This is proving to be one of those times where I'm having a little trouble getting started. Therefore, in Oder to get rolling, I'm going to use an old technique I learned in school and wrote about on the blog months ago. I'm just going to start writing and see where this goes.
I just noticed that it's 8:38 pm as I write this, so I'm going to have to put writing today's entry aside until I get home. We'll see if anything happns in the next two-and-a-half hours or so.
…
It's 11:03 pm and I just walked in the door at home. I wound up drawing some overtime on two big orders that were due today. I can always use the overtime, and it's not like I had to be immediately home. I usually only take overtime when the mood strikes me but today I didn't have much choice. The thing about overtime is that I dot like having to do it, but when I don't have to stay too long (that is, less than half an hour), I don't feel like it's much worth it. Still, I didn't have to stay too long, and I'm home now.
I can't really complain, though. Things have been so tight that I can always use the extra cash even if it isn't much. Besides, it all adds up in the end. Just got to trust in God's provision, and that He will provide however he intends to do so.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Day two-hundred-eleven
As believers, we all have those moments where we need to be reminded of God's goodness to us, in this case, in meeting our material needs.
Things have been very tight lately, from a monetary standpoint. As I read this, I'm pretty much broke and I don't get paid again for another week. I remembered out of nowhere that I did have some money set aside. My brother and I sold about $140.00 worth of items of mine on eBay, with the intention that the money go toward buying a TV. I called Joe and told him that I wanted to draw the money from Paypal to have until I get paid again. He agreed once I told him that we could always get a TV when he starts working and can set some money aside.
I am thankful that God reminded me of that money sitting there, and that Joe was amenable to having that money be used apart from its original plan. I'm also thankful that we didn't stay with that ironical eBay buyer that was dragging his feet on paying us. We wouldn't have had as much money in that pool otherwise.
I'm thirdly thankful that God watched over my bike while at work. I got all the way to work when I discovered that I didn't have my lock and chain. I don't keep my bike in the regular parking lot since they close the gate after dark, and I would have to wait for someone with their car to let me out. The place I park is outside but off the street in a little spot partially surrounded by a wrought iron fence. It's in view of both a glass door and a security camera, so someone would have to get pretty close to the building and risk being seen if they tried to take it.
Regardless, The Lord has been faithfully watching over me. What troubles me is how much I need to be reminded of God's goodness when He showed me His goodness by saving me. What is humbling is that The Lord is faithful and patient in reminding me.
Things have been very tight lately, from a monetary standpoint. As I read this, I'm pretty much broke and I don't get paid again for another week. I remembered out of nowhere that I did have some money set aside. My brother and I sold about $140.00 worth of items of mine on eBay, with the intention that the money go toward buying a TV. I called Joe and told him that I wanted to draw the money from Paypal to have until I get paid again. He agreed once I told him that we could always get a TV when he starts working and can set some money aside.
I am thankful that God reminded me of that money sitting there, and that Joe was amenable to having that money be used apart from its original plan. I'm also thankful that we didn't stay with that ironical eBay buyer that was dragging his feet on paying us. We wouldn't have had as much money in that pool otherwise.
I'm thirdly thankful that God watched over my bike while at work. I got all the way to work when I discovered that I didn't have my lock and chain. I don't keep my bike in the regular parking lot since they close the gate after dark, and I would have to wait for someone with their car to let me out. The place I park is outside but off the street in a little spot partially surrounded by a wrought iron fence. It's in view of both a glass door and a security camera, so someone would have to get pretty close to the building and risk being seen if they tried to take it.
Regardless, The Lord has been faithfully watching over me. What troubles me is how much I need to be reminded of God's goodness when He showed me His goodness by saving me. What is humbling is that The Lord is faithful and patient in reminding me.
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
Day two-hundred-ten
Today marks of the end of the thirtieth week of writing this blog. I'm glad to say that I've still only missed once in 210 days. I didn't know that I would still be doing it. When I started, I would've thought that I would get bored with it, stop writing, and eventually forget about it. I've already begun thinking about what I'll do with this blog when the year ends. I don't know if I'll keep it going, because I'm thinking about closing it out and trying something else. We'll see what happens.
I mentioned yesterday that my co-worker Christina left early with a migraine. Today we found out that she ended up in the hospital, and had to be put on an IV. Mom said that the IV meant that Christina's migraine was so severe, it had to be treated with a very aggressive drug, and she would need to have her vital signs monitored. I'm praying she'll be alright.
…
Things are okay, otherwise. Pray that we would trust God to meet our immediate financial needs. Money is very tight right now, and my sisters are only now beginning to get back to work. I'm pretty much tapped out until I get paid again next Thursday. Keep us in your prayers.
I mentioned yesterday that my co-worker Christina left early with a migraine. Today we found out that she ended up in the hospital, and had to be put on an IV. Mom said that the IV meant that Christina's migraine was so severe, it had to be treated with a very aggressive drug, and she would need to have her vital signs monitored. I'm praying she'll be alright.
…
Things are okay, otherwise. Pray that we would trust God to meet our immediate financial needs. Money is very tight right now, and my sisters are only now beginning to get back to work. I'm pretty much tapped out until I get paid again next Thursday. Keep us in your prayers.
Monday, July 28, 2014
Day two-hundred-nine
Just to show how little I think of work in my off-hours, I had completely forgotten that the employee barbecue lunch was today. I even brought a lunch from home, even though I knew about the barbecue, simply because I had forgotten about it. You might've seen the photo on Facebook. They do try to take care of us in these kinds of things, and people seem to appreciate it.
There was also supposed to be a salsa contest today that never happened. I guess it must be hard to have a contest when only two people actually bothered to bring salsa. There was supposed to be a prize for best salsa, but I don't know what happened.
My co-worker Christina wound up leaving work early. She came in with a migraine, and ended up having to be taken to urgent care by her husband. I hope she's alright. I know from dealing with Mom and both of my sisters how painful and downright debilitating migraines can be. I pray she'll be alright.
Not much else for today. Check back tomorrow.
There was also supposed to be a salsa contest today that never happened. I guess it must be hard to have a contest when only two people actually bothered to bring salsa. There was supposed to be a prize for best salsa, but I don't know what happened.
My co-worker Christina wound up leaving work early. She came in with a migraine, and ended up having to be taken to urgent care by her husband. I hope she's alright. I know from dealing with Mom and both of my sisters how painful and downright debilitating migraines can be. I pray she'll be alright.
Not much else for today. Check back tomorrow.
Sunday, July 27, 2014
Day two-hundred-eight
I got home not quite an hour and a half ago from helping to do more work at Aaron and Jen's new place. Rudy even came by and did some work for a while with his younger brother. I'm glad to be helping, and it certainly seems like the help has been needed.
While Aaron drove me home, he told me about how the hardest part had been to get those last touches done, which he likened to putting the last touches to an important paper. He and Jen have been putting in long days trying to get the house in order, particularly Aaron, who will go from work to the house and put in a day's work on it. They are getting more and more anxious to get out of their apartment in North Hollywood.
Since they have almost three weeks until their actual move-in date, he and Jen need to take a few days away from the house. They need to rest and clear their heads so that they're not just frazzled and tense by the time to move in. Aaron seemed to go for this; here's hoping that Jen will be similarly amenable.
…
I go back to work tomorrow. Now that Laura may be working soon and Olivia's been hired by the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, I'm thinking about looking for a different job. The job I have now meets my present needs, for which I am grateful, but it's not very interesting. I'm not really sure what I would want to do. Pray that God would grant me wisdom as I search for something else, and that I would trust The Lord to lead me where He intends me to go.
While Aaron drove me home, he told me about how the hardest part had been to get those last touches done, which he likened to putting the last touches to an important paper. He and Jen have been putting in long days trying to get the house in order, particularly Aaron, who will go from work to the house and put in a day's work on it. They are getting more and more anxious to get out of their apartment in North Hollywood.
Since they have almost three weeks until their actual move-in date, he and Jen need to take a few days away from the house. They need to rest and clear their heads so that they're not just frazzled and tense by the time to move in. Aaron seemed to go for this; here's hoping that Jen will be similarly amenable.
…
I go back to work tomorrow. Now that Laura may be working soon and Olivia's been hired by the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, I'm thinking about looking for a different job. The job I have now meets my present needs, for which I am grateful, but it's not very interesting. I'm not really sure what I would want to do. Pray that God would grant me wisdom as I search for something else, and that I would trust The Lord to lead me where He intends me to go.
Saturday, July 26, 2014
Day two-hundred-seven
It's Saturday, so I get to post this early today.
I went to my friend Aaron's new house to help with the painting. I basically finished a room that was pretty much already done, but ended some touching up. Hopefully, things will get done over there soon. I really won't be able to help again until next weekend.
Mom and Dad's friend Beverly has come over for the weekend. This is the first time I've seen her in several years. She'll be going to church with us tomorrow. She actually first brought Mom to our church in the 1970s, and that's where Mom first met Dad. So, she's a pretty important person for my mom and dad. For me and my brother and sisters, too, I guess.
…
I've recently been turned onto a Twitter feed called Scan BC, which is basically a Canadian fire department/police scanner feed. The majority of the tweets are usually describing serious incidents, but every so often, there comes along a few that are funny and sometimes bizarre. For example:
- Vancouver police responding to Howe St & W Cordova St for a person openly urinating inside a business
- North Vancouver RCMP are on scene 600 St Ives Crescent with a bear in a house. Conservation Officers responding.
- Duncan Fire is responding to a residence to assist a person with their hand caught in the engine of a car.
I went to my friend Aaron's new house to help with the painting. I basically finished a room that was pretty much already done, but ended some touching up. Hopefully, things will get done over there soon. I really won't be able to help again until next weekend.
Mom and Dad's friend Beverly has come over for the weekend. This is the first time I've seen her in several years. She'll be going to church with us tomorrow. She actually first brought Mom to our church in the 1970s, and that's where Mom first met Dad. So, she's a pretty important person for my mom and dad. For me and my brother and sisters, too, I guess.
…
I've recently been turned onto a Twitter feed called Scan BC, which is basically a Canadian fire department/police scanner feed. The majority of the tweets are usually describing serious incidents, but every so often, there comes along a few that are funny and sometimes bizarre. For example:
- Vancouver police responding to Howe St & W Cordova St for a person openly urinating inside a business
- North Vancouver RCMP are on scene 600 St Ives Crescent with a bear in a house. Conservation Officers responding.
- Vancouver Police are responding to the Liquor store at 3400 Kingsway after a male filled up a shopping cart with liquor and fled.
- Duncan Fire is responding to a residence to assist a person with their hand caught in the engine of a car.
- Kamloops RCMP are responding to Carson Dr after someone broke house window and started spraying bear mace in the house. Fled on foot.
- Vancouver fire dept. attended to an automatic alarm occupant of residence had burnt cornbread in the oven. No damage.
- Kamloops crews are on scene with a pedestrian struck by a vehicle outside of the Kamloops Hospital ER entrance.
I don't have a Twitter account nor do I follow anyone. It's just that sometimes, you can find oddball and unexpected things if you know where to look. Also, the best and weirdest stuff is always what's real.
I don't have a Twitter account nor do I follow anyone. It's just that sometimes, you can find oddball and unexpected things if you know where to look. Also, the best and weirdest stuff is always what's real.
Friday, July 25, 2014
Day two-hundred-six
Last night's post wound up being cut short; I wound up going out to eat with my parents after work. It was actually kind of back-and-forth as to whether we would even go at all. Because I work afternoons and evenings, we were out past midnight, and I've been tired for much of this week. I don't know if I'd feel up to going out so late. When I got home last night, my parents were under the impression that we were still on to go, so we went.
Because I had to cut off last night's post (so that it could be published on time), I didn't get to finish my point on forgiveness. Forgiveness is empowering for people. If someone has come to harm, forgiving the person who harmed them can allow them to move forward with their lives. My mother had to forgive her mother for a childhood of mistreatment, and was able to do so, once she was saved. My aunt cannot forgive their mother, even though Grandma has been dead for about thirty years, and my aunt is absolutely miserable from her inability to forgive.
Scripture calms upon us to forgive each other, just as God forgave us in Christ (Ephesians 4:32). He is faithful to forgive us who are unworthy of His forgiveness, so we ought to be equally faithful to forgive others. I think we all have stumbled in forgiving others as we ought to, and I am certainly including myself in that group.
If there's someone in your life you need to forgive, whatever the cause, forgive them. There's a lot of good reasons in the above paragraphs. And if you need to do so, seek forgiveness.
Because I had to cut off last night's post (so that it could be published on time), I didn't get to finish my point on forgiveness. Forgiveness is empowering for people. If someone has come to harm, forgiving the person who harmed them can allow them to move forward with their lives. My mother had to forgive her mother for a childhood of mistreatment, and was able to do so, once she was saved. My aunt cannot forgive their mother, even though Grandma has been dead for about thirty years, and my aunt is absolutely miserable from her inability to forgive.
Scripture calms upon us to forgive each other, just as God forgave us in Christ (Ephesians 4:32). He is faithful to forgive us who are unworthy of His forgiveness, so we ought to be equally faithful to forgive others. I think we all have stumbled in forgiving others as we ought to, and I am certainly including myself in that group.
If there's someone in your life you need to forgive, whatever the cause, forgive them. There's a lot of good reasons in the above paragraphs. And if you need to do so, seek forgiveness.
Thursday, July 24, 2014
Day two-hundred-five
I became privy to something that happened the other day that has very unfortunate consequences for someone I know. I will not say what it is, though some of you who read this may know about it and may be able to guess what it is. For what I want to talk about, please know that those involved will need prayer and trust that God will know of whom you are praying. If you know what I'm talking about, please do not state it here. Besides, for what I want to talk about today, it is not necessary to know the exact circumstances.
What does matter is that what happened led to Mom and I having a discussion on forgiveness. We got to talking about the power of forgiveness. Scripture reminds us that if we confess our sons, God is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us of all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). Forgiveness, especially God's forgiveness of sins, is transformative.
I'm going to have to wrap this up early. More on forgiveness tomorrow.
What does matter is that what happened led to Mom and I having a discussion on forgiveness. We got to talking about the power of forgiveness. Scripture reminds us that if we confess our sons, God is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us of all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). Forgiveness, especially God's forgiveness of sins, is transformative.
I'm going to have to wrap this up early. More on forgiveness tomorrow.
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Day two-hundred-four
Not much today. Ana's interview went well; she was even at work on time. Definitely an answer to prayer.
I just found out last night that my parents' friend Beverly is coming into town for the weekend. It seems that everyone knew that already, except for myself. Since I've started working nights, it seems like I've fallen out of the loop on a lot of things. I seem to learn a lot of things just before they happen. I'm not saying anyone has to run everything by me, but I would appreciate being told about these things rather than learn about them in passing.
…
I get paid tomorrow; actually, I get paid overnight because of direct deposit. I've spent a good amount of time in prayer for the past week-and-a-half that God would meet the material needs I've had. Matthew 6:28-34 admonishes us to remember The Lord's faithfulness to provide for His own as He provides for the lilies of the field, "that neither toil nor spin" (verse 28), so how much more is He faithful to His own people.
It's so easy for us not to trust God to provide for us, something of which I am as guilty as anyone. May we flee to The Lord in prayer and trust in Him in all things.
I just found out last night that my parents' friend Beverly is coming into town for the weekend. It seems that everyone knew that already, except for myself. Since I've started working nights, it seems like I've fallen out of the loop on a lot of things. I seem to learn a lot of things just before they happen. I'm not saying anyone has to run everything by me, but I would appreciate being told about these things rather than learn about them in passing.
…
I get paid tomorrow; actually, I get paid overnight because of direct deposit. I've spent a good amount of time in prayer for the past week-and-a-half that God would meet the material needs I've had. Matthew 6:28-34 admonishes us to remember The Lord's faithfulness to provide for His own as He provides for the lilies of the field, "that neither toil nor spin" (verse 28), so how much more is He faithful to His own people.
It's so easy for us not to trust God to provide for us, something of which I am as guilty as anyone. May we flee to The Lord in prayer and trust in Him in all things.
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Day two-hundred-three
Tonight, I think it's going to be a few quick points:
-No news on Christina's sister-in-law and her father. I asked Christina when I got to work this afternoon, and she had not heard anything new. Keep them in your prayers.
-Tomorrow, my co-worker Ana has her citizenship interview. Hopefully, it goes well. I found out from Ana earlier this evening that our coworker Emilia has her citizenship interview next week. Again, keep them both in your prayers.
-Today, there was a painting party at Aaron and Jen's new house today. If I hadn't had to go to work today, I would've gone. Had I known how slow the first couple of hours of work would be, I might've just taken the time off. The company might've appreicated not having to pay me for two hours when I spent most of that time standing around waiting for something to happen.
-No news on Christina's sister-in-law and her father. I asked Christina when I got to work this afternoon, and she had not heard anything new. Keep them in your prayers.
-Tomorrow, my co-worker Ana has her citizenship interview. Hopefully, it goes well. I found out from Ana earlier this evening that our coworker Emilia has her citizenship interview next week. Again, keep them both in your prayers.
-Today, there was a painting party at Aaron and Jen's new house today. If I hadn't had to go to work today, I would've gone. Had I known how slow the first couple of hours of work would be, I might've just taken the time off. The company might've appreicated not having to pay me for two hours when I spent most of that time standing around waiting for something to happen.
Monday, July 21, 2014
Day two-hundred-two
I'm at my last break at work. It's been an unusual day to say the least. It hasn't been busy, to the point that we were standing around for a while waiting for something to happen.
We had a huge order of 3000 cards that had to be thrown out and will be reprinted for a later date. The folder passed them through his machine in such a way that caused most of them to be visibly damaged. I was briefly made to sort through them to see if I could find any "good" ones. The few I found that were "good" would be better considered "salvageable"; in a better batch of work, they would've been thrown away. One manager tried to see if the edges could be cut to even them out, but it was discovered that it would've created an uneven border on the front of the card. As such, all 3291 cards are now resting in a recycling bin.
Nobody likes to throw away a job. It's such a waste of time and resources to do that.
…
My co-worker Christina asked for prayer. Her sister-in-law's father is in the hospital in the ICU. He had surgery but is doing poorly; the urgency with which her sister-in-law was asked to come to the hospital suggests that her father's time is limited. It's 11:00 pm as I write this and sister-in-law is on her way to the hospital in Las Vegas. Keep her in your prayers.
We had a huge order of 3000 cards that had to be thrown out and will be reprinted for a later date. The folder passed them through his machine in such a way that caused most of them to be visibly damaged. I was briefly made to sort through them to see if I could find any "good" ones. The few I found that were "good" would be better considered "salvageable"; in a better batch of work, they would've been thrown away. One manager tried to see if the edges could be cut to even them out, but it was discovered that it would've created an uneven border on the front of the card. As such, all 3291 cards are now resting in a recycling bin.
Nobody likes to throw away a job. It's such a waste of time and resources to do that.
…
My co-worker Christina asked for prayer. Her sister-in-law's father is in the hospital in the ICU. He had surgery but is doing poorly; the urgency with which her sister-in-law was asked to come to the hospital suggests that her father's time is limited. It's 11:00 pm as I write this and sister-in-law is on her way to the hospital in Las Vegas. Keep her in your prayers.
Sunday, July 20, 2014
Day two-hundred-one
Tired. I'm still tired from yesterday. I had a great time at the beach, but I feel like I'm still feeling the effects. It could be because today is the second straight day where I had to be up before 10:00 am. I kind of want to go back to sleep and I've already napped today.
After yesterday, I didn't have anything prepared for today. Usual things happened today: got up, went to church, was supposed to go to a fundraising barbecue, but did not go as I have no money until Thursday. I didn't want to show up to a fundraiser empty-handed.
…
Lately, I've been praying that God would cultivate a more humble attitude in me. What's been troubling to me is that it's forced me to see what a rotten attitude I've been carrying around with me that I didn't even realize was there. It seems like I'll have moments where it's staring me in the face how mean or hateful or irreverant I can be.
I do believe God is drawing this attitude out so that I may see it, and confess and turn from it. What makes it so troubling is how painful it is to know that this attitude is there. I spent so much of my life burying how I felt (this is before I got saved), and now I think it's starting to all come out. I'm grateful that God is working on me, but I admit that it can be very disheartening to see all this rottenness coming to the surface.
I realize I should be grateful that I didn't have to see this all at once when I was first saved. God is unfathomably patient with all believers and indeed the world as He saves those He intends to be His own (2 Peter 3:8-9). I pray that I would trust God as He continues to conform me to the image to His Son.
Saturday, July 19, 2014
Day two-hundred
I just got home about an hour ago from spending part of the day at the beach. The weather was nice, the beach wasn't crowded, and everyone seemed to have a good time. I told my friend Aaron that even though I enjoy these outings, I find myself still having to deal with the temptation not to participate. I always end up having a good time, so I find myself wondering, "Why do I resist?" It may be that it's still too easy for me forsake opportunities for fellowship, and when I miss those opportunities, I suffer for it. Someone once said that fellowship can sometimes be the clearest indicator of God's love for us, because of the love He has given us to have for Him and one another.
It gets me thinking about better things than myself, and nothing makes me more miserable than thinking of myself. When I focus on myself, I just get miserable. I'd rather do things for others, but it's too easy to let those opportunities to by.
On our way back, we listened to a Christian radio host examine a woman's YouTube clip where she attempted to use Scripture to dispute Calvinism. Her problem was that she misunderstood the essential point of Calvinism (the sovereignty of God), she made claims about Calvinism she made no attempt to substantiate, and badly misapplied Scriptural references by removing them from their appropriate context, to in order to (poorly) illustrate her point that Calvinists were in error. I would liken that last point to someone who knew nothing about cutting hair walking into a barber shop, picking a lock of hair off the floor, and asserting that the lock of hair proved that someone shaved a swastika into their hair.
I find myself praying so often, "Lord, grant me Your wisdom and understanding". I don't want to be in error, and I'm sure it's likely there's some point of doctrine I'm not understanding correctly. My knowledge is small and my understanding badly needs to grow. If I struggle with a point inScripture, that's not the Bible, that's on me.
After we got back into the area, Aaron and Jen took me to the house they will renting with Rudy and Eneida, and their baby. It looks like a nice house that needs a little work, but seems like it'll work for everyone involved; at least, that's the hope. It's close to church and near to where I live. We'll be helping as best we can to help everyone get settled. It's certainly a blessing to everyone involved.
…
Today is my friend Joshua's birthday. I hope he and Samantha are having a good time. They're very special people to me, as they are really the first Christian relationships I cultivated. I'm happy to know them and that they are doing well in Texas. I'd like to get out there and see them at some point. Who knows, it may happen. Anyway, happy 30th, Joshua. May The Lord bless you and Samie in the coming year.
It gets me thinking about better things than myself, and nothing makes me more miserable than thinking of myself. When I focus on myself, I just get miserable. I'd rather do things for others, but it's too easy to let those opportunities to by.
On our way back, we listened to a Christian radio host examine a woman's YouTube clip where she attempted to use Scripture to dispute Calvinism. Her problem was that she misunderstood the essential point of Calvinism (the sovereignty of God), she made claims about Calvinism she made no attempt to substantiate, and badly misapplied Scriptural references by removing them from their appropriate context, to in order to (poorly) illustrate her point that Calvinists were in error. I would liken that last point to someone who knew nothing about cutting hair walking into a barber shop, picking a lock of hair off the floor, and asserting that the lock of hair proved that someone shaved a swastika into their hair.
I find myself praying so often, "Lord, grant me Your wisdom and understanding". I don't want to be in error, and I'm sure it's likely there's some point of doctrine I'm not understanding correctly. My knowledge is small and my understanding badly needs to grow. If I struggle with a point inScripture, that's not the Bible, that's on me.
After we got back into the area, Aaron and Jen took me to the house they will renting with Rudy and Eneida, and their baby. It looks like a nice house that needs a little work, but seems like it'll work for everyone involved; at least, that's the hope. It's close to church and near to where I live. We'll be helping as best we can to help everyone get settled. It's certainly a blessing to everyone involved.
…
Today is my friend Joshua's birthday. I hope he and Samantha are having a good time. They're very special people to me, as they are really the first Christian relationships I cultivated. I'm happy to know them and that they are doing well in Texas. I'd like to get out there and see them at some point. Who knows, it may happen. Anyway, happy 30th, Joshua. May The Lord bless you and Samie in the coming year.
Friday, July 18, 2014
Day one-hundred-ninety-nine
Just a quick post tonight. I have an early day tomorrow, so I want to get this posted early.
I'm glad the weekend's here. Not that it's been a particularly difficult week, but I'm tired. I'm already having to wake much earlier than usual tomorrow. I'm looking forward to our time at the beach. I pray that The Lord is glorified in the time of fellowship.
I've started to get responses (or rather, one response) to yesterday's request for ideas for future blog posts. I want to see if I can generate some more, so I'm putting this out there again today. If there's something you'd like to see me (fumble my way through trying to) write about, post it here in the comments or in the comments on the Facebook link.
See you all tomorrow.
I'm glad the weekend's here. Not that it's been a particularly difficult week, but I'm tired. I'm already having to wake much earlier than usual tomorrow. I'm looking forward to our time at the beach. I pray that The Lord is glorified in the time of fellowship.
I've started to get responses (or rather, one response) to yesterday's request for ideas for future blog posts. I want to see if I can generate some more, so I'm putting this out there again today. If there's something you'd like to see me (fumble my way through trying to) write about, post it here in the comments or in the comments on the Facebook link.
See you all tomorrow.
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Day one-hundred-ninety-eight
I don't know what's going on, but while the number of readers for this blog has always been low, it's now at a point where almost no one is reading what I write. Admittedly, most of what I'm writing isn't very interesting to read. I probably wouldn't read this blog if I weren't writing it.
…
I didn't set out to start this entry with such a low point. I don't know what I ought to do, except to keep going. Someone out there is reading this blog, though I don't know who they are. Should that even matter? Am I doing this for my audience or myself? Is there an audience for what I write?
Sometimes I write because I just feel I ought to, usually because I just don't want to miss a day. The thing is, I find myself putting off writing these entries unti late in the day. As much as I want to keep doing this blog, there are times when it becomes a chore.
…
I want to try something different. Tell me what you guys want me to write about. If you have an idea, post it in the comments or on the Facebook link. If there's something interesting, I'll try tackling it.
…
I didn't set out to start this entry with such a low point. I don't know what I ought to do, except to keep going. Someone out there is reading this blog, though I don't know who they are. Should that even matter? Am I doing this for my audience or myself? Is there an audience for what I write?
Sometimes I write because I just feel I ought to, usually because I just don't want to miss a day. The thing is, I find myself putting off writing these entries unti late in the day. As much as I want to keep doing this blog, there are times when it becomes a chore.
…
I want to try something different. Tell me what you guys want me to write about. If you have an idea, post it in the comments or on the Facebook link. If there's something interesting, I'll try tackling it.
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Day one-hundred-ninety-seven
I'm surprised how much I'm looking forward to the picnic on Saturday. It looks like the weather will be with us for the day. For me, it's important not only not to get engaged, but stay engaged with other believers. I hope we have a good time.
My co-worker Ana left early today. I don't know for sure what happened, but she wasn't feeling well. When we came back from lunch, she started getting flushed fast. She went to sit by herself for a while, as our manager Raul wasn't sure she should drive. If I find out what happens, I'll let you know. I'm praying she'll be alright.
I found out tonight that our new manager Mervyn has arrived from the Philippines. Jeremiah says he's a nice guy, but from now on, I sounds like Ana and I will be reporting to him instead of John. That's a change. It seems like things are now starting to change as management is implementing that long-planned changes we've been hearing about.
I hadn't planned on writing this much about work tonight. I actually had something else in mind, but once again, I thought I would remember it when I should've taken the easy step to write it down.
…
I just realized something about this blog: I don't like most of what I've written over the life of this blog. A lot of posts are just me complaining about work or any number of other things. I've gotten into the habit of praying before I begin writing, and I think that has made a difference in my trying to remove the tone of complaint. I pray that I would glorify God in what I write, and that has often prompted to write about things i might not have done otherwise.
My co-worker Ana left early today. I don't know for sure what happened, but she wasn't feeling well. When we came back from lunch, she started getting flushed fast. She went to sit by herself for a while, as our manager Raul wasn't sure she should drive. If I find out what happens, I'll let you know. I'm praying she'll be alright.
I found out tonight that our new manager Mervyn has arrived from the Philippines. Jeremiah says he's a nice guy, but from now on, I sounds like Ana and I will be reporting to him instead of John. That's a change. It seems like things are now starting to change as management is implementing that long-planned changes we've been hearing about.
I hadn't planned on writing this much about work tonight. I actually had something else in mind, but once again, I thought I would remember it when I should've taken the easy step to write it down.
…
I just realized something about this blog: I don't like most of what I've written over the life of this blog. A lot of posts are just me complaining about work or any number of other things. I've gotten into the habit of praying before I begin writing, and I think that has made a difference in my trying to remove the tone of complaint. I pray that I would glorify God in what I write, and that has often prompted to write about things i might not have done otherwise.
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Day one-hundred-ninety-six
I just checked, and my already low readership is dwindling. I'm sure part of it has to be the recent number of uninteresting, frankly uninspired posts that I've done. Lately, it's felt like more and more of a chore to do this blog. I've also fallen back into my old pattern of writing so much about work, something of which I promised to do less.
I don't want to sit here and make excuses (although it certainly seems like that's what I'm doing). So now, let's start over again.
…
I'm thinking more and more about this coming Saturday. I'm looking forward to it, although I'm still facing the same temptation as before, which is not to go. It's wrong for me not to go for so many reasons. First, I said I would go; I'm committed. Second, I need the fellowship. Scripture reminds us not to forsake the gathering of the brethren, as some do (Hebrews 10:25). It's still all too easy for me not to engage others as I should, especially considering that those opportunities have been few and far between lately. Third, I need to be around others if I'm going to love them as I should. I need to love by brothers and sisters, and I am enriched by the experience of their love for me. On top of that, we are honoring to God when we love as we should.
I pray that I would make the most of the opportunities The Lord gives me. I want to be glorifying to God, but I need to be making the effort.
I don't want to sit here and make excuses (although it certainly seems like that's what I'm doing). So now, let's start over again.
…
I'm thinking more and more about this coming Saturday. I'm looking forward to it, although I'm still facing the same temptation as before, which is not to go. It's wrong for me not to go for so many reasons. First, I said I would go; I'm committed. Second, I need the fellowship. Scripture reminds us not to forsake the gathering of the brethren, as some do (Hebrews 10:25). It's still all too easy for me not to engage others as I should, especially considering that those opportunities have been few and far between lately. Third, I need to be around others if I'm going to love them as I should. I need to love by brothers and sisters, and I am enriched by the experience of their love for me. On top of that, we are honoring to God when we love as we should.
I pray that I would make the most of the opportunities The Lord gives me. I want to be glorifying to God, but I need to be making the effort.
Monday, July 14, 2014
Day one-hundred-ninety-five
Today was an unusually quiet day. I don't know why, but everyone seemed subdued at work. Maybe it was the long work week after the three-day weekend. Who knows?
For the first time in quite a while, I have plans for the weekend. I was able to be a ride to the Doulos beach day in Saturday, plus a barbecue on Sunday. I want to be more engaged with my brothers and sisters in Christ more often, especially as it's way too easy to me to be removed from others. I'm grateful for the opportunities to be with others.
This is proving to be a short post, so I'll just wrap it up. Come back tomorrow, it might be more interesting. It will probably also not be written so late in the day.
For the first time in quite a while, I have plans for the weekend. I was able to be a ride to the Doulos beach day in Saturday, plus a barbecue on Sunday. I want to be more engaged with my brothers and sisters in Christ more often, especially as it's way too easy to me to be removed from others. I'm grateful for the opportunities to be with others.
This is proving to be a short post, so I'll just wrap it up. Come back tomorrow, it might be more interesting. It will probably also not be written so late in the day.
Sunday, July 13, 2014
Day one-hundred-ninety-four
Not too much to say today. I've simply made a decision.
With Doulos not meeting for the month of July, it made me realize important it is for me to attend a regular fellowship group. I've admitted in the past that my church attendance can be inconsistent, and I need to make the effort to attend regularly. In the more than two years since I was saved, I've not regretted attending church; I've regretted the times I didn't go.
When August rolls around, I need to make the effort to give involved with a weekly Bible study. I've long been aware of the Glendale Bible study that meets on Saturdays. I've kind of dragged my feet about getting in touch with them, honestly due to laziness. It's too easy for me not to make the effort not to connect with other people as I should. I need to reconnect with my brothers and sisters in Christ, and I think I've been suffering for not being connected.
I'll let you readers know what happens.
With Doulos not meeting for the month of July, it made me realize important it is for me to attend a regular fellowship group. I've admitted in the past that my church attendance can be inconsistent, and I need to make the effort to attend regularly. In the more than two years since I was saved, I've not regretted attending church; I've regretted the times I didn't go.
When August rolls around, I need to make the effort to give involved with a weekly Bible study. I've long been aware of the Glendale Bible study that meets on Saturdays. I've kind of dragged my feet about getting in touch with them, honestly due to laziness. It's too easy for me not to make the effort not to connect with other people as I should. I need to reconnect with my brothers and sisters in Christ, and I think I've been suffering for not being connected.
I'll let you readers know what happens.
Saturday, July 12, 2014
Day one-hundred-ninety-three
No news today. Just spending this Saturday at home watching old episodes of Honey West on YouTube. It's 5:15 pm as I write this, and normally I would be anticipating going to lunch in about 45 minutes. As much as I enjoy the weekends, they throw off my entire routine.
This may just be one of my filler posts. Just to say that I posted something today, even if it's not much. I hate not having anything prepared and I at least try to do that, but Saturdays and Sundays are the two hardest days for writing. They tend to be the most uneventful.
I've written before about how I would start writing about nothing as a school writing exercise. A good many posts have come out of this practice. However, there are days, like today, where I just don't feel like writing. I've been doing it long enough that I want to keep doing it, even in those moments where it feels like a chore.
On the weekends, I especially push myself to write, as it was on a Saturday that I actually missed writing a daily entry for the first (and so far, only) time. That was due to forgetfulness; on weekends, I do try to post earlier in the day because I have time to do so.
Anyway, this was shaping up to be a filler post until something else came along for tomorrow. Now, maybe I've shared just a little more about how this blog gets to you. Sometimes, I scramble around in the dark, looking for something interesting. Other times, inspiration strikes.
This may just be one of my filler posts. Just to say that I posted something today, even if it's not much. I hate not having anything prepared and I at least try to do that, but Saturdays and Sundays are the two hardest days for writing. They tend to be the most uneventful.
I've written before about how I would start writing about nothing as a school writing exercise. A good many posts have come out of this practice. However, there are days, like today, where I just don't feel like writing. I've been doing it long enough that I want to keep doing it, even in those moments where it feels like a chore.
On the weekends, I especially push myself to write, as it was on a Saturday that I actually missed writing a daily entry for the first (and so far, only) time. That was due to forgetfulness; on weekends, I do try to post earlier in the day because I have time to do so.
Anyway, this was shaping up to be a filler post until something else came along for tomorrow. Now, maybe I've shared just a little more about how this blog gets to you. Sometimes, I scramble around in the dark, looking for something interesting. Other times, inspiration strikes.
Friday, July 11, 2014
Day one-hundred-ninety-two
It's been pretty hectic today at work. When I got in, I found our rack full of unpackaged items. Why the fist shift got so little done, I'm not sure, except that it seems that they may not be working with everyone they should. As such, it falls to us to get things done. Fortunately, we've got a lady named Dora, who's helped us before. She's very helpful and asks questions when she needs to.
Anyway, it's been such a hectic day, it got me thinking about how much I wanted to leave. There have been plenty of times where I was so frustrated, I just wanted to walk out and not look back. Of course, at the back of my mind, I know that's a very bad idea.
Ecclesiastes 5:2 admonishes believers not to be rash: "Do not be rash with your mouth, And let not your heart utter anything hastily before God. For God is in heaven, and you on earth; Therefore let your words be few." There have been times when I've been able to resist the temptation to speak rashly, but there are those moments when I've yielded to that temptation. The work that I do seems to stir of lot of temptation.
I pray that I would guard my words, that God would grant me patience and wisdom as I consider new employment, and that I would trust Him in all things as I should.
Anyway, it's been such a hectic day, it got me thinking about how much I wanted to leave. There have been plenty of times where I was so frustrated, I just wanted to walk out and not look back. Of course, at the back of my mind, I know that's a very bad idea.
Ecclesiastes 5:2 admonishes believers not to be rash: "Do not be rash with your mouth, And let not your heart utter anything hastily before God. For God is in heaven, and you on earth; Therefore let your words be few." There have been times when I've been able to resist the temptation to speak rashly, but there are those moments when I've yielded to that temptation. The work that I do seems to stir of lot of temptation.
I pray that I would guard my words, that God would grant me patience and wisdom as I consider new employment, and that I would trust Him in all things as I should.
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Day one-hundred-ninety-one
It's nearing the end of my second break at work. I started writing this post over two hours ago during lunch. I got as far as the title.
I've slipped back into my old habit of not having anything in particular prepared for today's post. Whatever the case, I've got to get back to work. We'll see how this shapes up when I get home.
…
I'm just glad this day is over. I feel like I was trying to stay focused mentally when I was already checking out for the week.
I think everyone's starting to feel the dog days of summer setting in. It seems like everyone's having trouble staying focused or completing tasks that should be easy. Everyone seems distracted, including me.
I think it's weighing more and more on my mind to really consider moving on. Honestly, my job isn't very rewarding. The best things about it are it meets my needs at the moment, it's close to home, and I can leave it all behind at the end of the day. It's not stimulating; in fact, it's very easy for my mind to wander doing what is essentially monotonous work. That's not a good thing in a job that demands a lot of attention to detail.
Pray that God would grant me wisdom and patience as I weight my options. Barring anything happening, I don't intend to leave unless I have somewhere else to go. The Lord knows best, and I need to trust Him in this. I know they value me as an employee, but that both means a lot and doesn't mean much at all, really. They value my work and yet that in itself doesn't make me want to stay doing what I'm doing.
I've slipped back into my old habit of not having anything in particular prepared for today's post. Whatever the case, I've got to get back to work. We'll see how this shapes up when I get home.
…
I'm just glad this day is over. I feel like I was trying to stay focused mentally when I was already checking out for the week.
I think everyone's starting to feel the dog days of summer setting in. It seems like everyone's having trouble staying focused or completing tasks that should be easy. Everyone seems distracted, including me.
I think it's weighing more and more on my mind to really consider moving on. Honestly, my job isn't very rewarding. The best things about it are it meets my needs at the moment, it's close to home, and I can leave it all behind at the end of the day. It's not stimulating; in fact, it's very easy for my mind to wander doing what is essentially monotonous work. That's not a good thing in a job that demands a lot of attention to detail.
Pray that God would grant me wisdom and patience as I weight my options. Barring anything happening, I don't intend to leave unless I have somewhere else to go. The Lord knows best, and I need to trust Him in this. I know they value me as an employee, but that both means a lot and doesn't mean much at all, really. They value my work and yet that in itself doesn't make me want to stay doing what I'm doing.
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Day one-hundred-ninety
When we returned from break today, we found our co-worker Christina in tears. She had just found out that her mother-in-law was diagnosed with cancer. Apparently, it's in the early stages, and the doctors found it when she underwent surgery for gallstones.
I almost didn't say anything to Christina, at first. At first, I wasn't really sure what I should say. She did say that she was trying to be positive, and did pray about it. I did paraphrase Romans 12:12, about remaining constantly in prayer. I don't think Christina is a believer, but I have shared with her when she had a question out of the blue about a biblical issue.
Whatever the case, I am keeping Christina and her mother-in-law in my prayers, with a lot of other things that have been on my lately. Pray that God would impress upon my heart to keep being everything to Him in prayer.
I almost didn't say anything to Christina, at first. At first, I wasn't really sure what I should say. She did say that she was trying to be positive, and did pray about it. I did paraphrase Romans 12:12, about remaining constantly in prayer. I don't think Christina is a believer, but I have shared with her when she had a question out of the blue about a biblical issue.
Whatever the case, I am keeping Christina and her mother-in-law in my prayers, with a lot of other things that have been on my lately. Pray that God would impress upon my heart to keep being everything to Him in prayer.
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
Day one-hundred-eighty-nine
I'm in kind of a funk right now. I don't really feel like writing. I'm doing this one because of the daily commitment.
…
I started this entry at the beginning of lunch. Lunch is almost over, and this is as much as I've written.
…
Update 11:11 pm- I'm home now, and I'm glad that I didn't post earlier. I wound up having a talk with my co-worker Red that got me thinking.
I forget exactly how we got on the topic, but he talked about how he was changing his schedule to go to school, trying to become a licensed vocational nurse. He told me about how he had a bachelor's degree in marketing from a school back home in The Philippines, but couldn't get anywhere in America with it.
As the conversation went on, Red told me that I shouldn't stay with the printing company, that he thought I could do better. Admittedly, I work there because my options aren't great at the moment, and I told him I didn't really like working there very much. I like my job well enough, but I'm not interested enough in what I do to pursue a promotion.
It's gotten me thinking about what I would to do. My mind went back to the fundraising we did when Joshua and Samantha Bahruth went on their South Africa missions trip two years ago. I liked doing that; I was helping others and I was building my first Christian relationships. If I could do something along those lines, I think that's something I'd like to do. I want to eventually be able to support a family, or a wife at the very least.
Anyway, it's something for me to think and pray about, and perhaps see what possibilities are out there.
…
I started this entry at the beginning of lunch. Lunch is almost over, and this is as much as I've written.
…
Update 11:11 pm- I'm home now, and I'm glad that I didn't post earlier. I wound up having a talk with my co-worker Red that got me thinking.
I forget exactly how we got on the topic, but he talked about how he was changing his schedule to go to school, trying to become a licensed vocational nurse. He told me about how he had a bachelor's degree in marketing from a school back home in The Philippines, but couldn't get anywhere in America with it.
As the conversation went on, Red told me that I shouldn't stay with the printing company, that he thought I could do better. Admittedly, I work there because my options aren't great at the moment, and I told him I didn't really like working there very much. I like my job well enough, but I'm not interested enough in what I do to pursue a promotion.
It's gotten me thinking about what I would to do. My mind went back to the fundraising we did when Joshua and Samantha Bahruth went on their South Africa missions trip two years ago. I liked doing that; I was helping others and I was building my first Christian relationships. If I could do something along those lines, I think that's something I'd like to do. I want to eventually be able to support a family, or a wife at the very least.
Anyway, it's something for me to think and pray about, and perhaps see what possibilities are out there.
Monday, July 7, 2014
Day one-hundred-eighty-eight
I had a really good idea for today's post, but I made a mistake; I tried to remember it, when I should've written it down. It's now completely escaped me. I remember thinking it was a really good idea.
I'm trying to see if I can bring it back if I start thinking, working backwards, sideways, seeing what if anything may bring it back from the ether.
…
Can't remember. Oh well.
…
I've lost ideas for any number of things simply because I thought I would remember. I would think, "That's a great idea!", but when the time came to remember, it would be lost somewhere in the ether. They never seem to come back, either.
For a long time, I wasn't too good at recalling peoples' names. I would try to remember that person's name, but I would always seem to think of a name that I knew was wrong. Eventually, I realized that if I started running through names that I knew were wrong, eventually I could remember the name. Of course, it's always easier to remember something fixed like a name, rather than a vague idea.
I guess it depends on how people are able to recall. In the Beach Boys' 1967 song "Busy Doin' Nothin'", Brian Wilson describes being able to recall forgotten telephone numbers by sitting and concentrating. I've tried doing something similar but I realized that I have to sort my thoughts, having to sometimes PCI the wrong thing just to find the right thing.
I'm trying to see if I can bring it back if I start thinking, working backwards, sideways, seeing what if anything may bring it back from the ether.
…
Can't remember. Oh well.
…
I've lost ideas for any number of things simply because I thought I would remember. I would think, "That's a great idea!", but when the time came to remember, it would be lost somewhere in the ether. They never seem to come back, either.
For a long time, I wasn't too good at recalling peoples' names. I would try to remember that person's name, but I would always seem to think of a name that I knew was wrong. Eventually, I realized that if I started running through names that I knew were wrong, eventually I could remember the name. Of course, it's always easier to remember something fixed like a name, rather than a vague idea.
I guess it depends on how people are able to recall. In the Beach Boys' 1967 song "Busy Doin' Nothin'", Brian Wilson describes being able to recall forgotten telephone numbers by sitting and concentrating. I've tried doing something similar but I realized that I have to sort my thoughts, having to sometimes PCI the wrong thing just to find the right thing.
Sunday, July 6, 2014
Day one-hundred-eighty-seven
I like these three-day weekends. You get the extra day, but they don't go on too long. When I was out sick from work a few weeks ago, it took a while to readjust to my usual schedule.
…
I don't know why but I've had this page open for over an hour trying to think about what I should write. Nothing has been immediately jumping to mind. Therefore, I think today I'll say a few words about why I write, or perhaps a better way to put it, what I get out of writing.
When I started this blog last January, one early key decision was to post on a daily basis. I realized that if I didn't post so frequently, my own natural tendency would be to put it off until later, whatever time "later" may be. Eventually, I'd put it off long enough that I'd stop writing altogether, or at the very least, that was my concern. I've have to be disciplined to sit down, pray about what I'm going to write, and then actually write it down. Developing the discipline to start this blog and to have kept it going is pretty encouraging when I stop to think about it. In the 187 days of the year thus far, I've only neglected to post an entry once. There were some times when I was nearly late, but only one miss in 187 days is not bad.
I have also found that in putting pen to paper (or rather, thumbs to touchscreen), I've found myself sorting out ideas or thoughts I've had, but have struggled to understand. There have been a number of occasions where, in trying to write about a particular issue in a clear and understandable manner, I've had moments of realization. Maybe it's just something becoming clear in the moment. Maybe it's God just choosing to make something clear to me in that moment, usually in regards to a biblical issue I'm struggling to understand. Whatever the case may be, writing forces me to stop and think, and listen .
This blog is also allowed me to open up about myself in a way that I've never done before. I've always been a fairly private, taciturn person, but before I was saved, I was aloof and standoffish. I didn't want to have anything to do with anyone else and I wanted everyone else to leave me alone. God let me have what I wanted, and all I had to show for it was loneliness, misery, and a lot of wasted years. After I got saved, I began to reach out to others and to be more willing to share about myself. The blog, perhaps even more so, has allowed me to become more personal in what I'm willing to share. Part of it may be that "distance" between writer and reader, but I think it's also because I'm just better able to say what I need to say when I can write it out. I'm not terribly good at expressing myself orally, though I'm trying to get better at it.
I pray that what I write here glorifies The Lord, and that it may, in some way, be an encouragement to those who read it.
…
I don't know why but I've had this page open for over an hour trying to think about what I should write. Nothing has been immediately jumping to mind. Therefore, I think today I'll say a few words about why I write, or perhaps a better way to put it, what I get out of writing.
When I started this blog last January, one early key decision was to post on a daily basis. I realized that if I didn't post so frequently, my own natural tendency would be to put it off until later, whatever time "later" may be. Eventually, I'd put it off long enough that I'd stop writing altogether, or at the very least, that was my concern. I've have to be disciplined to sit down, pray about what I'm going to write, and then actually write it down. Developing the discipline to start this blog and to have kept it going is pretty encouraging when I stop to think about it. In the 187 days of the year thus far, I've only neglected to post an entry once. There were some times when I was nearly late, but only one miss in 187 days is not bad.
I have also found that in putting pen to paper (or rather, thumbs to touchscreen), I've found myself sorting out ideas or thoughts I've had, but have struggled to understand. There have been a number of occasions where, in trying to write about a particular issue in a clear and understandable manner, I've had moments of realization. Maybe it's just something becoming clear in the moment. Maybe it's God just choosing to make something clear to me in that moment, usually in regards to a biblical issue I'm struggling to understand. Whatever the case may be, writing forces me to stop and think, and listen .
This blog is also allowed me to open up about myself in a way that I've never done before. I've always been a fairly private, taciturn person, but before I was saved, I was aloof and standoffish. I didn't want to have anything to do with anyone else and I wanted everyone else to leave me alone. God let me have what I wanted, and all I had to show for it was loneliness, misery, and a lot of wasted years. After I got saved, I began to reach out to others and to be more willing to share about myself. The blog, perhaps even more so, has allowed me to become more personal in what I'm willing to share. Part of it may be that "distance" between writer and reader, but I think it's also because I'm just better able to say what I need to say when I can write it out. I'm not terribly good at expressing myself orally, though I'm trying to get better at it.
I pray that what I write here glorifies The Lord, and that it may, in some way, be an encouragement to those who read it.
Saturday, July 5, 2014
Day one-hundred-eighty-six
In reading 2 Peter 2 this morning, I realized something about myself: I have problems with authority. Particularly, I realized I have trouble submitting to authority, at least, doing so without grumbling.
2 Peter 2 gives a general description of the false teachers who were threatening the church at the time. One of the characteristics of the false teachers is that they would deny the authority of The Lord. Peter cites the extreme example of submitting to authority is the archangel Michael refusing to even speak ill of Satan, leaving that kind of condemnation to The Lord, with whom it belonged. Reading that made me realize that I have trouble submitting myself to authority in humility, even to The Lord.
It also reminded me how patently unwise it is for us to ever engage Satan directly. Rather, we ought to run and hide ourselves in The Lord's protection when Satan or his demons come calling. Satan will look for any way to get at us, and the Epistle of James admonishes us to resist Satan, and he will depart from us, by submitting by God (4:7).
Submitting to God carries a lot of things, but one we should remember is protection, namely spiritual protection not only from temptation but also the tempter.
2 Peter 2 gives a general description of the false teachers who were threatening the church at the time. One of the characteristics of the false teachers is that they would deny the authority of The Lord. Peter cites the extreme example of submitting to authority is the archangel Michael refusing to even speak ill of Satan, leaving that kind of condemnation to The Lord, with whom it belonged. Reading that made me realize that I have trouble submitting myself to authority in humility, even to The Lord.
It also reminded me how patently unwise it is for us to ever engage Satan directly. Rather, we ought to run and hide ourselves in The Lord's protection when Satan or his demons come calling. Satan will look for any way to get at us, and the Epistle of James admonishes us to resist Satan, and he will depart from us, by submitting by God (4:7).
Submitting to God carries a lot of things, but one we should remember is protection, namely spiritual protection not only from temptation but also the tempter.
Friday, July 4, 2014
Day one-hundred-eighty-five
3 His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4 Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
5 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins.
- 1 Peter 1:3-9 (New International Version)
…
I think every believer at some point is led to a particular passage in Scripture that speaks directly to some matter they're facing or some issue with which they're struggling. It happened to me today.
I began reading 2 Peter this morning, and chapter one includes the above passage. It penetrated right to the heart of an issue I've been struggling with, lately. The notes on this passage in the MacArthur Study Bible refer to the forgetfulness in verse nine as "spiritual amnesia". Lately, it seems like I've been struggling with more of the same old sins I've always struggled with. Not by coincidence, I've also seen opportunities for fellowship seem to fall by the wayside, or I fail to take advantage of them when they come.
I have found that when I draw away from fellowship, I also tend to draw away from the godly things I should be pursuing, as described in verses six and seven. I see so much of the same old sins arise in me, that trouble my spirit. I became clouded to the good things of God even as I was struggling to make sense of what was going on. I needed wisdom and understanding of what I was dealing with.
The obvious answer, now that I can look back with some perspective, was that I had in a sense forgotten the good things God had done to me and for me. I was struggling with whether God still cared for me when it was I who have failed to care as I ought to. I needed to see this clearly, like the passage above. I needed to see in no uncertain terms that it was I who had failed to heed The Lord, but that He still loved and cared for me.
5 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins.
- 1 Peter 1:3-9 (New International Version)
…
I think every believer at some point is led to a particular passage in Scripture that speaks directly to some matter they're facing or some issue with which they're struggling. It happened to me today.
I began reading 2 Peter this morning, and chapter one includes the above passage. It penetrated right to the heart of an issue I've been struggling with, lately. The notes on this passage in the MacArthur Study Bible refer to the forgetfulness in verse nine as "spiritual amnesia". Lately, it seems like I've been struggling with more of the same old sins I've always struggled with. Not by coincidence, I've also seen opportunities for fellowship seem to fall by the wayside, or I fail to take advantage of them when they come.
I have found that when I draw away from fellowship, I also tend to draw away from the godly things I should be pursuing, as described in verses six and seven. I see so much of the same old sins arise in me, that trouble my spirit. I became clouded to the good things of God even as I was struggling to make sense of what was going on. I needed wisdom and understanding of what I was dealing with.
The obvious answer, now that I can look back with some perspective, was that I had in a sense forgotten the good things God had done to me and for me. I was struggling with whether God still cared for me when it was I who have failed to care as I ought to. I needed to see this clearly, like the passage above. I needed to see in no uncertain terms that it was I who had failed to heed The Lord, but that He still loved and cared for me.
Thursday, July 3, 2014
Day one-hundred-eighty-four
This is the first time I have attempted to dictate a blog entry via Siri. So far it seems to be working. I am only doing this because I cut my right thumb at work today and that makes it very difficult to type on my iPod touch. Hopefully my thumb will be better tomorrow as the cut on my thumb begins to close up. It is very tedious to try to write on an iPod touch screen with only one hand.
I am writing this blog entry at home and it is not yet 10 PM. We were allowed to leave at 9:30 as a gesture for the long holiday weekend. it's nice to be able to leave work early of oh I confess that I would rather be able to have the extra hour but I can get paid for. This pay period is already going to be short as it is as I do not get holiday pay.
I think I'm finally getting the hang of dictating to my iPod via Siri. I think I may start doing this from now on. Although now that I think about it, it may not be the best idea as I typically do my blog riding while I'm on break or at lunch at work. I'm still getting the hang of having to say COMMA or P ER I O D in order to get the right punctuation mark. With a little bit of practice, I think I could get used to the idea of dictation. However, it is odd that I could say all these things out loud and have it appear on the screen. I've gotten so used to typing, it seems odd to verbalize this blog. It's kind of like reading it while it's being written.
In looking back over what I've dictated, I realize that I need to enunciate my words more clearly. Sometimes Siri puts the wrong word because it's just trying to guess what I am saying and it ends up being incorrect. I have also noticed that sometimes it leaves words out if it does not seem to hear them correctly. All in all, it's a different way of doing things.
…
I was going to write about how tomorrow is Independence Day, and how we are planning to barbecue, but I have suddenly become very self-conscious about dictating this blog. It is occurred to me that people probably can hear me, as I have to enunciate very clearly and rather loudly in order for Siri to hear me clearly. It is strange; I find that having to dictate this blog has actually made me rather reluctant in having anything to say. Perhaps it is because in typing it out I tend to think more about when I'm going to say. I am not talkative by nature, so it seems very odd me for me to be saying this to anyone or anything, be it another person or Siri.
I also find that because I am dictating, and because Siri does not seem to understand my voice very well, I am having to do a good deal more editing. Typically it seems to be that Siri has misheard what I have said and has inserted the improper word or has left out a word.
I guess we will just have to chalk this one up to an experiment. I'm not terribly happy with the results, and even though my thumb needs to be bandaged, I am more inclined to try typing again than to continue with dictation. Besides, I have other things to do right now. I have to go start getting the grill ready for tomorrow and it's going to take some time, we need to let the actual grill soak so that we can scrub it in the morning. Also, I got to go dig out all the ashes so we can have good hot-hurting coals when we cook.
I am writing this blog entry at home and it is not yet 10 PM. We were allowed to leave at 9:30 as a gesture for the long holiday weekend. it's nice to be able to leave work early of oh I confess that I would rather be able to have the extra hour but I can get paid for. This pay period is already going to be short as it is as I do not get holiday pay.
I think I'm finally getting the hang of dictating to my iPod via Siri. I think I may start doing this from now on. Although now that I think about it, it may not be the best idea as I typically do my blog riding while I'm on break or at lunch at work. I'm still getting the hang of having to say COMMA or P ER I O D in order to get the right punctuation mark. With a little bit of practice, I think I could get used to the idea of dictation. However, it is odd that I could say all these things out loud and have it appear on the screen. I've gotten so used to typing, it seems odd to verbalize this blog. It's kind of like reading it while it's being written.
In looking back over what I've dictated, I realize that I need to enunciate my words more clearly. Sometimes Siri puts the wrong word because it's just trying to guess what I am saying and it ends up being incorrect. I have also noticed that sometimes it leaves words out if it does not seem to hear them correctly. All in all, it's a different way of doing things.
…
I was going to write about how tomorrow is Independence Day, and how we are planning to barbecue, but I have suddenly become very self-conscious about dictating this blog. It is occurred to me that people probably can hear me, as I have to enunciate very clearly and rather loudly in order for Siri to hear me clearly. It is strange; I find that having to dictate this blog has actually made me rather reluctant in having anything to say. Perhaps it is because in typing it out I tend to think more about when I'm going to say. I am not talkative by nature, so it seems very odd me for me to be saying this to anyone or anything, be it another person or Siri.
I also find that because I am dictating, and because Siri does not seem to understand my voice very well, I am having to do a good deal more editing. Typically it seems to be that Siri has misheard what I have said and has inserted the improper word or has left out a word.
I guess we will just have to chalk this one up to an experiment. I'm not terribly happy with the results, and even though my thumb needs to be bandaged, I am more inclined to try typing again than to continue with dictation. Besides, I have other things to do right now. I have to go start getting the grill ready for tomorrow and it's going to take some time, we need to let the actual grill soak so that we can scrub it in the morning. Also, I got to go dig out all the ashes so we can have good hot-hurting coals when we cook.
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Day one-hundred-eighty-three
This is just a quick post, as I am home late tonight. So, you're getting bullet points:
- Had our monthly safety lunch. Mexican food. I had carne asada tacos and chicken tacos.
- Had a training meeting after lunch that lasted for nearly an hour then had or final break. This put us an hour behind.
- Had to do an hour of overtime just to get everything done. This, despite the fact that again, today started extremely slowly in terms of workload. I'm hoping there's no overtime tomorrow, and I don't think there will be. No one will want to stay late.
- Saw both a wild raccoon in the parking lot and a kitten wandering the sidewalk on the way home.
Check back tomorrow. Hopefully, you'll get something more substantial.
- Had our monthly safety lunch. Mexican food. I had carne asada tacos and chicken tacos.
- Had a training meeting after lunch that lasted for nearly an hour then had or final break. This put us an hour behind.
- Had to do an hour of overtime just to get everything done. This, despite the fact that again, today started extremely slowly in terms of workload. I'm hoping there's no overtime tomorrow, and I don't think there will be. No one will want to stay late.
- Saw both a wild raccoon in the parking lot and a kitten wandering the sidewalk on the way home.
Check back tomorrow. Hopefully, you'll get something more substantial.
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Day one-hundred-eighty-two
When I get off work tonight, Mom and Dad want to take me out to get a late meal. I got off at 10:30 pm, so about the only place open at that time is Denny's. We went out like this before back in May, if I recall correctly. I think it's because the hours I keep mean that I tend to be excluded from get-togethers, and as such, I don't see much of friends or family during the week.
This actually dovetails nicely into the subject I had planned to write about yesterday. I held off in the end because I wanted to give it the time and attention it warranted.
Lately, it seems like I've been spending a lot of time on my own. Whether it's just circumstance or lack of opportunity, I've not been spending much time with others. The hours I keep make it difficult to get together with other people, and the fact that I've had to drop out of my Bible study for work reasons.
Whatever the case or reason, if there's anything I've learned time and again, it's that when I find myself not engaging others as I should be, my behavior and my attitude turn bad. I find myself turning mean, bitter, self-indulgent, and just generally feeling rotten. I've learned that I can't trust my feelings, and that I ought to be trusting God with all my heart. However, I still find myself having to deal with the sinful reality that I still so often let my feelings dictate my attitude.
It's also still very difficult for me to reach out to others. I spent so much of my life turning inward, away from others, that even today, my inclination is to retreat when I ought to be reaching out. When I'm struggling with something, I ought to be taking it to The Lord in prayer, and sometimes I've been reluctant to do so. When it comes to engaging my brothers and sisters, I find it still all too easy to hold them at arms' length. Galatians 6:2 says we are to bear each other's burden, and in doing so, we fulfill the law of Christ. As I sit here writing this, I've thought about how I've kept myself from others out of fear and pride, but I've realized that I failed to look at things from the other side. What it there was someone who needed me or could have used my help and I wasn't there to give it? What if I didn't take advantage of a spiritual opportunity?
That's one of the good things about writing this blog: it has sometimes helped me to put things in perspective.
It's such an easy temptation for me to wonder if God is tired of hearing about my problems. Rather than dwell in a sinful attitude, I ought to be taking my troubles to The Lord, as 1 Peter 5:7 says, "(C)asting all your cares upon Him, for He cares for you."
This actually dovetails nicely into the subject I had planned to write about yesterday. I held off in the end because I wanted to give it the time and attention it warranted.
Lately, it seems like I've been spending a lot of time on my own. Whether it's just circumstance or lack of opportunity, I've not been spending much time with others. The hours I keep make it difficult to get together with other people, and the fact that I've had to drop out of my Bible study for work reasons.
Whatever the case or reason, if there's anything I've learned time and again, it's that when I find myself not engaging others as I should be, my behavior and my attitude turn bad. I find myself turning mean, bitter, self-indulgent, and just generally feeling rotten. I've learned that I can't trust my feelings, and that I ought to be trusting God with all my heart. However, I still find myself having to deal with the sinful reality that I still so often let my feelings dictate my attitude.
It's also still very difficult for me to reach out to others. I spent so much of my life turning inward, away from others, that even today, my inclination is to retreat when I ought to be reaching out. When I'm struggling with something, I ought to be taking it to The Lord in prayer, and sometimes I've been reluctant to do so. When it comes to engaging my brothers and sisters, I find it still all too easy to hold them at arms' length. Galatians 6:2 says we are to bear each other's burden, and in doing so, we fulfill the law of Christ. As I sit here writing this, I've thought about how I've kept myself from others out of fear and pride, but I've realized that I failed to look at things from the other side. What it there was someone who needed me or could have used my help and I wasn't there to give it? What if I didn't take advantage of a spiritual opportunity?
That's one of the good things about writing this blog: it has sometimes helped me to put things in perspective.
It's such an easy temptation for me to wonder if God is tired of hearing about my problems. Rather than dwell in a sinful attitude, I ought to be taking my troubles to The Lord, as 1 Peter 5:7 says, "(C)asting all your cares upon Him, for He cares for you."
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)