Perfect (1985--John Travolta, Jamie Lee Curtis)

I am basking in the glow of God's glory today. My mind keeps drifting to, Ephesians 3:20-21, "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen"

Our God is so powerful and perfect in all His ways. Do you ever just sit and think about His ability to do "immeasurably more than ALL we ask or IMAGINE???" Just imagine your best life, your hopes, dreams, and greatest aspirations...God is able to do MORE than that! I've seen it in my life and am currently walking through a season of Him calling me into ministry and places through which I never ever thought I would walk.

For months, I've been praying about an area of ministry and felt led to address it with a particular person in my church. I felt the Lord leading me in this direction. But, I needed clarity. Then, out of the blue, someone calls me to ask about this very ministry. This person has no idea about my prayers and just happened to be calling on behalf of the individual about which I'd been praying to address.

You see, neither of them knew about my prayers or how God was already preparing me in this area. But, the Lord knew. As He was working in my heart, He was also working in the heart of the man to which I wanted to speak. The Lord perfectly knit our hearts on one accord without us ever knowing or discussing what God was doing.

When I think about how powerful and active God is, I never 'really' think He'll do something like that. For, the way my Lord works is beyond my imagination or comprehension. I think I know Him and how He'll do things. But, after all these years of walking with Him, reading about Him, trusting Him, and seeing Him move...He still manages to blow my mind everyday.

My God is perfect in all His ways. For His glory, He is still doing more than we can imagine.

Cry Baby (Johnny Depp, 1990)

My youngest son has obviously decided to enter the terrible two's a few months early. He's the cutest, most determined, and smartest little boy. But, when something doesn't go his way, he throws his pacifier (or whatever happens to be close by), falls into the floor, and begins kicking, crying, and rolling around.

So, what do I do? I absolutely ignore him. I do not become upset or even look at him. I often walk away and busy myself with something else. Well...never one to give up, my son runs to me, falls onto my legs and proceeds to throw a tantrum all over my legs and feet. He is persistent, will hold on for dear life, and cry all over me.

Maybe you're one of those really compassionate moms who immediately comforts her child during behavior like that. But not this Sassy Girl. I usually think, "Dude. You are so cute...but you're really getting on my last nerve." So, in an effort to teach him he will not receive what he wants by that behavior, I usually put him in time out. He straightens up pretty quickly after that.

Reflecting on it, I realize how blessed I am that my God is not like me. He doesn't run or turn away when I cry out. He isn't frustrated when I fall at His feet and cry out regarding the issues of my heart. He hears me and understands my concerns--even if they are small by man's standards. When I throw a tantrum on God, I may look a little more composed than my youngest. But, in my heart, I can be that same kid rolling around on the floor wailing because I WANT IT NOW. Thankfully, the Lord is always there. In fact, He encourages me through His word to come to Him.

Whatever your issue or need is today, don't view God as a parent like me. He's not irritated by your crying out to Him. He does not turn away or pretend you're not there. He will not put you in time out if you fall at His feet. In fact, He WANTS us to persist and hold on to Him. He tells us to "cast all 'our' anxiety on Him because He cares for 'us'." So, don't hold it in or think He's too busy for you. Go ahead. Cry out to Jesus!

(Psalm 55:16-17, and 22, Luke 18:1-8, 1 Peter 5:7,)

Shape of My Heart (Backstreet Boys, 2000)

While talking with a friend today, I shared a trial I'm living through. She did the same. In the end, we both decided, sometimes the process of being on the potter's wheel absolutely sucks! Instead of being put on a wheel, turned every which way, and pushed & prodded into something useful, we'd much prefer to just instantly become beautiful vases!

The Word tells us to "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds..." But, let's just be honest for a moment. How often do you encounter trouble and think about how excited you are to endure it? Not much? Me neither. Truthfully, sometimes, God is working on me and it's great! Other times, I just want to skip the painful process and get to the good stuff.

But, as I look back over my life and consider all the troubles...I know they

produced great things. Yes! There was plenty of pain and sorrow. But, the work done in my heart for Christ, has been greater. It's been true in my life that the testing of my faith has developed perseverance. More than that, it's taught me to trust the Lord and depend on Him for change and true healing. Only He can do it!

Through every trial, He's proven Himself faithful and true. I often don't understand or even like what He's doing. But, in the end, He brings me through stronger, better, and more faithful. He uses every trial to shape me more into a vessel He can use.

It's so true that His ways are so much higher than ours. So, while we endure these sometimes sucky situations, let's cling to Him and never doubt His love for us. He's not trying to hurt us. He's trying to heal and free us from every hurt...and sometimes, that's a painful process.

(James 1:2-3, Isa. 55:9, Jeremiah 18:1-6)

Satisfaction (Justine Bateman, Liam Neeson, 1988)

"Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always." (1 Chronicles 16:10-11)

I've spent countless hours in prayer asking God for things: more of this, more of that, less of this... But, right now I'm wondering how many hours I've spent asking God for the only thing that never passes away: Him!

I know God does not withhold Himself from me. However, to walk in the power of His presence, I must seek His will, ways, and voice in my life daily. I must die to myself and allow Him to increase in me. It's not that He's not there. It's that sometimes I don't acknowledge He's there.

Lately, I've found myself dwelling on many things that do not really matter. They are things that can never ultimately satisfy me. They are distractions. Even some of the good things I want can distract me from the main thing: Jesus and Him crucified.

So, today, instead of asking for more stuff...more blessings...I'm asking God for more of Him! I am asking Him to be so manifest and powerful in my life that I forget all the "stuff" and just bask in the contentment of knowing and belonging to an eternal, living, and loving God! After all, no thing God gives can truly satisfy me. Once I have it, I'm on to the next biggest and greatest thing. But...Jesus...there's no other God like Him. He alone can satisfy all my soul's desires.

Crazy (Mercy Me, 2005)

Sassy just needs a minute to state for the record that most insults aimed at me because of my faith don't bother me. So, here's a few sassy thoughts to chew on...

Am I a Jesus Freak?
If that means I love Jesus, know He is real, asked Him into my heart, and seek to live for Him...then...YEP! Pretty much a Jesus freak

Am I very religious?
Yes! But, it's based in a relationship with Jesus Christ not traditions of man.

Do I wear my religion on my sleeve?
No! I wear it in my heart..and what's in my heart shows up in my life. It shows in the things I enjoy, the things I spend time doing, and in the things from which I abstain.

Do I think I'm better than anyone else?
Definitely not! That's why Christ's sacrifice on the cross of Calvary is so amazing to me. He took my sin to the cross knowing how lacking in faith and weak I'd be even after knowing him.

Do I think I'm perfect?
Nope! That's why I need a Savior. I'm far from perfect but completely forgiven! "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God," (Romans 3:23)

Do I believe Jesus is the only way?
Yes. Sorry. Don't get mad at me. It's God's Word. I didn't write it but my faith is in it! "Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6)

Do I believe you have to go to church to be a Saved?
Nope. But, I do believe you need to actively commit and fellowship with the body of Christ (in a church) to be a true disciple. When you look at the 12 disciples, they walked intimately with the Lord and didn't forsake assembling with one another to learn from, worship, be held accountable to, and gain power from Christ. Then, they went out and they 'were the church' in their communities and world. We have the same call. (Heb. 10:25 and Mark 16:15)

Faithful (Brooke Fraser, 2008)

I'm currently doing a Bible study by Priscilla Shirer about the book of Jonah. She asks us to examine how our lives has been interrupted...how life isn't what we though it would be. It led me to reflect on how different people in the Bible lived through the same thing. Can you imagine a twelve year life interruption?

That's what the woman with the issue of blood experienced. For years she lived with the pain and isolation of her condition. It seemed like every attempt to help her had created more suffering. She probably felt forgotten, insignificant, and hopeless. Yet, when she heard Jesus was passing by, she went after him. She pressed through every emotion, experience, and even a huge crowd, to get to Jesus. You see, she needed a miracle. She needed to touch the Savior and receive healing...and nothing was going to stand in her way.

In our hopeless places, we need that kind of faith. Sometimes, it's difficult to see the light or believe that after all this time, God will heal our broken places and situations. But, if we move past our emotions and experiences, if we push through all the chaos and press into the Savior, He has healing just for us! (Matt. 9:20-22; Mark 5:25-34; Luke 8:43-47)

I Know Who I Am?? (Israel Houghton, 2008)

I can tell you all about who Jesus is and who I am "in" Him. I know and can explain to others that I am God's workmanship (Eph. 2:10), a new creation (2 Cor. 5:17), a child of light (1 Thess. 5:5), a joint heir with Christ (Rom. 8:17), chosen, holy, beloved (Col. 3:12)...the list goes on and on. But, recently, instead of living in who Christ has said I am, I've tried to fit a self-created identity and failed miserably.

Demanding excellence, I've always been very critical of what I do, how I look, and the things I accomplish. It is not necessarily for God's glory, but for my desire to be the best, that I care about these things. As such, lately, I've fallen into the trap of living to fit a mold to which I told myself I must conform. It's no wonder I've failed. After all, I am trying to be someone I am not. The Lord never required me to be Mrs. Perfect Super Woman/Mom/Wife/Servant. He simply called me to listen to and obey Him--to be His child...His servant...His friend.

Maybe you can relate. Have you ever found yourself trying to 'be' someone that your pride told you to be? Instead of walking in all the grace, peace, and power that comes with your Christ-identity, you settled--like I did--for a lesser identity you imposed on yourself?

If you've been there, then join me today, in allowing the Lord to completely liberate us from the idol of 'image' and transform us by the renewing of our minds (Rom. 12:2). Pray with me asking Him to increase as we decrease (John 3:30). For it's by His grace alone that we are who we are (1 Cor. 15:10).

I Need The Every Hour (Selah, 2004)

Since having my second child, I'm faced more and more each day with the reality of how inadequate I am as a parent. Without God's grace and guidance, these poor kids would probably be in a world of trouble. Some days I'm sleep deprived, anxious, irritable, and fatigued. Saying I'm not my best would be an understatement.

When I think about how often I call on the name of the Lord throughout each day, it makes me smile. Part of me is amused at how I must sound to God like my two year old sounds to me sometimes. Another part of me smiles because I know the Lord is using this time to show me how much I need him...and I surely need him!!

Proverbs 3:5-8 reminds me to trust in the LORD with all my heart and do not lean on my own understanding. In all my ways acknowledge Him, and He will make my paths straight. I must not be wise in my own eyes but must fear the LORD and turn away from evil. It will be healing to my body and refreshment to my bones. I used to think of this scripture only in regards to fleeing sin. But, today, it speaks to me of my need to rely on the Lord's guidance in everyday living--even things like parenting and mundane monotonous housework.

I've learned to not think my schedule and plans for the day are written in stone. Been there, done that, and it often ends in my having a meltdown when things don't go my way. But, as I seek the Lord and ask His direction for each day, He makes my path straight and leads me to what He ordained for me. Learning to rely on Him has been so freeing. It's truly been healing to my body and refreshment to my bones!! It takes the pressure off me and puts it in the hands of the ONLY one who can handle it: My Lord. He knows what's best for me and these precious babies entrusted into my care. So, I am trusting His direction instead of my own!

Steady On (Point of Grace, 2002)

Okay, so I've never professed to be the most decisive of people. That's my disclaimer for today since I'm going to deviate from Philippians 4. Instead, I want to look at Philippians 3:13-14.

Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; But this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind me, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

I've heard many a sermon and spoken with so many that see "those things behind" as all the sinful acts from which we've been redeemed once we repent. I definitely see that in these verses. But, today, the Lord reminded me of some other aspects of "those things which are behind."

Let's admit it, sometimes, sin feels good to our flesh. So, there are times Satan tries to use those past things to not make us feel guilty, but to make us feel good. I can recall instances in life when he's tried to remind me of how good it felt to sin in my anger, act like a glutton, gossip, or engage in immoral behavior. But, when I line that up with God's Word and think about the life I have in Jesus Christ, I know those things that once felt good to my flesh were grief to my spirit. Though they felt good for a moment, the end was death. Death of a relationship, my kindness, integrity...the list goes on and on. So, thank the Lord that He gives me perspective when Satan tries to remind me of those sinfully fun things of my past.

Also, sometimes, there are things in my past that were God glorifying great works. That's good, right? Sure it is...but not if I dwell on them to excuse myself from what God is calling me to complete today. At times, the enemy uses those things to try and increase apathy in me. I find myself thinking: "Well Lord, I spent all day praying and worshipping you yesterday. It's not that crucial if I don't put you first today." Even if I felt the Lord nudging me towards a particular act of worship or service, I'm sad to admit that I've been guilty of thinking: "But, I did _____. Why can't someone else do that?" But, God calls me from glory to glory to glory, not to rest on the good works of yesterday.

So today, the Lord is reminding me to forget those things in my past that would hinder me in anyway: Forget those sinful acts that Satan would use to make me feel defeated; forget those sins that Satan lies and tells me were just for fun; and forget the "great" things that I think I've done for the Lord. Instead, continue on to the works He's calling me to complete today. Everyday of this Christian walk, I'm given new grace, new power, and new blessings! So, I'm going to forget the old and press on toward the prize of my high calling!

Again I Say Rejoice (Israel Houghton & New Breed, 2004)

Philippians 4 is among my favorite chapters in the Bible. It's a perfect model for walking in contentment. Today, I find myself in great need of a reminder. For, as Sassy draws near to her due date, she's kind of hating the world. Although, I'm not ornery or moody--as my actions do not define me, Christ does--I sure am behaving that way lately. So, today, I need a reminder in dieing to this flesh of mine.

Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:4-7)

I used to believe the peace of God was automatic. However, reading these verses reminds me that it requires active participation on my part. To tap into that peace, my focus must lie in the correct place. That place is not only in the Lord, but rejoicing in Him--remember who He is, what He's done, how He loves me--and rejoicing in that. Just imagine. If we spent our days with that focus, there wouldn't much time to fall into the ornery pattern I've been in lately. With that focus, I'm enabled to better practice gentleness and grace because I recognize that the Lord does the same with me. Thank you Jesus!

Join Sassy in practicing verses 4 and 5 today. We'll delve into the others as the week progresses. But for today, the challenge of turning my focus from myself to my Lord and others, is more than enough!

Out of Sight (Jennifer Lopez, George Clooney, 1998)

Then the LORD answered me and said, write the vision. And inscribe it on tablets, That the one who reads it may run. For the vision is yet for the appointed time; It hastens toward the goal and it will not fail. Though it tarries, wait for it; For it will certainly come, it will not delay.

I sat in a financial stewardship Bible study class recently. During the course, a student mentioned the above scripture from Hab. 2. He made the point that this scripture can apply to budgeting our money. His point was that we need to write down our financial plans and diligently work toward them. Do not be discouraged if it takes time. Keep working toward your vision and it will one day come to pass. His point struck me so profoundly. I'd never considered how that scripture could apply to my attempts to get out of debt!

Then, I realized, it can apply to so much more in life. No matter what your goal is, if it's something that God would desire for you, it will come to pass. Even if it tarries, just keep working and waiting. It will certainly come and not delay.

Whatever the vision: Weight loss, debt reduction, dropping a bad habit, earning a degree...write it down; work towards it; do not give up; do not faint. Even if you can't see it, the Lord will accomplish it in your life!

The Heartbreak Kid (Charles Grobin, 1973)

During the Christmas season, I typically attend a local production that features the life of Christ: His birth, miracles, crucifixion, and resurrection. As odd as it sounds, today, the crucifixion held special comfort for me. Viewing (a watered down version of) it reminded that not only did Jesus take my sins to the cross, He also took my pains. Every hurt that I endure, He's already handled.

I have a sweet sweet friend who recently experienced a terrible loss. It's a type of grief with which Sassy is personally acquainted. So, I have been contemplating the grief and loss she must feel. But, just as there was for me, there is a balm for her pain--and it's found in the cross.

As I watched the play today, I was reminded of how true it is that God's grace is sufficient for me and His power is made perfect in my weakness (2 Cor. 12:9). So, when the hard times come, I cast all my cares on Him because truly He cares for me (I Peter 5:7).

One day, my God will wipe every tear from our eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for that order of things will pass away (Rev 2:14). Until then, I find comfort in knowing that The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit (Psalms 34:18).

Cry Baby (Johnny Depp, 1984)

You can learn so many spiritual lessons from children. The Lord dropped a pretty big one in my lap as I witnessed my son's third tantrum of the day. This particular tantrum was brought on by my child's urgent desire for juice. Totally put off by my refusal to allow him to drink out of the 46 oz. juice bottle, he proceeded to lay on his stomach, cover his head, and scream into the floor.

Undeterred by his ritual, I poured juice into his cup and then offered it to him. I called his name...no response--he's still screaming into the floor. So, I called him again...and again...and again. I tapped his leg, his back, and then tried to turn him over and stand him up. I tried everything but he was too focused on expressing his discontent to even notice the juice I offered him.

It struck me that I've probably done the same thing to God. I know there have been times I've ignored His call; there were times I failed to see the blessing He'd placed right in front of me. You see, I was too busy complaining and being angry with Him for not giving me what I wanted/when I wanted it/how I wanted it. All the while, the blessing was right there for me--but in a vessel that I could use more effectively rather than the one I originally requested.

Instead of becoming angry, I hugged my son and whispered into His ear: "Calm down. I'm here. You're juice is right there." I extended grace and let my son know that everything was alright. Then, he finally saw the juice. It was right there all that time. But, sometimes it takes a "still small voice" to help us open our eyes to see.

Purple Rain (Prince, Morris Day, 1984)

So, I have NOTHING deep or introspective to post. I just have to say, I really like this cheesy movie. It came on VH1 last week. I had to DVR it. Prince is singing, The Beautiful Ones, right now. Love that song! Yeah, I know, Prince is a bit "different." But, he's a brilliant artist with an uncanny knack for turning the oddest phrases into art. Just think about it: Purple Rain, Raspberry Beret, When Doves Cry....I mean honestly, who else could turn those odd concepts into art?

PS. Did you know he wrote, I Would Die 4 U, about Jesus? Ah ha...even Prince recognizes Jesus' sacrifice. That makes Prince all the more cool in my book!

The Wonder of it All (Point of Grace, 1998)

It's amazing to me how God often reigns down blessings when I least expect them. I can find myself in prayer for months (sometimes years), but not see an answer. Often, the Lord will turn my heart to focus more on Him rather than the object of my prayer. He leads me to a deeper level of trust and dependence upon Him. I find contentment and suddenly, that thing for which I prayed just doesn't appear as important.

Frequently, the Lord will chose that exact time to send an answer or work a miracle in regards to my long forgotten prayer. I find myself in awe of His perfect timing. For certainly, He's proven that the answers or results I often seek are not for the time during which I seek them. However, He hears my heart and never forgets my prayers; He takes time to prepare my heart and spirit for His blessings. Then, He blesses. Oh, and when He does, it's so sweet. Oh taste and see that the Lord is good! (Psa. 34:8)

So, remember to hold fast to the confession of your hope without wavering for He who promised is faithful! (Heb. 10:23) Sometimes, the answer is no. But there are other times that He will just blow your mind with what He's doing on your behalf (rather you see the manifestation now or later)!

I Will Rise ( Chris Tomlin, 2008)

There's a peace I've come to know
Though my heart and flesh may fail
There's an anchor for my soul
I can say "It is well"

Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead

And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise, I will rise

There's a day that's drawing near
When this darkness breaks to light
And the shadows disappear
And my faith shall be my eyes

Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead

And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise, I will rise

And I hear the voice of many angels sing,
"Worthy is the Lamb"
And I hear the cry of every longing heart,
"Worthy is the Lamb"
And I hear the voice of many angels sing,
"Worthy is the Lamb"
And I hear the cry of every longing heart,
"Worthy is the Lamb"

And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise, I will rise

Point Break (Keanu Reeves, Patrick Swayze, 1991)

I can't exactly explain why, but I feel like I'm on the precipice of a spiritual breakthrough or miracle. Lately, it seems I'm very aware of the Lord working in my life and am seeking Him more each day. I'm reminded of a song by one of my favorite gospel artists, Israel Houghton. The chorus says: "I will search for you and I will find you. I will find you, with all my heart. I will lift my hands to you in worship, I will worship, with all my heart."

Thinking of those lyrics reminds me of Hebrews 11:6. It reads: "But without faith it is impossible to please God, for he who comes to God, must believe that He is, and He is a rewarder of those that dilligently seek Him." In the original biblical language, the word dilligently comes from the Hebrew word, ekzeteo. It implies worshipping God, searching him out, demanding His presence, investigating Him, and seeking Him out carefully. Oh Lord, that's right where I've found myself lately. But, more importantly, I know that's the place God has always been. He's never taken His eyes off me. He's always searched me out and demanded my presence.

So, I don't know what this breakthrough will look like or when it will occur. But, I know it will be something awesome because the Lord rewards those who seek Him. The Chris Tomlin song, God of This City, says it best.

Tortilla Soup (Hector Elizondo, 2001)

So, today we're having Enchilada casserole. Being the super mom I am, I decided to "stay on top of things" by preparing dinner this afternoon. I had all my ingredients nicely lined up--including an open can of Enchilada sauce that sat on the counter. I proceeded to do my cooking thing when my cute little curious toddler son walks up to me and smiled. I returned his smile. Then he turned to begin pacing the kitchen.

Suddenly, I hear a spill. I turn around to find Enchilada sauce all over my kitchen floor and my son. Forgetting he can reach anything on the counter--unless it's pushed to the back--I left that can just within his grasp. Of course, he had to grab it and try to take a drink.

I cleaned up my son then moved to the floor. As I cleaned, I couldn't prevent myself from murmuring and complaining the entire time. After all, this TOTALLY interrupted my plan to stay "on top of things." Now, I have to stop cooking and go to the store for more Enchilada sauce!

Suddenly, I began reflecting on my last grocery shopping trip. I remembered standing in that Mexican food aisle for about five minutes trying to talk myself out of purchasing two cans of Enchilada sauce. I even put one can back on the shelf and walked away. But, for some reason, I had to go back and get it. Do you understand how crazy I thought I was being at the time? I knew my recipe only called for one can and had no idea why I felt literally compelled to get two cans. But, as I kneeled there on my hands and knees with red sauce all around me, I couldn't help but thank God for His omniscience. I believe it was Him in that aisle nudging me to get that second can.

Maybe you think it's crazy that I see God at work in the midst of my enchilada sauce spill. But, I'm learning everyday that His hand is always upon me. His spirit lives within me. So, I thank Him for caring--even in the small things--and proving that He's always looking out for me.

Return of the Jedi (Mark Hamill, 1983)

Okay, so I'm not a Jedi. But, I had to think of some title w/ a Welcome Back message. Yes, Sassy Girl has done it again...

I disappeared from the blog world. But, never fear, life is good! God is great! I've been spending a lot of time in the Word and just reflecting on life. It's brought about a revival in me and a return to what's truly important in my life: Jesus! It's helped me realize that I want to be a Jedi Jesus Girl! Don't worry. I'm not going to change the name of this blog. But, I may have to add a subtitle.

So, what's a Jedi Jesus Girl?

She draws near to God.
She has accepted Christ as her Savior and has been brought near through His blood. Her soul thirsts and longs for the Lord as the deer pants for the water. She doesn't settle for the mediocre Christian life, but strives to excellently worship and serve the Lord with all her heart, all her mind, and all her soul! (1 Ch. 16:11; Psa 42:1; Deut. 4:29, 6:5; Eph. 2:13)

She is full of Faith!
Not only does she believe in God, she's crazy enough to believe Him! She knows that EVERY word from the mouth of God is truth. It is HIS unchanging unwavering truth--not man's relative truth--that sets us free. The Word of God is hidden deep in her heart to hold her from sin. (Psa 119:11; John 8:32, 17:17)


She's powerful!
This girl walks in the power and authority of Christ. She can say "Move" to a mountain and it will move. Like Jesus (because His spirit lies in her), she can cast out unclean spirits, speak healing & peace, and reclaim everything the enemy tries to take from her. (Deut. 11:24; Matt. 17:20; Luke 4:36)

She walks in the Spirit!
Fully equipped in the armor of God and operating in the fruit of the spirit, a Jedi Jesus girl lays down selfish lusts and desires. She no longer majors in the minor insignificant things of life. For, she has crucified her flesh and knows that the abundant life is not just about the tangible. It's about those intangible attributes and blessings promised in the Word of God. Daily, she prays to the Lord seeking more than just blessings & answers to her problems, she prays to grow closer to the Lord and hear His voice. She operates in a spirit of prayer that isn't limited to her kneeling down for a few moments a day. (Rom. 8:26; Gal. 5:22-26; Eph. 6:11-18)

She obeys the Lord!
Even if she doesn't understand where the Lord is taking her, a Jedi Jesus girl, follows the Lord. She obeys Him, recognizing that it's through obedience that she will grow and be blessed. More than that, she knows that her obedience is the ultimate sign of her love for the Lord and belief in who He is! She's moved beyond the lip service of having a theology that does not match her reality. (Deut. 12:28, 28:1-2; John 14:15, 15:10)

Let's go into that land...the land of the Jedi Jesus Girls!!

Glory (Morgan Freeman, Denzel Washington, 1989)

Pray for Morgan Freeman's recovery from his automobile accident. If you see that car, you'll know there's definitely a God! I'm so grateful that he's okay.

_____________________

Ironically enough, Sunday's sermon was about spiritual warfare. I say that it's ironic because I blogged about this throughout last week. So, I'm convinced the Lord was/is trying to show me something about this topic. I think it finally clicked!

1. Spiritual warfare is life--every single day--not just the conflict and trials that arise here and there.

2. The war is against principalities, powers, the rulers of the darkness of this age, and against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places, not people (Eph. 6:12).

3. Even in conflicts with people, I need to rely more on my spiritual armor than my natural defenses.

4. My spiritual armor isn't as effective when I view things through a carnal lense. So, I'm charged to evaluate the spiritual implications of every situation I encounter before I respond.

5. Life really is a battle. My enemy never takes a break. So, I really do have to be "always ready." That's my challenge--being ALWAYS READY.

In the end, it's this journey through spiritual warfare that will ultimately take me from glory to glory. I love how Romans 5:1-5, puts it all into perspective:

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.