The Real Me is the one I try real hard to not let anyone see, but if you want to meet the real me, come over to my house and watch my children for a day...
My children are a reflection of the real me that I hide from the rest of the world. My children who are born with a sin nature and a rebellious heart are a mirror image of what's in my heart. Caleb with his anger. Jordan with her sass. Isaiah with his complaints. Andrew with his temper tantrums. All of them with their impatience and selfishness. I get so frustrated when I see all of these things in them, until God reminds me, that's a picture of the real me.
The real me is lazy like my kids who don't want to clean their rooms. The real me is impatient and unkind with anyone who impresses on my time or gets in my space. The real me doesn't want to eat my veggies, I want sugar instead. The real me is angry that things don't always go my way. The real me would rather watch stuff I shouldn't than spend time in God's word. The real me is tempted by everything. The real me is jealous. The real me is mean. The real me is out for #1.
This morning when I was making breakfast my two middle sons complained the whole time about what I was making. They don't want to eat healthier. They like cereal and pancakes covered in syrup, who doesn't. Oh me I would rather make that stuff, it's yummy and then I wouldn't have to fight with them. Instead I continue to make the healthy food that no one wants, because it's better for them, even if they don't care. As I cook I grow angrier and angrier at my children for being so hard to deal with, AND THEN... The Lord places the scene of the children of Israel in my minds eye. Complaining about EVERYTHING. Disobedient at every turn. Rebellious and Hardheaded. Problem is he wasn't showing me that because of my ungrateful children, he was showing me how he has to deal with the same thing from all of his children (including ME). Then He so graciously pointed out that my children are a reflection of the real me. The one that they get to see. The one who is not perfect inside the walls of this house. The one who complains all the time. The one who loses her temper all the time. The one who would rather go back to Egypt then follow God in this wilderness.
Oh yes, I can fool myself at times, but I have no goodness apart from Christ. The fruit of the Spirit in my life... love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, humility, and self-control ONLY COME FROM HIS SPIRIT. The real me as at war with the Spirit in me all the time. Galatians 5:24-25 tells us "and they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit." Crucify the Flesh... That's what I have to do on a daily basis, because when I became a follower of Christ I didn't become perfect. Everyday I have to die to MY, MY, MY affections and lusts... Do you see that? MY affections and lusts... I still have them, I just have to KILL THEM and live in the Spirit. My children haven't learned to do that yet, so when you see them misbehave just know they are a reflection of me.
Showing posts with label Truth. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Truth. Show all posts
Monday, February 27, 2012
Friday, February 24, 2012
For our Health's sake...
Health is a big deal... When you don't feed your body right it doesn't work right... I should know I haven't fed my right in a long time. When I was pregnant with my firstborn I came across a book called "What the Bible Says About Healthy Living". It was full of wonderful information that I had never heard before. I couldn't put it down. Reading this book made me realize for maybe the first time how fearfully and wonderfully we are made. I saw that the Old Testament laws were designed to bring God's people amazing health.
Growing up I NEVER heard anything about good food for good health. I heard eat your veggies, but never knew why. So, who cares if you eat your veggies. We ate out alot...enough said. Anyhoo, read the book and decided to listen and obey. Not that I was a perfect picture of health. I have ALWAYS hated any form of excercise, except walking, and I don't do that enough. But, I did become more concious of what I was feeding myself and the new life inside me.
All that went out the door when I found myself pregnant for the 3rd time in 5 years. I was TIRED. I didn't care what I ate. Snickers and Diet Coke became my best friends. I ate terribly and so did my children. We started eating out more and when I did cook it was cheap and easy. Breakfast was cold cereal 4 times a week. Lunch at a fastfood place 2 days and junk the rest. My babies have always loved fruit and I try to have plenty around, but goldfish is a quicker, easier snack. The most frequent veggie they have seen in their lives is canned corn and green beans. Ooooh Healthy!
Like I said in previous post my mom's recent battle with cancer has motivated me to seek better health for my family again. We have also have a 3yr old that is VERY high energy. I know his diet has to be a major factor in that. So, we're making some changes around here. This is my list of 5 things I have committed to do to improve my families health:
1. Drink more water... My favorite thing to drink and the only beverage I truly enjoy is Diet Coke, can we say NOT HEALTHY!!! Between DC and sweet (I mean SWEET) Tea, there's not much room for water. Likewise my children drink from my ST glass all day and when they have a glass of their own it's got some form of sugary drink in it. SO, for health's sake we're switching it up. We have a new rule now... MOSTLY WATER!
2. More Protein... High energy does not need lots of sugar. DUH. But, that is what our snacks have been before. Thankfully my 3yr old LOVES almonds and string cheese. So, that's the new snack of choice. I've already seen a huge improvement. I changed our normally sugar filled yogurt to plain yogurt with added fruit. IF you have any suggestions on the protein let me know...
3. More Fiber... We're adding more fruits and veggies and I got some flax seed to grind up and I'm putting that in our smoothies. You know what fiber does... Everybody could use a clean out.
4. Juicing... I have had a juicer for a long time, but after a week or so I got tired of all the WORK it takes to get it out, use it, take it apart, clean it, and put it away again. BUT, I have now decided it's worth it for our health's sake. The ONLY way I can get my littles to eat the green stuff they don't dig is JUICE IT. They love watching me juice the veggies and since it's a fun experience they like to drink the juice up. I'm freezing the pulp and putting it in spegetti and meat loaf and whatever else I can think of.
5. Vitamins... I've always been a big fan of Vities as my littles call them, but I've NEVER been good at taking them on a regular basis. Vitamins always make a big difference in how I feel and my energy level, so I have to be more diligent to take my vities...
These are just a few things that I can do to improve our health, but you have to start somewhere. I find for myself it's better to add a new habit to one you have already established. So, this is where I'm starting, but if my body is the temple of the Holy Spirit it's time to stop abusing it. If I am in charge of the health and welfare of my family I better start doing a better job. Laziness is no longer an excuse. If I take better care of me then I will FEEL better... God has given us an astonishing miracle in these bodies that He made. Bodies able to detox and fight off all manner of illnesses and disease, but we have to give our bodies what they need. I'm starting today!!!
What about you? Do you have any suggestions or anything that you are doing FOR YOUR HEALTH'S SAKE???
Growing up I NEVER heard anything about good food for good health. I heard eat your veggies, but never knew why. So, who cares if you eat your veggies. We ate out alot...enough said. Anyhoo, read the book and decided to listen and obey. Not that I was a perfect picture of health. I have ALWAYS hated any form of excercise, except walking, and I don't do that enough. But, I did become more concious of what I was feeding myself and the new life inside me.
All that went out the door when I found myself pregnant for the 3rd time in 5 years. I was TIRED. I didn't care what I ate. Snickers and Diet Coke became my best friends. I ate terribly and so did my children. We started eating out more and when I did cook it was cheap and easy. Breakfast was cold cereal 4 times a week. Lunch at a fastfood place 2 days and junk the rest. My babies have always loved fruit and I try to have plenty around, but goldfish is a quicker, easier snack. The most frequent veggie they have seen in their lives is canned corn and green beans. Ooooh Healthy!
Like I said in previous post my mom's recent battle with cancer has motivated me to seek better health for my family again. We have also have a 3yr old that is VERY high energy. I know his diet has to be a major factor in that. So, we're making some changes around here. This is my list of 5 things I have committed to do to improve my families health:
1. Drink more water... My favorite thing to drink and the only beverage I truly enjoy is Diet Coke, can we say NOT HEALTHY!!! Between DC and sweet (I mean SWEET) Tea, there's not much room for water. Likewise my children drink from my ST glass all day and when they have a glass of their own it's got some form of sugary drink in it. SO, for health's sake we're switching it up. We have a new rule now... MOSTLY WATER!
2. More Protein... High energy does not need lots of sugar. DUH. But, that is what our snacks have been before. Thankfully my 3yr old LOVES almonds and string cheese. So, that's the new snack of choice. I've already seen a huge improvement. I changed our normally sugar filled yogurt to plain yogurt with added fruit. IF you have any suggestions on the protein let me know...
3. More Fiber... We're adding more fruits and veggies and I got some flax seed to grind up and I'm putting that in our smoothies. You know what fiber does... Everybody could use a clean out.
4. Juicing... I have had a juicer for a long time, but after a week or so I got tired of all the WORK it takes to get it out, use it, take it apart, clean it, and put it away again. BUT, I have now decided it's worth it for our health's sake. The ONLY way I can get my littles to eat the green stuff they don't dig is JUICE IT. They love watching me juice the veggies and since it's a fun experience they like to drink the juice up. I'm freezing the pulp and putting it in spegetti and meat loaf and whatever else I can think of.
5. Vitamins... I've always been a big fan of Vities as my littles call them, but I've NEVER been good at taking them on a regular basis. Vitamins always make a big difference in how I feel and my energy level, so I have to be more diligent to take my vities...
These are just a few things that I can do to improve our health, but you have to start somewhere. I find for myself it's better to add a new habit to one you have already established. So, this is where I'm starting, but if my body is the temple of the Holy Spirit it's time to stop abusing it. If I am in charge of the health and welfare of my family I better start doing a better job. Laziness is no longer an excuse. If I take better care of me then I will FEEL better... God has given us an astonishing miracle in these bodies that He made. Bodies able to detox and fight off all manner of illnesses and disease, but we have to give our bodies what they need. I'm starting today!!!
What about you? Do you have any suggestions or anything that you are doing FOR YOUR HEALTH'S SAKE???
Friday, February 17, 2012
A God of His Word...
It's amazing how many things a person can fear... Worry and dread steal our joy and often cause us to panic over the future. I have recently been through one of those times that I ALWAYS dreaded... The death of a parent. In the past I have questioned how I would handle if one of my parents passed from this life to the next?! Fear of the future can rob us of the peace of the present.
As most of you know my mom has been very ill. She went home to be with the Lord on the 13th of February. My mom had cancer... I know it's a dirty word. I hate it too. But, the funny thing about this horrible word cancer is that it gives (us) the living TIME... Time to process the horrible prospect of a future without our loved one. It gives us time to say the things we need to say. It gives us perspective on what is TRULY important, like spending every minute you can with the one you will soon lose. I am personally thankful for this TIME. I am thankful for what this ugly cancer did to change us all and draw us closer to each other and closer to our Saviour. I am thankful for the gift of spending the last 12 hours of my mother's life holding her hand and singing to her, reading beloved scripture that has now taken on new life...
When we knew that my Mom was not going to get better I cried bitter tears. IT HURTS to lose someone you love. I cried for her. I cried for me. I thought of all the things we wouldn't get to do. I said things to myself like she is too young at 52 to leave us like this. I said things like what will I do without her. I screamed and I yelled in my spirit. I didn't want to give her up. SHE IS MINE... I told the Lord. The thing is SHE IS NOT MINE. She is HIS. My mom was only on loan to me for a while. So now I need to cherish those that are loaned to me FOR NOW.
There are a few things that I have learned along the way... Life is short. Life is precious. Life is fragile. We are not promised tomorrow. The people we love are only on loan for a while. We must be prepared to release them when it is time. The ONLY person we will ALWAYS have is JESUS. HE is the only one who can keep his promise that HE will NEVER leave us or forsake us. HE IS ENOUGH.
And Finally I learned that our God is a God of his word. He will give you peace that doesn't even make sense. He will walk with you and carry you when you are not able to stand. He will heal your heart if you let him. I know this is just the beginning of my journey, but my God has been so faithful this far that I am not afraid of tomorrow. No matter what happens in this life He will walk with me. I will see those I love again. Heaven is my home with my God and anyone who chooses to accept His invitation.
There is no need to fear the future... Don't worry about what you would do if you were in someone else's situation. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 12:9 "My grace is sufficient for you: for my strength is made perfect in weakness." He's gonna give you the grace you need. He's gonna give you the strength you need. Philippians 4:7 "And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." He's gonna give you peace...
There are so many promises in God's word that bring the child of God comfort. Read it. Read about Heaven... How could I want her back when she is in that GLORIOUS place. I'm going there too, so why would I want her back when I'm gonna see her soon???
Thank you Father for keeping your promises. You are an AWESOME GOD. You are my everything. What more could I want than you?!
As most of you know my mom has been very ill. She went home to be with the Lord on the 13th of February. My mom had cancer... I know it's a dirty word. I hate it too. But, the funny thing about this horrible word cancer is that it gives (us) the living TIME... Time to process the horrible prospect of a future without our loved one. It gives us time to say the things we need to say. It gives us perspective on what is TRULY important, like spending every minute you can with the one you will soon lose. I am personally thankful for this TIME. I am thankful for what this ugly cancer did to change us all and draw us closer to each other and closer to our Saviour. I am thankful for the gift of spending the last 12 hours of my mother's life holding her hand and singing to her, reading beloved scripture that has now taken on new life...
When we knew that my Mom was not going to get better I cried bitter tears. IT HURTS to lose someone you love. I cried for her. I cried for me. I thought of all the things we wouldn't get to do. I said things to myself like she is too young at 52 to leave us like this. I said things like what will I do without her. I screamed and I yelled in my spirit. I didn't want to give her up. SHE IS MINE... I told the Lord. The thing is SHE IS NOT MINE. She is HIS. My mom was only on loan to me for a while. So now I need to cherish those that are loaned to me FOR NOW.
There are a few things that I have learned along the way... Life is short. Life is precious. Life is fragile. We are not promised tomorrow. The people we love are only on loan for a while. We must be prepared to release them when it is time. The ONLY person we will ALWAYS have is JESUS. HE is the only one who can keep his promise that HE will NEVER leave us or forsake us. HE IS ENOUGH.
And Finally I learned that our God is a God of his word. He will give you peace that doesn't even make sense. He will walk with you and carry you when you are not able to stand. He will heal your heart if you let him. I know this is just the beginning of my journey, but my God has been so faithful this far that I am not afraid of tomorrow. No matter what happens in this life He will walk with me. I will see those I love again. Heaven is my home with my God and anyone who chooses to accept His invitation.
There is no need to fear the future... Don't worry about what you would do if you were in someone else's situation. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 12:9 "My grace is sufficient for you: for my strength is made perfect in weakness." He's gonna give you the grace you need. He's gonna give you the strength you need. Philippians 4:7 "And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." He's gonna give you peace...
There are so many promises in God's word that bring the child of God comfort. Read it. Read about Heaven... How could I want her back when she is in that GLORIOUS place. I'm going there too, so why would I want her back when I'm gonna see her soon???
Thank you Father for keeping your promises. You are an AWESOME GOD. You are my everything. What more could I want than you?!
Thursday, February 9, 2012
This ain't a wonderful world....
So, I'm glad it's not my home.
But here is a picture of where I will retire someday:
"I saw a NEW heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
And I John saw the holy city, NEW Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride for her husband.
And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, BEHOLD, the tabernacle (dwelling place) of God IS WITH men, and HE will dwell with them, they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be NO MORE death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be ANY MORE pain: for the former things are passed away.
And He that sat upon the throne said, BEHOLD, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW. And HE said to me, Write: FOR THESE WORDS ARE TRUE AND FAITHFUL.
And He said unto me, IT IS DONE. I AM the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I WILL give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the WATER OF LIFE freely.
He that overcometh shall inherit ALL things; and I WILL BE HIS GOD, and he shall be my son."
It's obvious from this passage that Jesus knew that we would have sorrow, and pain, and suffering. I don't know what you are going through today, but God knows. I don't know your pain, but I know mine and I am comforted every time I read these words. Jesus knew this life was full of suffering. Paul said to be a part of Christ you must share in His suffering. Suffering is the best tool that God can use or allow in our lives to conform us to the image of His son, BUT GOD said that is not the end. THERE IS JOY IN THE MORNING. There is beauty in the ashes. There is a beautiful vessel that comes out of the Refiners fire and when that vessel is purified there is a place waiting that exceeds our imagination.
Father, I praise your holy name. You are my strength, my comfort, my banner. When I dwell on your word and your promises I can see this place is not worth holding on to. My home is with you. I can let go of the ones that you want to take there, because it's better there. I can rest and have peace. You are faithful and true and if you said it that's all I need. Thank you for preparing a place for one who is so unworthy... I can only Imagine!!!
But here is a picture of where I will retire someday:
"I saw a NEW heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
And I John saw the holy city, NEW Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride for her husband.
And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, BEHOLD, the tabernacle (dwelling place) of God IS WITH men, and HE will dwell with them, they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be NO MORE death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be ANY MORE pain: for the former things are passed away.
And He that sat upon the throne said, BEHOLD, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW. And HE said to me, Write: FOR THESE WORDS ARE TRUE AND FAITHFUL.
And He said unto me, IT IS DONE. I AM the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I WILL give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the WATER OF LIFE freely.
He that overcometh shall inherit ALL things; and I WILL BE HIS GOD, and he shall be my son."
It's obvious from this passage that Jesus knew that we would have sorrow, and pain, and suffering. I don't know what you are going through today, but God knows. I don't know your pain, but I know mine and I am comforted every time I read these words. Jesus knew this life was full of suffering. Paul said to be a part of Christ you must share in His suffering. Suffering is the best tool that God can use or allow in our lives to conform us to the image of His son, BUT GOD said that is not the end. THERE IS JOY IN THE MORNING. There is beauty in the ashes. There is a beautiful vessel that comes out of the Refiners fire and when that vessel is purified there is a place waiting that exceeds our imagination.
Father, I praise your holy name. You are my strength, my comfort, my banner. When I dwell on your word and your promises I can see this place is not worth holding on to. My home is with you. I can let go of the ones that you want to take there, because it's better there. I can rest and have peace. You are faithful and true and if you said it that's all I need. Thank you for preparing a place for one who is so unworthy... I can only Imagine!!!
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Girlfriend let me tell you something...
Lately I've been thinking about my "girl friends". So, I had to bring my thoughts to the computer!!!
First of all, growing up I didn't have good relationships with girls... I don't know if that is just natural or if it was me. I had a bestie in middle school and I was happy, she was all I needed. I went to a new school in high school and again I had one really close female friendship. I was just one of those girls that HATED drama and liked hang'n with the boys more!!! I knew that something was missing though. I wanted to connect with other girls and just be me... I wondered if that would ever really be possible...
I mean if you watch any TV besides HGTV and Food network, you know we have an issue these days of females being VICIOUS!!! Hateful, conniving, man-stealing, self-worshipping FEMALES!!! Turn on the TV for 5 minutes and you will see that the more nurturing sex is not so nurturing these days!!! I could REALLY go off on a tangit now, but I'll try to stay on track with what I'm saying!!! Have a 2 minute conversation with you neighbor and you might find out what every female on your block does wrong?! Talk to someone at church and you might hear about how she can't connect with any of the ladies at church. LADIES it should not be so.
I am thankful that all that may be true, BUT because of Jesus and his example we women can have wonderful, loving, supportive relationships with other woman. There are woman out there who will love you, listen to you, pray with you, cry with you, and laugh with you. I KNOW this to be true because God has blessed me with some of the most wonderful friendships a girl could have. Some I see all the time and some I don't, but I KNOW if I needed anything any of them would be right there. I KNOW they are thinking of me and lifting me up in prayer. Some of my GF's are so busy they can't EVER pick up the phone... if they no telling what those little ones would get into... but just knowing they are there and the kind of friends they are gives me comfort...
So, IF you are my GF let me tell you something... I love you. I want you to know that you are a HUGE blessing to me and you bring comfort to my soul. I thank God for you!!! IT IS AN HONOR to be considered your friend!!! Thank you all for letting me be me and loving me with all your heart!!! YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST!!!
First of all, growing up I didn't have good relationships with girls... I don't know if that is just natural or if it was me. I had a bestie in middle school and I was happy, she was all I needed. I went to a new school in high school and again I had one really close female friendship. I was just one of those girls that HATED drama and liked hang'n with the boys more!!! I knew that something was missing though. I wanted to connect with other girls and just be me... I wondered if that would ever really be possible...
I mean if you watch any TV besides HGTV and Food network, you know we have an issue these days of females being VICIOUS!!! Hateful, conniving, man-stealing, self-worshipping FEMALES!!! Turn on the TV for 5 minutes and you will see that the more nurturing sex is not so nurturing these days!!! I could REALLY go off on a tangit now, but I'll try to stay on track with what I'm saying!!! Have a 2 minute conversation with you neighbor and you might find out what every female on your block does wrong?! Talk to someone at church and you might hear about how she can't connect with any of the ladies at church. LADIES it should not be so.
I am thankful that all that may be true, BUT because of Jesus and his example we women can have wonderful, loving, supportive relationships with other woman. There are woman out there who will love you, listen to you, pray with you, cry with you, and laugh with you. I KNOW this to be true because God has blessed me with some of the most wonderful friendships a girl could have. Some I see all the time and some I don't, but I KNOW if I needed anything any of them would be right there. I KNOW they are thinking of me and lifting me up in prayer. Some of my GF's are so busy they can't EVER pick up the phone... if they no telling what those little ones would get into... but just knowing they are there and the kind of friends they are gives me comfort...
So, IF you are my GF let me tell you something... I love you. I want you to know that you are a HUGE blessing to me and you bring comfort to my soul. I thank God for you!!! IT IS AN HONOR to be considered your friend!!! Thank you all for letting me be me and loving me with all your heart!!! YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST!!!
Times like these...
The Bible says "give honor to whom honor is due". In proverbs it says "let another man praise you and not your own lips". This post is an attempt to give honor and praise to some special people in my life. As you know my mom is in the hospital facing a very serious situation. This is the first time in my life that I have had to rely completely on my faith and trust in the Lord. This is the first time I have had to look at what I believe and say is this (my faith) enough to see me through. Do I REALLY believe if I have to let her go that we WILL meet again someday? IS JESUS ENOUGH??? I have to say that God has been so faithful to bring me peace and comfort that HE has given me no choice... I have to believe because He has proven himself faithful and true. One of the ways he has shown me his faithfulness is with the people he has placed in my life.
The first person that God has been so kind and faithful to share with me is my husband. He is a rock for me. He listens when I need to talk. He gives me his strong embrace when I need someone to hold me up. His silent presence gives me courage. He knows just when to lighten the moment with a well timed joke. He is patient and kind. He is the kind of husband that the world tells you doesn't exist. I am so thankful that the Lord chose me to be his wife. There is security in knowing that He REALLY loves me!!!
There is a very good reason that I have the world's greatest husband... He has the most amazing MOM... She is ALWAYS there when I need her. My mother-n-love is my Naomi... She is someone I can talk to and cry with. I don't have to worry about my house being clean or my every move being examined by her. I have heard so many horror stories about "the inlaws", but I have been so EXTRA-ordinarily blessed with the world's greatest!!! She makes me laugh and she tells me the truth. She treats me like a daughter and not "my sons wife"... She is my friend in every way. But, when it comes to needing something this is where she stands out from the rest... She just does whatever needs to be done. I never have to ask. Last night when I was just too emotionally exhausted to function she took care of everything without even needing to be asked... I love you DLG!!! You are AMAZING and NO ONE ever lets you know how wonderful you are, but you ARE the best part of our family!!!!! You are a HUGE blessing in my life...
In a day of Jersey Shore, DH of Hollywood, and The Bachelor you might be convinced that females cannot get along. Reality shows have shown the worst of girl relationships just like TV has us convinced there are no good men out there... This is such a shame. The friendship between two woman can be one of the most rewarding relationships. I have been so blessed with the best friends. I'm so thankful for my friend Gayla. She is a what the bible calls a "a virtuous woman whose value is above rubies". There is not an area in this life that we don't connect on. There is not a place where her wisdom has not touched my life. Gayla you make me laugh. You tell the truth in the most wonderful way. You lift me up when I'm down you and you bring me back to earth when I'm full of myself. I'm so thankful to be walking this narrow road with you. It's rare to know that another woman loves you and genuinely celebrates your success!!! YOU ARE A TRUE FRIEND. Thank you for being here for me when I have needed you. Thank you for all that you have done... babysitting, cleaning, listening, praying... I LOVE YOU!!!
In times like this the people who love you step up and do what needs to be done. They PROVE their love by their actions... I'm am so thankful. I am so blessed. God is so faithful and so true. JESUS IS ENOUGH. When the Bible says "My grace is sufficient for you. My strength is made perfect in your weakness." This is what it means... When the circumstances of this life are hard to bear God sends his grace and mercy so you can make it through. You all have been God's grace and mercy to me!!!
The first person that God has been so kind and faithful to share with me is my husband. He is a rock for me. He listens when I need to talk. He gives me his strong embrace when I need someone to hold me up. His silent presence gives me courage. He knows just when to lighten the moment with a well timed joke. He is patient and kind. He is the kind of husband that the world tells you doesn't exist. I am so thankful that the Lord chose me to be his wife. There is security in knowing that He REALLY loves me!!!
There is a very good reason that I have the world's greatest husband... He has the most amazing MOM... She is ALWAYS there when I need her. My mother-n-love is my Naomi... She is someone I can talk to and cry with. I don't have to worry about my house being clean or my every move being examined by her. I have heard so many horror stories about "the inlaws", but I have been so EXTRA-ordinarily blessed with the world's greatest!!! She makes me laugh and she tells me the truth. She treats me like a daughter and not "my sons wife"... She is my friend in every way. But, when it comes to needing something this is where she stands out from the rest... She just does whatever needs to be done. I never have to ask. Last night when I was just too emotionally exhausted to function she took care of everything without even needing to be asked... I love you DLG!!! You are AMAZING and NO ONE ever lets you know how wonderful you are, but you ARE the best part of our family!!!!! You are a HUGE blessing in my life...
In a day of Jersey Shore, DH of Hollywood, and The Bachelor you might be convinced that females cannot get along. Reality shows have shown the worst of girl relationships just like TV has us convinced there are no good men out there... This is such a shame. The friendship between two woman can be one of the most rewarding relationships. I have been so blessed with the best friends. I'm so thankful for my friend Gayla. She is a what the bible calls a "a virtuous woman whose value is above rubies". There is not an area in this life that we don't connect on. There is not a place where her wisdom has not touched my life. Gayla you make me laugh. You tell the truth in the most wonderful way. You lift me up when I'm down you and you bring me back to earth when I'm full of myself. I'm so thankful to be walking this narrow road with you. It's rare to know that another woman loves you and genuinely celebrates your success!!! YOU ARE A TRUE FRIEND. Thank you for being here for me when I have needed you. Thank you for all that you have done... babysitting, cleaning, listening, praying... I LOVE YOU!!!
In times like this the people who love you step up and do what needs to be done. They PROVE their love by their actions... I'm am so thankful. I am so blessed. God is so faithful and so true. JESUS IS ENOUGH. When the Bible says "My grace is sufficient for you. My strength is made perfect in your weakness." This is what it means... When the circumstances of this life are hard to bear God sends his grace and mercy so you can make it through. You all have been God's grace and mercy to me!!!
Sunday, August 28, 2011
The Do's of God.
One thing that has always confused me since becoming a Christian is why people who have not grown up in the church are zealous for Christ while so many of the people who have grown up in church are at best luke warm. This is NOT to say that that applies to everyone either way. It's just an observation.
I was 19 when I gave my life to Christ. I grew with very little Bible knowledge and we never went to church. By the age of 19 I had done many things I was ashamed of. I didn't really know anything about God and everyone around me was doing the same things as me so it wasn't an imposed guilt that I felt. It was something deep inside me that told me the life I was living was wrong. So, when I went to church one night because my mom had recently started going and begged me to go, I was SHOCKED by the message I heard from the pulpit. It was Christmas that night so I was sure I would hear about Jesus in the manger... But, instead the Pastor was talking about John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave his only son, that WHOSOEVER believes in him would not perish but have everlasting life." I had never heard such a thing. I knew God was my Creator and Judge, but not my REDEEMER. Jesus had come to redeem me, to set me free from all my baggage and bondage. NOW that was a message I could use. Like I said I knew God was my Judge, but I had never been told that God had loved me so much that He did something drastic about the situation I was in.
I decided right then and there that ANYTHING God wanted from me in return was perfectly fine, but I COULD NOT live one more moment without HIM. He was my SAVIOR, MY REDEEMER, and even now my FRIEND. What more could a person want? I zealously wanted to please my new Father. Don't get me wrong as a baby christian with no one to really lead the way I screwed up big time lots of times. I was confused and I even left everything behind to go back in the world at one time, but I LOVED GOD. He had been SO GOOD TO ME. I was not disciples in the ways of God.
Which brings me back to my former statement. I couldn't understand why people who had grown up in church would leave the Lord. I "thought" they knew better than I how to serve God and live for him, but what I found was a bunch of joyless drones who did what they "had" to do to get by. So many times I saw people who were just going to church because that's what you do. People my age who grew up in church were leaving in record numbers and trading in the blessedness of following Jesus for the world. I had been there before and I KNEW there was NOTHING out there. WHY were they leaving? Why didn't they love God or see what He had done for them?
I don't know all the answers, but I know some of it is home-life, and some of it perspective. Something else I have learned is too much of the time we Christians focus on the Don'ts of God and NEVER on the DO's of God.
There are over 600 laws in the word of God and everyone of them is for our Good, but the I'm mostly talking about the 10 commandments.
I thought about those 10 laws and wondered what they would look like if they were the 10 Do's of God???
1. Do KNOW that there is ONE God and WORSHIP HIM.
2. Do realize that no one has ever seen God so we can't compare him to anything we know of.
3. Do call upon the name of the Lord WHEN you need Him and only use His name in Praise.
4. Do Keep the Sabbath holy and set it apart to rest with your family and worship him together.
5. Do Honor your Father and mother and DO live long and be prosperous because of that honor.
6. Do LOVE your neighbor and enemy and see every life as valuable.
7. Do be faithful. "It makes you feel better to do the right thing."
8. Do work hard and provide for your family. "It makes you feel better to do the right thing."
9. Do ALWAYS tell the truth. It makes you feel better to tell the truth.
10. Do be thankful for everything you have and realize that God is GOOD and He knows exactly what you need. Somethings you want are not good for you.
The big lie has always been that God is not Good, but for those of us who have been dead in our trespasses and sins KNOW that God is Good. Those of us who have lived apart from God and were desperate and lost without him know that HE alone satisfies. We know where we have been and never want to go back there. As for our own children who we are raising in the faith, we MUST pass on our zealous love for God and focus on the Do's of God. There is so much that we can DO in this christian life it's a shame so many focus on what we can't do.
I was 19 when I gave my life to Christ. I grew with very little Bible knowledge and we never went to church. By the age of 19 I had done many things I was ashamed of. I didn't really know anything about God and everyone around me was doing the same things as me so it wasn't an imposed guilt that I felt. It was something deep inside me that told me the life I was living was wrong. So, when I went to church one night because my mom had recently started going and begged me to go, I was SHOCKED by the message I heard from the pulpit. It was Christmas that night so I was sure I would hear about Jesus in the manger... But, instead the Pastor was talking about John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave his only son, that WHOSOEVER believes in him would not perish but have everlasting life." I had never heard such a thing. I knew God was my Creator and Judge, but not my REDEEMER. Jesus had come to redeem me, to set me free from all my baggage and bondage. NOW that was a message I could use. Like I said I knew God was my Judge, but I had never been told that God had loved me so much that He did something drastic about the situation I was in.
I decided right then and there that ANYTHING God wanted from me in return was perfectly fine, but I COULD NOT live one more moment without HIM. He was my SAVIOR, MY REDEEMER, and even now my FRIEND. What more could a person want? I zealously wanted to please my new Father. Don't get me wrong as a baby christian with no one to really lead the way I screwed up big time lots of times. I was confused and I even left everything behind to go back in the world at one time, but I LOVED GOD. He had been SO GOOD TO ME. I was not disciples in the ways of God.
Which brings me back to my former statement. I couldn't understand why people who had grown up in church would leave the Lord. I "thought" they knew better than I how to serve God and live for him, but what I found was a bunch of joyless drones who did what they "had" to do to get by. So many times I saw people who were just going to church because that's what you do. People my age who grew up in church were leaving in record numbers and trading in the blessedness of following Jesus for the world. I had been there before and I KNEW there was NOTHING out there. WHY were they leaving? Why didn't they love God or see what He had done for them?
I don't know all the answers, but I know some of it is home-life, and some of it perspective. Something else I have learned is too much of the time we Christians focus on the Don'ts of God and NEVER on the DO's of God.
There are over 600 laws in the word of God and everyone of them is for our Good, but the I'm mostly talking about the 10 commandments.
I thought about those 10 laws and wondered what they would look like if they were the 10 Do's of God???
1. Do KNOW that there is ONE God and WORSHIP HIM.
2. Do realize that no one has ever seen God so we can't compare him to anything we know of.
3. Do call upon the name of the Lord WHEN you need Him and only use His name in Praise.
4. Do Keep the Sabbath holy and set it apart to rest with your family and worship him together.
5. Do Honor your Father and mother and DO live long and be prosperous because of that honor.
6. Do LOVE your neighbor and enemy and see every life as valuable.
7. Do be faithful. "It makes you feel better to do the right thing."
8. Do work hard and provide for your family. "It makes you feel better to do the right thing."
9. Do ALWAYS tell the truth. It makes you feel better to tell the truth.
10. Do be thankful for everything you have and realize that God is GOOD and He knows exactly what you need. Somethings you want are not good for you.
The big lie has always been that God is not Good, but for those of us who have been dead in our trespasses and sins KNOW that God is Good. Those of us who have lived apart from God and were desperate and lost without him know that HE alone satisfies. We know where we have been and never want to go back there. As for our own children who we are raising in the faith, we MUST pass on our zealous love for God and focus on the Do's of God. There is so much that we can DO in this christian life it's a shame so many focus on what we can't do.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
What do you need today???
Did you know the Word has it???
Psalms 19:7 "The law of the Lord is perfect converting the soul..." That word converted means to restore. Whether you need to be restored for the first time or for the 100th time God's word can do that. God's word can restore you to a right relationship with God. Since my heart is deceitfully wicked I need to be restored all the time.
v7 "the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple." Do you need wisdom? I don't know about you, but I do. I need wisdom, because I am learning that my ways are so far from God's way. After I have been restored to HIM then his word gives me wisdom and insight and understanding. God's word and his wisdom are the only ones that we can really trust.
v8 "The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart..." Do you need rejoicing today? Look to the word of God. His word gives us comfort in times of stress, mourning, or fear. Do you need reassurance of the future? Look to the word of God. Are you sad? OR do you just need the Joy of the Lord? Look to the word of God.
v8"...the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes." The word of God is a light to our path and a lamp to our feet. I don't know about you, but I NEED to know what to do next. I need the security of knowing that I'm going God's way. God's word can lead us.
v9 "The fear of the Lord is clean enduring forever." The word of God can bring us to a place of respect and awe of God and that fear will bring us to a place of repentance and we will be clean and pure before God.
v9 "the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether." We can trust the word of God, because He is good and true and righteous. We can trust God and His word. That gives me comfort because people will let you down. People have agendas, but God is HOLY.
v10-11 "More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much find gold: sweeter than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is your servant warned: and in keeping them there IS GREAT REWARD." God's word is more valuable and satisfying than ANYTHING we could desire. The WORD of God will bless and reward the person who applies it.
I NEED the word of God for wisdom, direction, comfort, peace, reassurance of the future. I need to know what to do and I need to be reminded that this place is not my home. I need to be reminded of what my purpose is. Sometimes I just need to know that God sees me and every time I open the word of God he speaks to me to let me know He does see me, AND HE will never leave me or forsake me. He has a plan for my life that sometimes includes suffering and pain, but ALWAYS leads to righteousness and that not only is He preparing a place for me, but He is preparing me for a place. I need the word of God to conform me to the image of Jesus. I need the word of God to help me not love this world and want to fit in here. God's word has EVERYTHING I need.
Psalms 19:7 "The law of the Lord is perfect converting the soul..." That word converted means to restore. Whether you need to be restored for the first time or for the 100th time God's word can do that. God's word can restore you to a right relationship with God. Since my heart is deceitfully wicked I need to be restored all the time.
v7 "the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple." Do you need wisdom? I don't know about you, but I do. I need wisdom, because I am learning that my ways are so far from God's way. After I have been restored to HIM then his word gives me wisdom and insight and understanding. God's word and his wisdom are the only ones that we can really trust.
v8 "The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart..." Do you need rejoicing today? Look to the word of God. His word gives us comfort in times of stress, mourning, or fear. Do you need reassurance of the future? Look to the word of God. Are you sad? OR do you just need the Joy of the Lord? Look to the word of God.
v8"...the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes." The word of God is a light to our path and a lamp to our feet. I don't know about you, but I NEED to know what to do next. I need the security of knowing that I'm going God's way. God's word can lead us.
v9 "The fear of the Lord is clean enduring forever." The word of God can bring us to a place of respect and awe of God and that fear will bring us to a place of repentance and we will be clean and pure before God.
v9 "the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether." We can trust the word of God, because He is good and true and righteous. We can trust God and His word. That gives me comfort because people will let you down. People have agendas, but God is HOLY.
v10-11 "More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much find gold: sweeter than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is your servant warned: and in keeping them there IS GREAT REWARD." God's word is more valuable and satisfying than ANYTHING we could desire. The WORD of God will bless and reward the person who applies it.
I NEED the word of God for wisdom, direction, comfort, peace, reassurance of the future. I need to know what to do and I need to be reminded that this place is not my home. I need to be reminded of what my purpose is. Sometimes I just need to know that God sees me and every time I open the word of God he speaks to me to let me know He does see me, AND HE will never leave me or forsake me. He has a plan for my life that sometimes includes suffering and pain, but ALWAYS leads to righteousness and that not only is He preparing a place for me, but He is preparing me for a place. I need the word of God to conform me to the image of Jesus. I need the word of God to help me not love this world and want to fit in here. God's word has EVERYTHING I need.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Charles Spurgeon on Motherhood.
This is a wonderful excerpt from taken from Charles Spurgeon's book Spurgeon’s Practical Wisdom {or Plain Advice for Plain People} about the influence of mothers.
MOST men are what their mothers made them. The father is away from home all day, and has not half the influence over the children that the mother has. The cow has most to do with the calf. If a ragged colt grows into a good horse, we know who it is that combed him. A mother is therefore a very responsible woman, even though she may be the poorest in the land, for the bad or the good of her boys and girls very much depends upon her. As is the gardener such is the garden, as is the wife such is the family. Samuel’s mother made him a little coat every year, but she had done a deal for him before that : Samuel would not have been Samuel if Hannah had not been Hannah. We shall never see a better set of men till the mothers are better. We must have Sarahs and Rebekahs before we shall see Isaacs and Jacobs. Grace does not run in the blood, but we generally find that the Timothies have mothers of a godly sort.
Little children give their mother the headache, but if she lets them have their own way, when they grow up to be great children they will give her the heartache. Foolish fondness spoils many, and letting faults alone spoils more. Gardens that are never weeded will grow very little worth gathering ; all watering and no hoeing will make a bad crop. A child may have too much of its mother’s love, and in the long run it may turn out that it had too little. Soft-hearted mothers rear soft-headed children ; they hurt them for life because they are afraid of hurting them when they are young. Coddle your children, and they will turn out noodles. You may sugar a child till everybody is sick of it. Boys’ jackets need a little dusting every now and then, and girls’ dresses are all the better for occasional trimming. Children without chastisement are fields without ploughing. The very best colts want breaking in. Not that we like severity; cruel mothers are not mothers, and those who are always flogging and fault-finding ought to be flogged themselves. There is reason in all things, as the madman said when he cut off his nose.
Good mothers are very dear to their children. There’s no mother in the world like our own mother. My friend Sanders, from Glasgow, says, “The mither’s breath is aye sweet.” Every woman is a handsome woman to her own son. That man is not worth hanging who does not love his mother. When good women lead their little ones to the Saviour, the Lord Jesus blesses not only the children, but their mothers as well. Happy are they among women who see their sons and their daughters walking in the truth.
He who thinks it easy to bring up a family never had one of his own. A mother who trains her children aright had need be wiser than Solomon, for his son turned out a fool. Some children are perverse from their infancy ; none are born perfect, but some have a double share of imperfections. Do what you will with some children, they don’t improve. Wash a dog, comb a dog, still a dog is but a dog : trouble seems thrown away on some children. Such cases are meant to drive us to God, for he can turn blackamoors white, and cleanse out the leopard’s spots. It is clear that whatever faults our children have, we are their parents, and we cannot find fault with the stock they came of. Wild geese do not lay tame eggs. That which is born of a hen will be sure to scratch in the dust. The child of a cat will hunt after mice. Every creature follows its kind. If we are black, we cannot blame our offspring if they are dark too. Let us do our best with them, and pray the Mighty Lord to put his hand to the work. Children of prayer will grow up to be children of praise; mothers who have wept before God for their sons, will one day sing a new song over them. Some colts often break the halter, and yet become quiet in harness. God can make those new whom we cannot mend, therefore let mothers never despair of their children as long as they live. Are they away from you across the sea? Remember, the Lord is there as well as here. Prodigals may wander, but they are never out of sight of the Great Father, even though they may be ” a great way off/’
Let mothers labor to make home the happiest place in the world. If they are always nagging and grumbling they will lose their hold of their children, and the boys will be tempted to spend their evenings away from home. Home is the best place for boys and men, and a good mother is the soul of home. The smile of a mother’s face has enticed many into the right path, and the fear of bringing a tear into her eye has called off many a man from evil ways. The boy may have a heart of iron, but his mother can hold him like a magnet. The devil never reckons a man to be lost so long as he has a good mother alive. O woman, great is thy power! See to it that it be used for him who thought of his mother even in the agonies of death.
MOST men are what their mothers made them. The father is away from home all day, and has not half the influence over the children that the mother has. The cow has most to do with the calf. If a ragged colt grows into a good horse, we know who it is that combed him. A mother is therefore a very responsible woman, even though she may be the poorest in the land, for the bad or the good of her boys and girls very much depends upon her. As is the gardener such is the garden, as is the wife such is the family. Samuel’s mother made him a little coat every year, but she had done a deal for him before that : Samuel would not have been Samuel if Hannah had not been Hannah. We shall never see a better set of men till the mothers are better. We must have Sarahs and Rebekahs before we shall see Isaacs and Jacobs. Grace does not run in the blood, but we generally find that the Timothies have mothers of a godly sort.
Little children give their mother the headache, but if she lets them have their own way, when they grow up to be great children they will give her the heartache. Foolish fondness spoils many, and letting faults alone spoils more. Gardens that are never weeded will grow very little worth gathering ; all watering and no hoeing will make a bad crop. A child may have too much of its mother’s love, and in the long run it may turn out that it had too little. Soft-hearted mothers rear soft-headed children ; they hurt them for life because they are afraid of hurting them when they are young. Coddle your children, and they will turn out noodles. You may sugar a child till everybody is sick of it. Boys’ jackets need a little dusting every now and then, and girls’ dresses are all the better for occasional trimming. Children without chastisement are fields without ploughing. The very best colts want breaking in. Not that we like severity; cruel mothers are not mothers, and those who are always flogging and fault-finding ought to be flogged themselves. There is reason in all things, as the madman said when he cut off his nose.
Good mothers are very dear to their children. There’s no mother in the world like our own mother. My friend Sanders, from Glasgow, says, “The mither’s breath is aye sweet.” Every woman is a handsome woman to her own son. That man is not worth hanging who does not love his mother. When good women lead their little ones to the Saviour, the Lord Jesus blesses not only the children, but their mothers as well. Happy are they among women who see their sons and their daughters walking in the truth.
He who thinks it easy to bring up a family never had one of his own. A mother who trains her children aright had need be wiser than Solomon, for his son turned out a fool. Some children are perverse from their infancy ; none are born perfect, but some have a double share of imperfections. Do what you will with some children, they don’t improve. Wash a dog, comb a dog, still a dog is but a dog : trouble seems thrown away on some children. Such cases are meant to drive us to God, for he can turn blackamoors white, and cleanse out the leopard’s spots. It is clear that whatever faults our children have, we are their parents, and we cannot find fault with the stock they came of. Wild geese do not lay tame eggs. That which is born of a hen will be sure to scratch in the dust. The child of a cat will hunt after mice. Every creature follows its kind. If we are black, we cannot blame our offspring if they are dark too. Let us do our best with them, and pray the Mighty Lord to put his hand to the work. Children of prayer will grow up to be children of praise; mothers who have wept before God for their sons, will one day sing a new song over them. Some colts often break the halter, and yet become quiet in harness. God can make those new whom we cannot mend, therefore let mothers never despair of their children as long as they live. Are they away from you across the sea? Remember, the Lord is there as well as here. Prodigals may wander, but they are never out of sight of the Great Father, even though they may be ” a great way off/’
Let mothers labor to make home the happiest place in the world. If they are always nagging and grumbling they will lose their hold of their children, and the boys will be tempted to spend their evenings away from home. Home is the best place for boys and men, and a good mother is the soul of home. The smile of a mother’s face has enticed many into the right path, and the fear of bringing a tear into her eye has called off many a man from evil ways. The boy may have a heart of iron, but his mother can hold him like a magnet. The devil never reckons a man to be lost so long as he has a good mother alive. O woman, great is thy power! See to it that it be used for him who thought of his mother even in the agonies of death.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Love is...
Remember the comic strip "Love Is..." Love was always some action that you could do. I'm sure that they got this from God's Word. I Corinthinians 14... The famous love chapter as I've heard it called.
Love suffers long, and love is kind;
love does not envy,
love does not brag on itself,
love is not arrogant.
Love does not behave itself rudely,
love does not seek it's own way,
love is not easily angered,
and love thinks no evil.
Love does not rejoice in iniquity,
but it rejoices in TRUTH.
Love bears ALL things, endures ALL things,
hopes ALL things.
LOVE NEVER FAILS.
"Greater Love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13
Real Love is Jesus laying down his life for us. Real love is while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. Real love goes FAR above and beyond what is required. Real love hurts. Real love requires sacrifice and surrender. Love is an action. Love is a decision. Real love is not something you and I are capable on our own. Real love is something that takes lots of practice so we are given lots of opportunities to express Real love.
As a mom and wife I am learning that there is always a choice. Will I love my family this time? What about this time or the next time??? Love is patient, love is kind... Have I been that today? If not then I have not loved. Have I been easily angered? Do I keep records for the wrong done unto me (even by my children)? Then I have not loved!!! I promise they know the difference between when I have loved and when I have not... If we say we have loved God, but do not love others then we have lied... (james)
Love covers a multitude of sins (done to us). The only way we can love like this is with the Spirit of God because... "God is LOVE", but even then love is not something that comes natural to us. We have to cultivate a spirit of love. We have to water it and weed it and grow love strong in our lives. We have to take every opportunity to share love with those around us especially our family. This is our ministry from God as wives. Love is our calling as the of children of God.
All you need is LOVE. Please help me to LOVE like you do Lord, because I'm no good at this. Help me to love beyond what I feel at any given moment!!!
Friday, February 19, 2010
Failure is not fatal...
I have been joking with people lately about why in the world God would allow me to have 3 children and one on the way if He knew I have absolutely no wisdom in raising children. I asked the same thing a few years ago when my husband and I were struggling in our marriage. Why didn't God show me everything I needed to know before marriage. Now don't get me wrong I know most of my lack of knowledge is because I so proud that I thought I knew EVERYTHING. WOW. WOW. My Preacher says something to the effect of "The older I get the more I see that I really don't know anything." Isn't that the truth.
I have had a lot of friends lately talk to me about their own struggles in marriage. Some have said they just don't know what to do and they think the situation is hopeless. Really I do know how you feel. BUT, I'm starting to see that God allows us to fail in anything we do because that is the only time we will run to him and say we don't know what we are doing and we need His WISDOM. Think about it. Where do you run for advice before things get really bad? Me, 1st the Internet, 2nd a TV show, 3rd a book or magazine. And, some of these things MIGHT sometimes have a good tidbit here or there of advice, but that's it. OH, YEAH the big one. Our Girlfriends, Moms, Sisters, the lady at walmart... And, again some of the people in our life MIGHT really be Godly council. BUT, from where do we need to seek WISDOM and GUIDANCE? You already know... God's word and Prayer, but WHY are these always last resorts?
The Bible is filled with TRUTH for every situation... It is amazing that when we ask God He really does begin to give us wisdom liberally just like James says. I mean I have been reading stuff lately that I have read 1000 times and just now I'm gleaning parenting truths from passages that before I didn't even know could be applied to parenting. It is ridiculous now that I look back as ALL the things I have TRIED and now after just asking for God to give me wisdom He begins to show me all these wonderful TRUTHS. Not that I have arrived. Far from it. Just like in marriage. I thought that I knew what I was doing after God showed me from His word. BUT, God is showing me over and over and over how I have to be connected to the Vine and that I have to be walking in the Spirit. Carnal minds cannot understand Spiritual things. And no matter how far I think I have come my mind is very carnal and my heart deceitfully wicked.
Back to the topic at hand. I am so thankful that with God what He says is true. "AND WE KNOW that all things work together for the good to them that love God, to them who are called according to HIS purpose." Who would have thought that my failures would bring for the righteousness of God?!?!?! Don't let your failure keep you down. I'm so thankful that David says in Psalms that GOD remembers that we are just dirt. Can you believe He takes dirt and make sons and daughters out of it?! Is my God amazing or WHAT?!
But, now to the hard part. Now that we know that failure is not fatal we have to have GRACE upon others. We have to allow our children to fail. We have to allow our spouses to fail. We have to allow our Spiritual leaders to fail. We all know the saying "People learn from their mistakes!" Let's give eachother a break and allow our failures to make us better. Give ourselves a break and don't allow our failures to hold us back. Let our failures show us just where God can give us wisdom and knowledge. To God be the Glory for our failures and successes. IF WE GLORY LET IT BE IN CHRIST JESUS...
I have had a lot of friends lately talk to me about their own struggles in marriage. Some have said they just don't know what to do and they think the situation is hopeless. Really I do know how you feel. BUT, I'm starting to see that God allows us to fail in anything we do because that is the only time we will run to him and say we don't know what we are doing and we need His WISDOM. Think about it. Where do you run for advice before things get really bad? Me, 1st the Internet, 2nd a TV show, 3rd a book or magazine. And, some of these things MIGHT sometimes have a good tidbit here or there of advice, but that's it. OH, YEAH the big one. Our Girlfriends, Moms, Sisters, the lady at walmart... And, again some of the people in our life MIGHT really be Godly council. BUT, from where do we need to seek WISDOM and GUIDANCE? You already know... God's word and Prayer, but WHY are these always last resorts?
The Bible is filled with TRUTH for every situation... It is amazing that when we ask God He really does begin to give us wisdom liberally just like James says. I mean I have been reading stuff lately that I have read 1000 times and just now I'm gleaning parenting truths from passages that before I didn't even know could be applied to parenting. It is ridiculous now that I look back as ALL the things I have TRIED and now after just asking for God to give me wisdom He begins to show me all these wonderful TRUTHS. Not that I have arrived. Far from it. Just like in marriage. I thought that I knew what I was doing after God showed me from His word. BUT, God is showing me over and over and over how I have to be connected to the Vine and that I have to be walking in the Spirit. Carnal minds cannot understand Spiritual things. And no matter how far I think I have come my mind is very carnal and my heart deceitfully wicked.
Back to the topic at hand. I am so thankful that with God what He says is true. "AND WE KNOW that all things work together for the good to them that love God, to them who are called according to HIS purpose." Who would have thought that my failures would bring for the righteousness of God?!?!?! Don't let your failure keep you down. I'm so thankful that David says in Psalms that GOD remembers that we are just dirt. Can you believe He takes dirt and make sons and daughters out of it?! Is my God amazing or WHAT?!
But, now to the hard part. Now that we know that failure is not fatal we have to have GRACE upon others. We have to allow our children to fail. We have to allow our spouses to fail. We have to allow our Spiritual leaders to fail. We all know the saying "People learn from their mistakes!" Let's give eachother a break and allow our failures to make us better. Give ourselves a break and don't allow our failures to hold us back. Let our failures show us just where God can give us wisdom and knowledge. To God be the Glory for our failures and successes. IF WE GLORY LET IT BE IN CHRIST JESUS...
Thursday, February 18, 2010
The Man and the slave...
I remember the day like it was yesterday... I was a slave on the selling block. I don't remember how long I had been there. It could have been days or years. I had had many owners before. I had been beaten, bruised, and used. I no longer had any value of my own. The sun was beaming down and I knew every one could see the dirt staining me. All those people just staring and laughing. I heard the comments "Who would want her." "Shouldn't they just throw her away." "What's the point of her life?" It was constant and I KNEW they were right. I had lost hope long before that it would ever be different. That would take a miracle...
One day that started out like all the rest I was standing in the Hot sun listening to the comments, wishing for death to relieve this shame and humiliation. All of sudden there was a commotion... A man walking up and everyone could tell that this man was not like the rest. He was good and pure and I don't know how I knew it, but I did. Something about this man was like no other. I watched Him with lowered eyes curious what He would do. Who was He looking for? The slaves with strength and grace? I was sure there were plenty up there who could meet His need whatever that might be, but I knew He would never even see me.
After a few minutes I just looked off and went to some other place in my mind. As I stood there unaware of what was going on around me I felt a hand on my chin lifting up my head. I had not been touched in that way for a long time. When people had touched me it was either harsh or forceful. This touch was gentle and kind. I looked up startled by this touch right into the eyes of the most amazing man I had ever seen. He smiled and turned to the rest of the stunned crowd that was watching and said I'll take this one. I didn't even know what He said because the words were so foreign. For a moment He left me there to go haggle for my price. I think the man in charge said the man could just have me, but this man refused. He said he wanted to pay the greatest price for me...
In a daze I went along with this man as he took my hand and led me to his home. He told me many things on the way. Things like I was no longer a slave. He said I had many brothers and sisters and that He would adopt me in his family. He told me that no matter what He would never leave me or forsake me. He said He would never abuse or use me. He said He loved me with an unconditional love that even He said I would never understand, but it was true anyway. As He talked He said "I really wanted you to listen and believe, because it would really make a difference." He seemed to always be telling me wonderful things.
As much as I wanted to believe these things I just knew it was too good to be true. So, I continued to think like a slave. I tried to earn his love, but I knew I never could. I ran away many times. On one of those times I had run back to the chains of slavery He came after me and this time things went terribly wrong. I had sold myself back to a horrible master. When the man came chasing after me this time the slave master said my freedom would cost more than the man could pay. The man would have pay with His life if he really wanted me to be free... To my shame and horror that is exactly what the man did. Right there in front of my eyes He gave His life for me. There I was FREE, but at such a GREAT PRICE. Why had my freedom cost His life. For three days I just sat there. Stunned by the actions of this man. Paralyzed by guilt. Then all of a sudden something too amazing to believe happened. The man who had laid down His life for me was standing in front of me. ALIVE AGAIN. Standing there with an outstretched hand. I would never be the same after that day.
Because of what He had done I now believed that He could do anything He said. I believed if He loved me then I must be worthy of more than slavery. I was convinced and I will never be the same again...
John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believes in Him will not perish, but have everlasting life."
I Cor 6:20 "For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's."
Romans 8:15 "For you have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but you have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby, we cry, Abba, FATHER."
Phil 1:6 "Being confident of this very thing, that He which began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus."
Thank you Heavenly Father for the MAN who laid His life down to REDEEM me. I am unworthy!!!
One day that started out like all the rest I was standing in the Hot sun listening to the comments, wishing for death to relieve this shame and humiliation. All of sudden there was a commotion... A man walking up and everyone could tell that this man was not like the rest. He was good and pure and I don't know how I knew it, but I did. Something about this man was like no other. I watched Him with lowered eyes curious what He would do. Who was He looking for? The slaves with strength and grace? I was sure there were plenty up there who could meet His need whatever that might be, but I knew He would never even see me.
After a few minutes I just looked off and went to some other place in my mind. As I stood there unaware of what was going on around me I felt a hand on my chin lifting up my head. I had not been touched in that way for a long time. When people had touched me it was either harsh or forceful. This touch was gentle and kind. I looked up startled by this touch right into the eyes of the most amazing man I had ever seen. He smiled and turned to the rest of the stunned crowd that was watching and said I'll take this one. I didn't even know what He said because the words were so foreign. For a moment He left me there to go haggle for my price. I think the man in charge said the man could just have me, but this man refused. He said he wanted to pay the greatest price for me...
In a daze I went along with this man as he took my hand and led me to his home. He told me many things on the way. Things like I was no longer a slave. He said I had many brothers and sisters and that He would adopt me in his family. He told me that no matter what He would never leave me or forsake me. He said He would never abuse or use me. He said He loved me with an unconditional love that even He said I would never understand, but it was true anyway. As He talked He said "I really wanted you to listen and believe, because it would really make a difference." He seemed to always be telling me wonderful things.
As much as I wanted to believe these things I just knew it was too good to be true. So, I continued to think like a slave. I tried to earn his love, but I knew I never could. I ran away many times. On one of those times I had run back to the chains of slavery He came after me and this time things went terribly wrong. I had sold myself back to a horrible master. When the man came chasing after me this time the slave master said my freedom would cost more than the man could pay. The man would have pay with His life if he really wanted me to be free... To my shame and horror that is exactly what the man did. Right there in front of my eyes He gave His life for me. There I was FREE, but at such a GREAT PRICE. Why had my freedom cost His life. For three days I just sat there. Stunned by the actions of this man. Paralyzed by guilt. Then all of a sudden something too amazing to believe happened. The man who had laid down His life for me was standing in front of me. ALIVE AGAIN. Standing there with an outstretched hand. I would never be the same after that day.
Because of what He had done I now believed that He could do anything He said. I believed if He loved me then I must be worthy of more than slavery. I was convinced and I will never be the same again...
John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believes in Him will not perish, but have everlasting life."
I Cor 6:20 "For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's."
Romans 8:15 "For you have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but you have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby, we cry, Abba, FATHER."
Phil 1:6 "Being confident of this very thing, that He which began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus."
Thank you Heavenly Father for the MAN who laid His life down to REDEEM me. I am unworthy!!!
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Why is it so easy???
To point fingers, place blame, forget our vows, and break the covenant we made with our spouse and God?
I have a friend who is going through a separation. Although I believe with all of my heart that God is going to intervene in this situation it makes me reflect on the tendency to throw away our marriages like so much trash. Where has our loyalty gone, where has our concern gone for our children? Why is it so easy to walk away?
Marriage is a Covenant (an oath, solemn contract made between God and man) whose terms are dictated by God.
Matthew 19:5-6 Jesus says "For this cause shall a man leave Father and Mother, and cleave (be joined) to His wife; and They two shall be one flesh. Therefore they are no longer two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man put asunder."
That verse should serve as a WARNING to people. Remember we made an oath to the Almighty "FOR BETTER OR WORSE". The terms specified and dictated by God. What this world says is okay behavior doesn't apply to His children. Why do we think God overlooks our sin and gives a get out of marriage free pass. We are fooling ourselves. And like so many other sins the consequences of divorce are devastating and undeniable.
Let me say this LOUD and CLEAR. I don't care how amicable your divorce is. I don't care what reason you give. Remember it takes two and because Jesus has forgiven me for EVERYTHING I too can forgive ANYTHING. I don't care how well-adjusted your children seem... There are ALWAYS consequences to Divorce. One study says that children who have had a parent die are much more emotionally healthy than the children of divorce. Believe me I know I am a adult child of Divorce.
Even if you don't believe in Divorce and you just have an attitude of unforgiveness and bitterness you are in sin. Jesus said if you go to give your gift at the alter and remember your brother has aught against you leave your gift and go make it right with your brother. We are so self-righteous. We need to go back and take a good look at the words of our Savior. He said they will know you're my disciples if you LOVE one another. No greater Love hath any man than that He lays down His life for His friends. We say we are Christ Followers, but we can't love and forgive our spouses. How dare we preach to the rest of the world... I know this sounds pretty harsh, but you can be sure that God showed me myself FIRST. My heart is deceitfully wicked above all else and I have a tendency to justify my sin and cling to the wrongs done to me. We have to get rid of our self-righteousness and learn how to LOVE. Because Christianity is not about Good works it's about LOVE.
I have a friend who is going through a separation. Although I believe with all of my heart that God is going to intervene in this situation it makes me reflect on the tendency to throw away our marriages like so much trash. Where has our loyalty gone, where has our concern gone for our children? Why is it so easy to walk away?
Marriage is a Covenant (an oath, solemn contract made between God and man) whose terms are dictated by God.
Matthew 19:5-6 Jesus says "For this cause shall a man leave Father and Mother, and cleave (be joined) to His wife; and They two shall be one flesh. Therefore they are no longer two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man put asunder."
That verse should serve as a WARNING to people. Remember we made an oath to the Almighty "FOR BETTER OR WORSE". The terms specified and dictated by God. What this world says is okay behavior doesn't apply to His children. Why do we think God overlooks our sin and gives a get out of marriage free pass. We are fooling ourselves. And like so many other sins the consequences of divorce are devastating and undeniable.
Let me say this LOUD and CLEAR. I don't care how amicable your divorce is. I don't care what reason you give. Remember it takes two and because Jesus has forgiven me for EVERYTHING I too can forgive ANYTHING. I don't care how well-adjusted your children seem... There are ALWAYS consequences to Divorce. One study says that children who have had a parent die are much more emotionally healthy than the children of divorce. Believe me I know I am a adult child of Divorce.
Even if you don't believe in Divorce and you just have an attitude of unforgiveness and bitterness you are in sin. Jesus said if you go to give your gift at the alter and remember your brother has aught against you leave your gift and go make it right with your brother. We are so self-righteous. We need to go back and take a good look at the words of our Savior. He said they will know you're my disciples if you LOVE one another. No greater Love hath any man than that He lays down His life for His friends. We say we are Christ Followers, but we can't love and forgive our spouses. How dare we preach to the rest of the world... I know this sounds pretty harsh, but you can be sure that God showed me myself FIRST. My heart is deceitfully wicked above all else and I have a tendency to justify my sin and cling to the wrongs done to me. We have to get rid of our self-righteousness and learn how to LOVE. Because Christianity is not about Good works it's about LOVE.
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