An Important Reminder On Christmas Day

I got up this morning around 6:30 or so and decided to watch the 3rd Spiderman movie on my laptop. It was a really good movie. After that, I texted my boyfriend telling him about it and I wished I had saved it for when we saw each other again. We talked for a little while longer about different things-mainly about Christmas. After I got off the phone with him, I went online to read Our Daily Bread which is a devotional I learn so much from. This time the message really struck a chord within me. The title of the message was called "The Blessing Tree" and they read from Luke 1:46-55. It talked about how Mary was rejoicing. She said, "My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior" (vv. 46-47). In the message itself, it talked about this young couple who's business had failed and they had to move out of their home just after New Year's! Since it was Christmas, they didn't want that situation to ruin it so they decided to throw a party. They found a cedar tree and decorated it with one string of lights and paper rolled up into balls tied to the tree with ribbon. When their guests arrived and saw the tree, they happily said "Welcome to our Blessing Tree!" The young couple explained to their guests that they dedicated their tree to God. No matter what hard times they faced, God blessed them in so many ways. They said that each piece of paper represents a blessing God has given them this year (which was that year they celebrated as they did).

I quote directly from the devotional this: "This couple has faced more trials since then, but they have chosen to stay focused on the Lord. They often remark that the Christmas with the “blessing tree” was one of their most beautiful, because they could testify as Mary did: “My spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. . . . He who is mighty has done great things for me” (Luke 1:47-49). I can truly identify with this couple. I've been through some very hard times (e.g. trying to stay in school) and I'm still going through hard times now. Yet, this reading reminded me that through tough times, I can rejoice in the Lord. He has blessed me in so many ways. He blessed me with a wonderful family, a place to live, good friends and an amazing boyfriend. Most of all, He has blessed me with true love-a love only He can give.

What really put a hold on me was the reminder that was included in this message. They usually end their devotions with a poem and a reminder. It's short but absolutely sweet. Here is the poem first:

Jesus came—and came for me!
Simple words, and yet expressing
Depths of holy mystery,
Depths of wondrous love and blessing. —Havergal

And the reminder was: To give meaning to Christmas, give Christ first place. Oh my gosh, that hit me hard! So hard, I nearly cried. That line convicted me so much. Did I give Christ first place today? No, I didn't. I gave Spiderman and my boyfriend first place today. It hurts but it is the truth. Right then and there I repented before God. I asked Him to forgive me and I know He did. I love how God forgives us and tosses what we repented of into the Sea of Forgetfulness. That's such an awesome thing to think about! What I learned today was this: there is a time and a place for everything but we need to remember that God is first in place. Yes there is always time for talking with friends and watching movies, but it's absolutely imporatant that we're aware of the fact that God IS with us....not just some of time but all the time!! "Put God First?" It's not just a saying-it's the way of Christian life.

Dear Lord Jesus, I thank You and praise You so much for this wonderful reminder You have shown me today. You are such an awesome God! May I never forget that. I pray that as I keep on living, I'll learn more and more to put You first in EVERYTHING I do. You are my #1 and my Inspiration. You are my Magnificent Obsession, the One I need, the One I thirst for and long for. I praise and thank You for being born on this day. I just want to say with everything that is within me HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS!!! Words can't describe how much You mean to me. I love You so very much and I give Your precious name ALL praise, ALL honor and ALL glory forevermore!! In Jesus' Mighty Name I pray, amen!!!

A Few Years Have Passed.....But I Still Remember

Well, today marks 7 years since the attack of September 11th. I still remember it like it was yesterday. What really gets to me about it is the fact that so many people don't seem to hold it in high regard like they did when it actually happened. It saddens me. So many people I know have lived through tragedies like the assassination of John F. Kennedy or the attack of Pearl Harbor and all I can do is listen to them...talking about where they were when it all happened. Of course, I wasn't around when it happened and I never thought that I would actually have an opportunity to live through a tragedy. I remember so clearly where I was when 9/11 happened: I used to work in a farmer's market. That was my first job. I was in the produce section of the store sitting on some type of crate with wheels separating good onions from bad ones. My mom worked in the meat section of the store at the time. She came up to me and told me there's been an attack on America and told me to pray. I sat right where I was and prayed (but I didn't know exactly what happened). When we got home after 5:00 that day, the news was on tv. When I saw what happened, my heart sank. I just couldn't get over how horrible it was, how unbeliveable it seemed. I went upstairs after a while and just cried out to God. During my time of prayer and sorrow I felt for all those people who died, I wrote a little poem. Unfortunately, I don't know where it is right now and I don't remember exactly how it goes. It's a poem I never finished but I'll be sure and post it next time I write a blog.

One thing I can say is this: I'm so thankful to God for just being able to live life. I'm glad He's called me to be an encourager to people, a person who's willing to offer help when it's needed, and a worship leader in training. I just know that God is going to take me far with all of the above. All I can do is wait and pray. And of course, I'll continue to pray for all the families who lost someone dear to them that tragic day of 9/11. I don't ever want to forget that day and how it just impacted me. Too many people have either forgotten about it or don't really hold it in high regard like they used to. I don't want to be like that.

Dear Lord Jesus, I thank You for being so awesome. You're such a wonderful God and I'm so glad You're my Savior. I pray now for the families who lost someone during the attack of 9/11. I'm sure that brings back some painful memories for them. I pray that You'll just bring them comfort in this time, Father God. I pray that You'll put Your loving arms around them. Bless them, Lord. Keep them safe wherever they go. Thank You Lord. I also pray that I'll never forget what happened during that time. I pray Lord that You'll keep it fresh in my mind and that it will not die. I pray that whenever I remember it, each time will be a time of realization for me. I also pray that others will feel the same way. Thank You Jesus. I pray Father God that You'll keep me in check with what I need to get done. May I not forget the calling You've placed on my life. Indeed Lord, it's not my life but You living in me. May I never forget that. I love You so much Father God and I live to praise Your precious name in everything I do. I give Your name all the praise, honor and glory forevermore. In Jesus' mighty name I pray, amen.

For all those who lost someone during this awful tragedy, may this scripture passage give you comfort. It's very familiar but very appropriate.


1 The LORD is my shepherd,
I shall not be in want.

2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,

3 he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.

4 Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death, [a]
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.

6 Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

Psalm 23:1-6 (9:38 pm)

So Much Has Happened

My gosh! So much has happened, I don't even know where to begin. I guess I'll start with this. For now, Travis and I aren't pursuing a relationship and we still remain good friends. I'll write another blog later in the week about how that came to be. For now, I'll stick to the current events. Lately, Travis and I have been having some really good conversations. We talk about so much! We're still really good friends. Like I stated one time; we're so close, it's crazy! We know each other so well and we have so much in common. Emphasis on SO MUCH! (sighs) I said it before and I'll say it again; I feel like I've come too close to finding the one I know I'll love and care for the rest of my life. Have I truly found my soulmate? Is this really the person I'm supposed to be with? Right now, I know I want that to be so but I also know without a doubt that God is not through with me yet. I truly desire to serve God during my singleness as much as possible. I'm just getting started; being a keyboardist at Crown of Life Ministries, writing praise songs, making and selling greeting cards, and of course, my dance ministry. All this is just the beginning! God has made that quite clear to me. So what if it took me 25 years to get to this point? As far as I'm concerned, it has all been well worth it. There is still a lot to learn but I know I'll get through. Why? Because "I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me!" (Phil. 4:13)

As far as Travis and I are concerned, I just hope and pray that both of us will have the patience and the strength to conquer all. I know without a doubt that we have something. We just have to keep trusting in God and not get ahead of ourselves. One thing I want him to do is to just be patient with me. I appreciate how much he has been so far. For all I know, it could go all the way to the time I graduate college or beyond. I don't know how long it'll take. I really don't but I'm quite sure when God tells me it's time, I will know without a hint of doubt. Here's another thing I'm sure of; I feel like I've found my worship partner. (smiles) My mind simply bursts with new ideas these days and I have dreams about our ministry together as a team. I mean, heck! We've even named our group already! TNT - Dynomite for Jesus! Gosh, I love the sound of that! (laughs) I really want that to happen. Who knows? It just might. I guess I'll just keep on praying about it. I know one thing though; Travis and I share such a beautiful friendship and I never want it to end. I've prayed long and hard quite a bit of my life for a best friend and look at who God sent into my life! I'm so thankful and I praise my Heavenly Father for this dear person. Travis is without a doubt that best friend I was praying for. (smiles)

My dear Heavenly Father, You are so awesome!! It truly amazes me how much You love me. I love You so much and I strive every day to give You all the glory, honor and praise forevermore in all I do. Father God, thank You so much for sending Travis into my life. I know there has to be a reason behind it. I'm quite sure You didn't have us meet for nothing. I pray Lord that You'll just bless Travis in a special way. I pray that You'll put Your loving arms around him and keep him safe wherever he goes. Bless his family and his pastor. May heavenly blessings shower over them. May Your love be shown brightly in their lives. Thank You Jesus. I sincerely pray for focus in my life. You've brought me so far already. Show me what I'm supposed to do now, Jesus. I am ready to listen. I pray that Your love and mercy will be shown through me and in me no matter where I am. May it just be so evident that I belong to You.....so much so, it can't be denied. Lead me on to where I need to go next. I await Your guiding hand. Thank You Jesus. I praise and thank You so much for all You're doing and are about to do. I live to praise Your name in every aspect of my life. Of course, it's not my life but You living Your life through me. May I never forget that. I just give Your name praise, honor and glory forevermore. In Jesus' precious Name I pray, amen! (9:33 pm)

One Question: Who Would've Thought?

This is going to be something to put out but I guess I'll start with this; so much has happened over the past few weeks! I got to visit Liberty U. for a couple of days in April and was very glad when I did. When I got off the train after an hour delay, I was reunited with my dear friend Travis. I couldn't say enough how happy we were to see each other. We drove to my friend Salvy's house from the station and settled there for a few minutes before Travis had to go back to the dorm. The next day was a brand new beginning because something happened that wasn't expected... especially that Tuesday night. I accompanied Travis to a few places that day when I realized I wasn't going to be hanging out with my friend Richie like we said we would. I suppose there's always next time though. Anyway, we went to Walmart to get a birthday present for my youngest brother, Burger King to eat and then we went to Salvy's house so we could chill for a bit. When we got there, the door was locked and everyone was gone. lol At that point, I decided to sit on the porch and not long after that, Travis joined me. We started talking a bit about different things that have happened in the past, mainly what happened between him and Jessica. While he vented out to me, I rested my head on his shoulder as I was listening. As I did that, he put his arm around me. Before we knew it, we were holding hands. It just seemed so natural. Travis later told me that he felt at peace that night instead of feeling pain because of how Jessica broke off her relationship with him. It was so astounding to me when he told me that.

The following day we spent together was unforgettable. We went driving up to the mountains and did some hiking. We hiked down to this pretty waterfall where we took some pictures and stood together on this bridge where the waterfall ran down. We held each other close for a while. All the way there and all the way back, we held hands. Then we went out to dinner and Campus Church. One thing about when we went from the Blue Ridge Parkway to dinner, we didn't stop holding hands til we got out of the car! It was something else. And of course, Campus Church was awesome!! Dr. Caner talked about how we should test the spirit, about how we should find out whether what we're getting into is God's will or not. Travis and I learned a lot that night. When we came back to Salvy's house, the door was open but I wanted to sit outside for a while again. Travis decided to join me again. Oh, how we didn't want the night to end! We sat on the porch and held each other close again. When the time came to say goodnight, we really didn't want to. I walked Travis over to his car and we just stood there hugging each other a few times. Gosh! Ever since that week I came down, things have been happening between us. It looks like we're heading into a relationship. Oops, I take that back.... we are! My visit to North Carolina in the summer will surely confirm it. We've been having a lot of conversations lately about it and it just keeps getting better and better. The dreams I've had about Travis and me are coming true and I just can't believe it. I just want to thank God for sending Travis into my life. He's been such a blessing to me and I can't wait for great things to happen in our lives. As long as we keep giving God all the glory in all we do, everything will fall into place. I just want to put this out: I'm not in it for the moment alone - I'm in it for the rest of my life.

Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you so much for your faithfulness and your love. You've carried me through rough times and showed me the way to go. I love you forever. I praise and thank you Father for what's been happening between Travis and me. I believe you've brought us together for a reason. It's so evident now. I pray that you'll bless us as we live our lives to give you all the glory. I pray for great things to happen as we keep on seeking after you with our whole hearts. Thank you so much for bringing Travis into my life. Continue to keep watch over him and his family. I thank you for your angels surrounding them and protecting them wherever they go. Thank you so much, Jesus. You truly are my Number One and my Inspiration. I love you so much! In Jesus' Precious Name I pray, amen. (6:33 pm)

A Conversation With Jesus About The Rising

It is such a wonder to think about
so much you've done for me
But the one thing that stands out the most
is what you went through on Calvary

You knew your time was drawing close
Yes, indeed it was coming soon
you cried out to God that night
under the big and bright full moon

"Not my will but yours be done"
you spoke out towards your Dad
then came the sound of Roman soldiers
marching on like they have gone mad!

Once Judas Iscariot pointed you out
they grabbed you and took you away
You were brought to the priests to answer questions
and what did you have to say?

When you declared boldly who you were
they cried out "blasphemy!"
then later, you took 39 stripes on your back
Oh my Lord, was this all for me?

You carried that cross all the way
to the place you were destined to go
They drove the nails in your hands and feet
Your precious blood started to flow

"It should've been me on that cross, not you
Why did you take my place?"
"Because if I hadn't done that,
your heart would stay an empty space"

They took you down from off that cross
and laid you in your grave
Then, triumphantly on the third day
you rose and now live again!

"Why did you do this for me, Jesus?
I really want to know"
"The answer is obvious," you reply
"It is because I love you so"

Written by Tiffany J. Washington; inspired by God Himself!4/6/07 - 4/8/07

A Poem Written from Psalm 61

Hear my cries to You, Father
Pay heed to my prayer
In my times of trouble and sorrow
When I need someone, You are there

Lead me on boldly, Lord
To the rock that is higher than me
Teach and show me your ways, Papa God
Sit me down upon your knee

I want to learn all I can
Listening intently to your call
May I dwell forever in your Tabernacle
In your marvellous refuge I want to fall

When my heart is troubled and faint
and I grow weary on this road
May I run to you with confidence
and trust you with my heavy load

Protect me incessantly, my Master
May I find comfort under your wings
May I embrace the wonders you show me
and know how I can live as kings

"I love you until the end and beyond"
You tell me so powerful and true
You say, "You are indeed my child"
Who would know better than you?

May I live for you with boldness
to praise and adore your Name
Because you deserve all the glory
Yes, you deserve all the fame!

Written by Tiffany J. Washington; inspired by my Lord and Savior!!

Easter vs. Resurrection

"Happy Easter!" is heard a lot around this time of year but what does it really mean? I heard from a source (my mom) that the word "easter" is the name of a Pagan goddess! I thought "what in the world?? really??" I also thought "I share the celebration of my risen Lord with a pagan goddess?! No way!" I looked in my Bible and to be totally honest, the word "easter" isn't even mentioned in there! The word "Resurrection" sure is though. Jesus said Himself in John 11:25 "..... I am the Resurrection, and the Life: he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:" I don't know about you but I think I'm going to wish everyone a Happy Resurrection Day instead of "Happy Easter." It seems to fit better and of course, the Bible declares it to be so. May God bless you all!!

A Way of Expressing The Bible

There was one day I was walking to Convocation my first semester at Liberty reading my bible. To be specific, I was reading Psalm 33:3. All of the sudden, I started writing down a version of this verse. Here it is:
"Sing unto the Lord God almighty a brand new song; a song of joy, a song of hope, a song of true worship unto Him. Play skillfully and passionately with a loud and bold noise; a noise so powerful it would shake the world and may it enable other to join in and sing excellent praises unto Him."
I am not sure why that came out at the time but I suppose we'll wait and see what purpose it serves. God bless you all!!

How A Friendship Can Change Your Life Forever

Here's a question for you: do you believe friendships can change your life? Let me give you my answer to that. Yes, I believe friendships can change your life. I believe great things can happen in a friendship. I have living proof of a friendship that has definitely changed my life in quite a dramatic way. The friendship I have with Travis has been quite an adventure for me. It's unlike any other friendship I've had with anyone else. It all started when I first met him. We both attended Liberty University the same year: fall of 2004. We had the same GNED class, but we didn't really know each other then. My second semester after my year-long break we were in University Chorale and got to know each other a bit more. We had lunch together here and there. I suppose it was a casual friendship/acquaintence at the time. When my third semester came along, that was when things really changed. This time, he and I found out that I was part of his sisterdorm. Isn't that something?! Also, we were both in Worship 101 class and TRBC choir. His Celebration Choir joined in with TRBC where we did the Living Christmas Tree performance. At that time, Travis and I would drive together to dinner and rehearsals as well as performance nights. During that time, we grew so close to each other. That was when we became very close friends...so close, it's crazy! I don't think I've been that close to anyone outside my family as I am close to him. He tells me I grew on him. (laughs) I couldn't argue with that. Ever since I left Liberty, I've missed him a lot. I didn't even get to hug him before I left. :( That will change though. I'm making plans to go down to Lynchburg for a few days to get some of my clothes and other things from my friend Salvador's house. Travis and I plan to spend a little time together while I'm down there. :) I can't wait for that to happen. We'll wait and see how this turns out. I have no doubt it'll turn out well. I tell you, I didn't know what was going to happen when I met Travis. If God meant to surprise me, boy did He ever! There's so much Travis does for me; he lifts me up when I'm down, he encourages me so much, he makes me laugh (especially at myself sometimes, lol), and he sticks with me through my hard times. I don't think I could ask God for a better friend. Well, of course there's Jesus. He's there for me all the time. :) Well, that's my description of a friendship that has changed my life.

To Travis: Well, you wanted to know how our friendship has been something for me. I was telling you I'd save it for our next conversation, but evidently, I wrote an entire blog about it. lol I have no doubt this will answer any questions you might've had for me. You truly are amazing, my dear friend. I'm so glad God has brought you into my life. I can't wait to see what happens next on this road of life I travel. Who would've thought? Did you see this coming? Because I sure didn't. You told me you wouldn't change a thing concerning our friendship. Believe me, I wouldn't either. Be blessed and I hope you're feeling better today. I'm still praying for you.:)

Dear Lord, thank you so much for everything. You are such an awesome God. Thank you for giving me talent that I can use to glorify you. Thank you for putting me on this earth to give encouragement to others when they need it. I can only do so much. You are the Great Encourager. Thank you for the great friendship I share with Travis. Keep on blessing him, Lord. Give him strength to do what he needs to do. I thank you for your heavenly angels surrounding him and protecting him wherever he goes. Bless his family, Lord Jesus. Keep them safe and secure. I thank you also for the church building they've moved into last December. I pray for great things to happen in that church. Thank you, Lord. Thank you for blessing me as you have this past Sunday. I pray for so much to happen in this church that has designated me to play keyboard for them. May you work through me as I play. May your presence just fall on me and flow out through me. Thank you so much for everything! You truly are my Inspiration. I love you so much, Jesus. In your Mighty Name I pray, amen. (3:22 pm)

Missing So Much....But There's A Light at the End of My Tunnel

Today was a good day so far but now, I'm in kind of a sad mood. I miss Liberty University so much. I miss my friends, my college life, food at the rot (yeah, even that), Campus Church on Wednesdays, Convocation three days a week,... Oh, I miss it all! There is also someone at LU I miss very much. I'll give you one guess... (waiting).... all right, I'll tell you. It's my dearest friend Travis. I miss our singing at David's Place on different nights during the week, our fun times hanging out at the clubhouse, discussions about all sorts of things at lunch or dinner at the rot.... yeah, that's what I miss most. I have been singing my worship song "We Live To Praise Your Name" pretty much every day when I walk to work. Every time I sing that song, I hear Travis singing it with me. (sniffs) Gosh! This is the most depressing blog I've ever written! Oh well, I'm just expressing myself. It's just one of those days where I know where I am and I'm wishing I was somewhere else... specifically Liberty U. I'm playing the "Revelation Song" at the moment and the memories just keep on going in my mind. (sighs) I guess I'm just being me... sort of. I have to keep reminding myself that God has me here at home for a reason. I just hope and pray that all will go well here and I get things accomplished. To my friend Travis: I'm always thinking about you and keeping you in my prayers. Remember that. I thank my Heavenly Father for sending you my way. You've stuck with me through my trying times up until the time I had to leave LU. Thank you so much! (Big hug)

Dear Lord, thank you so much for being such a wonderful God. I praise you and I lift up your holy name. May I never forget why I've been put on this earth you created. Thank you also for giving me a chance to get started in making something of myself. I know now why you had me choose Worship and Music Ministry as my major. I love you so much and I praise your name forevermore. In Jesus' Mighty Name I pray, amen. (3:10 pm)

Here's Another Poem

I just thought I'd put up this poem today. One time I did a dance to the song "Reach Out to Me" by Michael W. Smith off of his "This Is Your Time" project. It's all about a person going through struggles in life. I love the combination of praise dancing and poetry. It seems to all blend together wonderfully. Read and be blessed!

Dear Lord, I've wandered away from you

I tried to find my own way

but it seemed when I tried to head down that road

trouble followed every day

I've wandered away from the truth

I couldn't find peace in my life

I tried to fight battles on my own

and fell way deep into strife

I'm asking you now, please help me out

reach your loving arms to me

I've been blinded by my carelessness

open my eyes so I can see

The battle is much tougher than before

Dear God, help me win this fight

so that I'll be forever safe in your arms

and standing under your heavenly light

Written by Tiffany J. Washington - inspired by God!

(1:45 pm)

How Could I Be So Blind?

I have come to a realization today. I was in the kitchen washing the dishes and listening to music on my cd player. A little later I decided to switch cds and I listened to a song I sang with Thomas Road choir called "Cry Holy." I was singing along with it like I usually do since I knew the song so well. Suddenly, I decided to stop singing and start listening. As I listened, I closed my eyes and thought deep thoughts about what the words meant. It became so real to me, I almost cried. One line I especially meditate on goes like this: "When I'm on my face in my darkest night, I cry for a way to Your shining light. And Father, Your grace is greater than sin. Your mercy rains down and heals me again." It also made me think of what it really means to "fall on my knees and cry holy." I literally repented to God for forgetting that. In my time of singing with different choirs, I've gotten to know and love many songs that I have done with them. One thing though; I memorized all the music but how much did I take in the message of the songs themselves? One example: "We are not ashamed. No, we are not ashamed of the Gospel. The truth we will proclaim." What does that mean? It's telling people in the world that we are not ashamed to spread God's Word!! Another example: "Lord, You're holy. Lord, You're holy and we lift You up and magnify Your Name.... Wonderful! Glorious! Holy and Righteous! Victorious! Conquerer! Triuphant and Mighty! Healer, Deliverer, Shield and Defense! Strong Tower and my Best Friend! Omnipotent, Omnipresent, Soon Coming King! Alpha, Omega, Lord of Everything! Holy, holy, holy is Your Name!" What does that mean? It shows how grateful we are to Him and praising Him for all the things He is!!! I hope and pray that I won't forget this. Next time I sing a song in a choir (and I'm sure I will before long), I am going to think on what the song stands for and not just memorize the music.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You so much for having me come to this realization. I know I was going to write a blog about the great weekend I had in NC, but this has thought has taken over. May I never forget how Wonderful You are, how Glorious You are, how Loving You are. I love You so much, my True and Beautiful Inspiration. You never cease to amaze me in my everyday life. In Jesus' Mighty and Matchless Name I pray, amen!(6:58 pm)

A Time To Be Together.... A Time To Part

This past weekend was the most special of all. I spent the weekend at Roanoke Rapids, NC with my dear friends Travis and Jessica along with their parents. It was the best weekend ever but it had to come to an end when Travis drove me back to Lynchburg today. I will write about the weekend in full when I put up my next blog because this night is turning out to be a hard night. It will be my last night here in beautiful Virginia because I am leaving for Philadelphia in the morning. I leave 6:40 am. Yes, it is early but it was the only bus I could get. I wasn't able to get one later. I pretty much spent the whole day with Travis looking around for something he could get for Jessica as a birthday present. It was fun trying to see what we could get her. I bought a card that I thought she would like. It's pretty and the message is so sweet. It sounded like something I would say to her. (smiles) Anyway, after Travis' 7:00 class got out, he drove me back to my friend's house where we hung out for an hour or so talking to Jessica and looking around on the computer. That was really fun. Yes, tonight is hard but I think tomorrow morning is going to be even harder. Travis is taking me to the bus station so we'll be saying our good-byes to each other. I feel like I'm welling up already. I was hoping I wouldn't cry for real after that dream I had, but this coming up is definitely an emotional moment for me. I'm not sure how I'll contain it all. I'll just be praying that I'll survive the little trip down to the station! (sighs) I have to keep reminding myself "God knows what He's doing. He has it all under control." Hopefully I'll be reminding myself that constantly when I leave.

Dear Lord, thank you so much for everything. Thank you for bringing me to Liberty where I got to know some very dear people that I now hold close to my heart. Watch over everyone I know and their families. Cover them with your love and grace, Father. May your light shine within each one of them so bright that others can't deny that you are the True and Living God. I love you so much, Jesus. Keep reminding me that you have a purpose for me whether it be at home, in Lynchburg or maybe even in Roanoke Rapids. I don't know what you have set up for me, but I know it will be your plan to prosper me and not to harm me. Your plan will give me a future and a hope. May I never forget that. Thank you Father God, my One True Inspiration. I am so in love with you. In Jesus' Mighty Name I pray, amen. (1:20 am)

A Moment

When I wake up in the morning, I'm usually uplifted and ready to start my day, but this morning was a rough one for me. I woke up crying to a dream I had last night. This dream was set pretty much to this present time when I'm about to leave Liberty University. In this dream I was with my friend Travis and we were hanging out and having fun like we always do when suddenly I start crying right in front of him! I just sat down and started crying. When he saw me crying, he sat down next to me and held me close telling me it was going to be ok. We sat there for about 30 minutes! When I woke up, I cried and I felt like I couldn't stop. Is this dream showing me how much I'm going to miss him?? Yes, I like him. There I said it, but I like his girlfriend too. Jessica and I are such good friends and the last thing I want to do is get in the way of the beautiful relationship she has with him. I never thought I'd face this kind of problem in my life. It's quite rough. I've been quite reluctant to put this up because I don't know what Travis would think if he read this. I know one thing though; I don't want to start crying in front of him for real. I don't know what he would think or do. It makes me nervous to think about that. I just hope that if he eventually reads this blog, it won't change things between us. He's one of the dearest friends I have in the world and a real blessing in my life. To be honest, my life changed dramatically when he stepped into my life. It's as if God has blessed me with a guardian angel.

Dear Lord, please help me to keep myself under control. You know all about me and you know my needs better than anyone else. Help me to keep focused on you at all times. I love you so much, Jesus. You're the true reason I live. You are my One and only Inspiration! I pray this in Jesus' Name, amen. (5:01 pm)

A Time of Lessons Learned

Well, so much has happened over the past couple of weeks. All this time I thought I was standing on my faith when I came back to school, but as it turns out, it was all about my will, what I wanted to do. I wasn't focusing on what God was trying to tell me and the results of that put quite a damper on things. Ever since I got back to Liberty, I was trying to find someone to co-sign for my loan so I could complete financial check-in for this semester but to no avail. This upcoming Monday, my classes will be dropped and I will have to go back home to Philadelphia. My mom called me this morning and told me that I should just come on home. At first I didn't want to believe her, but I knew in my heart that she was right. (Updating today) Despite all that is happening, I believe God has given me peace about this whole situation. I've had one of the best weekends ever. This past weekend was College For a Weekend and I had two weekenders in my room. It was really cool. The first one was Nadya from Ashville, North Carolina and the other was Karen from Pennsylvania. I forgot exactly what part. I didn't get to exchange contact info with Karen unfortunately, but I did get to do that with Nadya. I can't wait to keep in contact with her when I'm at home.:o) This weekend is also going to be very special because my dear friend Travis is taking me down to Roanoke Rapids, NC so I can minister with the song I wrote over break at his church. That is going to be the best weekend ever! I'm so excited!! See how I am here? No matter what is happening around me, I have learned to "count it all joy." (James 1:2) I truly thank God for all that has happened whether positive or negative. It has taught me to be happy no matter how dire the circumstances are.

Dear Jesus, I thank you so much for everything. I thank you for your faithfulness and your mercy. You died on the cross and shed your precious blood so that I could live. I truly don't deserve that. I am so unworthy of your grace and yet, you love me so much. Thank you also for teaching me what it really means to "count it all joy." May I keep on seeking after you daily. May I never stray away from your loving arms. I want to be in them forevermore. I love you so much, Jesus. You are the One I can count on during the hard times and happy times. In Your Mighty and Matchless Name I pray, amen. (2/16/07 - 2/19/07, 12:25 pm)

God on the Throne - Picture of Holiness

Tonight's service for Spiritual Emphasis Week was amazing!! It all started with a few worship songs and you could just feel God move. It was so evident! I felt led to fall on my knees Meredith Andrews sang the Revelation Song. It moved me to tears. Not too long after that, Dr. James McDonald started speaking. His message was entitled "God on the Throne - Picture of Holiness" and he brought up some main points that really hit home for me. Point #1; Holiness describes Separation. We need to have a fresh, heartfelt sense of God's holiness. His Glory is so indescribable that no word in the English language can explain it fully. Ezekiel had a heck of a time doing it in chapter 1. The view of God containing His holiness is lost in our churches today. We need to realize that God is holy and we are not. Point #2: Holiness Demands Caution. Isaiah 6:2-3 reads "Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. 3: And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory." Dr. MacDonald also stated that holiness gives us a deep sense of our unworthyness. The expanse of God's holiness is so big, we cannot comprehend its true nature. We are unworthy and yet, God loves us so much. He wants to show us His glory.

Point #3: Holiness Declares Glory. Revelation 4:1-11 displays how the angels and heavenly hosts declared God's Glory. We need to declare God's Glory in our everyday life. As the angels cried out holy, holy, holy, the repetition of saying holy clearly shows force and drives the point across. The Glory of God is what emminates from His presence as heat is to water.

Finally, Point #4: Holiness Determines Mystery. The Lord God is a mysterious being. There is always a certain amount of mystery with Him. What we have to do is trust the mystery and keep on believing in Him. There may be something He doesn't tell us right away and we don't know what to expect, but we trust Him because He is God. After this enlightening message, Dr. MacDonald called everyone to pray and about 8 or 9 people got saved! It was so amazing! God is amazing. That's the main thing I realized that night. I'll never forget this experience I've had. It taught me this: God is Holy, full of Glory and no one can top Him! There is none like the Lord!!!

Dear Jesus, thank you so much for this time spent with you. May I never forget your holiness and your mercy. Thank you Lord for the fact that I'm here at Liberty doing what you commanded me to do. You have made me an encourager, a giver, a lover of others and, most importantly, a worshipper. May I continue to worship your holy Name in spirit and in truth like you have shown me last semester. I love you so much, my Heavenly Father. Let my heart sing your praise always and forevermore. In Jesus Mighty Name I pray, amen. (12:12 pm)

Becoming Christians Again

Convocation last Friday was good as well as quite fascinating. I listened to a guy named Dr. John Avant and he talked about Christians and what they stand for. He entitled his message "Becoming Christians Again." At first I was a little puzzled about the title because I thought "Why did he call it Becoming Christians Again? What does he mean by that?" He started out with the fact that we have been given the Great Commission. We have been called by God to bring the Gospel of Christ to the unsaved, to light the world with God's glory. Dr. Avant gave a definition for the word Christian. It was defined by A. W. Tozer as "a holy rebel let loose in the world with access to the throne of God so that Satan never knows from which direction the danger will come." He also brought this quote about prayer from Billy Graham: "The most eloquent prayer is prayer through the hands that heal and bless." I started wondering; "How is my prayer life? How is my walk with God? Am I truly following the Christian standard?"

At the end of the message, he gave us three questions that we can ask ourselves to evaluate a dangerous Christ-following life: 1. Is it dangerous to Satan? In other words, is my Christ life so evident that Satan can't touch me? 2. Is it for others - not just me? Am I living life just for myself or am I living so other people can be blessed? 3. Is it risky to cost me everything but the risk? Am I willing to give it all up for God or am I holding something back? These questions I ask myself as I write this blog. I hope and pray that whoever is reading this is doing the same thing. We, as Christians, need to take a stand for what we believe in. Too many of us hide behind closed doors and let the world discourage us. I pray that as God keeps on inspiring me in my every day life, I'll do what I can to help out others and bring God all the glory.

Dear Lord, thank you so much for giving me a heart to worship and adore you. If I haven't been carrying out what you commanded me to do, please forgive me. I strive to live every day for you and do your will. I love you so much, Lord Jesus. May I never stray away from what you have to tell me. I pray this in Jesus' Name, amen. (3:17 pm)

Sing Unto the Lord a New Song Part 2

Remember I wrote about the song that God gave me to write Christmas Day? Here's a new scoop on it. My dear friend Travis is not only helping me make it better, but he is also going to have the two of us sing it at his church one of these Sundays!! I'm so excited I could just burst! I can't wait to see what God is going to do with this. It could be the start of something really big. Something that could change my life. All I can do is wait upon the Lord and pray. I thank God for this semester. Some good things have been taking place. My classes are great, my professors are fantastic and more importantly, God is so good!! I don't know what God has planned for me this semester but I'm sure He will let me know in due time. I'll keep everyone posted. That's a promise.

Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you so much for all that's happened in the past couple of weeks. Thank you for giving me a song to sing to you, a place to live and grow and a heart for giving to others. I strive to give you my best of everything. I love you so much. I truly adore you and I hope to please you in everything I do. I pray this in Jesus Mighty Name, amen. (3:30 pm)

God is so FAITHFUL!!!

I can't get over how faithful God is! The last week of break and what has happened in the beginning of this week cannot be described in English words! However, I will try my best. My last week of Christmas break, it looked like I wasn't going to be able to come back to Liberty. Was I going to let that get me discouraged? Heck no! I kept on believing and kept on reminding God about what He told me. He told me Himself to get my education and He led me to Liberty. He wouldn't let me come this far to leave me now. He's not like that. I was praying for a ride back to LU, when lo and behold, my friend Richie sent me a message that was an answer to my prayers. He told me he was able to drive me back and my heart just jumped! Even though it looked like I was going back, I wasn't financially checked in yet. I went to Campus Church that following Sunday when I got back and ended up staying on campus with my RA's. That was pretty cool. When I was there at the dorm with them, I was asking them about what I should do with my stuff since it was still in the room. They got in contact with the RD and I was told that I could stay at the dorm because I was on the roster! Not only that, I was able to go to classes today! I'm still not checked in yet, but I have so much hope for what's to happen next. God is so GOOD!!! He made a way for me when it seemed there was no way. He led me down a path that was full of promise. He gave me hope for the future and granted me mercy. I'm so thankful!!! Praise the LORD!!!!

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you so much for making a way for me to come back to LU. I knew that if I kept on believing, something wonderful would happen. I will continue to keep on believing as I search for someone who could co-sign for my loan so I can check in for this semester. I know you'll send me the right person. Thank you for so much. I love you so much and I strive to live everyday for your glory. In Jesus' Mighty Name I pray, amen!!! (10:45 pm)

God Is Teaching Me.....

Well, I have to say it's been a good break. Now it is coming to a close and I'll be going back to LU soon. For now, it looks like I'm not going back but I'm not going to let that discourage me. I've come to far to get to this point and I'm not about to let my guard down for anything! God told me I'm going back to school and I believe Him. I'm taking Him at His word! A good thing happened to me yesterday. I was out and about running errands and I saw this poor guy laying down on someone's home steps. This was happening as I was waiting for my bus to come. I had ordered a little something from Checker's a little while ago and they had me waiting for a long time to pick it up. When they gave me my order, they gave me an extra burger for free. I thought, "Wow! That's a blessing!" I moseyed along to my stop shortly after that. I saw that guy just laying there and I received a little tug in my spirit. God wanted me to give him the extra burger I had. I obeyed God and gave it to the man. As he was eating the burger, he just looked at me. I smiled at him. He had this sense of calm on his face. It wasn't quite a "thank you" look but you could tell that he really appreciated it. When my bus came shortly after that, I just sat there, feeling so good that I did something for someone who was less fortunate that I was. It also made me realize this: I'm blessed beyond description! I thank God for teaching me patience, love, caring for others and the sense that I am blessed and I always will be. Why? Because I have Jesus living in me! You can't get any better than that!!

Dear Lord God, I thank you so much for all you've taught me over this blessed Christmas break. I thank you for teaching me patience, love, caring for others, the fact that I am blessed and for giving me a new song to sing. You buried the words deep within my heart and that's where they will always stay no matter what happens in this glorious adventure you've given me. Life is indeed a great adventure but nothing comes closer than living life with You, my Heavenly Father. Thank You for loving me despite how much I didn't deserve it. You sent Your precious Son Jesus to die for me so I could live a life You could be proud of. A life full of abundance, service and true worship to You. I love You, Lord. Thank You for everything! In the Name of Jesus Christ I pray, amen. (11:15 am)