Stuck in the Pit?

I have to ask myself this very question going through every situation that seems to knock the very breath out of me—spiritually speaking.  Am I stuck in a pit?

Years ago, while in the middle of a particular “battle” as it were, I remember a phone call with my mother.  I was firmly planted in a pit. 

Pretty much like Beth Moore described in her book, “Get Out of That Pit”.  I had decorated it…tried to make it pretty….but that didn’t change what it was, nor what it was doing to me. 
I had a party going on all the time!
A “pity party”.  Or, say it like this:  “A Pit for me Party”.  And I wasn’t budging anytime soon. 

Mother tried her best motherly advice—all her cajoling, her “peppy words”, everything a good mother could and would say to a child (no matter the age), firmly entrenched in the depths of her personal pit.


Finally, in desperation to get her to leave me alone I said, “Mother.  Stop.  I’m having a pity party-and I’m not done.  When I’m done, I will get out.  Please let me finish”.

That is pretty much how parties in my pit went.  When I had had enough…and the prayers of a faithful mother—who refused to let her daughter continue—but sought God on her behalf had been ushered up to Glory and heard by the King (Psalm 34:1-7), I would come to my senses and seek God for myself and –HE reaching down—the hand that had always been extended, would help me “out” of the pit.

This morning, my pit experiences came to mind as I prayed for and thought of some others who are current pit dwellers.  Be it either by way of a stronghold of the flesh, mind or spirit…it can be a place so deep—that we cannot see the light of day…Nor the LIGHT that permeates every dark place.

What I did was succumb.  I was satisfied that this was the place I would dwell the rest of my days.  In a battle of the mind.  I didn't want it to take them as long to get OUT as it did me.

Others battle things that many of us are familiar with.  Be it tobacco, drugs, alcohol, perversions of the flesh, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, the list goes on and on…they are all life affecting, life altering and life diminishing existences in a pit. 

Satan desires to destroy us…God desires to bring us out of those times and places and restore our purpose and vision greater and brighter than before.

Many things I have experienced that others have not.  MANY things I have NOT experienced that others have.  Each life has it’s own exposure to plots created and planned by the enemy—who knows our weakness and that is the very tool he uses to try and bring about our demise.

BUT we don’t have to stay in that battle—and when we realize that as a child of the Most High God—this not our battle to fight, but His—then we are on steady feet—and the path is clearer. 

2 Chronicles 32:7-8 records these words by Hezekiah.  “Be strong and courageous!  Don’t be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria or  his mighty army, for there is a power far greater on our side!  He may have a great army, but they are merely men.  We have the LORD our God to help us and to fight our battles for us!”…(NLT)

Tell me, if after reading those words from Hezekiah, don’t you feel strengthened?  Don’t you feel a Source greater than your own might envelope you with might and strength?  I do.  I see more clear.  The dust from the battle ground settles and I see more clear the plot and plan of the enemy—and I know now what to do.

• Pray.
• Fight. 
• Suit up with the armor that is laid out in the Word as in Ephesians 6:12-18.

People.  We’ve got a battle to fight—and it must be fought daily.  There is not a single place where we can lay aside our sword, helmet or breastplate and take ease.  This war will continue until the Day of Christ’s Return. (Revelation 1:7)  The walls of the pit will get higher—more slippery—harder to scale, while we sit idly by and not do our part.

• Complacency in the pit will lead to eternal death and damnation. 
• Complacency leads to a lukewarm existence…and that existence nauseates God to the point of vomiting.

Get up.  Get out.  Gear up!  Arm yourself (I say this to myself as well!) with the weapons that we are instructed to use against the enemy! (Ephesians 6:14-18)

In 2 Corinthians, Paul addresses the spiritual war. (10:3-6 NKJV) “

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.  For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.”

An excerpt from NKJV Study Bible footnotes:  “strong holds…high thing:  Overlooking ancient Corinth was a hill 1,857 feet high.  On top of it was a fortress.  Paul used that imagery as an illustration of the spiritual warfare he waged.  He destroyed strongholds, cast down towers, and took captives.  The fortress, towers, and captives represent the arguments, thoughts and plans that Paul was opposing. 

Paul cast down all rationalizations. 
He took captive to the obedience of Christ every perception and intention of the heart that was against God.  Our actions reveal our thoughts.   We should not cling to thoughts that do not conform to the life and teachings of Christ.  Paul did not walk according to the flesh.”

Our actions reveal our thoughts. Paul said in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27  “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize?  Run in such a way that you may obtain it.  And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things.  Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown.  Therefore I run thus:  not with uncertainty.  Thus I fight:  not as one who beats the air.  But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.” (emphasis  mine)

Thinking defeated thoughts is allowing the enemy to plant seeds of doom.  Seeds that will not grow and become what God intended when you began your journey with Him.  You can’t give in to the enemy in your thought life and win a battle.  It just won’t happen.

I speak from experience in this!  Too many times I allowed thoughts of defeat, doubt, fear, or flesh to enter in the picture God was working on in my life.  At those points I think He halted His brush strokes—in mid-air.

I think perhaps He was saying, “Angie, until you settle “who you are in Me, We can’t finish what We started.”
What are you trying to settle in your heart and mind? 
Do you know who you are in Christ? 
Are you aware of the armor that has been made available to you—to enable you to fight well and WIN?


I encourage you today, dig into the Word.  That is where the answers lie to all the issues we face.  Every single one.
You can win the battle instead of succumb….
determine today to do so!




Previously published, 10/3/11
© Angie Knight- The Knightly News 2007-2012.  All rights reserved.

It Begins With Prayer

Everything.  Every single thing we do should begin with prayer.

Now, before you think I'm nuts, I am not talking about asking God to help you pick out a pair of socks. For crying out loud! He gave us a brain to decide for ourselves....

What I am talking about is giving our day to Him before it begins... Deciding at the onset of the day that we will use every opportunity to glorify Him and praise in in everything.

"Always be joyful.
Never stop praying.
Whatever happens, give thanks, because it is God's will in Christ Jesus that you do this." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 GWT)

The "whatever happens" is where we all get hung up.

This time in 2008 we found it hard to give thanks in "all things"....but we pressed in, and pressed on, and did it regardless.

What happened when we gave thanks? When we praised? Our minds left our problems and focused in on God the Father. OUR FATHER. Who is Soveriegn above all--and HIS decisions can be trusted.

Join me over at Laced with Grace for the rest of this devotion.  Click here.

© The Knightly News 2012

Read Any Good Books Lately?

Might I suggest one?

In my search for good books—there is one that cannot be topped…no matter how fascinating the author.

The Word of God is the infallible—authoritative rule of faith—the very revelation of God to man.  It is our foundation.  Our core.  Our strength.

When I’m troubled, it’s the second place I go.  I said second, because when I’m troubled I go to the Author first.  I do all my “tellin’” to Him.

Besides growing up in a wonderful church home, I was blessed with the Word of God taught in our home, and read in our school at the end of each day by Mrs. Hawkins, my 5th grade teacher.  That short 30 minute Bible lesson was perhaps all the Biblical training some of the class received—in that short span of one school year.

Sadly, I have learned that there are countless individuals in our little towns and cities who cannot tell Adam from Jonah—and they have no clue who Jesus really is.  What happened?

I didn’t go to a private school…we just lived in a blessed community, where God was more than a swear word.  As a matter of fact, Mrs. Hawkins would wash your mouth out with nasty green “dispenser soap” if she heard you say anything that resembled a swear word or anything equivalent to a swear word (even words like “gosh, golly, gee-wiz, darn-it, etc).  It was a “law” in her class.   And anyone who broke the law…well –you remember the “cleansing of the mouth”?

What happened?

I believe it is the neglecting of the Book.  The rare time spent on our knees…the lack of a true humble spirit—it’s a life lived in a fast pace—too fast for time in the Word—but plenty of time for the world.

I’ve shared with our Young Adult group on several occasions that I enjoy Oswald Chambers’ writings, along with many others (Oswald being a favorite), but more than reading Oswald, I enjoy time spent in the Word of God.  Oswald may have made a mistake in his theology (I haven’t found one, but that’s not to say he was perfect)—but there are no errors in the Word of God.

I pray each time I teach—that they go home and search out what I’ve said—that they get up with God about things they need in their lives. And that they leave determined to know HIM more than perhaps the latest updates on Facebook.  Please know HIM more.  Get in His Word…that is the only place you will TRULY find out about HIM.  And His incredible—unfailing, undeniable, irrefutable love for you.  And every single lost person walking the dirt of this globe.

Ask around.  you will be surprised at who “knows” about Jesus and who doesn’t.

Remember this man? Bolivia 2011….

God’s love is for him too.

“For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile. This Good News tells us how God makes us right in his sight. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scriptures say, “It is through faith that a righteous person has life” Romans 1:16-17 NLT

 

© Angie Knight—The Knightly News.  All rights reserved.

 

Thank you Savanah Lollie for use of your picture.

The Old and the New

When I worked at the law office in Dothan, I had certain a routine for closing out the year and beginning a new one.  Same when I worked at the high school.  New files were made...certain old ones were filed away...and in some cases, a purging happened.

Sometimes--that needs to be done in our lives...a purging.

When we moved in November--I knew in advance that there would be some things that just would not "fit" in this sweet little house.  The couch for instance.

Now friend...I loved my couch.  We spent a LONG time searching for the right couch...with Bible Study and Prayer times in mind....and it was well used for those purposes--as well as snuggling with grandkids and watching a good movie.

Our Common Grounds girls loved it too...I remember several of them making the comment the first time they came over to pray--"oh I sure wish I had THIS!"  Unfortunately, it didn't fit in the house.  But God supplied another for us to use that does fit.

The "prayer" couch, where I met with Jesus every morning in one certain spot--will STILL be used as  a place to meet with God--and learn of Him though--it will reappear soon--and I will show you where and tell you how....later.

In the moving--and purging--and cleaning out of all the "clutter of life"--I discovered something about me.  I would have a tendency to be a hoarder if I wasn't careful.  I mean--I kept every sweet note every person mailed me--and those darlin' cards that lifted my heart--tucked in a cedar chest. 

There came a time though--that the cedar chest had to be used for it's original intent.  To store "quilts and blankets".  so I took a few hours and cleaned it out--going through every single card....

I'll be honest--I had a hard time parting with some of the cards--and some of them (those that had a scripture verse and special note) I kept.  But in comparison, it was just a  few reminders of where God has brought me.  As I re-read the cards--I saw the hand of God moving in my life through encouragement of others.  I knew that in many girl's shoe boxes or a drawer was perhaps a card or note with  my signature--and a prayer.  I know the value of the written word--and a prayer of faith in a desperate time of need.... I've been there.

In the purging process--God showed me that if I'm not careful, I will tend to hold on to what He's done in the past--satisfied with that--yet knowing that there is SO MUCH MORE that He wants to do in the future!

Can I share a secret?  He's got more.  MORE than you could even imagine is in store for this next year!  I feel it in my BONES!

Isaiah wrote about the LORD reminding him of what He had done in the past and letting him know that the future  held even greater promise for the Children of Israel!

(Isaiah 43:15-19 NLT)
I am the Lord, your Holy One,
Israel’s Creator and King.
¹⁶ I am the Lord, who opened a way through the waters,
making a dry path through the sea.
¹⁷ I called forth the mighty army of Egypt
with all its chariots and horses.
I drew them beneath the waves, and they drowned,
their lives snuffed out like a smoldering candlewick.
¹⁸ “But forget all that—
it is nothing compared to what I am going to do.
¹⁹ For I am about to do something new.
See, I have already begun! Do you not see it?
I will make a pathway through the wilderness.
I will create rivers in the dry wasteland....

We cannot begin to comprehend what HE is about to do in our midst!  BELIEVE.  TRUST.  DO NOT WAVER in your heart about HIS LOVE.

I want to live this gift of 2012 with such intentional devotion to Christ that I see Him at every turn.  I want HIS presence to feel as it does today--and has for the past several days...thick--sweet as honey.
I intend to make a mark for HIM.  So that HE will be glorified.  I am willing to go through the purging process--and let HIM direct me at all the things that are unfit--the things that are choking the life out of me--so that there is ROOM for HIM to  dwell without any hindrances.

I discovered though with the move--it is an intentional process.  Friends can't help you with this.  YOU must desire this--and make the necessary changes on your own.

I have helped others move before--and if you're not careful--you will simply take everything that is in the "past" house and move it right into the "NEW" house.  And it just won't fit. 

Moving is best done with a clear mind on what you really NEED....not what you want. 

As 2012 dawns--take some time and  evaluate the "unnecessary" of your life...see what things are "time stealers"...and what throws your mind and heart into a pit of dispair.  Get rid of those things.  I can only tell you from my experience....you will be amazed at how you will feel...

A fresh rain is getting ready to fall on God's people...and I don't want anything to hinder me from feeling every single drop.  The road ahead holds great promise....don't be left standing around...be ready.

© The Knightly News 2007-2011

2011 Gifts

If I had all night, I could not begin to share with you all the gifts God laid over into our lives this year.  You might be thinking gifts as in “$$”.  But I’m not.  I’m thinking “delights”. 

Things that really get me excited, the hand clapping, giggly sort.

 

I will share through a few pictures. I think it will explain it best.

While we were in Ohio at a conference, the LORD brought me a present.  Amazing gift God gave me—just because I love snow.  (It was not predicted to snow…but I asked—and He gave.)

 

 

This praying group of men put a roof on our house.  Just because they LOVE THE LORD.  And they love to serve Him by blessing others.  They blessed us that day.

 

 

There were so many spectacular sunsets that took my breath away.  But this one looked as if you could “touch” the land on the other side of the setting sun.  That is totally untouched photo.

 

 

 

There were birds that flew and came close.  There was the sighting of a turtle crossing the road and it reminded me of my friend, “B” The Turtle Girl.

There was a wonderful meeting of girl friends who love Jesus more than anything else in this whole wide world…and there was the meeting with my friend from Canada (she has many who call her friend), Ann Voskamp the author of “One Thousand Gifts”.

There were meals throughout the year with dear friends—most I claim as family. Those were special times of fellowship and most always growing in the Lord. 

One special morning—God paid us a visit in March at our daughter, Tiffany’s house when our youngest daughter, April and I went to spend some “daughter-sister” time—and special prayer time. 

Common Grounds.  What God started in January of this year still makes me ask Him, “why me?”  I am thankful for Vanessa and Angela—the 2/3 of this team that saw the need and had a vision from God to do “all we can” with all we have—for the rest of our days.

Common Grounds is a blessing and gift.  God has met us there in that place of surrender to Him—as we come to seek HIM and pray and read His word.  There’s no time for “food”—even though it has been provided each time---no one eats.  Except to partake of what Christ Jesus brings us through His word.

 

There was bird watching from my dear friend, Connie’s porch…and sharing God’s Word—and His heart for each believer…

Thank you Connie—for being that “persuader” for many that causes us to study God’s Word for ourselves—and then BELIEVE what His Word says!

 

 

There was my learning experience as a Camp Cook (helper to the awesome Camp Chef Donece---who taught me TONS in the kitchen this  year!)  That was QUITE a good experience!

 

 

 

These are ALL blessings—GIFTS that God laid over into my lap and heart—and many that I even may have missed—simply because I was “too busy”.

Family is the sweetest blessing…and I count my darling husband, Jeff—as my number one blessing from God.

Jeff lead an amazing group of people to Bolivia where we were able to do many things for Jesus.  I was blessed to witness first hand God at work in and through my sweet husband.

Jeff also lead two teams to north Alabama on Disaster Relief Missions.  I was unable to go on this trip—but heard countless testimonies of all that God did through the individuals while they were there as the “hands and feet of Christ”.

I am forever changed by the experiences of this year….and you only have seen a grain of what has happened in our lives.

I am forever grateful for God for all that He performed, all that He allowed—because through the hard things that was allowed—I saw His love and mercy extended—and I grew.

One delight—that completely amazed and stunned me—was the duck. There is a story about her, which I have shared in person—with bits and pieces on the blog—but that was a “God visit” day.  All over the place—and even thinking of the duck now, makes me shake my head in amazement and hot tears burn my throat.

We would be here all night if I kept going through the year.  I saw—and experienced some amazing things in my journey of my 49th year.  I can hardly imagine how God plans to top this coming year—

What have you seen—or experienced in 2011?  I hope you kept a journal.  Or some pictures to track your tracks….as you follow Christ until He comes.

I started to just list the section of Scripture that I wanted to share—but instead, I’m sharing the whole of it.  2 Corinthians 4.  The Lord used this passage to speak a special message to me in 2007…and He is still speaking.

2 Corinthians 4  ¹Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. ² Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God. ³ And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. ⁴ The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. ⁵ For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. ⁶ For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,”^[a] made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.

⁷ But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. ⁸ We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; ⁹ persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. ¹⁰ We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. ¹¹ For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may also be revealed in our mortal body. ¹² So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.

¹³ It is written: “I believed; therefore I have spoken.”^[b] Since we have that same spirit of^[c] faith, we also believe and therefore speak, ¹⁴ because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you to himself. ¹⁵ All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.

¹⁶ Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. ¹⁷ For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. ¹⁸ So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

New International Version (NIV)

Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica

All I can say….what’s next Lord?

I join countless others and say—I’m Yours.  Do what is best—and may You alone be glorified.

Giving HIM all.

Angie

Laced With Grace--Tuesday

Good morning!

Tuesday you can find me at Laced with Grace...all day long! ;)

I hope your week is going great!!  There are so many things going on right now--it is crazy busy for everyone!  Thank you for taking the time out to read! ;)  "A Party For A King"

Have a blessed week---MORE TO COME.

© The Knightly News 2007-2011

New LIFE—FRESH Determination

Many weeks ago (seems like last week), two couples from our Young Adult class took steps—to follow after Jesus.  I cannot express what happened to me that Sunday—it was only small compared to what I am certain happened in the lives of these two couples.

When I witnessed the expressions on the faces and heard the passion in their voices—I knew God had really impacted them in a way they (as well as us) would never forget. 

They were baptized IN HIM.  Walking away from the old ways of living, thinking and believing…taking instead a new fresh stance in their neighborhoods, their work places—and most of all in their families.  It has been costly for them in some ways—as it was for you….do you remember your decision to follow HIM?

I’m not sure who in the “blog-world” would ever think that living for Christ comes without paying a price…there is always a cost.  But the blessings of being adopted into the family of God—far outweighs anything we could have to pay or suffer through here.

So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children.  And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering. Romans 8:15-17 NLT

We have a great group of Young Adults—and there is a fresh fire stirring among them…and can I say the enemy is NOT happy about this in the least!  We’ve talked about what it takes to follow Him…

It takes everything you’ve got.  It takes determination to walk on—even when our family or friends go the opposite direction.  It takes studying God’s word to see how “Paul” made it through…It takes seeking GOD daily…even when time seems to squeeze everything OUT of us…. It takes digging into the well of forgiveness when you’ve been hurt—however it may have been.  Whether intentional—or accidental.  It takes forgiving….and walking away from the pain—but not the people. 

We rub shoulders with the world daily—and even in the checkout line we experience rudeness and behavior unbecoming a Christian…even when they “claim” to be a Christ follower.  What are we to do?  Well, as I’ve asked our class… “what would Jesus do?  How would He handle the situation?" 

For those who have been Christians for a long time, “we” should know to show compassion and love “no matter what”…but for those who are new in Christ—they will all need our prayers as they learn to walk this path of Life in His Light.  Prayer changes things…

Prayer changes things…but so does criticism.  Criticism causes discouragement, bitterness, broken heartedness and even sometimes giving up…. (If you have a new convert in your group or church, please don’t criticize….lovingly “show” by example and kind words and MUCH prayer, the Way.)

I love what I read in Oswald Chambers, “My Utmost for His Highest” earlier in the week:

“I am not being saved, I AM saved; salvation is as eternal as God’s throne; The thing for me to do is work OUT what God works in.  “Work out your own salvation,” I am responsible for doing it.  It means that I have to manifest IN THIS BODY the LIFE of the LORD Jesus, not mystically, but really and emphatically.   “I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection.”  Every saint can have his body under absolute control for God.  God has made us to have government over all the temple of the Holy Spirit, over imaginations and affections.  WE are responsible for these, and we must never give way to inordinate affections.”

There is no way to speak any more clear.  Oswald wrote with such passion and anointing—for “such a day as this”….these days we are living in…when everyone wants the living for Christ to be made “easy”.  

There is no easy route friend.  “It is what it is”.  The trek Jesus made up the hill to Golgotha was not easy…but it was necessary in order for you and I to be saved….the price had to be paid…the Sacrifice had to be made.  And He willingly gave all.

How can we expect to do less than the very Son of God?  We give what God requires…our all.

When you pray—pray for those in your neighborhoods and churches who are making these new decisions of walking with Jesus….the way of life is new and certain to have difficulties as they learn to lean on God and trust Him for everything…but I pray that those near you will be encouraged by your testimonies of faith and perseverance to follow HIM.  Leave a trail for others to follow.

Jeff and I are very proud of “our” new family (we claim all our Young Adults as “ours”), and all that God is beginning in their lives.  We pray for them as they lean on God and learn more each day of His LOVE.

I can’t wait to see what God does NEXT!!

 

© Angie Knight—The Knightly News~Giving Him All.  All rights reserved.

The First Day of the Last Month of 2011

With the rush of Thanksgiving week behind, as well as the Young Adult Retreat, the job beckoned....for a couple of days, then off to Mother and Grandbuddy's to care for really big dog and small black cat.  It is at this home I am clicking away at the keys in hopes that the internet service lasts long enough to get the job done. :)

There have been so many happenings in our lives of late--it would drive you nuts if I typed them all..suffice it to say, "we've been as busy as you have".

Life brings daily changes.  To all.  We are no exception.  I face the same daily battles and struggles as anyone else...I just have to determine ahead of time, "how to handle said battle".

My thoughts turned toward Christmas the day I put my tree up.  Not before.  We've really been too consumed with work and various other things to "think" ahead much.  On Sunday though, while others were napping, I decided it best to tackle the tree knowing I would be away for several days and wanted to come home to the job completed.
Getting out my ornaments, of course, took me back to the last couple of years.  I put all my special ornaments on the tree, leaving in the boxes those that came prepackaged, prearranged to go with certain color schemes.  In the "downsizing" of life (our choice), the tree nestles quaintly in a corner by the door of my kitchen.  It looks "made" for the spot.  I love it.  Who doesn't love sitting at a table drinking a cup of coffee with a pretty tree staring back?

As I tackled my tree, my mind went back to some precious faces, who are thought of by several friends of ours almost daily.  I began to wonder how they will celebrate the birth of our Savior?

How do you celebrate the birth of Jesus?  Do you gather with family and friends, digging into gifts wrapped prettily under a decorated tree?

Do you visit with friends that you have had very little time to see over the course of the past year?

Do you talk to the One who came from Heaven's glories and filled a manger with His flesh to bring you LIFE?

 While you are rushing to work and home again, keep in mind Whose constant eye is on you.

The One who came....the One who gave...
The One who died....the One who LIVES!

The One who will RETURN!

Let us not get bogged down in what to get "who" this year....instead, let's get our focus on what really matters....

Others.  How would Jesus spend Christmas this year? 

I'm just asking....food for thought.  But I bet (if I were a "better") that He would want to spend Christmas with just "you". 

I want to do something different next year with the blog....

I welcome your thoughts and ideas....(I have a few of my own...but your thoughts really matter to me!)  So.....post me a note, or send me an e-mail!

© The Knightly News 2007-2011

Band Of Brothers On A Mission

I have said several times—either here online—or when speaking –

“You are one of two things—IF you are a believer in Christ….”

According to Matthew 28:19-20, “You are either a Missionary—or a Mission Project.” 

I now know what it feels like to be both.  Being a missionary is incredible.  To share the love and mission of our Lord Jesus Christ with others is a feeling like no other!  Jesus said to the eleven disciples standing with Him, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”   He gave them their marching orders. 

Question for you:  If  you are going to leave your job—and it is your job to train your replacement—don’t you want them to know everything in order to succeed at the work ahead?  And if they leave after you—won’t they do the same?  And the next person the same?

That’s what Jesus did.  HE gave the instructions for EACH OF US…to be handed down through time until HE RETURNS.  So---what are you doing?

Let me tell you how we became a mission project.

We moved to a cute little house on the camp grounds…and it rained on the day we were moving in…which was really a blessing…because we discovered the roof leaked.  And a few days later it rained again.  And it leaked again.

HOWEVER, there is a “Band of Brothers” that Jeff has been BLESSED to be a part of ever since God laid it on the heart of Guy Tatum to begin a “men’s prayer group” at church.  (Marianna First AG). 

The prayer group is open to any man—of any age who wants to band together with other men and pray and grow in God.  I have witnessed the changes in the men of this prayer group as they “truly” band together and form a team of awesome encouragers in their faith and love for the LORD!

They showed up at our house this morning before the sun had set the trees on fire with it’s brilliance!  It was a gorgeous day—windy for being on a roof, but these guys didn’t mind –and there was not one complaint about the chill in the air! (Not that I heard anyway!)

Click on the pictures and see all that the LORD did through the giving hearts and working hands of these awesome guys!

		Band Of Brothers VIEW SLIDE SHOW DOWNLOAD ALL

Thank you Guy for following the call of God to lead this “Band of Brothers” into a higher place in Christ—and into the “Mission Field” of life!

Not a hammer was picked up until they gathered in prayer.

At break time—I stepped outside to snap a few pictures of them and heard them discussing their morning’s Bible reading.  Guy challenges them to each read the Bible through –and he supplied them all with the NLT Version of the “Bible in a Year”.

We are not the first mission project these guys have taken on—and I’m sure we won’t be the last! 

The West Florida District is extremely grateful for their hearts of love and labor today as they roofed not only our house, but a storage building as well!

Guys—, we could never thank you enough!  What a blessing you have been to us and the District!  We love you all!

 

© Angie Knight—The Knightly News-Giving Him All.  All rights reserved.

Part Two of “Jeff’s Blog: What About My Sheep?

WHAT ABOUT MY SHEEP?

I can’t get away from that question. It’s easy when someone in our immediate family needs something. When my grandson needed me even a man with a gun could not stop me from rescuing him, but what about the sheep.

In the last blog I realized I said the two men were shooting the sheep, they were loading live sheep also, and there were dead and alive sheep on the train. (Sorry).

I shared this dream with our Young Adult Class last night.

One question asked was, “where was the train going?” If you remember the train is what the enemy working so hard to fill. The train is on its way to Hell, (no need to try to sugar coat it, I think we have tried to sugar coat long enough).

I wonder how many are on that train because of me? I told my class some time ago and again last night, “I am afraid when I stand before God I am going to be sorrier for the things I didn’t do than the things I did.”

Matthew 25:42-45 “For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink:  I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.  Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?  Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.” (KJV)

How many are on that train that I could have rescued?

All the “could haves, should haves, and would haves, aren’t so important now.

I think the more important question is— “how many are on that train today that I can rescue?” Yesterday is gone, the opportunity you had yesterday, last week, and last year is gone. As the old saying don’t cry over spilled milk. 

So you messed up. 

You missed the opportunity.

Don’t wallow around in it. Get up—dust off your pants, shake the dust from your feet and learn from it and don’t let it happen again.

Today is a new day. Take a deep breath.   Come on breathe in real big.  Now breathe out.

God gives you the breath of life, he woke you up this morning and gave you another day of life, don’t waste it.

How many lives will we affect today? I pray we affect them in a positive way.  Someone needs to hear a kind word—someone needs someone to listen to them.  Someone needs to hear,  “I love you”.  And there is someone who only needs to see your smile!

WHAT ABOUT HIS SHEEP?     Lead them.       Show them where LIFE can be found.

 

© Jeff W. Knight—The Knightly News—Giving Him All.  All rights reserved.

A Jeff Blog: “What About My Sheep?”

I looked out my window and saw a 6 point buck walking across the front yard and into the woods; I grabbed a bow and arrows and quickly ran after him.

As I entered the woods I saw him some 20 yards away, and realized all I had on was my boxers shorts and a T-shirt, but my attention was on the buck so I took my bow (which seemed so small for some reason), and as I put my arrow in I realized my arrow was so short I couldn’t pull back the bow string.

All of a sudden, as if the woods opened up, I saw houses and businesses all around. I quickly ran back into the woods for cover, not wanting any one to see me in my boxers. I headed back to the safety of my house, but as I exited I could see my house and my grandson playing in the yard.  

As I got closer to the yard I saw sheep walking toward me, they were laughing at me in my boxers, my little bow and my short arrows.

As the sheep passed me I turned to see where they were going, and out of nowhere a vehicle as long as a train pulled up and starting shooting the sheep and loading them into the train, I ran for the house to safety but once inside I realized—where is my grandson?   

I looked out the window and saw the men putting him in the train. Without hesitation I ran after the train, I finally got it stopped, I snatch open the door and pull the driver out and slammed him onto the ground, he shatters like glass. 

I start to climb into the train and realize the other man has a gun; I quickly retreat, but then think about my grandson and climb back up—pulling the man with the gun out and slam him to the ground. He shatters like glass just as the first man.  I get my grandson out of the train and start for home.

I woke up and thought what a crazy dream, and went back to sleep.

The next morning I did my usual routine, brush my teeth, made coffee, read my devotion and prayed.

I began to think about Sunday’s service, the anointing was so strong and powerful, the preaching was the best I ever heard Pastor Dallas preach. It was the best because it was for me.   It was if God had a talked with Pastor Dallas and told him all about me.

While reflecting on Sunday’s services, the Holy Spirit reminded me of the dream last night.  I first though how crazy it was, and the Spirit spoke to my heart and said, “it was for you”. My first response was, “WHAT??”  “I don’t even know what that dream means”.

The Spirit spoke so soft to my heart, “Do you want to know?”

I began to pray and to seek what the Lord was trying to say, and all day long he revealed small pieces at a time as though I couldn’t handle it all at one time.

• The 6 point buck was a distraction. You get up you read, you pray, you go about your day and are so easily distracted by the things the enemy puts before you.
• You’re in T shirt and boxers because you don’t put on the whole armor of God.
• The little bow is how much you really read Gods word.
• The short arrows are your Prayer life.
• The Sheep are the people you pass by every day.
• The two men are the enemy that leads so many astray, some even to death.
• The train is what the enemy is working so hard to fill.
• The driver is the obstacle you face and overcome every day.
• The man with the gun is the obstacles you are afraid to face.
• You overcome the fear when your grandson is involved.
  

BUT WHAT ABOUT MY SHEEP?

Thank YOU Jeff for such an amazing—timely message!

Let us all realize what is going on in our lives—and get a grip on the altar as never before!

 

© Jeff W. Knight—Angie Knight, 2011 The Knightly News-Giving Him All.  All rights reserved.

Life Updates and God’s Blessings!

I know…it’s been a while since we last talked.  If you had been here though—I would have talked your EAR off!  (Just ask Jeff.)

We have been busy with the many changes in our lives—all exciting ones!  (The things that cause a bit of stress…keeps us on our knees!)

We have moved—not far though—still on the camp grounds!  This is one of God’s blessings.  I had been wanting to downsize…and really feeling the “need” to do so…but needed the incentive—and a little nudge.  When our life long friends/former home pastor, Rev. Tommy Moore was elected as our new Superintendent, God granted us the opportunity! They now live in our little house and we moved to another little house!  They both say, “it feels like home”.  Mine does to me too.  This was a very sweet blessing from the LORD!

I will send our address out to those of you who have had it in the past---and if you want it

Other Changes:

• The house phone is turned OFF.  Why have one when it’s never used?
• No TV nor cable at this house.  (Again, this is a blessing in disguise—I am not positive that it is given it’s proper recognition by all) (grinning here)
• MANY things that fit in the other house does not fit here—that means MANY things will be up for sale at the November 12 Yard Sale for Missions (here at the camp grounds)  (This is another blessing—I mean—how much stuff do you really NEED?)
• I am excited to work with Rese Moore, our Women’s Ministry Director and be involved in Section 7’s Women’s Ministry as their representative!  I can’t wait to get started (If you are from Section 7 and are reading this—you know what a busy time we’ve had lately, please forgive)
• Common Grounds is GROWING.  We had Betty Shoopman with us in October—and had an AMAZING time! If you want an amazing woman of God—I encourage you to contact Betty for your next retreat—or a special Church service! (Picture at the bottom)
• I am still writing for Street Talk Magazine and Kelley Ward does an amazing job editing and publishing this free magazine! 
• I am headed to Cambodia in March 2012 (If God continues to lead and direct) with Mission of Mercy –and now, along with Becky, Vanessa, Rene, Nikki, and Jamie!  YAY!
• Jeff is working on the next mission trip for our church—stateside and foreign.
• Jeff and I have been really enjoying teaching our Young Adult Class—“C-4"—Called-Chosen-Committed-Children of God” on Wednesday night! They are an awesome BUNCH!
• Jeff has been extremely busy—but is enjoying all the excitement in the air around this place!  We look forward to what God has in store!
• Scooter seems pretty excited to be here (he would be hurt if I didn’t mention him)

Pictures will come soon—I’ve really been too busy to take any! 

I will be speaking at Carmel A/G Women’s Tea in November—if you think of  me—pray as I am seeking God for the message to bring to those awesome ladies!  (That is my home!)

Okay, I am hugging you all from here. (((hugs))).  My dear sweet friend, Lynn Donovan taught me that one.

We will get back to some devotions and Bible Study soon!

The above pictures are from our Common Grounds meeting in October.  What an amazing lesson on TRUSTING GOD she brought!  Thank YOU Betty for your obedient and kind heart!  I love you!!!  Susan Baldwin, Women’s Ministry Leader of Marianna First AG will be our special speaker on November 17—YOU don’t want to miss this!  I had a “sneak peek” at the message God has been pouring into her heart and life—YOU will be blessed!!

That’s all for tonight—there are probably MANY things I’m leaving out…but I’m tired ;) So—goodnight—and THANK YOU for all those who sign up to get this little spot of blog news in your inbox!

Giving Him ALL,

Angie

© Angie Knight 2011 The Knight News-Giving Him All.  All rights reserved.