Thankful for my church family

I'm Thankful For....... You!

"May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you." 1 Thessalonians 3:12 (NIV)

Yes Evergreen, I'm thankful for you, my CHURCH FAMILY. You’ve earned the motto: “The Church Where Everyone Is Welcome.” You have such a spirit of love and openness to all people. I thank you for being my family. I thank you for helping me raise my children, for supporting our marriage, for your commitment to the Lord, and your loyalty to us. You have been the best church family any Pastor’s wife could pray for. You have cried with me, celebrated with me, supported me, challenged me, and helped me to grow. It has been wonderful to minister alongside you. As we give thanks during this season, I’m grateful for you!

Your Servant,

~Lady Paula

Real Freedom

Real Freedom

"To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, 'If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.'” (John 8:31, 32 NIV)

What does freedom mean to you? Does it mean doing and saying whatever you want when you want with no restraints? Well, that's what the world tells us. The problem with that is: it causes chaos/confusion and a lot people get hurt. Real freedom brings PEACE. Peace in your heart, mind, and your spirit. We can find that peace in God's Word as we allow His Holy Spirit to "break every chain" and set us free. Jesus tells us that when we know and walk in His teachings we will be able to clearly see the TRUTH. We have been so blinded by the lies of satan that we are walking around in circles bound up. But I declare today that freedom is yours! God loves you and wants you to be free to be who HE made you to be. God is a holy God, and we have been made in His image.

 

"No more shackles. No more chains. No more bondage. 

I AM FREEEEE! YEAH!" 

Do you really want to be free??

~Lady Paula

Celebrate Pastor pic (of flier)

WHY I PRAY IN THE MORNING

WHY I PRAY IN THE MORNING

 

“In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.” Psalm 5:3 (NIV)

  

Many folks have asked me why I have my devotional and prayer time so early in the morning (usually around 5:15a). Years ago when my children were in elementary school that was the only time I had to myself consistently before midnight. So it was practical. Then it became a habit. But over the years I’ve learned that it’s a necessity. I NEED to spend time with God before I face the world, including my family. Taking the time to get in His presence first thing in the morning and giving Him permission to guide me sets the atmosphere/tone for the day. He reminds me that it’s a day He made, and I can choose to rejoice and be glad in it (Psalm 118:24).  I can also choose to go through the day with my spirit turned to His Spirit, my mind open to His will, and my hands ready to work in any capacity He leads. He helps me conduct myself in ways that are pleasing to Him and will bring Him glory. I’m also eagerly expecting the Holy Spirit to reveal my answered prayers. I don’t take my relationship with God for granted, so I make sure I set aside special time to hear from Him and let Him know that I appreciate His love, sacrifice, mercy, and grace.  

 

~Lady Paula

 

CELEBRATE RESURRECTION 2013

CELEBRATE RESURRECTION!

“And Jesus Christ our Lord was shown to be the Son of God when God powerfully raised him from the dead by means of the Holy Spirit. Through Christ, God has given us the privilege and authority to tell Gentiles everywhere what God has done for them, so that they will believe and obey him, bringing glory to his name.” Romans 1:4-5 (NLT)

 

            As many folks chase the bunny laying the colored eggs and buy new outfits, let us not forget the real reason we honor this time of year. As Believers, we are commemorating the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I’m glad Jesus died for our sins, and paid a debt that we were not worthy to pay. Because of His sacrifice, God now sees us through the blood of Jesus and we have been made the righteousness of God. But it was His resurrection that guaranteed us the right to eternal life! “God powerfully raised him [Jesus] from the dead by the means of the Holy Spirit.” The main difference between Jesus and other so-called ancient prophets is: JESUS IS ALIVE!! He is sitting at the right hand of God interceding on our behalf (Rom. 8:34). And now we have the privilege and authority to tell others about Jesus and show them God’s love. Happy Easter! CELEBRATE THE RESURRECTION!

~Lady Paula

I HAVE NO GREATER JOY

(Repost)

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” ~3John 1:4 (NIV)

This has been an exciting spring and summer for the Woodfolk Home. Both of my babies have graduated and are moving forward.  Brittany graduated from the University of Virginia in May and is working while pursuing a Master’s in Professional Counseling.  Justin graduated from Monticello High School in June and is playing soccer at Shenandoah University while pursuing a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology.  Wow!  GOD IS GOOD!!

As happy as I am about those accomplishments, they don’t compare to the joy I have in knowing that my children have their own personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  Titus 2 tells us that it is the responsibility of godly parents and other spiritually mature Christians to teach the younger generation the ways of godliness and holiness through sound doctrine.  We must give our children the opportunity to see God’s grace and power working in our lives.  After we’ve done all we can do, it’s up to them to receive. Momma and Daddy will continue to pray for their children, but sooner or later -- YOU HAVE TO KNOW HIM FOR YOURSELF.

I really love my family, so about 10 years ago I decided to stop referring to the things that I did or gave up for my children (and my husband) as a sacrifice.  Instead, I started referring to those things as “investments” and “seeds.”  And how many of you know that I EXPECT A RETURN on every investment I’ve made!  My children are “good ground” and I EXPECT A HARVEST!  Hallelujah!!  There have been times of disappointment and loss, but God has always proven Himself faithful.  As my children pursue their degrees, careers, relationships, etc, I pray that they will do it in ways that please God and bring Him glory.  “Nothing could make me happier than getting reports that my children continue diligently in the way of Truth!” (The Message)

~Lady Paula

HAPPY NEW YEAR!! 2013

(Repost)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

“Grace be with you all.” Hebrews 13:25 (NIV)

As we thank God for letting us see another year, it is my prayer that we embrace His grace. Grace is more than God’s unmerited favor which gives us more or better than we deserve. It is His Holy Spirit’s influence in our lives. It is POWER!!! God’s grace through His Holy Spirit makes all things possible (Matt 19:26). Now, this comes with responsibilities because we no longer have excuses.  When we allow the Holy Spirit to guide, rule, or control us then He will make us “more than conquerors” (Rom. 8:37) in every area of our lives. The Holy Spirit will also comfort us and give us the kind of peace and joy that only comes when we have a relationship with God’s Son, Jesus. I’m excited about the many opportunities that God has for each of us and for The Body of Christ. Great and might is our God!

God bless,

~Lady Paula

“I’m taking the limits off. All things are possible… I can have favor…promise…joy unspeakable. I’m taking the limits off. ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE.” ~City of Life