Heyy

We all have different lives, and this blog is revealing some of mine :) enjoy!

God bless

Saturday, July 30, 2011

My Child

This is a gorgeous poem that has been written, taken from various bible verses... it is written as a letter from God. God may not have said these words in this order, but He still said these words, and I think it is written beautifully. It is very clever. Enjoy it, and may it be a reminder to you, that you are His child!


My Child,

You may not know me,
but I know everything about you.

Psalm 139:1
I know when you sit down and when you rise up.
Psalm 139:2
I am familiar with all your ways.
Psalm 139:3
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered.
Matthew 10:29-31
For you were made in my image.
Genesis 1:27
In me you live and move and have your being.
Acts 17:28
For you are my offspring.
Acts 17:28
I knew you even before you were conceived.
Jeremiah 1:4-5
I chose you when I planned creation.
Ephesians 1:11-12
You were not a mistake,
for all your days are written in my book.

Psalm 139:15-16
I determined the exact time of your birth
and where you would live.

Acts 17:26
You are fearfully and wonderfully made.
Psalm 139:14
I knit you together in your mother's womb.
Psalm 139:13
And brought you forth on the day you were born.
Psalm 71:6
I have been misrepresented
by those who don't know me.

John 8:41-44
I am not distant and angry,
but am the complete expression of love.

1 John 4:16
And it is my desire to lavish my love on you.
1 John 3:1
Simply because you are my child
and I am your Father.

1 John 3:1
I offer you more than your earthly father ever could.
Matthew 7:11
For I am the perfect father.
Matthew 5:48
Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand.
James 1:17
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs.
Matthew 6:31-33
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope.
Jeremiah 29:11
Because I love you with an everlasting love.
Jeremiah 31:3
My thoughts toward you are countless
as the sand on the seashore.

Psalms 139:17-18
And I rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17
I will never stop doing good to you.
Jeremiah 32:40
For you are my treasured possession.
Exodus 19:5
I desire to establish you
with all my heart and all my soul.

Jeremiah 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvelous things.
Jeremiah 33:3
If you seek me with all your heart,
you will find me.

Deuteronomy 4:29
Delight in me and I will give you
the desires of your heart.

Psalm 37:4
For it is I who gave you those desires.
Philippians 2:13
I am able to do more for you
than you could possibly imagine.

Ephesians 3:20
For I am your greatest encourager.
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
I am also the Father who comforts you
in all your troubles.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4
When you are brokenhearted,
I am close to you.

Psalm 34:18
As a shepherd carries a lamb,
I have carried you close to my heart.

Isaiah 40:11
One day I will wipe away
every tear from your eyes.

Revelation 21:3-4
And I'll take away all the pain
you have suffered on this earth.

Revelation 21:3-4
I am your Father, and I love you
even as I love my son, Jesus.

John 17:23
For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed.
John 17:26
He is the exact representation of my being.
Hebrews 1:3
He came to demonstrate that I am for you,
not against you.

Romans 8:31
And to tell you that I am not counting your sins.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19
Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19
His death was the ultimate expression
of my love for you.

1 John 4:10
I gave up everything I loved
that I might gain your love.

Romans 8:31-32
If you receive the gift of my son Jesus,
you receive me.

1 John 2:23
And nothing will ever separate you
from my love again.

Romans 8:38-39
Come home and I'll throw the biggest party
heaven has ever seen.

Luke 15:7
I have always been Father,
and will always be Father.

Ephesians 3:14-15
My question is…
Will you be my child?

John 1:12-13
                                                                 I am waiting for you.
                                                                       Luke 15:11-32


                                                                Love, Your Dad
                                                    
Almighty God

Psalm 40

For the director of music. Of David. A psalm.
1 I waited patiently for the Lord;
he turned to me and heard my cry.

2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.

3 He put a new song in my mouth,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear the Lord
and put their trust in him.

4 Blessed is the one
who trusts in the Lord,
who does not look to the proud,
to those who turn aside to false gods.

5 Many, Lord my God,
are the wonders you have done,
the things you planned for us.
None can compare with you;
were I to speak and tell of your deeds,
they would be too many to declare.

6 Sacrifice and offering you did not desire—
but my ears you have opened
burnt offerings and sin offeringst you did not require.

7 Then I said, "Here I am, I have come—
it is written about me in the scroll.

8 I desire to do your will, my God;
your law is within my heart."

9 I proclaim your saving acts in the great assembly;
I do not seal my lips, Lord,
as you know.

10 I do not hide your righteousness in my heart;
I speak of your faithfulness and your saving help.
I do not conceal your love and your faithfulness
from the great assembly.

11 Do not withhold your mercy from me, Lord;
may your love and faithfulness always protect me.

12 For troubles without number surround me;
my sins have overtaken me, and I cannot see.
They are more than the hairs of my head,
and my heart fails within me.

13 Be pleased to save me, Lord;
come quickly, Lord, to help me.

14 May all who want to take my life
be put to shame and confusion;
may all who desire my ruin
be turned back in disgrace.

15 May those who say to me, "Aha! Aha!"
be appalled at their own shame.

16 But may all who seek you
rejoice and be glad in you;
may those who long for your saving help always say,
"The Lord is great!"

17 But as for me, I am poor and needy;
may the Lord think of me.
You are my help and my deliverer;
you are my God, do not delay.


I haven't read my Psalms for a while, but I am glad I am reading this one now! There have been a few times where I have missed a few days in bible readings, but when I do eventually get back to it, It is the perfect message for me. It is like I have delayed my reading, and I come back to reading and It suddenly says something that pops out to me, and it relates to something I have been trying to deal with, and encourages me.
This Psalm is very encouraging... and it reminds me of what God has been doing in my life lately. It also reminds me that I should praise Him more. I haven't been doing much of that lately. I need to get back on track with Him, and live for Him, not myself. 


Watch this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VgVMJHc58I0&feature=related  "And I'll stop this pretending that I can somehow deserve what I already have"


God bless
Love -E- xx

Job interview!

On Thursday I sent out my resume and cover letters in the mail to Wilston C&K and Mother Duck Enoggera.... I also applied online on Seek to Mother Duck Gaythorne, and Mitchelton Childcare Centre.... I applied hoping that I would be able to have an interview soon, but I wasn't expecting it..... Anyways, about two hours after applying on Seek, I got a phone call from Mitchelton Childcare! They want me to come in on Monday for an interview, and then they want me to come in on Tuesday and Wednesday for paid trial days! I am so excited! I had been really worrying about not being able to go to SMASH camp, because I didn't have enough money... But God provided! Even if I don't get the job, I should have enough money from the two trial days to go to SMASH. He is so amazing. Obviously I want the job... but just the fact that God has provided me with this opportunity is wonderful.
I am only a little bit nervous about the interview... but I know I am going to feel under a lot of pressure on the trial days. Whatever is God's will is His will. If He wants me at this childcare centre I will be thrilled... If he doesn't then so be it. I really want to serve Him where He wants me, and He has already provided. I just can't believe it!
I would love some prayer!
May God bless you and provide for you, as He has for me.

Love -E- xx

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Interior Design

I have become quite obsessed with Interior Designs in houses.. Must be all of the Renovation shows on lately. I really like the block. I love seeing all the results.  
                                                   
                                          I would love a lounge room like this>>>                                                             
Very cute... The rainbow stripes make it so amazing, it is very me!





                                         Making use of space>>>
          It is nice and fancy. The stair case is gorgeous! I also like the lighting and the posh colours.









                                        My type of bedroom>>>>
The Flower picture is amazing, and the colours tie in well... The only thing I don't like is the light shade.







There are so many more... Some are too weird or ugly, but there are some really good ones too.
This following website has gotten me rather excited....

http://homeinteriordesignideas.org/  

I can not wait to decorate my own house. Furnature and selecting colours and stuff sounds so fun :)

God bless
Love -E- xxxxx

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Brooke Fraser

I officially really really like Brooke Fraser... I just realized how much her music, is my type of music. She is a christian, she sings and write amazing christian music, as well as other alternative music. She is gorgeous! I love the heart she has for God and music. I really like listening to the words and the music. Here are some YouTube clips.
Desert song  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adnygYiH0YI&feature=related
Soon ://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5sypIy52dw
Lifeline  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UU0PnO3_mtU
Hosanna http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mjXbx_4oIn4
Savior King http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1764I6JOmLI
You'll come http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDDdFlVvfwE
Lead me to the cross http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdq9Q8wJdjc&feature=related
Something in the water http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u5C-YHSy3Fw
Shadowfeet http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4KiGN1j1No&feature=related
Without you http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VV1q4LPJRRs&feature=related
Here's to you http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y64sGLIV37Q&feature=artist

And there are many more... but it is 1:14 in the morning, so I should probably go to bed!
Anyways... God bless you all.

Xoxo Love E (me)

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

What a pain!

Sooo I went to the doctors yesterday about my ridiculous sore back. I let him know that it is mostly the left side of my lower back that is sore, and he checked it out... I also told him about the odd loose jelly-like lumps in my back, and apparently it is fat (so he presumes) but it seems weird, Mum agrees with me... Anyway so then I told him how my ankle feels odd to walk on, and ever since I went to the doctors when I was sick and my back was in agony about a month ago, my ankle has been getting shooting pains. Unfortunately the doctor didn't pay any attention to it at all..... He ended up telling me to get an Xray of my whole back, and he said if there is nothing wrong there, then I should go back to Physio. I have had Physio on my shoulders before, but not on my back.... If Physio doesn't work, then I am getting an MRI.....  So now I have had my Xrays done, I am waiting, but it is likely that the doctor won't ring me up unless there is something seriously wrong. I had a look at the Xrays, and I have spotted the mild Scoliosis, which I already knew I had when I had an Xray about 2 years ago. The only possible weird thing I sore was that my left hip (which is my sore side) is bigger than my other, but it is probably because of the angle or something. I dunno.
This whole pain thing is frustrating. I just want to know what it is. I can't sit down for too long, I can't stand up for too long... lying down is the best, but obviously I can't lie down all day, and obviously it would also hurt if I did so! I can't win.
With all of my emotional troubles lately, I really don't need this. I am sick of being sore and uncomfortable. I'm not sure if the physio will fix anything... but I guess I gotta give it a go *sigh*.
I just want to be happy and healthy again.

Blessings,
Love, me xx

Monday, July 25, 2011

Psalm 39

For the director of music. For Jeduthun. A psalm of David.
1 I said, "I will watch my ways
and keep my tongue from sin;
I will put a muzzle on my mouth
while in the presence of the wicked."

2 So I remained utterly silent,
not even saying anything good.
But my anguish increased;

3 my heart grew hot within me.
While I meditated, the fire burned;
then I spoke with my tongue:

4 "Show me, Lord, my life's end
and the number of my days;
let me know how fleeting my life is.

5 You have made my days a mere hand breadth;
the span of my years is as nothing before you.
Everyone is but a breath,
even those who seem secure.t

6 "Surely everyone goes around like a mere phantom;
in vain they rush about, heaping up wealth
without knowing whose it will finally be.

7 "But now, Lord, what do I look for?
My hope is in you.

8 Save me from all my transgressions;
do not make me the scorn of fools.

9 I was silent; I would not open my mouth,
for you are the one who has done this.

10 Remove your scourge from me;
I am overcome by the blow of your hand.

11 When you rebuke and discipline anyone for their sin,
you consume their wealth like a moth—
surely everyone is but a breath.

12 "Hear my prayer, Lord,
listen to my cry for help;
do not be deaf to my weeping.
I dwell with you as a foreigner,
a stranger, as all my ancestors were.

13 Look away from me, that I may enjoy life again
before I depart and am no more.



I particularly like verse 7 "But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you." I think it is true to us all... The world is looking for hope of survival, a hope of living!... Unfortunately most of the world isn't looking for hope through God and Jesus... They are our only hope of living, but not many look for hope there. I guess all we can do when our faith is rejected, is pray for the people who reject it!

I also like the passion in verse 12 "Hear my prayer, Lord, listen to my cry for help; do not be deaf to my weeping..." Dave is literally crying for help, as he asks God not to be deaf to his weeping. He is begging, and weeping, and hoping that God will listen. I think that God always listens, but I do relate to Dave when he says to God "do not be deaf", sometimes it feels like God isn't around, when everything is bad is happening.... All good though He is our hope!

God bless
Love, me xxx

Friday, July 22, 2011

Oh Lord You're Beautiful

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQ3lvN4tQmY



Oh Lord, you're beautiful,

Your face is all I seek,

For when your eyes are on this child,

Your grace abounds to me.


Oh Lord, you're beautiful,

Your face is all I seek,

For when your eyes are on this child,

Your grace abounds to me.


I want to take your word and shine it all around.

But first help me just to live it Lord.

And when I'm doing well, help me to never seek a crown.

For my reward is giving glory to you.


Oh Lord, please light the fire,

That once burned bright and clear.

Replace the lamp of my first love,

That burns with Holy fear.


I want to take your word and shine it all around.

But first help me just to live it Lord.

And when I'm doing well, help me to never seek a crown.

For my reward is giving glory to you.


Oh Lord, you're beautiful,

Your face is all I seek,

For when your eyes are on this child,

Your grace abounds to me.

Oh Lord, you're beautiful,

Your face is all I seek,

For when your eyes are on this child,

Your grace abounds to me.




God bless
Love, me xx

Psalm 38

A psalm of David. A petition.
1 Lord, do not rebuke me in your anger
or discipline me in your wrath.

2 Your arrows have pierced me,
and your hand has come down on me.

3 Because of your wrath there is no health in my body;
there is no soundness in my bones because of my sin.

4 My guilt has overwhelmed me
like a burden too heavy to bear.

5 My wounds fester and are loathsome
because of my sinful folly.

6 I am bowed down and brought very low;
all day long I go about mourning.

7 My back is filled with searing pain;
there is no health in my body.

8 I am feeble and utterly crushed;
I groan in anguish of heart.

9 All my longings lie open before you, Lord;
my sighing is not hidden from you.

10 My heart pounds, my strength fails me;
even the light has gone from my eyes.

11 My friends and companions avoid me because of my wounds;
my neighbors stay far away.

12 Those who want to kill me set their traps,
those who would harm me talk of my ruin;
all day long they scheme and lie.

13 I am like the deaf, who cannot hear,
like the mute, who cannot speak;

14 I have become like one who does not hear,
whose mouth can offer no reply.

15 Lord, I wait for you;
you will answer, Lord my God.

16 For I said, "Do not let them gloat
or exalt themselves over me when my feet slip."

17 For I am about to fall,
and my pain is ever with me.

18 I confess my iniquity;
I am troubled by my sin.

19 Many have become my enemies without cause;
those who hate me without reason are numerous.

20 Those who repay my good with evil
lodge accusations against me,
though I seek only to do what is good.

21 Lord, do not forsake me;
do not be far from me, my God.

22 Come quickly to help me,
my Lord and my Savior.

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Can something please go right?

I have a lot to be thankful for, there is no mistake there... but sometimes it feels like everything is going so wrong. I am quite a mess and I am actually starting to find it funny. First I was rather confused about what was happening... then I found out a lot, so it made me sad and angry for a long time... and now I am laughing. I am upset yes, but it is slightly funny that I am so messed up.
I have had back problems since mid primary school, and a lot of joint problems... Now my left side of my lower back is really sore, and it is sort of reaching my hip and leg too. I get striking pains all the time in various parts of my body. I feel like I can't put any pressure on my left ankle, and it also has been recently hurting. These are the least of my worries. I am full of emotional confusion and pain, and I don't know where to go.
I'm 19 and all this is happening! Yay for being an unusual 19 year old!

love, me xx

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Application

I have put in my first application for a childcare center! I am much more motivated this week then I was last week, and I owe it to Lorelle, who motivated me!  I have no choice, but to find a job... if I stayed in bed all day, I would become lazy, and there would be no point to life! I need to get out of bed and try to convince myself that I am capable of getting a job and becoming an Early Childhood Educator. I have a passion for children, and I'm not going to waste it. Besides that, I need money so that I can go to SMASH camp and so I can pay my parents back, and begin my life.

The childcare center that I applied for is quite posh. I'm not sure If I will fit in there, but apparently two ladies from my church go there, so it can't be that bad!
Here is the link http://habitatkids.com.au/
I also put in a job query at this center http://esvc000141.wic054u.server-web.com/enoggera.html 
I like both of these center's Philosophy's... I'm hoping one of them has a vacant position!

Anyways, so it looks like things might be looking up. I hope so anyway! Tomorrow I will be doing a CPR course with my friend Zoe.... so I should be all set to attend interviews. 

Despite the fact that things are looking up, I could still do with a lot of prayer about this... I have never had a paid job in my life, and I have never attended a real interview. I need a bit more confidence, and I could do with some guidance in applying for the right centers.

God bless
Love -E- xx

Psalm 37

Of David.
1 Do not fret because of those who are evil
or be envious of those who do wrong;

2 for like the grass they will soon wither,
like green plants they will soon die away.

3 Trust in the Lord and do good;
dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.

4 Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.

5 Commit your way to the Lord;
trust in him and he will do this:

6 He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn,
your vindication like the noonday sun.

7 Be still before the Lord
and wait patiently for him;
do not fret when people succeed in their ways,
when they carry out their wicked schemes.

8 Refrain from anger and turn from wrath;
do not fret—it leads only to evil.

9 For those who are evil will be destroyed,
but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.

10 A little while, and the wicked will be no more;
though you look for them, they will not be found.

11 But the meek will inherit the land
and enjoy peace and prosperity.

12 The wicked plot against the righteous
and gnash their teeth at them;

13 but the Lord laughs at the wicked,
for he knows their day is coming.

14 The wicked draw the sword
and bend the bow
to bring down the poor and needy,
to slay those whose ways are upright.

15 But their swords will pierce their own hearts,
and their bows will be broken.

16 Better the little that the righteous have
than the wealth of many wicked;

17 for the power of the wicked will be broken,
but the Lord upholds the righteous.

18 The blameless spend their days under the Lord's care,
and their inheritance will endure forever.

19 In times of disaster they will not wither;
in days of famine they will enjoy plenty.

20 But the wicked will perish:
Though the Lord's enemies are like the flowers of the field,
they will be consumed, they will go up in smoke.

21 The wicked borrow and do not repay,
but the righteous give generously;

22 those the Lord blesses will inherit the land,
but those he curses will be destroyed.

23 The Lord makes firm the steps
of the one who delights in him;

24 though he may stumble, he will not fall,
for the Lord upholds him with his hand.

25 I was young and now I am old,
yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken
or their children begging bread.

26 They are always generous and lend freely;
their children will be a blessing.t

27 Turn from evil and do good;
then you will dwell in the land forever.

28 For the Lord loves the just
and will not forsake his faithful ones.
Wrongdoers will be completely destroyed
the offspring of the wicked will perish.

29 The righteous will inherit the land
and dwell in it forever.

30 The mouths of the righteous utter wisdom,
and their tongues speak what is just.

31 The law of their God is in their hearts;
their feet do not slip.

32 The wicked lie in wait for the righteous,
intent on putting them to death;

33 but the Lord will not leave them in the power of the wicked
or let them be condemned when brought to trial.

34 Hope in the Lord
and keep his way.
He will exalt you to inherit the land;
when the wicked are destroyed, you will see it.

35 I have seen a wicked and ruthless man
flourishing like a luxuriant native tree,

36 but he soon passed away and was no more;
though I looked for him, he could not be found.

37 Consider the blameless, observe the upright;
a future awaits those who seek peace.t

38 But all sinners will be destroyed;
there will be no future for the wicked.

39 The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord;
he is their stronghold in time of trouble.

40 The Lord helps them and delivers them;
he delivers them from the wicked and saves them,
because they take refuge in him.


I'll just say it plainly, don't follow the wicked... they have no future but death! Follow God :)

God bless
Love -E-

Monday, July 18, 2011

Psalm 36

For the director of music. Of David the servant of the
1 I have a message from God in my heart
concerning the sinfulness of the wicked:
There is no fear of God
before their eyes.

2 In their own eyes they flatter themselves
too much to detect or hate their sin.

3 The words of their mouths are wicked and deceitful;
they fail to act wisely or do good.

4 Even on their beds they plot evil;
they commit themselves to a sinful course
and do not reject what is wrong.

5 Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the skies.

6 Your righteousness is like the highest mountains,
your justice like the great deep.
You, Lord, preserve both people and animals.

7 How priceless is your unfailing love, O God!
People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.

8 They feast on the abundance of your house;
you give them drink from your river of delights.

9 For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light we see light.

10 Continue your love to those who know you,
your righteousness to the upright in heart.

11 May the foot of the proud not come against me,
nor the hand of the wicked drive me away.

12 See how the evildoers lie fallen—
thrown down, not able to rise!


Third day wrote a song about verse 5 and 6. The verse says " Your Love oh lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness streches to the sky. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice flows like the ocean tide" It gives me a picture of how big God is and how far he stretches! It makes me wonder, how on earth someone so big, could love someone so little! 

God bless
Love, Me

Saturday, July 16, 2011

Young tallent!

I am addicted to young talent. I love watching little ones, sing so strongly. Big fan on Connie, and a bunch of others. My favorite at the moment is Kaitlyn Knippers I spotted her on youtube, where she sings bleeding love
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oc2Zogq7GjI&playnext=1&list=PL7552BEB662DF5E10

There were a few off notes, but her voice is incredibly amazing and strong. So I went onto her website:
http://www.kaitlynk.com/
... and now she has her own songs and albums and stuff, and is a tad bit older. I then went onto her facebook, and found out that she is a christian :)

I love young talent, big fan of Kaitlyn now!

Love -E- xxxx

Psalm 35

Of David.
1 Contend, Lord, with those who contend with me;
fight against those who fight against me.

2 Take up shield and armor;
arise and come to my aid.

3 Brandish spear and javelin
against those who pursue me.
Say to me,
"I am your salvation."

4 May those who seek my life
be disgraced and put to shame;
may those who plot my ruin
be turned back in dismay.

5 May they be like chaff before the wind,
with the angel of the Lord driving them away;

6 may their path be dark and slippery,
with the angel of the Lord pursuing them.

7 Since they hid their net for me without cause
and without cause dug a pit for me,

8 may ruin overtake them by surprise—
may the net they hid entangle them,
may they fall into the pit, to their ruin.

9 Then my soul will rejoice in the Lord
and delight in his salvation.

10 My whole being will exclaim,
"Who is like you, Lord?
You rescue the poor from those too strong for them,
the poor and needy from those who rob them."

11 Ruthless witnesses come forward;
they question me on things I know nothing about.

12 They repay me evil for good
and leave me like one bereaved.

13 Yet when they were ill, I put on sackcloth
and humbled myself with fasting.
When my prayers returned to me unanswered,

14 I went about mourning
as though for my friend or brother.
I bowed my head in grief
as though weeping for my mother.

15 But when I stumbled, they gathered in glee;
assailants gathered against me without my knowledge.
They slandered me without ceasing.

16 Like the ungodly they maliciously mocked;
they gnashed their teeth at me.

17 How long, Lord, will you look on?
Rescue me from their ravages,
my precious life from these lions.

18 I will give you thanks in the great assembly;
among the throngs I will praise you.

19 Do not let those gloat over me
who are my enemies without cause;
do not let those who hate me without reason
maliciously wink the eye.

20 They do not speak peaceably,
but devise false accusations
against those who live quietly in the land.

21 They sneer at me and say, "Aha! Aha!
With our own eyes we have seen it."

22 Lord, you have seen this; do not be silent.
Do not be far from me, Lord.

23 Awake, and rise to my defense!
Contend for me, my God and Lord.

24 Vindicate me in your righteousness, Lord my God;
do not let them gloat over me.

25 Do not let them think, "Aha, just what we wanted!"
or say, "We have swallowed him up."

26 May all who gloat over my distress
be put to shame and confusion;
may all who exalt themselves over me
be clothed with shame and disgrace.

27 May those who delight in my vindication
shout for joy and gladness;
may they always say, "The Lord be exalted,
who delights in the well-being of his servant."

28 My tongue will proclaim your righteousness,
your praises all day long.


There have been many times where people have told my secrets to others behind my back and planned to gang up on me... my closest friends have done it. I also had bullies in primary school, who would come up with crazy plans to make me feel terrible, so that they would feel good. My teacher in grade 5 always sat at a group table with two boys who bullied me...I was put there because I was a good girl and I was a role model... what the teacher didn't see is an innocent and scared to stick up for myself girl. I was stuck with these boys all year, and I was scared of  them so I faked sick all the time. It wasn't fun. 
My point is I was conspired against... obviously not to the same degree as Dave, but I had no choice but to pray and beg God for help, because I was going through a rough time. I wanted these boys out of my way, and I wanted them punished. Well God helped me out after I prayed... One boy moved out of the city, and although the other was in my class the next year, he was much nicer, and he ended up with a crush on me! I had a boyfriend, so nothing happened with him, but yeh. God is amazing isn't He?... He is salvation.


Blessings,
Love, me xx


God bless

Friday, July 15, 2011

Psalm 34

Of David. When he pretended to be insane before Abimelek, who drove him away, and he left.
1  I will extol the Lord at all times;
his praise will always be on my lips.

2 I will glory in the Lord;
let the afflicted hear and rejoice.

3 Glorify the Lord with me;
let us exalt his name together.

4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.

5 Those who look to him are radiant;
their faces are never covered with shame.

6 This poor man called, and the Lord heard him;
he saved him out of all his troubles.

7 The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him,
and he delivers them.

8 Taste and see that the Lord is good;
blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.

9 Fear the Lord, you his holy people,
for those who fear him lack nothing.

10 The lions may grow weak and hungry,
but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.

11 Come, my children, listen to me;
I will teach you the fear of the Lord.

12 Whoever of you loves life
and desires to see many good days,

13 keep your tongue from evil
and your lips from telling lies.

14 Turn from evil and do good;
seek peace and pursue it.

15 The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
and his ears are attentive to their cry;

16 but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil,
to blot out their name from the earth.

17 The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them;
he delivers them from all their troubles.

18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

19 The righteous person may have many troubles,
but the Lord delivers him from them all;

20 he protects all his bones,
not one of them will be broken.

21 Evil will slay the wicked;
the foes of the righteous will be condemned.

22 The Lord will rescue his servants;
no one who takes refuge in him will be condemned.



I don't know if you took any notice in the top bit in italics :
Of David. When he pretended to be insane before Abimelek, who drove him away, and he left.

It actually made me laugh. If I were to read this Psalm without reading the top bit, I wouldn't have guessed that it was after Dave pretended to be insane before some guy! Bahahaha. 
Dave seems pretty excited that God delivered him... and all Dave had to do is pretend to be insane. I think God has a sense of humor! Its quite a good Psalm actually, I like the way Dave praises God after every victory he has, I see this in a lot of his Psalms.


God bless
Love -E- xxxx

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Psalm 33

1 Sing joyfully to the Lord, you righteous;
it is fitting for the upright to praise him.

2 Praise the Lord with the harp;
make music to him on the ten-stringed lyre.

3 Sing to him a new song;
play skillfully, and shout for joy.

4 For the word of the Lord is right and true;
he is faithful in all he does.

5 The Lord loves righteousness and justice;
the earth is full of his unfailing love.

6 By the word of the Lord the heavens were made,
their starry host by the breath of his mouth.

7 He gathers the waters of the sea into jars;
he puts the deep into storehouses.

8 Let all the earth fear the Lord;
let all the people of the world revere him.

9 For he spoke, and it came to be;
he commanded, and it stood firm.

10 The Lord foils the plans of the nations;
he thwarts the purposes of the peoples.

11 But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever,
the purposes of his heart through all generations.

12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord,
the people he chose for his inheritance.

13 From heaven the Lord looks down
and sees all mankind;

14 from his dwelling place he watches
all who live on earth—

15 he who forms the hearts of all,
who considers everything they do.

16 No king is saved by the size of his army;
no warrior escapes by his great strength.

17 A horse is a vain hope for deliverance;
despite all its great strength it cannot save.

18 But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him,
on those whose hope is in his unfailing love,

19 to deliver them from death
and keep them alive in famine.

20 We wait in hope for the Lord;
he is our help and our shield.

21 In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name.

22 May your unfailing love be with us, Lord,
even as we put our hope in you.


This Psalm is incredible... From verse 1-3 it paints me a beautiful picture of worshiping and praising God, and loosing ourselves in praise. From verse 4 onwards it tells us why we should worship.... I really enjoy this Psalm, it makes me feel joyful! 
In a sense it also makes me feel calm...."We wait and hope for the Lord" this is what we should be doing! Hope is my favorite word....I looked up its meaning on Dictionary.com, and this was the best definition: To look forward to with desire and reasonable confidence.
When the Psalm writer talks about waiting in hope for the Lord, I picture myself, sitting down quietly, closing my eyes, and waiting for Him in the silence. There is a saying that says "Good things come to those who wait"... and God is definitely a good thing. 

God bless
Love, me xx

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Psalm 32

Of David. A maskil.
1 Blessed is the one
whose transgressions are forgiven,
whose sins are covered.

2 Blessed is the one
whose sin the Lord does not count against them
and in whose spirit is no deceit.

3 When I kept silent,
my bones wasted away
through my groaning all day long.

4 For day and night
your hand was heavy on me;
my strength was sapped
as in the heat of summer.

5 Then I acknowledged my sin to you
and did not cover up my iniquity.
I said, "I will confess
my transgressions to the Lord."
And you forgave
the guilt of my sin.

6 Therefore let all the faithful pray to you
while you may be found;
surely the rising of the mighty waters
will not reach them.

7 You are my hiding place;
you will protect me from trouble
and surround me with songs of deliverance.

8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.

9 Do not be like the horse or the mule,
which have no understanding
but must be controlled by bit and bridle
or they will not come to you.

10 Many are the woes of the wicked,
but the Lord's unfailing love
surrounds the one who trusts in him.

11 Rejoice in the Lord and be glad, you righteous;
sing, all you who are upright in heart!

Missunderstood

I am so annoyed with people not understanding childcare. People think we like to wrap children up in cotton wool, and all we do is baby sit. This is so not true! The parents are the ones who like to wrap their children up in cotton wool... Luckily there are some sane parents who just want to let their child have fun... but it is because of the parents that we have so many regulations. A lot of the regulations are needed because we care about the children's safety, but some are over the top. A big one is, that most childcare centers have fake grass, and they don't have plants or trees. I have never had work experience at a childcare centre that had real grass... Two of the centres that I had prac at, had trees and lovely gardens. I was thrilled to see this, but they didn't have grass! Those were both C&K centres.... I visited a C&K kindy for a few hours one day, and they had real grass. I was amazed. It was the 3rd oldest kindy in QLD.... The reason why there isn't real grass in the majority of childcare centres, is obviously because there are bugs and insects, prickles, and bindies in the grass..... but I don't understand this. School ovals have grass, so why can't Childcare and Kindies have grass? Sure, the child might get the occasional ant bite, or bindy in their foot, but is it really the end of the world? Children need to experience these things in order to live. Children need to get dirty, fall over every now and again, get ant bites. This is the way they learn! There are few centres with hills as well. I don't know how I could live without Roley poley hills as a child. As a child, I made mud slides, I played in the flooded oval where we lived in PNG, I helped to plant gardens, I got dirty. Children from age 0-4or 5 like textures, and learn through them... but a lot of parents don't want their child hurt in any way, so they are taking that away from them.
Childcare is meant to be a learning environment... I'm not just a "group leader", my full job name is "Early Childhood Educator". We teach children, and most of us believe that children should learn through play. We also develop relationships with them, and they begin to trust us. We fix what damage has been done in them  e.g. If children are attention seekers, we know that it is because they have not received enough attention at home... we we give them the amount of attention they need.
We form partnerships with families. We constantly discuss how we can improve things.
We also prepare children for school. We really care about them, and we will do all that we can to help them learn, and become who they are meant to be.

This is the Philosophy I wrote up for an assignment.


My Philosophy
Play:
Play is an important way that children learn, not through strict education.
 Through play, the child learns about roles in society, the environment and interaction with others. They also learn important developmental skills during play.
Play is an important part of a child’s day and should be regarded seriously.

Curriculum framework:
The Early Years Learning Framework is an important guide for educators to follow.
Children should have a strong sense of identity. This means feeling safe, secure and supported.
Children should have a strong sense of well being.
Children should be confident and involved learners, through curiosity, cooperation, confidence, creativity, commitment, enthusiasm, persistence, imagination and reflexivity.
Children should resource their own learning e.g. by connecting with people, technologies, natural and processed materials.
Children should feel a sense of belonging, being and becoming.

The whole child:
Children have the right to be included, regardless of their gender, culture, additional needs, religion, values and beliefs; children are individuals and should be treated as such. This means complete inclusivity, no child is to be left out, and we must provide an environment that suits the needs of every child.
Every child is unique
Children need to be cared for in an environment that is comfortable for them. This means that the environment is welcome, friendly and safe.
 Children have a right to express themselves in ways that are easiest for them. Children may choose to express themselves whatever way they feel comfortable with e.g. painting/ artistically, verbally, sign and body language.
 Children have the right to life, and should be treated with complete respect. Children should be kept safe at all times, and their needs are to be put first.

Discipline:
Children should only be disciplined in a non- harmful way. A child should never be harmed physically or emotionally. 
A child should never be put down or ridiculed in any way.
Physical harm is never acceptable.
Discipline is important because it helps children understand and learn what is right and wrong.
Discipline isn’t just punishment, when someone is disciplined; they have an understanding of what is acceptable in society and how to control themselves.

Socialising:
Socialising is an important way for children to develop friendships. Without relationships, it is difficult to survive in any environment.
Children have the right to have friendships.
Socialising helps children to learn what is acceptable.
Socialising helps create different aspects of personality.
Socialising helps develop confidence.

Development of community and cultural Identity:
Children need to be connected to their community, and be involved.
Cultures are important and shouldn’t be discriminated against in any way.
Cultures should be practiced and celebrated.

As an early childhood professional:
Childcare guides children through developmental growth. This means that I, as an early childhood professional will ensure that the activities that I provide at childcare will support this developmental growth.
Early childhood professionals should have both knowledge and experience with children.
I believe that as an early childhood professional, I should provide a nurturing environment for children. It is important to be caring, loving and understanding no matter what the circumstance. 


Did you notice how personal it is? Well It really frustrates me when I see children being disciplined wrongly, or when I see people say things to children that aren't appropriate like "don't be silly". It also frustrates me that not everyone is as passionate about children as I am... I am incredibly passionate. A lot of my teachers commented about how insightful I am. I'm not saying that I'm the only passionate one, because I'm not... My teachers,  a lot of the girls in my class were too, a lot of childcare workers are, and I have also seen it in parents. Every time something goes wrong in childcare, we are heartbroken. We want childcare to be known for what it really is... and we want children being taught with respect! I understand what it is like to be called silly, it damaged me emotionally!

God bless
Love -E-

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

"The real world" + me = confusion

 When high school finished, I was pretty scared to be leaving the security of uniforms, and formal schedules behind, to enter "the real world". The truth is, I never really entered "the real world" after leaving school. I thought that TAFE was the start of my journey in "the real world"... but it wasn't really, it was really the end of my journey before I entered "the real world"... I was scared before I settled in, but I found it quite comfortable after all. I made knew friends (although they weren't like my school ones) I found my way around, and I managed to stick to the timetable. TAFE was a lot like school, minus the uniforms, and the formality. My teachers didn't give me a detention for being late, and although I thought I would never feel comfortable in the clothes I have, I managed. The worst part was the assignments, being so big, and having so many of them. But I did it, and although I was insecure at times, I still managed. As I said, I thought I would be entering "the real world" when I went to TAFE, but I never did... and it was because I was still in education. I have been in education for 13 and a half years.... now it is over. Now I AM in the real world.... and it feels great to have graduated, but right now, I am feeling incredibly scared.
I was thrilled to have passed everything, because I had told everyone that as soon as I pass, I would have a break before I look for a job. I did have a lovely break, but now I have graduated and I am under pressure. Everyone is telling me that I need a job. Dad is pressuring me, and so many people have asked me if I have gotten one yet. It seems that everyone expects me to get a job. What they don't seem to know is that I expect myself to as well... I need a job before SMASH, so that I can go... but I just don't know if I have the guts to go for an interview. I have never had a job, and interviews sound scary! I also had a plan to renew my CPR before I went for any jobs, but I haven't gotten that far. Most of the Childcare Jobs that were up on Seek.com, required me to have First aid and CPR . Dad keeps bugging me to go get the CPR done, but I just haven't gotten around to it. I have no motivation. Auntie Jenny (who was a childcare worker) insists that regulations says that I don't need to have CPR to go for a job... she also reckons I should be a relief worker before I go full time. This ruins everything! Do I stick with my plan or follow Jenny's advice?
I am so confused. It doesn't help that I am scared, and It doesn't help that I have emotional problems still dwelling within me. What do I do?

It would be sensible to pray, to ask God for an answer, and to ask Him for confidence... but to be honest, I'm struggling with prayer. I am struggling with asking Him for help. I'm not sure why, I think I am just going through one of those stages. Satan is rubbing it in! I'm not motivated, I'm not confident, and I'm being pressured. Gee, this is a good start to Independence isn't it?
*sigh*
Hellllp???????

God bless
love -E- xx

Psalm 31

For the director of music. A psalm of David.1 In you, Lord, I have taken refuge;
let me never be put to shame;
deliver me in your righteousness.

2 Turn your ear to me,
come quickly to my rescue;
be my rock of refuge,
a strong fortress to save me.

3 Since you are my rock and my fortress,
for the sake of your name lead and guide me.

4 Keep me free from the trap that is set for me,
for you are my refuge.

5 Into your hands I commit my spirit;
deliver me, Lord, my faithful God.

6 I hate those who cling to worthless idols;
as for me, I trust in the Lord.

7 I will be glad and rejoice in your love,
for you saw my affliction
and knew the anguish of my soul.

8 You have not given me into the hands of the enemy
but have set my feet in a spacious place.

9 Be merciful to me, Lord, for I am in distress;
my eyes grow weak with sorrow,
my soul and body with grief.

10 My life is consumed by anguish
and my years by groaning;
my strength fails because of my affliction,t
and my bones grow weak.

11 Because of all my enemies,
I am the utter contempt of my neighbors
and an object of dread to my closest friends—
those who see me on the street flee from me.

12 I am forgotten as though I were dead;
I have become like broken pottery.

13 For I hear many whispering,
"Terror on every side!"
They conspire against me
and plot to take my life.

14 But I trust in you, Lord;
I say, "You are my God."

15 My times are in your hands;
deliver me from the hands of my enemies,
from those who pursue me.

16 Let your face shine on your servant;
save me in your unfailing love.

17 Let me not be put to shame, Lord,
for I have cried out to you;
but let the wicked be put to shame
and be silent in the realm of the dead.

18 Let their lying lips be silenced,
for with pride and contempt
they speak arrogantly against the righteous.

19 How abundant are the good things
that you have stored up for those who fear you,
that you bestow in the sight of all,
on those who take refuge in you.

20 In the shelter of your presence you hide them
from all human intrigues;
you keep them safe in your dwelling
from accusing tongues.

21 Praise be to the Lord,
for he showed me the wonders of his love
when I was in a city under siege.

22 In my alarm I said,
"I am cut off from your sight!"
Yet you heard my cry for mercy
when I called to you for help.

23 Love the Lord, all his faithful people!
The Lord preserves those who are true to him,
but the proud he pays back in full.

24 Be strong and take heart,
all you who hope in the Lord.


This is a very full on Psalm. Dave is crying out to God, pretty much begging Him to help. This makes me feel a bit faithless... well I do have faith, but I have little faith sometimes, that God will help me. I know He can, but will He? I don't exactly get down on my knees and cry, begging him for help. I have done it a few times I guess... I have broken down completely and cried out.... but if I was just a bit more passionate about helping myself, maybe I would be more like David.... maybe I would have more faith.


God bless
Love, Me
xoxo

Monday, July 11, 2011

Psalm 30

A psalm. A song. For the dedication of the temple. Of David.t
1 I will exalt you, Lord,
for you lifted me out of the depths
and did not let my enemies gloat over me.

2 Lord my God, I called to you for help,
and you healed me.

3 You, Lord, brought me up from the realm of the dead;
you spared me from going down to the pit.

4 Sing the praises of the Lord, you his faithful people;
praise his holy name.

5 For his anger lasts only a moment,
but his favor lasts a lifetime;
weeping may stay for the night,
but rejoicing comes in the morning.

6 When I felt secure, I said,
"I will never be shaken."

7 Lord, when you favored me,
you made my royal mountain stand firm;
but when you hid your face,
I was dismayed.

8 To you, Lord, I called;
to the Lord I cried for mercy:

9 "What is gained if I am silenced,
if I go down to the pit?
Will the dust praise you?
Will it proclaim your faithfulness?

10 Hear, Lord, and be merciful to me;
Lord, be my help."

11 You turned my wailing into dancing;
you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy,

12 that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent.
Lord my God, I will praise you forever.


What a beautiful Psalm, a song, not quite how we would write songs, but still beautiful. Something jumped out at me in verse 5 "For his anger lasts, only a moment,"... It is so true... He does get angry I suppose, but He doesn't dwell on it. Dwelling on emotions like anger, is a sin... we should follow God's example. There is no need to dwell on anger, and I know it is something I am guilty of. I dwell on anger a lot, and it just makes me feel worse. The best thing to do is get angry at something, not someone e.g. a stress ball... a wall probably isn't a good idea... I often have to cry or scream into my pillow to let it all out. 


God bless
Love -E- xx

30 Days of thankfulness: Day 30

I am thankful that there are always things to be thankful for, even when it feels like our worlds are being turned upside down. I am thankful for Jesus, and all He has done, and I am thankful that I can have a relationship with him. I am thankful for God too, for all He has done, and especially for His beautiful creation. We could never run out of things to be thankful for. I am thankful for participating in the 30 Days of thankfulness, as it has made me much more thankful. I know this was only for 30 days, but I do imagine that I will begin to be more thankful every day :)

God bless
Love -E-
xx