life beyond the well…


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A Higher Definition

In all seriousness, Preacherman is one of the smartest, most gifted people that I’ve ever met. Sometimes we have conversations and I find myself in awe of how his mind works- his ability to make connections and to explain complex things in such a simple way that it’s almost impossible to not understand it.  He does this incredibly well all the time, but it is amazing to watch him do this with the word of God as a preacher and teacher.

In preparation for our next season, Preacherman will preach messages to me- actual messages that he would preach to a church full of people. They are awesome.  And I’m not just saying this as a proud wife.  I’m saying this as a believer who leaves the message having experienced God in a new way, and having learned something that I can apply to my life, making me a better person.

A couple of weeks ago, Preacherman preached this message entitled “A Higher Definition”. It was such a powerful message, based out of 1 John 3:1-3 and 1 Peter 2:9-12.  Here are some of my key takeaways from this message:

  • The world and its systems do not own me.  I belong to God.
  • I am not to be defined by what others say I am: I am CHOSEN, I am HOLY, I am ROYAL, I am a PRIESTHOOD!
  • We are set up to be victorious.
  • Real victory is achieved with real opposition, not just going with the flow of the world.
  • I cannot allow myself to be defined by anything other than Christ.  That’s too low of a definition.
  • Because I am a child of God, I have promise, power, and purpose.
  • If I fail to live a life like Christ, I am allowing others to die in darkness.

This was SUCH a good word, and I hope those snippets above bless you as the message blessed me.  Interested in hearing the message? Let me know and I’ll figure out a way to get it to you!

Be encouraged! Peace and blessings!


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Ten.

“I’m glad I can look at my past and see that troubles don’t last; that when my soul was broken, God placed it in a cast…” – Me

On Saturday, December 6, 2003; in Ehringhaus Residence Hall on the campus of UNC-Chapel Hill, I gave my life to Christ.

I came to that point after years of growing up and serving in church, but never having a full knowledge or understanding of the gospel.  It wasn’t until I came to college that I met people who not only went to church, but had a relationship with Christ.  Slowly, the pieces came together, and on that wonderful Saturday, through tears, I asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior.

I wish that I could say that this journey has been easy.  It hasn’t.  As with any journey, or any relationship, it’s a daily commitment.  There were days I didn’t want to make it- I didn’t feel like it.  There were days where my heart felt weary and tired.  There were days were disappointments far outnumbered the delights.  There were days where my pursuit of God and the purpose that He has for my life were lackluster.  But through it all, I pressed my way, and I continued to learn and grow in the knowledge of God and in my relationship with Him.

One thing I know for sure- God has been so CRAZY faithful.  When I think of the last 10 years, and where He brought from, as well as what He brought me through I am so humbled because I know I’m not worthy or deserving.  It’s so difficult to put in words- but my heart is so overwhelmed by His love, His grace, and His mercy.

Ten years ago, I accepted the invitation to drink from a well that wouldn’t run dry, and my life hasn’t been the same since.

My cup overflows.

Be encouraged!  Peace and Blessings!

PS: Because I think it’s important to acknowledge where I’ve come from- check out my testimony.