simple moments.

So, my blog is about me.. not cool stuff, not whats going in the world. Just me, and my relationship with God. Sometimes, just me. Because I'm selfish.
This blog is actually going to be about God and I :)
John's sermon yesterday was really amazing. Thank God for that!
I have so many notes I don't know where to start.

1) God's presence needs to become real in our lives. Think about it. You wouldn't watch certain movies or do certain things if your grandmother was around would you? I know I wouldn't. What about God? Did you forget He is with you everywhere you go? This is something I need to become more aware of in my life. I think if we accepted this fact we wouldn't do half of what we do.. if we truly love Him.

2) Love and displaying the fruits of the spirit is not a luxury. It is not something that is easy. It takes hard work. Love, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness and self-control. Its not easy to love all the time. Especially when you are hurt or have been hurt. Its not easy to be patient, especially when you are angry. All these things take time and effort.. and practice.

3) If you are truly converted, it will be evident in your life. This isn't something you lose. You may have forgotten, and pushed aside... but you don't lose it. Your life changes dramatically. Not quickly, but over time. You have new reasons for living. You have new standards to live up to. You have a Father to please. You have faith. You have hope. You have God, Christ and the Holy Spirit. We tend to live in the moment, what feels good at the time. For some people, being a "Christian" feels good at the time.. but when the going gets tough, when there are some things in your life that need to be changed.. all the sudden, Christianity isn't your thing because it doesn't feel good. Look at #2 again.. its not easy. But, I can promise you it'll be worth it.

4) Beat God to the Burn (stolen from John Tate). This is something I struggle with A LOT in my life. What John means by this is, remove things that satan may use as a wedge. I don't tend to do this. A big wedge was removed from my life a month ago, I know I've mentioned it before. I'm truly grateful. My relationship with God has gotten a lot better. I've fallen in love with my Bible. I've learned to let go. I have a few more wedges in my life. I'll be working on them.

5) My life, as a Christian. Is a testimony to God and people. I know I fail at this. I know I do. One of my problems right now, is my mouth. I'll admit it, I cuss. Not good. Yuck. I apologize to those of you who hear it. I know it makes me look bad. I'll be working on it. You have permission to call me out. I know I need it.

6) Be cast in the shadows. Be invisible, but only if God is visible. I hope this is true for my life.. but it may not be. I do want this. More than anything. I know I have royally messed up my testimony to a lot of people. I do strive for people to see Christ through me. I'll be working on it.

Sorry for the length.

Thanks for Reading.