Out of my mind?

If we are "out of our mind," as some say, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you.
~ 2 Corinthians 5:13

I came across this bible verse last week, and it really made me think. The first time I read it, I was like 'What does that mean?' And then I read it again and thought about it more ...... and still had the same question. So I talked about it with my family, we all thought, and we kinda came up with this idea of what the verse might mean:

If you are someone who tries to fit in, be normal, and cool, it's for your own personal reasons. But when you life a life for God, you should want to stand out, be different and set apart from everyone else. So that when people say you are 'out of your mind,' it's because you love God so much and want to just show it.

Another blogger who had a blog that I read a lot recently started a new blog to represent the change in her life and the difference between how she used to be when she first started on blogger. Her new blog is called Fanatical because she said "Because life's too short to be anything but a fanatic. A fanatic for Christ." I love how she put it. It's so true! I totally agree. And so that's what I think that verse means. That we need to be different, a little fanatical, a little out of our mind for Jesus. Because nothing is normal these days.

This is just my interpretation of what it means, please comment with your thoughts and views on this verse! I'd love to hear them! :)

f.r.o.g.

via

No, not that kind of frog. I mean the acronym. It stands for Fully Rely On God.

Definition of rely: Depend on with full trust or confidence.

This is something I need to work on. Yeah, I know God has a plan for me, and that He's always in control, even when it seems like things aren't right. But there's a difference between knowing and trusting. I need to have more faith in God. Believe in Him with all my heart. Hey, you need to fully trust someone before you give them your life! And I have, I've surrendered to God. But I find that I trust through the good times, then when the boat starts to get a little shaky, so does my trust in Him. And I don't want that. I want me and Him to have a strong relationship.

"And I'll trust You God with where I am

And believe that You will have Your way"
~ Britt Nicole lyrics

I want to start trusting, not just knowing. I want to fully rely on God, not just semi rely on Him, that's not good enough. I want to believe and have faith instead of worry and have doubts. Because I know that once I trust in God, once I fully rely on Him, that He will use me in ways I could never imagine.

"Trust the Lord with all your heart,
and don't depend on your own understanding."
~Proverbs 3:5

Courageous

Courage: a strength that allows you to face danger, difficulty, or pain without showing fear.

I saw the movie Courageous with a friend the other day. It's a Christian movie. I loved it. I cried and laughed and just had a great time. In the movie, one of the policemen was talking with his friends and said he needs to step up and become a better father for his family. And one of his friends told him something along the lines of 'you're already a good enough father.' The policeman replied, that's the thing, I don't want to be 'just good enough.'

That part really hit home for me. I think too many Christians today are being 'just good enough.' They meet the standards, and don't aim for higher. They do what they have to and leave it at that. But that's not what God wants from us, He wants us to be the best and give it our all. God didn't give us just enough to get by, but gave us all He had, everything.

So starting today I'm going to try to live different. Not just be 'good enough' but live life to the full extent. Let God take over, and live for Him. Ask God to give me His strength. Live a courageous life. ♥

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
~ Joshua 1:9

Don't Stop Believing

We all get those days. When everything seems to be going wrong. When you feel like hiding under your covers and going back to bed. When you want to let out a big scream, or cry, into your pillow. Sometimes those days stretch out, turn into weeks, and feel like they will never end. Then sometimes you may feel like life has gobbled you up, spun you around, and spat you back out. If you're in this situation, have faith. Remember that God is always by your side, He has never left you. Don't stop believing.

".... In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

~John 16:33

'I don't want to gain the whole world, and lose my soul'

via weheartit

Buying name brands just to fit it, even though it's not your style. Wearing lots of make-up to impress a guy, even though you hate the stuff. Reading magazines so you can be 'in the know,' even though you'd rather be reading actual books. When changes like these take over your life, who are you trying to please?

The world is trying to win us over. It has taken the word beautiful, and has turned it into perfect, leaving so many girls striving for the impossible, wanting to achieve something that isn't real. We think to ourselves 'that's not me, I'd never give in like that.' But with the world's message plastered everywhere you go, it can be hard to stay true to the real you. The world is knocking on your door everyday, what if tomorrow you answer it?

Well, there's one thing that helps me get through life's sticky spots. God. He is my anchor, the thing that I can hold onto when the seas get rough and wild. He sent His son to die on the cross, so I don't have to be perfect. All I need to be is me. That's who God made me to be!

So when you need help, pray and ask for God to give you strength, and that's what you can hold onto next time the world comes knocking at your door.

also, check out this video, it came to mind while writing this post.

Power in the Simple Things

I believe there is power in the small things. The simple things. The things we don't think about enough. For example, books. Merely a number of pages stuck together. But one book can hold a whole life story, filled with emotion and feelings, thoughts, events, and memories. Isn't that awesome?
And prayer. Requests, thanks and praises from the lips of Christians, and the hearts of believers. Prayer can work wonders, especially when it comes from more than one. The power of prayer can heal, protect, provide, save, and give.

And kindness. Simply going out of your way for someone can make their day. Spread some happiness, laughter, and smiles! All these things are simple, yet powerful in so many ways!

all photos from weheartit

Crime&Love

*Don't forget to enter my giveaway! Only 10 days left*

The law is meant to protect, to keep order and peace ... though rules can broken. Theft. Vandalism. Murder. Anybody can be a criminal, and anybody can be a victim. Crimes can be anywhere, at any time, at any place. Some are planned, some are random. Crimes are committed all around the world, but why? What is the motive behind these wrongful acts? What is the purpose, the meaning, the reason?

Why is world peace an impossible hope? Why must there be war, and violence among this planet? Why can't everyone just get along? There's only one answer. Satan. As long as sin roams this earth, crimes will always exist. Sometimes there's no reason behind these crimes other than the darkness of the devil. So then what can be done about this problem? What can we do?

We can hold onto our faith, stay strong in the Lord, and pray for these people. Obviously criminals would be one of the last to come to mind when praying, but they're the ones who need it the most. They're on the opposite side, the wrong path, they're lost.

God can change even the darkest, coldest hearts. He can reach out and touch even the most evil, hated human beings. No matter how low you've fallen or how many sins you have on your slate, He can take all the shame away. He sees us for who we are, He doesn't judge us, but gives us everlasting love, even to criminals.

Who will love me for me?

Take The Wheel

I forget sometimes. I forget what He did for me, and what it really means. That the life I'm living isn't mine. That I'm not in control. At times, these things slip my memory. I am a person who tends to over-think. Or make things a little more difficult than they have to be. But then I step back, and really look at what I'm doing. I'm trying to figure everything out, when really, it's not my job. God knows what He's doing. And I need to trust Him, and leave it in His hands.

But He did give us the opportunity to make our own choices. He gave us the freedom to do what we want. And that's good. Because then we can learn from our mistakes. We learn, and grow in our faith. I'm still learning to listen to God. I heard once that praying is good, but it should be a two-way conversation. I do talk to God, but I want to work on hearing Him. As a Christian, I'm still growing. And one thing I keep on having to learn is that we're not in control. Take the wheel, Lord, I put my trust in You ...

A Poem

via weheartit

You sparkle even brighter than the sun,
I just know deep down that you are the one.

I feel that we belong together,
Our relationship will last forever.

You loved me ever since the beginging.
Now you have got me spinning, with joy.

You are protecting and forgiving,
You make this life I've got worth living.

I know I can tell you anything,
Yet you already know everything.

You're the Light of the world, and I'm happy to see.
And I am so glad that God, you love me, for me.

Beauty

"You are altogether beautiful, my darling; there is no flaw in you."

~Song of Songs 4:7

What is beauty? And what does it look like? Everyone has their own opinion, and think they know what it means. But when it comes down to it, there's only one opinion that really matters. Yours. To me, the first step to being beautiful is being happy with who you are! You've got to feel good with the skin your in! A smiling person is way prettier than someone who has a big frown spread across their face. My mom always told me that I had to like me before I could like anyone else. And she is so right!

After being happy, the rest kinda comes naturally. When you feel good, you show it! Your heart shines, and your inner beauty breaks free! I think everyone is beautiful, but for some people, it takes time for them to realize their true beauty. It's a journey for all of us. We all have those moments when we look in the mirror and start pointing out our flaws. Even worse, some point out other's flaws. But if we can just find happiness in life, we can find the beauty hidden beneath every heart.

No matter where I am on my journey, I know God is with me. He is the one who sees beauty in all! And without Him, I wouldn't be able to be completely happy in life. I wouldn't be able to live a beautiful life.

Mean

Stand up, and be proud.
Don't let anybody put you down.

They may seem big, they may be mean,
But in the end that's all they're gonna be.

Don't let them tear you apart,
Don't take their lies to heart.

You know what they say isn't true,
Be strong and show them the real you.

You're so much better than all of them,
They're the ones with the problem.

Let your inner beauty shine,
Things will get better over time.

Words can hurt more than sticks and stones,
A heart can break just the same as bones.

Next time you're hit or teased.
Remember Him, and just believe.

The opposite of faith is fear,
Stick with God, he's always near.

This poem was inspired by the song Mean-Taylor Swift

Chirtsmas Poem

Christmas is 'round the corner,

Christmas is almost here,

Christmas is very close,

Christmas is oh, so near.

Christmas brings many smiles,

Christmas brings lots of lights,

Christmas brings people together,

Christmas brings snowy nights.

Christmas began with an answer,

Christmas began with a sacrifice,

Christmas began with Jesus,

Christmas began with Christ.

Each Day

↓ Like the new watermark? ↓


Each day is like a chance, a chance to make a difference.

Each day is like a gift, a gift that should be cherished.

Each day is like a leaf, a leaf among many others.

Each day is like a baby, a baby with a fresh, new start.

Each day is like a wave, a wave that makes up the sea.

Each day is like a shoe, a shoe that doesn't fit all.

Each day is like a swing, a swing that goes up and down.

Each day is His, His day is supposed to be lived.

"I Love You!"

Love is very powerful and meaningful. When you love someone, you care for them and want what's best for them. You encourage them, and want them to be successful. If they were in trouble, you would help them in a heartbeat. A loved one is a person who can brighten up your day just by smiling and giving you a thoughtful hug. This extraordinary person, is someone you feel you couldn't live without.

Love isn't just a word or a feeling. It is something bigger and more complex. We know what it is, but just can't explain using words. It is much more than just a ring, or a kiss, or a heart-shaped card. It comes from your heart.

I love many people. My family, my friends, and most importantly God. And I know He loves me back. He loves everyone. Whether you're poor, rich, young, old, tall, short, happy, sad...whoever you are...He loves you a whole lot! Isn't that awesome?

So tonight, before you go to bed, say a prayer, and remember everything He has done, and don't forget to say ''I love you!''

His Work of Art

The colours of the leaves in the fall are just beautiful. I look around at the gorgeous scenery and am amazed by God's wonderful work of art. He made all of this!

I like art. I like to make things, and be creative. I enjoy making cards, and designing clothes, writing poems, and using my imagination to create. God likes to do this too! The world we live in, every person on this planet, every leaf, every tree . . . it all contributes to a bigger picture, His masterpiece!

God's creations inspires me! I love His artwork, and so do many others! A numerous amount of people have painted, drawn, and sketched pictures of trees, flowers, mountains . . . all parts of His work of art! God inspires many people!

God's art makes people think. Everyone interprets His work in many different ways. When I see a baby bird I think about journeys, and my life ahead of me. Seeing beautiful flowers helps me to not forget to slow down to admire things more closely, and not rush through life. When I spot a colourful leaf changing, it reminds me of the beauty of His Work of Art.

What does His Work of Art make you think?

(All photos taken by me!)

Dreams

'Take my dreams
Come and give them wings '

~Britt Nicole

Many have dreams, wishes, and hopes for their life. Some dreams may be unrealistic or deep ambitions, but all dreams can come true, big or small. The sky is your limit, so dream big! You just need to have a little determination, perseverance, and a whole lot of faith!

God will help us reach our goals. He wants us to fulfill our dreams. With Him, nothing is impossible. But do our dreams match up with His plans for our lives?Are they the things He wants us to do? God has a special purpose for us, and wants us to follow Him. So take your dreams, and give them to God! Give them to Him, and let Him give them wings!

Set the World on Fire

I'm Not Alone

In this world,

I'm living in.
God is with me,

Through thick and thin.
He'll never leave,
Or run away,
He is here,
Here to stay.
I will not fear,
I will not hide,
He'll stand by me,
By my side.
When I feel ,

I'm on my own,

I'll always remember,

I'm not alone.

Hanging On

Things change,
When we don't want them to,
Though God has a plan,
For me and you,
He hears our prayers,
He hears our plea,
He knows what's best,
For you, and me!
He is my Savior,
He is my friend,
He'll be with me,
Until the end,
And even after,
When my life is done,
He'll stay by me,
And we'll have some fun!
I trust in Him,
He is my base,
With Him in my life,
I know I'm safe.
Things will be okay,
It will all work out,
God is it control,
And I have no doubt.
Through my life,
I will stand strong,
I will keep him close, I'm
Hanging On.



Hope you like this video. This song, helps me to stay strong, and to keep hanging on!

Holy Holes

Holes can be in the heart from a break-up, in the soul from a loss, in the mind from a failure.

We need to fill them to continue on with our journey. Fill them with love, God's love.

Though not all of these holes are completely bad. God also gives us holes to make us stronger. To teach us life lessons. In the big picture, they have purpose and meaning.

We don't always understand their purpose in our life. We just see the problems that God allows to take place. Then we question these holes, these problems. Sometimes we get mad at God, but really, God is trying to help us grow. Eventually we realize that all these obstacles are helping holes . . . holy holes.

What Money Can't Buy

Money is used for lots of things,
Food, clothes, puzzles and dolls,
They are all items that can be found,
In many shopping malls.

But compassion, trust and love,
Have no cost, fine, or fee.
They aren’t your average product,
They are more important you see.

No one can put them in your hand,
No one can take them away,
They can never be lost,
You’ll have them day after day.

They can’t be purchased or sold.
Or can be a generous loan,
These very special qualities,
You have to find on your own.

All these qualities make you rich,
Even though you may not own a dime.
If you have these you’ll be blessed,
With wonderful things in time!