Sunday, December 12, 2010

Mary Did You Know - guitarrx3girl - Emily & Rachel Bt

These are friends of mine! They are awesome! Please watch, listen and be blessed!

Thursday, November 18, 2010

NaNoWriMo - Getting there! :)



This is my lovely calender that shows the days I worked on my novel...Sadly there are 3 days that I did over the word count I needed....3 days I wrote a few hundred words, 1 day I wrote next to nothing and 11 days where I didn't write at all. Now the question is....will I reach my 50,000 and finish my book???

Well, you will have to wait and see. Regardless I will finish this book! However, there is much to do with it yet! So prayers would be appreciated! (As would a double mocha chocolate frap! Which have been my favorite drink this month! :D )

The book is entitled: Single Seasons: Becoming a Godly Lady-In-Waiting.

Something that is heavily on my heart, and that I hope to get published!

Well back to class, so that I can write more and then so I can go to work to come home to write more. I need to average 3,000 words a day to finish on time! Thanks everyone!

~Brittany L. Ketter (1 Peter 3:4)

Monday, November 15, 2010

Release Song - Brittany Ketter

Release - Brittany Ketter
November 2010

Verse 1:
Day after day
trying to hide
holding the hurt
deep down inside

Outside a stone
But drowning within
She wants to find healing
But doesn't know where to begin.

Pre-Chorus: Her heart is drowning in an ocean of tears unshed, 
leaving her to be swallowed by the sorrowful depths. 

Chorus:
Release the river
cast off the stone.
There is a healing 
when you let it all flow.
Let go of the pain
don't let it drown you within.
Find your freedom in learning to live
And release...release the pain.

Verse 2:

Don't know the way
how to get by?
She doesn't know that
crying isn't a crime.

Feeling alone
but doesn't want to forget
the one in her life
that was taken away.

Pre-Chorus 2: She doesn't know there is release in the tears.
And that when they come falling that I will be there.

Chorus

Bridge: 
Come my dear child
don't hold back the pain
let it all out and 
release it again.

Then stay at my side 
look beyond the sorrow,
You will see hope when I show you tomorrow.

Chorus1

Chorus2: 
You released the river
and cast off the stone.
You found there is healing 
in letting it flow.
You let go of the pain
you're not drowning within.
You found your freedom is 
learning to live...

Release the river
let my comfort flow through
I'll give you a peace beyond
what you ever knew
Hold tight to me
I'll carry you through
And I'll bring you home with me
when you finish what you're called to. 

Fading out with music:
My timing is perfect, though it might seem too soon,
I had greater plans beyond what you knew
Release....oh....release it all...


~~~~
Still needs a bit of work, but thats the frame for it! :)

~Brittany (1 Peter 3:4)

November 2010 Pure Freedom Update.mov


Dannah Gresh - Founder of Pure Freedom and Secret Keeper Girl shares a message! Please watch this 2 minute video! :)

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Beautiful For Me - Nichole Nordeman




BEAUTIFUL FOR ME Lyrics
Nichole Nordeman
Every girl young and old has to face her own reflection
Twirl around, stare it down
What’s the mirror gonna say
With some luck, you’ll measure up
But you might not hold a candle to the rest
“Is that your best?” says the mirror to the mess
But there’s a whisper in the noise
Can you hear a little voice
and he says

Has anybody told you you’re beautiful?
You might agree if you could see what I see
Oh
‘Cuz everything about you is incredible
You should have seen me smile the day that I made you beautiful for me
If it’s true beauty lies in the eye of the beholder
What my life and what’s inside to give him something to behold
I want a heart that’s captivating
I wanna hear my Father say

Has anybody told you you’re beautiful?
You might agree if you could see what I see
Oh
‘Cuz everything about you is incredible
You should have seen me smile the day that I made you beautiful for me
Close your eyes
Look inside
Let me see the you that you’ve been trying to hide
Long ago, I made you so very beautiful
So I ought to know you’re beautiful

Has anybody told you you’re beautiful?
You might agree if you could see what I see
Yeah
‘Cuz everything about you is incredible
You should have seen me smile the day that I made you beautiful
You’re so beautiful
Beautiful for me
So beautiful for me
Has anybody told you?

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

A Rare Beauty

Today is one of those rare days where I did everything right.
            -My hair went the way I wanted it to go.
            -My makeup went on nicely in a fun way I decided to wear it today. (Bonus   
Points as it covered up my blemishes and spots on my face.)
-I wore the right outfit that is both modest and complements my looks and   personality.

This is a rare day where everything I wanted to go right with my appearance did. But when it came down to it, I remembered my verse I sign next to my name, 1 Peter 3:3-4:

“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”

I am quite happy with my appearance today; but at the end of the day when I’m sitting in my big comfy chair in my sweats and an over-sized T-shirt with my hair in a messy ponytail on top of my head and my makeup washed off, I want to be beautiful. I’m not talking about the outer beauty that is here today, gone tomorrow, and ever-changing by the world’s standards. I am talking about the beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit – a young woman who is humble, loving and compassionate to others. And whose outer character is a reflection of her inner character. I want my beauty to be genuine, and a reflection of who I really am.

In our world, people constantly are saying how you have to look and dress and act. They are constantly pressuring us to conform to what they say is beautiful. Tell me, who are they to say what is beautiful? Who are they to say what is worth more? God’s creation is beautiful, and He doesn’t make mistakes. When you start thinking along the lines of what the world says about beauty and putting your appearance down, you are saying that God did a bad job. That is a lie. God knit you together in your mother’s womb ever so perfectly. From your eye color, to your hair color to your personality, your genes, God purposely created you this way, and you know what? He is enthralled by your beauty. (Psalm 45:11) [Emphasis mine].

Do not believe the lie that your worth is based on your looks. But know the truth that when you realize just how beautiful you are and see who you are in Christ - that is true beauty.

What is the kind of beauty you want to exhibit in your life?              

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

My Cause Today




Every day in the United States of America over 4,000 American
citizens are silenced against their wills. They have their voices
permanently silenced and they never get the opportunity to speak on behalf
of themselves. Today we stand in silent solidarity with those who have been
silenced. Today we are silent, but by doing this we are being a voice for the
one-third of our generation that will never have a voice. These victims are
not only being silenced; they are being killed. The victims we stand on
behalf of are not going to be mentioned on the news. The victims we stand
on behalf of will not have a funeral. The victims we stand on behalf of were
ripped from the safety and warmth of their mothers’ wombs. The victims we
stand on behalf of were not blobs of tissue, but beautiful human persons,
with hearts that beat, brains that gave out brain waves, and a soul. These
are the victims of the abortion holocaust. Every day over 4,000 babies
have their lives ended in the name of choice. Since January 22, 1973, over
46 million babies have died. The time is now to stand on behalf of
these innocent victims. Visit www.standtrue.com to find out
how to be a voice.






Psalm 139:13-16
13 For you created my inmost being;
       you knit me together in my mother's womb.
 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
       your works are wonderful,
       I know that full well.
 15 My frame was not hidden from you
       when I was made in the secret place.
       When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
 16 your eyes saw my unformed body.
       All the days ordained for me
       were written in your book
       before one of them came to be.

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

A Month Without You....

They say that time is healing
when it comes to dealing with loss.
But I still miss her as much as day one.

I've heard that just because death comes,
doesn't mean you stop living.
But the world is so much different without Nana in it.

But I'm still here trying to get through,
Living with a love that she constantly proved.

I guess I'm afraid to find that life goes on.
Because it just doesn't seem right to with her gone.

I'm going to start living and she would be proud,
cause I'm gonna live with the love that she was all about.

I have mourned my loss and rejoiced in her gain.
I'm always going to miss her,
and some days there will be pain.

But I have to keep living even if it doesn't always seem right
and I'll keep her alive in my memory as I go through life.

Today I will start living again, and of my day she will always be a part.
because I'll keep every memory of her close to my heart.

She is in a better place now
where there is no more sadness and pain.
So although I may mourn my loss,
I will live life celebrating in her gain.

It's only been a month without her,
but seems just like yesterday
that God took Nana away.

This time apart, it breaks my heart,
but I can't wait to see her again someday. <3

~~~~~~~~~~

In Memory of Joan M. Plocki
October 18, 1947 - July 31, 2010

Saturday, August 7, 2010

A time for everything....

"For everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven....a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn, and a time to dance....He has made everything beautiful in its time." Ecclesiastes 3: 1,4,11

August 2-7 I spent in Detroit for National Fine Arts with Emily, Erica, Rikki, Casey, Eden, Lydia, Jess, Miss Connie, Mrs. Marshall and Pastor Katie. (whew! Hope I didn't forget anyone! That's a lot of people...hrm...didn't seem like it when we were together...) The week itself was amazing, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. i learned so much through that week and God met me in amazing ways!

Having just lost my Nana as she passed away on Saturday afternoon, I questioned if I could even take the trip. By Sunday t was debating on whether or not I SHOULD go. I really felt that I needed to be with my family and also that I should be helping with arrangements. All in all I needed time. But after praying about it, I felt a peace to go. As much as I wanted to stay, I decided to go for three main reasons.

3) I didn't want to let my team down.

2) One of my last conversations i had with Nana was after she watched my dance, and she was so proud that i was going to Detroit for it! She would have wanted me to go. So I decided to go and give God my best in honor of Nana.

1) Ultimately God brought me there for a purpose. And even looking back on the week, I'm not sure that I even see that purpose in it's entirety. God maybe will reveal it to me in the future. But a few things I learned there were definitely reasons God brought me there.

~I have the most amazing friends and church family EVER! No comparison! They can't be beat!

~ There is a time for everything.

~When life is crumbling around you, you got to keep living.

~God orchestrates everything most beautifully! Even if you don't think so at the time, looking back, and seeing how God was in the situation is the most amazing thing!

"He makes everything beautiful in its time..." Ecclesiastes 3:11

A breakdown of the week looks something like this:

Monday, August 2

We drove up to Detroit and had first service. PressPlay led worship followed by an inspiriting message from Robert Madu! This guy was amazing!!! he spoke on Spiritual gifts and using them as well as how to find what your spiritual gifts are. He went even deeper to the dirt of it all! (literally!) His theme being "Jesus <3 my dirt!"

Quote of the night I think had to be "The next time you start thinking that you're all that and a can of pringles...remind yourself...YOU'RE DIRT!"

There was so much more to His message! It was so awesome!

Tuesday, August 3

For the first time, we had ALL events (minus the large vocal ensemble) in one day! It rocked! So we spent the day at the COBO center running from one event to another! I loved seeing everyone using their gifts! I never cease to be blown away by how great they are!

Rikki's short sermon was a knock-out! This girl was born to preach! i see her teaching to thousands! She was just amazing! (And she got SUPERIOR for her short sermon!)

Emily's sermon rocked! She was amazing! I've heard her sermon many times, but it never hit me so hard as this time! Especially on her points with seizing our divine moments and having a willing spirit! (She received excellent on her sermon!)

Em and Jess's duet I missed the first time, but I know they were awesome because 1) They always are and 2) They got a call back and are in the top 16 in the nation!!!! I did get to see their call back, and the anointing of God was just so clear over them! (They also had Superior)

My Worship Dance Solo to "East to West" was...interesting. Really It just felt so great to dance again and share my gift. Just making it there was amazing enough! I'm so blessed to have been there!

Send Judah First - was the most fun I had in my events all week! We weren't perfect, and we had a few mishaps (whoops) but I think that's where we all really got it together...we had fun and were worshiping in dance. I'm so blessed we had the opportunity to dance there! It was amazing! (LOVE YOU GIRLS!) We got Excellent in Worship dance troupe! :)

Emily's Solo brought half of us to tears! her voice is amazing! I loved the song and the message in it! And even more listening to her sing and watching how she connected with the song. This girl got a gift, and she knows how to use it! Emily received a "Superior" ranking in this category.

Jess's solo was awesome! That song is still going through my head! It was pure worship and just...wow! She blows me away every time! I love listening to her sing and play guitar and just watching her worship! She got "excellent" with her solo!

Tuesday night we had a rockin' speaker! She was really good! Julie gave her testimony and taught quite a bit! Loved her! PressPlay led worship again and just all in all - awesome service!

Wednesday, August 4

Hearts Ablaze sang "Still My God". Wow! you should have heard! it was perfection! I love listening to them! They got "excellent!"

After, we took the monorail to Greektown and ate dinner there before heading back to the Joe Louis Arena for The After's Concert! I LOVED them! (but of course before that we had to put up with the trauma of Troma...that was musical torture!) Oh but we also had Michael Jr. That night too! Loved him!

Thursday, August 5

Jess and Em's call back rocked! After, we went back to Greektown for some Mexican!!! And then we went to the GM building to see out the glass elevators to see the city...but that didn't happen...so we just rode th elevator to the 70th floor for the fun of it! :D Waiting for the monorail and in the COBO lobby we were all jamming. Skipped Troma and service and went back to the hotel where the girls were jammin' with the Sherman Mtn Boys! They were awesome! They won nationals last year, and won in 2 categories this year! That's amazing!

Friday, August 6

We had the whole day to chill! Most of it was spent poolside with the Sherman Mountain Boys! Then pizza before the Fine Arts Celebration service! And back to the hotel to jam some more. All in all, amazing week with the girls! (and guys)

Saturday, August 7

Sad to leave Detroit. mostly because this was it! Final year of Fine Arts for me! But it was amazing all the same! In spite of my circumstances, I had a blast with my friends and they really helped me through a lot.

The last four years in Fine Arts have been an amazing time for me and a time of growing. I'm so blessed to have been part of this and involved with my most amazing friends!

This week i also saw something I didn't see as clearly before I guess because I didn't look. But what I saw was how much Miss Connie, Pastor Katie and Mrs. Marshall just pour into us all. And it really got me thinking watching that. All the time and effort that they put into us...just...wow....There is no doubt how much they care and the love of God just comes through! Seeing that really hit me. So, thank you for all the time and effort that you pour into us all. It's not wasted and you are all such a blessing! Praying for you all as you continue to minister!

As for you girls, it's been awesome! I'm really going to miss you! but you've made these last few years just awesome! I love you all! keep using your gifts for the Lord. it brings me such joy to watch you use them for His glory. You all hold a special place in my heart, and I can't wait to see where God will take you in the future. Love you so much! Thanks for all the memories! I will never forget any of this! You have all been awesome!!

To Emily - Keep it up with that voice! Song or sermon, your heart is seen so clearly in it all! you got power girl! I can't wait to see how God will use you!

To Rikki - You have such an anointing on you for speaking! And you really rock it! I know God is going to use you in awesome ways to further His Kingdom! Rock on girl!

To Erica H - Keep dreaming, cause your dreams will take you somewhere. God has gifted you in so many ways! I love watching you use those gifts! God will do great things with you! never stop runnning! He has the best plans!

To Jess - I've been so blessed by your song and musical gifts as well as your dance and your heart. i love your passion and joy! Keep on moving in the Lord and using your gifts. I know it will lift many eyes to heaven and many hearts to Jesus!

To Eden - I don't know what to say, but....KABOOM!! (of course you're the only one that will get that....) You never cease to surprise me! You're always unpredictable! I love the quiet strength that you have about you, and I love it when you sing! You got a voice! (When you have a voice that is....lol) Don't ever think otherwise! I know that God has gifted you in amazing ways! And you're awesome with communication! Keep pressing on! I'm so proud of who you are and who you are becoming!

To Casey - Wow, where has the time gone? I love your ability to make everyone laugh! All around you're great to be with, and I love your heart and seeing how you care for people. God has awesome plans to use you, and I know he has very special gifts placed in you. (more than just the gift of looking good! :D ) Keep going after Him! :)

To Lydia - It seems you've gotten so old! I can't wait to see how God uses you! You write amazing songs and have an awesome voice! And are so musically gifted! Never give up on your music and keep serving God with these awesome gifts He has given you! You rock!

To Miss Connie - Thanks for the last four years! They have been amazing! And thank you for willingly and whole heartedly pouring into us! I hope we make you proud and I pray that God blesses you in all that you do! You've been awesome!

To Pastor Katie - Thank you for all the time and effort that you have invested into us all. I can promise that your investment is not in vain, but will produce much fruit. You're awesome! Praying for you as you continue in God's perfect will! Love ya!

To Mrs. Marshall - Thank you for the support over the years and for all you do and the ways that your pour into u. Praying that God continues to bless you in all that you do!

I love you all!

Thanks for making the last few years so awesome! Prayers and Blessings to you! <3 You're the greatest!

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

NYC Missions

When I went to New York, I went expecting to minister and to change lives for Jesus. what I never knew was how much it would minister to me and change my life.

The first night we had orientation and then went to Times Square and got a nice look at the city. The next day, Thursday, we did a VBS for a group of about 20 kids. They were just awesome! This was the best VBS in my opinion. We got there, not knowing how many kids we'd have or what we would be doing. We didn't know if we'd be running everything or just helping out, but it was awesome seeing just how God brought it all together!

Another thing I thought was really cool was the woman who runs the daycare, Mrs. Miller told us how the night before two of her helpers called and told her that they couldn't make it the next day. So she would be alone with all of these kids with no help. So she was praying and as soon as she got up off her knees, NYSUM called her and told her we were coming! So it was a real blessing to her that we were there that day, and the kids were such a blessing to us!

We did some praise and worship songs, puppets, crafts, face painting and played outside. Daniel decided that he would give one of the kids piggy-back rides....and so then **all** the kids wanted piggy-back rides. Some of us had multiple kids on our backs at once! But it was awesome! We had a blast! The kids were amazing and blessed us all. They were so open to us and so hungry for love, that it really touched me.

NYC Trip Day 1

One of the kids, Xavier really got attached to my brother, Aaron. He was adorable! It was so sad that he cried when we left! Another girl, Brianna, was my little buddy that day. But the others were amazing too! WE did a dance competition and wow! Those kids could dance! Some of them were five or six years old and were flipping all over the place and spinning on their heads! They were awesome!

I was so sad we weren't going back to see them again! that first day I think got me the most. I was so blessed by those kids!

That night we did homeless ministry. We were in New York City and were passing out care packages, water and sandwiches to the homeless people. We got to talk to a lot of them, and that was really awesome! Many of them were so happy just to have someone to talk to! I loved to sit and listen to their story, and while listening, it really opened my eyes to the fact that these people out on the streets actually have family and friends and lives. And it was not their choice to be homeless. Something happened that forced them out on the streets. It could happen to anyone. Some of the people we met up with didn't really want to talk much. I loved being able to minister to their needs, not only physical but to their spiritual needs as well. We had the privilege of praying with several of them. And one of them, who has been on the street for 12 years actually ended up ministering to us! He had his Bible out and was reading verses and wow, that whole ministry just really blessed me!

I also met up with a man who had been on the streets for 7 years. WE talked for about an hour. He claims to be a Christian, but said he wasn't sure yet of everything he believed. Miss Sheri, Eden, Emily, Daniel and Alexsey met up with some interesting people too. All of them had a story, and some of them let us pray with them. I admit it took a few steps out of my comfort zone, but it was so worth it! God did some amazing things through that! That is something I'd love to be involved in more often!

On Friday we went to Terence Cardinal Cooke Chapel - a long-term care facility with over 700 patients. Most of the people there have Huntingtons disease where they slowly lose control over their body. We did the protestant service there for some of the patients who were there. Emily, Eden and Casey led worship and Erica and Sarah did sermons. It was really cool during worship because the people there didn't know all the words to some of the songs, but they tried to sing them anyways. And then the songs they did know they sang with us! It was just awesome! Afterwards we helped the patients back to the elevators to go to their rooms.

To end the day, we went to Coney Island Gospel Assembly for a VBS. Almost all of us were dressed like clowns!

NYC Trip Day 2

We did water balloons, face paint, puppet ministry and worship songs! It was a great time with the kids!

NYC Trip day 2

Afterwards we went to see the fireworks and then headed back to NYSUM. :)

Saturday began with street ministry at Tomkins Square Park. Emily played her guitar and everyone sang. We also got to go around the park and minister to the homeless people there. It was really great to be there! There were a few people there so happy that we were there and playing worship songs. They told us that we were a blessing to them, and that alone blessed us! Just knowing that you blessed somebody really has a way of getting to you! God is so good!

To end Saturday, we visted a Metro Family home that was made up of mainly DV Victims. We got there and had almost no idea what we were doing. We did the clowns again and Daniel, Sarah and Eden went door to door looking for kids there to come down to the VBS. The kids loved it! We did the puppet ministry again, gave out stickers, and did crafts, making necklaces, and another dance-off, worship music! It was all great! Sad to leave so soon! We spent about 2-3 hours with them. :) The kids there loved it!

After ministry time, we had a bit of free time. We went on a cruise and saw the statue of Liberty, and did some sight seeing! It was pretty sweet.

NYC Trip Day 3

Afterwards we went to Times Square and did some shopping...and went to the M&M's store! :D


NYC Trip Day 3

all in all, that was a great night! Thank you Pastor Seth, Pastor Katie and Miss Sheri!! :)

Sunday we went to Times Square Church and then we were off to go back home.

Ultimately, I was blessed through all the ministry done. Everyone was so grateful and appreciative that we came and a lot of them were just awesome! I can not wait to do this again! God is so good!

NYC Trip Day 1

I am certain that God brought us there...this was my favorite pic taken here above! :) LOL.But it about shows what the week was like. Something that we had to keep in mind was that God has us there for a reason. We have a purpose to be there. We may not have a second chance. We were given this opportunity and with it, I constantly reminded myself that having the privilege of being there, meant giving everything I had. No holding back. But going out boldly to do the work that God had set out for us. I think DIESEL did an amazing job of that. Proud to have spent my week serving with you all! You are amazing and I cannot wait to see how else the Lord will use you!

Love you!!

NYC Trip Day 4

Our totally awesome NYC Missions team! :)



Miss Sheri made a rockin video to sum up our trip...click here to see!

Sunday, July 4, 2010

Between the Dreaming and the Coming True...

Sometimes the hardest place to be is between the dreaming and the coming true. Where you have seen the dream and are going after it, only carrying it with you in your heart as you have not yet reached it. This dream is not yours yet.

Between the dreaming and the coming true is work and obstacles and trials that strengthen us. We don't so much make the dream as the dream makes us. It pushes us to pursue, and if we truly want it, we will go to great measures to gain it.

Right now, one of my dreams I'm carrying is to have a book published but between the dream and the coming true is a lot of work writing, and obstacles that include but are not limited to agents, publishers, time, relations and such. When I first saw this dream,, it seemed so easy, but now standing between my dream and it's reality, I realize just how hard it can be in this place.

Sadly, not everyone reaches the reality of the dream. i see it as God give you a dream to store away and carry and to nurture, but before it can be fully grown, you have to make it to the promised land where it can be planted. The dream needs to take root in your heart so you can make it through the rough season - or through the desert you must pass through to reach the place where your dream will flourish.

Don't lose heart, and don't leave your dream behind in the desert. Doing that can leave you wandering for years. God has a dream placed in each of us. One that we need to take hold of and allow it to take root in our lives. And ultimately, we need to follow where He leads us, even through the deserts to reach the place where the dream will flourish.

But, easier said than done. The dream at first has us excited and on fire, how long does that last in the desert?

But I tell you, keep heart and don't lose faith when you are between the dreaming and the coming true because God is greater, and keep looking to Him and you will find rivers in the desert you're walking through.

Ultimately God is faithful. he has entrusted to you this seed, this dream...let Him bring you to a place where it will grow and spread and where it will thrive and prosper.

Consider a pearl and all the time it takes to be cultured. But in the end it becomes a priceless piece of beauty. The culturing of a pearl is much like standing between your dream and it's reality. It's hard, but it shapes you, and changes you. It makes you into a thing of beauty.

With every dream that God places in our lives, He has a purpose in mind and a person that He wants us to be when we reach it. God equips the called to do His work. this is God's purpose and vision for you....when it seems like you're stuck in the desert, remember that he's preparing you for the dream to come true. And being always faithful, your dream will not die unless it is you who leaves it in the desert as you wander. Looking to God, He will always be more than enough, even when you can't see. We walk by faith, not by sight.

What is your dream?

Where are you on this journey?

Has your dream taken root?

Are you setting out toward the promised land where you will flourish and thrive,

or

Are you wandering through the desert now? Are you worn and weary. Has your journey been long?

or have you reached the place and seen your dreams and the fruit that has come from them?

Is your dream taking root? Go deep.

If your in the desert, have faith and rivers will flow.

If you've thrown your dream in the desert sand. Go and pick it up again. You can still make it. Have faith.

If you've reached the place and have seen the dream flourish - well done. Continue in your dream.

To everyone who is between the dreaming and the coming true:

Be strong. Stay focused. Have faith. Never give up hope. Keep your dream rooted deep down , and trust God to bring you through to where he has a purpose to plant you.

Learn and enjoy the journey. Let it make you. And God through your trials, mold you for the dream he has placed within your heart.

Blessings always,

Brittany L. Ketter (1 Peter 3:4)

Monday, June 21, 2010

Find Your Wings and Live Like You're Loved

"I pray that God will fill your heart with dreams. And that faith gives you the courage to dare to do great things. I'm here for you whatever this life brings. So let my love give you roots, and help you find your wings." - "Find Your Wings" - Mark Harris

Upon graduating high school, I've taken a look back at the way I have come the last 4 years. My journey has been one that has shaped much of my life, but even more so, the people that I have come to know through those years have been an influential part of who I have come to be. I think it is safe to say I wouldn't be where I am or who I am without them in my life. Looking back, I see how God had a plan and a reason for each person that stepped in my life. When as well as how long they stayed or if they're still there were all part of God's plan.

Sometimes people are only meant to be in our lives for a season, sometimes longer. But no matter how long they are there, they have a reason to be there. God placed them in your life for a reason, whether it be you help them, they help you, or you help each other. And when they leave, they almost always leave a mark, a reminder of what they did in your life. No matter where we go in life, how close or how far apart we become, we always carry a bit of each other everywhere.

It is those people that came into my life that slowly helped to bring me about. It is those people that came in my life at certain seasons and were always there, always praying, and who invested into me and encouraged me to keep going that made such a difference in my life. And because of their love and encouragement, I am finding my wings. I'm getting ready to fly. Those people were such an influential part of my life and ultimately directed me to seek God in everything.

Under their encouragement and guidance I really began to seek God. And little by little, my dreams of what I would be in the future changed. Slowly what I once dreamed of began to seem empty and meaningless, and God's dreams for me, became my dreams. At first they seemed unreachable. But on more than one occasion, God has proven that He is faithful and that He will bring me through what He has called me to. I just have to listen and obey His voice. All in all my heart is fully driven to achieve the dreams that God has laid in my heart...

"May passion be the wind that leads you through your days, and may conviction keep you strong and guide you on your way. May there be many moments that make your life so sweet. Oh, but more than memories..."

It's my faith that keeps me going after these dreams placed in me. And my faith is the reason that I am still standing. I'll be honest, sometimes it can be easy to forget how good God is, and all that He has done. (Which happens when you give into circumstances and take your eyes off Him). But sometimes I like to look back, because it's the memories of where He brought me from that keep me moving forward. There are times I would love to go back to how things used to be. But that season is over. It was a time of growth, and now it's time to move on. God had me placed there for just long enough, but now a new season has come and looking back, I have far more than just memories from the last season. I have much more that I carry from that time in my heart. And what I carry from that is much of what keeps me pushing forward...

"Visions that can change the world trapped inside an ordinary girl
She looks just like me too afraid to dream out loud
And though it’s simple your idea, it won’t make sense to everybody
You need courage now If you're gonna persevere

To fulfill divine purpose, you gotta answer when you're called
So don't be afraid to face the world against all odds


CHORUS
Keep the dream alive don't let it die
If something deep inside keeps inspiring you to try, don't stop
And never give up, don't ever give up on you
Don't give up

Every victory comes in time, work today to change tomorrow
It gets easier, who’s to say that you can’t fly
Every step you take you get, closer to your destination
You can feel it now, don’t you know you're almost there?

To fulfill divine purpose, you gotta answer when you're called
So don't be afraid to face the world against all odds."


-Never Give Up - Yolanda Adams

God has given me a vision that I choose to go after with everything in me. It hasn't been an easy journey, and it is not going to be. But It is what He has called me to. It's my destiny, and I'm going to be sure that I am the one who will fulfill it and that He won't have to send another to take my place. Obedience is key. I will not run from the way that God has planned for me. I'm just me. And although it might not always be in the worlds eyes, "just me" is enough for God. But he has to take ALL of me. Not just a part of me. And because I'm giving Him my all, I know that my life is in His hands. And thus, I go after what he has called me to. And I know that He will bring me through. I will have the Victory in Jesus. It will come one day....I heard once that "We are called to be today, what we will be when Christ comes." So I press forward. I want to fulfill the dreams that God has placed in me.


"Go make the best of everything you want to be
With ambition pushing forward
Your dreams upon your shoulders"
-"We've Only Just Begun" Run Kid Run

I'm running. I've just hit a milestone. Each day is bringing me just a bit closer. A good friend told me that "We have to be who God called us to be." Those ten words changed my life. With that reminder I continue. Another friend told me to "Call on the promise..." which through that I learned to call on the promiser. These four years, I could never summarize well. It would make a novel just to begin. (Thus this is my terrible summary). There is much written between the lines, and even more written across my heart.

All in all, what I've learned these last four years, I pray that you don't need to see what I write to know what I have brought with me. Because what I have learned, I pray that you see it daily in my life. That you will see how I've learned to love, and how I've learned to give, to sacrifice, to live all for God and to seek and find. I pray that you see daily how my struggles have made me strong, and that God in me who brings me through those trials makes me even stronger. I pray that when the time comes, you will see me fly and as I do, that you will see these last four years through my eyes.


"Live like your loved by the Lord up above. Spread out your wings and never give up. Cause you can do anything, be who you're meant to be. Always remember to dream. Keep your head up, and live like you're loved." - Live Like You're Loved by Mark Schultz.


To all who were with me -- Thanks for coming on this journey. Your influence in my life changed me and made me who I am today. Above all, thank you, Jesus for being my rock, my fortress, my deliverer, my savior, friend, help, my light, my strength, my God. Thank you for bringing me here. My life is all yours. Take me as I am and mold me to your dreams for me. I love you, Lord! <3

Dancing in the shadow of His cross,

Brittany (1 Peter 3:4)

Thursday, May 13, 2010

Kidney Transplant



Hey everyone! This is a really good friend of mine. She was one of my youth leaders at church and is simply amazing! God isn't done with her yet! So, please keep her in your prayers and donate if you can. I really appreciate it! Thank you all so much! <3

Here is the link for her story and for more information:

http://www.transplants.org/donate/madeeleombruno

God bless,

Brittany (1 Peter 3:4)

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Ready, Salt....Answer!

“In your hearts, set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” 1 Peter 3:15 [emphasis added]

It was a typical day for me. I did school, ran some errands, and then began to get ready for work. The sounds of spring were in the air and the weather was warmer than it had been in weeks. I put my window down a bit as I drove breathing in the warm fresh air. There was feet of snow on the side of the road just beginning to melt, but I still enjoyed the scenery that clearly showed that winter was fading and spring was finally coming. More than ever, I was ready for spring. It had been a long winter that included a record-breaking snowfall and freezing temperatures. Spring was more than welcome to be on it’s way.

Upon pulling into work, I said a prayer for God to use me and that he would shine through me and that he would be seen in me. Just like my typical day, I did my typical work. Notices, processing, shelving, repairing, working at the desk - nothing abnormal for me at all. But then something that was a bit different did happen. I was sporting my Southeastern University shirt which has printed into the design, “Be Salt.” As I was checking out a patron, he noticed my shirt asked me what “be salt” meant.

So many thoughts when through my head at that moment, the foremost being that this was a chance I had been praying for. But then, I realized, how could I explain “be salt” to a non-Christian? This stumped me for a moment and I slowly explained what it meant to me and how in the Bible in Matthew 5 it says that,

“You are the salt of the earth. If the salt loses it’s flavor, how then can it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. You are the light of the world, a city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do you light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men that they will see your good works and praise your father in heaven.”

I went on to say how salt cleanses, and although it irritates the wound at first, it ultimately benefits you greatly in the end. Salt is pure. We are told to be salt and light in the world.

I grimaced inwardly at my poor explanation. The man looked at me trying to understand what I had said. He made a short reply about that being cool, and then took his books and left. As he walked out those doors I realized something, that I had lost a real chance to be salt and to be a light. And why? Because I wasn’t ready. I was not ready to give an answer.

After that day, I set out to ready myself and to arm myself with answers that I can give to anyone who asks. I came upon 2 Timothy 4 which says, “Preach the Word; be ready in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage - with great patience and careful instruction.”

We all need to be ready. Whether it is our time to go out or our time for staying where we are. We need to be ready to give an answer. We need to be prepared. How can you prepare yourself today? Are you ready?

~Brittany

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Faith that moves...

"I've seen dreams the move the mountains, hope that doesn't ever end even when the sky is falling. And I've seen miracles just happen. Silent prayers get answered, broken hearts become brand new. That's what faith can do..." - That's What Faith Can Do by Kutless.

That's what Faith Can Do - that song portrays so much. My faith is important to me. I relate with this song so much. I want my faith to be like that. I want my dreams to move mountains, I want to always hope and believe, even when things seem like they will never come to be. I've seen miracles, I want to see God move again and again. I want to see those silent prayers answered, and broken hearts become new. I want everyone to see what Faith can do.

Faith is a powerful thing. In Hebrews 11:1 it says: "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for, and certain of what we do not see."

Nothing in this life is certain. Nothing in this life is constant. Nothing except for one thing - Jesus. Jesus is the same, yesterday, today and forever. He is the only constant, the only certainty. That is why faith is so powerful, because it is standing fully on what is unmovable and unchanging. Faith is powerful because it is standing on the solid rock when all else is shifting sand. The power of faith is in God. Everlasting, never changing, and eternally existent. What in this life is there that you can hold to? What stability is there in this world. I am certain and sure that the only answer is Jesus. When you have faith - you know and believe that no matter what comes to pass, that God will always keep you.

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28.

I know that no matter what happens, no matter what trials that come my way or what storms may come to pass that God will always be there and He will always see me through. I just have to trust him, believe in him, and have faith. My faith is my story. My relationship with Jesus Christ is the theme. And above all, God is writing my story. I know he has plans for me, and I can't wait to see what he will do through me. My life will be all to bring Him glory and it will be in his way and in His plans for me.

One of my favorite verses is in Jeremiah 29:11. It says, "For I know the plans I have for you' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you a future and a hope.'"

I don't know the plans that God has for me. There have been many times where I've gone to God not knowing which way to go or what decision to make and I'd pray, "Lord, would you please clue me in on your plans a little?" But it doesn't always work that way. I have to believe that when I trust God that He will help me make the right choice. I can't see the road a head of me. I am unsure of where I'm going in this life. But we are meant to walk by faith and not by sight.

I'm not your typical girl, but I am who God is making me to be. I'm shaped by his hands and as he shapes me, he is keeping the purpose that he has for me in mind. I had dreams of my own, but coming to God, my dreams changed. Admittedly part of me still wants those former dreams of mine, but God's dreams for me are so much better, and I know that it is in God's will that I'll be the happiest, and where my purpose will be fulfilled. I also know that the center of God's will is not a destination, it's a journey, and it is a journey that I will take all of my days.

I once dreamed of med-school and being a doctor. I had dreams of being able to help people and save lives that way. But it is so clear to me now that going into medicine is not where God wants me, even when there are still days that I want it. But no, God is calling me to minister. He is calling me to preach the gospel, bring freedom to the captives, and bring release to the prisoners. He has called me to comfort those who mourn, and to declare the year of the Lord's favor! (Isaiah 61:1-3)

Now I dream of ministry. I dream of ministering in a church, and to youth, teen girls and women. I dream of missions to Haiti and India. I dream of ministry with dance and with the arts. God has given me a heart for such things. And although I at times look back at my dream of being a doctor, I don't miss it, although I want it at times, I've recognized those times for what they are -- those times are pure selfishness in me. I wanted to be a doctor to help people yes, and to minister that way -- but also for my name to be known. With these new dreams God has given me, it is not about me, it is all about him. It is about how everything that I do and say glorify Him in every way. This life is my praise, my offering, my everything. God will speak through me, - He's promised me the words. God will go before me - He has already made my way. God will guide me - He is my light and my salvation. God will use me - He's had a purpose for me since before I was born.

You may by now be wondering who I am. I've said much and yet very little. I am servant of the Most High. I am a young woman of Faith. I am a daughter of the king of kings. I am a dreamer holding to God's dreams. I am a sinner redeemed by the blood that poured from Jesus as he hung on the cross, I am a warrior in the Lord's army (by the way we already win.). I am who God the Father calls me to be, but above all - I am His and my life is to bring him glory!

To God be the glory, honor and praise!

~Brittany (1 Peter 3:4)

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

DIESEL - This is our year! <3

"Preach the Word; be ready in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage - with great patience and careful instruction..." 2 Timothy 2:2

Diesel, This is our year.

I really believe that this season we have to prepare. This Spiritual battle is real.

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Ephesians 6:12

Are we ready? Do we fit into our armor?

"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests." Ephesians 6:13-16

We are leaders here. We can start a revolution. There is a war to be waged here. We have to fight. We have to stand. If you were called to go out now, tonight, would you be ready?

This is our year! What are we going to do with it -- or you know what -- What are we going to let God do with it? How are we going to let him work in our lives so we can do the impossible? Are we going to be open to him to let him move?

I believe this is our year. It is time we stand up and take our place on the battlefield. We Are DIESEL - fueled by the spirit---or are we? Consider this - What drives you? Are you fueled by the Spirit? Is it God that keeps you going with every breath left in you? Is it God that consumes your every thought and every motive? Is is the Spirit of God in you that fuels you?

We have so much power right in our hands that God has laid out for us to grasp. Are we ready to take it up? Do we believe? Do we know? Are we fueled by the Spirit??

You are called tonight. Are you ready to fight? Do you fit into YOUR armor? As an individual - are you ready for battle. If no one else were to stand with you tonight -- would you be able to stand your ground?

As a group - are we ready for battle? We could be so much - we have the potential. We cover each other's weaknesses. We are strong together. but if we aren't ready to fight, when will we be?

it is time for us to take up our armor. It is time for us to take a stand. This is our year, Diesel! This is our year to see the impossible. It is our year to move mountains. it is our year to lead - to start a revolution. Are you open to the supernatural? It's time to get out of the ordinary. We are extraordinary.

Do you believe in this year and what it has in store?

One last question,

Will you stand with me??

It is our time. This is our year.

"A cord of three strands is not easily broken." Ecclesiastes 4:12

-giving
-prayer
-fasting

Time for battle. Take up your armor. We're waging war! <3

We are DIESEL - FUELED BY THE SPIRIT!

Thursday, January 7, 2010

Who Measures Up?

I stood against the measuring stick as tall as I could and was disappointed to find that I was still too short. I came to this amusement park every year only to find that I was still too short to ride what I looked to be the best ride in the park, a roller coaster called the Wild Mouse. It was fast with sharp curves and dips and it slammed you around the whole ride. Does this sound like fun? Well it did when I was six. However, once again, I didn’t measure up to the requirements. The only requirement – “You must be this tall to ride.” Well I was not “this tall,” in fact, I came up quite short. And the “shortness factor” would get me a lot in life. I’m not just talking about height either. Back to the park, my older brother got to ride the Wild Mouse while I was watching. The next year, I was finally tall enough –barely that is. (I may have stood on my tippy toes just a bit.) After waiting in that line for what seemed like an eternity, I sat myself in the seat with my brother and waited with anticipation for what was to come. We started moving; up – up –up we went. The car stopped at the top for a few seconds, and I held my breath in anticipation, then all the sudden, we whipped around a tight left bend, and then another, followed by a tight right and a drop, only to go up again and twist sharply. I recall hitting my head of the side of the roller coaster car several times on those turns as I was too small to really stay in place. In spite of that fact, I loved it. I wanted to ride again. It did beat me up a little, but I finally “measured up” to the requirements.


This is how our world today is. We see others doing what we want nothing more than to do ourselves, but we come up too short. We don’t “measure up.” Society today is like that roller coaster. We want to be the ones riding it, but the bar has been raised too high for us to measure up to. We try to stand as high as we can as to look tall enough. The requirements are there because anything less cannot handle the ride. If we stand tall and just barely reach the mark to ride – we might get whipped around a bit. We may get beat up along the way. Will the ride be worth it? Are we riding because it’s where we are meant to be, or because we finally fit the requirement? Is finally making it what keeps us holding on for our dear lives?


“You must be this tall to ride” – These days to measure up, you have to be the best of the best. You have to have a better education, a better job, and even be better looking than the next guy. Not everyone is going to “measure-up” to the world’s standards. It seems they are continually raising the bar, and we just can’t seem to stand to it. We all have standards (or at least I would hope we do.) Some of us have our standards higher or lower than others. It’s the standard that defines what people expect of us. At times we can be overwhelmed by what is expected as what we have to bring is never enough to satisfy the requirement. What we have to bring is never enough for us to measure up to the expectations that are set before us. When we reach that, we just drown in a sea of what we may see as failure. We fail to reach the mark.


Since creation, we've been raising the bar, pushing to do more, to go farther, to reach higher than we ever have before. We’ve been reaching to make ourselves better, or to make a name for ourselves. In the Garden of Eden, Eve was deceived and tempted to eat of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. As Satan, in the form of a serpent told her, “…when you eat of it [the fruit of the tree] your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” Eve wanted to be, “like God.” “Ironically, in trying to be “like God,” humans separated themselves from God Almighty and became false gods to themselves.” (FIREBIBLE Student Edition, © 2007, p. 35)


The Tower of Babel is another example. In Genesis 11: 4 says this:
“Then they said, “Come, let us build for ourselves a city with a tower that reaches to the heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves and not be scattered over the face of the whole earth.” (emphasis added)


When we try to make a name for ourselves, we push the limits, we reach as high as we can manage, and when that isn’t enough we stand on our toes hoping that we will finally reach the standard. We can only do that for so long. We’re only made so strong.I find it ironic that what seems to be labeled as the "world's standard," is higher than the standards of the world. It seems that the world expects so much, but they expect it not of themselves, but of others.


Who really measures up? For how long will we continue to raise a bar that we can't stand to ourselves? Standards are good to have - high standards, but when too much is expected - when perfection is expected, who will stand to the bar? We can try and reach for it. Is it worth getting beat up along the way? Will we survive it?


I find that the "shortness factor" can get me quite a bit. I don't always "measure up" to other people. I can't sing like many people I know, I'm not the greatest with drama, and memorization. I'm not good with people all the time. I'm not the best at anything, but I'm good at many things. However, the gifts I've been given and the skills I have acquired still leave much to be desired at times. Sometimes I feel like I have an image to hold that I CAN do the requirement. That I CAN reach the standard, but really, I'm barely making it. I'm not steady. I'm on a roller coaster ride that continually beats on me with every twist and turn. Sometimes I wonder why I put myself in those places. At times, it is to stretch and to grow, at others it is because of what is expected of me, and still others, it is just waiting to be held to the bar so that I can finally step down, be satisfied that I've reached it and go back to where I measure to. Who really measures up?


I thank God continually that He takes me as I am. He made me to be who I am. He takes everything that I have to bring - failures, short comings and all - and he makes them perfect. His power works best in my weakness. (2 Corinthians _:_) In the end, it is not about whether I measure up to the world's standards, but do I measure up to God's standard? No. No one can. None of us are perfect. But he loves us.


Thank you, Jesus for taking me as I am, and loving me for who I have become. Thank you for shining through my weakness.


~Brittany

"Its a fear that keeps me wide awake,
in the middle of the night.
When the expectations are too great,
and the bar gets raised too high.

So I do the best with what I've got,
and hope that no one knows,
that I strain to see how high I can
try to stand on these toes
until I'm measured
but you know better so...

CHORUS:
Thank you Jesus,
even when you see us just as we are
fragil and frail and so far from
who we want to be so
thank you Jesus, even when the pieces
are broken and small
dreams shatter and scatter like the wind.
Thank you even then.

So I put aside the masquerade,
and admit that I am not okay.
Which may not be the thing to say,
but I'm not ashamed to need you,
more each day so

CHORUS

We raise the standard and try to reach it,
but we'll never make it and we don't need to...
so thank you....just as we are, we are fragil
and frail and so far from, who we want to be so...

CHORUS

"Even Then" - Nichole Nordeman