shonda's journal

Blogging Break

2011-06-20T13:12:00.004-05:00

To all my friends & blog followers,

I am taking a break from blogging over the remaining summer months. During this time I will be making some adjustments. I'll be spending time with family and friends and setting priorities for what the Lord has called me to do.

Please stay in touch with me on Facebook and Twitter. I do plan to keep the social networking active. Lord willing, I plan to start blogging again in a few months.

Many blessings to all of you!

Queen of Procratination

2011-06-06T09:20:00.004-05:00

"You will know that I am the Lord, O people of Israel, when I have honored my name by treating you mercifully in spite of your wickedness. I, the Sovereign Lord, have spoken!” ~~Ezekiel 20:44 NLT

I've reigned as Queen of Procrastination in my life for quite a number of years. I felt quite comfortable with my routine of waiting then rushing. I found the rush of adrenaline near the deadline quite satisfying at times.

Sometimes, though, it's not procrastination; it's the busyness of life getting in the way of doing what I'm supposed to be doing. Then there are those times that I must scramble to complete a task. But that's not what I'm talking about here.

What I'm sharing today are the things I know I should be doing, but am not doing. I traveled that journey way, way too long. I've given myself too many excuses--"it's my personality" or "I'm just made that way."

Enough!

The Lord showed me a specific plan in 2006 how he wanted me to eat. I started off with gusto, but then caved into temptations. However, over the years the list of excuses popped up and again I procrastinated but would eventually get back to the plan again. This cycle has repeated itself over and over for the past five years.

Why? Because it's hard. Honestly, I procrastinated because I felt what I had to do was too difficult and I rather not deal with it. After all (here's the excuse), God didn’t tell my husband and children what to eat. It didn’t seem fair.

Whenever I ate whatever I wanted to eat--complex carbohydrates (breads, pastas, tortillas, potatoes, cakes, ice cream, etc.) in the quantities I wanted to eat, my blood sugar levels and endocrine system were affected. I confess, it often turned me into this grouchy, mean woman my family didn’t enjoy being around. That's not God's plan for my life.

Yet, so often in so many areas of our lives, the hard choices are the right choices. And when I make right choices, I can start to see the reasons the Lord led me to make those choices. Over the past 30 days, I finally started eating the way the Lord showed me. I stopped making excuses as I've been around this mountain too many times.

For one month now, I've made a deliberate lifestyle change and I'm eating the way I know the Lord wants me to eat--one day at a time without excuses (even with a house full of family and guests over the Memorial Day weekend). As a result, I feel much more energetic. I no longer need over-the-counter sleep aids to go to sleep at night, coffee to wake up in the mornings, and my stress levels have decreased so I feel more joy in my life. My family has commented that I'm a much more pleasant person to be around.

I'm still at the beginning of this journey, but felt that 30 days is a milestone marker. I'm now starting my next 30 day journey, one day at a time. I'm able to take this path of submitting to God's will for my life because He has been merciful to me in spite of my disobedience through procrastination. I am very grateful for God's mercy.

I'm laying down my crown as I no longer want to reign as queen of procrastination. As I submit to God in this one area, other areas are coming to light where I'll no longer procrastinate.

What about you? Have you reigned as king or queen of procrastination in areas of your life? Is God asking you to lay down your crown for Him?

In Memory of the Fallen

2011-05-30T08:49:00.004-05:00

Today I'm pausing to thank those who serve and pray for the families who have loved ones who gave all for our freedom in America. May God bless you and comfort you.

". . .mourn with those who mourn" (Romans 12:15 NIV).

Actively Waiting

2011-05-23T00:39:00.000-05:00

But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint. ~~ Isaiah 40:31 NKJV

What do you do when you're waiting? Waiting for a doctor's appointment? Waiting in line at the car wash? Waiting for someone to answer the phone? Waiting for your spouse to come home?

We all wait at times in our life as it's a part of life. Most of us are active waiters--while waiting to see the dentist, we make sure our teeth are freshly brushed and flossed. How embarrassing it would be for the hygienist to dig out food from between our teeth. At the car wash, we ensure all the windows are all the way up. When we're expecting our spouse to come home, we'll clean up and have dinner prepared.

Another words, we're actively waiting. Believers in Christ are waiting for His return. Yes, the Bible is clear Jesus will come again. But we must wait for God's timing and no one can predict when that will be. However, in the meantime, we're to wait on Him--actively.

Why does the Lord tarry on the second coming of Christ? Because it is HIS will that no one perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16).

Why can't believers be gathered up as soon as we confess Christ as Lord? We must share Christ within our sphere of influence so others will believe. And strengthen and encourage people of the faith to press on in our Lord.

That's how we actively wait on the Lord. As we do, the Lord will renew our strength and courage to share His love with those around us. We will not grow weary or grow faint in spreading His love.

The Bible is clear that there will be many false prophets in the end times for no one knows the judgment day except the Father and it's not for us to predict. In spite of false prophesies, let's press on actively waiting and sharing God's love.

Never Quit on Hope

2011-05-12T14:53:00.000-05:00

We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. ~~Romans 5:3-5, NLT

Expecting my second son, I yearned to be a stay-at-home mother. I worked since I was sixteen years old, but something about becoming a mother changed my desire to work outside the home. The nurturing, cuddling, and long to be with my new baby consumed all my thoughts. I already missed out on staying home with my first child who already attended school. When the first child came along, I was serving my country in the active duty Air Force. Therefore, my attention was divided.

After the Air Force, my husband and I stacked up a pile of credit card debt as high as the desktop. We lived for the moment not understanding that eventually it would all crumble around us. Also, I searched for a home-based business to work so I could make money and stay home. From attempting several businesses and failing, the debt rose even higher.

At that point, we owed so much money that I could not quit my job. When I faced the reality of the money owed, my heart felt crushed. Every time I dropped my youngest off at daycare, he cried. And on the way to the car, I cried. The certainty of my consequences set in and I felt deep despair.

My sin had consequences. Living in debt had repercussions. In order to stop the cycle, we repented for frivolous spending and sought credit counseling. We agreed to stop charging and started paying on the debt. We chipped away at our obligation little by little. We chose to live on a lot less. Throughout this time, my youngest started school and I also missed being a stay-at-home mom during his baby years.

Through those years, I prayed to the Lord. I persevered in hope that I would someday be able to stay home with my boys. I read Scriptures that filled me with hope, such as the widow who kept knocking on the judge's door seeking justice. (Luke 18:1-8) She never quit on hope. The parable starts with, "One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up" (NLT). So I kept on asking and seeking the Lord, not giving up hope.

Finally after five years of perseverance and character development, the day came when our debts were paid in full. I resigned from my full-time job and became a stay-at-home mom. Finally overcoming my failure of money management, I learned to be more financially responsible. And I received my God-given desire to stay home with my boys.

Though I failed by racking up a mountain of debt, hope in our Lord never failed me. Though the times I couldn't stay home felt painful, I endured. Through the endurance, the Lord developed character and character developed hope, which did not disappoint me. I never quit on hope.

Against the Odds

2011-05-01T18:54:00.004-05:00

There was also Benaiah son of Jehoiada, a valiant warriorfrom Kabzeel. He did many heroic deeds, which included killing two championsof Moab. Another time, on a snowy day, he chased a lion down into a pit and killed it. Once, armed only with a club, he killed a great Egyptian warrior who was armed with a spear. Benaiah wrenched the spear from the Egyptian’s hand and killed him with it. Deeds like these made Benaiah as famous as the Three mightiest warriors. He was more honored than the other members of the Thirty, though he was not one of the Three. And David made him captain of his bodyguard. ~~2 Samuel 23:20-23 NLT

God's word amazes me. Especially those not-so-well-known messages tucked away in the middle of big stories. You know those one or two verses that some authors such as Bruce Wilerson wrote about in The Prayer of Jabez. Or the time in 2008 I read about Sheerah in First Chronicles 7 and posted about her here.

Yesterday, Pastor Monty Houston of Life Church El Paso, taught on the amazing feats of Benaiah. Ben-a-who you ask? I did too. I sat intently taking notes on this message from the key scripture above.

The story of Benaiah is tucked into Second Samuel 23 where Scriptures list the mighty warriors of King David. Most of us have read about or heard about King David. But how many of us take time to read about the details of the men who surrounded him. He strategically placed warriors around him called "mighty men." Among the list of those men is Benaiah, "a valiant warrior" who "did many heroic deeds."

Though Benaiah had many heroic deeds, only three are listed in Scriptures for us to know about. He took on two champions of Moab and killed them. He chased a lion into a pit and killed it. And with a club killed a warrior who had a spear. Those victories came against the odds.

Think about other times God showed us in His word that He brought the victories that defy the odds.

David versus Goliath
Gideon versus the armies of Midian
Queen Esther
Ruth and Naomi

Which ones can you think of to share?

Therefore, when we face trials and circumstances that seem to be against the odds, why should we fear. "If God is for us, who can ever be against us?" (Romans 8:31 NLT)

I confess this past week I allowed fear and doubt to creep into my life. I continued to pray, play praise music and even sang (when no one but God could hear), and worked at chasing that doubt and fear out of my life. Then when I least expected it, God showed me HIS will for me after I chased my doubts and fears away like Benaiah chased away the lion.

Sometimes I feel like the least likely to write and speak on the behalf of our Lord. However, HE called me so I MUST trust HE will equip me and lead me.

When the odds seems to be against us, we can kill off our doubts and fears with the word of God. Then God receives the glory.

Crucified

2011-04-18T09:35:00.004-05:00

Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. ~~Galatians 5:24 NIV

This Holy week, which coincides this year with Passover, thoughts turn to the Passion of Christ. Jesus, who was fully man but also fully God, laid aside his will to live for God's will to prevail.

After having a Passover meal with His disciples, also known as the Last Supper, Jesus went to the Mount of Olives to pray. He felt such anguish over what He knew was to come, He sweat drops of blood. Laying down His human desires to escape the adversity, he prayed, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42).

Jesus being completely human wanted to escape the agony He was about to face. The Lord sent an angel to strengthen Him, as it was not God's plan for Jesus to continue living in human form. At this moment in time, Jesus' human desires did not line up with His Father's desires. So Jesus prayed to seek God's will. You see--the lives of ALL people hung in the balance of this one choice.

How often are we faced with having to let go of our own desires? Sometimes we must give up something in our lives that is not God's plan for us or for others. We want to escape the torment and trials. Sometimes we must go through the trials because on the other side of those trials may hinge the lives of other people.

Christ died so all of us can live. For through Him comes everlasting life with the Father. When Jesus is our Savior, He lives through us. We touch lives for His sake. Sometimes the trials we face are not for ourselves, but to be a living testimony for others to see Jesus. We must let go of our passions that do not line up with God's plan. When in agony, we must pray, "Lord your will be done, not mine."

The Passion of Christ refers to the suffering Christ went through before His death. Most of us cannot even fathom what he faced for our sake. In return, those who belong to Christ must crucify our sinful passions. Yes, sometimes it's painful to let those things go, but when we crucify our desires, we will experience God's grace.

What desires have you crucified?

Beyond My Control

2011-04-11T09:46:00.003-05:00

Traina child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it. ~~ Proverbs 22:6 NIV

After recommitting my life to Christ little over 10 years ago, I wanted my family to be excited for Jesus like I was. I invested lots of my time in prayer and sharing what I learned with them.

Yet, what really happened is I often turned them off about being excited for Jesus because I used the words of the Bible to try and control them.

No one wants to be dominated and controlled by others. God does not control us and never usurps our free will. So I have not been very Christ-like with my own family.

I read this quote on Sherry Meneley's Facebook page:

Due to circumstances beyond my control, I will no longer be controlling any circumstances…I'm just sayin'

Years ago, I left the full-time work force to be a stay-at-home homeschooling mama. I wanted to spend time with my children and share the message of Gospel with them.

When my oldest graduated from high school and moved off to live life as an adult, my youngest went into public school in order to participate in the athletic programs.

I lost that personal connection of reading the Bible and praying with my boys--both together and individually. One because of the physical separation and the other because life got much busier. I no longer have full control over his schedule.

I rejoice in the fact that both my sons have asked Jesus to be Lord over their lives and both demonstrated their commitment by water baptism. For that I am thankful--so very thankful.

What I realize is I cannot control how they grow in the Lord. I just realized this past week when I saw the quote on uncontrollable circumstances that I have tried to control their spiritual growth and like an over-watered plant, they started wilting.

I must step back and stand on the promises of God. He promises that if I train them in the way they should go, they will not depart from it. Both of them know a lot of Scripture. Yet, their faith and belief must become their own.

I pray for them both. And with the one still at home, I found time to start reading a daily devotion book, Jesus Calling, to him each morning. Discussing it with him if he initiates the conversation and sometimes praying or just remaining silent.

I can pray, guide, love, and discipline, but I cannot make them choose to live for Jesus. Those are circumstances beyond my control.

Not So Perfect

2011-04-04T01:00:00.002-05:00

People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison. Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. ~~ James 4:7-9 NLT

God blessed me with the gift of speaking. And because of that, I love to talk. I can talk about anything and everything with anyone anywhere.

When I ask my husband, "Why don't you say something?" He will just smile and sweetly reply, "I haven't had a chance."

Yes, I should let others share their thoughts. But where I really get into trouble is when situations do not unfold as I think they should. Before committing my life to Christ, if I received bad service, I would become so vocal about it that I would be asked to leave. I was far from perfect in this area with my mouth.

However, as I started growing in the Lord and maturing, I learned better ways to handle less-than-perfect scenarios. I became much better, but still not so perfect in using my words.

Occasionally I experience a relapse of my old way. Unfortunately for Christians, we come under much stricter scrutiny by others. That happened to me a few months ago when I unconsciously reverted back to the methods I used to use when I felt I was treated unfairly.

The person I unleashed unkind words on sent me an email that read, "The vitriolic words spewing from your mouth in the acrimonious tone of voice left me speechless. . . Take your hate and irresponsibility and ENGRAFT THAT ON YOUR BLOG so they can see what kind of person you really are."

Those words tormented me for days. For that, I confessed my sin to God, who is faithful to forgive. And I admitted I was wrong and apologized to this person. I apologize again, now--publicly. Will you forgive me? I'm definitely not-so-perfect.

The Scripture tells us that the tongue is hard to tame. We praise God with it and then curse others who are made in His image. That's what happened to this far-from-perfect being.

What are we to do? The Scripture in James continues by explaining that true wisdom comes from God. I should have paused, and in this situation, taken time to seek God for wisdom and not have returned the call right away.

James 4:17-18 tells us, ". . .the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness" (NLT). If I had applied God's wisdom, I would have been gentle with my words.

In this hurtful situation, this not-so-perfect girl learned a lesson. I needed a little grace. God's grace is abundant , so let's share it to other not-so-perfect people.

Groaning

2011-03-14T07:58:00.007-05:00

"We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time." ~~ Romans 8:22 NIV

My heart aches when I watch the news of the devastation in Japan. I confess I turn into a news junkie to keep abreast of current events when natural disasters strike.

My heart goes out to the people affected. We never know when disasters will strike or if it will be us next time.

We only have a short amount of time on earth. James 4:14 states that our life is like a "vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away" (NKJV).

I think about the earth groaning in pains. Does the earth ache like our bodies ache as we grow older? Are natural disasters creation groaning?

Scriptures state that earth was subjected to bondage and waits to be delivered just as the children of God (Romans 8:20-22).

Human nature desires to be delivered from pain and suffering. While on earth we will experience pain; there's no escaping it. But there's only one way I know of to escape eternal suffering--Jesus Christ. He is the way, the truth and the life, everlasting life.

We can hope for what we do not see--the new heavens and earth where there is no more sorrow. But for now, while we still experience the groaning, we can pray, give, and help those in need.

Like a Child

2011-02-28T02:00:00.000-06:00

"'Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.' And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them. ~~Mark 10:15-16 NIV

Years have passed since my husband and I purchased new bedroom furniture. When I described the furniture which I discarded due to water damage to a friend, she told me "it was so '80's." With the old set, I could sit on the bed to put on my shoes.

We had grown accustomed to our bedroom furniture and felt that other priorities took our financial commitments. Bedroom furniture didn’t seem significant in the larger scheme of things--after all we're raising two boys.

But our priorities shifted back to our needs after our pipes busted and the water poured over our furniture. While furniture shopping, I noticed a difference in the mattresses--they're much thicker than the old standard nine inches. We ended up with a 15-inch mattress.

With the deep mattress on the pedestal, the bed is about counter height. My oldest son commented that I'll need a step-stool to climb into it. Not yet buddy! I'm not that old. It is nice to dump a load of clothes from the dryer on it and fold them without having to bend over.

Having this new bed brings back childhood memories. I know the beds were not this big way back in the. . .eehm. . . well, long time ago. But I recall having to climb up into bed back then, like I do now. I can't just sit and turn in on this bed; I must climb in like a little child.

The past few nights as I felt like I child, I imagined the Lord tucking me in and praying over me. It brought comfort to me as I released the fears of the pipes in the ceiling above my head busting while sleeping. I trust the Lord to watch over me like my earthly Daddy protected me.

Children trust their parents to take care of all their basic needs. Children wake up knowing they will be fed and have clean clothes to wear. They do not fret about how their day is going to go. They simply trust.

I think that's how God wants us to feel with Him--simply trust that He will meet all our needs like a child trusts his parents. The Lord showed me how I can trust Him even though I fretted after the damage occurred. I felt anxious about the finances and the insurance company. But in spite of my worries, God provided for it all.

Now each night as I climb into my new bed like a child, I say, "Thank You, Abba, Father!"

Dealing with Cancer

2011-02-22T06:53:00.004-06:00

My friend, Cynthia Siegfried, wrote a book that I believe is important to share with you.

This book can change your life. Whether you are facing cancer or some other crisis, Cancer Journey: A Caregiver’s View from the Passenger Seat shows you how one woman managed to replace fear and depression with peace and joy during her husband’s eight year battle with stage IV lung cancer.

Purchase one or more copies of Cynthia’s book from Amazon on February 22 and receive bonus gifts and discounts from many of today’s teachers and experts on health and well being. Your Amazon purchase on February 22 will also help the author become an Amazon Bestseller and provide hope and encouragement to the millions of people living with a life threatening disease.

How it Works:

On Feb 22 go to http://www.caregivercancerjourney.com/special.asp
On this page you can view the bonus gifts.
Click the Amazon link to place your order.
Type in your Amazon receipt #.
You will receive a reply email with coupon codes and access to free gifts.

Although you can purchase the book at any time you MUST order today -- Feb 22 to receive your coupon codes and bonus gifts.

Please share this link with anyone who might benefit. http://www.caregivercancerjourney.com/special.asp

P.S. Even if you don’t want the bonus gifts (unlikely), the book alone is well worth the price.

A Beautiful Mess

2011-02-21T10:35:00.006-06:00

On the very day Punxsutawny Phil predicted an early spring, our city experienced the lowest recorded temperatures in history. The temps dipped as low as two degrees with wind chills in the minus zeros.

This weather anomaly caused a chain reaction with the services of the utility companies. In order to keep the power supply, the electric company enacted rolling blackouts. The rolling blackouts caused thermostats in some people's homes to go out and they lost gas pressure. The demands for gas to supply warmth were so great that some residents lost gas service leaving them in the cold. The water company could not run the pumps without power and the water froze in large pipes.

Then a few days later the weather warmed up causing water pipes to bust all across the city. I experienced the same problem in my master bedroom.

What a mess! Water gushed through the ceiling fan like a waterfall. Sheetrock flung from the ceiling. The mattress, box springs, furniture, and carpet soaked up the water like a sponge.

When the pipes froze, I searched for the pipes to do all I could to warm them up and thaw them out to prevent the inevitable. But only having moved into this home two months prior, I'm still figuring things out. Well this mystery was solved sooner than I hoped.

As I stated before, we have only lived in this home for two months. With one primary income, we felt blessed to purchase this size of house. And it was built only four years ago in a new development. This house was not what I considered a "fixer-upper" like other homes we've lived in prior to this one.

I settled it in my mind that I was ready to move into this home without any construction projects for a while. Well, the Lord had other plans for us.

Every day I ask the Lord to guide my steps. I confess, I struggled with this scenario. I am grateful for things not being worse. I am thankful the damage is limited to one room. I'm thankful that I'm still able to live in the home in spite of not having my own bed to sleep in. I'm thankful we have insurance. But still, this experience did not line up with my expectations.

I wanted to set up house and be very comfortable. But, no I have a mess. As I type this, I'm listening to hammers pounding below me. I'm thankful we found a contractor to work with so many businesses and homes damaged.

In this mess, I've discovered there is beauty. Due to my human nature, oftentimes I fail to see God's glory when everything is going right for me. I must struggle to see God's goodness. The Lord desires that I see HIM at work in this mess. He alone does more for me than I can see.

Looking back over my life, I do not regret my painful experiences, but am grateful for them as they have brought me closer to the Lord. This mess I'm in now is not any different. I'm seeing God provide for us in ways I could not fathom. Physically, financially, and emotionally God is remodeling my mess turning it into something beautiful.

"To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified." ~~Isaiah 61:3

True Love

2011-02-14T01:11:00.000-06:00

What is true love? I found the answer and I'll share it with you.

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. ~~1 John 4:7-12

True love comes from God because God is love. Only by knowing Jesus, the Son of God, can we experience this love. God's Son sacrificed for our sins out of love for us. Therefore, we can love one another allowing His love to be made complete in us.

I received this image in an email and I want to share it with you as it sums up true love.

Our Journey

2011-01-31T07:37:00.003-06:00

Now whenever the cloud lifted from the Tabernacle, the people of Israel would set out on their journey, following it. But if the cloud did not rise, they remained where they were until it lifted. ~~ Exodus 40:36-37 NLT

The Lord delivered the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. For over 400 years, His people felt forgotten. But now the Lord was with them, living in their camp.

Moses spent time with the Lord up on Mount Sinai and during that time he received the instructions on how to build the Tabernacle. People came forward and gave materials and time to build the place where the Lord would dwell with them.

They were on a journey and needed guidance. Before, the building of the Tabernacle, the people turned and worshipped other gods. Moses interceded on their behalf and pleaded with the Lord to go with them. Moses knew the people could not travel without God going with them.

God dwelled among the Israelites manifesting Himself as a cloud during the day and a fire at night so the people could see it and continue their journeys.

Our lives are journeys. Each day we need to see God and where He leads us. Sometimes we need to stay put, other times it is time to move. But for certain, we should not travel without God.

As a parent, it's hard to know what to do. When my child tells me he is hurt or sick, do I take him to the doctor right away or do I wait? I've had doctors ask me why didn’t I bring him in sooner and also they've told me I'm being overly cautious.

When my emotions become stirred up, do I follow the way I feel or do I look up at the "cloud" to see where the Lord is leading? Seeking God in His word to determine where He wants me to go is always the better choice.

While on our journeys, we need to determine if God is leading us to move, or to remain where we are for the moment. Without the Lord's leading, we'll be lost on our journey.

Sometimes We Need to Fight

2011-01-24T01:03:00.001-06:00

So Joshua fought the Amalekites as Moses had ordered, and Moses, Aaron and Hur went to the top of the hill. As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning.~~Exodus 17:10-11 NIV

God kept His promise and brought the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage. However, the Lord did not take them on the easy route.

Often times God takes us on journeys that we have no idea why we're going in the direction we're headed. Though, there are times He wants to see if we will keep the fight in us.

While the Israelites lived in the desert where the Lord led them, they had to fight the Amalekites with the encouragement of Moses, Aaron and Hur as their supporters.

I remember reading a story to my children some years back about Gertrude Ederle. Gertrude was a gold medalist swimmer. In 1925, she took on the challenge to swim the 21-mile English Channel from France to England. Only five men had successfully completed the swim and no woman was on record for it.

On her first attempt, her trainer touched her only seven miles from shore. He thought she was too nauseated to continue, but she wanted to go on. But that slight touch disqualified her.

She could have stopped and never tried again. She wondered with her failure if she could acquire more sponsors for another attempt. With her resolve stronger than before, she had to eliminate the defeating memories that crossed her mind and build a team of supporters that included her friends and family.

Gertrude returned to the channel in 1926 and completed the swim with great swells coming against her. Not only did she complete the swim, but she beat all the previous records held by the men.

The fight of determination inside Gertrude with the support of her friends and family helped her achieve what had not been done before.

The Israelites did not give up and fought against their enemies and they had the support of Moses, Aaron and Hur.

I must remind myself frequently, that just because God called me to go in a certain direction, it doesn’t mean I'll get to go the easy route.

A few weeks ago, I read on my friend Darlene Schacht's blog. She wrote in this post:

When you combine persistence with the grace of God, you become a dynamic living force. It’s as simple as that. Stop giving up when the going gets tough, and for once in your life, make it happen. This lesson in persistence is one to be applied to every area of our lives whether it be healthy eating, working out our marriage or trusting the Lord through a trial.

I decided that for 2011, I'm going to adopt a phrase from the above paragraph as my motto:

Persistence with the grace of God!

How about you? Ready to press forward with what the Lord has for you? Ready to fight for it with persistence, supporters and God's grace? Let's go!

Do You Have a Big Dream?

2011-01-17T00:37:00.000-06:00

On August 28, 1963, Martin Luther King stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and rendered one of the most successful speeches in American history. He inspired and ignited dreams in Americans for equality. To truly have one nation under God, for all men who are created equal by God to exercise the rights promised by the founding father to guarantee the unalienable rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

God gives us BIG dreams. Our God is a big God and cannot be contained in our finite minds.

As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. ~~ Isaiah 55:9 NIV

We don’t always understand God for He so big. But here is an example I can grasp. With all the planes that fly around in the airspace, air traffic controllers have radars that can see and identify all the planes in that airspace. They can see the big picture of where the planes are and where they are going.

When I was in the Air Force, I received what is called an “incentive flight.” As a reward for some achievement, I flew in a jet aircraft. While flying up in the airspace, the air traffic controller (ATC) instructed the pilots. My pilot played around and goofed off as he showed me different things they do while up in the sky (please pray for military pilots).

Then the air traffic controller adamantly told the pilot to maintain a certain altitude and heading. At the urgent sound of the ATC’s voice, the pilot obeyed. Though we could not see what was above us or flying near us, the air traffic controller saw it. I don’t even want to imagine what could have happened if the pilot had not obeyed. We finished our flight and landed safely.

God has the big picture of our lives. We don’t see the big picture and the things that are going on around us, but God gives each of us dreams to navigate us in the direction He wants us to go.

Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. ~~Psalm 34:7 NIV

God places the desires and dreams in our hearts. What we need to do is trust Him to bring it to pass.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5 NIV

Martin Luther King dreamed dreams bigger than he was, and he made a difference. Laws have been passed that guarantee that equality to all people in our country. God gives each of us a dream, and navigates our lives to achieve His dream for a purpose bigger than ourselves. Do you have a big dream?

Happy New Year!

2011-01-03T06:51:00.003-06:00

I confess, I'm having a difficult time wrapping my mind around the concept of it is 2011. As a child, I imagined Star Wars-like travel taking place by this time. Over the past two weeks, I made a couple of road trips and sitting in the car for a long time still felt like old time travel to me.

But still 2011 is here! Time keeps moving forward in spite of any attempts I make to stop it. I also confess at times I wished I could stop time for everyone else, while I run around catching up. But that hasn't happened yet either.

Though my youngest son tries to convince me that time travel may actually be real because he saw a 1928 Charlie Chaplin movie at school with what appears to be a person talking on a cell phone. (To see that clip, click here.)

Regardless if that is a time traveler or if it can actually be explained, I decided that God created time for us. It's how we use that time that really matters. The older I grow, the more I realize that relationships matter more than anything else.

First, I realized my relationship with the Lord must be right before my relationships with others--my husband, children, extended family, friends, and others will work. To improved my relationship with God, I started reading His word on a regular basis.

Three years ago, I embarked on a journey that changed my life. I read the Bible completely through. I choose to read it chronologically the first two years, then last year I read it by Old Testament/New Testament sequentially.

By reading the Bible regularly, I realized it has drawn me closer to God and a closer walk with Him.

This is the account of Noah and his family. Noah was a righteous man, the only blameless person living on earth at the time, and he walked in close fellowship with God. ~~Genesis 6:9, NLT

Way back when, Noah walked in a close relationship with God and he was considered the only blameless person on the earth at the time. He lived during a very wicked and perverse generation. That sounds a lot like our times doesn’t it?

Well, we can walk right with God no matter what goes on around us by having a closer relationship to Him. Daniel choose to do what's right though he lived in a foreign land. We're foreigners just passing through, like the "time traveler" in the Charlie Chaplin movie.

Again, this year I committed to read the Bible through historically. I've used this site, BibleYear.com, because I can choose from five different reading plans from so many different versions and languages. I made my choice, then I simply bookmark it then click open each morning.

Will you join me in 2011 in seeking a closer walk with the Lord by reading His word on a regular basis?

Happy New Year 2011! May you walk more closely with the Lord this year!

The Sign

2010-12-13T09:41:00.004-06:00

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” ~~ Luke 2:11-12 NIV

What does December 2009 and December 2010 have in common for me? Moving.

Last year we loaded up our home of eleven years and moved 430 miles. Yes, in December for my husband had to report to his new job in January. We rented a home in the area we decided we wanted to live for our son to attend school.

After one year we have learned the area, researched the schools, and bought a home. So again we move, but this time only six miles down the road. This move feels a bit easier because I am moving a little bit at a time and I can still see all my stuff. Whereas last year, everything except the absolute necessities was packed securely in boxes.

Interestingly I have been forced to learn something about Christmas I don’t think I would have learned any other way.

Not by choice, these last two years I haven't seen my Christmas decorations. The halls of my home are not decked. I hope the manger scene made the move without broken pieces, but I haven't seen it since I packed it away after Christmas in 2008.

Because of the transition last year and this year, decorations are not the priority. We have a purpose greater than then decorations which is the completing transition. During this time of transition, the focus shifted from decorating, cooking, and purchasing gifts for exchanging with one another to spending time together during the move.

Family gathered together to accomplish a goal but still taking a little time out to celebrate the greatest gift of all -- the Savior. The move has been a sign for me to focus on family.

After the birth of the Messiah, an angel appeared to the shepherds and told them they will find a sign. Not the dashing flashing lights we see as we drive through the neighborhoods this time of year, but a baby wrapped in cloths and placed in a manager because there was no room for them in the inn. The simplicity of the Savior's arrival could have been missed, but the angel told them what to look for.

In the years past, I often have taken the most meaningful things for granted. Such as the smile on my husband's or children's faces when I prepare a delicious meal or snack. Or the joy we share as we prepare food all huddled together in the kitchen. The hugs when wake up in the mornings. The laughter expressed while we pause to play board games.

As of today, the boxes holding my Christmas decorations are waiting in my new garage. After we move furniture this weekend, as a family we plan to put out only a few selected items in our new home just days before Christmas.

Previously I allowed my life at this time of year to become complicated with lots of added stress. Though circumstances have forced me to see the sign and keep to the basics, I hope the simplicity will become a new tradition (but not the moving)!

Blessed Hope -- Revisited

2010-12-06T08:58:00.004-06:00

Thank God we always have hope in Him. His hope sustains us in whatever situations we face. I find that as I look back, I can see how far God has brought me. Today I share with you a post from two years ago. I can remember where I was and thank God for where I am now!

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When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!" Luke 1:41-45 NIV

After the angel announced to Mary she would conceive the Messiah, she traveled to see her cousin, Elizabeth. As soon as she heard Mary’s voice, Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit as the presence of the Lord came near her. The Holy Spirit revealed to her that Mary carried the promised Messiah.

This must have been such an exciting moment for both these women who were chosen to be used by God to fulfill His prophecies. Being good Jewish women, they had heard the writing of the prophets read aloud every Sabbath. Though at this time in history, Jewish people had not heard from God through the prophets for approximately 400 years, the fulfillment of the long awaited promise was great news to their ears.

For years the people put their hope in the promises of God. They may have wondered if it would come to pass. Now the One God promised was conceived. God keeps all His promises. Not one has failed to come to pass.

Sometimes it seems as though we wait and wait for a promise, wondering if it will ever come to pass. But God is faithful to keep all His promises. Jesus Christ was born as promised in the writings of the Prophets. He will return again as written in the Prophets. We have that glorious hope. We have Jesus Christ. We have the Scriptures. We have the Holy Spirit.

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. ~~Romans 15:4 NIV

All the trials we go through create endurance in us. We have the Scriptures to read for encouragement so we have hope. When I faced a problem, one of my first instincts was (and often still is) to complain about it with whoever would listen, whether it was my husband or an available friend. I’ve had to learn over time and retrain myself to have a new first instinct—to run to the Lord in prayer and read His Word. He provides the answer.

When we receive the answer, then we can run to our loved ones and friends as Mary went to Elizabeth. They celebrated the great news. Let’s spread the good news instead of our frustrations. We have the blessed hope in the Messiah.

Inspired by Faith

2010-11-22T01:08:00.001-06:00

for we walk by faith, not by sight-- ~~ 2 Corinthians 5:7 NASB

Last week, November 9-14, I attended the CLASS Christian Writers Conference. I served CLASS in the capacity of the Transportation Coordinator, therefore, I had prior contact with most the faculty and attendees who flew in for the conference.

Several days before time to depart, I received an email that a late registration was approved. I emailed Nancy informing her of what to expect. When she replied, she informed me when she expected to arrive, but would contact me if it did not turn out the way she planned.

She literally was walking out by faith what the Lord just placed on her heart -- to attend this writers conference. She flew standby and trusted the Lord that if He wanted her there, she would be on time.

I prayed, but still had my "concerns." But boy, did the Lord show me! Nancy arrived right on time, which was a few hours before the bus was scheduled to leave the airport for the ranch.

However, it doesn’t stop there. She still had to return to her hometown after the conference ended. She checked on the best possibilities for standby on return flights. She had no idea how she would make the 2 1/2 trek back to the airport from the ranch, but told me she fully trusted God to meet her needs.

As it turned out, she needed to be at the airport by 7:30 am on Sunday morning, and by God's grace, CLASS had a driver willing leave at 5am.

When traveling, I prefer my flights arranged and on schedule. Flying on Southwest Airlines, I did not get to preselect my seat, but I paid extra so I could be first in line to choose a seat.

Would I be willing to fly standby like Nancy? I think God would give me the grace to do so if He asked me.

Nancy isn't the only woman I met who flew by faith. I made a mistake in scheduling times for the return bus. Sharon missed her scheduled flight home due to my error, and had to fly standby.

These women are a living testimony of walking (actually flying) by faith, not by sight. Their faith in God meeting all their needs spoke volumes to me. Nancy made it home Sunday in time to teach her Sunday night Bible class. Sharon trusted God to get her home that night and He did. Both these ladies demonstrated their faith in God though they could not see how He would do it.

Seeing their faith inspired me.

Open My Eyes - Repost

2010-11-15T01:28:00.001-06:00

I spent the last week at the CLASS Christian Writers Conference. I plan on sharing some highlights with you next week. In the meantime, please enjoy this repost.

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And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. Andhe vanished from their sight. ~~Luke 24:31 ESV

Have you ever cried out, “I just don’t understand?” Sometimes events unfold right in front of us and we do not understand the meaning of it.

Two men were walking on the road to Emmaus, which was about seven miles northwest from Jerusalem. They were talking about the crucifixion of Christ. They, like so many of the other people of the times hoped Jesus was the one to redeem Israel from the Roman rule. They were so caught up in the situation, they could not see past it.

Then the resurrected Jesus showed up and walked along side of these two men. ”And he said to them, ‘What is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?’ Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, ‘Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?’”

Apparently the news of the crucifixion traveled very quickly among the people of the land, without the use of cell phones and email. They did not recognize Jesus and they thought he must be the only one who did not know what just took place. So they proceeded to explain it to Jesus. When they got to the part about the women who reported angels and an empty tomb, Jesus interrupted them.

"O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?" And beginning withMoses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. (Luke 24:25-27 ESV)

I can see myself explaining an event and Jesus interrupting me to tell me how foolish I am. We need to understand the Scriptures. It is so easy for me to talk about what is going on in our world today, and feel disgruntled like these men on their way to Emmaus. But what if I let Jesus explain the Scriptures to me?

Jesus stayed with the men for just a little bit longer. When Jesus broke bread with them and gave it to them, then their eyes were opened. They realized it was Jesus and He was alive! They had an “ah-ha” moment.

Jesus explained the Scriptures to them. Most of us have several copies of the Bible in our homes. There are several places on the internet to read the Bible. God’s word is readily available to us. Let’s read and study God’s word and ask Him to explain what it means to us and ask Him to open our eyes to see Him.

About Time

2010-11-08T01:18:00.000-06:00

Then Joshua spoke to the LORD in the day when the LORD delivered up the Amorites before the sons of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel, "O sun, stand still at Gibeon, And O moon in the valley of Aijalon." So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, Until the nation avenged themselves of their enemies Is it not written in the book of Jashar? And the sun stopped in the middle of the sky and did not hasten to go down for about a whole day. ~~Joshua 10:12-13 NASB

Night vision goggles were not an option in the day of Joshua. He needed more daylight to lead the Israelites to victory against the five allied kings that came against him.

Joshua led the Hebrew people into the Promised Land, but they had to fight the occupants for it. God said to Joshua, "Do not fear them, for I have given them into your hands; not one of them shall stand before you." (Joshua 10:8, NASB).

The Lord fought for His people as if He were almost literally throwing hailstones from the sky at the enemy. The Israelites fought using swords. But they needed more time, specifically daylight, so Joshua spoke to God requesting that the sun stand still. God granted his request for almost a whole day.

"There was no day like that before it or after it, when the LORD listened to the voice of a man; for the LORD fought for Israel" (Joshua 10:14).

So there has never been a day like that since Joshua's request. However, man has had his attempts at taking advantage of daylight by adjusting the time, which confuses a lot of us (myself being one of them).

When the United States entered World War I, Daylight Saving Time was enacted to take advantage of the later daylight hours between April and October in effort to save energy for war production. Once again during World War II, the U.S. government required observance of the adjusted times to have more light hours. In 1966, Congress standardized the length of Daylight Saving Time. Then in 2007, the government lengthened the time by four weeks.

For me, some of the confusion comes because states and communities have the option to participate in Daylight Saving Time or not, as well as the recent change a few years ago on which Sunday the time "springs forward" and "falls back."

I confess, last weekend of October I was confused. I did not change my clocks, but as I prepared to walk out the door, my iPhone time showed it was an hour earlier. I looked in the newspaper and the internet for info about the time change. Well, my smart phone wasn’t so smart. I had to manually set it back forward. I had the right time and so glad my confusion was very temporary.

I hope you moved your clocks back yesterday and enjoyed the extra hour of sleep. God gave us time and we must live within those confines. Our government has tried to make us feel like we have more time, but regardless, we all have the same 24 hours in a day. I close with this C.S. Lewis quote about time.

Humans are amphibians - half spirit and half animal. As spirits they belong to the eternal world, but as animals they inhabit time. C. S. Lewis

Do Our Part

2010-11-01T00:38:00.002-05:00

"Go, assemble the elders of Israel and say to them, 'The LORD, the God of your fathers—the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob—appeared to me and said: I have watched over you and have seen what has been done to you in Egypt. And I have promised to bring you up out of your misery in Egypt into the land of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites—a land flowing with milk and honey.'" ~~Exodus 3:16-17 NIV

The Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob gave Moses a promise for the Israelites. For their time of suffering in Egypt, God led them to the Promised Land. A land flowing with milk and honey.

God being God keeps His word for He is not a man that should lie (Numbers 23:19). He never concealed the fact that the land was occupied. God told Moses and Moses conveyed the message to the Hebrew people.

The Pharaoh let God's people go and led them right to the Red Sea. It was there Moses was instructed by God to consecrate the first born male and to eat nothing containing yeast. This instituted the first observance of the Passover. Then Moses told them:

When the LORD brings you into the land of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Hivites and Jebusites—the land he swore to your forefathers to give you, a land flowing with milk and honey—you are to observe this ceremony in this month. ~~ Exodus 13:5

The people were advised that the land was occupied by others. When the people actually arrived at the border, Moses sent in spies to spy out the land. The spies then instilled fear in God's people with this report (Numbers 13:26-33, my paraphrase):

The land does flow with milk and honey.
Here's the fruit.
The people there are powerful.
We saw the Amalekites, Hittites, Jebusites, Amorites, Canaanites living there.
They are stronger so we can't attack.
The land devours those who live there.
The people are giants.
We look like grasshoppers.

Only Joshua and Caleb said, " We can do it." God promised the people the land, but they had to do their part. Because they failed to do their part, they spent 40 years in the wilderness.

In America, on Tuesday, we have an opportunity to do our part. God promised Abraham He would bless those who bless him. Our nation has so many blessings and promises from the Lord, but we must do our part. We MUST vote.

The Hebrew people were to take the land with weapons, but our weapons are our pencils at the polling places tomorrow. Our nation was founded on the belief of one nation under God. We can take this land by trusting God to lead us into battle as we exercise our freedoms by voting. Seek the Lord on whom to vote.

Typically fewer people turn out for mid-term elections. We can change what has been the norm. Let's not instill fear to be complacent among our brothers and sisters in Christ. Let's be like Joshua and Caleb saying, "We can do it!"

To continue to live in our land that flows with milk and honey, let's do our part.

Without Grumbling

2010-10-18T01:00:00.000-05:00

"Do all thingswithout grumbling orquestioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of Godwithout blemish in the midst ofa crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shineas lights in the world" (Philippians 2:14-15 ESV)

I have friends who parent with a gentle and quiet spirit. I've met mothers of my friends who have that calmness about them. But I must confess, that has not been me.

I must allow the Holy Spirit to take over me because my old nature likes to rear its ugly self. That person in me before Christ shouted and barked at her husband and children. If shoes were left out, I sounded like, "Why can't you ever put away your shoes? Do I have to trip over them and break my neck before you'll do it?"

I grumbled and complained about every little thing. I was the kind of wife that Solomon described that it was better to live on the corner of the roof than inside with a nagging wife. He not only said it once, but twice in the Proverbs.

"Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife" (Proverbs 21:9, 25:24 NIV).

With all the wives and concubines Solomon had, I wonder how many nights he slept on the roof top? But what does that have to do with me?

I MUST choose by the power of the Holy Spirit who lives in me not to nag my family about what they don't do. And it is effort for me, but I find is worth it.

There are ways to get my point across without grumbling or questioning (and may I add slamming doors to get attention). I stumbled onto this one night at the dinner table.

My youngest son, Chase, asked when we were getting close to being done with dinner, "Mom, do I have to do the dishes tonight?"

"No, son you don’t," spoken in a normal tone of voice.

Surprised by my calm remark, Chase raised his voice, "What? You're not going to tell me I have to?"

"No, you don’t have to."

The conversation went onto something else for a little while, then we started clearing the table. But he caught on rather quickly and asked, "But if I don't, then you won't let me play video games later will you?"

I replied, "That sounds like a good plan."

Chase commenced to rinsing off the dishes and putting them into the dishwasher.

Wow! Being calm is effective. It works! Now I know it works and by the grace of God I'm making it my habit to instruct my children and talk to my husband without grumbling.

Better Remain Silent

2010-10-11T01:00:00.001-05:00

But they were silent and answered him not a word, for the king’s command was, "Do not answer him." ~~ Isaiah 36:21, ESV

Have you ever wanted to give someone your piece of mind?

Oh, I shall confess. Absolutely! I've experienced times I wanted to share my point of view regardless if the other person would get it or not. I just wanted my voice to be heard.

Well sometimes God tells us it is better to remain silent. In Isaiah 36-37, the King of Assyria through his field commander taunts King Hezekiah and the people of Judah. He says things like (my paraphrase):

What is your strategy?
Are you really depending on the Lord God?
Listen to me and I'll make you a deal.
Can King Hezekiah and the Lord really save you?

If someone mouths off to me, I must restrain myself from saying what comes to my mind. I remember my oldest son used to come home distraught because someone made fun of me. He wanted to defend me. It hurts when someone talks mean about our mother, no matter how old we become.

Years ago, I worked in an office full of men who didn't particularly care for my husband. I listened to them talk badly about him in front of me. That was a painful period of time.

Certainly, there are times to speak out, but there are times to be quiet. How did King Hezekiah and the people of Judah handle this situation? They remained silent. They did not answer them.

But is silence enough? King Hezekiah sought the Lord. We can follow his example and pray about situations that bother us. The Lord will give us an answer on how to deal with our particular situation. A prophet may not come in and give us a direct commandment from the Lord as Isaiah did for King Hezekiah. But we can seek God in His word and if we listen to Him, He may speak to us through other people or worship music. No matter which way the answer comes, God will give us an answer when we seek Him.

Then we follow God's instructions and trust Him to deliver us from the situation as King Hezekiah did. In this situation, God took care of everything. All King Hezekiah had to do was to seek the Lord.

With my son, he and I prayed for those who spoke badly of me. I instructed him not to talk to them about it, but to ignore them. In my work, I continued to pray for those men until the Lord allowed me to resign from that position.

In most confrontational circumstances, it may be best to remain silent and seek the Lord. God can deliver us from the evil. Remember, we do not wrestle with flesh and blood, but the spiritual forces of evil. Therefore, we will never win on our own strength. It's better to remain silent and pray.

Pharisaical Christian

2010-10-04T11:23:00.004-05:00

When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and 'sinners'?" ~~Matthew 9:11 NIV

When Jesus saw Matthew, a tax collector, working in his booth, He commanded Matthew to follow Him. Jesus then ate dinner at Matthew's house. Nobody wanted to be associated with a tax collector because they were sinners. Tax collectors commonly took more than what was owed so they could pocket the excess.

The Pharisees criticized Jesus for this act. According to Harper's Bible Dictionary, Pharisee in Hebrew means "separate ones." Also, "The Pharisees were zealous observers of the law, prominent among the people and especially concerned with ritual purity, tithing, food according to OT [Old Testament] law, and correct observance of Sabbath." Therefore, the Pharisees were deemed self-righteous hypocrites.

What do Pharisees have to do with Christians? Last week, I listened to a recording of a well-known public speaker and author. When he described his faith, he described it as "a follower of Jesus who believes the Bible reveals the Truth." Then he went on to say that he does not call himself a Christian.

Why? Isn't a Christian one who believes in the teachings of Jesus who is the way, the truth, and the life and the only means to the Father? His explanation, unfortunately, did not shock me but took my mind to a place it hadn't thought of before. He stated:

"The term 'Christian' means different things to many different people, and lots of them are bad. These negative connotations have been rightly earned. Some of the greatest atrocities ever visited upon mankind have been done so by so-called 'Christians' and in the name of Jesus. So, when you say the word 'Christian,' there is no telling what it means to the particular person you are talking to."

What does "Christian" mean to the person we're talking to? Unfortunately, the truth is lots of people, including myself, have been hurt by well-meaning Christians. As a fellow believer, I feel like I have judged other Christians rather easily if they did not think like me or held the same doctrinal beliefs. And other Christians have judged me for my views not lining up with theirs.

Beth Moore explains there are spine issues, such as Jesus Christ born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, crucified for our sins, and resurrected and lives today. Then there are the rib issues that we need not argue over, such as music.

If there is much disunity among the believers, how do the unbelievers see Christians? I read an article on the internet by a homosexual who felt judged and condemned by the Christian community. How often do we preach "love the sinner, but hate the sin" but we don’t live it out. The message my pastor shared yesterday was not to treat the person any differently than you want to be treated. We ALL sin.

Jesus enjoyed his dinner with Matthew, the tax collector and the Pharisees criticized him for it. Here's how he replied:

On hearing this, Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." ~~ Matthew 9:12-13 NIV

The Lord desires us to be merciful, gracious and kind to others no matter what their status. Love draws people to Christ, not condemnation and criticism. I do not intend to imply that all Christians have turned into Pharisees, but looking at the broader scope do Christians appear to others like self-righteous hypocrites? Then we are Pharisaical Christians.

Whether you use the term "Jesus follower" or "Christian," join me this week in loving others like Jesus loves. He sat down with the sinners without criticizing them. Let's be merciful and gracious to one another--believers and unbelievers.

Note: To listen to the recording I referred to in the text above, click this link.

Driven by Perfection

2010-09-20T02:00:00.001-05:00

Today, I have another guest post at Truth and Grace Ministry Blog with Karen Lowe

I dreamed about my life being perfect. Marrying the perfect man. Having the perfect children. You know, the perfect family? Right?

What? Your family is not perfect? Well, honestly, neither is mine. But that’s okay, because perfection does not drive me; having fun is my approach to life. My youngest son strives for perfection in everything he does.

Perfection is a typical melancholy trait because they want things done right. The Sanguine and Melancholy personalities are polar opposites of each other. Not that a Sanguine does not want things done right, but details do not naturally rise up in a Sanguine’s thought process.

I’ll be loud, goofy and funny, but not so much for my son Chase. He tends to be serious, quiet and orderly. As I took a break from writing this post to play with him, he said, “Mom, you’re in my bubble.”

To read the rest of this post, click on over.

Truth or Lies

2010-09-13T01:00:00.000-05:00

Can lies be disguised at the truth?

I think so.

What do we think about and believe, but later found out where false?

"He will never understand me!"

"This child will never change!"

"My friend has not called me in a week, I must have made her mad at me."

I confess, I battle with thoughts in my head like a gardener battles weeds. If we think on something long enough, we start to believe it even if it is not true.

I’m thankful to have God's word, for He tells us what to do when those lies come to us.

" We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:5, NIV).

We are to destroy the lying thoughts as if we're pulling weeds. Weeds left to their own demise will grow stronger and stronger. The roots grow deeper and wider, the stem growing thicker, and it will take much more work to pull out the weed. But if a weed is pulled at the time it pops out, it is much easier. Lies will grow and grow until it becomes too difficult to retrain our minds.

But we can't just stop with the demolishing of the thoughts like weeds. We must replace the lies with God's truth. God's truth will transform our lives from the inside out.

Once a gardener removes weeds, she must take care of the soil and water it. God's word is like the tender loving care of the gardener. We must be fertilized and watered on a regular basis like a garden to keep the lies from planting themselves in our minds. Yet, sometimes, like weeds, they pop back after removal.

That happened to me this last week. My husband supports me in the writing and speaking ministry where the Lord has called me to serve. Thoughts came to my mind that he did not. I entertained those thoughts which led to me lashing out at him and him jabbing back at me. It took a few hours, but once we realized what happened, we talked and prayed.

I am learning to discern more quickly the lies the evil one wants me to believe and to be in regular communication with my husband. We then turn to God's Word, which is truth. We can run to His Word and be set free from the lies. What are you believing? Truth or lies?

Free to Be Me

2010-09-06T01:30:00.001-05:00

Today I am a guest at Truth and Grace Ministries blog with Karen Lowe.

For many years, I lived a depressed life. I would wake up, take the kids to school, come home, start some wash, and go back to bed. About noon, I’d get up, eat something, put the clothes in the dryer, and return to bed. At three, I forced myself to put on clothes, wash my face, and pick up the boys from school. I moped around the rest of the day doing only what was required.

Though I’ve never been incarcerated, I formed bars around myself that limited my life and freedom. Why? What happened to me?

For years, I tried to be everything that everyone wanted me to be. I could not live up to their expectations; therefore, I felt like a failure–as a wife, mom, friend, and, yes, even as a Christian.

To read the rest of this post, click on over.

Discipline

2010-08-30T06:30:00.004-05:00

For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yieldsthe peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. ~~Hebrews 12:11 ESV

"I can't wait until I grow up so I can do whatever I want!" cried out my son after being disciplined.

Parents, do you ever hear those words come out of the mouths of your children? I remember saying those words as a child. I thought parents could do and get away with whatever they want to do.

Yes, as grownups we do have choices to make. We do have freedoms to choose, therefore, in one way the child is correct. We can do whatever we want.

"All things are lawful," but not all things are helpful. "All things are lawful," but not all things build up. ~~1 Corinthians 10:13

We can do all things, but all things are not helpful or builds up. Some other Bible versions use the words profitable, beneficial and constructive.

Therefore, our choices have consequences. We will reap what we sow. If we continually make wrong choices, we not have a life that helps others, builds up, and is constructive.

We'll be destructive no matter what area of discipline we're dealing with--health, finances, relationships, etc. If we continually eat the wrong foods, we'll have consequences. If we spend too much money on frivolous things, we'll be broke. If we do not nurture relationships, they'll be gone.

Our lives require discipline at all ages. Discipline is not easy, but difficult, but we must train our children and train ourselves to live by it. It takes discipline to make the right choices when others are not.

How often do we want to speed on the highway because we're running late. I know I have a propensity to behind in my schedule. I need more discipline in my life to leave in plenty of time so I don’t have to rush.

What about when we're out shopping? We must fight those impulses to buy things we don’t need or looks good at the moment?

What about spending time with people we love, nurturing relationships?

Our lives require discipline. Often times I think it would be so much easier if I had someone telling me what to do like I tell my child. But I do! My heavenly Father disciplines me because He loves me. (Heb. 12:6)

I am loved as I'm feeling the discipline! How about you?

Wild and Amazing Life

2010-08-25T14:47:00.006-05:00

Dear Friends & Family,

I thank God for His grace--Wild & Amazing Grace! Ya'll I'm having a great time in the Lord.

I like to have my blog posts publish on Monday, but that did not work out this week. Why? Because I was thrown a change-up and struck out. My youngest son, Chase, plays football with his middle school and he's now on a fall league baseball team. I knew he was on a baseball team, however, I didnt know when the season started. I learned last Friday all the baseball games are on Sunday afternoons, double headers I add. That's the time I used to write blog posts. The good news, I'm still on the line-up and I'll get another turn at bat. So I plan to return to regular schedule next week.

I'm more focused on working the numbers as mentioned in my last post for discipline. It's all a matter of discipline or I'd go wild. God has given me this one body and I must choose to be a good steward with what I have. This change requires intentional focus on my behalf. I do believe once I make it a way of life and it will become natural to me.

My partner, Shona Neff and I have StepUP Writing and Speaking going in full swing. We've had our first webinar training with more to come. We've brought in experts to our blog to share information. We're receiving such gracious and encouraging comments. These speakers are also giving away prizes. This week Kathi Lipp is giving away a speakers packet. Also, author and Proverbs 31 speaker, Shari Braendel is giving away a copy of her new book, Good Girls Don't Have to Dress Bad. Hop on over to StepUP Writing and Speaking to leave comments for a chance to win a prize.

Darlene Schacht, who launched Christian Women Online is now launching a new online magazine with actress/author Candace Cameron Bure. I submitted according to instructions and I've been accepted to write for this new magazine that will launch in October.

I've been working with Take Root and Write for over one and half years as a columnist and editor. Noelle Mena sold it this summer to Spring Fricks. Spring has wonderful plans to grow this digital magazine even more than imagined before. We're accepting submissions for the October magazine. The theme is "rest." If you are interested, email Shona the senior editor at senioreditor[at]takerootandwrite[dot]com for more information.

I'm assisting CLASSeminars as the Transportation Coordinator for the writers conference in November. I'll be there at Ghost Ranch and if you come to the writers conference, I'll see you there!

And if that's not enough on my plate, I figured that since my wonderful state of Texas has money for veterans to receive a higher level education, I've transferred to my local university's liberal arts program for a degree in English and American Literature. I started my classes this week.

That's an update with what's going on in my wild and amazing life! Please share a bit about what's going on in your life.

Numbers

2010-08-16T03:00:00.002-05:00

The LORD spoke to Moses in the Tent of Meeting in the Desert of Sinai on the first day of the second month of the second year after the Israelites came out of Egypt. He said: "Take a census of the whole Israelite community by their clans and families, listing every man by name, one by one. You and Aaron are to number by their divisions all the men in Israel twenty years old or more who are able to serve in the army. ~~Numbers 1:1-3 NIV

Do you like working with numbers? I just do not think in numbers. I like to play BUNCO, but when it's time to add up the points, I pull out a calculator.

Yet numbers seem to be an important part of life, so I have had to adapt to using them and thank God for the tools we have as crutches for those math challenged people like me.

I've been learning a lot more about how to use numbers for discipline this past month. Remember my post about "Why Do I Do That?" I discussed my food nemesis, sugar. Well in order to help me get past the cravings and put restraint in my life, I've learned that numbers are involved.

For food, those numbers are called calories. The foods we eat contain calories and if we eat too many calories, it adds numbers to the scales when we step on them. I have avoided the numbers on the scales for way too long. I must face the truth to be free to change my reality. Avoidance does not work (another post for another time).

So to take control, I've enlisted the support of tools because tracking numbers on papers seems too difficult to me. I use a smart phone app called "Lose It." I enter the foods I eat and the calorie count for the serving size. It reveals on the screen the number calories I've eaten and even gives me a red bar if I've had too much.

But it's also just not about the number of calories consumed, but the number of calories burned through exercise. I used to exercise without seeing results, but I think I've figured out that I wasn’t burning enough calories. Thirty minutes of moderate walking only burns approximately 100 calories. Thirty minutes of very brisk walking, only 150.

Therefore, I've had to develop a plan to burn much more calories during my day. I started exercising two hours a day, combining strength and cardio to increase the calorie burn. I strive to burn 700 calories, five days a week. My reason--3500 calories equals one pound. I hope to lose at a minimum of one pound per week. I use an app call Runkeeper to help me track the number of calories burned for various types of exercises.

Did you know how these numbers work? As I stated, I'm just figuring these things out.

Using numbers requires a concerted discipline for me. It's an effort, but worth it. God incorporated the use of numbers in His divine plan. There is a book of the Bible called Numbers. This books starts off with God calling for a census. According to Matthew Henry's Commentary, the purpose for keeping count was to prove God was keeping His promise to multiply the seed of Abraham. God is obviously into numbers and counting for the sake of keeping records, therefore, I better learn to keep records.

The area of keeping track of calories is the first step I'm taking to learn how to manage numbers. The next area I'm working on is finances as I'm currently taking the Financial Peace University course by Dave Ramsey. And yes, it is the week where the husband and wife sit down to work on the budget.

Yes, this free spirited, Sanguine gal is learning to adapt to the tedious task of using numbers for discipline, change and results.

Need a Defrag

2010-08-09T07:11:00.003-05:00

Then the LORD replied: "Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it. ~~Habakkuk 2:2 NIV

Sometimes life starts coming at us from all angles. The kids, the spouse, the work, the errands, the chores and more can seemingly interfere with our plans.

I’ve had plans to work on various projects for months now. But when I think I’m going to work on one of those, something more urgent pops up. I’m feeling fragmented.

Like our personal computers (PC’s), we sometimes need to be defragmented. When using our PC’s, over time with regular use, the files on the hard drive get spread out rather than being neatly organized. That causes the computer to work longer and harder to access the requested information.

Occasionally the PC needs to be defragmented, or defragging for short. This tool on the PC puts all the scattered pieces of the files back together in an organized fashion. This allows the computer to run more efficiently and reduces the amount of time it takes to work. It becomes more proficient. Not only that, it helps the hard drive to last longer.

I realized that I need a defrag. I’m scattered all over the place and because of that it takes me longer to get things done. I’m taking the first few days of this week to work on sorting out files in my life and getting my focus.

I need to write that focus down, make it plain and find a place to keep it in front of me. I need to be reminded of what I’m working toward in my family plans, my personal goals and business goals.

Sometimes, we all need to take a few days to defrag like the computer needs a defrag. When we do, like the PC, we’ll become more proficient and last longer.

Sometimes I Just Need a Song

2010-07-24T20:53:00.002-05:00

I'm thankful God put it on the hearts of musicians. This one brings peace and comfort to me.

Why Do I Do That?

2010-07-23T15:28:00.004-05:00

So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God's law; but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord! ~~ Romans 7:21-25 NIV

I confess--I want to do what is right and what is good all the time. Okay, okay, most of the time. Well, some of most of the time.

But I do not always make the right choices. Why do I do that?

I am thankful for God's word that shows me that I'm not the only one who struggled with this issue. The Apostle Paul described in Romans 7 his struggle with sin. He stated in Romans 7:15-20:

I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature.^c]"> For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. (NIV)

That's what I've been doing this July. Struggling. Why?

Because I have been doing what I hate to do and not doing what I want to do. That's the flesh warring with the spirit. How has this happened to me?

Others may not struggle with this, but this is my open and honest confession. I have struggled with mild depression and anxiety off and on for years. I realized in the last few years that these emotional struggles are related to dietary choices. (I realize not all people struggle in this area, such as my husband who cannot even begin to understand.)

I have a food nemesis. It's called SUGAR.

Sugar works in me like alcohol or drugs. It affects my blood sugar levels and turns me into a different person. I've read various books and reports on it. The consumption sugar increases my insulin levels, which in turn affect my hormone levels and causes all sorts of emotional distress.

I spent the last two days out of commission with a migraine (caused by out of balance hormones because of increased sugar consumption). While down and out, I spent some glorious time with the Lord. I realized it was my poor choices that put me down and out and that my choices have consequences.

I'm back up today and I realize it is part of my personal spiritual warfare to walk in obedience in my dietary choices.

Why do I have to do that? I have sin nature that is at work in my body. But thanks be to God who through Jesus Christ overcame for me. I confess and He is faithful to forgive. (1 John 1:9) With Jesus, I can live a life by the Spirit, not gratifying the desires of the sinful nature. (Galatians 5:16)

We all can. Thanks be to our Lord and Savior! I start again today, even though I did that.

Launching into New Adventures

2010-07-12T10:33:00.007-05:00

This summer my focus has changed to new and exciting adventures. I haven't been to exotic places or taken on thrilling endeavors. Though I do dream of having adrenaline rushing trips. You know the type like in the Indiana Jones movies.

Yet, I wonder if it would be to much excitement for me in reality. After all, Willie Scott did say, "I'm going home to Missouri, where they never ever feed you snake before ripping your heart out and lowering you into hot pits. This is not my idea of a swell time!"

So I'll let the adrenaline rushing adventures just be a dream.

However, my adventure is much milder and less risky. My partner, Shona Neff, and I started a blog site and services to benefit new writers and speakers who feel called by God to get started in what can be sometimes (or oftentimes) overwhelming world of writing and speaking. Our site is located at StepUPWritingandSpeaking.com. We have various posts up for readers to glean lots of insights.

Today, I have an article posted called, "Why Nonfiction Writers Should Read Fiction." Here's a peek:

"I don’t have time to read fiction."
Oh, that common statement crossed my lips many times. My attitude was that if I was going to take time out of my busy day to sit down with a book, I wanted to read something that would impact my life. How to improve my marriage, my kids, my walk with God. I wanted answers to life questions. I didn’t want to stop and enjoy a book.

But then God literally placed a book in my hands. While attending a weekly Bible study, my name was drawn to win a prize. I collected my prize and went home. I tore through the gift wrap to reveal a book--a fiction book.
Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
I prepared lunch. Started some laundry. I decided to sit down for a few minutes and investigate this book. I planned to read about ten minutes and then move on with the to-do list. I thought after a few pages of the introduction, I would be finished exploring and could turn my focus back to the important issues of the day.

Once I started reading, I could not pull myself away from the story grabbing me from the pages.

To continue reading, click on over. And when you do, be sure to join our Facebook and Twitter page for updates.

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-03T15:22:00.004-05:00

What plans to you have for this weekend? Picnics? Bar-b-que? Boating? Fireworks?

Whatever this day brings, I hope you take a few minutes to remember why Americans celebrate the 4th of July. It commemorates the day the Continental Congress ratified the Declaration of Independence. No longer did the colonies want to be under the tyranny of the British government.

After the declaration, the colonists fought for another two years to secure the freedoms of the American people. Peoples homes were destroyed. Wives lost husbands. Mothers lost sons. Blood was sacrificed so we can be free. Freedom is NEVER free.

In America, we have the right to choose where we live, where we work, what we'll eat, how we'll dress, where we want to go, and where we want to worship all because others have paid price.

It is my hope and prayer that "whosoever" will choose to worship Christ this weekend. For he was the sacrifice that set us free from the bondage of sin and death. Jesus paid the price, therefore, we are free!

"So if the Son sets you free, you are free indeed" (John 8:36, NIV).

Enjoy this song by the Newsboys! And enjoy your FREEDOM in Christ weekend!

Inherited Problems

2010-06-28T10:42:00.004-05:00

"Wisdom is good with an inheritance" (Ecclesiastics 7:11, ESV).

I'm disgusted with watching and reading the news. I hear politicians state that they "inherited this problem."

Now I hear that mentality bleeding from politicians to the military ranks. Who's next? The CEO's? The teachers? The children?

In Sunday school class, I heard a discussion that if your parents were in credit card debt when they pass away, that most states can put a lien on all property (the inheritance) until the debts are paid. Therefore, the children inherit the debt of the parents.

I moved into a rental home in January. When we moved in, the carpets looked clean. But as we've lived in it now for five months, stains have started appearing. Not that we've done anything, but it must have been old stains that were cleaned that are resurfacing. Now what are we to do? Blame the previous tenant?

The way I see it, whenever something is passed from one person to the next, we get all the inheritance--the good, the bad and the ugly. But instead of blaming the person before us for the bad, how can we solve the problem? What do we want to pass to the next person to inherit?

In order to be a problem solver, we need wisdom. Wisdom comes from the Lord. Scripture is clear about if any of us are lacking it, we can simply ask and we'll be given it--generously. (James 1:5)

I do not want to live with stains in the carpet, even though technically, it's not my carpet and I did not cause the problem. Therefore, instead of complaining about the carpet, I'm seeking wisdom in carpet cleaning solutions.

Whether we've inherited dirty carpet, debt, or a myriad of other problems with the good, we must seek wisdom from the One who has it all. God knows how to solve our inherited problems.

Called to Speak

2010-06-18T11:25:00.003-05:00

How do you know if you're called to be a speaker?

The answer looks different for each one of us. Yet, inside the soul of a speaker lies a burning desire that cannot be denied.

For me, I remember the days of my childhood when I wanted to play school with my friends. I always wanted the role of teacher. At the end of the school year, teachers would throw away books no longer needed for the classroom. It grieved me to see books in the trash, so I collected these unwanted books for my play classroom. Not many of my friends wanted to play school during the summer, so I set up my dolls as students. They were the perfect students and, of course, I was the perfect teacher.

To read the rest of my post, hop over to StepUP Writing and Speaking.

The First Weekend of Summer

2010-05-28T17:06:00.002-05:00

Most of us equate the Memorial Day weekend to the beginning of summer. Family gatherings. Grilling. Watermelon. Camping. Although the weather is warm [or hot depending on where you live], summer doesn’t actually begin until June 21. But we choose to start summer anyway.

But while we're getting together this weekend with our loved ones, let's pause to remember why Memorial Day, a federal holiday, was established.

Other than scheduling a federal holiday on the last Monday of May so those employees can have a long weekend, this day is to remember those who have died in the line of military service.

So many lives have been given voluntarily for our freedoms. Freedom is not free. It cost soldiers their lives. Their loved ones an empty hole in their hearts and homes.

I hope you will take a moment to remember the fallen soldiers on Monday. Set aside a few minutes to lift up a prayer for their families.

In tribute and to help us remember, I'll leave you with Darryl Worley's song, "Have You Forgotten?" Please take three minutes to watch and listen.

Rental Realty

2010-05-24T03:00:00.001-05:00

I ama sojourner on the earth; hide not your commandments from me! ~~Psalm 119:19 ESV

For more years of my adult life, my husband and I owned property. But since we moved, we decided to rent to become more familiar with the area.

This has been a difficult adjustment. Four months into this house and it still does not feel like a home to me. Changes I would make if it were my own, I can't make because it is not my own.

Then I remember the Scripture where God told Abram to take his wife and go to a land. They picked up their belongings and lived in the land for years in tents. It was all temporary. When Sarah died, Abraham asked to purchase a piece of property where they lived as sojourners all those years.

So though I've been in this house for four months, I still don’t know where to hang all the pictures. I still am not sure where to put certain pieces of furniture. I still don’t know how to really feel at home. Perhaps, it's to help remind me that my life on earth is only temporary.

We're only sojourners in this land. Jesus promised to go build a place for us-- a permanent home for us. All we have on this earth is temporary. We're just renting realty for now.

Out of Humiliation

2010-05-10T07:14:00.003-05:00

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. ~~Philippians 2:3-4 NIV

I never knew hard work until I became a mother. It's the one job that never has time off.

Sometimes the emotional turmoil of my role as a mom attempts to take a toil at me. The demands place on one person at times can be overwhelming.

The dynamics in our household do not always allow for our family to be together, even on holidays. Yesterday's Mother's Day was one of those days. I woke up, prepared to go to church. But as I'm driving off by myself, I pulled over because the tears filled my eyes.

How can I walk into church alone on Mother's Day. Everyone greeting mothers with "Happy Mother's Day." I didn’t feel happy and I couldn’t go on, pretending.

I called a friend who shared with me her perspective on the situation. I thank God she didn’t coddle me. She told me straight out from her own experience that sometimes expectations are set up are from selfish desires.

Ouch. The truth hit me smack dab in the face.

Now slapped with the truth, some sense had been knocked into my selfish brain. I started thanking God that I have a healthy family. It no longer mattered if they were with me at church because I thanked God I have a family.

Already late for my church, I decided to drive to a nearby church that I wanted to visit but had not had the opportunity. Yesterday's guest speaker was Jim Caviezel, the actor who portrayed Jesus in The Passion of Christ.

Caviezel shared a statement that stood out to me, "Out of humiliation comes humility and that's where God wants us--to be humble."

Out of my perceived humiliation, I let go of the false expectations of my family serving me on Mother's Day. I chose to serve them and it made me glad to do so.

What is God's Will for Me?

2010-05-07T07:10:00.005-05:00

This morning I woke up and asked the Lord, "What is Your will for me today?"

I opened up my web browser to Biblegateway.com and this is the verse of the day today:

“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

I share with you, that I felt like God spoke directly to me today. Now grant it, I asked wondering how to prioritize my to-do list. But I received three things to put at the top of my to-do's this morning.

First, be joyful. I admit, this week I've been battling the blues. Nothing bad, but not anything to be overly excited about. But God's will in Christ is for me to be joyful, so I'll focus on the things today that bring me joy. Not the things that rob me of the joy God's given to me.

Second, pray continually. I like to get up early, find my cozy spot on on the sofa before anyone else wakes up, have my Bible and journal and pray. But I cannot stay there all day praying. I think this means to pray as I do. I had a housekeeper once who taught me how to pray at home. I worked at the time and when I came home for lunch I asked her to pray for me. She showed me she prayed for me all day. She prayed as she washed the dishes; she prayed as she ironed the clothes, as she made the bed, and so on. I can do that today.

Third, give thanks in all circumstances. Not all my situations are ideal in my mind, but I have so much in which to be thankful. I need to list those things and keep giving thanks to God for them.

That's my God's will for me today as it clearly states in His Word, "for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." Can it be any clearer than that?

National Day of Prayer

2010-05-06T07:27:00.003-05:00

I hope everyone will take a few moments today to pray for our nation. Also we can pray for one another. Through the day, I'll be praying for our nation and others. Please feel free to leave a prayer request if you like.

This morning as I read blogs, Lysa TerKeurst had a list of prayer scriptures. I've listed the scriptures below.

"…The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective" (James 5:16).

"Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always" (1 Chronicles 16:11).

"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land" (2 Chronicles 7:14).

"My voice You shall hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning I will direct my prayer to You, and I will look up" (Psalm 5:3).

"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him" (Matthew 6:5-8).

"Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful" (Colossians 4:2).

"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

"And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints" (Ephesians 6:18).

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7).

"I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing" (1 Timothy 2:8).

Shut My Mouth

2010-05-03T09:30:00.003-05:00

"but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison" (James 3:8, ESV).

I spent the past weekend at the baseball park. Living in West Texas, strong winds occasionally blow. Wind alone may not be so bad, but the barren lands of the West has nothing but dust. So with the gusts, comes the dirt.

While watching the games, I desired to chat with other team mom's. Yet, it seemed as though every time I wanted to speak, a blast of wind came along with the dirt. If I opened my mouth, it would fill up with dirt.

That game was a pretty quiet game other than occasional cheers from the stands. But it was a not only a difficult game for the players, but a difficult game for me. Going to the games is my social time. The blowing dust put a damper on my visiting hours.

I realized after the game that perhaps I can learn from the blowing dust to keep my mouth shut. Sometimes talking too much can seem harmless, but can lead to more trouble.

James tells us in how the tongue "is a restless evil, full of deadly poison." With our tongues, we can say things that will hurt other people.

Each time I opened my mouth during the gusts, I ate dust. I ended up having to wash out my mouth quite often. It reminded me how my mother used to say to me when I mouthed off to her, "Do you want me to wash your mouth out with soap?"

After speaking unkind words, it will leave the taste of dust in our mouths. We have to wash out our mouths by repentance.

I can and shall learn to shut my mouth when necessary so I hopefully I won't have to eat anymore dirt.

In the Mind

2010-04-26T03:25:00.000-05:00

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ~~ Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

Have you ever noticed that the worst thoughts come when least expected? Maybe I'm the only one like that.

My mind tends to lean toward worrying about situations I have absolutely no control over. I confess--I have worried about decisions my husband will make. I worry about my adult son. I worry about my children's future. I worry about my friend who is battling cancer. None of my anxiety can solve any of those problems.

Therefore, I decided I had to be more intentional with my thoughts. Like pulling the weeds that pop up in the garden, I must remove the ungodly thoughts from my mind. But as in the garden, it's not enough just to remove the weeds. Something else must be planted in its place or the weeds will come right back. Thoughts that are removed from the mind will come right back if not replaced with other thoughts.

To go to work in the garden of my mind, I decided to take God's word and speak it out loud to myself when unacceptable thoughts come my way. I started with the key scripture above. I broke it down into the phrases separated by commas.

"Do not be anxious about anything." Okay, I'm not to be anxious about this situation (with my husband or my children). So now what?

"But in everything." Everything? That means all things or situations.

"By prayer and petition." I will tell the Lord everything on my heart and mind. He knows it anyway, so I might as well just say it all to Him.

"With thanksgiving." I have to stop and count my blessings. I have so much to be thankful for starting with Salvation through Jesus, forgiveness of my sins, my family, our health, our provisions and so much more.

"Present your requests to God." I ask Him for what I want to happen and then trust Him to give the answer He desires. I must realize I can make my requests, but need to trust He will answer in a manner that is best. I have to accept it may not be the way I want it.

After I went through this step by step process this past week, I experienced the peace of God in my mind. Have the circumstances around me changed? No. But my mind is protected by the word of God. His peace guards me.

I will continue to allow God's peace to protect my heart and mind this week by applying His word to my life. What's in your mind?

Volcanic Eruption

2010-04-19T07:45:00.000-05:00

Stop being angry! Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper— it only leads to harm. ~~Psalm 37:8 NLT

The Iceland volcano is spitting out ash 30,000 feet into the air. It has diverted lots of European travel plans. All travelers face the same predicament whether the travel is for business or pleasure. Millions of people lives have been affected by the eruption.

Sometimes I feel like my emotions stir around on the inside of me. Then when the right catalyst comes along, they spew out. It could be tears, anger, joy or even something I can't identify. But when the emotion of anger is there, it is like the volcano ready to explode.

But what comes out of me can be like the ash cloud over Europe. My emotional display impacts those who are in my life. It covers them up with a dark cloud and hinders their lives.

Ephesians 4:26 states, “don’t sin by letting anger control you" (NLT). We can fall into sin with anger. I have certainly been there. I have said hurtful words that I cant take back. I have made wrong decisions out of anger.

The key scripture this morning states that losing our temper leads to harm. Acting out in anger hurts others in our lives. Once it's out there, it cannot be taken back.

Just as there is not anyway to collect the debris from the volcano so people's lives can return to normal, once a hurtful action has been displayed, it cannot be taken back. Forgiven, yes. Undone, no.

Jesus felt every emotion we have. He's mastered his emotions instead of allowing his emotions to master him. Unlike the earth's eruptions, we can keep our emotions from exploding. We can exercise self-control.

Some self-control techniques I've learned to use are not responding to a situation until the emotions have had time to subside. This gives me time to think more clearly and rationally. Not having an immediate response also gives me more time to pray about the situation. Of course, not all circumstances allow for time. If possible, seeking godly counsel helps too.

We can control anger and not explode like a volcano. Or else we'll impact people's lives in a way that can lead to harm.

In This World

2010-04-12T13:23:00.006-05:00

I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. ~~ John 17:14-15 (NIV)

Moving to the city has its advantages and disadvantages. Even my twelve-year-old son recognized differences from the small town environment and the city. The other day he said, "There is a lot more to do in the city and a lot more choices, but it takes a lot longer to get there."

The other day I headed to the Lifeway Christian Book store. I came up to a corner where panhandlers normally work. At the stop light I saw a gentleman simply handing out postcards with information on it. As he approached my vehicle, I lowered the window just a bit. He slid the card through the window and I was appalled to see a perfectly airbrushed woman on the high-gloss card.

I raised my voice, "I don’t want that!"

He asked, "You don’t?"

"No, I don’t. Take it and go on."

Stunned. I couldn’t believe what just happened.

Throughout the city, gentleman's clubs dot most of the major the streets. The card the man wanted to hand me advertised the club just down the street from the Christian book store. Definitely something we did not see in a small town.

I asked the Lord, "How do I deal with this difference?" Immediately the thought of Daniel popped into my mind. Daniel, a young man in his youth when Jerusalem was taken captive by Babylon. He learned to live in a pagan culture without conforming to it.

We must be able to live where the Lord placed us without conforming to the world. It doesn’t take a seminary degree to see the sinful nature around in our communities. But Jesus has us here to be a light to the world living in darkness.

It is comforting to know that Jesus prayed for us. He knew that the world would hate us. But he didn’t pray that we be taken out of this world as soon as we accept Him as Savior. No, he prayed that we be protected from the evil one.

We're here in this world for the time God appointed for us. We do not have to conform to the world; we're to be a light while we are in this world.

My Redeemer Lives

2010-04-05T07:58:00.002-05:00

I'm at a loss for words this day. Today I share this song that ministers.

May we know that our Redeemer lives and works in our lives today!

What We Don't See

2010-04-02T14:44:00.002-05:00

What do you see around you?

At times we all experience problems. Problems help us grow as James wrote in his epistle, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything " (James 1:2-4, NIV).

What we don’t see is how God develops our character through the trials and problems we face.

As we celebrate the resurrection this weekend, let's remember that the disciples faced trials of their faith as Jesus faced His execution. Peter denied Jesus three times. The others ran and hid.

What the disciples saw was not what they expected. They expected an earthly king to overthrow the Roman empire. But the hope they held onto, they saw crucified on the cross on that Passover evening. They knew the promise, but it was not fulfilled as they expected.

I confess, I have received promises from the Lord and set up expectations in my mind about how those promises would be fulfilled. Then only to feel disappointed about what I saw, just as the disciples felt grief the day their Lord and Savior was brutally crucified on Calgary.

After the crucifixion, the disciples did not know what to do. So they did nothing, but then the good news came three days later. Jesus is alive and conquered death and the grave!

What we see is not always the ultimate outcome just as the death of Jesus was not final. In the times that I felt crushed because of what I saw, if I just sat in prayer and waited on the Lord, the promised result came. But 98 percent of the time, it never came the way I imagined like the King of kings did not come the way the disciples imagined.

Through Jesus we have life because He conquered death. What we see around us is temporary, but we will live in an eternal state after death. Do we live by what we see? Or do we walk by faith in what we don’t see?

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. ~~ Hebrews 11:1

How to Avoid Transplant Shock

2010-03-29T14:26:00.002-05:00

I recently moved & I wrote about how I learned to overcome the shock at Take Root and Write. Here's a portion of it.

Last year I wrote about Overcoming Transplant Shock which addressed the shock that new believers in Christ face when making the decision to leave the ways of the world behind to follow Christ. Yet believers face times in their lives when the Lord physically moves them.

When God leads a person to move from one location to another, a believer needs to be Totally Transplanted in Christ for the transition. A tree that has been transplanted can experience stress-related problems that can kill it called "transplant shock." When tree roots are cut for moving, it makes the tree vulnerable as it loses a bulk of its root system. Even after being placed in new soil, it is susceptible to diseases, insects, drought, and other issues.

What are some steps we can take to avoid transplant shock?

To read the rest of this article, click here.

Inquire of the Lord

2010-03-22T09:04:00.001-05:00

The men of Israel sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the LORD. Then Joshua made a treaty of peace with them to let them live, and the leaders of the assembly ratified it by oath. ~~ Joshua 9:14-15 NIV

How many times have each of us made a decision to regret it later? Oh my! I have so many times that I wish there was an "undo" button on life like there is in Microsoft Word. My husband and I have made decisions without seeking the Lord and it has cost us--both financially and emotionally.

Well scripture is full of these types of examples as well. Joshua followed Moses in leadership of the nation of Israel. He led them into the promised land--the land flowing with milk and honey. The Lord told him through Moses that He gave them the land. Joshua followed the Lord's commands and saw success in Jericho. (Joshua 6)

Then after cleaning the sin out of the camp, Joshua led the army of Israel to defeat the city of Ai. After this victory, Joshua set up an altar to the Lord and worshiped the Lord by reading to the whole congregation the Book of the Law. (Joshua 7 and 8)

After conquering two cities, word spread all throughout the land about Joshua and the Israelites. Many of the inhabitants planned to go to war with the Israelites, but the people of Gibeon planned a ruse against them. These people intentionally planned to deceive Joshua by wearing old and worn out clothes, taking dry and molded break, and old wine skins on their three day journey to meet Joshua.

When the people of Gibeon met with Joshua, they lied and said when they left the bread was fresh, the wineskins were new and their clothes were new, but now worn out from the long journey. They told Joshua they heard about their fame because of the Lord their God. They sought to have a peace treaty with Israel.

Based on what the men of Israel saw, they believed the men of Gibeon. Therefore, they entered into a peace treaty with them. Then only three days later the Israelites learned that the Gibeonites were neighbors with them. (Joshua 9)

After experiencing success, we can be deceived into believing something is good for us. We've experienced some really convincing sales calls that sounded really enticing. Yes, we've spent too much money on products or memberships that we did not need that led to remorse.

We've learned through experience that we need to inquire of the Lord before making decisions. I've been learning that that offer will still be available. If not, then perhaps it was not a deal that I needed anyway.

I am starting to realize that it is more beneficial to inquire of and wait on the Lord than to rush into a decision that will lead to regrets later. We can take time to inquire of the Lord.

God's Unconditional Love

2010-03-15T09:45:00.004-05:00

God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should
change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not
fulfill? ~~ Numbers 23:19 NIV

God is the sovereign ruler over the heavens and the earth. Yesterday, I attended a church service and heard a powerful message. To emphasize one of the points of the message, the pastor stated, "We're loved by God no matter what we do."

The words, we're loved by God no matter what just resonated in my being. I confess feeling fear of rejection because I say the wrong thing, act the wrong way or do not purchase and wear designer clothing has been a way of life for me.

But God is not a man that he will reject me or anyone else who comes to Him through Jesus Christ. His word is His promise to us. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16, NIV).

He loves us so much that He gave His one and only Son so we who believe will not perish but have everlasting life. He promised to love us no matter what.

When we stumble and fall by trying our own way, He still loves us. I saw that as I read through the book of Numbers. God delivered the Israelites from the Egyptian slavery. But when they were in the wilderness, they forgot about what God had done. They grumbled and complained against Moses and God.

Yet, when Balak asked Balaam to curse the Israelites, God stopped it. "But God said to Balaam, 'Do not go with them. You must not put a curse on those people, because they are blessed'" (Numbers 22:12, NIV).

God's people are blessed, even when they sin because God loves us. "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8, NIV).

Yes, we sin, but that does not stop God's love for us. His love is unconditional. And we're loved by God no matter what we do. We do not have to fear. I do not have to fear for God will not reject me. Yesterday, I felt he acceptance of me in spite of what I've done.

First John 1:9 states, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness" (NIV).

God does not lie or change His mind. His promises are true and He forgives. I know for I experience His mercies every day. His love is unconditional. Please share how you have experienced His unconditional love.

Do You Remember?

2010-03-01T12:41:00.001-06:00

The LORD said to Moses, "Speak to the Israelites and say to them: 'Throughout the generations to come you are to make tassels on the corners of your garments, with a blue cord on each tassel. You will have these tassels to look at and so you will remember all the commands of the LORD, that you may obey them and not prostitute yourselves by going after the lusts of your own hearts and eyes. Then you will remember to obey all my commands and will be consecrated to your God. ~~ Numbers 15:37-40, NIV

This past weekend, my son played in baseball tournaments. We paid for him to play in the tournament. We paid the umpires, and we paid park entrance fees to see the tournament.

The park personnel were kind enough to allow re-entry the same day if you left for a while as long as you allowed them to stamp your forearm. The stamp was necessary as so many people came and went, the gate attendant could not remember every face.

Sometimes we can’t remember everything either. And it seems to be less I remember the older I turn. Like the stamp reminded the attendant that I already paid the entry fee, we need reminders.

To help me remember, I write my to-do lists on a calendar. Or I’ll set alarms in my cell phone. But I have to remember to write it down or set the alarm, otherwise I probably forget.

The Lord realized that we have a short memory span. He told Moses a long time ago to have all the Israelites throughout all generations to place a blue cord on each corner tassel of their garment.

The garment referred to is called the prayer shawl, or tallit. The cloth has four corners with the tassels hanging off each corner. The Hebrew people were instructed to tie a blue cord on each tassel to remember the commands of the Lord.

Since stone carved copies of the commandments were not available for every household, the people memorized the commands of the Lord using the memory triggers such as the cords on the prayer shawl.

Today the Bible is readily available in most American homes. And it is definitely available online and through the iPhones. Therefore it is easily accessible. Though we have God’s word available to us, we’re still commanded to hide His word in our hearts so we won’t sin against Him. (Psalm 119:11)

I confess, I do not memorize enough scripture. I used to carry around 3X5 cards with scriptures on them to help me. But I gave those cards away.

I know this, that if I do not consistently read the Word of God and memorize scripture, I sin much more easily. I don’t always remember God’s word and commands to me. I need the stamp or the blue tassel or something else to help me remember.

What do you to help you remember?

Too Much

2010-02-22T04:00:00.000-06:00

When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent. ~~ Proverbs 10:19 ESV

The other night at dinner, my husband poured too much sauce on his plate for his meat. “Oh, that’s too much!”

But what do you do when you pour too much on your plate? Pouring it back in the bottle is not a good solution as there is already other food on the plate. Besides, the openings to most sauce bottles are too small to funnel back the original contents.

We looked at each other and we both had the same thought. Pouring too much sauce on the plate is like saying too many words. You can’t put it back.

Sometimes we may say things without thinking. Those words may cause hurt, discouragement or anger. There have been times I tried to comfort a friend in need. When I kept talking I eventually said something that wounded the soul instead of bringing encouragement.

Jesus made it very clear what will happen with our words in Matthew 12:36-37, “I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned" (ESV).

Every word – we will be held accountable for every word that comes out of our mouths. Like the sauce, we can not pour those words back into our mouths and minds.

We must practice restraint. When pouring ketchup on the plate, we taught our children to use just a little bit. They can get more if needed, but too much will go to waste. To emphasize our point, we told them we would not buy any more until the next scheduled grocery shopping trip. They had to learn to manage what was in the bottle.

We too must learn to manage the words that come out of our mouths. Start with just a little and add more as led by the Holy Spirit.

If we speak too much, then it will surely lead to transgressions. We’ll be prudent not to say too much.

Recently a particular situation has bothered me. I wanted to talk about it over and over with my husband. When I became more frustrated that he didn’t want to have this conversation, he finally told me that talking about it too much could lead to gossip. He’s right.

Therefore, this week I’m going to work on saying less and praying more. What suggestions do you have about not saying too much?

Where's Your Treasure?

2010-02-15T15:13:00.002-06:00

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” ~~ Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV)

Last month we moved across the state of Texas. In preparation for the move, we cleaned out the attic and storage shed.

What did we discover? Trash! What we put away to keep for later became obsolete, worn out, and utterly useless garbage.

It reminded me of the scripture reference above. Why did I buy so much junk? It may be fun for a little while, but I must realize it is not to keep forever. The things we buy on this earth will wear out and decay. Or especially in the area of technology, become obsolete.

Cameras that were state of the art digital cameras in the 1990’s, we can no longer use as 3 ¼ in floppy disks are not available today. But yet I kept it. For what?

The scripture said not to store up treasures on earth. I caught a glimpse of why we’re not to store up treasures on earth. They do wear out, collect dust and clutter our homes. We took several trailer loads of “stored up treasures” to the garbage dump before we moved.

If I take an honest assessment of the unpacked boxes in the garage, more garbage is probably stored up.

But what am I to do? As I pondered the answer “but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven. . .” what does that mean? Several thoughts come to my mind, but the first being that I shouldn’t become too attached to my stuff.

Then I thought of some practical solutions to avoid storing up too much stuff:

Once worn out or broken, throw it away. Things we’ve kept saying we’ll fix it later never get fixed.
Give away an item once I’m no longer using it so someone else can enjoy it before it wears out or becomes obsolete
Not put so much emphasis on buying stuff, but giving more to advance the work of the kingdom of God. There are many charitable organizations that count on free will contributions to function. Perhaps when I want to make an impulse purchase, I can deny myself that item and send the money to charity.

What about you? What ideas do you have to share about how to store up treasure in heaven and not on earth?

Esperanza -- Hope

2010-02-08T15:07:00.002-06:00

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. ~~ Hebrews 11:1

Two years ago, my friends Richard and Debra, planted from seed an esperanza plant. One time upon my visit to their home, they gifted to me the little seedling plant. I kept it and watered it.

Shortly upon receiving the plant, Debra gave me the news that Richard had colon cancer. His tumor was so large the medical team started him with radiation for they could not perform surgery until the tumor had been shrunk.

After receiving that news, I prayed for Richard every day I watered the little plant. Sometimes I’d see the plant wilting and I felt led to pray for Richard even more. I felt like God gave me the plant as a prayer prompt for Richard.

Since we lived in different cities, Debra would call and give me updates when she could. But the calls grew farther apart, but I kept on praying for Richard. The plant kept growing until it needed a new pot as the roots were becoming cramped. I kept asking the Lord if this was a sign that Richard was doing well. I hoped it was.

Upon researching a little bit of information about this particular plant, I learned the Spanish word, esperanza means hope in English. So I kept my hope alive for Richard’s health by standing on God’s word and watching the “hope” plant.

Then the large pot became too small for the growing roots. We transplanted it in the ground. Afterwards, the plant bloomed with such pretty yellow blossoms. I kept hoping that was a sign from God that Richard was doing well as I kept praying for him and Debra.

When we received word that we were moving from our home to another city, I became so focused on packing and moving that I forgot about the plant. Our home is now under contract with a new owner and chances are I’ll never see that plant again.

But God is soooo good. I received an email from Debra that Richard’s doctors declared him cancer-free! Praise the Lord! So at the same time that I am no longer able to see the plant and remember to pray, Richard received his healing from the Lord confirmed by his medical team.

There is always hope through faith in Jesus Christ.

Goodbyes Are Not Forever

2010-02-01T09:41:00.003-06:00

Goodbyes are not forever. Goodbyes are not the end. They simply mean I'll miss you, Until we meet again! ~~ author unknown

Moving from one city to another can be taxing on the physical body as well as the emotional. I am so thankful that my hope and trust is in the Lord for I wouldn’t have known how to handle such a large move as this.

It’s been 21 years since I’ve moved. Back then, all I had were clothes and a few possessions. It took two large U-Haul trucks to move our possessions across the state of Texas. Abraham had donkeys and I couldn’t imagine how many donkeys and days it took him.

I’ve spent the last two months packing and then unpacking. We’re finally into a home with most aspects of it functioning (with a garage full of boxes that we’re not even sure what’s inside them—if that says anything). We have too much stuff!

While the stuff took a physical toll on us, the emotional toll tugged at me for those that I left. I’m so thankful for unlimited long distance, skype, email, facebook and texting. Though I can no longer physically see those I’ve bonded with over the past years, it is so much easier to keep in touch these days. With these technological advances, the distance has shortened. Twenty-one years ago, these techy gadgets were not available.

Thank God I can stay in touch with all of you! I’ll miss you my dear friends, but we will meet again. Stay in touch!

Now that things have settled a bit for me and a regular routine is starting to take shape, I should be back to my weekly postings. Thank you for all your prayers, comments, emails, and FB updates through this transition!

All Their Possessions

2010-01-04T08:58:00.003-06:00

And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother’s son, and all their possessions that they had gathered, and the people that they had acquired in Haran, and they set out to go to the land of Canaan. ~~ Genesis 12:5 ESV

Abram lived in Haran with his father, Terah, and all this extended family for years. The Bible does not say how long they lived in Haran, but Terah lived to be 205 years old. After Terah’s death, the Lord instructed Abram to leave the land he knew for a long time and to go to a place that God showed him. By faith, Abram packed all the possessions he gathered over the years and departed from the land as the Lord instructed.

This morning as I read from Genesis, the phrase “and all their possessions they had gathered” stood out to me. I suppose I took notice of it as I realize how many possessions I’ve gathered over the past 21 years in the last few weeks.

The Lord, who determines the times and places we shall live (Acts 17:26), has opened the opportunity for us to move to a city after living for 21 years in a small community. We are sorting through what to keep and what to throw away. And yes, we’re realizing what trash collectors we had become. All the “we can fix this later” projects have been tossed away.

I wonder how many U-Haul camels Abram rented. We’re striving to ensure that all the possessions we’ve gathered fit in one U-Haul truck. And I’m so thankful we do not have to move with camels as we will be moving two cats and one dog.

With the arrival of a new year, my family is embarking on a new adventure. I will miss all that is familiar to me, especially the friendships that have been made. I am also thankful that technology makes it much easier to stay in touch today. I hope that all of my dear friends will stay in contact with me. I also look forward to meeting new people.

My posts will be sporadic or perhaps not at all during this transition. Lord willing, I’ll return to regular blog posts after the move of all the possessions I have gathered is completed.

Happy New Year to all of you!!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

2009-12-21T07:54:00.002-06:00

⁸And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. ⁹An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. ¹⁰But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. ¹¹Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ^a]">[a] the Lord. ¹²This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
¹³Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
¹⁴"Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."
¹⁵When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."
¹⁶So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. ¹⁷When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, ¹⁸and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. ¹⁹But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. ²⁰The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. ~~ Luke 2:8-20

Like the shepherds, we can glorify & praise God for all the things we have seen and heard regarding Jesus who lives today in our hearts.

I'll return to the blog in January. I pray each of you have a very blessed Christmas and New Year.

What We Don't See

2009-12-14T09:27:00.003-06:00

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. ~~ Hebrews 11:1 NIV

For the past week or so, the skies in south Texas have been gray. The gray clouds create a barrier between us and the sun. Without the direct sunshine, it can bring on the winter blues. The medical field has studied seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In the studies they conclude that SAD may be associated by the amount of sunlight.

During the winter months, the days are shorter. Often the changes in weather also cause the day to be darker with clouds lingering around all day long. This combination can cause a change in the chemicals in the brain bringing on the winter blues.

The most common form of treatment according to eMedicineHealth.com is to get outside for a minimum of 30 minutes each day and to increase the indoor artificial lighting.

Sometimes, situations in our life hinder us from seeing the Son. The circumstances may cloud our vision where we do not see clearly. Often times, we know in our minds that the Son is on the other side, but we become blue not being able to feel the Son.

Like with the SAD, we need to get outside more. We can get outside our point of view. We choose our thoughts and we can redirect our attention to meeting the needs of someone else during the times we feel stuck under a blanket of clouds.

Though the clouds hinder our view of the sunshine, we know the sun is above the clouds. Most of us have flown on a cloudy day. When the plan rises above the clouds, we can see the sun, so we know it is there.

In our situations, we know the Son is there. He is working on our behalf on the other side of our clouded vision. He knows our prayers and petitions. Let’s get outside ourselves and read the Word to fill our lives with His light. We can trust in Him even though it is what we don’t see.

By God's Grace and for His Glory

2009-12-07T08:42:00.003-06:00

By God’s grace, He allowed me to travel and visit a precious friend in the hospital who had surgery last week. What I saw is amazing witness for God’s glory.

Things did not go as hoped and prayed for, but God is in control of all circumstances. Mary’s spirit is strong and she trusts completely in God and what He is doing in and through her life.

A portion of the surgery was not as successful as hoped. They planned to remove all the cancer, but they found some more cancer. She’s been advised she has an aggressive type of cancer. She will be taking six rounds of chemo after being released from the hospital over the next four months. Her recovery time will be much longer than hoped.

The plastic surgeon, who claimed he never had a case fail, is disappointed in the results for he is used to success. Charles, Mary’s husband, informed me the plastic surgeon came to them and apologized. The surgeon doesn’t understand why this happened to them because they are good people. The surgeon said he had patients so mean and the surgery worked, but Charles and Mary are good people. This surgeon lamented with Charles and Mary over what appears to be a failure. Yet, Charles had the opportunity to sit down with this surgeon and explain to him about the Lord, Jesus and that things work out quoting Romans 8:28.

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.

Charles and Mary are praying for the salvation of this doctor and thanking God for the opportunity to witness to him. He visits Mary more often than the standard protocol.

Also, the Lord has sent ministering servants to Charles for he is with Mary alone without family or friends. Christian people he does not know have come to visit him. Yet the bond of fellowship is strong from the people the Lord sent. It was encouraging to hear how the Lord looks after His people as He sent men to Charles to encourage and refresh his spirit and pray with them while at the hospital.

Today Charles and Mary will learn when she will be released to come home. It is a testimony of faith to see the couple who loves the Lord, praising Him for opportunities in the midst of pain. Never once did I hear my friend cry, “Why God?” By God’s grace, Mary is facing her trial with strength and dignity with the glory of the Lord all over her.

I’m thankful I got to hear and witness the testimony from Charles and Mary in the midst of this trial. By God’s grace and for His glory, I trust the Lord has some mighty plans for their lives when they pass this test.

Prayers for Mary, Charles and the salvation of the doctor are appreciated.

Sobered Up

2009-11-30T05:48:00.003-06:00

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. ~~ Romans 12:3 NIV

I usually keep a clean house. I have a cleaning routine that I go through each week for each room of the house in order to maintain a state of cleanliness.

I thought that if cleanliness is next to godliness then I’m doing alright. I felt as I had conquered an area of my life—housekeeping. I have plenty of other areas to work on by now.

So those were my thoughts until this past week when the Lord sobered me up. My husband and I started “fall” cleaning so we can prepare our house to put on the market as he’s hoping for a transfer soon. Part of this process meant we packed up clutter and moved excess belongings to storage. We also painted a few walls to brighten things up.

In the process of cleaning, I had the vacuum cleaner out with an extension hose to clean the collected dust off of the ceiling fan. As I stepped back and looked, I saw dirt stuck in the “popcorn” texture of the ceiling paint, so I used the soft brush on the end of the vacuum extension and cleaned the dirt off the ceiling around the ceiling fan. I thought what a great job I’ve done.

But then, as I prepared to paint the walls, my husband stood at another place in the room and looked at the ceiling and said, “Now you can see the ceiling around the ceiling fan is white, but the rest of the ceiling is brown.”

I realized that even though I regularly picked up items, dusted the furniture, and vacuumed the floors, I never cleaned the ceiling. I confess, I do not normally look up to clean. With my husband’s help, it took about an hour to clean off the ceiling, little by little with the small brush attachment.

I felt the Lord sobered my judgment of myself through this experience. I’m not as good as a housekeeper as I thought I was. It took a lot of work to clean out our house this week. Through the house cleaning process, I realized I deceived myself.

If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. ~~Galatians 6:3 NIV

Deceit can creep in easily. I thank the Lord, He sobered me up. All that I have and all I do comes from Him. To Him be the glory!

Give Thanks

2009-11-26T06:52:00.002-06:00

Praise the LORD. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. ~~Psalm 106:1

Happy Thanksgiving! May all of you be blessed today beyond imagination. We all have something to be thankful for on this one day of the year set aside in America to be thankful for our God is good. His love endures forever.

I am thankful that our Lord provided a way for us to not suffer an eternal death by sending His Son, Jesus Christ.

I am thankful that we have the Word of God to read, learn and grow in the truth that sets us free in Christ our Lord.

I am thankful for family and friends who keep me on the right path of growing in the Lord.

There are so many things I can list to be thankful for on this Thanksgiving Day. Please share some of what you're thankful for today.

Blessings in Christ!

Open My Eyes

2009-11-16T05:45:00.003-06:00

And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. Andhe vanished from their sight. ~~Luke 24:31 ESV

Have you ever cried out, “I just don’t understand?” Sometimes events unfold right in front of us and we do not understand the meaning of it.

"O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?" And beginning withMoses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. (Luke 24:25-27 ESV)

For Our Veterans

2009-11-11T12:54:00.003-06:00

I want to personally thank our veterans & service members for their faithful service to our country. It is your service and dedication that keeps us free. Thank you.

For the Joy

2009-11-09T06:00:00.000-06:00

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. ~~ James 1:2-4 ESV

Last week I started a new exercise routine. Based on the results of a friend from church, I purchased a Jillian Michaels video. Since I very seldom watch television, I learned that she is the personal trainer on The Biggest Loser. And she’s known for getting results and that’s what I’m seeking—results.

Each workout in this video is only 20 minutes. When I started this workout last week, 20 minutes felt like a torture. I thought I was fit as I’m used to walking and jogging each morning. But I realized I haven’t really been working out after the first few days of this video. My body has been going through stress.

“We want your body to change as quickly as possible. In order to do that, we have to put stress on it. That’s how things change. By putting stress on your body, it’s going to adapt,” Jillian states as the workout really gets going.

Since the first time I heard those words “We have to put stress on it. That’s how things change,” it has resonated in my mind over and over again. Then in Sunday School we had a lesson on James 1:2-4 and thoughts started clicking in my mind.

If we’re too comfortable in a situation we’ll stay in it. Stress, trials, and tests all produce results. The various kinds of trials we face produces steadfastness, which according to dictionary.com means “unwavering, as resolution, faith, adherence, etc., firmly established, as an institution or a state of affairs, firmly fixed in place or position.”

We need to be firmly fixed in the Word of God through Jesus Christ. That makes us firmly established. Then steadfastness will work into us the perfection—the work that God started in us which He will complete. (Phil. 1:6) Then we’ll lack nothing because of our faith.

I think I’m starting to see a glimpse of why James said, “Count it all joy.” We must go through a process. My muscles scream, “OUCH!” But they are under stress now so they will have to change and adapt to this new routine as I persevere with it. Later these muscles of mine will be in better shape.

Now as I face the trials in my life, I realize that the Lord uses the stress to produce endurance so I’ll be firmly fixed in Christ. We can’t always understand the “why am I going through this?” But we can trust in the One who increases our endurance so we can be perfected. Let’s endure and mature for the joy!

Do You Know What You're Asking For?

2009-11-02T10:45:00.002-06:00

Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to him. "Teacher," they said, "we want you to do for us whatever we ask."

"What do you want me to do for you?" he asked.

They replied, "Let one of us sit at your right and the other at your left in your glory."

"You don't know what you are asking," Jesus said. "Can you drink the cup I drink or be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?"

"We can," they answered. Jesus said to them, "You will drink the cup I drink and be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with, but to sit at my right or left is not for me to grant. These places belong to those for whom they have been prepared." ~~ Mark 10:35-40 NIV

“Mom, come outside and see what I found!”

I hurry through the house hearing some sense of urgency in Chase’s voice. As I step out through the glass door, I see the puppy.

“Mom, he followed me home while I was out riding my bike. Can I please keep him? It’s a boy, please.”

“That dog belongs to somebody and it’s so small it would need to be an inside dog. You can take care of him until we find the owner.”

“I promise I really will take care of him. Look he already likes me.”

Does my son really know what he’s asking for? I had him take care of the puppy that followed him home all through out the day, including cleaning up after its potty mess. He no longer was excited about keeping this dog.

Sometimes there are things in life that we think we really want. Naturally as humans, we want things, like a new puppy. But with those things comes something called – responsibility.

James and John asked Jesus to allow them to sit with Him in His glory. Jesus asked them if they could drink for the cup he would drink and be baptized with the baptism He had. They agreed they could. They thought it would be a great idea to have what Jesus had—glory. But Jesus told them that they did not know what they were asking for and they would drink from the cup and be baptized, but only the Father could decide where they sit.

Jesus suffered a death on the cross for the Father’s glory so that all men and women can be saved. Jesus asked James and John by asking if they could take the cup and the baptism which represented sufferings. They said they could and they did. James was the first apostle to be martyred by King Herod sword (See Acts 12:2). John was the last of the apostles to die, but he endured much tribulation and was placed in exile. Both of them suffered for the sake of Christ just as they asked.

When we ask for things, do we know what we’re asking? Once we receive it are we willing to see it through to the end? Whose glory are we seeking—our own or the Lord’s?

Chase allowed this puppy to follow him home, now he will take care of it until the owner can be found or it is placed in a home who wants it. He will need to see this through. When we ask the Lord for a thing, we need to be willing to see it through once He says yes. He will never give us more than we can bear.

Ask and it shall be given. But do you know what you’re asking for?

Hear His Voice

2009-10-26T06:00:00.003-05:00

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. ~~John 10:27 ESV

Children recognize the voice of their mother and fathers. I remember watching my boys when they were babies. I walked into the room talking and their heads turned toward me. I watched them as the watched me and listened to me talk to them. They cooed back to me as I held them in my lap and spoke to them.

Interestingly, on the flip side, I could recognize my baby’s cry out of all the other babies in the nursery. Or even when a group of children were playing together, I could hear the sound of my child’s voice in the group. The Lord gave parents an ability to distinguish their child from others.

I remember studying about zebras with my youngest last year when I homeschooled him. Each zebra has it’s own particular pattern of stripes. When the foal is born, the mother doesn’t let it see any other zebra’s except her until it can recognize the stripes and sound of it’s mother. Then she’ll let it wander in the group.

Jesus stated that He is the shepherd and we are the sheep. As His sheep, we recognize his voice. I do not know much about shepherding, but I gather that the shepherd spends much time with the sheep that they get to know his voice.

Are we spending enough time with our Shepherd that we know His voice? Voices can be deceptive. There are lots of voices vying for our attention. Competing with the Shepherd’s voice are the voices of others, our own voice and the voice of the enemy—the devil.

Why do we need to listen for the voice of our Good Shepherd, Jesus? He desires the best for us. As humans, our hearts are deceitful. We can fool ourselves into believing anything. And the enemy prowls around looking for someone to devour, so we must stand firm. Jesus is the Truth, the Way and the Life.

How do we listen to Him? First, I suggest reading the Bible daily for if we know what it says about matters, then we won’t be easily fooled. Second, I pray about everything asking the Lord for advice and answers. I pray about my schedule, which fruit to buy, if I should buy those pants or blouse. I pray before I take a test. I’m working at praying more before I spout out answers (as it does avert disagreements). And then I practice listening for His voice. Sometimes, it pops into my head as an idea or a thought. Other times, I’ll think of something, but dismiss it then to hear it on the radio, television or someone else later.

Our Lord speaks to us in a myriad of ways. If we spend time with Him then we will know His voice like our children know our voice and we know theirs. Take time daily to hear His voice.

Be Ready

2009-10-19T05:33:00.000-05:00

And while they were going to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was shut. ~~ Matthew 25:10 ESV

Since I started taking college classes again now that my son returned to school, I have learned that I must be more prepared and organized to keep our lives functioning properly. For classes, I must keep track of assignments and when they are due. For the Bible study I must set aside time in my week to prepare the lessons. For my home, I must create lists of what needs to be done. I’ve even implemented an organization system so I can track the order of tasks to prioritize my time efficiently so I can be ready.

In the above Scripture, Jesus told a parable about the ten virgins. Five were wise and five were foolish. The foolish ones failed to think things through to be ready for the bridegroom’s arrival. Granted, they did not know when He would arrive, but they knew he would come. Since they did not have the needed oil to light their lamps, the wise virgins instructed the foolish ones to go buy their own oil for if they shared, there would not be enough for all of them.

When we’re preparing, some things we just cannot share. When I must take an exam in college, I cannot share the grade of another student. I must prepare for myself to have my own grade. Just like I know when a test is scheduled, the virgins knew the bridegroom could come at anytime. The wise virgins could not share with them.

As a result, by the time the foolish virgins arrived at the door, it was shut. Just as some instructors will not allow students in the classroom once a test begins. They’re locked out and fail the exam. The foolish virgins were locked out and failed to enjoy the marriage feast.

The marriage feast discussed in this passage is the marriage supper with the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ. That is one feast we do not want to miss. It will be the best of the best and nothing on this earth can compare to it. We do not know exactly when the Bridegroom will come, but we know He is coming.

We need to be ready today for that feast. We cannot delay for “today is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2). We need to be assured that we know the Bridegroom by accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior, repenting of our sins and committing to live our life for Him.

If you’re not certain you’re ready for Christ’s return and join in the marriage feast, then say a prayer from your heart expressing your desire to admit you’re a sinner, believe in your heart and confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord, and commit to living a life for Christ. Then if He returns today, you’ll be ready and welcomed into the feast.

Find Rest in God

2009-10-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

“My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him.” ~~ Psalm 62:1 (NIV)

This past month I found the pressures of being a wife, mother, college student and Bible study teacher more than fulfilling. After I started, I wondered if I would find the key to having balance in my life.

Before when I stayed home and homeschooled, my life seemed to be busy. But after my son started public school and I returned to college myself, I realized what a cozy life I had before. I felt like I went from zero to sixty in a minute flat. I felt like I was on a highway with no rest stops.

After the movie, Cars, came out I frequently sang the theme song by Rascal Flatts, Life is a Highway. The lyrics to the verse read, “Life is a highway, I wanna ride it all night long. If you’re goin’ my way, I wanna drive it all night long.” The other day I heard the song and I told my husband, “I want to find a rest stop! I don’t want to drive all night long!”

He knew what I meant. I needed a rest or waiting period. Building up to last Friday, I stressed myself by fretting about mid-term exams. Chase in his 12-year old relaxed, no worry straight A student tone said, “Mom, why do you stress? You know if you stress you won’t remember what you studied.” Friday I finished my mid-term exams, came home and rested all weekend. Needless to say, my soul found my rest stop in God.

This weekend, I found myself resting in the Lord. I have found comfort and peace with Him knowing that all I do, I must do for the glory of Him. I can do nothing in and of myself anyhow. Now that I’m rested, I do not feel stressed about what tasks lay before me. I have lots to do, but I will make my plans and ask the Lord to direct my steps. I will wait for Him to lead and guide.

I’m learning how to balance my life being outside the home more these days. I realize I must find my rest in the Lord. I understand a bit better why He commanded us to take a day to rest—for only in Him can we truly rest!

What is Your Driving Personality?

2009-10-07T04:46:00.003-05:00

Today my Purely Personalities post published on Take Root and Write. Here's a sneak peek:

I've been driving in the rush hour traffic a lot more these days since both my son and I returned to school this fall. During this time, I've observed various driving styles. As I thought about it, driving styles could possibly reveal a person's personality type (at least the personality trait being displayed at that very moment as most of us have personality blends). The early morning and afternoon traffic times creates pressure on people when they're driving. I can now differentiate those drivers who are prepared to those who are not. Let's explore some of the possibilities of personalities while driving.

To read what each personality may look like while driving and see which personality you have while driving, click here.

A New Look

2009-10-05T05:30:00.001-05:00

See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. ~~ Isaiah 43:19 NIV

“Those were the good ol’ days!” Have you heard anyone make that declaration? I recall my grandfather used to tell me about his days in the Navy, remembering times that seemed to be better than the current moment.

As I’ve gotten a bit older, I’ve caught myself doing the same thing. But Scripture promises us that we will have better days ahead. Those who believe in Jesus Christ as Messiah have the hope of a glorious eternal future.

But for the here and now, we have God’s promises and hope of new life here on earth because we’re sealed with the Holy Spirit. (Eph. 1:13) The Holy Spirit guides us in our daily living. He leads us the way through “the desert and streams in the wasteland.”

When living in our “desert” and “wasteland,” it is a place where reliance and dependence on the Lord’s provision is the only option. He is our only source of provision and all things come from Him.

The Lord does new things for us along our journey. There have been times I read the above Scripture and cried out, “No! I can’t see it! I don’t perceive it. Please show me Lord!” But He is faithful to show us in His timing—it’s a matter of faith and trust.

Well the Lord is doing new things in my life. Things I only imagined and dreamt of before this year. In the years past, I felt the call to be a women’s teacher and speaker. Years I’ve worked in preparation for this year. Now I can see the new thing.

As I’ve mentioned in a previous post, I’m teaching a weekly ladies Bible study that I am writing, and speaking at women’s conferences and retreats. And now the Lord blessed me with a new makeover on the blog as part of this new season in my life.

I want to thank the Lord for placing Crissy, a blog designer, in my life at precisely the right moment for I knew this meeting came from Him. Crissy captured my heart and the heart of the ministry I feel the Lord has entrusted to me. Crissy prayed for several days about how to design the blog. I felt so blessed by the Lord to guide me to such a prayerful blog designer.

As the Lord leads me in this new season, I now perceive it as He places the right people in my life at the right time for whatever it is I need. I can remember the “good ol’ days” but better yet, I can look forward to days yet to come as the Lord does a new thing!

Can you perceive the new things the Lord is doing in your life? Please share your thoughts in the comments. Also leave Crissy your thoughts on the new look too. Thank you Crissy!

I Will Follow Christ

2009-09-30T06:00:00.002-05:00

Run the Race

2009-09-28T06:00:00.001-05:00

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. ~~ 1 Corinthians 9:24-25, NIV

My son, Chase, runs on the cross country team. He’s been training since early October and working hard to win a prize. His coaches told me he has a lot of heart and works hard, but he has one drawback—his short legs.

Chase has not let his stature become a hindrance to him. He pursues his goal to win a prize as he thrives on competition. He enjoys sports and let's nothing deter him.

I was blessed to travel to the cross country meet this past Saturday on a ranch. What really blessed me was prior to his team’s start, the voluntarily boys huddled together in prayer. I overheard them reciting the Lord’s Prayer.

Then they lined up. On your mark, get set, GO! BAM the gun signaled the start of the race. Chase started off hard. The two-mile course on the rough terrain yielded rocks and low water crossings. About eleven minutes later, I saw the first blue/white shirts on the horizon. But where’s Chase?

I started to get a bit worried when some runners came in front of Chase as he’s usually in front of them. Finally here he came. Running with all his might, he came in and finished. He won a prize—a medal.

Chase showed me his skinned up knee. He fell on the course and he said he sat there for a little while, but then he decided to get up and finish the race. He did not want to ride in on the cart.

Isn’t that how we’re to be as believers in Christ? We prepare; we run. For our training, we study the Word of God, spend time in prayer and worship with our Lord. Then we go out and run our course.

When we run our race, we may fall down. Perhaps we said something we should not have said. Or watched a television show not meant for our eyes. There are a myriad of ways we can fall. Yet God’s word states, “for though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises again” (Proverbs 24:16 NIV). We can either let those things bring us down, or we can pick ourselves up and move forward. Let’s rise up like Chase did in this past race and finish the course.

Chase’s medal is only temporary, but the prize we run for “will last forever.” Run the race God set before you!

You're Right

2009-09-25T06:00:00.001-05:00

One afternoon my husband, Eldon and I were out grocery shopping together. He saw a display of Trail Mix and decided that would make a great snack. Then he commented to me, "You'll probably eat all the M&M's and leave me only the nuts and raisins."

After a few days, Eldon sat down in his easy chair with the bag of trail mix he waited to enjoy. As he started snacking away on the nuts and raisins, he said, "All the M&M's are gone."

"You're right," I stated, "And since I want you to be right, I removed the M&M's and ate them."

Wednesday Worship--Indescribable

2009-09-23T06:00:00.002-05:00

Amazing God

2009-09-21T05:30:00.001-05:00

Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, "We have seen remarkable things today. ~~Luke 5:26, NIV

I attended the Living the Life women’s conference this past weekend in Corpus Christi, Texas. This event was AMAZING.

“Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God.” We were “fill with awe and said, ‘We have seen remarkable things today.’” God’s glory filled the Selena Auditorium this weekend. Women made decisions to follow Christ and draw closer to Him!

My friend, Esther and I traveled the five hours there on Friday. Esther drove the whole way. Once we arrived in Corpus, we checked into the hotel, freshened up and stopped at a fast food place to grab a bite before the evening conference started. Perhaps this next part was a clue to how the weekend would turn out. She pulled her van into the handicap parking, so being the good friend that I am stated, “Just because it says van accessible doesn’t mean you can park here.” Laughter burst out of both of us. We couldn’t contain ourselves. God is amazing!

The last speaker for the evening, Tonya Webber, spoke about Jesus as our playmate. The message was about having childlike faith and having fun in the Lord. We blew bubbles as we heard about the joy of the Lord. Esther had trouble with her bubbles, as they would not fly up, but fall to the floor. We rationalized that her bubbles were overweight. We couldn’t contain our laughter. God is amazing!

As an editor for Take Root and Write (TRW), I passed out flyers for our online magazine. After the evening session, a woman came up to me to ask about the flyer. I told her about it and she told me she was just accepted to write for Take Root and Write. Alisa Hope was so excited to meet me and I was excited to meet her. And I learned it is her twin sister, Crissy that is re-doing my blog! That was a kiss from God show each of us we were in the right place. God is amazing!

Saturday morning was just as phenomenal. We arrived, prayed with the Living the Life team. Then Esther and I went with Tonya to set up the PowerPoint for the breakout session. This session was on Vibrant Relationships where Rochelle, Tonya and I were speaking. Earlier this year while planning, Tonya wanted to use PowerPoint as she is a visual person and wanted others to see the presentation visually as well as hear us. So she procured the screen, projector and laptop. Thank God Esther was there as she’s learned in her new job how to use LCD projectors. Esther set up the screen, projector and made necessary adjustments for the presentation. Without her help, I don’t think the PowerPoint would have been used. Thank you Esther! Esther was meant to be there for “such a time as this.” God is amazing!

I needed to laugh. I needed the messages I heard. And I needed to see God work through others in such beautiful ways. There’s so much more, but don’t have the space to share here. I want to thank the LTL team, the James Roots band, and all the wonderful volunteers that worked so hard to make the conference a success! God is amazing!

We don’t have to go to a conference to see God do amazing things. We can be filled with awe as we see God work in our everyday lives. Please share your Amazing God stories in the comments.

Overwhelmed?

2009-09-14T06:00:00.002-05:00

“. . .When my heart is overwhelmed; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I” (Psalm 61:2, NIV).

In a matter of weeks, my lifestyle changed drastically. It’s not that it’s hard, I am just not used to working so much. I had become accustomed to having lots more leisure time and now that spare time is gone.

My youngest child returned to public school. I thought I would have lots more time, but I realize now after three weeks of school that it’s just as much effort as homeschooling (though in a different way with after school activities and homework).

I registered for college classes. The last time I took college classes, it was easy—that was about 15 years ago. I put off college to raise my boys. Now one is on his own, I thought the classes would be easy. What I didn’t consider was the fact that my memory retention isn’t what it used to be. I have to put much more effort into it now. But I quote scripture confessing that I have “the mind of Christ” (1 Cor 2:16) and “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Phil 4:13).

Writing a Bible study and teaching is my greatest passion. I have much more respect for Bible teachers who write their own curriculum as I pour my heart into this project. God’s word is life changing and I pray that those, to whom God allows me to minister, will soak in His Word and allow Him to change their lives.

Then I have the writing and editorial duties. I love it! God is so amazing at how He works through His people. Then I accepted another role as an editorial assistant. (You probably think I’m crazy by now, but I believe it’s my calling to accept.)

I realized with all these activities, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. I felt it last week, and I had to run to Christ—my Rock and Redeemer. We can become overwhelmed physically as well as in our innermost being—our hearts, the soul. I found my rest in Christ where He said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-20, NIV).

Only in Jesus, do we find rest and relief from the overwhelming situations. I found it meditating on His word and learning to take time to physically rest. When I tried to be like the Energizer Bunny, I broke down.

Let’s remember to run to the Rock higher than us; run to Jesus in Whom we find rest. He energizes our overwhelmed hearts.

9/11 Tribute

2009-09-11T05:59:00.003-05:00

Today I selected a song by Daryl Worley titled "Have You Forgotten?" Let's always remember to pray for our nation and those who sacrifice their lives for our safety.

The Hedge

2009-09-08T05:01:00.004-05:00

Today you can find my Totally Transplanted post at TakeRootandWrite.com. Here's a sample:

Where I grew up in West Texas, a row of evergreen trees concealed the house on one side or perhaps all the way around it. These trees provided a wind break as strong winds are prevalent on the plains and those winds stir up lots of dust. Farmers plant these hedges to protect their homes. Most of the hedges I remember were much taller than the home itself, providing a barrier from the cold winds. Many hedges can grow so tall and dense that they’re impossible to penetrate. Smaller garden hedges repel small animals from consuming the foliage. Hedges are also a more attractive barrier than fences.

To live Totally Transplanted lives, we need hedges in our lives. Hedges provide protection in two ways. First, it keeps predators away from us. Animals such as rabbits and deer seek out food from gardens. If a hedge exists, they’ll look for a breach to break through in order to consume the plants. Our enemy, the devil seeks out ways to break through the hedge the Lord put around us to protect us.

Do you remember Job? In the first book of Job, Satan presented himself to God and God asked Satan if he considered His servant Job. Satan responded that Job feared God because of His wealth.

"So Satan answered the LORD and said, “Does Job fear God for nothing? Have You not made a hedge around him, around his household, and around all that he has on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land” (Job 1:9-10, NKJV).

To continue reading this column, click here.

Engrafted by His Grace--

Back to School

2009-09-02T10:51:00.003-05:00

Today you can find my Purely Personality Post at TakeRootandWrite.com. Here's the beginning:

Well, it's finally here! Back to school our children go. Some mothers are relieved as they will have time to make the hair and nail appointments they've put off to spend time with the kiddos. Other mom's will be missing their little ones throughout the day. Regardless of which one we are, the kids are back in school (unless you're a homeschooling mom then you're still with those little blessings all day).

After homeschooling my youngest son, Chase, for the past five years, he returned to the public school system for the seventh grade. He's very athletic and competitive. Our state does not allow homeschooled children to participate in University Interscholastic League (UIL). Because of that, we enrolled him in school so he could participate in UIL competitions.

Last week we attended orientation to be briefed on rules and, most importantly, receive the classroom schedule. Did he get the classes he signed up for? Yes! Except one, but we didn't request a change since all the important classes were fine. At the orientation, nearly one thousand students and parents filled the school. I loved watching how all the different personalities behaved.

To read my observations on each personality, click here.

Engrafted by His Grace--

Wisdom & Knowledge

2009-08-31T06:00:00.000-05:00

My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. ~~ Proverbs 2:1-6 NIV

I’ve always enjoyed learning. Even as a child, I liked school when my classmates did not. Now, I confess by the time I reached high school, my interest in school started to wane as I found other teenage interests. But most of my life, I’ve actually enjoyed learning.

I like to read and study. If there’s something I don’t know and I want to know, I’ll look it up. It is so much easier now to research with the internet in our homes as gives us a wealth of information at our fingertips. Libraries have books and periodicals available online. I read a comment of a bloggy friend who said she was going to the library to research. I thought about it and I can’t remember the last time I actually went to the library. I’m certain my library card has expired. I prefer to buy books to create my own library than borrow books.

Though I like to learn, there are certain things I’m just not interested in, such as science and math. My youngest son really enjoys math and he can’t fathom my not liking it. God likes numbers as there is a book called Numbers; He counted and talks about multiplying throughout the scriptures. He even knows the number of hairs on our head, so numbers are important. But He also created many parts to one body and we each function differently.

Therefore, I believe my part in the body is to read, write, teach and speak. That’s what I enjoy. My heart’s desire it to first seek the Lord for from Him comes wisdom. Next is to serve my family and my church. Now that I am no longer homeschooling my youngest son, I’ve been afforded the opportunity to return to school myself and complete my education.

Years (many years) ago, I served in the U.S. Air Force to earn money for college. But then the boys came along and the Lord had me set that desire aside for a season. I lost the funds I contributed to the G.I. Bill as the time had lapsed. But then I found out (through the Lord guiding me) that my state, Texas, has financial aid for veterans. The financial aid package went through very quickly, I registered and I’m again a college student! I’m now pursuing a degree in English in order to enhance my writing and editing skills.

Besides gaining understanding through college coursework, I’m researching and writing a Bible study on Hosea that I’m presenting in my community. Lord willing, we’ll see what else He wants me to do with it after this.

I thank God He doesn’t give me any time to be bored. My life is very busy, but it is a good kind of busy as I want to turn my ear to wisdom and apply my heart to understanding.

Engrafted by His Grace--

Ready? Saddle up let's go!

2009-08-19T13:48:00.003-05:00

To my friends & family,
We're on a great adventure with Christ. Let's saddle up & blaze our trails. I just love this song and it's come to my attention again this past week through my friend, Shona Neff. I want to share it with you!

Engrafted by His Grace--

Constant Reminders

2009-08-17T06:00:00.001-05:00

Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates. ~~ Deuteronomy 6:5-9 NIV

Often I feel like a nagging mother. I’m constantly reminding my children of their chores. I’ve tried all the chore chart systems, star systems, rewards and allowances. Nothing seems to help them to remember what to do without my prompting them.

“Did you feed and water the dogs?”

“Did you remember to brush you teeth?”

“Did you put away your clothes? “

Over and over again, I’m repeating myself. I’ve thought of recording in the digital voice recorder, numbering my reminders and pressing play on the appropriate number when that particular task needs to be done.

But then I remembered the scripture from Deuteronomy 6. The Lord gives us the commandments that we’re to put upon our hearts, but then He directs us parents to “Impress them on your children.” According to Dictionary.com, impress means “to affect deeply or strongly in mind or feelings; influence in opinion; to fix deeply or firmly on the mind or memory, as ideas or facts; to urge, as something to be remembered or done.”

How do we have something fixed deeply on the mind or memory? We must hear it over and over again. It struck me that’s how it is with our children, they must hear it over and over again. That’s why it states in Deuteronomy 6, “talk about them when. . .”

“You sit at home.” While we’re at home, we’re to teach our children the scriptures and how to follow the Word.

“When you walk along the road.” Grant it, we drive most places today. So while driving around on our errands, to and from practices, we should be giving our children instructions.

“When you lie down.” So as we put them to bed at night we need to remind them of the word of God, tell them what they do right and tell them how to correct what they did wrong.

“When you get up.” We need to model for them how to read the word and pray when they get up preparing for the day ahead.

I gather from this scripture, we’re to talk to our children all day to remind them of what to do. It’s a process to impress upon them God’s commandments. I wanted to tell them once and they remember it, but it has not happened that way for me. I think that’s why the rest of the scripture above tells us to put them on our hands, foreheads, doors and gates. We need constant reminding too. It’s a lifelong process.

If not already, let’s begin the daily process of getting in the Word of God all through out the day. We can use 3 X 5 note cards on our mirrors and refrigerator. I painted scripture in the skylight. Let’s talk about God’s commands all through out the day with each other and our children. Let’s see what a difference it will make for us. After all, we all need the constant reminders (especially when it comes to chores).

Engrafted by His Grace--

Be Persistent

2009-08-10T07:50:00.003-05:00

Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. ~~Luke 18:1 NIV

Each morning when I wake up, I sit on the couch with a cup of coffee to read the scriptures and pray. The other morning, my cat kept jumping up next to me, walking around me and meowing. This behavior was not typical, but I tried to dismiss it as I was attempting to have my “quiet time.” But she kept being persistent to the point that she jumped on the arm of the sofa, meowed, moved closer to my face, and swatted at my mouth with her paw. She gently tapped my lips whiling meowing. Not alert yet as I was still working on my first cup of coffee, I dismissed her odd behavior as cute.

However, when I got up to move about the house, she followed me to every room rubbing against my legs and meowing. I finally asked her what she wanted. (Yes, I believe we can talk to the animals and I do talk to mine.) As I walked to the kitchen to refill my coffee cup, she stopped by her water bowl and meowed. I keep the lights dim and the cat water bowl is dark blue, so I could not tell if water was available or not. Stooping over, I felt that the bowl was empty. “Oh, you need some water.” At the sound of running water, the other two cats showed up also. All that time, she was petitioning me for a drink of water. She knew what she needed and she knew who to ask.

We also have basic needs for food, water, clothing, shelter and good health. Just as the cat was persistent in asking me for her need, we need to be persistent in asking the Lord for our needs. I can’t explain the reason why sometimes He answers right away and other times He waits. He is sovereign and knows what is best. He never sleeps so He does not need the first cup of coffee. He simply knows what is best. And we’re to keep praying.

Jesus shared a parable in Luke 18 “to show them that they should always pray and not give up.” A persistent widow kept asking an unjust judge for justice against her adversary. Then Jesus said in Luke 18:6-8, "Listen to what the unjust judge says. And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?"

Will He find people praying? If an unjust judge will grant justice to a persistent widow, why would we not believe that God, the Father, the Just Judge see to it that we’re taken care of? HE will!

Like my cat petitioned on behalf of herself and her “roommates,” I’m petitioning our Father for our country, our families, our marriages, our health, and our finances. We have an adversary that roams around like a lion seeking someone to devour, so let’s be sober and vigilant (1 Peter 5:8). Let’s be persistent in prayer—not giving up.

Engrafted by His Grace--

Relationship Rescue & Restoration

2009-08-05T07:00:00.002-05:00

Now that I'm a Certified Personality Trainer, I'm writing a column once a month at Take Root and Write. Here's a sample:

When my husband, Eldon and I married over twenty years ago, we promised each other that the honeymoon would never end. We wanted to always be googly-eyed and kooky with each other. However, real life happened and we went to work to support our household. Then our first child was born, and that changed everything.

What used to be a fun and exciting life, turned into work (for me anyhow). Then later baby number two came along. More work. My husband and I did not see eye to eye on how things in our home should be handled.

Off and on for twenty years, we had our highs and lows. We sought out counseling from pastors (and we so exhausted a few of them that they finally retired). Then we tried licensed professional counselors. We applied the techniques we learned from these experiences, but none of the advice ever really stuck.

But, then I was introduced to The Personalities before a CLASS (Christian Leaders Authors and Speakers Services) speaking seminar. When I heard the CD's and took the personality profile, I wanted my family to take it also. When we learned about each others personalities, we were all amazed at how accurate the profile assessments were and how much better we started to understand each other.

To read the full column, jump over to Purely Personalities on Take Root and Write where Shona Neff and I share this bi-monthly column.

If you or your organization would like more information and/or training on The Personalities, please email me at shonda (at) engraftedbygrace (dot) com. I'm available for small groups, seminars and conferences.

Engrafted by His Grace--

Exceptional Drought

2009-07-27T10:16:00.004-05:00

. . .till the Spirit is poured upon us from on high, and the desert becomes a fertile field, and the fertile field seems like a forest. ~~Isaiah 32:15 NIV

Hot and dry. That's what it is in south Texas. Those of us who live here are in extreme and exceptional drought conditions. Only a few more days and records will be set for the most number of days in a row for triple digit heat. This type of weather makes us long for rain.

Spiritually we can experience dry spells. However, the Lord, will pour out his Spirit upon us causing us to be fertile soil in a dry land. We may live in drought conditions, but our walk with the Lord does not have to reflect it.

We can live in such relationship with our Savior that the Holy Spirit keeps us and guides us and we live a life pleasing to our Lord. He's our source of nourishment. He's the only way we'll survive when the heat comes on us.

Tap into the power of the Holy Spirit through Jesus Christ our Lord as He will make our desert a fertile field.

To read more about how to Stay Fertile in a Barren Land, read my Totally Transplanted Column this for this week at Take Root and Write.

Engrafted by His Grace--

Reasons I Enjoy the Summer

2009-07-10T11:16:00.005-05:00

Here are three reasons I enjoy the triple digit heat this summer:

The Hits

The Runs & Steals

The Catches

Engrafted by His Grace--

Cleaning House

2009-07-06T12:45:00.003-05:00

So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. ~~ Galatians 5:16-17 NIV

Busyness consumed me through June. This past week, I spent my time “catching up” around the house. I noticed with a little bit of neglect that all areas of my home became out-of-control.

I lived in maintenance mode. The mode where I ensured we had something to eat, some clean dishes to eat off of, and clean clothes to wear (if you could find what you wanted in the clean laundry pile in the spare room). Areas that slid were the weekly sheet changes, bathroom scrubbing, sweeping, mopping, dusting, and vacuuming. I think you get the idea. I lost my groove and the state of my home went into decay. What I realized though, it did not take any effort to get in that condition.

But cleaning and returning it to a level of cleanliness that we’re accustomed to living, took effort. Last week when I went without internet for a few days, I put in some effort to work on cleaning my house. Maybe there was a reason I went two days without service. Then I had to discipline myself to stay off the computer and tend to the needs of my home. It took all Sunday afternoon to sort through the laundry pile, folding, ironing and putting away clothes. But since I’ve cleaned and caught up, a clean home feels refreshing.

As I worked, I thought about how it relates to my spiritual life. With neglect and no effort, sin can creep in. It takes effort to live by the Spirit. The choices have to be intentional just as making the bed each day is intentional.

Choosing to forgive instead of taking an offense must be the choice I make. How much easier it would be to take an offense, like taking the clothes out of the dryer and piling them up in the spare room. It would keep growing until I confronted it.

How much easier it is to entertain anxious thoughts instead of casting out thoughts that do not line up with God’s word. It takes effort to ponder on thoughts that are lovely and praiseworthy, but worth the effort for a sane mind. Just as it is worth the effort to sweep the tile floors, so I can feel the coolness of them on my bare feet without feeling like I’m out on a dirt road.

Living according to the sinful nature requires no effort, just as not cleaning house does not take any effort. But living a life by the Spirit requires intentional choices, just like cleaning must be intentional. Let’s be intentional and choose to live by the Spirit and keep our house clean!

Engrafted by His Grace--

Let Freedom Ring

2009-06-29T12:23:00.002-05:00

But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. ~~ Romans 6:22-23 NIV

“I can’t wait until I grow up so I can do whatever I want!” I used to declare to my parents. They laughed at me which made me even angrier because I was serious. I wanted to hear freedom ring. Now that I have children, I understand why they laughed.

In the past year, my youngest son has graduated from Sponge Bob Square Pants to The Suite Life of Zack and Cody. He’s graduated from riding his bike up and down the street to having the freedom to ride his bike to play with friends at their homes. He’s also gained the freedom from being chauffeured to each and every activity to arranging pick ups with his friend’s parents. Since he has more outings without parents, he also gained the freedom to carry a cell phone (a.k.a. “the leash”). Because my son is growing up, he has gained more independence from his parents. He is starting to express that childhood desire to grow up so he can do whatever he wants.

We teach our son that to have freedoms he must be obedient and responsible. He must complete all his assignments and chores. He must keep his commitments. He must check with us before leaving one friend’s home to go to another. The lists of responsibilities keep increasing with the list of freedoms.

In our walk with Christ, we experience freedom. But we must not use that freedom as an excuse to sin. For sin leads to death. But we have the gift of God in Christ Jesus our Lord which is eternal life. However, while we live our lives here on planet earth, sin will attempt to keep us in bondage though the death and resurrection of Christ set us free from sin. We can experience freedom from sin through repentance.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. ~~1 John 1:9 NIV

We don’t have to remain in a life that leads to death. We can be set free from the bondage of sin. As believers in Christ, many of us are in bondages to sin and need to be set free. Each of us can experience victory in areas of our lives. We have that victory and freedom in Christ Jesus.

In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness. For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace. ~~ Romans 6:11-14 NIV

As we experience grace through Jesus Christ, we have responsibilities so sin shall not be our master. We must live a life of obedience. Let’s repent, offer our lives to God and live a life of obedience under grace. That’s how we can let freedom ring.

Engrafted by His Grace--

Faithfully United

2009-06-22T11:15:00.003-05:00

"For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh."This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband. ~~Ephesians 5:31-33 NIV

Twenty-one years ago today, Eldon and I eloped. We skipped all the hoopla and got married. We were in our young 20’s and only knew each other for a few months. We knew all the advice we’d receive would be contrary to what we wanted to do, so we just skipped it. I know some people who were skeptical about our relationship and how long it would last. And yes, I agree with statistics, most rushed marriages fall apart just as quickly as they jumped into them. (And I don’t recommend other couples do what we did.)

However, we defied statistics. Many years ago, my husband and I sought out Christian marriage counseling. We took this test to determine our compatibility. When we met with the pastoral counselor to receive the results, he told us that 85 percent of couples with our scores end up divorced. I remember looking this man in the eyes and stating, “Well we fall into the other fifteen percent.” We finished that session but never returned.

We’re not any different than other couples. We have our fussy moments with each other. We have disagreements. We have fun times too. What makes our marriage different? I believe it is commitment; being faithful to one another. We’ve been faithful to our vows before God and to each other.

Faithfulness is a part of the fruit of the Spirit. We see throughout Scriptures how God is consistently faithful to His Word and promises. In Chris Tiegreen’s devotion, Walk with God, he wrote, “God, however, is constant. His faithfulness reaches to the skies (see Psalm 36:5; 57:10; 108:4), and His love and faithfulness are semantically paired so often that they are clearly intertwined. His love is unchanging; there is nothing fickle about it—not even from generation to generation (Psalm 100:5). True faithfulness endures forever (Psalm 117:2). It can do no other.”

Therefore, we must have Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit to have the fruit of the Spirit. Then we can exercise faithfulness. In our marriage, there have been times our flesh wanted to take over, but the yielding to the Holy Spirit is better. Each of us has remained faithful to God and to each other. That is why I believe our marriage has lasted twenty-one years. And that’s why I believe we will enjoy each other until death do we part (which I hope is many, many more years). We’re faithfully united to each other and to our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Engrafted by His Grace--

Let the Children Come

2009-06-15T06:06:00.004-05:00

People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." ~~Mark 10:13-15 NIV

Let the little children come to Jesus!

Summer’s here! School’s out and now Vacation Bible School’s are launching in churches in all our cities. My community is not any different. This week is VBS week for our church.

In the Scriptures, parents brought their children to Jesus for Him to touch them. Perhaps they wanted a blessing from Jesus or maybe they were in need of a healing. But they wanted them to go to Jesus.

I wonder. . .do parents see our churches as an extension of Jesus when they bring their children to VBS? Or is it viewed as free morning for them to go shopping, run errands or not to have to pay for day care?

I feel convinced that Jesus receives the children regardless of the reason the parents bring them to VBS. These little ones don’t need intellect as much as they need to feel loved, accepted and receive a gentle touch from people who care. No matter what reason the children come, let us not hinder them from meeting Jesus at VBS. They will be blessed!

Just maybe then the children will share the gentle, caring touch they receive at VBS with their parents. It is possible the children will share the scriptures with their parents. The Word of God is a seed planted in spirits. We can pray that God sends someone to water the seed and HE will bring in the harvest. Who knows how many lives VBS can reach directly and indirectly for Jesus? Let’s support the Vacation Bible School’s in our communities this summer. That’s where I’ll be this week—with the little children who come.

And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them. ~~ Mark 10:16 NIV

Engrafted by His Grace--

Funny Cats

2009-06-12T09:05:00.002-05:00

I enjoy having cats as pets. I came across this funny cat video on YouTube which made me laugh through it all.

A cheerful disposition is good for your health; gloom and doom leave you bone-tired. ~~Proverbs 17:22 MSG

Engrafted by His Grace--

All Joy

2009-06-08T09:52:00.004-05:00

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does. ~~ James 1:2-8 NIV

Several words stand out to me in the above passage: joy, trials, testing, perseverance, mature, wisdom, believe and receive.

What does James mean that we can count it a joy when we face trials and testing? Going through trials and tribulations hurt. I confess I tend to lean on the worrier and anxious side of life. All the “what ifs” start piling up on me like a heavy backpack that I keep stuffing with more “what ifs.” Then, before I know it, the burden is too heavy. I fall. I start unloading “what ifs” at the cross, but I still hold onto some and get up again.

Then this morning the thought came to me, What if everything I’m worried about, the Lord has allowed to come to me? What if the Lord is using these situations to grow me? What if I sing praise to HIM allowing Him to work out the worries and direct my steps?

Here are my thoughts as I meditated on those words this morning:

First, count it a joy. I can be joyful because I’m growing in Christ.

Second, trials and testing keeps my seeking my God through my Savior, Jesus Christ.

Third, perseverance comes. I must keep on keeping on. The love of the Lord drives me to not quit.

Fourth, I’m maturing in Christ as I keep my eyes on HIM. I’m growing up in our Lord as I never give up on what He’s called me to do—to be a wife, mother, and teacher.

Fifth, God gives wisdom. When facing tests and trials, we need wisdom in how to respond. God gives us that wisdom.

Sixth, Believe God. God is faithful and I can trust HIM to do what His word says He will do.

Seventh, receive from God. He promises rewards to those who persevere. I will hold onto HIM to receive what He has for me. What He gives is eternal.

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. ~~ James 1:12 NIV

After meditating on those seven words from scripture, I’m ready to unpack my backpack at the cross. I’m lifting my hands up high toward the heavens and shouting praises to my Lord and King. I know I will persevere, mature and receive wisdom as I believe in my Lord. I will count it all joy!

Engrafted by His Grace--

Wednesday Worship - You Take Me Back

2009-06-03T09:03:00.001-05:00

Engrafted by His Grace--