1.23.2013
Sigma-beauty cheat sheet Go-To Guide
Here is my sigma-beauty cheat sheet or Go-To Guide for all you makeup beauty lovers who haven't heard of sigma-beauty these are great high quality brushes which are my favorites:
Large Angled Contour - F40
Foundation - F60
Concealer - F70
Eye Shading - E55
Flat Definer - E15
Blush Brush - F10
Blending Brush - E25
Large Shader - E60
Check them all out :
Affiliate link:http://www.sigmabeauty.com/?Click=18483
7.25.2012
4.16.2012
11.02.2011
Finding your way to flawless foundation..
Finding Your Way to Flawless Foundation...: Foundation is an essential step in the makeup application process, but many women struggle on finding the formula, shade or application method that is best for them. Here’s our suggestions for helping you buy and apply the foundation that is right for you. Get ready to achieve that flawless-faced look that you’re always after!
For starters – what’s the right foundation formula for you?
Foundation comes in many forms – liquid, mineral, compact powder, and cream (among others) so no wonder it can be such as task to figure out which one to buy! It might take some experimenting to find the formula that’s right for you, but here’s some pointers to help you get started:
· Liquid foundation hydrates, smoothes and provides medium to full-coverage. Great for all skin types.
· Mineral foundation goes on light, providing medium coverage. Best for normal to oily skin.
· Compact powder foundation gives light to medium coverage and is ideal for normal, combination, and oily skin.
· Cream foundation goes on smooth, providing medium to full coverage. Best for dry to normal skin.
*Always make sure to purchase oil-free products if you have oily skin or are prone to breakouts.
The second step in finding a foundation right for you is making sure to get the shade that best matches your skin tone. To get the just-right shade, do the following:
· Test the foundation color along your jawline, not on your hand like you might have been told in the past (your hand may yield a different color than your face)
· If possible, take home a few samples to try out; cosmetic counters in department stores will often offer a variety of samples for you to take home and test
· See yourself with the foundation on in natural light to make sure it’s the right shade
· Adjust the shade you choose based on the season and your daily exposure to sunlight
The last step is application, which really comes down to preference in terms of the tool you use. Depending on the type of formula, there are a variety of brushes to choose from.
Check out some of Sigma’s best-selling foundation brushes:
The Sigma Flat Top Synthetic Kabuki brush (F80) is compatible for all formulas and works great for dispersing product evenly
The Sigma Foundation brush (F60) works well with liquid or cream foundation
The Sigma Buffer brush (F45) is your go-to for mineral or compact powder foundations
Once you’ve picked your tool, it’s time to apply. Simply start from the middle of your face, working your way out in an upward motion, thoroughly blending the product as you go. (Note: blending should be emphasized along the jawline to prevent creating any visible lines). If you used a liquid or cream formula, finish with a dusting of loose face powder to set foundation.
For starters – what’s the right foundation formula for you?
Foundation comes in many forms – liquid, mineral, compact powder, and cream (among others) so no wonder it can be such as task to figure out which one to buy! It might take some experimenting to find the formula that’s right for you, but here’s some pointers to help you get started:
· Liquid foundation hydrates, smoothes and provides medium to full-coverage. Great for all skin types.
· Mineral foundation goes on light, providing medium coverage. Best for normal to oily skin.
· Compact powder foundation gives light to medium coverage and is ideal for normal, combination, and oily skin.
· Cream foundation goes on smooth, providing medium to full coverage. Best for dry to normal skin.
*Always make sure to purchase oil-free products if you have oily skin or are prone to breakouts.
The second step in finding a foundation right for you is making sure to get the shade that best matches your skin tone. To get the just-right shade, do the following:
· Test the foundation color along your jawline, not on your hand like you might have been told in the past (your hand may yield a different color than your face)
· If possible, take home a few samples to try out; cosmetic counters in department stores will often offer a variety of samples for you to take home and test
· See yourself with the foundation on in natural light to make sure it’s the right shade
· Adjust the shade you choose based on the season and your daily exposure to sunlight
The last step is application, which really comes down to preference in terms of the tool you use. Depending on the type of formula, there are a variety of brushes to choose from.
Check out some of Sigma’s best-selling foundation brushes:
The Sigma Flat Top Synthetic Kabuki brush (F80) is compatible for all formulas and works great for dispersing product evenly
The Sigma Foundation brush (F60) works well with liquid or cream foundation
The Sigma Buffer brush (F45) is your go-to for mineral or compact powder foundations
Once you’ve picked your tool, it’s time to apply. Simply start from the middle of your face, working your way out in an upward motion, thoroughly blending the product as you go. (Note: blending should be emphasized along the jawline to prevent creating any visible lines). If you used a liquid or cream formula, finish with a dusting of loose face powder to set foundation.
10.10.2011
NEW! Sigma Synthetic Essential Kit.
Good afternoon dolls check this out Sigma beauty just launched there NEW! Synthetic Essential Kit to make your special purchase " order " just click on this Link here --> http://www.sigmabeauty.com/?Click=18483 Don't miss out this special offer today because with your purchase you will recevie a FREE gift with your order so order Now!2.10.2011
I'm a Sigma Representative :)
I'm a sigma beauty representative please check out the deals and make you're purchase of $30.00 and more and you will receive a FREE Gift. also check out my favorite brushes & kits only at http://www.sigmabeauty.com/?Click=18483
Veronica
Veronica
2.09.2011
Sigma's Valentines Day Special Deals!
Valentines day is just around the corner so make your purchase of $ 30.00 and ^ and you will Recieve a FREE GIFT just by Getting my favorite makeup brushes here : http://www.sigmabeauty.com/?Click=18483 also ships worldwide.
2.01.2011
AQUA CHARMS!
Are you looking for phone cases for you're phone well here is you're chance on getting one today by trying aqua charms phone cases click here
1.27.2011
♚MAKE UR SIGMA PURCAHSE OF $ 30+ AND UP AND RECIEVE A FREE GIFT! ALSO SHIPS WORLDWIDE. Click-->http://www.sigmabeauty.com/?Click=18483
1.21.2011
you're beautiful
You’re looking beautiful today ツ
(Don’t let anyone tell you different.)
Smile because this Panda thinks you’re cute & wants you to always remember that you are enough, Unique just the way you are!
(Pass it along.)
www.operationbeautiful.com
(Don’t let anyone tell you different.)
Smile because this Panda thinks you’re cute & wants you to always remember that you are enough, Unique just the way you are!
(Pass it along.)
www.operationbeautiful.com
10.20.2010
Sigma Brushes For All You Beauty's
Hello Dolls, Purchase your sigma brushes today and recieve a FREE gift with your order just click link below and have a happy shopping day!
Clickk ---> Sigma Beauty
Clickk ---> Sigma Beauty
8.04.2010
5.24.2010
Operation Beautiful
About Operation Beautiful…
Caitlin, is the editor of Operation Beautiful. The mission of Operation Beautiful is to post anonymous notes in public places for other women to find. The point is that WE ARE ALL BEAUTIFUL. You are enough... just the way you are!
The goal of the Operation Beautiful website is to end negative self-talk or “Fat Talk.” If this little blog only does one productive thing, I hope it helps readers realize how truly toxic negative self-talk is — it hurts you emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
In Caitlin's words she explains - "Through my own experiences fighting Fat Talk, I’ve realized the power behind an anonymous act such as Operation Beautiful. When I post a note, I’m saying, “I CHOOSE to be positive!”
She began Operation Beautiful by leaving positive messages on the mirrors of public restrooms — at work, at the gym, at the grocery store. She explains “I scribble down whatever comes to mind — "You are beautiful!" or "You are amazing just the way you are!" My personal goal is to leave as many Operation Beautiful notes as I can. Maybe some people read them and just smile, but I bet some people are truly touched by the effort of a random stranger.
Operation Beautiful is simple: all you need is a pen and a piece of paper or sticky post-It's. If you want to join the mission, send her an e-mail at seebriderun@gmail.com with a photograph of your Operation Beautiful note or a description of your experience, and She’ll post it on the Operation Beautiful site for thousands of others to read and enjoy!
So Let's Start leaving positive messages on the mirrors of public restrooms — at work, at the gym, at the grocery store. in the gym locker room, or even on a random car’s windshield, stores, etc. If you want, you can write the web address http://www.OperationBeautiful.com on the bottom so other women can find the site!
Caitlin, is the editor of Operation Beautiful. The mission of Operation Beautiful is to post anonymous notes in public places for other women to find. The point is that WE ARE ALL BEAUTIFUL. You are enough... just the way you are!
The goal of the Operation Beautiful website is to end negative self-talk or “Fat Talk.” If this little blog only does one productive thing, I hope it helps readers realize how truly toxic negative self-talk is — it hurts you emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
In Caitlin's words she explains - "Through my own experiences fighting Fat Talk, I’ve realized the power behind an anonymous act such as Operation Beautiful. When I post a note, I’m saying, “I CHOOSE to be positive!”
She began Operation Beautiful by leaving positive messages on the mirrors of public restrooms — at work, at the gym, at the grocery store. She explains “I scribble down whatever comes to mind — "You are beautiful!" or "You are amazing just the way you are!" My personal goal is to leave as many Operation Beautiful notes as I can. Maybe some people read them and just smile, but I bet some people are truly touched by the effort of a random stranger.
Operation Beautiful is simple: all you need is a pen and a piece of paper or sticky post-It's. If you want to join the mission, send her an e-mail at seebriderun@gmail.com with a photograph of your Operation Beautiful note or a description of your experience, and She’ll post it on the Operation Beautiful site for thousands of others to read and enjoy!
So Let's Start leaving positive messages on the mirrors of public restrooms — at work, at the gym, at the grocery store. in the gym locker room, or even on a random car’s windshield, stores, etc. If you want, you can write the web address http://www.OperationBeautiful.com on the bottom so other women can find the site!
2.11.2010
Rock and Jewels
Rock and Jewels
Rock – Stone, relatively hard
Jewel – A precious stone, one that is treasured
I Corinthians 3:11- tells us that no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. Our stone, our Rock - Jesus which is the foundation which we build our house upon for we know if the rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against us; we would not fall, because we have a foundation on the rock. (Matthew 7:25)
When our foundation is solid and we are standing upon the rock, is when we will discover the true beauty in which we were created. We were created as precious stones - Jewels. On the day we were created our setting and mountings were made of gold and prepared for us (Ezekial 28:13). I couldn't help but think about how symbolic the wedding ring is when I read this verse. The ring; a representation of covenant and how the Jewel (diamond) is mounted and set upon the band of the ring.
A jewel's characteristics is based upon many different attributes...here are a few:
Light bending ability – allows the diamond to throw back almost all of the light which enters it. We have the ability to reflect, to throw back the light that enters us onto others. When we allow love to enter us then we will reflect and throw back that love to others. When grace and mercy enters us then we have the ability to reflect that onto others.
Cut – the cut of the diamond gives it a unique sparkle. No diamond can be truly attractive unless it sparkles, and it won't sparkle unless it's properly cut. God will give us our own unique sparkle when we allow Him to cut and define us instead of man.
Clarity - the clarity of a diamond is how flawless the diamond is. The more transparent we become the more ability we have to reflect the light that enters us.
Color Variations – nearly all rubies are treated with heat to improve color and clarity. The temperature of the heat all depends on what type of jewel we are and how we allow that heat to effect us. My heat temperature may not be set at the same temperature as your heat but the outcome of why we are being placed in the heat is the same. We must all go through the heat (trials and tribulations) to see the good work that He has accomplished (Romans 8:28)
In building a church (not a building, but a people) we must first begin with the Rock, the foundation which is Jesus. Inside this church, the discovery of all the many different kinds of Jewels that it possess. Made all different and unique with many different shapes, sizes, colors, cut and clarity but all needed to make it a beautiful creation. Treasure yourself, for you are a Jewel, created with the ability to reflect the Glory of God, so stand upon your Rock and let your light shine!
Rock – Stone, relatively hard
Jewel – A precious stone, one that is treasured
I Corinthians 3:11- tells us that no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. Our stone, our Rock - Jesus which is the foundation which we build our house upon for we know if the rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against us; we would not fall, because we have a foundation on the rock. (Matthew 7:25)
When our foundation is solid and we are standing upon the rock, is when we will discover the true beauty in which we were created. We were created as precious stones - Jewels. On the day we were created our setting and mountings were made of gold and prepared for us (Ezekial 28:13). I couldn't help but think about how symbolic the wedding ring is when I read this verse. The ring; a representation of covenant and how the Jewel (diamond) is mounted and set upon the band of the ring.
A jewel's characteristics is based upon many different attributes...here are a few:
Light bending ability – allows the diamond to throw back almost all of the light which enters it. We have the ability to reflect, to throw back the light that enters us onto others. When we allow love to enter us then we will reflect and throw back that love to others. When grace and mercy enters us then we have the ability to reflect that onto others.
Cut – the cut of the diamond gives it a unique sparkle. No diamond can be truly attractive unless it sparkles, and it won't sparkle unless it's properly cut. God will give us our own unique sparkle when we allow Him to cut and define us instead of man.
Clarity - the clarity of a diamond is how flawless the diamond is. The more transparent we become the more ability we have to reflect the light that enters us.
Color Variations – nearly all rubies are treated with heat to improve color and clarity. The temperature of the heat all depends on what type of jewel we are and how we allow that heat to effect us. My heat temperature may not be set at the same temperature as your heat but the outcome of why we are being placed in the heat is the same. We must all go through the heat (trials and tribulations) to see the good work that He has accomplished (Romans 8:28)
In building a church (not a building, but a people) we must first begin with the Rock, the foundation which is Jesus. Inside this church, the discovery of all the many different kinds of Jewels that it possess. Made all different and unique with many different shapes, sizes, colors, cut and clarity but all needed to make it a beautiful creation. Treasure yourself, for you are a Jewel, created with the ability to reflect the Glory of God, so stand upon your Rock and let your light shine!
10.12.2009
sometimes
"Sometimes you have to take a step back & realize what's important in your life, what you can live with, but most importantly, what you can't live without."
9.29.2009
My Heart Christ's Home
My Heart Christ's Home
Original text by - Robert Boyd Munger
"If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him
and make our home with him." [John 14:23, NIV]
One evening I invited Jesus Christ into my heart. What an entrance He made! It was not a spectacular, emotional thing, but very real. Something happened at the very center of my life. He came into the darkness of my heart and turned on the light. He built a fire on the hearth and banished the chill. He started music where there had been stillness, and He filled the emptiness with His own loving, wonderful fellowship. I have never regretted opening the door to Christ and I never will.
In the joy of this new relationship I said to Jesus Christ, "Lord, I want this heart of mine to be Yours. I want to have You settle down here and be perfectly at home. Everything I have belongs to You. Let me show You around."
The Study
The first room was the study - the library. In my home this room of the mind is a very small room with very thick walls. But it is a very important room. In a sense, it is the control room of the house. He entered with me and looked around at the books in the bookcase, the magazines upon the table, the pictures on the walls. As I followed His gaze I became uncomfortable.
Strangely, I had not felt self-conscious about this before, but now that He was there looking at these things I was embarrassed. Some books were there that His eyes were too pure to behold. On the table were a few magazines that a Christian had no business reading. As for the pictures on the walls - the imaginations and thoughts of the mind - some of these were shameful.
Red-faced, I turned to Him and said, "Master, I know that this room needs to be cleaned up and made over. Will You help me make it what it ought to be?"
"Certainly!" He said. "I'm glad to help you. First of all, take all the things that you are reading and looking at which are not helpful, pure, good and true, and throw them out! Now put on the empty shelves the books of the Bible. Fill the library with Scripture and meditate on it day and night. As for the pictures on the walls, you will have difficulty controlling these images, but I have something that will help." He gave me a full-size portrait of Himself. "Hang this centrally," He said, "on the wall of the mind."
I did, and I have discovered through the years that when my thoughts are centered upon Christ Himself, His purity and power cause impure thoughts to back away. So He has helped me to bring my thoughts under His control.
The Dining Room
From the study we went into the dining room, the room of appetites and desires. I spent a lot of time and hard work here trying to satisfy my wants.
I said to Him, "This is a favorite room. I am quite sure You will be pleased with what we serve."
He seated Himself at the table with me and asked, "What is on the menu for dinner?" "Well," I said, "my favorite dishes: money, academic degrees and stocks, with newspaper articles of fame and fortune as side dishes." These were the things I liked - secular fare.
When the food was placed before Him, He said nothing, but I observed that He did not eat it. I said to Him, "Master, don't You care for this food? What is the trouble?"
He answered, "I have food to eat that you do not know of. If you want food that really satisfies you, do the will of the Father. Stop seeking your own pleasures, desires, and satisfaction. Seek to please Him. That food will satisfy you."
There at the table He gave me a taste of the joy of doing God's will. What flavor! There is no food like it in all the world. It alone satisfies.
The Living Room
From the dining room we walked into the living room. This room was intimate and comfortable. I liked it. It had a fireplace, overstuffed chairs, a sofa, and a quiet atmosphere.
He said, "This is indeed a delightful room. Let us come here often. It is secluded and quiet, and we can fellowship together."
Well, as a young Christian I was thrilled. I couldn't think of anything I would rather do than have a few minutes with Christ in close companionship.
He promised, "I will be here early every morning. Meet me here, and we will start the day together."
So morning after morning, I would come downstairs to the living room. He would take a book of the Bible from the case. We would open it and read together. He would unfold to me the wonder of God's saving truths. My heart sang as He shared the love and the grace He had toward me. These were wonderful times.
However, little by little, under the pressure of many responsibilities, this time began to be shortened. Why, I'm not sure. I thought I was too busy to spend regular time with Christ. This was not intentional, you understand. It just happened that way. Finally, not only was the time shortened, but I began to miss days now and then. Urgent matters would crowd out the quiet times of conversation with Jesus.
I remember one morning rushing downstairs, eager to be on my way. I passed the living room and noticed that the door was open.
Looking in, I saw a fire in the fireplace and Jesus was sitting there. Suddenly in dismay I thought to myself, "He is my guest. I invited Him into my heart! He has come as my Savior and Friend, and yet I am neglecting Him."
I stopped, turned and hesitantly went in. With downcast glance, I said, "Master, forgive me. Have You been here all these mornings?"
"Yes," He said, "I told you I would be here every morning to meet with you. Remember, I love you. I have redeemed you at great cost. I value your fellowship. Even if you cannot keep the quiet time for your own sake, do it for mine."
The truth that Christ desires my companionship, that He wants me to be with Him and waits for me, has done more to transform my quiet time with God than any other single fact. Don't let Christ wait alone in the living room of your heart, but every day find time when, with your Bible and in prayer, you may be together with Him.
The Workroom
Before long, He asked, "Do you have a workroom in your home?" Out in the garage of the home of my heart I had a workbench and some equipment, but I was not doing much with it. Once in a while I would play around with a few little gadgets, but I wasn't producing anything substantial.
I led Him out there. He looked over the workbench and said, "Well, this is quite well furnished. What are you producing with your life for the Kingdom of God?" He looked at one or two little toys that I had thrown together on the bench and held one up to me. "Is this the sort of thing you are doing for others in your Christian life?"
"Well," I said, "Lord, I know it isn't much, and I really want to do more, but after all, I don't seem to have strength or skill to do more."
"Would you like to do better?" He asked.
"Certainly," I replied.
"All right. Let me have your hands. Now relax in me and let my Spirit work through you. I know that you are unskilled, clumsy and awkward, but the Holy Spirit is the Master Workman, and if He controls your hands and your heart, He will work through you." Stepping around behind me and putting His great, strong hands under mine, He held the tools in His skilled fingers and began to work through me. The more I relaxed and trusted Him, the more He was able to do with my life.
The Rec Room
He asked me if I had a rec room where I went for fun and fellowship. I was hoping He would not ask about that. There were certain associations and activities that I wanted to keep for myself.
One evening when I was on my way out with some of my buddies, He stopped me with a glance and asked, "Are you going out?"
I replied, "Yes."
"Good," He said, "I would like to go with you."
"Oh," I answered rather awkwardly. "I don't think, Lord Jesus, that You would really enjoy where we are going. Let's go out together tomorrow night. Tomorrow night we will go to a Bible class at church, but tonight I have another appointment."
"I'm sorry," He said. "I thought that when I came into your home, we were going to do everything together, to be close companions. I just want you to know that I am willing to go with you."
"Well," I mumbled, slipping out the door, "we will go someplace together tomorrow night."
That evening I spent some miserable hours. I felt rotten. What kind of friend was I to Jesus, deliberately leaving Him out of my life, doing things and going places that I knew very well He would not enjoy?
When I returned that evening, there was a light in His room, and I went up to talk it over with Him. I said, "Lord, I have learned my lesson. I know now that I can't have a good time without You. From now on, we will do everything together."
Then we went down into the rec room of the house. He transformed it. He brought new friends, new excitement, new joys. Laughter and music have been ringing through the house ever since.
The Hall Closet
One day I found Him waiting for me at the door. An arresting look was in His eye. As I entered, He said to me, "There is a peculiar odor in the house. Something must be dead around here. It's upstairs. I think it is in the hall closet."
As soon as He said this, I knew what He was talking about. There was a small closet up there on the hall landing, just a few feet square. In that closet, behind lock and key, I had one or two little personal things that I did not want anyone to know about. Certainly, I did not want Christ to see them. I knew they were dead and rotting things left over from the old life. I wanted them so for myself that I was afraid to admit they were there.
Reluctantly, I went up with Him, and as we mounted the stairs the odor became stronger and stronger. He pointed to the door. I was angry. That's the only way I can put it. I had given Him access to the library, the dining room, the living room, the workroom, the rec room, and now He was asking me about a little two-by-four closet. I said to myself, "This is too much. I am not going to give Him the key."
"Well," He said, reading my thoughts, "if you think I'm going to stay up here on the second floor with this smell, you are mistaken. I will go out on the porch." Then I saw Him start down the stairs.
When one comes to know and love Christ, the worst thing that can happen is to sense Him withdrawing His fellowship. I had to give in.
"I'll give You the key," I said sadly, "but You will have to open the closet and clean it out. I haven't the strength to do it."
"Just give me the key," He said. "Authorize me to take care of that closet and I will."
With trembling fingers I passed the key to Him. He took it, walked over to the door, opened it, entered, took out all the putrefying stuff that was rotting there, and threw it away. Then He cleaned the closet and painted it. It was done in a moment's time. Oh, what victory and release to have that dead thing out of my life!
Transferring the Title
A thought came to me. "Lord, is there any chance that You would take over the management of the whole house and operate it for me as You did that closet? Would You take the responsibility to keep my life what it ought to be?"
His face lit up as He replied, "I'd love to! That is what I want to do. You cannot be a victorious Christian in your own strength. Let me do it through you and for you. That is the way. But," He added slowly, "I am just a guest. I have no authority to proceed, since the property is not mine."
Dropping to my knees, I said, "Lord, You have been a guest and I have been the host. From now on I am going to be the servant. You are going to be the owner and Master."
Running as fast as I could to the strongbox, I took out the title deed to the house describing its assets and liabilities, location and situation. I eagerly signed the house over to Him alone for time and eternity. "Here," I said. "Here it is, all that I am and have, forever. Now You run the house. I'll just remain with You as a servant and friend."
Things are different since Jesus Christ has settled down and has made His home in my heart.
Original text by - Robert Boyd Munger
"If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him
and make our home with him." [John 14:23, NIV]
One evening I invited Jesus Christ into my heart. What an entrance He made! It was not a spectacular, emotional thing, but very real. Something happened at the very center of my life. He came into the darkness of my heart and turned on the light. He built a fire on the hearth and banished the chill. He started music where there had been stillness, and He filled the emptiness with His own loving, wonderful fellowship. I have never regretted opening the door to Christ and I never will.
In the joy of this new relationship I said to Jesus Christ, "Lord, I want this heart of mine to be Yours. I want to have You settle down here and be perfectly at home. Everything I have belongs to You. Let me show You around."
The Study
The first room was the study - the library. In my home this room of the mind is a very small room with very thick walls. But it is a very important room. In a sense, it is the control room of the house. He entered with me and looked around at the books in the bookcase, the magazines upon the table, the pictures on the walls. As I followed His gaze I became uncomfortable.
Strangely, I had not felt self-conscious about this before, but now that He was there looking at these things I was embarrassed. Some books were there that His eyes were too pure to behold. On the table were a few magazines that a Christian had no business reading. As for the pictures on the walls - the imaginations and thoughts of the mind - some of these were shameful.
Red-faced, I turned to Him and said, "Master, I know that this room needs to be cleaned up and made over. Will You help me make it what it ought to be?"
"Certainly!" He said. "I'm glad to help you. First of all, take all the things that you are reading and looking at which are not helpful, pure, good and true, and throw them out! Now put on the empty shelves the books of the Bible. Fill the library with Scripture and meditate on it day and night. As for the pictures on the walls, you will have difficulty controlling these images, but I have something that will help." He gave me a full-size portrait of Himself. "Hang this centrally," He said, "on the wall of the mind."
I did, and I have discovered through the years that when my thoughts are centered upon Christ Himself, His purity and power cause impure thoughts to back away. So He has helped me to bring my thoughts under His control.
The Dining Room
From the study we went into the dining room, the room of appetites and desires. I spent a lot of time and hard work here trying to satisfy my wants.
I said to Him, "This is a favorite room. I am quite sure You will be pleased with what we serve."
He seated Himself at the table with me and asked, "What is on the menu for dinner?" "Well," I said, "my favorite dishes: money, academic degrees and stocks, with newspaper articles of fame and fortune as side dishes." These were the things I liked - secular fare.
When the food was placed before Him, He said nothing, but I observed that He did not eat it. I said to Him, "Master, don't You care for this food? What is the trouble?"
He answered, "I have food to eat that you do not know of. If you want food that really satisfies you, do the will of the Father. Stop seeking your own pleasures, desires, and satisfaction. Seek to please Him. That food will satisfy you."
There at the table He gave me a taste of the joy of doing God's will. What flavor! There is no food like it in all the world. It alone satisfies.
The Living Room
From the dining room we walked into the living room. This room was intimate and comfortable. I liked it. It had a fireplace, overstuffed chairs, a sofa, and a quiet atmosphere.
He said, "This is indeed a delightful room. Let us come here often. It is secluded and quiet, and we can fellowship together."
Well, as a young Christian I was thrilled. I couldn't think of anything I would rather do than have a few minutes with Christ in close companionship.
He promised, "I will be here early every morning. Meet me here, and we will start the day together."
So morning after morning, I would come downstairs to the living room. He would take a book of the Bible from the case. We would open it and read together. He would unfold to me the wonder of God's saving truths. My heart sang as He shared the love and the grace He had toward me. These were wonderful times.
However, little by little, under the pressure of many responsibilities, this time began to be shortened. Why, I'm not sure. I thought I was too busy to spend regular time with Christ. This was not intentional, you understand. It just happened that way. Finally, not only was the time shortened, but I began to miss days now and then. Urgent matters would crowd out the quiet times of conversation with Jesus.
I remember one morning rushing downstairs, eager to be on my way. I passed the living room and noticed that the door was open.
Looking in, I saw a fire in the fireplace and Jesus was sitting there. Suddenly in dismay I thought to myself, "He is my guest. I invited Him into my heart! He has come as my Savior and Friend, and yet I am neglecting Him."
I stopped, turned and hesitantly went in. With downcast glance, I said, "Master, forgive me. Have You been here all these mornings?"
"Yes," He said, "I told you I would be here every morning to meet with you. Remember, I love you. I have redeemed you at great cost. I value your fellowship. Even if you cannot keep the quiet time for your own sake, do it for mine."
The truth that Christ desires my companionship, that He wants me to be with Him and waits for me, has done more to transform my quiet time with God than any other single fact. Don't let Christ wait alone in the living room of your heart, but every day find time when, with your Bible and in prayer, you may be together with Him.
The Workroom
Before long, He asked, "Do you have a workroom in your home?" Out in the garage of the home of my heart I had a workbench and some equipment, but I was not doing much with it. Once in a while I would play around with a few little gadgets, but I wasn't producing anything substantial.
I led Him out there. He looked over the workbench and said, "Well, this is quite well furnished. What are you producing with your life for the Kingdom of God?" He looked at one or two little toys that I had thrown together on the bench and held one up to me. "Is this the sort of thing you are doing for others in your Christian life?"
"Well," I said, "Lord, I know it isn't much, and I really want to do more, but after all, I don't seem to have strength or skill to do more."
"Would you like to do better?" He asked.
"Certainly," I replied.
"All right. Let me have your hands. Now relax in me and let my Spirit work through you. I know that you are unskilled, clumsy and awkward, but the Holy Spirit is the Master Workman, and if He controls your hands and your heart, He will work through you." Stepping around behind me and putting His great, strong hands under mine, He held the tools in His skilled fingers and began to work through me. The more I relaxed and trusted Him, the more He was able to do with my life.
The Rec Room
He asked me if I had a rec room where I went for fun and fellowship. I was hoping He would not ask about that. There were certain associations and activities that I wanted to keep for myself.
One evening when I was on my way out with some of my buddies, He stopped me with a glance and asked, "Are you going out?"
I replied, "Yes."
"Good," He said, "I would like to go with you."
"Oh," I answered rather awkwardly. "I don't think, Lord Jesus, that You would really enjoy where we are going. Let's go out together tomorrow night. Tomorrow night we will go to a Bible class at church, but tonight I have another appointment."
"I'm sorry," He said. "I thought that when I came into your home, we were going to do everything together, to be close companions. I just want you to know that I am willing to go with you."
"Well," I mumbled, slipping out the door, "we will go someplace together tomorrow night."
That evening I spent some miserable hours. I felt rotten. What kind of friend was I to Jesus, deliberately leaving Him out of my life, doing things and going places that I knew very well He would not enjoy?
When I returned that evening, there was a light in His room, and I went up to talk it over with Him. I said, "Lord, I have learned my lesson. I know now that I can't have a good time without You. From now on, we will do everything together."
Then we went down into the rec room of the house. He transformed it. He brought new friends, new excitement, new joys. Laughter and music have been ringing through the house ever since.
The Hall Closet
One day I found Him waiting for me at the door. An arresting look was in His eye. As I entered, He said to me, "There is a peculiar odor in the house. Something must be dead around here. It's upstairs. I think it is in the hall closet."
As soon as He said this, I knew what He was talking about. There was a small closet up there on the hall landing, just a few feet square. In that closet, behind lock and key, I had one or two little personal things that I did not want anyone to know about. Certainly, I did not want Christ to see them. I knew they were dead and rotting things left over from the old life. I wanted them so for myself that I was afraid to admit they were there.
Reluctantly, I went up with Him, and as we mounted the stairs the odor became stronger and stronger. He pointed to the door. I was angry. That's the only way I can put it. I had given Him access to the library, the dining room, the living room, the workroom, the rec room, and now He was asking me about a little two-by-four closet. I said to myself, "This is too much. I am not going to give Him the key."
"Well," He said, reading my thoughts, "if you think I'm going to stay up here on the second floor with this smell, you are mistaken. I will go out on the porch." Then I saw Him start down the stairs.
When one comes to know and love Christ, the worst thing that can happen is to sense Him withdrawing His fellowship. I had to give in.
"I'll give You the key," I said sadly, "but You will have to open the closet and clean it out. I haven't the strength to do it."
"Just give me the key," He said. "Authorize me to take care of that closet and I will."
With trembling fingers I passed the key to Him. He took it, walked over to the door, opened it, entered, took out all the putrefying stuff that was rotting there, and threw it away. Then He cleaned the closet and painted it. It was done in a moment's time. Oh, what victory and release to have that dead thing out of my life!
Transferring the Title
A thought came to me. "Lord, is there any chance that You would take over the management of the whole house and operate it for me as You did that closet? Would You take the responsibility to keep my life what it ought to be?"
His face lit up as He replied, "I'd love to! That is what I want to do. You cannot be a victorious Christian in your own strength. Let me do it through you and for you. That is the way. But," He added slowly, "I am just a guest. I have no authority to proceed, since the property is not mine."
Dropping to my knees, I said, "Lord, You have been a guest and I have been the host. From now on I am going to be the servant. You are going to be the owner and Master."
Running as fast as I could to the strongbox, I took out the title deed to the house describing its assets and liabilities, location and situation. I eagerly signed the house over to Him alone for time and eternity. "Here," I said. "Here it is, all that I am and have, forever. Now You run the house. I'll just remain with You as a servant and friend."
Things are different since Jesus Christ has settled down and has made His home in my heart.
7.29.2009
PSALM 46
1.)GOD IS OUR REFUGE AND STRENGTH, AN EVER-PRESENT HELP IN TROUBLE.
2.)THEREFORE WE WILL NOT FEAR, THOUGH THE EARTH GIVE WAY AND THE MOUNTAINS FALL INTO THE HEART OF THE SEA,
3.)THOUGH ITS WATERS ROAR AND FOAM AND MOUNTAINS QUAKE WITH THEIR SURGING.
4.)THERE IS A RIVER WHOSE STREAMS MAKE GLAD THE CITY OF GOD, THE HOLY PLACE WHERE THE MOST HIGH DWELLS.
5.)GOD IS WITHIN HER, SHE WILL NOT FALL; GOD WILL HELP HER AT BREAK OF DAY.
6.)NATIONS ARE IN UPROAR, KINGDOMS FALL; HE LIFTS HIS VOICE, THE EARTH MELTS.
8.)COME AND SEE THE WORKS OF THE LORD, THE DESOLATIONS HE HAS BROUGHT ON THE EARTH.
9.)HE MAKES WARS CEASE TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH; HE BREAKS THE BOW AND SHATTERS THE SPEAR,HE BURNS THE SHIELDS WITH FIRE.
10.)BE STILL, AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD; I WILL BE EXALTED AMONG THE NATIONS,I WILL BE EXALTED IN THE EARTH.
2.)THEREFORE WE WILL NOT FEAR, THOUGH THE EARTH GIVE WAY AND THE MOUNTAINS FALL INTO THE HEART OF THE SEA,
3.)THOUGH ITS WATERS ROAR AND FOAM AND MOUNTAINS QUAKE WITH THEIR SURGING.
4.)THERE IS A RIVER WHOSE STREAMS MAKE GLAD THE CITY OF GOD, THE HOLY PLACE WHERE THE MOST HIGH DWELLS.
5.)GOD IS WITHIN HER, SHE WILL NOT FALL; GOD WILL HELP HER AT BREAK OF DAY.
6.)NATIONS ARE IN UPROAR, KINGDOMS FALL; HE LIFTS HIS VOICE, THE EARTH MELTS.
8.)COME AND SEE THE WORKS OF THE LORD, THE DESOLATIONS HE HAS BROUGHT ON THE EARTH.
9.)HE MAKES WARS CEASE TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH; HE BREAKS THE BOW AND SHATTERS THE SPEAR,HE BURNS THE SHIELDS WITH FIRE.
10.)BE STILL, AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD; I WILL BE EXALTED AMONG THE NATIONS,I WILL BE EXALTED IN THE EARTH.
5.21.2009
A psalm. For giving thanks.
PSALM 100
(1) Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.
(2) Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.
(3) Know that the Lord is God.It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
(4) Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.
(5) For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
5.15.2009
Watch your thoughts,for it becomes your destiny
Watch your thoughts, for they become words.Watch your words, for they become actions.Watch your actions, for they become habits.Watch your habits, for they become character.Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.
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