tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61061587387976208492024-02-18T20:22:15.638-08:00Love God Love PeopleLeah MarshallLeah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-56620732773011358182011-06-28T15:04:00.000-07:002011-06-28T15:40:55.046-07:00Are you my friend?<div><br /></div><div>I remember laying in bed waiting for my parents to come and say goodnight prayers with me. I was a little blonde girl who knew she had all the support in the world. My protecting and loving father without fail would take my glasses off my face every night. My caring mother would make sure there was a glass of water on my bedside table. I never forgot to pray for one thing, the thing i wanted most as a girl...friends. </div><div><br /></div><div>I sure did have them though, but i never had a friend who desired to pour into me as much as i did into them. And it seemed very far fetched, but something not too much to ask for. Growing up that never became less of a desire than it always was. God seemed to have called me to be everyones counselor. I was always the friend people came to when all there temporary friends flaked on them. I was the one they came to when life got real tough. I loved that, i really did, but who was the friend i could go to when things got tough? I wouldn't be as experienced as i am now if my life hadn't been that way. I want to be a counselor, that desire is so strong within me. I am so grateful for that. But everyone needs a best friend no matter who you are.</div><div><br /></div><div>God gave me one of those gold nuggets that you never let go of. He spoke to me, although it wasn't easy to receive or live out the way i had to, I knew it was my ticket for an amazing group of friends. You know that group of friends that hang out every saturday night? That pack of kids that create all their memories with? I wanted that. He spoke...."Be the friend you need Leah, and i will bless you" That was my freshman year of High school. I recently realized God had blessed me.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ive always felt blessed all my life but i recently had one of those moments where i felt God's favor on my life abundantly. Overwhelming feeling ill never forget.</div><div><br /></div><div>I turned 21 a week ago. A few weeks before i realized if i wanted one of those birthday party things i had to start planning. I have had some good parties but i have never attempted to get ALL my friends in the same place for my glory...haha So selfish! But this year i gave it a go! Risky! These birthday Party things never turn out well right?!</div><div><br /></div><div>Lets cut to the chase, I was sitting at Oba Restaurant in Portland, OR sitting at the head of the table....I looked down at 22 people. 22 people (although there amazing people in Canada and busy that couldnt make it)! And im talking friends....no old people (haha), all my friends. And thats when the moment happened, I was so overwhelmed, you could not have gotten me to frown that night. Most every person old and new has had a close bond with me. Some have gone through everything with me and some have taken part in a God blessed ministry with me. I realized in that moment that God had answered my prayers, i about shed a few tears in that moment! But I couldn't through all the laughing and story sharing.</div><div><br /></div><div>The next best thing was that everyone was having a blast! old and new friends were meeting each other and everything was blending so well, it made me so grateful that God had put me through the ringer to make my life transparent. If you got to know all those people sitting at that table you would have a pretty good idea for the person I have come to be. </div><div><br /></div><div>I have never felt so loved and blessed in my life as I do today.</div><div>Ill go ahead and say and be proud, in that moment my obedience to the Lord had been rewarded and in that group of people God beauty was revealed a bit more to me. Wow, I am so in love with the God i serve.</div><div><br /></div><div>A birthday I will NEVER forget.</div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-12514389405383755642011-06-17T21:45:00.000-07:002011-06-17T21:51:56.198-07:00Timing is everything<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: 11px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">When the stars line up<br />And you catch a good break<br />People think you're lucky<br />But you know its grace<br /><br />It can happen so fast<br />Or a little bit late<br />Timing is everything<br /><br />You know I've had close calls<br />When it could've been me<br />I was young when I learned just how fragile life can be<br />I lost friends of mine<br />I guess it wasn't my time<br />Timing is everything<br /><br />And I could've been a child that God took home,<br />And I would've been one more unfinished song<br />And when it seems a rhyme is hard to find<br />That's when one comes along<br />Just in time<br /><br />Well I remember that day<br />When our eyes first met<br />You ran into the building to get out of the rain<br />Cause you were soakin wet<br />And as I held the door<br />You wanted to know my name<br />Timing is everything<br /><br />And I could've been another minute late<br />And you'd never would've crossed my path that day<br />And when it seems true love is hard to find<br />That's when love comes along<br />Just in time<br /><br />You can call it fate<br />Or destiny<br />Sometimes it really seems like its a mystery<br /><br />Cause you can be hurt by love<br />Or healed by the same<br />Timing is everything<br /><br />It can happen so fast<br />Or a little too late<br />Timing is everything</span></b></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></b></span><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></span>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-34433919382382247682011-03-24T16:02:00.000-07:002011-03-24T16:15:06.196-07:00How to Get God’s Attention<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Do you ever feel like God isn’t listening? Do you ever feel like your prayers are just bouncing around in your head, not going beyond you?Its frustrating isn’t it?</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span>Well imagine yourself in a room, your sitting in a chair, you close your eyes to pray, <b>with no distractions around you</b> and then you open them, there Jesus is sitting right in front of you. He is nodding his head responding and hearing everything your saying.</p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Is it possible to feel like Jesus is that attentive to your prayers?<br />YES, I think it is.</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Lets start with something simple that we know well to do or maybe we aren’t so good at. </span><span style="font: 14.0px Arial; letter-spacing: 0.0px">HOW DO YOU GET A PERSONS ATTENTION?</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><br />1.<b>Acknowledge them.</b><br /> -Say there name.<br /> - Tap them on the shoulder.<br /> - Shout to them (Hey Jon! Can I speak with you?!)<br />2. <b>Greet them.</b><br /> - Hey how ya doin?<br /> - Whats new?<br /> -Its really great to see you!<br />3. <b>Speak to them.</b><br /> - Your concern or info/content needed to be expressed.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="font: 14.0px Arial; letter-spacing: 0.0px">So how do we communicate to GOD?</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><br />1. <b>Acknowledge HIM.</b><br /> -calling on His name<br /> -removing all other distractions<br />2. <b>Greet HIM.</b><br /> - praising Him<br /> - Putting Him above all others including yourself<br />3. <b>SPEAK TO HIM.</b><br /> - Lay your burdens at His feet.<br /> - matters of the day and of the future or past.</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">What do those things have in common? They both Take INITIATIVE. </span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Verdana"><span style="font: 12.0px Arial; letter-spacing: 0.0px">Jeremiah 29:11-14<br /></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,”</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Verdana"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><b>How people Got Jesus’ Attention:</b></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Mary and Joseph greeted Him then searched for Him.<br />King Herod sent searchers/messengers.<br />A man with leprosy and ruler kneeled before Him.<br />A centurion asking for help.<br />Two Blind men called out to Him. “Have mercy on us!”<br />A mother and two sons waited for Him.<br />The Pharisees interrupted Him.<br />A Canaanite women Cried out to Him.<br />A woman simply touched his cloak.</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><b>You see its not how do I get God’s attention its how do I get myself to take initiative. </b></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><b><br /></b></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><b></b></span></p><b><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"> I can’t get His Attention,</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><b>1. Check my heart.</b><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>- What am I giving my focus to?<br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>- What/who am I giving my heart to?<br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>- A lot of times we wont notice our hearts and attention is in the wrong place. We could be devoting ourselves to a bunch of nothings!! And not notice.<br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>- God desires all of us. He is a jealous God.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><b>2. Check my Motive.</b><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>-Trend seeker? Or Genuine curiosity?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><b>3. Check my initiative.</b><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>- Finding Him in the word.<br /> - Finding Him in my prayer.<br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>- Finding Him in worship.<br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>- Finding Him in Creation.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Jeremiah 33:3 “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>In my life i have struggled with this only for one reason, I pushed God away and accused him of leaving me behind when in fact my hand was against God instead of reaching for Him. God seeks us on a daily basis, all hours of the day. When i had a time of falling away he sure did seek me, but....HE COULD NOT FIND ME. I was ashamed and broken. Pushing him away while going deeper into this world. Maybe you dont feel like you have His attention but ask yourself why. You my be happy and content with life now but later you might realize how miserable you really were.</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">so....When He seeks you will He find you?</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><i>Right now He knows your thoughts, He knows your intentions, He knows your dreams, He knows your desires, He knows what you want. Because…HE DESIRES YOU. YOU ARE HIS THOUGHTS. YOU ARE HIS INTENTION. YOU ARE HIS DREAM. YOU ARE WHAT HE WANTS.</i></span></p><p></p></b><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-28176570500348820902011-02-24T23:08:00.000-08:002011-02-24T23:18:38.611-08:00Purpose<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfOG_qYgBLO22AtrcHuwjSjc2MiycVSczEb_6ghV7TJRQ7wB_cT9GvNKuDdOgRCg5K1aE-5q2jmxZ4CogBYbzOhtOQg5bagW6anIdMOHryogUKaduVurcCw0L1pDQmyDq5DA67dYmjnjI/s1600/39796_418387491057_684081057_5340604_2317320_n.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfOG_qYgBLO22AtrcHuwjSjc2MiycVSczEb_6ghV7TJRQ7wB_cT9GvNKuDdOgRCg5K1aE-5q2jmxZ4CogBYbzOhtOQg5bagW6anIdMOHryogUKaduVurcCw0L1pDQmyDq5DA67dYmjnjI/s200/39796_418387491057_684081057_5340604_2317320_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577520601523558066" border="0" /></a>What you see to my right is what I do. If I am ever unsure of anything I know God placed me in these Jr.highers lives for a reason. To learn how to love God and love others. They bless me more than i could ever imagine. The uncountable smiles they put on my face keep me coming back. (WSFC Fusion Youth)<br /><this what="" do="" if="" m="" ever="" unsure="" of="" anything="" know="" i="" can="" be="" sure="" that="" placed="" me="" with="" these="" highers="" for="" a="" very="" specific="" learn="" how="" to="" god="" and="" love="" we="" have="" sooo="" much="" wfsc="" fusion=""></this>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-17965330145209605072011-01-16T23:41:00.000-08:002011-01-17T00:16:02.951-08:00NEW<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4PAbd-H2F0qsdg-fZ5mMWxnJVyL4ABIlpjzNsav7cDlv4RMPdIE1TZc2ayWrtE05z-h5LM4JIhmySSDWUKQ7Goeikte1UV3rlUoqh0ZD_RL_DQqUQuzNH4C1OZZLHh74IHpdGHlIO0VI/s1600/map_of_salem_or.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 129px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4PAbd-H2F0qsdg-fZ5mMWxnJVyL4ABIlpjzNsav7cDlv4RMPdIE1TZc2ayWrtE05z-h5LM4JIhmySSDWUKQ7Goeikte1UV3rlUoqh0ZD_RL_DQqUQuzNH4C1OZZLHh74IHpdGHlIO0VI/s200/map_of_salem_or.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563064465169620578" /></a><br />Well folks my life is drastically different from a year ago, I thought I would document what's new in my life right now and what I am currently involved in.<div><br /></div><div>I'm living in Salem OR with my parents, I am beyond blessed with the privileged of living under their roof. NO RENT! Woohoo! I go to West Salem Foursquare Church and I am loving it! New friends and new family. So blessed by the people God has placed around me there. Salem is so awesome, i love that downtown Salem is within minutes of me, i love how its a "big little city". I love to go downtown, do some devos and people watch :)<div><br /></div><div>I am a Jr. High leader at the youth group, and I think thats the best decision I have made. They bless me so much I cant handle it! They way i have connected with my girls can never be replaced, and every-time we meet our relationships with God get deeper and deeper. I am a blessed person given the privileged to lead such amazing 11-13 year olds. Did i mention the laughing that goes on?! Endless laughing and smiling! And above all they are awesome worshippers!</div><div><br /></div><div>Along with Youth Group I am the Afternoon Front Desk receptionist/Youth admin/and Pastor Dans Assistant all at the church. I get to do the very thing I am going to school for every day. Learning more about God and serving HIM. I couldn't ask for anything better! I have so much fun at work and I get to do a lot of problem solving which I also love. </div><div><br /></div><div>I am finishing up my credits at Canby Bible college in the mornings. I just got finished with a semester there and I am a week into a new one. WOW is what I have to say about the body of people who sharpen me at this College. It is a very intimate and growing environment where you are not forgotten. God has blown me away through the professors and classmates in my time there, I am truly honored to be accepted as a student there. This Spring i will be graduated with an Associates of Arts in Theology at Pacific Life Bible College in Surrey, B.C. Canada. Woohoo!</div><div><br /></div><div>God is my Savior and throughout this year He has proven Himself to me in so many ways. His words are always enough and His words are what got me here to Salem, OR. (the last place i thought i would be!)</div><div><br /></div><div>When i think back to the year 2010 I will remember these three things:</div><div>1. Remember what God has done.</div><div>2. When you know the right way to live, you will be miserable living the wrong way.</div></div><div>3. Ministry = Service.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I am so thankful for the work of the Lord. </div><div>Come visit me and check it out!</div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-23504008609035104612010-12-29T10:50:00.000-08:002010-12-29T11:09:21.189-08:00heart break<div style="text-align: right;"><div>the tears are falling.</div><div>pain is increasing.</div><div><br /></div><div>love is becoming worthless.</div><div>broken.</div><div><br /></div><div>people are running.</div><div>abandonment.</div><div><br /></div><div>self worth hardly exists.</div><div>murder.</div></div><div style="text-align: right;"> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi6_Y6WuK-p3pyBVAKV5mdX7OuleJKGbkgzCln4tqX0Sb-VQFWWdQvx41Qj8T1XeHNHakd_iJu-AaBVqyF59pJ-qyQ3oNiCxKQ5TormEw6cy3Wt_t06q8OQznCOQR33j8PQWBsLsDLLMM/s1600/Looking_like_flying_birds__by_ann_ko.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi6_Y6WuK-p3pyBVAKV5mdX7OuleJKGbkgzCln4tqX0Sb-VQFWWdQvx41Qj8T1XeHNHakd_iJu-AaBVqyF59pJ-qyQ3oNiCxKQ5TormEw6cy3Wt_t06q8OQznCOQR33j8PQWBsLsDLLMM/s200/Looking_like_flying_birds__by_ann_ko.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556182986925104482" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>My heart is exploding! Be careful when you ask the Lord to break your heart for what breaks His. You will never be blind again.</div><div><br /></div><div>LOVE, if you have it, GIVE it.</div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-57193530765466660712010-12-25T22:17:00.000-08:002010-12-25T22:47:20.469-08:002010WOW. What a year it has been. A very hard year to say the least. One i will not forget. So much has happened, so much change, so much healing. Really everything thing was good, but tough to confront. Last year at this very time, i had so much hope for my life to be a certain way for the next year. But God brought different challenges and blessings. Starting this new year, i am not asking God for anything. He knows better, He knows what i need. <div><br /></div><div>I have been so blessed this year by my parents. Ok maybe I am spoiled :)</div><div>I have also been very spoiled by a new church family who has loved me and allowed God to give me an abundance of opportunities to serve Him. Thank you WSFC for being obedient and serving our community.<br /><div><br /></div><div>I'm sure looking back on your own life, you will see you learned the most in your toughest times. I learned a lot this year! </div><div>I learned a lot about contentment. </div><div>I learned that you dont need anything to impact others but a willing heart and the Holy Spirit.</div><div>I learned a lot about forgiveness. </div><div>I learned I love to run.</div><div>I learned to appreciate God plans for other people.</div><div>I learned even when people doubted Gods plans for my life, i still succeeded. </div><div>I learned Dutch Bros. makes all there drinks with half and half. :/</div><div>I learned Jesus will come quickly. I will keep His words.</div><div>I learned rebel streaks are not necessary.</div><div>I learned I need a lot more grace than expected. </div><div>I learned a bit more that i love people so much!</div><div>I learned I need to forgive myself even when i forgave everyone else.</div><div>I learned more about God's love and how it can consume me. </div><div>I learned my parents are still giddy for each other.</div><div>I learned I have a fetish for birds (decorative things).</div><div>I learned when i see other succeed i get overwhelming joy! (I tear up too easy!)</div><div>Most of all I learned God will never abandon me.<br /><div><br /></div><div>So take a deep breath and BEGIN year 2011. Expecting to see and feel Gods hand everyday.</div></div></div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-9989162834003110892010-11-22T10:06:00.000-08:002010-11-22T10:18:08.161-08:00The only part of you that people are really interested in, is what is real. That is often the hardest part to show. And also it might not be so pretty, but when you become transparent thats when your can begin your beautiful journey. <div>This Holiday season be real with your family and let them see the parts of you, you dont often show. I know you are concealing something, i know i do. Show your passions, what you love, and what your dreams are. </div><div>And if your angry about something when it comes to your family, dont wait til your about to burst to expose that. Do it when your in a good mood or calm. </div><div><br /></div><div>I want to know the real you, because thats who i love!</div><div><br /></div><div>Love,</div><div>Leah</div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-49939890065773240832010-11-15T00:41:00.000-08:002010-11-15T01:16:58.892-08:00Although...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2-pSNxUd4xL3ImO-Ffe0Uv785mJDY2l1_uTb9Zhxsu7jqO75y86JS244hrT8zKA-pMq4NyXdOrpUICaW4apH0SfJS9KThjQZDn9f8-NW_WuEK_OF02H1rSgZW6tlwIV9uQwgb9MBdQFA/s1600/you-re-not-alone.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2-pSNxUd4xL3ImO-Ffe0Uv785mJDY2l1_uTb9Zhxsu7jqO75y86JS244hrT8zKA-pMq4NyXdOrpUICaW4apH0SfJS9KThjQZDn9f8-NW_WuEK_OF02H1rSgZW6tlwIV9uQwgb9MBdQFA/s320/you-re-not-alone.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539696874205571634" /></a><br />Loosing sleep. <div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><i>Tonight is one of those nights I need to take my own advice and read some of my previous blogs, to remember how I have learned and what I have been saved from. </i></span></div><div><br /></div><div>Tonight is one of those nights I'm just sad to think of what I may be missing.</div><div><br /></div><div>Tonight is one of those nights I don't want to be alone in this room.</div><div><br /></div><div>Tonight is one of those nights where being this outspoken and full of emotions makes me be thankful I am so alone.</div><div><br /></div><div>Tonight is one of those nights where I remember the trouble I got myself into, letting myself find worth in the wrong person or the wrong thing.</div><div><br /></div><div>Tonight is one of those nights where all I'm wanting is a change.</div><div><br /></div><div>Tonight is one of those nights where its just a little too dark.</div><div><br /></div><div>Tonight is one of those nights where I feel like all my scars where created just yesterday.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><i>Tonight is one of those nights I need to take my own advice and read some of my previous blogs, to remember how I have learned and what I have been saved from. </i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">MY mind is going to the wrong corners of my brain! God made me so detailed and gave me a great memory. Although i seem to remember the bad things more these days, than the good things. It used to be the total opposite, but the good things God does in my life i do not forget. I have forgiven but i haven't let go completely of the hurt. Why is that so hard for us to do when thats the feeling we want the least? Is it because thats the last thing we have? If we let go of the hurt than its completely gone. Maybe i dont let go of the hurt because i will feel it was all for nothing? None of these reasons make sense but may be true. I need to do something differently.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">So lately i have had lots of opportunities with my art. Although they have not played out yet. So maybe i just need to jump into my art more. I need to get the juices flowing. I need to warm up these fingers. Thats what im going to do. I will paint. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Ill post a picture soon. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Thank you cyber space for listening to me rant this late evening.</span></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSVdBq5Tz015Yc0gNEJsATpuHstmqRJPuAiPkWMtdudeHtyXrs2HnVAqSEyBF5tEJrYqO9Spa0H3633MsVC-UU7UysFiSs6p0LtdVKbmom4ej2TUq_l6HxP5HkEqoeU2VLC-LrkUOlPqw/s1600/Holy+spirit+painting.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSVdBq5Tz015Yc0gNEJsATpuHstmqRJPuAiPkWMtdudeHtyXrs2HnVAqSEyBF5tEJrYqO9Spa0H3633MsVC-UU7UysFiSs6p0LtdVKbmom4ej2TUq_l6HxP5HkEqoeU2VLC-LrkUOlPqw/s200/Holy+spirit+painting.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539702636416737698" style="cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px; " /></a> (a previous painting the Holy Spirit inspired me to do)</div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-72673664737346374222010-10-26T23:51:00.000-07:002010-10-27T00:15:41.128-07:00Let Go and Let GodI have ran into a moment this evening where I feel very uncomfortable. Being reminded of my mistakes makes me come undone and so uneasy. This makes me wonder if I have truly forgiven myself. I must say though I have come a long, long way. 10 months ago I would have been falling apart but now its more like a poke in my side. <div><br /></div><div>Its interesting how our minds can flash visions of how it could of been or how we would have done it all differently. These visions in my mind are bringing me down. I try to talk myself out of them, telling myself its in the past, you have no control of the past. Which is true but I remember I cant do this on my own. So I replace those thoughts with prayer then jump on the computer to see if a friend is available to talk. Bethany a college friend of mine was able to talk for 5 minutes which is all it took. We both new I was past this little hiccup I was dealing with and all I needed was a little encouragement and distraction.</div><div><br /></div><div>Praise God for bringing us through trials and giving us purpose and a tangible love we can have. No matter the situation we put ourselves through God always gives us a way out. When we recover from that situation, we somehow, one day, love the ones who hurt us again. Then we regain conscience of knowing we deserve what is real and what is given to us by God...Forgiveness. </div><div><br /></div><div>Can you recall a situation where God saved you from what could have been? Can you think of a time where you finally made the right decision when it mattered most? If you can, thank and Praise God for it now!</div><div>Maybe all you can think of in your head is that you have failed everything. I know thats not true, but maybe this can cause you to make a good decision right now. Has something been controlling you? Have you been allowing the enemy to have his way because you have given up? Have you allowed something or someone to have power over what you do, say or believe? You were created to do good things and be good and to minister, that is why when you do the wrong thing you are miserable. Take the challenge and change something in your life that will put you in a better place tomorrow. Then forgive and forgive yourself. </div><div><br /></div><div>Now i can rest. Goodnight.</div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-70295978587168483972010-10-25T14:44:00.000-07:002010-10-25T15:20:35.413-07:00Next chapter.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bNgWMZJgqWKqz99-MU4P7yMwjJcWvolzC7vzrhzRiLZlPrgWeJI-N9KHCC4zaXjj6ASdqUl_2ijB-n42yG83vfyBlTlmb7US-SMwEpa3zEiObPQYzYZZpkDQYtxlNuWkYdGLYbMyGF4/s1600/vulnerable.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 223px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bNgWMZJgqWKqz99-MU4P7yMwjJcWvolzC7vzrhzRiLZlPrgWeJI-N9KHCC4zaXjj6ASdqUl_2ijB-n42yG83vfyBlTlmb7US-SMwEpa3zEiObPQYzYZZpkDQYtxlNuWkYdGLYbMyGF4/s320/vulnerable.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532110067814445874" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Ever want to skip the Chapter your in?</div><div style="text-align: left;">I've always wanted to feel things and learn things but never have anyone notice. Hoping I could go through this rough patch without loosing the perception you have of me. People can be locked inside there own body and no one ever tells them its ok to become vulnerable. Vulnerability is where real beauty is received. If you never see me struggle ill just become a person who looks good on paper. Or someone you will never admire. Someone who lives simply with no stories to tell. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I want you to know its ok to fall, and its ok to stand up in front of everyone and try again. You may get your heart broken more than once, maybe you will sound like a broken record, but living your life adventuring into every corner is worth the risk. I promise you will have a story at the end of this people can learn from.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Don't ever regret loving someone, but dont ever compromise who you are here to be. Don't let things go unsaid, but don't forget how your own heart has been bruised.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Allow people to be vulnerable with you. Love them and hold there hand as they walk away from there fears, doubts, and sins. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And when you get to the parts you want to skip remember hold onto your purpose in Jesus. I loose my balance on this tight rope, but there is nothing that can ketch me like the love I have available to me through Christ. So when I have to come clean and I am vulnerable to you all, I will be safe. Everyone has there knew beginnings when they realize who they are is not who they have been. Through all this comes transparency. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Hide no more.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Enjoy where you are.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Be who you are.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Discover those around you.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-62289032220317803932010-04-23T10:05:00.000-07:002010-04-23T10:07:31.294-07:00I'll Never Let You Go<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; ">Why are you striving these days<br />Why are you trying to earn grace<br />Why are you crying<br />Let me lift up your face<br />Just don't turn away<br /><br />Why are you looking for love<br />Why are you still searching as if I'm not enough<br />To where will you go child<br />Tell me where will you run<br />To where will you run<br /><br />And I'll be by your side<br />Wherever you fall<br />In the dead of night<br />Whenever you call<br />And please don't fight<br />These hands that are holding you<br />My hands are holding you<br /><br />Look at these hands and my side<br />They swallowed the grave on that night<br />When I drank the world's sin<br />So I could carry you in<br />And give you life<br />I want to give you life<br /><br />Cause I, I love you<br />I want you to know<br />That I, I love you<br />I'll never let you go</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">(Tenth Avenue North)</span></div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-6495050373051380122010-04-23T01:08:00.000-07:002010-04-23T01:50:19.612-07:00New Love.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidJ8Y_eSrZhCsT-gXGuvXPpfggKQqAjahGS1-IfGPEZTUnK_N7ru7Se3rpiFCM4DH5bb9zUStDeSXEIG0enPZKzY75cZ1KJ7VPHM2wWFgEwQtG-dr1r91xxQYRu1eDSBzkm52F8uTC4dk/s1600/America_-_oak_tree_in_new_england_sunrise.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidJ8Y_eSrZhCsT-gXGuvXPpfggKQqAjahGS1-IfGPEZTUnK_N7ru7Se3rpiFCM4DH5bb9zUStDeSXEIG0enPZKzY75cZ1KJ7VPHM2wWFgEwQtG-dr1r91xxQYRu1eDSBzkm52F8uTC4dk/s200/America_-_oak_tree_in_new_england_sunrise.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5463252460308243746" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">------<br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">So maybe someday we will figure all this out. Maybe someday we will be better off. Maybe some day we will know just how good it can get. But really there are no words right now...its just that same big sigh i give with a frog in the back of my throat. Knowing that i did it again, knowing i seeked a filling to my heart in the wrong place...the same place. <br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">------</div><div style="text-align: center;">When will i learn?</div><div style="text-align: center;">i was expected to not give up and suffer.</div><div style="text-align: center;">When will you know?</div><div style="text-align: center;">-----</div><div style="text-align: center;">A love that had never been deeper.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Is lost.</div><div style="text-align: center;">But a new one begins. And He never fails me.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Hallelujah He Reigns, He Reigns in my heart.</div><div><br /></div><div>Prayer:</div><div>Lord being still is what I need.</div><div>Being transparent is what i need to achieve.</div><div>Lord your brightness is being covered by dark clouds.</div><div>So Lord let it rain down on me. </div><div>And when it clears, it will be a new day. </div><div>And so that day belongs to you.</div><div>Then when my heart bumps it will be a loving beat :)</div><div>Lord lets go to our secret place, in the field of serenity, just you and me.</div><div>Remember how we would dance, in those lavender fields. </div><div>Find me there again.</div><div>Then under that Oak tree we will rest.</div><div>And there, you will cure my heart.</div><div>To you be the glory.</div><div><br /></div><div>Amen</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-48952688355060965082010-01-26T01:49:00.000-08:002010-01-26T02:35:38.297-08:00Me Vs. The Mask<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhtemv_RCYdzV1AuJyCNy-BwWhjuVgzomwsbmYQQ84ZKZI7t6ufIjoCivIx4U79kZ9eFYLqVkb5u4-Vvr4cehZz2313sRjWj2KH_QWDQ_cOF1BtQw2HGdQ3jjGasE4mtda5qpRsQRmlYc/s1600-h/A+glum+man+with+a+happy+mask.gif"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhtemv_RCYdzV1AuJyCNy-BwWhjuVgzomwsbmYQQ84ZKZI7t6ufIjoCivIx4U79kZ9eFYLqVkb5u4-Vvr4cehZz2313sRjWj2KH_QWDQ_cOF1BtQw2HGdQ3jjGasE4mtda5qpRsQRmlYc/s200/A+glum+man+with+a+happy+mask.gif" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430994762190628834" /></a><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;">Lets face it Love can easily fit behind a mask.<br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Mask of Words.</span></div><div style="text-align: right;">Mask of Sex.</div><div style="text-align: right;">Mask of holding.</div><div style="text-align: right;">Mask of a smile.</div><div style="text-align: right;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Mask of promises.</span></div><div style="text-align: right;">But what really is behind the mask is <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">lies.</span></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;">The enemy molds people to break their promises, to restrict themselves from showing how they can love. Lives are destroyed by the misuse of love, countries even. So why do we still go after it? Why do we always fall so hard when we know what made us fall before? The world has put on a mask of love but what really is behind the mask is a deceiver. </div><div style="text-align: right;">So why i ask again? </div><div style="text-align: right;">Because we all know <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">we have a real genuine love to give</span>.</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;">False relationships of love can tear a person apart, left feeling used and alone. So how do you avoid this? What would have made you wait until you had God's permission? Honestly looking back as a 16 year i dont think there was a thing in the world that would have stopped me. All i new was pure love, i had never felt mistreated in my entire life so i was naive enough to believe that would never happen to me because i never saw myself mistreating someone. The mask was so real looking, and there was a big heart inside i wanted to hold.</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;">Then there comes a point where the mask comes off. You are aware of its powers but you believe you know the person trapped inside really loves you. So what do you do then? How do you leave someone behind that you have given more than you should to? After all if i was trapped in there i wouldn't want to be left behind. So she begins to fight this war that was never hers in the first place. She fights but her ammo and skills dont compete because they are being misused. So again she is left defeated, used and alone. So this cycle begins and before she knows it she is almost 20 and finally realizes the mask has toyed and rearranged the last 3 1/2 years of her life. But to find her dignity intact and her love for Jesus Christ strengthened and full of romance. The scars are disappearing. She gets to focus on herself and stare straight into the eyes of the Lord without shame.</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;">She cant run from the past, present, or future but she can take it and keep what has made her bones stronger, her heart prepared, and her mind more clear. She had love for him no doubt, and if she could she would take all his struggles and demolish them, the worlds struggles even, but he just could not sacrifice his selfish desires, but he will someday. Someday he will be free from whatever it was that held his arms down and his voice inside. I may not ever know the reasons why but accepting that is the only way i can heal. </div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;">What amazes me is through the years my love for Jesus has never disappeared, and my faith in his love has never been questioned. I've only questioned myself. Jesus offers us a love so pure its easy to not feel worthy of it, i know ive felt that way recently. Purity is what i long for within myself and within my relationship with Jesus Christ. I want to be sure the love i give is pure and reliable and what better way to learn than to love, Love its self!</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;">Amen.</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div></div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-9454999094813173972009-12-25T21:41:00.000-08:002009-12-25T22:36:58.474-08:00All because you died that day.Today is Christmas day, and it was one of the best Christmas's i have ever had. I am so blessed to have a family who loves me and I love in return. Couldn't ask for a better family than i have.<div><br /></div><div>I know not many people read this and really i am ok with that. It's just nice to know that my feelings are being put out there, almost a relief in a way so there not so boggled down inside. Today was a great day but there is a something in the air around me and in me that wanted more. As today came closer to the end and i had moments where i stopped and looked around me i wished there was one person in my life who desired to share these moments with me in a different way. Although i know that day will come soon, its always hard to believe it will. Lately i am wondering if i am becoming that person who looses belief in love. The kind of love that comes rarely from one human to another. Because i have only experienced let down when someone decides to love me, it always comes to an end. So lately when i think of love i think of the times i have been deeply scarred. Maybe the only true love is from God. But then again i have examples of amazing relationship around me so love must be real. I know love is real, after all i am its biggest promoter. I suppose i had a moment today where i felt so alone, i couldn't breathe. Heck today i was so helpful, trying to get rid of all the thoughts that were crowding space in my head. i picked up every piece garbage i saw, i took pictures, i picked up peoples plates when they were done. If i had a purpose all my misfortunes didn't matter so much. And being single really isn't a misfortune its just not what i want for myself but God knows better.</div><div><br /></div><div>When i got in the car tonight waiting for my parents to get in, the night concluded. As i sat there i whispered to God "I am ready for commitment, i am ready for what's real."</div><div><br /></div><div>When i got home from my grandpas i gathered all my gifts and put them in the appropriate places and made sure my room stayed clean. When i was cleaning my room i realized how much i love change. My parents tried to get me to move back into the big room in the garage but i kept refusing and i didn't really have a reason for them. Change is something that sustains me whether its a good or bad thing. I have lived in every room in my house except my parents room. Especially when a memory haunts me in one place i will move to the next and make a better memory to replace it. I am now in the smallest room in the house with a bed that takes up about 70% of the space. But right now i don't think i have ever had a room that represents me more than this one.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the last year there has been so much change, a lot of it was scary but turned into a beautiful things. We had our first grand baby/niece spend christmas with us this year. Morgan Grace is beautiful and reminds us all how precious life is. We cant get enough of her pure, gentle and perfect love. </div><div><br /></div><div>This day will always begin and end with the Birth of Jesus Christ. But instead of focusing only on his birth it is important to remember his death and resurrection. last night i was working on my parents gift and needed to find a quote or verse to put on their gift. I was thinking and thought of something.</div><div><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">Faith is what you showed…<br />Love is what you perfected…<br />Grace is what we receive…</p> <p class="MsoNormal">…All because you died that day.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Jesus paid it all. He came for you and i so we could have a love that we could never imagine a tangible love that never ends. He brought light into my life and a promise that can never be taken. I am so thankful to belong to king that loves me more than i could ever love him. </p><p class="MsoNormal">So i choose to end with that today :)</p> <!--EndFragment--> </div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-74267676508568855602009-12-22T22:14:00.000-08:002009-12-22T22:16:28.951-08:00Pouring Rain Drops Back in to a Cloud<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 13px; ">Standing at the back door<br />She tried to make it fast<br />One tear hit the hard wood<br />It fell like broken glass<br />She said sometimes love slips away<br />And you just can't get it back<br />Let's face it<br /><br />For one split second<br />She almost turned around<br />But that would be like pouring rain drops<br />Back into a cloud<br />So she took another step and said<br />I see the way out and I'm gonna' take it<br /><br />I don't wanna' spend my life jaded<br />Waiting to wake up one day and find<br />That I've let all these years go by<br />Wasted<br /><br />Another glass of whisky but it still don't kill the pain<br />So he stumbles to the sink and pours it down the drain<br />He says it's time to be a man and stop living for yesterday<br />Gotta face it.<br /><br />Cause' I don't wanna' spend my life jaded<br />Waiting to wake up one day and find<br />That I've let all these years go by<br />Wasted<br /><br />Oh I don't wanna' keep on wishing, missing<br />The still of the morning, the color of the night<br />I ain't spending no more time<br />Wasted<br /><br />She kept drivin' along<br />Till the moon and the sun were floating side-by-side<br />He looked in the mirror and his eyes were clear<br />For the first time in a while<br /><br />Hey, yeah,<br />Oh, I don't wanna' spend my life jaded<br />Waiting to wake up one day and find<br />That I've let all these years go by<br />Wasted<br /><br />Oh I don't wanna' keep on wishing, missing<br />The still of the morning, the color of the night<br />I ain't spending no more time<br />Wasted</span>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-48024834073474037242009-12-05T00:02:00.000-08:002009-12-05T00:04:51.138-08:00Sugarland: You just might make me believe<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new';">I got miles of trouble spreadin' far and wide<br />Bills on the table gettin' higher and higher<br />They just keep on comin', there ain't no end in sight<br />I'm just holdin' on tight<br /><br />I got someone who loves me more than words can say<br />And I'm thankful for that each and every day<br />And if I count all my blessings, I get a smile on my face<br />Still it's hard to find faith<br /><br />But if you can look in my eyes<br />And tell me we'll be alright<br />If you promise never to leave<br />You just might make me believe<br /><br />It's just day to day tryin' to make ends meet<br />What I'd give for an address out on Easy Street<br />I need a deep margarita to help me unwind<br />Leave my troubles behind<br /><br />I used to believe in us when times go tough<br />But lately I'm afraid that even love is not enough<br /><br />But if you can look in my eyes<br />And tell me we'll be alright<br />If you promise never to leave<br />You just might make me<br />Oh you just make me<br />You just might make me believe</span></span>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-56560957139258900312009-12-02T23:50:00.000-08:002009-12-03T00:00:49.133-08:00OregonI'm down to a week and half of school left, then home to Oregon. But the end of this semester seems so far off. I am so swamped in papers, and assignments, and finals next week is a different story. My body seems to have given up before i would like it to. I've written 3 papers so far this week and have done 6 assignments, but that isn't even the tip of the iceberg. I need strength, and rest. A good friend suggested i take things one at a time...like baby steps. Good advice but my worrying mind takes over a lot and i keep looking at the big picture! For once i shouldn't look at the big picture right now.<div><br /></div><div>Home to Oregon, sounds really nice, home for good :)</div><div>I'm exciting to be moving back home and feel complete peace about it. God has some things waiting for me there and i am excited to receive it.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now just over this hurtle.</div><div><br /></div><div>3 research papers, 1 book review, a few assignments and 4 finals away from home.</div><div><br /></div><div>Lord these days are yours.</div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-73167592328506898252009-11-26T13:33:00.000-08:002009-11-26T13:38:33.282-08:00I'm an Aunt... finally<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRqakU0mYKgCgAfjusOPucCsp8Kr4fHyE2658TeD6uULMzMAcPn0jJwLRS3Q5PSJye8wq3cAz3fGJNJrfYUjM2ji622wkNnDBbGluKxvJEu9HhLUUKb0gSNUB2xXaJU0fqjGfSTGqDmGE/s1600/CIMG1873.JPG"><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRqakU0mYKgCgAfjusOPucCsp8Kr4fHyE2658TeD6uULMzMAcPn0jJwLRS3Q5PSJye8wq3cAz3fGJNJrfYUjM2ji622wkNnDBbGluKxvJEu9HhLUUKb0gSNUB2xXaJU0fqjGfSTGqDmGE/s200/CIMG1873.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408529274208819074" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Baby Morgan entered the world at 2:50 p.m. Wednesday the 25 th at 8 pounds 4 oz. 20.25 inches.<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHsF5F91CVRvcynVwNcOb7o4B2nOEORDYH3hdjiB7Hpa4ncL27NZ1lKXMwtzWy5QWDBNWIW-yzU7VZsesf41gBFTduzdWowVsxI7t-MqYufoBpOU09P1I8Mu0qPyRH3CH1-Py7x0zqs7k/s1600/CIMG1855.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHsF5F91CVRvcynVwNcOb7o4B2nOEORDYH3hdjiB7Hpa4ncL27NZ1lKXMwtzWy5QWDBNWIW-yzU7VZsesf41gBFTduzdWowVsxI7t-MqYufoBpOU09P1I8Mu0qPyRH3CH1-Py7x0zqs7k/s200/CIMG1855.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408529268188506786" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh5uVWXq_pCd3GPsALg2b_EvXOnmEUNcLgPh6sOguUz7OTwlvuBCqPlg_m8RMTGcCRtLNDI3TnpPGeg0b43zMagH3ahUUe2K9TQwU38G18tEMxpxd7H6-dmKdoCas0_iOCF4hexPj0BWY/s1600/CIMG1871.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh5uVWXq_pCd3GPsALg2b_EvXOnmEUNcLgPh6sOguUz7OTwlvuBCqPlg_m8RMTGcCRtLNDI3TnpPGeg0b43zMagH3ahUUe2K9TQwU38G18tEMxpxd7H6-dmKdoCas0_iOCF4hexPj0BWY/s200/CIMG1871.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408529256045071570" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRSMiJZJHDtEoeeQg5ODqLXMueKvhF1qsR4X87Bb6_E9Gb1AzQZylaiq5DAvLG1Ccs5oZKwQuZPZFaFNJTS1OysltHXJ96fXwkSFZDulJz2EiEeaYmrItqA8Zi_M1e8c8kwdY7vTGJI0U/s1600/CIMG1862.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRSMiJZJHDtEoeeQg5ODqLXMueKvhF1qsR4X87Bb6_E9Gb1AzQZylaiq5DAvLG1Ccs5oZKwQuZPZFaFNJTS1OysltHXJ96fXwkSFZDulJz2EiEeaYmrItqA8Zi_M1e8c8kwdY7vTGJI0U/s200/CIMG1862.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408529244465128082" /><br /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span>New Life.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Answered payers.</div><div style="text-align: center;">New Beginnings.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Love has begun again.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Happy Thanksgiving :)</div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-45081493616755397902009-11-01T01:00:00.000-07:002009-11-01T01:38:17.111-08:00Takes Chances<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">God has a plan.<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">HE is working in us and he will never stop working in us.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">No matter what you do or choose, God will always be making you a better man or women, once you take a new step in life that process does not end.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">You don't have to be the best in order to get the best, but having the right motive and attitude is important, and what you decide to do with the best is important.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">What I'm trying to say is don't let fear rule your life, and what you feel God is telling you to do, i suggest you do it, but don't be blinded by fear and forget your ability to move.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">Your entitled to joy, happiness, and love.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">Take every chance to fly.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">Don't live a dull life.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">Take chances and see what God can do with them.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">I see this beautiful life in my dreams. I admit that i have high expectation on my future, also on myself. But is it really all that bad to have amazing expectations on your life? Why is it so looked down upon and seen so unrealistic that i want to be so in love with the man i will marry? If you want it, and i want it, then why can't we have the attitude of love? I believe that my heart is </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">meant to be given away</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">, and yes i can be stupid enough to give it to the wrong people but....but when i give it to the right person, the right people, all that </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">joy surpasses all hurt</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"> i have ever felt, that hurt disappears and joy over takes me. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">I deserve to have the love i long to give, and so do you.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">And this beautiful life i speak of, the life i live everyday, it has already begun. I may be in waiting but i know that whats coming is beautiful, and </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">I'm not afraid</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"> to say that. I</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"> am not afraid</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"> to say that good things are coming to me because as surely as bad times come good times before and after. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">So I look forward to the times when I'm in trial</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"> because without them i wouldn't know the meaning of love, happiness, belonging, and joy.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">I know I will hurt</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">, with or without blame, and i expect it. All i want is for us to stop the doubting and realize that joy resides in you and around you, and its from Jesus Christ. A love coming from </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">Jesus Christ is the perfect love</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">, and thats just something i cant pass up. A love that would die for you and did...Jesus died for you, and so would I.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">I am a foolish person</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">. I chase after things that aren't sure while holding a grip on solid ground. I write things on this blog that may seem way to personal for comfort, for an outsider to read. To me there is no sense holding this inside, or anything for that matter. If we were meant to live in a box then God would not have given us lungs.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-55773464813332825672009-10-29T00:50:00.000-07:002009-10-29T01:22:09.487-07:00Love<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85vd9O94O48o1fZZp3YPkAd0ElWaAuvl181ui6UdbLJq1kmEcl3DKOMk-_BxpGHetiBlimTnwg6Mtr9yBuMxHmBz1t_exv_XVH13PeDi0HqFrgzjsrPfsZ6rfGEatqu8iTfFmyQUDfVI/s1600-h/Graffiti_Love_by_JDawg4098.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 189px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85vd9O94O48o1fZZp3YPkAd0ElWaAuvl181ui6UdbLJq1kmEcl3DKOMk-_BxpGHetiBlimTnwg6Mtr9yBuMxHmBz1t_exv_XVH13PeDi0HqFrgzjsrPfsZ6rfGEatqu8iTfFmyQUDfVI/s320/Graffiti_Love_by_JDawg4098.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397933788178630194" /></a><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">In these times God is good, holds me close, and love every part of me.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Most the time i do not feel this world is good, holds me close or loves every part of me.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Unless i fit all of its standards, and of course i have never.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">God's love should be represented by our relationships.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Are your relationships reflecting these things that God never fails at? :</div><div style="text-align: center;">God chooses to love us.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Keep no record of our sins.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Calls us beautiful.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Never lets go of our hand.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Comforts our every need.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Gets us roses every year.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Never fails us.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Patient with us.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Is so kind when we turn the wrong way.</div><div style="text-align: center;">He is so faithful to fulfill our needs.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">He calls me beautiful.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I am His beloved and He is mine.</div><div style="text-align: center;">He thinks of me more highly than i think of myself.</div><div style="text-align: center;">He never falls short.</div><div style="text-align: center;">He amazes me throughout the day and comforts me by night.</div><div style="text-align: center;">He is all i need.</div><div style="text-align: center;">He is my rock and my shelter.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I will praise Him for my struggles, for i gain strength.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Let God fill you with His Spirit.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Let God over take your heart.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Let God romance you.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Let God control your life.</div><div style="text-align: center;">For if you do you will see amazing things that you yourself cannot explain but just by the mention of His name.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Yet God is all of these things i still forget, hurt, and feel pain.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I am only human and if i did not forget, hurt and feel pain then i would not need God.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I never want to let HIM go.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Thank you for never letting me go.</div></div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-48161604183666317132009-10-25T01:15:00.000-07:002009-10-25T01:19:32.764-07:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHHtlnwYbC6df-bGu44k8n44cqRMJYtjdik4RFDqkSkzldHoU2G4vUvIf0IGaW_oDkyXKBvA4X2krvHbt3_aDIJMPUO5E_7oFSdg4POT2Y-4Wyrsd02wc9hU_FJ_WS8pBRteFwpnsaGyg/s1600-h/Photo+222.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHHtlnwYbC6df-bGu44k8n44cqRMJYtjdik4RFDqkSkzldHoU2G4vUvIf0IGaW_oDkyXKBvA4X2krvHbt3_aDIJMPUO5E_7oFSdg4POT2Y-4Wyrsd02wc9hU_FJ_WS8pBRteFwpnsaGyg/s320/Photo+222.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396448769043832466" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCyVH8jNZhtljE9ug4CcKonMe6UVsYo_-V3FB1CuTD2iuBcj9Bs7nUDd8tdQVCefw6Dw4b3BBRiwHr2eTd2qYjR2SBK7P1pM1Qm6znbCbbp6wEOGeo0RSdtEu85xa5eCcjKUtQieZJ6fc/s1600-h/Photo+221.jpg"><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCyVH8jNZhtljE9ug4CcKonMe6UVsYo_-V3FB1CuTD2iuBcj9Bs7nUDd8tdQVCefw6Dw4b3BBRiwHr2eTd2qYjR2SBK7P1pM1Qm6znbCbbp6wEOGeo0RSdtEu85xa5eCcjKUtQieZJ6fc/s320/Photo+221.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396448759813031922" /></a>Jess and I decided to take a few moments out of our weekend and relax!!! haha are you scared? Its actaully a beautiful thing! our skin has never been so soft!! hehe Thank you Jess for spending that 2 dollars along with me to create a great memory. I love you with all my heart :)Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-16572015152313131702009-10-21T23:34:00.000-07:002009-10-21T23:50:04.385-07:00I once thought...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 15px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">I’m trying to follow<br />I’m trying my best to do what you said<br />But what about tomorrow <br />Are you sure I’m not in over my head <br /><br />Everything is changing all around me<br />Is this the ending of a dream<br />I thought I was doing what you wanted<br />It isn’t as easy as it seemed<br /><br />I’m losing my vision <br />I’m fighting the doubting with all that I am<br />It’s been awhile since you last gave me something <br />To go on<br />Tell me it’s not the end<br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">It seemed like I did everything right <br />Now I see that it’s all wrong<br />Do you want me to move on<br />Can you tell me where I belong</span></span></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">This life is not mine</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">It seemed to spin out out of control</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">Once i took the reins</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">My vision became blurred</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">Dont let my eyes get used to darkness</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">I see the light</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">Dont let your heart get used to sadness</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">i will put my hope in what is true.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">No matter what the tied pulls </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">It will not shake this love</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">I am drowning in a love so deep</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">How can i be distracted?</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">So Lord right now...</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">Take my selfish desires</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">Take what is not of your will</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">I am laying them on the ground</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">Jesus Save me</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">From a life so confusing</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">To a life full of your love.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">Strip me.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">I want to be naked before You and not feel shame.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">I feel so ashamed now</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">but this is how its supposed to be.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">Cover me.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">You know my heart Lord</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">Thoughts of others do not count</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">You will protect me and you will love me.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;">In your arms i will remain.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'times new roman'; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-75897948850344648452009-10-20T13:20:00.000-07:002009-10-20T13:33:59.939-07:00I long to be in control...<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">I will not find joy in circumstances but in the Lord.</span><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">Even when faith is little, hope has run drive and love seems rare, my heart remains sustained in the Lord. Easy to say but hard to achieve. We have all had our share of hard times, but in those hard times have we taken advantage of the fact that in Him we are safe and secure? Jesus longs for us to allow him to fight for us. We seem to fight little battles everyday but we forget that Jesus already won the war by dying on the cross and sending the Holy Spirit. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">My spirit is willing but my flesh is weak. I feel like what holds me back from letting all my struggles go is the longing to be in control. I long to be in control of my thoughts, relationships, and everything i do and want, i try so hard to control everything, but really i have never and wont ever have control. The only one who can control anything is God. When we lay down our hurts, desire, self pity order begins to come in our lives and peace drives us and hope is flourished. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">So lets step off that throne and give it to the one who treats us right and that is Jesus Christ the lover of our deepest soul. </span></span></span></div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106158738797620849.post-58359552928397149762009-10-14T14:04:00.000-07:002009-10-14T14:35:22.643-07:00Family is where the heart is.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjsQBuj9hSwbbapC6k9rlWuxN83fSTSgYeXWLE4xxqF8HJq9lgxO4wfkl19XtzUDIRd4iV3ngfZBl8C7hZFpgdPcUsg0IB3tWZ9QGRXq0Zw639yl88T82aS1iLD_NVTgVGTx4gYLlwEBo/s1600-h/IMG_9810copy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjsQBuj9hSwbbapC6k9rlWuxN83fSTSgYeXWLE4xxqF8HJq9lgxO4wfkl19XtzUDIRd4iV3ngfZBl8C7hZFpgdPcUsg0IB3tWZ9QGRXq0Zw639yl88T82aS1iLD_NVTgVGTx4gYLlwEBo/s200/IMG_9810copy.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392571656032628562" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUYwbjqBbQtnKZZrbyzu7sphB1roECRqfR-ZZPOrgIpGYL4xNd9-pU-s-9_Qodt_uoS9FhdKrbtkgA3FNavx3ZaerpE2gYy0XgX0liKos8CAWRUCZyZHJLZiWLTrxfBmvklreFVMBw5b4/s1600-h/family+2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUYwbjqBbQtnKZZrbyzu7sphB1roECRqfR-ZZPOrgIpGYL4xNd9-pU-s-9_Qodt_uoS9FhdKrbtkgA3FNavx3ZaerpE2gYy0XgX0liKos8CAWRUCZyZHJLZiWLTrxfBmvklreFVMBw5b4/s200/family+2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392571648440176466" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEaFidYZhhqqP3y-3A2Chvk_XZxe351SqAWWNihGzJ6370uMXIThaPr_NMpDEDngT_-OPgO_vdGkJQTrP0kbQFj1ivqmB7NLgwTHrNKN2Zr6yJFBLelmh5lwGd5hdu4WSovOkOIhF7CS8/s1600-h/family.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEaFidYZhhqqP3y-3A2Chvk_XZxe351SqAWWNihGzJ6370uMXIThaPr_NMpDEDngT_-OPgO_vdGkJQTrP0kbQFj1ivqmB7NLgwTHrNKN2Zr6yJFBLelmh5lwGd5hdu4WSovOkOIhF7CS8/s200/family.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392571640833686610" /></a><br />When i left home my first year of college i couldn't wait to get out of that town. I couldn't wait to begin the dreams that had formed in my mind, to be independent and to see where God would take me and what i would learn. As i was driving away that town disappeared in my rear view mirror, and i wasn't so sad to see it become so distant. <div><br /></div><div>When i arrived to my destination i was faced with trials, decisions, and paths. I had to gut a lot of things out of my life and start from the a foundation i was thankful i did have. In my mind i saw this soiled, perfectly plowed field, but with buildings that looked crooked and very unstable, some even beginning to rust. God showed me plainly that i needed clear them away and start to grow instead of build, you see we need Gods help to grow a plant, we can't make a plant grow but just give it what it needs...with a building its quite the opposite, we take it upon our selves to pound things together, and we often get what we want, but in this case it wasnt what God wanted. God shatter me, broke me into pieces that grew in the ground.</div><div><br /></div><div>So some of those decisions influenced home a great deal, home became more of a place i did not want to be, it was a graveyard of memories i never wanted to be reminded of. Yes i had an AMAZING family always waiting at home for me, but i was repulsed by what was waiting for me there and that was pushed down hurts and feelings i covered up. You can see in pervious blogs that dealt with all this hurt and cleaned up a big mess that was deep down inside me. God brought me out of that mess and placed it in front of me and said he wasn't going to move it until i cleaned it up...i really had no choice but to get through it. PRAISE GOD :)</div><div><br /></div><div>So i couldn't wait to leave...now i get wait to get back there. I miss it so much by heart just longs after that house i grew up in, the parents that love me, my sister and josh who are soon having a baby, my brothers and there wives. I have never been reminded of how great my is family more than i have now, i find myself in deep prayer for them often and think about them no less than every hour of the day. </div><div><br /></div><div>I have gone through such a long process in the last year i feel like a completely different person than i was a year ago. In fact i know I'm a different person. I believe it to be a beautiful thing.</div><div><br /></div><div>I see why i am here, and don't get me wrong i love it here, I'm not miserable at all. I just feel this new and special tug in my heart to be home. Oregon is a beautiful place.</div><div><br /></div><div>p.s. I truly and dearly love all my friends at PLBC :) You all have been such a blessing me.</div>Leah Marshallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10195214171126278393noreply@blogger.com0