God's Small Voice

Painting TRUTH

" In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ...The mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and shares together in the promise of Christ Jesus." Eph 3:4-6
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith-and this is not from yourselves, it is a gift of God-not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Eph 2:8-10
"Therefor he is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, because he always lives to intercede for them."
Heb 7:25

Painting can be very tiring, especially when you have to keep your arm up and make sure every stoke is perfect. The last few days I have been working at Chicago Hope Academy, a small Christian school. I am painting Bible verses on the walls so that eveyone who walks through the school can remember God's Word and live it out. Today was my third day painting. A few of the teachers, office secritaries, and students have stopped by to talk with me and make comments. Kiwa and I have chatted a few times between his to and fro from maintaining the school building. Kiwa is a middle aged man who shines Christ. All he can talk about is the Lord and what He has done for him. He is very simple and doesn't take pride in his postion or social status but rather in knowing the Lord Jesus Christ.

Today Kiwa stopped by while I was bablancing myself on a countertop with a paintbrush in hand. He started talking and I just listened. Truth just spilled from his mouth as he talked about the simplicity of reading God's word and praying. He knows he does not have strength to live everyday on his own or even overcome sin, so while he works or at home he prays and trys to encourage everyone he meets.

Kilwa's words were very encouraging to me. I think he has had a rough life yet knows his worth in Christ. He has this glow about him and is rubs off on the people who talk to Kiwa.He sticks to God's word and doesn't let students or others puh him around.
Sometimes I try so hard to do what I "think" God wants but I end up frustrated with my efforts. Above are a few verses I found while reading. This is how God sees his children. It's so simple. We can't do anything on our own but His GRACE is perfect and His promises for me and you will NEVER fail. He might use a simple man or woman to remind you of his grace and love.

posted by Ruth @ 1:55 PM Comments: 0

Sitting in the Father's lap

Someone told me I should try to keep up on updating my blog- i have to admit this is a weak point of mine-blogging that is. Tonight Ill keep it short. I find myself in a place searching and yet often times missing Christ. He desires to express His love for us in a personal way, but i skirm like a little kid trying to get out of dad's hug. God is the full expression of love. He is the perfect dad and doesnt force anything on us but loves it when we choose to be with Him. This life on earth can be so dreary and oppressing without Jesus' forgiveness and blood covering. Thank God I am called his child.
In Max Lucado's book he quotes 2 Thes 3:5 "May the Lord lead your hearts into God's love and Christ's patience."
It's short but sweet I think. Watching tv with my mom tonight made me feel spiritually and physically sick. I can see how ugly sin truly is, and how refreshing the Lord's love is. God the Father looks at me as perfect and acceptable because Jesus loved me on the cross. Even when i completely mess up he is ready to forgive and let me sit in his lap again. Sometimes I even try to figure out my problems or questions about the future...it is the most frustrating place to be. But when i give up trying and sit before my Father he leads me into his love and makes my path straight. Am I satisfied in His presence and love?

posted by Ruth @ 10:33 PM Comments: 0