1 Corinthians 12:4-5 “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit. And, there are variety of ministries, but the same Lord.”
I am resting . . . I really am, but all these things that I’m learning and experiencing about who our God is just have to come out! So, every so often (because when we are weak He is strong), I want to give Him some praise and pass along some of what He is teaching me right now.
For starters, I am coming to understand in a much greater way the power and strength of the body of Christ. Wow! I know I’ve always said it and believed it, but you really are the arms and feet of Jesus. He is at work through you. We can’t ever forget that or downplay that. Christ in us the hope of glory. Through you, He speaks, He comforts, He encourages, He serves, He transforms . . . through YOU! What you do in Jesus’ name matters greatly. As a member of His body, your contribution is powerful in His Kingdom. The very gates of hell cannot prevail against His church!
I’m realizing this now because I guess I’ve never been, at least to this degree, on the receiving end of such an outpouring of Christ through His people. I am so encouraged to think of all that can be accomplished for God’s glory as His church arises, is filled afresh with His Spirit and marches forward rolling back the darkness. I just want to encourage you to continue to allow God to use you in your families, your neighborhoods, your work environments – wherever He has placed you. Speak that word of truth and hope. Pray with, not just for, people as you have opportunity. Expect God to work. Take the faith-risk He is asking you to take and trust Him to multiply whatever act of obedience you offer, however small it may seem. He will do more than you imagine!
I’m also reminded how grateful the Apostle Paul was for those who labored alongside him in prayer. The term wrestling is used to describe this labor of love. Your prayers are fuel for holy fire! I am experiencing this now and believe that there is no greater gift that you can give. The prayers of righteous men are powerful and effective. Oh what God will accomplish through the prayers of His people. Pray on. For some you’ve prayed so long; keep praying. Know that God is listening, working, answering and that His Kingdom will come and His will will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Now, this part is just from my heart to yours – how can I thank you? You will never know how much your love and care have meant and continue to mean to this family. Those of you I know personally, and those of you I don’t know yet, thank you! From deep inside we thank you. Christ is Victor and He is helping me walk in victory. Thank you, Jesus!
Love and prayers, Kristen
Nelda Bayer says
May the Holy Spirit surround you as you have never felt before is my prayer for you!
Pam Robertson says
Kristen,
You and your family have been on my heart for the past couple of weeks since I heard the news. I have been lifting you up in prayer throughout the day and praying for your comfort and peace. This world needs your beautiful smile and words of truth as well as the your witness as you defeat the enemy who is attacking you. You have been an inspiration to me and I will NOT quit prayiing.
Blessings and God’s Love showered on you.
Pam
Tamara says
hugs and prayers for you and your sweet family
Whitney Phillips says
http://youtu.be/A8JsRxVczmQ
Praying for you Kristen and your family. While I was listenining to Strong Enough by Matthew West, I thought of you. You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you! Blessings and may the Lord deliver you and and your family from every evil attack!!
Olivia voyles says
Dear mrs.Kristen,
You are part of my family. We love and care about you VERY much. You are In out hearts and minds all the time. My mom has been thinking about you ALOT and you can tell more than anything that she wants you okay. I found a quote on my iPod that said god gives his biggest problems to his strongest solders. God has and is letting all this happen for a reason. Might not be clear to us now, but alittle later down the road, it will be very clear. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. God has a purpose for what is going on. You are in our prays, and thoughts all day long. We love you very much and KNOW everything is going to be okay. I love you So much mrs.saucer.
Love,
Olivia V.
linda and tom stosberg says
Love, hugs and prayers to you, your precious family. We are praying for your physical stamina to increase mightedly and trusting our Abba Father t
o answer our prayers. We love you all very much my dear sister in Christ.
Kim Gossett says
Kristen-
Through your storm, you still continue to bless others with your powerful words of truth! You are truly a gifted author and speaker. Prayers are with you. We think of you and your precious family each and every day. Thank you for your updates so that we can continue to know how to pray. We love you guys!
Rebecca Ackermann says
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers! Praying for God’s healing and peace! Thank you for all you do with your ministry!
Laurie and Greg says
Our family continues to surround you in a circle of prayer each day – along with prayers throughout the day being lifted up for strength, healing and His perfect peace. Praying specifically today, for a good report from the radiologist. Psalm 103 … Praise the Lord – O my soul. Praising Him already for what is and what is to come. Love you so much!
Martha Hamilton says
So good to hear your words today Kristen in this message. God woke me early this morning before the sun rose and He placed you in the center of our time together. You are on His mind and He desires to give you the desires of your heart. I will continue to wrestle in prayer for you, your dear family and for His glory to shine. I just can’t explain in words how much you and Kurt mean to Lee and I. I thank Him for our eternal friendship, for Further Still Ministries and for your complete healing from the top of your head to the tip of your toes. He is our Mighty God, healer of all our diseases.
Kelly cook says
Kristen,
Hang in there, I know God will heal u, just like he healed me!!! I am praying for you, just like you prayed with me when my face was palrzed!! Here is a song that helped me when I felt bad….by Kerrie Roberts it’s called NO MATTER WHAT!! Hope you are having a great day!
Love
Kelly
Ps. Kurt hang in there!!
Linda says
Kristen…..(Isaiah 40:31 but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.) Kristen…you and your family are constantly in my prayers.
Steve and Kathie Hodge says
Kurt and Kristen,
Our word for you is that ..” You are never alone . God is your refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore you both will not fear, though the the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, thoughts waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging ..psalm 46:1-3
Nothing happens to us that doesn’t happen to the life of Christ in us .
We are praying against fatigue and fear … And peace that passes all understanding . We love you all. Kathie and Steve
Roger and Cathy LaPointe says
Kurt and Kristen, Praying for you both and the kids as well. Your in our thoughts and prayers daily. You have both been an inspiration in our lives and so many other people as well. Consider you part of our extended family. If you need anything we are there.
R
Josh Henderson says
Kristen your prayers are in my heart and I pray for your strength and your family’s strength. I believe in the power of prayer! Thanks you for your amazing writings in time of uncertainty. God bless you!
Lauren Evans says
Kristen, Kurt & Family,
I just want to first say My thoughts & prayers are & have been with you since I heard the news. I also want to say YES the power of prayer is so beyond Powerful! It was the two of you who stood with me prayed over me when my Cancer Diagnosis came out. Anoited me and within two weeks my cancer was gone. Although it has reared it’s ugly head again I have no doubt that this “monster” will once again be defeated by My God. Because of you two my faith is so stong. My Seven year old’s Faith is stong! I want to personally Thank you both for being a picture of Jesus’ face! I love you both dearly and will continue to Pray for healing & comfort & wisdom. Love always!