? Life is busy, I agree. It is funny though how we will make time for the things we really want to do! If we could just get a glimpse of the marvelous opportunity we have to come into the very presence of the Most High God, we would run to talk with Him. We would drop everything we are doing just to seek His face.

“Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere…” Psalm 84:10 NIV

 
When I was in college I had the great privilege of attending a church that had prayer in the sanctuary every day,  morning, noon and night!  At first, it was hard for me to sit still and pray. I wasn’t sure what to say, what to do exactly. As I began to open my mouth and just talk to God, worship Him, tell Him how much I loved Him, I thanked Him for all that He had done in me and all He was going to do. I began to pray scriptures and make confessions over myself , I became addicted to prayer…addicted to getting into the presence of God. He is the lover of my soul. Prayer has so many benefits. It helps you to calm down, get quiet, and allows you to really hear what God is saying to you. If you need direction, you will find it in prayer. If you are stressed, overwhelmed and need a break, you will find peace when you make time to pray and get alone with God. Prayer helps you to see things differently. If you need a new perspective on life, pray! My favorite way to pray is with worship music. I pop in a good worship CD and I’m on my way to entering into the sweet presence of God! Things begin to change in me, they will in you too!

 
“Never stop praying.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Reading the Bible gives you wisdom for life. It gives you direction and helps you to find out more about God. The Bible is our GPS for life. I couldn’t make it without my GPS. I would be lost, driving in circles. That is a lot like we are without the Word of God leading us on a daily basis. You may try to find your own way for a while, but having the direction of God is a lot better!
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105

“Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you.” Psalm 25:5

We are 8 days into 2013. It’s not too late…You can still make a fresh start. Make a decision today and change the course of your life!

Within the covers of the Bible are the answers for all the problems men face. – Ronald Reagan

Philippians 4:13 says: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

YOU CAN DO IT!

10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity.11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

Finally, even without the other contexts, within the verse is a principle overlooked many times – “through him [Christ] who strengthens me.” Before someone can take this verse and use it as a spiritual steroid, it must be remembered that the power lies not with us but with Jesus Christ. If we are living our lives in our own power and neglecting our time with him, can Philippians 4:13 really have its full meaning?

Read: Ten Most Popular Bible Verses of 2012

Contentment means wanting what God wants for us rather than what we want for us. The secret to enjoying this kind of contentment is to be so satisfied with God that we are able to accept whatever he has or has not provided.

[ione_media_gallery id="116327" src="http://elev8.com"]

10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity.11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

Finally, even without the other contexts, within the verse is a principle overlooked many times – “through him [Christ] who strengthens me.” Before someone can take this verse and use it as a spiritual steroid, it must be remembered that the power lies not with us but with Jesus Christ. If we are living our lives in our own power and neglecting our time with him, can Philippians 4:13 really have its full meaning?

Read: Ten Most Popular Bible Verses of 2012

Contentment means wanting what God wants for us rather than what we want for us. The secret to enjoying this kind of contentment is to be so satisfied with God that we are able to accept whatever he has or has not provided.

[ione_media_gallery id="116327" src="http://elev8.com"]

10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity.11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

Finally, even without the other contexts, within the verse is a principle overlooked many times – “through him [Christ] who strengthens me.” Before someone can take this verse and use it as a spiritual steroid, it must be remembered that the power lies not with us but with Jesus Christ. If we are living our lives in our own power and neglecting our time with him, can Philippians 4:13 really have its full meaning?

Read: Ten Most Popular Bible Verses of 2012

Contentment means wanting what God wants for us rather than what we want for us. The secret to enjoying this kind of contentment is to be so satisfied with God that we are able to accept whatever he has or has not provided.

[ione_media_gallery id="116327" src="http://elev8.com"]

  Bulldog Desperation

Memory Verse: 1 Peter 2:21 

Life Application: My character and attitude should be that of Jesus.

     When we hear the word “bulldog” the first thing that comes to mind is a little dog with a smashed in face – a dog that when it bites into something  it won’t let go. While that first thought has some truth to it, there is more to a bulldog than meets the eye. In the past, I always thought of a bulldog as an ugly, mean little dog. To a breeder, someone who knows all about bulldogs, that is far from the truth.

I found ten things that breeders look for in the character and attitude of a bulldog. As I read over these things, I thought that it would be wonderful to have a church full of “spiritual bulldogs.” People that have bulldog desperation for the presence of God.

I. Bulldogs have a loving disposition.

Bulldogs act in a loving way toward others. They have a loving way in which they think about things. Their very nature exhibits love. As a refection of Christ, we too should have a loving disposition. Our very nature should exhibit love. If we are desperate for the presence of the Lord in our life and in our church we must have a loving disposition.

1 Corinthians 13: 4-8  NKJV     “Love suffers long and is kind: love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek it’s own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.”

     The way we think about things (and the way we think about God) should be different than the way the world thinks. We should have a loving way in which we think about things and people.

John 13:34-35  NKJV     “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

     We should show the love of Christ in everything that we do and say. When people look at us our very disposition should show that we are disciples of Christ.

1 John 4:7  NKJV      “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.”

     Our very nature will show if we really know God or not. If you are truly born again you will habitually show the love of God.

II. Bulldogs have great stability.

Bulldogs have great steadfastness in their character and purpose. They have a great ability to maintain their position.

2 Peter 10:14  NKJV     “Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless”

     If we are desperate for the presence of the Lord in our life and in our church we must be steadfast in our service, in our faith, in our growth in Christ, and in our perseverance.

* Steadfastness in service.

1 Corinthians 15:58  NKJV     “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.”

     We should press on to fulfill God’s calling on our lives. Every believer is called by God to minister to Him, then to the saints, then to the world. Every person bought by the blood of Jesus Christ is called by God, every person has a ministry. Ministry can be wearing on your body, soul and spirit. We must rely on the Holy Spirit to work (minister) through us. By allowing the Holy Spirit to work through us we will not grow weary in well doing.

2 Thessalonians 3:13  NKJV     “But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good.” 

* Steadfastness in our faith.

Colossians 2:5  NKJV     “For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and steadfastness of your faith in Christ.”

     Things of this world and things of the enemy should not shake our faith. We, as Christians, have a solid foundation. We have Jesus as our cornerstone.

1 Peter 5:9  NKJV     “Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.”

     When we are steadfast in our faith we are stable. True victory comes when we are steadfast in our faith and remain committed to God no matter what we are facing (in all situations). We are not easily disturbed or likely to all apart when trouble comes our way. Stability is a sign of maturity.

* Steadfastness in growing in Christ.

2 Peter 3:18  NKJV     “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.” 

1 Thessalonians 3:11-14  NKJV     “Now may our God and Father Himself, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way to you. And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all, just as we do to you, so that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints.”

     It is important that we grow (mature) individually and as a body. If we remain “children” we are vulnerable and gullible. Many new believers are drawn away from the faith when they do not mature (grow) properly. Also there are some churches that close their doors because they refused to grow (spiritually). When proper growth is not taking place in a believer’s life (or church) they are injured easily, open to attacks, sensitive to criticism, temptations and influences.

Ephesians 10:14-16  NKJV     “That we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head – Christ – from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.”

     We should mature in all aspects of our relationship with Christ. Maturity comes from practice. You must practice (put in action) what you are taught.

Hebrews 5:12-14  NKJV     “For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”

* Steadfastness in perseverance

God has commanded us to stick to our calling in Christ Jesus. We are to hold fast to the things of God that we have been taught.

Revelation 3:10  NKJV     “Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on earth.”

     When facing trials, tribulations (hardships, suffering, distress) or desperate situations, we must not give up or give in. We must stand firm in our faith and persevere. We must remember what God has told us and stand firm on His Word.

Romans 5:3-4  NKJV     “And not only that, but w also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.” 

     We are counted as blessed (enjoy the favor of the Lord) when we endure what God has allowed to come against us.

James 5:11  NKJV     “Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord – that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.”

III. Bulldogs are full of vigor.

Vigor is active strength or force, healthy energy or power. Bulldogs are full of vigor. They are strong and active. They are energetic and forceful. When a bulldog encounters a fight (war) it wages a vigorous war against the enemy.

Isaiah 59:19  NKJV     “So shall they fear

The name of the Lord from the west,

And His glory from the rising of the sun;

When the enemy comes in like a flood,

The Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him.”

     If we are desperate for the presence of the Lord in our life and in our church we must be full of vigor. When the enemy comes against us the Lord will judge the enemy (person or thing). He will wage war against the enemy. Our part is to be full of the power of the Holy Spirit, and He will help stand firm in the face of the enemy. He has armed us with strength for the battle.

Psalm 18:39  NKJV     “For You have armed me with strength for the battle;

You have subdued under me those who rose up against me.”

     The battles that we go through do not belong to us. They belong to the Lord. We should not try to fight the battle for God.

1 Samuel 17:47  NKJV     “Then all this assembly shall know that the Lord does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the Lord’s, and He will give you into our hands.”

     Unlike a bulldog, our vigor (strength, force, power) does not come from the physical. It is supernatural. It only comes from the Spirit of God.

Zechariah 4:6  NKJV     “ ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’

Says the Lord of hosts.”

Philippians 4:13  NKJV     “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

IV. Bulldogs have great strength.

A bulldog is strong, powerful and forceful. It has the power to resist force. If we are desperate for the presence of the Lord in our life and in our church we must have great strength. We must rely on God’s power for our strength. God’s power is limitless. The resurrection of Jesus from the grave was an example of God’s power.

Ephesians 1:19-20  NKJV     “And what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ Jesus when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places.”

     When (not if) the enemy comes against us we must stay strong. We must stand fast under pressure.

James 1:2-4  NKJV     “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”

     Believer’s have the power of Christ in them. That power is greater than any other, therefore we are able to resist whatever the enemy attacks us with.

1 John 4:4  NKJV     “You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.”

V. Bulldogs are equable.

A bulldog’s disposition and temperament changes little. It is not easily disturbed or angered, it remains calm.

Malachi 3:6  NKJV     “For I am the Lord, I do not change”

     If we are desperate for the presence of the Lord in our life and in our church we must be equable. God does not change. His mercy toward us is continuous (it never ends). He is fair and He is impartial. He does not show favor to one person over another.

Acts 10:34  NKJV     “ Then Peter opened his mouth and said: ‘In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality.’ ”

     God is fair and just. God loves us very much and He is not easily disturbed or provoked.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7  NKJV     “Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”

     We should be not given to change. Our disposition and temperament should vary little (be even). We should not be easily disturbed or angered, but remain calm.

Proverbs 24:21  NKJV     “My son, fear the Lord and the king; Do not associate with those given to change.”

     As followers of Christ, we too, should be fair and impartial. God requires for us to show absolute fairness in all aspects of our lives. There is to be no partiality (favoritism) in our lives.

James 2:8-9  NKJV     “If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scriptures, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself,’ you do well; But if you show partiality, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as transgressors.”

VI. Bulldogs are kind.

A bulldog is genuinely kind. It’s kindness is natural and sincere.

Ephesians 4:32  NKJV     “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.”

     As the body of Christ, we should strive to be genuinely kind. The kindness that is shown must be natural (instinctive) and sincere (honest), free from pretense or deceit. We are to be friendly, gentle, gracious, sympathetic, and considerate toward others. Even to the unthankful. God, Himself, is the model of kindness for us.

Luke 6:35  NKJV     “But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil.”

VII. Bulldogs are resolute.

A bulldog is determined and bold. If we are desperate for the presence of the Lord in our life and in our church we must be resolute (determined and bold). The body of Christ has been commissioned to go into all the world and make disciples. We must be determined and bold to fulfill what God has instructed us to do.

  Ephesians 6:19  NKJV     “and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel.”

     Our heart must be the same as Paul’s. He desired to proclaim the Gospel courageously. He was a faithful witness for the Lord.

VIII. Bulldogs are courageous.

A bulldog is full of courage, brave and fearless.

          1 Corinthians 16:13  NKJV     “Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.”

     If we are desperate for the presence of the Lord in our life and in our church we must be courageous.

Psalm 27:1  NKJV     ‘The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear?

The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?”

     With the Lord on our side we can be courageous. Danger (and opposition) can be met  without fear. Courageous people will follow their convictions. When we get to a place where we are desperate for the presence of the Lord we will do whatever has to be done without fear.

2 Chronicles 15:8  NKJV     “And Asa heard these words and the prophecy of Obed the prophet, he took courage, and removed the abominable idols from all the land of Judah and Benjamin and from the cities which he had taken in the mountains of Ephraim; and he restored the altar of the Lord that was before the vestibule of the Lord.”

     Desperate circumstances can be endured with a firmness of spirit by courageous people that are looking to the Lord for their help.

2 Chronicles 32:7-8  NKJV     “Be strong and courageous; do not fear nor be dismayed before the king of Assyria, nor before all the multitude that is with him; for there are more with us than with him. With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the Lord our God, to help us and to fight our battles.”

     The body of Christ must be able to face danger (opposition) boldly and with determination that with the Lord on their side they will overcome.

Deuteronomy 31:6  NKJV     “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”

IX. Bulldogs are not vicious or aggressive.

A bulldog is not evil or wicked. It does not have bad habits or a bad disposition. A bulldog is not spiteful or malicious. A bulldog does not start a fight (war) or a quarrel- it does not have an “attacking” nature. Vicious is evil or wicked, having bad habits or a bad disposition, spiteful or malicious. To take the first step in a war or quarrel, attacking, quarrelsome is to be aggressive. If we are desperate for the presence of the Lord in our life and in our church we must not be vicious. We must turn from our wicked ways.

2 Chronicles 7:14  NKJV     “if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

     The above passage is not talking to the world – it is talking to the church (the body of Christ).  His people, called by His name.

Nehemiah 9:35  NKJV     “For they have not served You in their kingdom,

Or in the many good things that You gave them,

Or in the large and rich land which You set before them’

     We must turn from (lay aside) every evil work and abandon evil practices.

Ephesians 4:31-32  NKJV     “Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.”

Colossians 3:5-8  NKJV     “Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Because of these things the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience, in which you yourselves once walked you lived in them. But now you yourselves are put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth.”

1 Corinthians 14:20  NKJV     “Brethren, do not be children in understanding; however, in malice be babes, but in understanding be mature.

1 Peter 2:1  NKJV     “Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking”

X. Bulldogs have a pacific and dignified demeanor.

A bulldog shows honor by the way it acts (behaves) in a peaceful, loving and calm manner.

Matthew 5:9  NKJV     “Blessed are the peacemakers,

For they shall be called sons of God.”

     If we are desperate for the presence of the Lord in our life and in our church we must have a pacific and dignified demeanor. God has called us to peace.

Hebrews 12:14  NKJV     “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.”

Psalm 34:14  NKJV     “Depart from evil; and do good; Seek peace and pursue it.”

Conclusion:

Each of the above characteristics and attitudes should be countenanced by a Christian’s expressions and a Christian’s behavior. Especially by one that is desperate for more of the Lord. Their character and attitude should be that of Jesus.

1 Peter 2:21  NKJV     “For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps”

Review

1. What does disposition mean?

2. How can I show a loving disposition?

3. The way we think about things and God should be ____________ than the way the world thinks.

4. What should our disposition show?

5. What does stability mean?

6. What does steadfast mean?

7. What are some things that we must be steadfast in?

8. What does vulnerable mean?

9. Why are many new believers drawn away from the faith?

10. What does vigor mean?

11. How will being full of the Holy Spirit help when the enemy comes against us?

12. What does strength mean?

13. Where does our strength and power come from?

14. Does this power have limits?

15. What does equable mean?

16. We should be not given to change. Our _____________________ and temperament should vary little. We should not be easily disturbed or ________________, but remain calm.

17. What does kind mean?

18. What does friendly mean?

19. What does gentle mean?

20.What does gracious mean?

21.What does sympathetic mean?

22. What does considerate mean?

23. Give examples of how you can be kind, friendly, gentle, gracious, sympathetic, and considerate?

24. What does resolute mean?

25. What does resolve: mean?

26. What does determined mean?

27. What does constant mean?

28. What does bold mean?

29. How can you be determined and bold in fulfill what God has instructed you to do?

30. What does courageous mean?

31. How can desperate circumstances  be endured with a firmness of spirit ?

32. What does pacific mean?

33. What does dignified mean?

34. What does demeanor  mean?

35. How can a person show a pacific and dignified demeanor?

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