Thursday, January 14, 2016

It's All Up To Me

Hey Friend,

It's 3:45 am. and the coffee is brewing.  I've read scripture and a devotional and now I find myself staring at this blank computer screen. 

I am not a stupid person.  I graduated summa cum laude from high school and magna cum laude from college.  I've handled some enormous administrative challenges, both in college and in work, and have come out smelling like a rose.  Why then, is this keeping me awake at night?

Currently, I am in the process of working with a wonderful Christian attorney (a gift from God) who is walking me through the process of applying for non profit, tax exempt/501c3 status for a ministry I have helped form.  The application is thicker than many books I've read.  (I'll spare you my thoughts on our government).  Understandably, though, they want to make sure that any tax exempt monies are not winding up in nefarious hands.  I get that.

So, in my usual M.O., I am leaving no stone unturned trying to answer all their questions, dispel any doubts, leave nothing to the imagination. I am trying to nail this sucker down.  My mind is always spinning with the question: What is the best way to present our ministry so that an IRS examiner will put our application in the acceptance pile?

After all, lives are depending on me...literally.  I have 32 impoverished, destitute, illiterate, hungry, innocent, and wide-eyed children counting on me.  (With many more on the waiting list).  Our ministry, Redeemer Christian Foundation, Inc. exists to "Promote the hope and love of Jesus Christ with people around the world with a particular focus on providing a Christian education to those who are impoverished, oppressed, or persecuted for their faith."

If I don't get this application approved, then people will not donate because they can't write it off on their taxes and these children will be hung out to dry.  I don't want that to happen...not on MY watch! 

The only problem, and it's a big one, is that our ministry operates in the epicenter of evil.  We are taking on Satan and the evil he stirs up, smack dab in the middle of his stomping grounds...the Middle East.  I want the IRS to see that we are not training up children to strap bombs on themselves...no, just the opposite, we are training them up to love in the way that Jesus loves.  We are on the same team...I have to make them see this. 

Just writing this leaves me exhausted!  When I look back over what I've written, I see the words, "I", "me", "my", "our".  This is when being smart is sometimes a curse.  I think that God, the One who created the universe and hung the stars in space, needs my help.  That's great God, that you are the great "I Am", but aren't you lucky that I'm here to help you out?

How vain, prideful, and downright silly is that?? (two day gap in writing)...

Needless to say, the two days away from my laptop, I truly crashed and burned.  I ran right into that wall that I always do....AGAIN.  If I'm so smart, why don't I ever learn??

So you will find favor and good repute in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and he will make your paths straight.  (Proverbs 3:4-6)

In other translations, the verse said:

"do not rely on...."

"do not depend on..."

"do not trust upon..."

I am hitting the ground, running furiously, because I think it's all up to me.  I have forgotten that the "Alpha and the Omega" has got a good handle on this.  The "Name above All Names" has a game plan that I can count on, if I would just let Him coach me up.  The "Good Shepherd" knows the needs of His sheep in the Middle East far better than I do, so why am I relying upon me? 

The Great I Am wants me to "rely on", "depend on", "trust upon", yes, "lean upon" HIS understanding not my own.

I remember, as a child, when we would spend lazy summers in a beautiful mountain home that my dad designed and built himself with our "help".  After furious rain storms, my dad would always want to go down to the lake and check to see that the dock and the boat were in tact and check on the property of others.  He was good that way. 

Begging to tag along, I went with him one evening.  It was still dusk as we headed down the path through the woods to the lake.  I'd walked this path thousands of times, so naturally I bounced off ahead of my dad.  After checking everything and buttoning down loose tarps and covers, we headed back up the hill.

This time it was pitch black.  My dad, always prepared, had a big flashlight.  Still in typical fashion I tried to run on ahead (after all, I KNEW this path).  That was until some tree roots and random rock outcroppings tripped me up and I wound up face first in the mud and dirt.  Calmly, my dad brushed me off, took my hand, and suggested I let Him lead the way.  Oh stubborn and silly girl that I am.

Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, "I am the Light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life."  (John 8:12)

Jesus promises the Light of Life to those who FOLLOW Him...not to those who, in their own might and wisdom, run on ahead.


Follow = imitate my example;
govern yourself by the dictates of God's Word and Spirit

If I continually run ahead in my own might and understanding, I am not imitating my Lord.  I can't be because I'm not following Him.

I can't be governing myself by the dictates of God's Word and Spirit if I'm not in His Word and calling upon His Spirit to LEAD me.

A wise friend reminded me that this battle belongs to the Lord.  If Redeemer Christian Foundation, Inc. getting 501c3 tax exempt status is in HIS will, then it can't be thwarted. 

The Lord will fight for me (us), I need only to be still.  ( Exodus 14:14 )

There was a reason that I was laid low in weakness this week.  It was so that when this victory happens...and I'm certain that it will...the glory will go to God and not to me. 

It's not all up to me to make the victory happen; but it's up to me to point to Whom the victory goes!

What about you?  Do you ever find yourself running on up ahead of the Lord?  What has been your experience?  If you have wisdom from the Lord to share...would you?

Dear Heavenly Father, please forgive me, once again, for taking matters into my own hands and leaning upon my own understanding.  Help me to see that this is YOUR battle, and these are YOUR children.  Enable me to hold your hand and FOLLOW your Light to guide me through the dark.  Your promises of love, and wisdom, and guidance are so very good.  You are a good, good, Father.  Help me to walk in Your footsteps.  The only way I can imitate You is to follow You.  Humble me in order that I might follow dear Lord. In the precious name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

Be blessed...


BOYS IN BOOTS
Your generous contributions at Christmas, gave these boys some waterproof boots for Christmas so that their feet will remain warm and dry as the weather turns wet and cold.

Redeemer Christian Foundation, Inc. exists to promote the hope and love of Jesus Christ around the world with a particular focus on providing a Christian education to those who are impoverished, oppressed, or persecuted for their faith.

We are enrolling, and people are sponsoring, new students who could benefit from some warm clothing this winter.  Would you consider making that happen??  Any amount you feel led to donate will help tremendously!!!

Send checks payable to:

Redeemer Christian Foundation, Inc.
103 Silver Lining Lane
Cary, NC  27513

**Include your email address because WHEN we get tax exempt status soon, ALL gifts during 2016 will be tax deductible and we will send you a year end receipt for tax purposes. 

28 comments:

  1. Bev, your call to this ministry is beautiful and inspiring! Nothing good comes easy, does it ...

    May you find Christ present in every decision, the Spirit whispering 'this is the way, walk ye in it.'

    Blessings as you follow, as you lead.

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    1. Linda,
      You hit the nail on the head...nothing good comes easy! Thank you for your beautiful blessing - may my ears be tuned in so that I may hear the Spirit whisper!
      Blessings and thanks,
      Bev

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  2. Bev, you have an amazing attitude and your words show your heart is determined to do an excellent job - not on your own but following God's lead. Like you say, it's a constant battle when the world is pulling us to behave one way and scripture reminds us to submit to God's way.

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    1. Rachel,
      Thanks for the cheering on, Rachel! You are so right...it is a constant battle - submitting to God's way vs. following our own agenda.
      Blessings,
      Bev

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  3. Thank you, Lord, for Bev's huge and compassionate heart. Please strengthen and encourage her in this process of laying groundwork for ministry that she wants to do for you. Establish her thoughts, open closed doors, and give her patience to endure the process, keeping the goal ever before her eyes.
    Amen.
    Blessings, Bev!

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    1. Michele,
      Thank you SO much for this beautiful prayer! Oh how I need prayers for patience and wisdom in my thoughts! This is a balm for my heart this morning!
      Blessings sweet friend,
      Bev

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  4. It's so nice to discover your blog at Dance With Jesus Link-Up! I pray that God will help work out all the details for you as you are pursuing his will and so I pray He would give you the desires of your heart. I heard a pastor say once, and it has always stuck with me, "If it's God's will it's His bill." Blessings to you!

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    1. Welcome Valerie!
      I love that saying!! I'm going to tuck that away in my heart so that when my wheels get to spinning - and they will- I can remember who's got this!
      Blessings and thanks,
      Bev

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  5. Oh Bev, I am so guilty of this. I over-analyze until I give myself a headache, trying to play out every possibility under the sun. God's got this, friend. Praying over this ministry and the steps you are taking for these dear children. You and your heart are a light shining in the darkness, and an inspiration to me. (hugs)

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    1. Abby,
      Over analyzing...I am the queen of doing that...and where does it get me? Nowhere! Thank you so much for your sincere prayers sweet fried. I so need them!
      Blessings and ((hugs)),
      Bev

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  6. Hi Bev, I am your neighbor over at Barbie Swihart's blog. Yes, I have tried to figure things out on my own and perhaps try to force God's Will into MY TIMING! Of course I want it my way, right? God help us. I have no doubt that as you release your grip and step back, things will move quickly and smoothly. I totally get it though -- I can relate. God bless your ministry!

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    1. Hi Beth in NC (it's really chilly out today...are we sure we're in NC?)
      Forcing God's will into my timing...I've tried that. It doesn't work too well! Thanks for the encouragement to release my grip and trust God to work.
      Blessings neighbor,
      Bev

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  7. What hoops you must jump through to create a ministry! Sadly our world restricts us, but fortunately we have the greatest Power on our side! I know He will open doors for you! Blessings!

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    1. Carrie,
      Yes, indeed, there are many hoops, but I keep reminding myself that God has this! Thanks for the reminder that we have the greatest Power working on our side!
      Blessings,
      Bev

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  8. I'm thinking of Paul, who worked tirelessly for Jesus. His efforts rarely resulted in easy success. It would seem God most often works through OUR work. Yet we must try to avoid obsession, which throws us off balance in other areas of our lives. My prayer would be: Lord, as Bev relies upon You through every step of this arduous process, I thank You that she can trust You to guide her clearly, to augment her efforts, and to pave the way for tax exempt status. In the name of our all-powerful, all-wise Jesus, Amen! We look forward with you to hearing the good news, "Tax-exempt status granted!"

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    1. Nancy,
      I always appreciate your wise words and insight! Avoiding obsession...that really applies here because it does throw you off balance. Thank you for your beautiful prayer...it is so appreciated!
      Blessings to you sweet friend,
      Bev

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  9. Bev, I am praying for God's favor and blessing as you rest in Him and walk through the process...it was so precious to see some Name Above All Names references in this post...thank you for stopping by my blog and being such a sweet encourager...many blessings to you ❤️

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    1. Beth,
      I have loved your series and it just seemed appropriate to call upon the many powerful and life-giving names of God. Sometimes I/we just need a reminder to see His many facets!
      Blessings to you,
      Bev xx

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  10. I am praying for you and believe God will make a way. He always equips the called.

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    1. Barbie,
      "He always equips the called." I will tuck this away in my heart to remember! Thank you for your prayers!
      Blessings,
      Bev

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  11. It's a hard lesson to learn not to run ahead of God...and what a disappointment to learn that He doesn't need me to tell Him what to do! :-) Clearly I've had to learn that lesson the hard way too. Praying for your application to get finished and approved in record time!

    PS - I didn't know you were in NC too!! xoxo

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    1. Holly,
      It sure doesn't feel like NC today??!! Oh how silly we are thinking that God needs our guidance. I, too, am learning the hard way how to continually wait upon His leading and seek His plan! Thank you for your prayers. I truly appreciate them!
      Blessings sister NC gal,
      Bev xx

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  12. I am praying for you! I understand your frustration here! Clearly the Lord will put wisdom in your writings and favor on your path. I hope to hear your testimony soon, Bev.
    Many Blessings to you

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    1. Ifeoma,
      Thank you so much for your prayers! I look forward to testifying to God's goodness in all of this!
      Blessings and thanks,
      Bev xx

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  13. You are doing God's work and you have aided in providing 32 children with a better life than they had before. That is the truth. God is in the details. He is by your side as you step out into the world of laws and regulations. He will honor this mission as you continue to honor Him.

    I know that leaning into God completely can be one the hardest things we do. I always think I know better. But God... He knows everything and He will lead the way if we just let go. Thank you for your vulnerability and willingness to teach us through what you are learning. I am praying for a clear mind for you and the strength to let go of all the details to God. Blessing and hugs friend!

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    1. Mary,
      Ahhh yes...the world of laws and regulations. I honestly believe that God would not have led us this far only to not complete what He has started. Oh how He is stretching my trust and patience muscles!! Like you said...I need to - have to - let it go!! God sees what I cannot and so I need to trust Him. Thanks so much for the encouragement sweet friend!
      Blessings,
      Bev xx

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  14. Bev,what a gift you must be to these youngsters. God bless you. I'll be praying for the tax exempt status. God's bigger than government bureaucracy. I look forward to hearing the end of this story...be sure to update when everything comes through. Have you considered putting a paypal button on your site? (I don't know what's involved with that, if there is a charge or anything, but it might be something to look into.) I'd love to donate. I'm in the triangle area as well...Would you be interested in meeting for coffee or lunch sometime? If you're unable to do that, I can put a check in the mail, no worries. Prayers for your ministry. My email is: bcbo@ChasingHoliness.com. Blessed to be neighboring you at Holley's place today. ((blessings))

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    1. Brenda,
      So glad you stopped by and thank you for praying for our tax exempt status. So true that God is bigger than government bureaucracy!! We are looking into PayPal and other ways that make online giving simple. I would LOVE to meet for coffee or lunch. Always great to meet and compare notes with a sister blogger! Just came from and love your site!
      With blessings and thanks,
      Bev xx

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I would really LOVE to hear from you!! Your thoughts, opinions, suggestions and prayer requests mean a lot to me.