Are You Comfortable In Church? February 6, 2009

Do You Feel Comfortable In Church? If your answer is no, then I have some good news for you. Do you have a problem with organized religion? Then I have good news for you too. Jesus wants a personal relationship with you, not a religion.

I am so pleased to announce the beginning of a brand new God inspired web-site–www.TimeWithChrist.org. It is so amazing how God works things out. Like a puzzle, pieces just fall into place right on time. My dear friend and ex-boss (odd combo I know) works for the Salvation Army. She is the Director of Homeless Services. Valerie finds herself in many meetings when not being a first responder or running the men’s homeless shelter.

Recently, at one such meeting she met a spirit filled young man who told her about God’s call on his life. He is a commercial airplane pilot and in his ‘ground time’ he is being obedient to the call. He has started a web-site called www.timewithchrist.org.

 Because of my connection with Valerie I contributed a couple of stories to his site. From there we all began to talk about the purpose of the site. Valerie and I both are now Board Members for the ministry, contributing writers and prayer warriors as well.

 A relationship with Christ is so much more than “religion” as today’s society sees it. Being a Christian is all about a personal relationship with Christ, not a man made religion. This is the focus of the web site–to clear up this mis-understanding and to reach those who can’t get past the “religion” to find themselves in church.

 Visit the site–invite people you know who need to hear this message. I am very excited to see where God will take this, and how He will work it all for good, bringing sheep into the fold–right into the arms of Christ. www.timewithchrist.org

 Sincerely–I hope to see you there. Sign Up!!

 Angela

Relinquish Control January 20, 2009

Surrender-Heaven Rules

God is in control.

“………….. your kingdom will be restored to you when you acknowledge that Heaven rules”. (Daniel 4:26 NIV)

“I didn’t hear you buzz.” I said to my Mother on the phone.

 “I buzzed ‘yahoo’ several times, it looks like you are online but you are not answering me.” She said.

“Well, I must have a sound problem. I’ll have to call tech support if I can’t fix it.” Ending our conversation pretty sure I would be calling tech support.

With so many companies outsourcing jobs overseas calling tech support rarely connects me with an English speaking individual. I try to be courteous and kind but there are just so many ways to say, “excuse me, what did you say? I am so sorry; I didn’t understand the last five things you said. Would you mind repeating?” The language barrier can be frustrating.

 Connected with tech support and a patient lady named Rafe who lives in India, together we checked sound settings on my computer. Unsuccessful in regaining the sound on my lap top she said, “I need to take control of your computer.”

 Cautiously agreeing I watched as she examined the inner workings of my laptop.  I suddenly realized she had unlimited access to my most personal information. My computer was completely vulnerable to attack and all my writing, my work, at her mercy.

Surrendering control to a complete stranger is disconcerting and uncomfortable. As a writer, it would be a disaster if my files were corrupted. Fear gripped me as I saw her open my documents file. I prayed to prevent panic.

 Trust and peace eased the grip of fear as she continued working. Soon she had corrected the sound problem.  My computer was fixed and back in my control. Surrendering control is difficult, especially if we don’t know we can trust the person taking control. We surrender control in many aspects of life. To pilots, politicians, other drivers, doctors, nurses, lawyers, teachers, each could disappoint us or make a mistake.

Surrendering to Jesus is not like that at all. In giving up control to Him there is no worry that He might lead us in the wrong direction or hurt us. Relinquishing control to Him is a relief. Burdens are lifted. By trusting Him we gain peace and hope. By giving up, we win. Accepting that Heaven rules and God is in control we find hope, peace and a joy that cannot be found any other way.

Thank You Father for being in control of my life and this world. What a joy to know You are in control. You are an awesome God. In Jesus Holy Name, Amen

Angela Posey-Arnold 2009