Ephesians Week 6

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 Ephesians 5   5  1  Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children   2  and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 3  But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people.   4  Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.   5  For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. [ a ]   6  Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient.   7  Therefore do not be partners with them. 8  For you were once darkness, but now you are light i...
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Happy 40th Birthday to me!

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I really dreaded my 40th birthday. It's such a BIG birthday. My
husband and my friends made it really special. Birthday cakes, flowers, balloons, surprise lunch, surprise dinner-party, and other gifts. Most of all I appreciate their presents, not gifts, but time with me. Nothing is more important to me than the people in my life. God has taught me so much in my 40 years, but that is one of the things I really, really get. I am grateful that I don't struggle with keeping up with the Jones. I happily look for ways to save money and don't care if I don't have a $500 purse. I have learned... blood doesn't make family. I have some amazing sisters that grew up in different homes, but I love them dearly. You know who you are. (If you wonder if it is you, it is). I have learned to not judge God based upon my circumstances, but to judge my circumstances based upon who I know God to be. I have learned not to say "if only" for that leads me to be bitter with God. I have learned not to say "what if" for that leads me to be anxious. Through John-Michael's diagnosis, I have been given the gift of today. Today we are happy and healthy. I don't waste time ...don't doodle days away, but try to make each one count. We still have stuff happen. This past week our toilet broke and ruined part of the ceiling in the basement. I would rather have spent that money else where...but so grateful God provided a contractor at a great rate...great work. I have had time in my life where my depression was so bad that I had to take anti-depressants, where I shook my fist at God (still amazed He didn't zap me...just shows His amazing patience). I have had times that I cried for days and days, but that time is many years behind. This is due in large part to trusting God more..and myself less. Russell, my husband, gave me a great compliment on my birthday. He said, "you look a decade younger in your looks, and a decade older in your wisdom". Here's praying I keep that trend going.
Blessings,
Rachel

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  1. AnonymousMay 27, 2010 at 9:51 AM

    Happy 40th Birthday, Rachel!!! I'm so glad you were born and even more thankful that you were born again through Christ! You certainly are a very beautiful 40 year old... inside and out! I'm so thankful to be blessed by your encouraging blogs!
    -Vicki

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