Posted by: mhaley
on Oct 23, 2011
Creativity is not simply an artistic piece; it sends an image or message to our brain. The Most High God is the Source of all creativity--the Spirit gives life to it as seen in Creation (Genesis 1). God called for creativity when He began to fashion his House (Exodus 31:1-6). Certainly, we need to make sure our goal is to bring glory to God with the creative works of our hands. Did you know that at different times the Church--the people of God--set a standard for creative expression?
Posted by: mhaley
on Dec 17, 2010
I have missed sharing in this blog with you; it is time to get back to our Beatitude lessons. What do you think of when you hear the words "pure in heart?" I think of clean motives; righteous actions. Jesus said, "God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God." (Matt. 5:8) I, Mary, want to "see" God! I want to be able to discern his righteousness at work in me. As well, I want to be able to identify the Spirit of Christ--the Risen Savior--in and through others. I think that is what God meant; so I need to know how to keep my heart pure.
Posted by: mhaley
on Oct 21, 2010
If we really pay attention, we can sense the darkness of anxiety trying to have dominion in our daily lives. We wrestle anxiety in our minds and our emotions; anxiety affects our faith. Jacob testified to that "wrestling" thing! "And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day" (Gen. 32:24). Anxiety is a thief; it robs us of our strength. Why do we give anxiety any power in our lives? This lesson about Jacob reveals his reasons for anxiety; the power of loneliness, past sin and guilt, judgment, and fear of the unknown.
Posted by: mhaley
on Sep 07, 2010
Billy Graham once said, "Courage is contagious! When a brave man (woman) takes a stand, the spines of others are stiffened." As we get around other people who are busy listening to God and living for the truth of His love, our backbones grow in strength. Truth, God's Spirit, flowing courageously from others is inspiring. I guess each of us better ask ourselves, "Is my courage contagious?"
Posted by: mhaley
on Aug 30, 2010
The Holy Spirit gives every believer amazing spiritual gifts (1 Cor 12:4). These gifts are unique and diverse. I like to think of them as complementary gifts. You might ask, "Complementary to what, Mary?"
