During my homework for one of my mission courses, I learned that God tends to speak to Muslims through dreams and visions, which then usually leads them to conversion to Christianity. I was pondering that, trying to think about why God would choose to speak to them specifically in that way. I was talking about it with my prof, and perhaps it's just that they are more open to that than some people. I know that there are many of us who have dreams, and sometimes they are weird, but other times they seem to have meaning and significance of some sort. I think it is so neat that God can use dreams to draw people closer to him, so that they will want to seek after him.
I was also thinking about persecution, and about how it can make people stronger. It isn't that we have to go looking for it to actually have more faith. I guess it just depends on what situation we are in and how God calls us to react. For instance, if I was in a country where they told me not to speak about God, I could obey them, but only do it in hiding; or I could disobey them, and continue speaking about God freely, trusting that it will bring glory to His name, especially through my own persecution. There is a verse, Psalm 116:15, which says, "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints." Perhaps I am taking it out of context, but I looked at the verses before and after and it did not seem to make sense with either ones. Correct me if I am wrong, but I believe that whatever we do, whether we live or die for Christ, we are bringing glory to God. That is the heart of the matter.
Another thing I was thinking about is this:
what is our commitment to God as compared to other religions?
This is something I have to remind myself of often, especially when I am learning about Islam, where they pray five times a day. I know this is legalistic in a sense, and God does not have said "rules" for us to follow, per se, however, he does say pray without ceasing(1 Thess. 5:17). Are we commited to prayer, to fasting, to meditation of us word, and other spiritual disciplines, such as tithing, and solitude? He says, "Be still, and know that I am God" (Ps. 46:10). When do we stop and think about all that He has done, contemplate just who God is? People from other religions can put us to shame sometimes, with their dedication. This isn't about comparison, though. This is about you and God. Your relationship. And it's about you and God and the body of Christ. How do we relate to other Christians? Do we let them encourage us, and pray for us, do we encourage and support them? Do we rebuke them when they are doing wrong things like we are supposed to? How committed are we?
Love,
Ashleigh
8.13.2009
8.11.2009
Lanacane and Chocolate Covered Cranberries...
Yesterday as I was going to go out of my mind crazy like I have been for the past couple of days, I went to Zehrs in hopes to find a strong substance with which to give my feet a blessed break from the painful itching. I ran into a lady I know who works there, and she suggested that I try Lanacane instead of After Bite. I was hesitant, but bought it anyways, even though it is quite a bit more expensive. I put it on my feet, and had relief, not just for the moment, but for quite literally HOURS afterwards. I feel like I could do a testimonial for their company, I am so impressed.
Caitlyn bought chocolate covered Cranberries, and I think they are the most delicious thing ever. Even more than chocolate covered raisins, which I am usually very fond of.
I have been given so many things to think about lately, and it is somewhat overwhelming. I am not much of a thinker for things that matter, so it's a little bit hard at times, but I am excited for how God is stretching me and my mind.
Last night was fun, as we went out for dinner to celebrate Nathaniel's birthday. It was great to get together with friends and laugh and eat and share food. I enjoyed it :)
Love,
Ashleigh
Caitlyn bought chocolate covered Cranberries, and I think they are the most delicious thing ever. Even more than chocolate covered raisins, which I am usually very fond of.
I have been given so many things to think about lately, and it is somewhat overwhelming. I am not much of a thinker for things that matter, so it's a little bit hard at times, but I am excited for how God is stretching me and my mind.
Last night was fun, as we went out for dinner to celebrate Nathaniel's birthday. It was great to get together with friends and laugh and eat and share food. I enjoyed it :)
Love,
Ashleigh
8.10.2009
Where the heart is...
The Plan:
1.) Go to work
2.) Work work work
3.) Finish work
4.) Go to Nathaniel's birthday party
5.) Eat eat eat
6.) Come home
7.) Putter
8.) Dream of sleep............
So, that's the plan is it? Well I like it!!!
Love,
Ash
1.) Go to work
2.) Work work work
3.) Finish work
4.) Go to Nathaniel's birthday party
5.) Eat eat eat
6.) Come home
7.) Putter
8.) Dream of sleep............
So, that's the plan is it? Well I like it!!!
Love,
Ash
8.09.2009
A million mosquito bites...
I am running on maybe 7 hours sleep in the past 2 days, due to the very real fact that my mosquito bites make it very difficult to get some good shut-eye. I never said I liked them, but I am starting to see how God uses the mundane and annoying things in life to draw us closer to Him.
When you can't sleep at night, you start to do things you wouldn't normally do, like take time to listen to sermons (maybe for some of you that is part of your daily routine, and I commend you!). The one I chose was on prayer, and the pastor(Mark Driscoll) did an excellent job with it. I took notes while I was listening, and I am very encouraged to pray! His sermon was outlining how we can pattern our prayer after the way Jesus prayed.
I was just sitting there, slightly annoyed at how early I was up, when all of a sudden I realized, "Hey, there is a purpose in this; when I don't take time to spend focusing on God, sometimes He does things to get our attention, and He does it in the most unpredictable of ways!"
It was neat, because I couldn't get to sleep at all in the first place. I decided to be proactive, and soaked my feet in chammomile tea. It worked, and I felt sleepy, and fell asleep on the couch for two hours. When I moved to my bed, the effects of the soaking lasted for only two hours after that. However, I did get four hours sleep, which I am so grateful for, as it is definitely better than nothing.
I am just grateful for the way God grabbed my attention, and said, "Hey! I want to spend some time with you! I need to tell you some things that you need to hear!"
Sometimes a million mosquito bites can prove to be less annoying than one would think...
Love,
Ashleigh
When you can't sleep at night, you start to do things you wouldn't normally do, like take time to listen to sermons (maybe for some of you that is part of your daily routine, and I commend you!). The one I chose was on prayer, and the pastor(Mark Driscoll) did an excellent job with it. I took notes while I was listening, and I am very encouraged to pray! His sermon was outlining how we can pattern our prayer after the way Jesus prayed.
I was just sitting there, slightly annoyed at how early I was up, when all of a sudden I realized, "Hey, there is a purpose in this; when I don't take time to spend focusing on God, sometimes He does things to get our attention, and He does it in the most unpredictable of ways!"
It was neat, because I couldn't get to sleep at all in the first place. I decided to be proactive, and soaked my feet in chammomile tea. It worked, and I felt sleepy, and fell asleep on the couch for two hours. When I moved to my bed, the effects of the soaking lasted for only two hours after that. However, I did get four hours sleep, which I am so grateful for, as it is definitely better than nothing.
I am just grateful for the way God grabbed my attention, and said, "Hey! I want to spend some time with you! I need to tell you some things that you need to hear!"
Sometimes a million mosquito bites can prove to be less annoying than one would think...
Love,
Ashleigh
8.08.2009
When love takes over...
I am listening to a techno song called "when love takes over". It's SOOOO good, and I can't stop replaying it!!
Last night Jake and I went on a date down by the river, and I got mosquito bites all over my feet again! You would think i would have learned from the last time. I am not all that upset- they are worth every moment that I spent with him!
It was the best day ever at work. We were quite steady, and we made so much money! The day went by fast, and I was so happy!
I hung out with Missy tonight, kept her company because she was feeling lonely. That's the best part about having friends, they are always there for you when you need them!
Love,
Ashleigh
Last night Jake and I went on a date down by the river, and I got mosquito bites all over my feet again! You would think i would have learned from the last time. I am not all that upset- they are worth every moment that I spent with him!
It was the best day ever at work. We were quite steady, and we made so much money! The day went by fast, and I was so happy!
I hung out with Missy tonight, kept her company because she was feeling lonely. That's the best part about having friends, they are always there for you when you need them!
Love,
Ashleigh
8.07.2009
Whining? No me likey...
It doesn't happen very often, but today I feel like whining. And complaining. And anything else you can think of to make my life feel more miserable.
That's the worst part. It isn't miserable, and I know that. Just today I woke up feeling unrested, and then have felt very "not myself" for the rest of the day. It's just one of those things women go through sometimes, and only women understand. How unfortunate.
However, I am resolved to not let this mood take over. I am in control of the situation, I must CHOOSE joy, even when I don't feel like it at the time.
Tomorrow I am going to work with my manager. It will be strange to work a Saturday with only 2 people, but hopefully that means the day might go by faster.
I should go, going on a date with Jake tonight :D At least it's a nice night for a walk.
Love,
Ashleigh
That's the worst part. It isn't miserable, and I know that. Just today I woke up feeling unrested, and then have felt very "not myself" for the rest of the day. It's just one of those things women go through sometimes, and only women understand. How unfortunate.
However, I am resolved to not let this mood take over. I am in control of the situation, I must CHOOSE joy, even when I don't feel like it at the time.
Tomorrow I am going to work with my manager. It will be strange to work a Saturday with only 2 people, but hopefully that means the day might go by faster.
I should go, going on a date with Jake tonight :D At least it's a nice night for a walk.
Love,
Ashleigh
8.06.2009
We're so far away...
This is officially my 300th post on this blog since March of 2006. That may not seem like many after more than 3 years of writing blogs here, but it's still something worth celebrating. I have really enjoyed sharing some thoughts, and there is something singularly satisfying about seeing one of my blogs post, knowing that at least ONE person will read it and comment. It's not that my life is particularly interesting, but somehow I just enjoy sharing. The interesting part is that I not only write blogs some days, but also write in my journal..... I have a lot to say and think about.
I have been reading in Judges lately during my devotions. This morning I was reading about Gideon and how God called a simple man to do his work in saving Israel from the Midianites. It was incredible how even in ancient Bible times people did the same things we do now. Gideon was complaining to God about how weak he was, and how he couldn't do anything, even when God had JUST finished saying that he would be right there with him. I know I often call myself weak in the face of things I cannot accomplish. But if God can promise to be with someone like Gideon, I am no different!
Nana sent me this in an e-mail, and I decided to post it here today:
21 Reasons Why You Are Blessed!
1. If you own a Bible, you are abundantly blessed – about 1/3 of the world does not have access to one.
2. If you wake up each morning with more health than illness, you are blessed to rise and shine, to live and to serve in a new day.
3. If you have anyone on the planet, just one person that loves you and listens to you; count this a blessing.
4. If you can freely attend a church meeting without fear, then you are more blessed than over 1/3 of the world.
5. If you have a yearning in your heart to parent a child, you are blessed because you still desire what you cannot see.
6. If you pray today or any day, you are blessed because you believe in God’s willingness to hear your prayer.
7. If you pray for someone else, you are blessed because you want to help others also.
8. If you have food in your refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof over your head, and a place to sleep; all at the same time; you are rich in this world.
9. If you have a brother or sister in Christ that will pray with you and for you, you benefit from a spiritual unity, bond, and agreement, which the gates of hell cannot stand against.
10. If you have any earthly family that even halfway loves you and support you, you are blessed beyond measure.
11. If you attend a church with a church family that offers you one word of encouragement, you are blessed with some form of fellowship.
12. If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, or some spare change in a dish someplace you are among the world’s wealthy.
13. If you can go to bed each night, knowing that God loves you, you are blessed beyond measure.
14. If you try each day to imitate our Lord Jesus Christ for even a minute, you are blessed because you show a willingness to grow up in Him.
15. If you can read this message, you are more blessed than about 2/3 of the world.
16. If you have never had to endure the hardship and agony of battle, imprisonment, or torture, you are blessed in indescribable measure.
17. If you have a voice to sing His praises, a voice to witness God’s love, and a voice to share the gospel, you are blessed. About 1/3 of the world does not even know who the one true God is.
18. If you can hold someone’s hand, hug another person, touch someone on the shoulder, you are blessed because you can offer God’s healing touch.
19. If you can share a word of encouragement with someone else, and do it with His love in your heart, you are blessed because you have learned how to give.
20. If you have the conviction to stand fast upon His Word and His promises, no matter what, you are blessed because you are learning patience, endurance, and tenacity.
21. If you hold up your head with a smile on your face and are truly thankful, you are blessed because most people can, but won’t.
It looks like another beautiful day today, and I hope you can all enjoy it.
Love,
Ashleigh
I have been reading in Judges lately during my devotions. This morning I was reading about Gideon and how God called a simple man to do his work in saving Israel from the Midianites. It was incredible how even in ancient Bible times people did the same things we do now. Gideon was complaining to God about how weak he was, and how he couldn't do anything, even when God had JUST finished saying that he would be right there with him. I know I often call myself weak in the face of things I cannot accomplish. But if God can promise to be with someone like Gideon, I am no different!
Nana sent me this in an e-mail, and I decided to post it here today:
21 Reasons Why You Are Blessed!
1. If you own a Bible, you are abundantly blessed – about 1/3 of the world does not have access to one.
2. If you wake up each morning with more health than illness, you are blessed to rise and shine, to live and to serve in a new day.
3. If you have anyone on the planet, just one person that loves you and listens to you; count this a blessing.
4. If you can freely attend a church meeting without fear, then you are more blessed than over 1/3 of the world.
5. If you have a yearning in your heart to parent a child, you are blessed because you still desire what you cannot see.
6. If you pray today or any day, you are blessed because you believe in God’s willingness to hear your prayer.
7. If you pray for someone else, you are blessed because you want to help others also.
8. If you have food in your refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof over your head, and a place to sleep; all at the same time; you are rich in this world.
9. If you have a brother or sister in Christ that will pray with you and for you, you benefit from a spiritual unity, bond, and agreement, which the gates of hell cannot stand against.
10. If you have any earthly family that even halfway loves you and support you, you are blessed beyond measure.
11. If you attend a church with a church family that offers you one word of encouragement, you are blessed with some form of fellowship.
12. If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, or some spare change in a dish someplace you are among the world’s wealthy.
13. If you can go to bed each night, knowing that God loves you, you are blessed beyond measure.
14. If you try each day to imitate our Lord Jesus Christ for even a minute, you are blessed because you show a willingness to grow up in Him.
15. If you can read this message, you are more blessed than about 2/3 of the world.
16. If you have never had to endure the hardship and agony of battle, imprisonment, or torture, you are blessed in indescribable measure.
17. If you have a voice to sing His praises, a voice to witness God’s love, and a voice to share the gospel, you are blessed. About 1/3 of the world does not even know who the one true God is.
18. If you can hold someone’s hand, hug another person, touch someone on the shoulder, you are blessed because you can offer God’s healing touch.
19. If you can share a word of encouragement with someone else, and do it with His love in your heart, you are blessed because you have learned how to give.
20. If you have the conviction to stand fast upon His Word and His promises, no matter what, you are blessed because you are learning patience, endurance, and tenacity.
21. If you hold up your head with a smile on your face and are truly thankful, you are blessed because most people can, but won’t.
It looks like another beautiful day today, and I hope you can all enjoy it.
Love,
Ashleigh
8.05.2009
Cinnamon Toast Crunch...
Eating cereal is usually not my favourite pastime, unless I dearly it. I bought cinnamon toast crunch yesterday, which normally I would not, but it was on sale. I LOVE this cereal, however much it can be called "cereal". I am sure there is no nutritious content whatsoever, but it just tastes so good.
I am planning on doing some more homework today. In the meantime, I am reading a good book by one of my favourite Christian authors Ted Dekker, called "Kiss". It is quite suspenseful and full of adventure.
Love,
Ashleigh
I am planning on doing some more homework today. In the meantime, I am reading a good book by one of my favourite Christian authors Ted Dekker, called "Kiss". It is quite suspenseful and full of adventure.
Love,
Ashleigh
8.04.2009
Banks and Blisters...
I am so happy to have my roommate back. Caitlyn and I keep missing each other, whether I am at hoome and she is here, or whether she is at home, or I am here. It didn't matter. I don't think I have seen her for quite possibly a month. However, we have been reunited today and I was able to go to the mall and hang out with her and Kaitlyn. I went to the bank.
I have mother blisters on my feet. They really hurt. But that's ok. They remind me of the date I went on with Jake on Sunday night. WE dressed up fancy, him in his suit and me in my dress, and went out for dinner. I had to walk in my bare feet most of the way, but that's alright. We had in awesome time, which is the understatement of the year. I love dating him :D
I am listening to the noisy hum of the air conditioning, which defeats the purpose of my open window. I enjoy listening to the rain outside, and the gentle rustle of the wind through the leaves. An occassional crack of thunder will startle me, but I am safe inside, not having to go to work, and that's just fine with me.
Love,
Ashleigh
I have mother blisters on my feet. They really hurt. But that's ok. They remind me of the date I went on with Jake on Sunday night. WE dressed up fancy, him in his suit and me in my dress, and went out for dinner. I had to walk in my bare feet most of the way, but that's alright. We had in awesome time, which is the understatement of the year. I love dating him :D
I am listening to the noisy hum of the air conditioning, which defeats the purpose of my open window. I enjoy listening to the rain outside, and the gentle rustle of the wind through the leaves. An occassional crack of thunder will startle me, but I am safe inside, not having to go to work, and that's just fine with me.
Love,
Ashleigh
8.01.2009
Not the 300th post...
So yesterday I made the mistake of thinking it was the 300th post. However, upon checking my records of actual posts, I discovered that I had about 3 drafts somewhere in there, and they were only "pretend" postings. How disappointing. I am pretty sure by Monday or Tuesday I will have my 300th post. Then we can celebrate!
Work was, yet again, not very busy last night. I had fun afterwards, though, because I went to Starbucks and hung out with some of my friends. Today I am working and then going to Jake's brother's birthday party. It should be fun!
Enjoy the sun.
Take a walk.
Carpe diem.
Love, Ashleigh
Work was, yet again, not very busy last night. I had fun afterwards, though, because I went to Starbucks and hung out with some of my friends. Today I am working and then going to Jake's brother's birthday party. It should be fun!
Enjoy the sun.
Take a walk.
Carpe diem.
Love, Ashleigh
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