Hey, my dear, dear Sisters. I thought about you so much while we had the privilege to serve in Washington State. We cherished every second we were there and God was so gracious and merciful to us. He could not have given us a more wonderful group of participants to kick off the 2011 Living Proof Live schedule. We lapped up every second with them. They were so full of praise and expectation for God to speak and so rowdy and fun. I would have brought every single one of them home with me to Texas if I could have.
I want you to know that you sowed very direct seed into that event. On Friday afternoon my notes were, for the most part, ready to go but I just sensed a desire to seek something more from God. I knew in my heart that it involved prayer so I got down on my knees again and prayed but I got back on my feet still not quite feeling the breakthrough that I was hoping for. The thought came to me, I believe by God Himself, to get on the blog and scroll through all the comments to the Tacoma Ticket Giveaway post and look for entries where Siestas had prayed specifically for the event. I hit a gold mine. I stopped at each one of them and actively agreed and received all that had been prayed. The breakthrough came! It was God’s good pleasure to raise up seed-throwers from spots all over the United States and Canada to sow into the Tacoma LPL harvest. I can’t express to you how deeply and profoundly it hit me. Sometimes I feel like I harass you guys half to death for prayer but we are so desperate for it. I knew this weekend that it is God’s way. Profit sharing. Oh, how I pray that we might be able to believe God for a 2 Corinthians 4:15 work as we partner together:
All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.
I think God particularly blesses our seed sowing when we have no direct involvement at the event or gathering. No personal gain except the glorious nod of God. I’m actively praying for Priscilla Shirer’s simulcast in several weeks even though I’ll be in Fresno. I don’t doubt she’s praying for us, too. I can’t wait to hear the report of all God is going to accomplish through that mighty servant of God as she teaches and as her brother, Anthony, leads worship. This is the will of God for us in Christ Jesus. One Lord. One Body. One Spirit. If the grace of God through Christ is “reaching more and more people,” our thanksgiving overflows to the glory of God!
The group in Tacoma exceeded our expectations in so many ways. Their outpouring for Japan moved us so deeply. Our wonderful brothers and sisters from Samaritan’s Purse were swamped. They were so overwhelmed at the break that we had to keep them open after the event and position them at exit doors They counted dollar bills all afternoon to the tune of $66,025.25. As soon as the horrific tragedy occurred, we asked Samaritan’s Purse if our offering for that LPL could go specifically to relief for Japan and they complied joyfully and set up an immediate fund. (Any of you are welcome to get on their website and also contribute if you feel led and aren’t already giving through another organization. No pressure. Just opportunity.) We are all stunned and heartbroken over the devastation in Japan. It’s just incomprehensible. The images are more than I can wrap my mind around. May “the Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger and abounding in loyal love and faithfulness” show Himself in every possible and undeniable way. May one of those ways be the banding together of His Body around the world to be His hands and a healing balm within them. They need our help.
It’s time for Siesta Scripture Memory Team Verse 6! Ready, Sisters?? Stay with it! I’ll give you my sixth verse (it reminds me of you) then show you a small handful of pictures I took over the weekend on my iPhone.
Beth, Houston. My goal is that their hearts, having been knit together in love, may be encouraged, and that they may have all the riches of understanding of the knowledge of the mystery of God, namely Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Colossians 2:2-3 The NET Bible
OK, here’s some pictures from Tacoma if you want a peek before you chime in with your verse.
This was my one glimpse at The Mountain. We had rain most of the time and, mountain girl that I am, I just kept looking out of my hotel window for a glimpse of that famous sight. While I was studying, I felt a tugging at my heart and I jumped up in hopes that the clouds were lifting somewhat and sure enough, there that bad boy was. I was so happy, I cried.
This was the sunrise the next morning. I was always an early riser as a kid and, now that I am an adult, I know it nearly drove my mother crazy because she’d have preferred her Folgers by herself. (This helps explain to you why I was a coffee drinker by the ripe old age of six.) My dad used to take up for me and say, “The early bird gets the worm!” Well, when I caught a glimpse of that sunrise in Tacoma Saturday morning and fifteen minutes later it was pouring down rain, I knew my Daddy was right.
I can’t believe I’m about to let this come out of my mouth but I had some of the best Mexican food on earth there in Tacoma. I was baffled. Someone had recommended “Masa” (on 6th Street) to us but Michelle and I looked at each other like, “Texans better not try it. We better leave that to the Tennesseans. They might not know better.” But, after the event, we were about to have a meltdown for hot sauce and decided to cave to the pressure. It was so good I couldn’t believe my own taste buds. We started with this unbelievable Bean and Queso dip then, because cheese enchiladas weren’t on the menu, I decided to get Vegetable Fajitas. I’ve never tried them before but I’ve been with Travis and Angela when they’ve ordered them. (And I looked with contempt upon them.) They were unbelievably good. Really fresh – chunky and grilled and topped with cheese. Side of rice and beans. Sara was our waitress and took such good care of us. She’s expecting little Christos in a few months and we loved getting to talk to her. We saw a couple of tables of women from the LPL event, too, and so loved getting to hug their necks.
As if the Mexican Food wasn’t good enough, there was a Stumptown coffee bar attached to it. Talk about the ultimate way to end a meal! I have become a fan of Stumptown through our dear Kelly Minter who considers it a friend that sticks closer than a brother. (My words, not hers.) Michelle has been ordering it for me for a year or so and it’s what I grind and fix about twice a day in my office at LPM. Darla was our barista at the coffee bar in Tacoma and, as I live and breathe, the woman was an artist. Look at this crema. That is not whipped cream. That is how she finished off a Latte with plain-old low fat milk. UNBELIEVABLE. I was so impressed. I wanted to ask her how she dealt with her pride but she seemed astonishingly humble for such a craft. Almost like she didn’t notice she was a rock star.
These were two of the most wonderful women we had at the Tacoma Dome. (Blood) sisters Roxana and Christine sat down nice and close to the front and gave God considerable glory in my earshot. They and their small group wore tiaras to the event so we were blessed to no end by every glimpse of them. That is, of course, Michelle in there with us.
This last picture is of a group of really young women that were having coffee at the Starbucks we went to several hours after Stumptown. (No coffee for me that late. I’m saying that because I know somebody’s going to get into my business. I got Blueberry water but I didn’t want to. I drank four sips.) One of these darling things is getting married next week and had a little veil on. They were so cute we could hardly stand it. Just as they were getting up to leave, one of them looked over at me with wide eyes and asked if we were we.
WHY DIDN’T YOU COME TO THE EVENT??? We asked.
Because we couldn’t afford it!
Then I said: NEVER let me hear you say that again!
We do anything possible to get our college girls tickets to LPL’s. For crying out loud, if somebody’s broke, it doesn’t matter what age they are, we try to get them tickets if they really want to go. LifeWay, too! They are tremendously tenderhearted and willing to do whatever they can to minister and disciple. Tons of tickets were given away to that event in Tacoma. You have no idea how much we’d like to do it for free.
This was my view from the airplane seat just as we were about to put our tray tables up and our seat backs forward for departure. I wanted you to see my cute rain boots peeking out from the bottom. I’ve had them for a couple of years and worn them about a thousand times but they were for such a time as Tacoma.
Well, I’ve rattled your ear off. You guys are important to me. I love you. I think of you everyday. Now, cough up your sixth verse!
Hold tight to Jesus in the ebb and flow of this temporal world. One sweet day this convulsing earth will be made new. The skies will tear open like a veil and every eye will see. Come quickly, Lord Jesus.
Nancy in Sebring FL Hebrews 4:12 NIV For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.” Col. 3:23 – NIV
Traci, Columbus, OH. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
Debbie P
Modesto Ca
Romans 12:2 NIV
2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Alison, Grand Rapids, MI
Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. Colossians 4:6 NIV
Suzanne T., LaGrange, GA: I’ve been at my Mom’s beside after surgery Monday in S.C. and I haven’t upgraded to a smartphone. Hence, I’m a late entry this time:(
Here’s my verse:
“The spirit of the Sovereign LORD is upon me, because the LORD has annointed me to preach the good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives, and release from darkness for the prisoners…” Isaiah 61:1 NIV
Chapel Hill, NC
“There is none holy like the LORD; there is none besides you; there is no rock like our God.”
-1 Samuel 2:2, ESV
Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord.
Prov. 16:20
God talking to me about discipline.
Joshua 1:6-9
“Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them. Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Wasn’t at a computer to log in until now!
Valerie, Altoona, IA
He will not let your foot slip – he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. Psalm 121:3-4, NIV
Colossians 1:11-14NIV
being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and giving joyful thanks to the Father who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.
For he has rescued you from the dominion of darknes and brought you into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption the forgiveness of sins.
PTL!!!!
Holly-Huntsville, AL “The mind of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” Proverbs 16:9
Sorry it’s late!
Megan, The Sunshine State:
Hebrews 10:22
Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance in faith…and let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.
TNIV
Tracie, Taylorville, IL
I lift up my eyes to the hills- where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.
Psalm 121:1-2 [niv}
Corvallis Oregon I’m starting Breaking Free!!!
The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners,
Beth, Ft Collins, CO
I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me-the task of testifying to the gospel of Gods grace.
Acts 20:24 (NIV)
Sonja, Archer
There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under heaven:
Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV
Janet, Wingate, NC
Turn your eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word. Psalm 119:37 NIV
Janet, the picture of your sweet little “Westie” caught my attention! Then I read your scripture. God is working on me in a mighty way, there are so many worthless things that get a hold of our attention and take us away from focusing on Christ. I think God made terriers so we would have a sweet little bundle of love to cuddle with us as we read God’s word! 🙂 From a “Yorkie” Mom in Michigan!
Thank you Victoria! Loved your message!
Oops….that should be “turn my eyes”……Sorry! Janet
Not to us, LORD, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.
Psalm 115:1 NIV
LuAnn, Port Huron, MI Song of Solomon 4:16 ESV Awake, O North wind, and come, O South wind! Blow upon my garden, let it’s spices flow.
Christine, Fort Myers, Florida
“By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:35 NIV
Sabrina
Lincoln Nebraska
Psalm 139:3-4 (NIV)
You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
Before a word is on my tongue
you, LORD, know it completely.
For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.
2 Timothy 1:7
Tracey, Raleigh, NC
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)
Kalyn – Binghamton, NY
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” 1 Joshua 1:9(ESV)
Barb, Shelby Twp., MI My verse #6: John 16:33
“The Message”: “I have told you all this so that trusting Me; you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take Heart! I have conquered the world.”
Proverbs 13:4 The sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied. NIV, 1984
Amy
Birmingham, AL
2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV)
For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
Karen K. in Houston, TX — Willingly I sacrifice to You;
I will give thanks to Your name O LORD, for it is good. Ps 54:6 NASB
The spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And He who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with Gods will.
Romans 8:26-27 NIV
McKinney, Tx
I’ve been on vacation, so sorry for the delay in getting my verse in!
“Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” Col 4:6. NIV
Michelle Brooklyn, CT
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.
Becky, Rushsylvania OH
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV84
Robin, Thorndale, PA
Be even tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive and offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you.
Colossians 3:13 (MSG)
I’m late! I totally felt the Holy Spirit telling me it was time for another verse too, but I was like “no it’s not time just yet.” Lord have mercy…
Kristin Tulare, CA
“Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”
Romans 12:4 NIV
Melody, southern NH.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5 NIV
“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” Psalm 20:7 NIV
“He who belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.” John 8:47 NIV
“Jesus gave them this answer, ‘I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.’ ” John 5:19 NIV
Still memorizing truth along with all of you, but behind on my posting. Catching up here…
Kim B., Clayton, NC
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1 NIV
Linda S.
McCalla, AL
Joshua 1:8 ESV
“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.”
Psalm 144:2 He is my faithful love and my fortress,
my stronghold and my deliverer.
He is my shield, and I take refuge in Him;
He subdues my people under me.
HCSB
Inez Barnes
Hamburg AR
Amber, Euless, TX
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the WOrd was God. John 1:1 NKJV
Elizabeth, Chesterfield, VA:
So be content with who you are, and don’t put on airs. God’s strong hand is on you; he’ll promote you at the right time. Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you.
1 Peter 5: 6-7 (The Message)
Kirsten, San Francisco
James 5:16 NIV
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
Jasdeep
Toronto, ON =]
Psalms 90:12-17 (NIV)
Teach us to number our days alright,
That we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Relent, O Lord! How long will it be?
Have compassion on your servants.
Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love,
That we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.
Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us,
For as many years as we have seen trouble.
May your deeds be shown to your servants,
Your splendour to their children.
May the favour of the Lord or God rest upon us:
Establish the work of our hands for us-
Yes, establish the work of our hands.
“Do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9
Jesus gave them this answer: “I tell you the truth the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees the Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. John 5:19 NIV
Jennifer – Indianapolis
He must become greater. I must become less.
John 3:30 (NIV)
Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and youll recover your life. Ill show you how to take a real rest.
Matt 11:28 The Message
Tami, KC, MO
Sheila, Beckley, WV, But I have trusted in Your mercy; My heart shall rejoice in Your salvation. I will sing to the Lord because He has dealt bountifully with me. Psalm 13:5-6
Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. Colossians 4:6 NIV
Brandi Larsen
Danville, In.
NIV…..and I know I’m late…..soooo sorry. Its been a really bad week!
James 1:26
If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight reign on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless.
Cathy, Loxahatchee, FL
Galatians 6:9 NIV
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.