Matthew 28

"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20

What a beautiful promise! The Lord is with us when we're at our highest points-and at our lowest. He's with us regardless of what our fickle emotions and feelings tell us. These two verses are definitely worthy of memorization. Our power is in the word of God. When we're able to stand on scripture in our time of need, we snatch all power from the enemy. This weekend, think of ways that you can fulfill The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20). Share with someone about The Lord's unconditional love for you. Share your testimony to lead others to Him. 

I pray that you enjoyed the study of Matthew as much as I did! 

Happy Friday! :) 

Matthew 27

Seriously, who doesn't love a Beyonce reference remixed for Jesus? :)

"And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split and the tombs broke open..." Matthew 27:50-52 

When the temple curtain was torn, it was a visual representation of the new covenant. The temple veil was sacred and represented how sin separated man from God. With the veil torn, and Jesus' sacrifice, we can have a personal relationship with God. We're able to pray to him, repent to him, worship him, live for him. He gave his life for YOU! That's the definition of true love and commitment! Today, reflect on what Jesus' death and resurrection mean to you. Are you living as though Christ lives inside of you? Happy Thursday! 

Matthew 26

Matthew 26 is the story of Jesus' betrayal and arrest. Honestly, I get slightly annoyed every time I read it. Could you imagine KNOWING someone was going to stab you in the back but not acting on it? Jesus knew that some of his "ride or die" friends (Matthew 26:35) would not be there for him when things got rough. Regardless of the prophesies, Jesus still chose to love Peter and Judas. 

Life application: People are bound to hurt and mistreat you because of our sinful, carnal nature. The power comes in your response. Christ followers are called to stand out and love those who are hard to love- because you're hard to love sometimes too (Romans 12:9-21). Speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) when someone hurts you. Next time someone doesn't treat you right (according to your standards), I challenge you to begin to pray for them. Not just, "Bless their heart," but a genuine prayer like for a family member or your best friend. Romans 12:14 says to bless, not curse those who hurt you. You'll deepen your faith and mature as a result. Happy Wednesday! 

Matthew 25

‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ Matthew 25:21

What are you doing with the material things that God has blessed you with? Are you sowing into good ground by tithing to your church? Are you blessing others financially as God leads you? Are you harboring your spiritual gifts for yourself? Are others being brought to the knowledge of Christ through your words and actions? God doesn't want us to be afraid and bury our blessings (Matthew 25:24-30). Don't allow fear hold you back from growing in Christ. Happy Tuesday!

Matthew 24

"So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him." Matthew 24:44 

This chapter describes the second coming of Christ. If you've ever seen or read the Left Behind series, it's a pretty accurate depiction. We must have a sense of urgency. We don't know when Jesus will return. We don't have time to "get our life together" in our own strength and in our own time. We have to take a continuously look at our heart. What are we spending our time doing? Kingdom building or things of this world? (See Matthew 24:45-51). Get busy about God's work and have a happy Monday :)

Matthew 21

Jesus replied, “Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and it will be done. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” Matthew 21:21-22

We love to loosely quote verse 22. It's another great verse about how amazing God is. However, we have to remember that God isn't a genie in a bottle. He's not a magician who gives us everything that we ask for regardless of his will. Yes, when we give our hearts to God, and live for him, we do have the Holy Spirit within us. We do have authority to lay hands and call out the name of Jesus. But let's not look at this verse for selfish desires. Let's seek God and listen to the Holy Spirit's guidance about what and who to pray for. When we pray in accordance to God's will and have faith THEN we will receive what we ask for. 

"Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." Mark 11:24

Matthew 20

Matthew 20:1-16 is the parable of the workers in the vineyard. The vineyard owner hired different workers at various times in the day, but paid them equally. Of course those who worked all day were annoyed because others only worked for an hour. Have you ever felt like that? You've been working and sacrificing diligently only to get the same pay or recognition as someone who hasn't done nearly as much? It's natural to have a Kanye reaction... lol

Kanye made it known that he's been working at his clothing line significantly longer than Sway. In his mind, Sway should have no opinion of the topic. 

So, it's natural to want to go off on someone and prove your credibility, but then again, it's also natural to sin. You have to tell our flesh to shut up! Your labor is not in vain. God sees you and hasn't forgotten about you!

"From heaven the LORD looks down and sees all mankind" Psalm 33:13

*This is a judgement free zone, but this interview cracks me up every time. It's so outrageous! Let's conduct ourselves as calmly as Sway does in times of adversity :) 

Matthew 19

"...it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” Matthew 19:24 

Just before this, a rich man asked Jesus what else he had to do to get into heaven. The rich man had kept all the commandments, so Jesus told him to sell everything to follow him. But, the man did not. Obviously, the mans stuff meant more to him than his relationship with Christ. Yikes. The Holy Spirit may be telling you to let go of something and give your whole heart to him. Are your finances, friends, grades, material things worth more than your salvation? Today, let's take an inventory of our lives and work on making our hearts like Jesus'. Happy Wednesday :) 

Matthew 18

Matthew 18:7-9 says that whatever causing you to sin, you should cut it off. Now, you aren't going to literally rip your eye out or cut your hand off, but if you're trying to stop cussing, you could avoid listening to music with profanity in it. If you're trying to stop gossiping, you can turn off the gossip filled reality TV shows. If you're working on controlling you thoughts and being more positive, stop hanging out with negative people. You have a part to play in your walk with Christ. Let's not seek sin. Let's seek the kingdom instead. What needs to be cut off in your life? 

Happy Tuesday :)

Matthew 17

"But I tell you, Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but have done to him everything they wished. In the same way the Son of Man is going to suffer at their hands." Matthew 17:12

At this point, Jesus has taken John, James, and Peter up to a mountain, where God spoke to them. They now had the revelation of who Jesus was and had experienced him like few had. After the experience, they began to ask about why Elijah, who had been prophesied about, hadn't come. Jesus' reply was verse 12. 

Why is this verse important? Everyone did not appreciate the value of John the Baptist (Elijah) or Jesus. Both were prophesied about extensively, did great works, walked holy...but were still hated on! James 1:2 tells us to count it all joy when (people back stab, spread lies, take your ideas, take advantage of you, make you do the entire group project) you face trials of many kinds. I love the quote that says "If you don't have any haters, you're doing something wrong." Be unapologetically you! You don't have to constantly prove yourself. God could make "a bright cloud enveloped them, and a voice from the cloud said, 'This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!'" (Matthew 17:5) I don't know of you, but I'll let God fight my battles. 

Happy Monday! 

Matthew 14- Valentine's Edition

 

But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

“Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”

“Come,” he said. Matthew 14:27-29

Jesus and Peter walking on water is a well known story of faith, but since it's Valentine's Day, let's look at it another way. Peter had to really love Jesus to trust that he would be able to walk on water too. He had that kind of love because he saw Jesus do all these amazing works (ie. feeding 5,000+ people in Matthew 14:13-21). He had witnessed God's faithfulness over and over again; Peter didn't question Jesus when he was summoned out of the boat.  

Similarly, you have seen miraculous works in your own life. But do you love Jesus enough to step out and do something extraordinary? He's bidding you to "come." You have to be crazy in love with Jesus to trust him with no questions asked. You have to be crazy in love with Jesus to know that he has plans to help, not harm you. You have to be crazy in love with Jesus to submit yourself as a humble servant. You have to be crazy in love with Jesus to follow him in less than favorable conditions.

On this Valentine's Day, think about how you demonstrate your love and devotion to Christ. What's your relationship status? Do you only call him when you need something? Are you consistently in communication with him? Do people know about your relationship? 

Happy Valentine's Day! 

WARNING: These songs will take you into worship! Proceed expectantly

David & Nicole Binion: My Heart Cries (start at 2:07)

I originally heard this in a medley of songs that William McDowell performed. "My heart cries for more of you... I wanna see your face, feel your embrace, come fill this empty place inside my heart..."

William McDowell: I Belong to You

"I've been captured by a love I can't explain. Now you have me, and I'm forever changed..."

Matthew 13

"When he taught there in the synagogue, everyone was amazed and said, 'Where does he get this wisdom and the power to do miracles?' Then they scoffed, 'He’s just the carpenter’s son...and so he did only a few miracles there because of their unbelief.'" Matthew 13:53-58

This passage shows Jesus, the son of God, doing his Father's work, walking in his purpose. He's healing people, giving them hope, perspective and encouragement. However, when he returns to his hometown, people can only focus on his upbringing, his family, his circumstances. They could not get past the labels that they had placed on him. Has anyone ever tried to corner you with their critiques? Have people judged you off of your past and not your future? No big deal, Jesus went through the SAME thing!

But look at this, because Jesus' neighbors were so narrow-minded, they missed out on seeing Jesus in all his glory. He didn't do many miracles there. So what your BFF from elementary school doesn't like your convictions? Somebody, somewhere needs to hear your story. Somebody somewhere needs to be empowered through your poetry, music, writing, painting, or dancing. Everyone can't walk with you into your destiny, so don't allow the naysayers to stifle your gifts. You are talented. You are special. You are a vital part of the spiritual body.

Are you allowing the crowds determine your walk? Jesus didn't. Are you greater than him? Ha! #jesusjuke ...of course you don't think you're greater than Jesus, but it does make you think...

Happy Snowy Thursday!

Matthew 12

“Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit." Matthew 12:33 

And we're back to the tree analogy :) A healthy tree grows because of a a strong foundation. It's roots are healthy and grounded in good soil. There are enough nutrients to circulate throughout the entire tree, no parts are lacking. The environment is one where the tree can flourish and thrive. The exact opposite is true for a wimpy, dry tree with unsavory fruit.

Take a moment to view yourself as the tree. What are you rooted in? Is your foundation the Word of God or the word of man? Are you getting your nutrients from junk-gossip, negative media, people's opinions?  Or are you getting your nutrients from good, sustainable food- healthy relationships, wise counsel, prayer, fasting, uplifting media? Based on what you're taking in, is your fruit savory or rancid? #heartcheck

Challenge yourself to cut off the infected branches that are holding you back from walking in your God-ordained purpose. Seek the Lord for guidance in how to do so.

"Light is sown for the righteous, and joy for the upright in heart" Psalm 97:11

Happy Wednesday! :)

Matthew 11: New Bible App!

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 

For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

These are a few of my favorite verses. Recently, I have been challenging myself to memorize more scriptures. It's much more effective to quote scripture versus saying "I know there's a scripture that talks about..." which I'm guilty of haha

Here's a screenshot from the app

But I found an app that solves this problem! Yay! It's called Bible Minded. Try it out! Happy Tuesday :)

"I have hidden your word in my heart that I may not sin against you" Psalm 119:11

Matthew 10

“Don’t think you have to put on a fund-raising campaign before you start. You don’t need a lot of equipment. You are the equipment..." Matthew 10:9

Right before this verse, Jesus tasks 12 people to spread the gospel to their neighborhoods. He emphasizes that in order to be effective, they don't need to go to the ends of the earth, they can go right into their neighborhoods and make a difference. What I love about verse 9 is that it removes every excuse. When God gives us something to do, a task to complete, he will provide everything that we need to complete it. What excuse have you been giving God to not fulfill what he called you to do? Whatever it was, fugetaboutit *in my most convincing mafia voice* and let God show you how faithful he is! 

"And don’t worry about what you’ll say or how you’ll say it. The right words will be there; the Spirit of your Father will supply the words." Matthew 10:20

You don't have to be an eloquent speaker to share what God placed inside your heart. Since we were created uniquely and in His image, we ALL have ways to serve the kingdom (ie. Spiritual Gifts). Jesus told the 12 harvest hands to go into their neighborhoods and share the gospel in a vernacular common to that place. Your testimony, your accent, your style of dress are all things that can be used to draw people Christ. Be You! 

Because The Holy Spirit resides in us (those who have accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior of their lives), we have 24/7 access to him. If we find ourselves at a loss for words, we can ask The Holy Spirit to guide and direct us to the most appropriate words for that moment. There have been many times that I don't know what to write in these morning devotionals and I sought additional direction. On those days, I get feedback like "that's just what I needed to hear today" or "How did you know that's what I was praying about?!" How awesome! You never know how significant the impact your words and actions will be when you heed His guidance. How much better would our lives be if we applied this same principles to EVERY aspect of life?

What were your favorite parts of this chapter?

Happy Monday! 

Matthew 7

This chapter opens with some of the most quoted verses from the Bible. In fact, I'm sure some people aren't even aware that they're Bible verses. The old "don't tell me about the speck in my eye while you have a plank in yours." Sometimes, when I hear people say it, I'm thinking "humble yourself and take some constructive criticism!" My challenge to you with Matthew 7:1-5, is to look inward, before telling someone about their plank.   

“Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces." Matthew 7:6

What do pearls and pigs have to do with Jesus? I'm glad you asked :) The sacred items and pearls can be: your dreams, your vision, your talents, your time, or anything that you're passionate about. The pigs and dogs can be: naysayers and people who constantly "throw shade" in an attempt to deter you from your calling. Really this verse is saying, our "pearls" are gifts from God, so we much use and share them wisely and according to his plans. What are you doing with your pearls? Are you giving them away to those who don't appreciate them? They'll misuse and abuse them and leave you questioning if your pearls were even valuable to begin with. *Whew* y'all, that was deep...

"A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them." Matthew 7:18-20

The above verse was initially referring to false prophets; but ya'll know I like to bring things to the modern day vernacular. Let's look at the picture above. So many people wear the label of "Christian." They'll post that their favorite book is The Bible, they'll tattoo 116 (Romans 1:16) on their body, they'll repost inspired scriptures, the list goes on and on. But if you take away the fluff, what are they really about? Can you see their faith in their speech and word choice? Can you see Jesus in how they treat people? Is there something different about them or do they fade into the crowd? Who and what do people see when they observe your life?

Happy Friday!

Matthew 6

“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven." Matthew 6:1 

Sharing the gospel should come from a genuine place. We shouldn't post scriptures for "likes" and for people to think that we are super saved saints. God knows our hearts (Luke 16:15), and knows if we are doing his work for him or if we are fueled by fleshly motives. 

It's not necessary to boast about what you're doing for the kingdom. If you are tithing regularly, faithfully serving in ministry, uplifting others, God sees that. He will reward what's done without recognition (Matthew 6:4). 

"...for your Father knows what you need before you ask him." Matthew 6:8

Chapter 6 talks about getting into our prayer closets and seeking him. It's not necessary to pray extravagant prayers full of cliches to reach God. In fact, God appreciates a simplified, heartfelt prayer, which is where "The Lord's Prayer" comes from. I love how the Bible takes all the pressure off praying. God knows what we need before we ask him?! So, no need to stress about what to include in your prayer time, he will offer direction. 

 This chapter is packed with verses that talk about humility. It says the same thing about prayer, fasting, righteousness, and wealth. Don't do things for recognition. The whole world does not need to know that you're fasting or spending 20 hours a day praying. These are personal matter and unless you're sharing with people who keep you accountable, keep it to yourself! (That's from the Casey International Version haha)

"Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?" Matthew 6:27

The Lord ensures that the smallest organisms are fed. How much more care does he give his children- the beings that he made in his image? He cares for YOU! Don't stress about clothes, transportation, your job, your paycheck. If you give your cares to him, he will provide. Here's proof: Philippians 4:19, Luke 6:38, Ephesians 3:20, and sooo many more!

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:33-34

I don't know about you, but I'm just going to tell God my issues, spend crazy amounts of time with him, and RELAX (relate, release! Do ya'll remember that episode from A Different World? lol)

Fun Fact: I read this chapter a few weeks ago, and it inspired me to do this Matthew study! 

Happy Thursday!

Matthew 5 (Possibly my favorite chapter)

As I read over this chapter last night and this morning,  I had no idea where to start. I was wrecked...in a good way. I honestly considered posting Matthew 5 and then "dropping the mic" Ha! There's so much wisdom and comfort in this chapter! I pray that you read the entire chapter (click here!) and get all that you can from it! 

You're blessed- Matthew 5:3-12
*NOTE: I LOVE every single verse in this segment. I'm sure you will too*

Stressed? Overwhelmed? Annoyed? Anxious?
“You’re blessed when you’re at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule." Matthew 5:3

Friendships falling apart? Unemployed? Significant other actin' up? Depressed?
“You’re blessed when you feel you’ve lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you." Matthew 5:4
  
Broke? Feeling inadequate? Discontent?
“You’re blessed when you’re content with just who you are—no more, no less. That’s the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can’t be bought." Matthew 5:5

Feeling judged? 
“You’re blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even deeper into God’s kingdom." Matthew 5:10

Letting your light shine- Matthew 5:13-16
"Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16

Your testimony isn't for you. It's to bring honor and glory to the Kingdom and inspire others on their faith walk. I've found that people love transparency and often times it will strengthen the bond that you have with them. What have you shared to encourage someone?

The Commandments- Matthew 5:21-32

“You’re familiar with the command to the ancients, ‘Do not murder.’ I’m telling you that anyone who is so much as angry with a brother or sister is guilty of murder." Matthew 5:21

Yikes! I'm guilty... very guilty. The Bible is leaves no grey areas. Later in the verses it says that words kill. We should be extending the same amount of grace the God gives to us. So what if someone cuts you off in traffic? So what people lie and mislead you? Let God deal with them. Don't clutter your mind with negativity. (Confession: I'm a work in progress. I'm definitely dying to myself daily- Galatians 5:24) Is Christ evident in your speech and thoughts?

Loving Others- Matthew 5:33-48
"If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that." Matthew 5:46

Do you love people who talk about you? Do you love people who nag you? Do you love people who discredit you? Do you love people who lie to you? We are called to be "perfect as God is perfect" (Matthew 5:48) How have you loved the hard to love this week?

Ok so I basically posted the entire chapter...oh well. I love how relevant this book is! What was your favorite part of this chapter? What was your least favorite part (because you were convicted lol)? 

Happy Wednesday!

Matthew 4

"Next Jesus was taken into the wild by the Spirit for the Test. The Devil was ready to give it. Jesus prepared for the Test by fasting forty days and forty nights. That left him, of course, in a state of extreme hunger, which the Devil took advantage of in the first test..." Matthew 4:1-3

The story of Jesus being tempted in the desert is a common one. However, I want to call our attention to somethings that I noticed. 

• Jesus was led by the Spirit to be tested

So often we think that because we're being tested, we've done something wrong. Jesus, the son of God, was blameless, should we, mere humans, expect something different? Jesus demonstrated that he trusted God's plan by following the Spirit for the test. Are you heading the call? 

• Jesus PREPARED for the tests

As Christians, we are guaranteed to be tested. Like the cliche says, if we fail to plan, we plan to fail. Prepare for the tests by studying the scripture, immersing yourself in the word (ie. podcasts, music...), ample prayer, and wise counsel. How are you preparing for the tests of life? 

• Jesus was vulnerable

Jesus hadn't eaten in 40 days. Are you kidding me?! I start to feel woozy at hour 4 of no food. I'm sure by that time, the rocks really did start to look like croutons. Vulnerability can cause compromise of values, beliefs, and progress. It's at these times that we have to have some accountability and people to call when temptations starts too look appealing. Are you putting yourself in compromising situations or seeking out environments that edify the kingdom?  

• The devil knew the state of Jesus' flesh and tested it

The devil knew Jesus hadn't eating, and took full advantage of that. The devil knows that you haven't been studying the word for yourself. He can then send false teachers on instagram, he can cause your "friends" to cast doubt into your spirit, and he can draw you to that music that stirs up your sinful nature. The devil doesn't attack where you're strong, but where you're weak! If you seek out God, he specializes in these types of situations (2 Corinthians 2:9)

Happy Tuesday! 

Matthew 1-3

I’m so pumped about this Matthew Study! I had every intention of posting on February 1 and 2 but life happened haha I’ll share that at the end of this post :)

Matthew 1: The Birth of Jesus

Matthew 1:18-25 which talks about the Immaculate Conception and the birth of Jesus. When Joseph found out that Mary was pregnant, an angel spoke to him in a dream (verse 20-23). 

Joseph had great intentions by trying to take care of things quietly, but it wasn’t God’s plan for him. Has God ever given you a task or something to do and you felt as though you couldn’t complete it?

I absolutely love this part, “Then Joseph woke up. He did exactly what God’s angel commanded in the dream…” Matthew 1:24 (MSG)

When God speaks to you, do you listen? And when you hear him, do you gripe, complain, and take your sweet time?

Matthew 2: Herod’s plot

“Herod then arranged a secret meeting with the scholars from the East. Pretending to be as devout as they were, he got them to tell him exactly when the birth announcement start had appeared…” Matthew 2:7-8

Herod, is a perfect example of James 1:26 (If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless…). He put on a front, quoted scriptures, sang all the right songs in praise and worship, prayed super long prayers… or whatever else to convince the scholars that he was a believer. As Christians, The Lord gives us a discerning spirit. Spend time with Him, so you can be aware of the “Herods” of the world.

Matthew 2:16-17 says that Herod was angry when the scholars did not report back to tell him the location of baby Jesus. He then commanded that all the baby boys should be slaughtered so that nobody would be able to follow a messiah.

We shouldn't share our dreams and visions with everybody. Some people (like Herod) will hear about your calling and become jealous. They’ll lead you to believe that they are supporting you, but all the while, they are plotting against you. Who are you sharing your dreams and aspirations with? Are your relationships God –lead? Or are you hanging on to relationships that God told you to cut off, because they drain you, pull you AWAY from Christ, and steal your joy?

Matthew 3: Jesus gets baptized  

^“But when he saw many Pharisees and Sadducees coming to be baptized, he denounced them. ‘You sons of snakes!’ he warned. ‘Who said that you could escape the coming wrath of God? Before being baptized, prove that you have turned from sin by doing worthy deeds. Don’t try to get by as you are, thinking, ‘We are safe for we are Jews—descendants of Abraham.’ That proves nothing. God can change these stones here into Jews!’” Matthew 3:7-10 (The Living Bible)

John the Baptist had become widely known, much like the celebrities of today. Everyone wanted a piece of John, so baptism was the cool thing to do. But I love how John called out the hypocrisy. Similarly, we should not merely accept that everyone who professes Christianity does in fact have a growing relationship in Christ. Our walk with Christ is not determined by how many things we do well at church, but it’s about our heart. If the heart is right with God, we should be bearing the fruits of the spirit. It’s not determined by how often we attend church, or that our grandparents thrice removed pray for us daily. It’s a PERSONAL decision to take up our cross and follow Him.

“Then Jesus went from Galilee to the Jordan River to be baptized there by John. John didn’t want to do it. ‘This isn’t proper,’ he said. ‘I am the one who needs to be baptized by you.’ But Jesus said, ‘Please do it, for I must do all that is right.’ So then John baptized him.” Matthew 3:15

Fun fact: Jesus was baptized for all that follow him! Baptism is not necessary to be saved, but it is a outward act for an inward change. Really, Jesus made being a Christian so much easier. We don’t have to slaughter things, wait for prophets to speak words from God, or any of that. Thank you, Jesus :)

I celebrated my birthday this weekend! So much fun. It's crazy to think that a few months ago, I knew a total of ZERO people. 

*I also served as a chaperone at my church lock in, but I don't have those pictures yet :(

I also met my absolute favorite person in the world, Heather Lindsey. She's so sweet! Ladies, visit her website: www.heatherlindsey.com. Guys, visit her husband's website: www.corneliuslindsey.com