It’s Monday so I’m thinking a lot today about the weekend – mainly how Sunday went. I felt the spirit of God in such a real way. I needed that so much.
I’m also thinking about the influences we allow into our lives. Yesterday, I read one blog that challenged me and made me cry (in a good way), then I read another that made me sad and disturbed – how the Enemy has such a stronghold in some people’s lives in the area of hate and bitterness. And by allowing negative thoughts to come into my mind through conversations, – or the internet – the Enemy can have a stronghold in my life as well. So I must be vigilant. I have to protect myself from getting on the roller-coaster of other people’s opinions. Meanwhile, I pray for peace and comfort to all of those seeking and hurting. I pray for the light of truth to speak to hearts and erase the hate. I pray for the strength to chase after the things of God, and God is love – and love wins!
Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies. Philippians 4:8-9 (MSG)
One authentic thing I can meditate on today is the gift of good friends – last night we hung-out with the Leathers, the Lopers, Dan, and Sally. It was great to be with good friends who keep our focus in the right place. I’m so thankful for that, because it’s easier to be positive among friends.
We missed the Conrads (we pray for your safe return, and for your dad’s health). We talked of good things like the numerous hearts that turned to God that morning – and the birth of a new babies (Welcome Bryleigh!). And we celebrated the fact that Andrea “the Queen of the Rap” was born!
So, it’s Monday, and even without 24, I’m doing alright – because I’m focused – not on the losses – but on the wins. Love wins, and I’m so glad!
Angie Bledsoe 
This is still a great lesson. Thanks
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I’ve been on Natalie for a little while about what she allows into her life from songs, tv shows and people. We monitor what we can but ultimately she is growing up and must make these choices herself. Well, what did Byron talk about at CRAVE? Choices! Natalie re-dedicated her life to Christ and we had a great conversation on the way home about how RIGHT I was.
Thank you Thank you Thank you!
Your post today ties in with that so much.
Love Wins Always
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