Several times I have been thinking about something and wish I could see or think in three dimensions. I want another angle on something or I need another perspective. Many times God is that third dimension for me. Where I can go beyond myself and my limited thinking.
Also, I think it is important to surround ourselves with sound teaching. Listening or reading what other's have to say is not a substitute for our own relationship with God, but it can provide another view.
God reveals himself in so many wonderful ways and I love to read the excitement others have when sharing their experiences. I have listed some resources on my blog and I hope you will enjoy them. Batterson, Jentezen and Moore are a great place to start. Do you have any other resources you would like to share.
Also, I have been searching for new, deeper worship songs that can really minister to my family. We all love to sing and there is nothing like a good song to touch the heart. Here is one of my recent favorites. I love to preview songs on You Tube since it has become quite expensive to buy so many songs. Enjoy this simple song that is so profound.
We all go through tough times. At times I have heard people say, "Oh my problems are small compared to this or that." God cares about each one of them.
I love reading God's word. I have learned that when you read it in the good times, you are more prepared for the harder times. So many people are short on answers but the word of God is the answer.
I love seeing how God works through other people's lives that are truly seeking God.
The three devotionals that I love to read are Mark Batterson at www.evotional.com, Beth Moore at livingproofministries.blogspot.com, and Jentzen Franklin. They all have very different styles of blogging but I know they all love the Lord and value biblical truth.
For many years I was jealous of other people and what God was doing in their lives, but I came to the realization that God's plan for me is straight from Him and is for no other. I have learned to not covet other's dreams above God's dreams for me.
I pray you enjoy these resources for yourself. I encourage you to explore how God is working and moving and that you seek God above all. Read Matthew 6 and Ephesians 3 for a great reminder of who God is and just how much He loves us.
Love, Carol
I think it is very important to have a solid group of resources to count on in your spiritual walk. These resources should be spiritually sound but stretch us in many different directions. I like to read blogs, books and listen to music of many different faiths. I don't want to be guilty of "group think" on issues on one hand, but on the other hand, everything must line up with the word of God.
In the coming days I will be sharing some highlights of these resources and how you can use them in your life. I know they have been a huge blessing in mine.
On that note, here are some of my regular favorites:
Blogs:
Mark Batterson (pastor,author) - National Community Church: www.evotional.com
Jentzen Franklin (pastor, author) - Free Chapel: http://www.jentezenfranklin.org/blog/
Beth Moore (speaker, author, bible study writer) - Living Proof - http://livingproofministries.blogspot.com
Family Resources:
Focus on the Famiily: www.focusonthefamily.com
Family Life Ministry - www.familylife.com
Music:
Jason Upton - www.jasonupton.com
Hillsong Music - www.hillsong.com
Casting Crowns - www.castingcrowns.com
Worship Music - www.worshipmusic.com
Favorite Ministries:
Samaratains Purse - www.samaratainspurse.com
Life Today - www.lifetoday.org