It is I!

Hello.
It is I.
Sarah.
If you don't remember me, .... you have good reason.

*wink*

Anyway, I am happy to be back on the internet, and I hope to catch up with all of you sometime soon.

About my last few weeks: I am taking a student orientation class, and I have to write a personal portfolio about my life. So PLEASE, if anyone has any ideas about what areas of my life I should write about, I shall be very interested in hearing about it.

I've also discovered if you jump around on a wet floor you are eventually going to slip and almost fall on your face. =]

I've been reading the book, On Every Side, by Karen Kingsbury. It's a fantastic story about how we are faced every day on every side by obstacles and challenges. Throughout the book, the characters face difficult situations, and disappointing events. Through it all though, they find out that God is there beside them the whole way, even when the going was tough.
One of the Bible verses mentioned in the book is one of my favorites:

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. --Romans 8:38-39

A Lesson From Minature Golf

I found out something very interesting yesterday. I stink at minature golf. Sadly, I found myself walking from one side of the hole to the other, hitting the ball. It was always too hard or too soft of a hit. At one hole I found myself at my 10th hit, and depressed. My dear dad cheered me on though, and encouraged me to finish, even though we were rushed for time. I did finish, after I wore my golf club out.

It made me think about my daily Christian walk. Sometimes it seems I'm trying everything I can to get that ball into the hole. To be that ultimate child of God. Then I realized we will never be perfect until Jesus comes back takes home. We can strive to be like Jesus. To share His love and salvation with others.

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. -- I John 1:7

I encourage you, if you feel like you are hitting the ball back and forth, not getting anywhere, pray about it and get encouragement from your loved ones. To know that someone is praying for you, or cheering you on can make a big difference in your life. Keep playing a good game, you can do it!

P.S. Playing minature golf also taught me that putters are not meant to be drivers. Also, if you see a someone hitting a ball in your direction, run.

Football and Decisions

Guess what? I'm finally back on! Sorry about that guys, I didn't think I would be working as much as I did last week. I'm so glad to be back on here, I miss you all so much!

This past Saturday my family went to the Relay For Life at my brother's college. It's a walk to support those survivors of cancer, it was a very special time. We kids also had a lot of fun taking advantage of the football goals. *evil grin* My 9 year old brother brought his little football, and was kicking it over the goal posts. Of course, I couldn't be outdone by him, so I did it too. Amazingly, it took me two tries to get it over. I was very excited, and shouted 'touchdown', which apparently is the wrong term. I was corrected by my dear little brother that I had just made a field goal, not a touchdown. DUHHHHHHH, I don't know why I said touchdown in the first place.

At youth group on Sunday, we did a Bible study about making decisions. Growing older, you realize how many more decisions come your way, and how sometimes you have to make those decisions yourself. It can be scary, but always remember that God is there. Some of the things you can do when faced with difficult decisions, is- pray, seek help from those you trust, stay in the Word, and always trust God, no matter what.

He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. --Psalm 18:17

04-16-07

I'm sure by now all of you have heard of the Virginia Tech tragedy. It's hard for any of us who have friends or family that have ever gone there. Thankfully everyone I knew who goes there are all safe. One of my co-workers knew one of the girls who was shot two times in the leg. Last we heard she was getting ready to go through surgery, so please keep praying for her and all the others who are injured.

Also remember the families of the victims. I can not begin to tell you how much they are hurting. I was at work with parents of VT students, and I felt the horror, and anxiety as they waited to hear from their sons and daughters while we listened to the radio. There's nothing that could erase the memory of not knowing if your loved one is still alive or not.

As Christians, what can we do when something like this happens? Naturally, we can't all go to Virginia Tech and be there for the students, though we all wish we could. Instead, we have the power to pray. God is using this situation in an awesome way. Even though we will all mourn for those lost, many people have come together to pray, and hopefully this will be a time when others will come to know Jesus. Let's pray that many will become followers of Christ when they see that this world will not last forever.

Remember this verse from James 1:2-4. Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

And this one from Jeremiah 29:11. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

God knows what is going to happen next. He will take care of us, and by God's grace, we will all be able to handle anything that comes our way. We know that whatever happens will turn around for good, and be used to further God's kingdom.

So for VT families and wounded: We are praying for you, and thinking about you. Embrace God's love, and keep close to our Heavenly Father as we all heal from this tragedy.

Random

This is one of those random, fun posts. =]

I'm babysitting this afternoon. That's kind of exciting... since I haven't babysat in awhile.

I'm getting really, really tired of school, but I'm excited that the end is in sight.

Does anyone know why it's really cold outside?

Does everyone get a summer break from school?

Okay... I'm kind of out of things to say. Remember, God made you special, and He loves you very much, BYE!

Happy Easter!

Happy Easter everyone! (one day early ) Don't get caught up in all the celebrations that you forget what it's really about. If you've ever seen The Passion, it puts you right back there when Jesus was alive. You can feel the pain, and anguish of those around Jesus, as they watched Him die. Knowing He was doing it all for you... it crushes your heart by the demonstration of an incredible love.

Don't keep Jesus in the grave!!! He is RISEN! Here is a song that I really like by Newsong. If you've never heard it before, listen to it.

ARISE, MY LOVE

Not a word was heard at the tomb that day.
Just shuffling of soldiers feet as they guarded the grave.
One day, two days, three days had past.
Could it be that Jesus breathed His last?

Could it be that His Father had forsaken him?
Turned his back on his son dispising our sin.
All hell seemed to whisper'Just forget Him, He's dead.'
Then the Father looked down to his son and he said..

Arise, My love.Arise, My love.
The grave no longer has a hold on you
No more death's sting
No more suffering
Arise...Arise...my love.

The Earth trembled and the tomb began to shake,
and like lightening from Heaven the stone was rolled away.
And as dead man the guards they all stood there in fright
As the power of love displayed its might
Then suddenly a melody filled the air
Riding wings of wind, it was everywhere
The words all creation had been longing to hear
The sweet sound of victory, so loud and clear.

Arise, my love. Arise, my love.
The grave no longer has a hold on you.
No more death's sting no more suffering
Arise...arise....

Sin, where are your shackles?
Death, where is your sting?
Hell; has been defeated.
The grave could not hold the king.

Arise, My love.Arise, My love.
The grave no longer has a hold on you
No more death's sting
No more suffering
Arise....Arise....Arise

Sick

Quick run down on the past few days:

I practically slept for two whole days. I practically didn't eat for two whole days. (WARNING: The following sentence may not be appropriate for younger audience, viewer discretion advised:) I puked my guts out. I lost 10+ pounds. The End.

I've had a stomach virus unfortunately. SO sorry about my prolonged absence from cyberspace. I feel so behind in everything. I hope I can catch up with you all soon, I miss you! Lol, I'm still catching up with some stuff here at home, so sorry if it takes me awhile.

After lying down for two days, it's been hard walking around and stuff, and my stomach feels like a bottomless pit. I am kind of happy to find out I can now fit into my size 6 misses jeans again, LOL!

While I am impatiently waiting for myself to recover, I hope to be able to get back on here and talk with you guys again. Love yas!

--Your puny, weak little friend.

Why?

In youth group we have been studying the commonly asked question, 'why'? More specifically, “why is this happening to me?” Or, “why do bad things happen to good people?” We all go through times in our lives when we ask 'why' questions.

Remember Job from the Bible? He was the victim of Satan's hand as he did everything possible to tear Job down, and crush him. Job had incredible faith however, and did not curse God, even when the he was infested with sickness and his children were killed. I don't know about you, but that brings on a BIG “why?”. The question shouldn't be 'why' here though. The question is, would we be able to still trust God if hard times come? Hopefully the answer is yes. Aren't you glad God promised He would never leave us nor forsake us?

In John 16:33 it says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." That is so comforting, especially in this day and age. It seems everywhere you turn, there is trouble, but we as Christians can take heart! Be brave! God is here with us always. You can make it through the dark night, into the bright and shining morning.

I hope everyone had a great weekend! I know Mondays can be hard, but carry John 16:33 with you into the week, and trust God to help you in anything and everything you struggle with.

Amazing Grace

Yesterday our church youth group went to see Amazing Grace. It was an awesome movie, and I found it to be educational and touching. I must admit, I don't know much about William Wilburforce... so I don't know how truly accurate the movie was, but it was certainly an eye opener. Not many people appreciate their freedom as much as they ought to. I am a guilty party for this as well, and now I am thankful for God's grace and mercy on us. I would recommend this movie to you and your families. It's a great discussion prompter.

That movie brought the words of Amazing Grace alive for me. Now I don't think I'll ever listen to that song again, without remembering what it really means. The real story. I like the part in the movie, as John Newton remembers his song, and the line, “was blind, but now I see.” It's amazing how such a simple movie can open your eyes to grueling, yet courageous journeys of the millions of slaves.

We stopped at Cici's on the way home to get something to eat. They have WEIRD varieties of pizza, that's for sure. I think I had some kind of BBQ one... and a taco one, and there was some kind of macaroni pizza too. Anyway, while I was pouring over my pizza... (literally... I was almost convinced I had entered heaven =] ) the others went to spend all their loose change on arcades. Every two minutes I would hear screams of disappointments as they lost. Ha! Good times, good times. I hope you all had an enjoyable weekend!

God bless, and I leave you with this verse:

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. --Ephesians 1:3

Keeping It Real

Lately I've been wondering how we can have a relationship with God, and keep it at its fullest. When you first become a Christian, you are filled with a new hope. You have a great passion to change your life. However, as you continue in your walk, sometimes its hard to keep that beginning perspective. The newness wears off, and you're left with a daily grind. Day after day, just living your life in a routine, until you loose the passion of being a person on fire for God. I want keep it real.

In Lamentations 3:22-23, it says, "Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."

God's love and mercy never fails. Praise God for His daily renewal of hope in our hearts. I find myself caught up in my schedule, wondering if it will ever end. I know that in Christ, I am set free from being bound by the world. He gives us a wonderful hope of things to come.

So look foward to tomorrow, and the next day. We could use those days to live for our Lord Jesus, and live with His unfailing love and faithfulness constantly covering us. Keep it real!

Hymns

A hymn is defined as "A song of praise or thanksgiving to God or a deity." Yesterday in church, as I was singing a hymn with the choir, I realized how powerful hymns are. A lot of modern churches have moved away from traditional hymns, and focused more on praise and worship. That's fine, but they sometimes don't realize how hymns can be songs of praise and worship. Here are the simple, but amazing words of Great Is Thy Faithfulness.

Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father; There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not; As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be.

Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided; Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

Summer and winter and springtime and harvest, sun, moon and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness; To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth; Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

God does supply all our needs, no matter what happens. God has everlasting faithfulness, that surpasses all understanding. Next time you hear a hymn, don't just tune it out. Let it speak to you, as words about our wonderful, loving Father.

Dear Dad

Last night our church had a father/daughter banquet. It was lovely, and we had a great time! I know it's not Father's Day yet, but I'd like to say a few words about fathers. They have a tremendous job, raising girls... I can imagine it must be hard... especially if they never had sisters, like my dad. (Beware, I'm biased, my dad is the best in the world) =]

Don't be afraid to spend time with your dad. Laugh with him, cry with him, tell him how you're feeling. A relationship with your dad is precious, don't let it waste away. We had a speaker at the banquet, and he expressed how if he could raise his girls again, (they're all older now) he would spend more time with them. While you're still young, don't let the days pass without letting your dad know how much you love him. You never know, spending time with your dad may create the best times in your life!

Here is a poem I found by Ginger C. Smith:

I'm just sitting here thinking about what you mean to me,
Remembering all the things you've done for me,
You've been there for me from the start,
Knowing what to say to keep me from falling apart,
Taking everything that comes your way good or bad,
Even though you're not my father you'll always be my dad,
I can't count high enough for every time you've went out of your way,
Knowing you're there keeps me going everyday,
When I need encouragement, you're the first to give it,
When I have a problem, you always have the best advise to fix it,
I could sit here and say Thank-you from now till I die but it wouldn't be enough,
I can only wish if I went through what you did I could be so tough,
I'll always love you unconditionally,
From now till an eternity.

The Good Way

I am very excited, for I am finally getting out of the house today. We had a major ice storm, and all the events that I would have been part of, were cancelled. It may not sound all that impressive, but we live back in the woods (I'm very thankful for such a great place to live, don't get me wrong), and I have been stuck in this house for almost 6 days straight. For me, that's an eternity not seeing my friends, and just... people. =] I love my people... hehe!

When you are faced with a quiet world of ice and snow, however, something amazing happens. I looked up into the bright sky, with the ice shining from the trees, and I realized I wasn't as lonely as I thought. Sure I haven't talked to a person outside my family for 5 days, but that kind of melts away as I saw the brilliance of God's creation. It reminds me of how the simple love of the Father could create such a magnificent masterpiece. We humans have tried to be master minds and create things... but nothing compares to God's unfailing talent. It reminds me of Psalm 19:1, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands."

There is part of a song by Avalon, (The Good Way) that wraps up my point:

Traffic noise, expensive toys
A love that never lasts
Broken homes and self-made thrones
We're livin' life too fast
That we forget the things that His love brings
Beyond what this world is
I can hear it still today
What the preacher used to say
This is how you live
You've got to..


Believe in your heart
Right down to your soul
And speak the true things
And know that you know
'Cause this might be the day
So live like it is
Find the good way
And walk in it
Walk on

Modesty

Check this out:

http://www.therebelution.com/modestysurvey/

I think it's great that fellow teens still care about modesty. We should take a stand for what we believe. Since our bodies are temples of the Lord, we need to keep them holy, and pure. Till that one special person comes along, we need to guard our thoughts and actions, as we prepare ourselves for our true love.

God, give us the grace, and mercy each and every dayto live like you. As we dress every morning, keep it in our hearts and minds how we could dress to glorify YOU, not ourselves.

Great Friends

So sorry about that last post. It seems as if I had activated some option that had me approve comments before posting them. =] Oh well, we're back on track now... I hope.

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! Here are some shout-outs.

Hannah:
Thank you SO much for all your encouraging comments. You are an awesome friend. I can't believe I was on SL without knowing you there for awhile. I enjoyed the 'purple' forums, and I am trying to get back on there sometimes when time permits. *big hug* You're always there for me, thanks for being such an awesome friend. I hope you get to come to Virginia again soon, and next time come closer... so we can meet! *wink*

John:
You are one awesome person John. You have an amazing story, and I truly am thankful for such a friend as you. I am honored to know you, and I look back with much happiness at the MILLIONS of pms we have sent back and forth. *hug* Thanks for putting up with me and giving Grace so many hugs for me... and sending her messages. =] You never cease to amaze me with your sweetness, and consideration. You are absolutely God's follower.

Love you both, thanks for reading my silly posts, and being a friend to this girl from VA. God bless you! I pray for you both, and I hope you continue being the Godly teens you are.

Love

It's almost Valentine's Day, and everyone is giddy with excitement. =] Here is a writing assignment I did a few months ago, I thought it was appropriate for this time of year.



“I love you.” This is a phrase commonly used, especially during Valentines Day. However, people take delight in saying it year around. Often times it looses its meaning as it is used to describe feelings toward objects as well as people. Love is a word which is nowadays abused as a common word. Looking deeper at the word love, it is evident that there is more to this word than meets the eye. A clearer understanding of love can be found by examining its definition, the five love languages, and some excellent examples of true love.

In today's society, love is defined in so many different ways, it quickly looses its true meaning. In the dictionary love is defined as “a profoundly tender, passionate affection for another person.” Obviously the original meaning was meant towards a person, not an object. It is the immense liking of another person that grows into the word “love”. In the Bible, love is defined in this way in I John 4:10: “This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” God has a passionate love for us, so much that He let His only Son die for us. The definition of love began with God himself, as He created the world, and sent His Son.

Another way to examine love is presented by a Christian writer, Gary Chapman, and he explains that there are five main ways of expressing love. He calls them the five love languages. The first is words of affirmation, meaning the act of giving a compliment, or encouragement. The second is quality time, spending time with those you love, and showing them how much you care. The third is giving gifts, expressing your appreciation towards a person. The fourth is acts of service, going out of your way to provide aid to a person. The fifth language is physical touch, which is giving hugs or a shoulder to lean on. The five love languages presents a clear look of what love means.

Finally, there are many examples of love throughout history that show true love. The best example of love is when Jesus died for us. By doing this, He showed what true love is, laying down your life for someone else. Another example is much more recent, but still relevant. In 1979, Chuck Colson started a ministry called Prison Fellowship, because he felt a love for inmates and their families. History reveals a picture of how people from long ago defined love, and how they demonstrated this love.

Now that love has been defined, sorted into five love languages, and expressed through history, it is easier to see what love really is. The dictionary tell us how love is a strong feeling of affection towards someone. By exploring the five love languages, it can be seen how to express this love. Then, searching through history, it can be found how people all around the word value love. Everyone wants to be loved, and have a true understanding of what love really is.

Heroes

^^ My heroes
It has been a very busy week, and I am enjoying looking forward to a nice, calm weekend. I hope... =]
Remember, God made you special, and He loves you VERY much!
Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. --I Chronicles 16:34

Courage

Update on teen class at church:

David and Goliath. A popular story about courage, faith, and willing to do God's will. However, there is more to the story, as we all know by now. When David saw how the Israelites were terrified of the Philistine's giant, he was shocked, and probably angry. His words, "What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine and removes this disgrace from Israel? Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?" This young man, who was a shepheard, and only a little brother... saying things of such wisdom and maturity. The Israelites could not remember that they had a champion on their side even greater and stronger than the Philistine giant. David remembered however, and he was able to bring the Israelites to victory because of his obedience to God's commands. He stood tall in the face of adversity, and didn't back down, even when the situation looked hopeless.

I have seen so many of you stand up for what you believe. I've seen you battle your own giants. I've see you conquer. Thanks for being that encouragment for me.

Memories

I have been reading Like Gold Refined, a book by Janette Oke. The characters were talking about memories and Clark Davis says, “Treasure 'em. The days when yer young and spry- an' hardworkin'... Ya don't really have time to treasure 'em when yer rushin' about. But at least set 'em down as a memories so that ya can pull 'em out an' treasure 'em later.”

Sometimes I feel like I'm always rushing, never taking time to really stop and look at my life. What do I want to remember most years from now? Sometimes at the rate I'm going, I think won't remember anything, and it will all be a blur. I don't want that to happen. It's hard to make time to spend time with the people you love, to create memories with them. But it is well worth it (and you can probably get an amen for that from your grandparents. =]) It comes down to the great commission. “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." --Matthew 28:19-20

What are we doing with our time here on earth? How can I spend it to make the most of every opportunity to spread God's love with others?

When I look back to when I was younger, I remember mostly, all the fun stuff that I did with my family. How they spent so much time teaching me how to love, care, and respect others. They are still teaching me, as well as all my fantastic friends from SL and elsewhere. Sometimes I can be stubborn and hard to get along with. (ask my family... =D) Somehow, they all stick by my though, and for that, I am VERY grateful.

As I continue making memories, God, please remind me to slow down, and enjoy even the smallest things you placed here on earth. Thank you for everyone who has stood by me, even through the storms.

A Lesson From David

In my teen class at church we just started a Bible study on David. Right now we're at the very beginning, when Saul disobeys God and Samuel has to search for someone to anoint as the new king. The Bible describes David as handsome , brave, and it says that the Lord was with Him. David's gentle spirit, his courage, and understanding of God's commands stands out to me. It makes you want to be like him.

We also read a very encouraging verse in I Samuel 16, when Samuel is searching for a king. "The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." In this day and age it's hard to keep from only looking at the outward appearance. Thankfully, God never changes, and will continue to look at our hearts, no matter what we look like on the outside.

What am I here for?

What am I here for?

That is a question a lot of us ask. Softly and tenderly Jesus reminds me daily of the great commission, and how we as Christians are sent out to spread the good news of eternal life.

Remember this verse:
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. --Jeremiah 29:11

Psalm 121

Where is God when we need Him? He's waiting right here, with us, to take us by the hand.

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.
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.
The LORD watches over you, the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
The LORD will keep you from all harm, he will watch over your life;
the LORD will watch over your coming and going, both now and forevermore.
--Psalm 121