The Life I Now Live

Expired Coupons: Wait! Don't throw them away.

2010-05-10T11:19:00.000-07:00

For so many people, expired coupons end up in one place--the trash. But, wait! Don't throw them away. Military families overseas can use coupons that have expired for six months after the stated expired date.

If you are interested you can visit Overseas Coupon Program to adopt a base.

Some suggestions for preparing your coupons are:

Separate the coupons into two categories: food and non food
Clip the coupons removing any edging. (This helps to save on dead space when mailing.)
Get your community involved

This is a wonderful commuity service project for churches, schools, or community groups
Place boxes where people can easily drop off coupons.

So what do they do with the coupons once they receive them at the base?

Well, volunteers sort through them and place them on tables at the entrances to the exhange and commissary so that shoppers can choose the ones they like before shopping.

Is the postage tax-deductible?

Mailing the coupons is not tax-deductible, but rather a wonderful way to help other families.

Just a few resources

2010-04-25T13:57:00.000-07:00

When I first began making adjustments to living on one income, I first began using coupons, lists, and sticking to the buget. Then as time progressed, I started to become more aware off all the assistance that is available to help individuals and families spend frugally.

So I thought I would share with you just some of the resources that I use to help me with being more frugal minded.

BLOGS

There are several frugal blogs that I follow that provide daily deal updates. The ones that I regularly follow are:

Keeping the Kingdom First

A Proverbs Wife

Store Sites

There are several stores that provide coupons if you visit their site such as:

Target--The good thing about Target is that you can combine one of their store coupons with a manufacturer coupon

CVS

Food Lion

Publix--Publix accepts competitor store coupons to use in conjunction with a manufacturer coupon

BABY

If you have a baby, I would also recommend that you sign up for the baby programs at:

Winn Dixie

Publix

Food Lion

They often mail out coupons for items such as formula, baby food, etc.

Printable Coupons

Other printable online sites are

Coupon.com

Red Plum

Discounts

Often stores offer discounts for all sorts of groups such as students, seniors, or military. If they do not have a sign posted, ask the cashier.

There are several stores that offer military discounts.

Old Navy--1st of every month 10%

Walgreens--Tuesday of every week 15% off each item 20% off of Walgreen brands

Rack Room Shoes

Foot Locker

Hallmark--10%

I you have any good tips that you would love to share, please leave a message.

Living on one income

2010-04-13T04:51:00.000-07:00

It has been almost three years since Christ spoke to my husband and I regarding my transition from the workplace to a stay-at-home mom. I will admit that I had several apprehensions at first. One of the largest concerns I had was how were we going to maintain our lifestyle on just one income. Just the thought of how we were going to handle our finances would cause me to begin stressing and I was still working. Even then, Christ reminded me to trust Him. With each passing day, Christ has continued to be our provider. As for me, In addition to allowing my faith in Christ to grow, I have learned to be more frugal with how I shop.

Now, I have never been the big spender type. I have always thought multiple times before I would spend my money, but that does not mean I was still spending wisely. Being on one income, I wanted to move more wisely with what God had given us. That led me in several directions.

There are several techniques that I have been using that have been wonderful not only for our family, but has allowed us to be a bigger blessing to the lives of others. Over the last year, I save more than 50% or more with each shopping trip. This includes food, baby products, clothing, and more. For example, in one trip to CVS I purchased 1 pack of Huggie diapers, 1 pack of Huggie Pull-Ups, 2 Fuze drinks, 1 Avenno lotion, and 1 ROC facial cleanser for only $2.98 after coupons.

Strategies that currently work for me are:

Plan:

Each week, I try to plan out what shopping I plan to do for this week. My shopping usually is revolved around my weekly lunch and dinner meal plan for my family and whatever great deals I may see in the Sunday sales papers. I have a list for each store that plan to visit along with whatever coupons may match the deals.

If you have children, plan to take your snacks with you so that you are less likely to spend money on food based upon their hunger. Plus, it is hard to shop when you have one or more little ones complaining about being hungry.

Coupon:

Before becoming a stay-at-home mom, I used coupons here and there. If I had one great, if not oh well. Now, I don't go anywhere without my coupon bag. (Yes, I did say bag). Each Sunday, I purchase at least two newspapers so that I am able to get the weekly coupons. In addition, I visit the printable coupon sites such Coupon.com to see what other great coupons I can find. At first, I thought that couponing could not make that much of a difference until I started seeing the difference at check out.

Organize

My system has been revamped multiple times as I am learning what works best for me. As a mom of four boys, it is a rare treat if I am able to go shopping alone; therefore, I have learned how to organize my space and time so that I am able to shop and keep the little ones happy. I have created an organize system for my coupons, for my reusable bags, and how I take care of my stockpile of items. In addition, I have a corkboard that I use to help me keep up with the rebates that I have sent in.

Subscribe

There are so many wonderful blogs and websites that are designed to help you save your money while being able to enjoy the items you love to have. Instead of spending my time going to each site, I have subscribed to their site and get their updates in my email. This is great and simple for me. So when I have time, I am able to sit and go through what I need while not taking up too much of my time.

Rebates

If a product offers a rebate mail it off. Just this past week I received a $15 rebate from Olay for purchasing three of their products. I only spent $3.52 out of pocket to purchase the items that I already use but was able to get a $15 rebate making my purchase not only free but a profit of $11.48. Be sure to read the requirements carefully and mail it off as soon as possible.

Transitions

2010-03-26T06:30:00.000-07:00

My little one is growing up. At 6 months, we decided to let him try a sippy cup to begin the transition off of the bottle. I was simply amazed at how well and how quickly he took to it. When I first put it in his hands, I watched him look at it, look at me, put it in his mouth and then take it out. He knew it was different. Then after a few moments, he absolutely loved it. So much so that whenever I would give him the bottle, he would push it to the side. After about a week, he wouldn't even take the bottle at all. Regardless to how hungry he was, if his milk was not in a cup then he wouldn't drink it.

Watching my children grow up, sometimes it is easy to identify the transition they have going from the "baby" to the "big boy" stages. They let you know they don't want their bottle, but instead want a cup. They let you know they don't want a pull-up, they want big boy underwear like daddy. They will eagerly share that they can "do it all by myself".

Yet, sometimes we get in the way of the transitions that we go through as adults to lay aside those things that hinder us from going to the next level . We can miss walking in a new level of faith because we want to hold on when it is time to let go. We can try to hold on to that bottle, which may be fear, rather than graduate to the next step because at least we are familiar with where we are than to go to the unknown. We each have those areas of childish things that hinder us from growing up in Christ. It up to us to decide if we are will to grow up. When we are then Christ is always right there to help guide us through.

"When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me." 1 Corinthians 13: 11 NIV

No more armadillos

2010-03-01T18:57:00.000-08:00

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.” 1 Peter 5: 8-9 NIV

Devotional for March 1-7, 2010

Early this week while driving along, I happen to catch a glimpse of some sort of animal walking along the sidewalk. At first, I wasn’t sure what it was, but then much to my amazement, it was an armadillo. Outside of the zoo, I have never seen an armadillo in person. I was quite excited about my recent sight and even more surprised that it was walking about during the daytime. Actually, I think I was more surprised to see it given where we live.

Armadillos are interesting little creatures with their hard shells, strong claws, and a keen sense of smell. Although they are small animals, they can do quite a bit of damage. These animals are known to use their small claws and legs to dig burrows under all sorts of environments that are dark and preferably next to water. Given the influx of building, many armadillos have resorted to burrowing under sheds, homes, porches, businesses, even driveways. In an effort to find a place to live and to get to food to thrive, armadillos will enter foundation openings or create a space in order to have some place to live. Since these animals are poor climbers, it is quite common for them to fall inside of the borrow under a home, business, etc. causing them to become trapped which eventually leads to their death. This then results in a foul smell that permeates throughout the structure. When a home or business becomes infested with an armadillo, the appreciation value of the home decreases by 5 sometimes 10 %. This does not include the fact that armadillos carry the bacteria that can cause leprosy and salmonella, or contribute to a person or animal contracting rabies or tapeworms.

Unfortunately, we can have armadillos in our lives. We can minimize the impact of relationships that have begun to create a toxic build up in our walk with Christ by being distracters simply hiding those familiar spirits that have caused us to sin in the past. Our armadillos can be pride in which we find ourselves constantly focused on what “I do” and “If it were not for me”. The armadillos in our lives may even be the condition of our hearts in which we have allowed bitterness to creep into our foundation creating a separation between Christ and ourselves. The armadillos in our lives are simply those areas that seek to separate us from our relationship with Christ.

When we do not go to Christ or are obedient to His Word, we allow sin to come into the foundation of our relationship. If we do not repent, then those areas only become worsen and lead to other sort of problems. For bitterness will lead to anger and in some cases lead to hatred. Just like the armadillo not only creates problems but can inflect others, we are able to inflect others with our nasty attitudes, sinful mannerisms, and coldness of heart. It is up to us to decide to allow Christ to be our pest control and purge us of those areas that only will lead to more destruction.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, who is the source of all that I am, I am thankful to be able to call upon your name. Lord, I pray that you may reveal to me those areas in my life that separate me from you. Show me the relationships, the choice, the areas that lie within me that are distracters. I pray for wisdom to know when to move, who to allow in my live, and what decisions you would have me to make. Forgive me Lord for those things that I have done as a result of sin. I pray that you may continue to renew my mind and keep my feet on the path that you have set for me. Lord I pray that I may not be judgmental or condescending toward others, but instead help me to be patient and show compassion. I love you Lord, in Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading

Monday 1 Peter 5: 8-9

Tuesday Ephesians 6: 11-14

Wednesday Romans 6: 12-23

Thursday Ephesians 4: 26-27

Friday James 4: 7

Saturday Proverbs 2: 27

Sunday 1 John 1: 7-10

Application

Allow God to remove the armadillos in your life.

If you would like to receive these weekly devotionals, click here.

Free Photo book for our Troops

2010-02-22T17:46:00.000-08:00

As a military wife, I am always thankful for the opportunities that are provided to our troops. This new program is a wonderful way to brighten the day of any deployed loved one. Plus it is free!

According to the website:

"This amazing new program is designed to provide comfort and support for our troops stationed anywhere with an APO/FPO or MPO mailing address. You can make a 20 page soft cover photo book using your own digital pictures and send it to your family and friends far from home. Each free book can contain approximately 50-60 photos. The USO even pays for the shipping! It’s a $17 value, ABSOLUTELY FREE*.

Each book is 5 x 7 and includes 20 pages (additional pages available at extra cost). It's designed to be lightweight and fit neatly into fatigue cargo pockets. It’s a great way to share memories of home with those far away."

Click here to visit the site.

Thanks Thrifty Tiff for sharing.

So in love

2010-02-08T18:41:00.000-08:00

“37Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' 38This is the first and greatest commandment. 39And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' 40All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." Matthew 22: 37-40 NIV

Devotional for February 8-14, 2010

In my mind, I can still recall that very first moment my eyes met with his. Oh, how handsome he was standing there smiling at me as if he had waited his whole life for that moment. Yes, I recall the butterflies that tickled my belly with excitement from the first moment we met, to the moment he professed his love for me, even to the moment I became his wife. Even now, that excitement still flutters when I hear him come through our front door. That excitement still flourishes each time I hear him say those three wonderful words, “I love you”.

Before meeting my husband, I really did not quite understand the love that can exist between a husband and a wife. I didn’t understand the connection that grows from that love. When my husband came into my life, I had never had any man love me so unconditionally that he could see my faults but still choose to love me anyway. I was/am amazed at how much love lives in his heart for me. Yet, I understand now that his ability to love me overflows from his ability to love God.

As people are preparing to celebrate or cringe over an upcoming Valentine’s day, I started reflecting what it means to be in love with God. People are going to buy all sorts of items to find that perfect gift that shows their love. Hallmark and American Greetings have hired all sorts of writers to capture those special words that convey just how much others mean to us. But when was the last time we gave Christ a valentine? What do we do to show God and others that we are so in love with Him?

Here in Matthew 22: 37-40, Jesus provides us with very clear ways to show our love for Him. We are to love Christ above everyone and everything else. Our love for Him should come before our love for our spouses, our children, our careers, everything. He guides us to love Him with all our heart or our affections. We are to love Him with all of our soul, or rather life. Out of our love for Him we will give our lives for Him in time, service, and obedience. Simply, we choose to live our life in His will. He guides us to love Him with our mind. Then out of the love we have for Him we are able to love others.

When we are in love with a person, we crave to be near them; to know all we can about them; to tell everyone about that special person. Being in love with Christ is no different. Our love for Him should cause us to crave to be near Him through prayer, devotion, worship, and praise. Our love should drive us to learn all we can about Him. To know more about Him we are to seek Him above all else. When we are in love with Christ, we can’t help but tell others about Him. We will want others to know the joy and the peace we have found in our Heavenly Father.

Prayer
My Heavenly Father, who is my creator, my provider, my healer, my director, my all—there just does not seem a way worthy enough to thank you for being who you are in my life. With each day that passes, I am in more awe over who you are. There is never a moment that you are not in perfect control over every situation. I thank you that you seek to have everything for my good. Lord, I am so thankful to be a receiver of your love and I pray that my love for you may grow with each moment of every day. Show me how to draw closer to you in every area and every relationship in my life. I want to allow my love for you to grow so vast that it touches everything that I touch. Thank you for loving me so much that you sent your son to die on the cross for my sins. Lord, your love overwhelms me. I love you so much, in Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Matthew 22: 37-40
Tuesday John 14: 21-24
Wednesday Deuteronomy 10: 12
Thursday 1 Corinthians 13: 1-13
Friday Mark 12: 32-24
Saturday Deuteronomy 6: 5
Sunday Luke 6: 27-35

Application
Fall more in love with Christ and allow that love to overflow to others.

Seemed Right

2010-02-01T17:22:00.000-08:00

"The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice." Proverbs 12: 15 NIV

Devotional for Feb. 1-7, 2010

Tears were flowing down his cheeks as he struggled to pull it loose. The more he struggled the tighter the knot became. He yanked. He grunted. He was frustrated. Yet, in spite of all of that, he would not ask for help. I sat in the kitchen watching our four year old try desperately to get his balloon string unattached to a toy that he was using as an anchor. Determined to do it on his own, he would not ask me for help.

So there I sat, watching and waiting. Seeing his tears, I thought surely he would take my help. Gently I asked, "Baby, do you want me to help you?" "No, I can do it myself" was his quick reply. Again, I just continued to sit and watch. Then it happened. The toy broke and the balloon was still attached. It was after realizing that he had broken the toy that he came to me saying, "Momma, will you please help me? I broke it. Can you fix it?" Standing there with the broken toy in his hand, he came to me with tears in his eyes and outstretched hands. He came to me with expectancy.

It just amazes me how one situation with a child can speak volumes to our relationship with Christ. There have been too many times in my life where I have continued to try to handle things on my own. I foolishly told myself that I can handle this or I have this under control. At no point did I go to God, because in my mind, I didn't need the help. Not only did I not see the need to go to God, I didn't see the point in even heeding the guidance of those God had placed in my life to counsel me. Unfortunately, it wasn't until something broke like my heart or a relationship that I realized that I needed God's help.

I can just imagine that God often sits and waits for us to finally get to the point in which we get past ourselves, or rather our pride, and come to Him for direction, for help, for strength. Just as I reached out to our four year old, God too reaches out to us. He provides for us His Word, the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and the counsel of our pastors, teachers, and others anointed/appointed to speak life into our lives. It is up to us to humbly submit ourselves to His direction when we seek Him in our personal devotion time, in prayer, and in His word. We don't have to wait until something is broken before we seek Him, but if that happens we serve a God that is always available to us. It is never too late to submit ourselves to His will if we are willing to come to Him with a repentant heart.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, I cannot thank you enough for being there with me every step of the way. Thank you for being there even when I didn't realize that I needed you in my life. Lord I pray that you continue to guide me in every way and in every area of my life. Lord I do not seek to solve any problem on my own, instead, I want you. I want your direction, your will, your peace. Guide me on this path so that I do not focus on what things may seem like but instead I continue to press toward the mark of the high calling. Thank you Lord that you have fashioned a plan and a purpose for me. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Proverbs 12: 15
Tuesday James 4: 10
Wednesday 1 Peter 5: 6
Thursday Proverbs 13: 10
Friday Proverbs 16: 18
Saturday Ephesians 2: 9
Sunday Proverbs 11: 2

Application
Choose to place your situation in God's hand instead of your own hands.

Seeking

2010-01-25T17:53:00.000-08:00

"8 Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. 9 Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. 10 Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. 11 Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. 12 Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced, 13 O descendants of Israel his servant, O sons of Jacob, his chosen ones." 1 Chronicles 16: 8-13 NIV

Devotional for January 25-31, 2010

Just as I was leaving the house, already five minutes late, my keys were nowhere to be found. I looked in my normal key keeping spot, nothing. Off I went to dig through my already full purse, and still nothing. I searched my bedroom, the bathroom, and even back in the car. Getting frustrated, I still could not find my keys. Where in the world could they be?

I don't know about you, but that little scenario has happened to me on more than one occasion. Plus, it always seems to happen when I am running behind to be somewhere. Of course, I guess I could just stop looking for them, but those keys are essential. But keys aren't the only things we diligently look for, especially when we think we are missing something we need. How many of us spent time seeking to find that one special person to love? Or spend our time seeking to find ways to make more money? We can put forth all sorts of time and effort searching for all sorts of things.

Yet, how often are we seeking draw closer to God? With the demands of daily living, it can become all too easy to just place God on standby, but God wants different for us. When we seek God through reading his word, worship, and prayer, He promises us:

Strength: "Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always." Psalm 105:4 NIV
Security: "One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple" Psalm 27:4 NIV
Provision: "33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33 NIV
Revelation: "'Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.'" Jeremiah 33:3 NIV
Rewards: "6And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him" Hebrews 11: 6 NIV

In seeking God, we build a more intimate relationship with Christ. In this relationship, we come to know Him beyond the clichés. We come to know Him as Lord and Savior. It is in seeking Him that we come to learn more about who we are, who we are created to be, and what His will is for our lives. If we can seek to have the degrees to further our careers or knowledge, why not seek the one who is able to provide increase regardless of qualifications or who is able to provide understanding with the knowledge? If we can seek to find the "one", why not seek the ONE? If we can seek to gain the things, why not seek the one who is able to provide all our needs and above our needs? I encourage us all to take more time each day seeking more of Him.

Prayer
My loving and merciful creator, I humbly come before you with thanksgiving in my heart. I give you all honor and glory Lord, for without you there is no life. Thank you Lord for giving me understanding with the knowledge. Thank you for providing strength during the times I feel weak. Help me Lord to continue to seek your face in every area of my life. There is no situation too big, no person so important, no priority higher than you. Forgive me Lord for placing anything or anyone as a priority in my life above my relationship with you. I desire to draw closer to you. I desire to have a more intimate relationship than ever before. In the name of Jesus I pray, amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday 1 Chronicles 16: 11
Tuesday Psalm 105:4
Wednesday Psalm 27:4
Thursday Hebrews 11: 6
Friday Jeremiah 33:3
Saturday Matthew 6: 33
Sunday Proverbs 8: 17

Application
Spend more time each day seeking more of Christ.

To receive weekly devotionals via email, click here.

Still Up

2010-01-18T18:57:00.000-08:00

“I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? 2 My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. 3 He will not let your foot slip— he who watches over you will not slumber; 4 indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. 5 The LORD watches over you— the LORD is your shade at your right hand; 6 the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; 8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” Psalm 121 NIV

Devotional for January 18-24, 2010

It is almost midnight and I am still up. Now, at one point, I could have said that my late night hours were simply due to being a night owl, but when you have four boys, with three of them being under 5, you come to learn to get as much as sleep as you can when you can. Needless to say, I was ready to turn it in for the night when our 5 month old suddenly began throwing up in his sleep. This was not just a little spit up, but rather all 8 ounces of milk coming back up. Formula was everywhere, but our little one just wanted to go back to sleep.

Quickly getting up, I turn him on his side. Once our little one was finished, I knew that my night was far from being over. Time ticked by as I removed his clothing and his bedding. It continued ticking as I washed him, placing fresh clothing on his body. Then off I went to the laundry to begin washing at 11 pm, only to return to find a dirty diaper that was now waiting to be changed. It wasn’t until almost midnight that I was able to finally have the little one back sound asleep, clean, and calm.

As I walked back to my room from the laundry room, I just chuckled to myself. How many nights have I found myself up taking care of the children way into the night ensuring that they are alright? How many nights have I stayed awake holding them in my arms, keeping them close while I comfort them from their aches and pains? Thinking of how I have cared for my own children, I began to think of how Christ has and continues to care for us. I thought of my own areas of sickness that have come in the form of sin, in which He has been there to care for me. There have been so many times that Christ has cared for me in His arms helping me to heal from the aches and pains of life that I have encountered that sought to keep me discouraged, blind, and burdened. No matter how damaged I was, Christ has always been there for me with open arms for me to come as I was.

Although our bodies tire, thankfully, Christ is never does. He never sleeps. He is in all places at all times. So, He is there when we cry tears in the midnight hours. He is there when we are on the job. He is there when we are praying by the hospital bed. He is there when we don’t know how the bills are going to be paid. He is there when we lay our loved ones to rest. When we put our trust in Him, we are able to lay our heads to rest and trust that He is still up watching over us.

Prayer
Awesome and loving Father, I am so thankful that as I go about my day, you are always with me. You are my strength when I am weak. You are my guide along my path. You are a present help in a time of trouble. Thank you Lord for always being with me even when I don’t always realize that I need to reach out to you. Thank you for being my protector, my provider, my healer, my everything. I seek to continue to use everything I have to glorify you. Forgive me for trying to “help you out”. Instead I pray that I may seek you in all things and continue to be humbly submitted to your will. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Psalm 121
Tuesday Psalm 41: 2
Wednesday Isaiah 40: 26
Thursday 1 Peter 5: 6-7
Friday Psalm 4: 8
Saturday Psalm 127: 3
Sunday Jeremiah 33:3

Application
Trust that God is continuing to work on your behalf regardless of how things may seem.

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Up ahead

2010-01-11T06:50:00.000-08:00

“A man’s heart deviseth his way; but the Lord directeth his steps” Proverbs 16: 9 KJV

Devotional for January 11-17, 2010

The other day while driving on my way home from running errands, I sat listening to the traffic update on the radio. The announcer was stating that there was an accident on I-95, which closed one lane, so expect a delay if you were planning to get off on certain exits. It just so happened that one of the exits she listed was mine. Determined not to sit in lengthy traffic when it was getting close to dinner time while there were three very hungry boys in the back seats already complaining about “starving”, a decision had to be made. I decided to accept the warning and prepare to make a detour that would keep me away from the trouble ahead and get me home within a decent time.

For those who are morning commuters or for those who are eagerly trying to get home, having information about lanes that are closed, accidents, or traffic jams are particularly important. Knowing where delays are on your way to work, appointment, or school is helpful especially when you might have slept just a little too late or just couldn’t find that other shoe. It can change what stops you might plan to make or if you think you have enough gas to get you there. Ah, yes, those traffic updates can make a world of difference.

While I continued listening to the announcer, I began thinking on how God directs our steps while on this spiritual journey. He provides direction for us and enables us to recognize those incidents that can hinder us and/or take us off His path. He gives us warnings to take detours that help us in reaching our destination even though we may now have to take a different route. Those detours are available and revealed to us through the Word of God when we submit ourselves to His will, listen to guidance of the Holy Spirit, obey, and/or receive help from those God has placed in our lives to give us wise counsel. There can be delays in the form of unhealthy relationships, unassigned tasks, or excess weight. There can be accidents, some fatal, that come as a result of disobedience, doubt, and/or an unforgiving heart. Or even jams that may look like anger, pride, or bitterness.

Some lanes, or doors, may even be closed unless we repent for the sin that has caused us to stray from the path He created for us. It is God’s desire that we make it to the end of the journey, but He gives us the freedom of choice to trust and obey or doubt and disobey. It is up to us to choose to follow His path in obedience as He directs our steps. When we do, we are never forsaken and no weapon formed against us can prosper. We are more than conquerors to him who believes.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, it is a privilege to be able to come to you in prayer knowing that as I speak you are there listening to every thing I have to say. I cannot thank you enough for being with me in the moments of joy and being there to wipe every tear when I am hurting. Lord, I thank you for ever person you have put in my life to guide me along the path you have created for me. I pray that I may listen to the prompting of the Holy Spirit in every situation possible. I continue to submit my will for yours. Have your way in every area of my life. For I know that it is you who gives me strength, peace, and joy in spite of every situation around me. I love you Lord and I am thankful that you first loved me. In Jesus name, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Proverbs 16: 9
Tuesday Proverbs 3: 5-6
Wednesday 2 Thessalonians 3: 5
Thursday Psalm 37: 3-5
Friday Hebrews 6: 17
Saturday Jeremiah 10: 23
Sunday Proverbs 19: 21

Application
When making decisions, be obedient to the guidance of Christ.

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Shaking it off

2010-01-04T18:31:00.000-08:00

Devotional for January 4-10, 2010

"Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall." Psalm 55:22

In a household full of boys, there are bound to be multiple cuts, bruises and falls. I cannot count the number of bumps and scratches that I have had to nurse, kiss, and pray over. Before becoming a mom, I really did not realize just how easy it is that kids hurt themselves. Often times, they get hurt just by tripping over their own feet. Yet, when it happens, I have been known to use one very well-known phrase, "Just get up and shake it off".

Just shake it off. Those four simple words are often our ways of teaching others not to allow that small something to be a stumbling block. It becomes our way of teaching that this is not something to be hurt by, to be distracted by, or in many cases, not even worth putting any attention to it. Actually in many cases, the phrase "shake it off" is often our way of saying "get over it", "move on", or "forget about him/her". So often my friends and I have guided each other to just forget about the most recent failed relationship in an effort to help each other heal or feel better about our pain. In our effort to guide others by just shaking it off, we can teach them to what is contrary to the Word.

Guiding others to shake it off in various situations is not the problem as long as we are applying what the Word guides us to do. When we experience heartache, disappointment, failure, it isn't enough to just shake it off. Instead we are guided to cast it on the Lord. By casting it, or rather giving it to Him, we remove the weight of our emotions and trust in Him instead. Why would God even bother guiding us to put our cares, concerns, and worries in His care if He didn't already know that these things would come? He knew that we would experience them, but He provides us all a way in which to walk through them in a spiritually mature way.

When we cast our care upon the Lord, He is big enough to not only care the weight but to also carry us through it. Casting our cares upon the Lord is a release from our need to be in control and to truly trust that He has everything in control. When we do, he gives us a freedom from the weight of the burden. So we don't just have to shake it off, instead we are able to be whole, complete, lacking nothing. His word promises us that by casting our cares on Him, He will sustain us through it all. We don't have to just "get over it" instead, God guides us on how to learn, how to grow, and how to be able to help others from the lessons we learn from our trials.

There is no burden to small that it cannot be taken to God. What better way to start teaching our children than when they stumble? Instead of telling them to get up and shake it off, we can take that teachable moment to guide them to take that pain to God. When your friends come to you from heartache or maybe anger from a situation at work, instead of guiding them to just "move on" guide them to cast it upon the Lord.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am truly thankful to be your child. I thank you that there is no burden in my life that is too heavy for you to carry. I am grateful that I am able to go to you at all times and you are always there. Help me to continue to apply your word to every area of my life. I pray that your Word may continue to live in me and that I may be a living example of you before others.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Psalm 55:22
Tuesday Isaiah 12:2
Wednesday Psalm 46:1
Thursday Proverbs 4:20-22
Friday Matthew 6: 34
Saturday Matthew 11:28-30
Sunday Romans 12:2

Application
When burdens come your way, cast them to Christ.

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Work out

2009-12-28T12:26:00.000-08:00

Devotional for December 28, 2009-January 3, 2010

“19) What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of Go, and ye are not your own? 20) For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s”. 1 Corinthians 6: 19-20 KJV

Another new year is once again coming our way. Just yesterday, while looking through the papers, I saw all sorts of exercise equipment on sale for those individuals who are planning to begin their new year with a new exercise regimen. Gyms are offering a variety of no monthly fees, free months, great new classes to bring in those new members who are planning to start fresh in the new year. Even I have plans for a work out schedule that I have hopes of executing in the new year.

Yet, while we do all the planning to get our physical bodies in shape, we should also be just as vigilant in working out the spiritual man in us. Let’s begin the new year by working out our faith as well. Just like there are workout plans for the physical man, God has provided a work out for the believer as well. Some of His plan for us requires us to:

Seek: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you” Matthew 6: 33
Pray: “Pray without ceasing” 1 Thessalonians 5: 17
Hear: “Wherefore, my beloved bretheren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” James 1: 19
Do: “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves” James 1: 22
Love: “This is my command, That ye love one another, as I have loved you” John 15: 12

These are but a few of exercises that we can do to live a life that is pleasing unto God. Each day we have the opportunity to exercise love to others regardless of whether they are able to return our love. We are able to exercise our prayer lives by praying for those who are lost, those who are hurting, and those that are sick. We are able to exercise our faith by trusting God in knowing that He alone is able to be our provider, our guide, and our Savior.

Prayer
Most heavenly and gracious Father, I am eternally grateful for your presence in my life. I am thankful to have your Word to guide me through every path. I don’t have to worry about having all the answers or focus on those things to come, for you have already worked everything to my good. Lord, I pray that I continue to build my relationship with you each day. I pray that I continue to exercise faith in all situations regardless of how they may seem. Thank you Lord for the teachers, the pastors, the evangelists, the prophets, and the apostles that you have raised up to help us as we continue to run the race of faith. Forgive me Lord for placing anything or anyone before you. I pray that my life may glorify you in all ways. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday 1 Corinthians 6: 19-20
Tuesday Mathew 6: 33
Wednesday 1 Thessalonians 5: 17
Thursday James 1: 19
Friday James 1: 22
Saturday John 15: 12
Sunday Proverbs 6: 3-4

Application
Spend time each day building your relationship with Christ.

Free

2009-12-21T08:04:00.000-08:00

16"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. 17For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him” John 3: 16-17 NIV

I am a couponer. Each week, I take some time to gather my coupons from the Sunday paper as well as subscribing to various websites that provide me with online printable coupons. As a matter of fact, I very rarely go out without my coupon bag placed somewhere within my vehicle. Most of my friends often laugh when they mention going to the store to get something and I quickly state, “Wait. I think I have a coupon for that”.

I have learned how to continue to use the products my family enjoys without paying the large prices. There have been several times when I have purchased over $100 worth of groceries for less than $10. The best shopping experiences are when I am able to purchase the items we use for FREE. Who doesn’t like to get something free? Since I have begun couponing, I have been able to take some of the items I have gotten free and donate them to other people and families. It is wonderful to be able to not only benefit from my frugal shopping, but it is even better to be able to bless others with it as well.

Most people love the idea of being able to get something free. What most people don’t realize about those free coupons is that, we may be getting the item free but the company has paid the price for that coupon to be available to us. The company is the one that is responsible for paying the cost with the varying stores so that the customer may benefit.

Well, it is similar with Christ. We often overlook one of the greatest treasures available to us personally and to share with others. We each have the opportunity to receive Christ as our Lord and Savior freely. We don’t have to wait until we get ourselves “right”. We don’t have to be a certain age. We don’t have to perform works in exchange for the benefits. All we have to do to receive Christ freely is to confess with our mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in our heart that God hath raised him from the dead and we shall be saved. Jesus paid the price in full for our sins when He died for all of us on the cross. In that action, He showed just how much He loved us then and continues to love us. It is up to us to decide if we are willing to accept Him in our lives as our Lord and Savior. Then all benefits become available to us. Praise God for Jesus!

Prayer
My Heavenly Father, I am very thankful for the sacrifice you sent for me. I thank you for Jesus shedding His blood for my sins. Thank you for the ones who prayed for me when I didn’t have an intimate relationship with you. I pray that I may continue to spread your gospel everywhere I go, bringing others closer to you. May I always be humble in service to you. Everything I have and everything I am, it is for your glory and your service. I pray that I may be sensitive to the prompting of the Holy Spirit in building your Kingdom. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday John 3: 12-18
Tuesday Job 31: 6
Wednesday Proverbs 15: 9
Thursday Psalm 16: 11
Friday Jeremiah 25: 5
Saturday Proverbs 17: 3
Sunday Psalm 26: 2

Application
If you have accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior, take time to celebrate Him being the head of your life. And . . . bless others by sharing Jesus (just like sharing coupons with others).

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Brother's keeper

2009-12-18T17:44:00.000-08:00

Watching how my older three boys have embraced our newest little one just warms my heart. In particular, Mr. P our two year old has taken it upon himself to be his brother’s keeper. If little P even whimpers, Mr. P is calling my name. He quickly tries to find out what is wrong and provide comfort. It common for me to find Mr. P holding his little brother’s hand, walking to the bassinet to watch him sleep, or place a kiss on his little cheek. He wants to make sure that his little brother is safe, happy, and comfortable.

While watching his sometimes, overly helpful, actions, I found myself reflecting on how we are to be with our brothers and sisters in Christ. Too often, it is easy to be detached from others even those in our local churches. We get caught up in our own world, or even say to ourselves, “That’s not my business.”

Yet, we are connected together. In watching our 2 year old feel so compelled to be concerned about his little brother, we ought to be concerned when we see others hurting or in need. Sometimes we can carry such a hardened heart, that when the Holy Spirit prompts us to give of our time, a kind word, our money, or our time in prayer, we don’t. You see, the root of Mr. P’s actions for his little brother is prompted out of his love. If we continue to carry out the love of Christ for others, then we won’t mind being used to be a blessing to help others.

Pop Ups

2009-12-05T12:51:00.000-08:00

Periodically, I receive pop-up reminders on my computer to update certain programs, remember particular dates, or are reminders to try new products. Usually, with this reminders they offer at least two options:

Option one: Update now, send now, purchase now. Regardless, this option provides you with the chance to do something NOW
Option two: Remind me later, sometimes they even allow you to choose the time frame that you want to receive said reminders.

There are times in our walk with Christ that we too are provided with the pop up reminders through the presence of the Holy Spirit. It is during these times that we are prompted to do or, in some cases, not to do something. Right then, we have at least two options. We can be odendient to the prompting of the Holy Spirit NOW like in option one. When we choose option one, we realize that obedience is better than sacrifice. We have chosen to submit ourselves to the will of God. We have made a choice to trust God. Yet, there is still option 2. Now, I would like to say that I always choose option one, but there are times that I know what I am guided to do but I still choose to handle things my own way. In option two, it is like saying, "Yeah, I know I am suppose to forgive, but you just don't know what she did to me"; or "I know that I am suppose to tithes, but I will get to it later". In the option two, we try to justify our behaviors to make ourselves feel that it is okay to do what we are doing.

As we continue our walk with Christ, we will always have a choice in which option we choose. Thankfully, God is a forgiving God. So when we choose option two, to handle things on our own, to choose disobedience, we are able to go to Him and repent of our wrong doings.

Thank God that he has given us the Holy Spirit to be that guide, but it is still our choice to choose option one or option two.

No More Lines

2009-11-30T18:59:00.000-08:00

Devotional for November 30-Dec. 6, 2009

"Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light,and your justice as the noonday." Psalm 37: 3-6 NIV

Watching my children develop has been quite an adventure for me. Recently, my two year has been going through his independence stage. One of his favorite sayings is, "I can do it by myself." So each day, we go through a series of activities in which he wants to do it without any of my help. It is not until he has the epiphany that he is unable to complete the task on his own that he cries out for help.

His very simplistic act spoke volumes to my spirit. So many of us, as believers, are often like my two year old. We have the areas in our lives in which we feel that we can control on our own. Then there are those areas that are too big for us, or are outside of our control, that we then cry out to God for help. Sadly, there should not be that distinction. We have created a line of I can do this myself and God because I can't do that I need your help.

Christ wants us to put EVERYTHING in His care; not just the things we cannot handle. There is anything too small or anything too big for Him to handle. We just need to learn how to take our hands off, stop trying to be in control, and trust that God knows what is best in every situation. Because the more we allow ourselves to foolishly think we can handle things on our own, we can allow a prideful even a disobedient spirit to creep in. We can begin to trust more in ourselves, our abilities, our credentials instead of going to God in all areas of our lives.

All throughout the Bible are scriptures which encourage us to TRUST in the Lord. The more we trust in Him, the more it is Him who moves in our lives. The more we can be lead of the Holy Spirit and less on our emotions. The more we are able to live our lives fulfilling His divine purpose for us instead of seeking vain pursuits. We must make the choice to remove the line, or rather the boundaries, we place on our relationship with God. It is up to us to say Lord you are welcome in every area and allow Him into even our most secret place. When we do, He will guide us every step of the way.

Prayer
My loving Lord and Savior, when I think how you shower me with your mercy and grace each day my heart overflows. Lord, please forgive me for trying to handle things on my own instead of surrendering every area of my life to you. It is my desire to have you guide in all ways and to lean on you and not in my own understanding. I thank you that even when I don't understand the big picture, you already know the beginning, middle, and end of every matter. Help me Lord to continue to trust you and to not move in fear. I thank you Lord, in the name of Jesus, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Psalm 37:3-7
Tuesday Psalm 91
Wednesday Psalm 22: 4-5
Thursday Proverbs 3: 5-6
Friday Isaiah 12: 1-2
Saturday Jeremiah 17: 5-8
Sunday Isaiah 26: 3-4

Application
Choose to give God all areas of your life.

Truly Thankful

2009-11-23T16:59:00.000-08:00

Devotional for November 23-29, 2009

"1) Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. 2) Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. 3) Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. 4) Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. 5)For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations." Psalm 100 NIV

This week people all across the United States will be gathering together to celebrate in the Thanksgiving holiday. Students anxiously await being released from school, while grandparents eagerly await until the moment they hear the footsteps of their grands come walking through the door. Dinners will begin being prepared early in the morning as seasoned football fans cheer on their favorite teams.

Thanksgiving is an old tradition for our country that dates back as far as 1621, when after a year of sickness, disease and death, the pilgrims set aside three days in December to praise the Lord. Later on, President George Washington changed the date to November 26 as a national day of Thanksgiving to the Lord as a response to Christ granting them independence from Britain. As years passed President Abraham Lincoln later revived the tradition to what it currently is today. You see, even then, the people realized the importance of setting time aside for giving thanks until the Lord. Unfortunately, the holiday, like so much, has become commercialized centered around food, football, and the ultimate shopping day--Black Friday.

Can you imagine how we would feel if people only showed appreciation to us for what we have done one day a year? How do you think that would impact your relationships? Well, why do so many of us hold on to our thanksgiving to Christ? In Psalm 100, the psalmist presents a call of worship and praise before the Lord. He challenges us to praise God in our words, in our service, and with singing. Offering praise and thanksgiving to God is not meant to be drab devoid of expression; instead it is reason for rejoicing.

As I reflect on the goodness of Christ in my life, I realize just how much I have to thank God for. You see, it isn't just about praising God for the blessings or favor, but it is also about thanking Him for grace and mercy in the trying times. I realize that every time I fussed about the person who almost hit me while I was driving is a chance to praise God for protecting me. It is about praising God that when I didn't have enough, He was able to provide. Truly, it is about being thankful that in spite of who I was, He loved me anyway. So, while you find yourself preparing the turkey, driving to visit loved ones, or even watching some football, take time out throughout your day to give thanks until the Lord for He has done mighty things.

Prayer
Awesome and loving Father, I am always amazed at your capacity to love me. When I think of how much you continue to be my strength, my provider, my healer, I am just full of thanksgiving and praise. Lord, there are not enough words that I could say to show my thankfulness for shedding your blood on calary for me, but I am eternally thankful. Thank you Lord for every person who has interceded for me. Thank you Lord that you have forgiven me and created in me a new creature in Christ. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Psalm 100
Tuesday Psalm 96
Wednesday Psalm 103
Thursday Psalm 111
Friday Hebrews 13: 5
Saturday 1 Peter 1: 18
Sunday Galatians 5: 9

Application
Spend time reflecting and giving God praise for all He has done for you.

Thanksgiving has presents

2009-11-15T09:55:00.000-08:00

While learning about Thanksgiving at school, my four year old cheerfully came home pronouncing, “Mommy we get presents at Thanksgiving.” Of course, my first thought was to sit down with him and explain that at Thanksgiving we do not get presents, but rather a time a time of giving thanks. Yet, he was right. At Thanksgiving, we have the opportunity to give so much.

During this season, we have the opportunity of giving the gift of forgiveness to those who may have hurt or misused us. We have the opportunity to give the gift of love not just to those who are able to return such love but also even to our enemies. We have the opportunity to give the gift of a Godly example by showing our family, our friends, our coworkers the joy in serving Christ. We have the opportunity to give the gift of our time by helping out in our community or our church in service. Most importantly, we can take this season to share with others Christ.

So, my little one was right. How about this Thanksgiving, we give choose to give presents.

My Lap

2009-11-01T12:14:00.000-08:00

Today while watching a little television, my lap was covered with children. We sat there on the loveseat as I held the baby in my arms while the two year old and four year old both clamored to get a piece of my lap. The more they each tried, the less room there was. Eventually, they figured out there wasn’t enough room for the both of them and that they would just have to take turns.

But. . .

But with God, we don’t have to take turns to get His attention, to gain out time in His lap, or to draw close to Him. Christ is so large and so awesome that we all are able to clamor to Him whenever we want. He is wonderful enough to have arms to hold all of us. His lap is big enough that we all can climb up and get close to him. How magnificent it is to serve a God that is so much more than we could ever be!

On my heels

2009-10-08T13:50:00.000-07:00

The other day, no matter where I went or what I was doing my 2 year old and 4 year old wanted to be right there. Sometimes they were so close to me that I would stumble just trying to walk from one place to the other. There wasn’t any place I could not go without them walking behind me or saying “I want to go toooooooo”. At times, they would even want to hold my hand just to walk from the kitchen to the living room.

Yet, I learned so much from their persistence. No matter what, they wanted to be with me. They wanted to be where I was. Imagine if we as believers would be that persistent in seeking God. Imagine what it would be like if we were to constantly want to be where He is, to do what He does, to simply constantly be with Him. Just imagine if we were to want to hold on to Him with the same tenacity that children can display.

Let’s take today to be closer to Him instead of waiting until tomorrow.

Mr. Snuggles

2009-10-04T19:05:00.000-07:00

My nickname for our youngest child is Mr. Snuggles. No matter where you put him, he finds a way to get closer to me. He wiggles; he rolls; he even scoots his way to be closer to either my husband or myself. It is just adorable. Once he snuggles up to us, off he goes to sleep.

His childlike desire to be close to us, reminds me of how we could be with Christ. I imagine how much He wants us to do whatever we can to get close to Him. The closer we are to Him, the more we are able to have the peace to rest in Him. I think that even God enjoys it when we want to snuggle close to Him.

Just like

2009-09-16T19:26:00.000-07:00

Every since we have had Paul, it has been funny to me to hear the comments people make regarding his features. Depending on who you talk to, he looks like my hubby and then someone else may say that he looks like me. He may have my lips, his dad’s nose, my hair, his dad’s smile, etc. Yet, regardless of the comments, there is no denying that he belongs to us, to our family.

Then I started thinking that we ought to have the features that are just like our Heavenly Father. People ought to see His patience, His love, His forgiveness in us. Think how wonderful it would be when people began to compare you to Christ that regardless of the differences you belong to His family.

So, each day, I take the time to meditate on how I am being just like Him and pray that others are able to see Him in me. What are you doing to be just like Him?

Change is happening

2009-09-03T14:03:00.000-07:00

Sitting watching a movie with some family and friends, my contractions began to get stronger and closer together. Finally, I could not hold back the tears any more. The pain was getting intense. Quickly, my husband and I were off to the hospital.

We were there. I was checked and was dilated to 4 ½ cm. After placing the monitor on my stomach to track my contractions and the baby’s heartbeat, they left us in the room alone. Every so often they would come back into the room to adjust the monitors because they could not track any contractions. Nothing was showing up on the machine, but the pain continued to get stronger. After a while, the nurses visits began to farther apart since they could not track any change. Yet, I knew that change was happening.

The doctor came in to check me to discover that I had dilated to 6 cm. They were surprised and quite shocked. There was change happening but they were unable to detect it.

This went on for another day before our little one made his appearance. For two days, my contractions were undetected by the machines but I continued to dilate.

You see, even though the machines, doctors, and nurses were trained to track the changes that were occurring in my body they were missing it. They couldn’t pick up what I knew was happening on the inside. Sometimes our change in Christ is the same way. We know that change is happening on the inside, but not everyone knows or is even able to detect that change. But in order for there to be a noticeable change on the outside, it has to begin on the inside.

Finally

2009-08-14T10:50:00.000-07:00

Well, after months of waiting, growing, and developing, we are pleased to announce that our fourth son, Paul Andrew Pack, made his appearance on July 28 at 5:05 a.m. Even though he was born a month early, there were no complications with the labor or with his health. God has blessed us with a healthy baby and a good recovery for me.

We are very thankful for all of you that have kept us in your prayers during this time. It truly has been appreciated.

I look forward to blogging with you soon.

Daddy will you?

2009-07-24T19:13:00.000-07:00

He stood there with his eyes connected to his daddy's and his arms outstretched. He knew the time had come for him to go bed. He was ready. His was dressed in his favorite monkey pjs, freshly cleaned teeth, the kiss from me still wet on his cheek.

In that moment he had one request.

"Daddy, will you carry me to bed?"

Without thought or hesitation, my husband scooped up our four year old and placed him securely in his arms. As he did, our son just laid his head on his daddy's chest and quietly went off to bed.

I sat there watching them and just thinking of the simplicity of our son's request, "Daddy, will you. . ." There wasn't any hesitation in his voice or even doubt that his father would carry him off to bed. I sat watching with a smile on my face at how he was comforted simply being in his father's arms.

How often is Christ waiting for our arms to be outstretched to Him? How often does He wait for us to simply call out to Him, "Daddy, will you . . .?" How often does He want to comfort us in the safety of His arms?

Oh, I am sure He waits for us to call out to Him, "Daddy, will you save my children?", "Daddy, will you help comfort me for I am weak?", "Daddy, will you guide me because I am lost?". No matter the question, the pain, the uncertainty, He will, without doubt, provide all we need. Are we willing to reach for Him? Are we willing to ask of Him? Are we willing to be carried by Him? Are we willing to allow Him to comfort us? It is up to us on how we choose to respond.

The Season is Near

2009-07-06T18:58:00.000-07:00

"But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. 8) He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit." Jeremiah 17: 7-8 NIV

With hurricane season upon us, people have already begun to prepare. Stores like Target, Walmart, even Winn Dixie are gathering those "must have" items for people who will prepare early for possible impacts or side effects of hurricane weather. Even our local paper is reminding residents on how to prepare, what the evacuation routes are, and what to do if you choose to stay during strong weather. Sadly, though, it seems that a good number of people will not begin to prepare until the hurricane is upon them. Then the items fly off the shelf and people are going from store to store looking for basic supplies to protect those people and things that are dear to them.

Yet, no matter how much we prepare, damage does happen. This is one of the reasons that when I begin to read Jeremiah 17: 7-8, I was touched. It is great for us to do our part in planning, but our faith and confidence is not in the wood to protect the windows, but rather our faith and confidence comes in our trust of the Lord. For Jeremiah reminds us that blessed in the person who not only trust God, but puts his/her confidence in Him instead of in things or people. That person understands that people are human capable of mistakes and failing just as things are fallible as well. God on the other hand, never fails, never wavers, and never makes mistakes.

When we place our trust in Christ, Jeremiah compares us to a tree that has been rooted by water. The root system of any plant is essential to its growth and development. Those plants or trees that have shallow root systems will eventually wither and die because they are received the nutrients that are needed to survive the varying conditions of the weather. Those plants that are rooted strongly are able to receive the nutrients, distribute them among its system, and become strong to stand in different conditions.

Jeremiah's comparison to the one who trusts in God to the tree rooted by water is profound. He shows us that this tree has no need to worry about heat because the roots are fed by the water from the stream. This water keeps the tree hydrated and strong even when the other plants around it have begun to be impacted by such high temperatures. This tree not only continues to be green, but it continues to bear fruit. We can be like such a tree. We are encouraged to place and continue to keep our trust and confidence in Christ. When we do, we have rooted ourselves in the living water of Christ that is able to keep us strengthen when everything and everyone around us say to quit, to give up, that we are too old, that things will never improve. Our roots in Christ remind us that we will flourish, we will grow, and we will bear fruit. We just must make daily choices to trust Him instead of ourselves.

Prayer

Most awesome and loving Father, it is amazing how you are always there regardless of the situation. Lord, I pray that you may continue to guide me to trust more in you and less in myself. I pray that I may place all of my cares and concerns at your feet and have the faith to know that you are working all things to my good. Strengthen me where I am weak, Lord. I pray that I may be able to encourage others to trust in you as I continue along my journey in you. In Jesus name, Amen.

Suggested Readings:
Monday Jeremiah 17: 7-8
Tuesday Psalm 1: 3
Wednesday Psalm 4: 8
Thursday Jeremiah 39: 18
Friday Isaiah 30: 18
Saturday Psalm 2: 12
Sunday Isaiah 12: 4

Application:
Trust God that He is able to take care of all your needs.

I can wait

2009-06-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, with only maybe a month left in my pregnancy, I often find myself saying "Oh, I cannot wait for this little one to get here." No sooner do I say it that I immediately take it back. You see, I have had preterm labor with my last two sons, one which included a one month stay in the hospital for me prior to his birth. Those pregnancies really taught me the value of time and waiting. Now, successfully 33 weeks and no preterm labor incidents, I can wait.

Yet, how often do we get anxious for something to happen because we have begun to get uncomfortable or even tired of the waiting process? If you have been pregnant, then many of you know exactly what I am talking about. But even you have not, having patience while God is in the process of working takes discipline. We are to condition our thought process, the words that come out of our mouths, and keep reins on our actions, especially when we are guided to just be still.

Time is not just valuable when a child is developing in the womb; it is valuable as we are developing in our walk with Christ.

Fatherhood

2009-06-20T09:38:00.000-07:00

For many years I have heard the saying that any man can make a baby, but not everyone can be a daddy. As Father's Day is upon us, I have stopped to consider all the men who have chosen to be spiritual father's, men who have chosen to be active father's in their child's lives, and men who have chosen to step in and be a father to children even when they are not the biological parent.

These men have chosen to have one of the most important roles that a child can have--a father.
Sadly, so much of media has portrayed fathers as the comic relief of the household, as a man who is incapable of taking care of his children, and/or as a man who lacks the desire to have an active role in the household. Very rarely are there the positive images of fatherhood that show children the importance of revering their father's. The news often shows the men who are the deadbeat dads, those who run from responsibility, or are womanizing.

But there are many men, who are standing the front line loving God, respecting their wives, and being examples before their children.
So what can we do?

As women, as wives, or even as mothers, we can impact the way we treat men. We have the ability to use our words to encourage them. We have the ability to intercede for them in our prayer time asking God to direct their tongue, to protect their minds, to guide them in being head's of the home. We have the ability to remind them that they are designed to be heads and not tails regardless of what society may say. We have the ability to say thank you and show our appreciation for who they are as God designed them to be. As wives, we have the abilities to respect our husbands so that we too help set the example in the home. As children, we can honor and be obedient to our fathers.

I am thankful for the men that have set positive Godly examples of what it means to be a father, a husband, most importantly a man after God's own heart. Each of these men have helped to dispel the damaging views I had of men and learn the value of men in God's plan. Most importantly, I am most grateful that there is an heavenly Father who is able to be a father to the fatherless.

Balance

2009-06-15T06:52:00.000-07:00

“23Then he got into the boat and his disciples followed him. 24Without warning, a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. 25The disciples went and woke him, saying, ‘Lord, save us! We're going to drown!’ 26He replied, ‘You of little faith, why are you so afraid?’ Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. 27The men were amazed and asked, ‘What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!’” Matthew 8: 23-27 NIV

Have you ever been to the circus? One performer in particular has recently caught a great deal of my attention—the tightrope walker. When I began my research on tightrope walkers, I was quite impressed. For tightrope walkers always continue forward while placing their balance on one of the weakest parts of the body—the ankles. Since they walk the rope with in line steps, their balance is shifted and placed upon the ankles. This is one of the reasons why they choose to use poles or place their arms out to their side. By doing so, they allow a portion of the balance to be shifted from the ankles and placed into the weight of the pole or their arms. Seasoned tightrope walkers always continue forward never taking their eyes off of their destination because if they linger to long in one place or look down they can loose their balance which ultimately causes them to fall.

Many of us walk tightropes in life. We do so much to balance being leaders, mothers, fathers, spouses, professionals, siblings, etc. that it becomes really easy to start placing trust in the wrong places and putting our strength in the weakest part. In balancing all that we do, it can become very easy to start trusting in our abilities, people, or even in the world’s system; all of which are weak. These things and people can only carry us so far. By trusting in all these other things, we can allow them to become distractions that take away from our fellowship, growth, and dependency in Christ.

When Jesus and the disciplines entered the ship to set sail on the sea of Tiberias, which was known for great storms, their focus was quite different. Off they sail, along with other boats, and Jesus goes of by himself to rest. While sleeping peacefully, a storm begins to rage all around them, knocking the boat to and fro, tossing water into the boat, causing great fear in the disciples and yet Christ still slept. His sleep was not a fretful one but rather one of great peace. The disciples, like us at times, was more focused on the great storm around them than keeping their eyes on who was with them. Just like the tightrope walker stumbles and falls when his/her eyes are taken off the destination, the disciplines became weak, gave into fear, and lost sight of the one who truly is the great protector.

Christ was able to sleep so peacefully in that boat because He knew more than anyone that His father was with Him. He was giving an example to them and us that even though storms and difficulties come, we can be at peace in, not ourselves, but the loving Father who is always with us. Even though the disciples focused more on the storm and took their eyes off of who was with them, they did know enough to run to Him. There they stood, shaking in fear, saying “We perish”. They understood that only Christ would be able to get them through the storm. We can learn from these disciples not to be so concerned about the storm that we forget that Christ is with us, but if we do, it is never too late to run to Him.

Prayer
My Lord and Savior, I am in awe of how much you truly love me in spite of all my flaws, my weaknesses, and my sins. I am thankful that even when the storms of life come, you are there to be my peace, my clarity, my protector. Help me to always be reminded that I do not have to fight the storm nor am I in the storm alone, but you are always with me. Forgive me for the times that I have tried to handle things in my own strength and in my own knowledge instead of seeking you. I pray that I may always have my eyes stayed on you. In Jesus name, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Matthew 8: 23-27
Tuesday Luke 8: 23-25
Wednesday Psalm 65: 7
Thursday Mark 4: 36-41
Friday Matthew 6: 30
Saturday Matthew 17: 20
Sunday Psalm 89: 9

Application
Keep your eyes on Christ and not the storms of life.

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More than special

2009-06-08T15:23:00.000-07:00

“3Then Jesus told them this parable: 4"Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.' 7I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” Luke 15: 3-7 NIV

Often times when we are in the world, we don’t realize just how special we are. We do things like settling, compromising, and tolerating actions and people because we think that is all that we may be worth. That something is always better than nothing. When I stop to look back over my life at the relationships that I had, there was a part of me that knew that God wanted better for me, but I thought that was all that I could get. We fool ourselves into believing that mediocrity can be hidden by a good job, good credit, etc.

Now, I realize that this is simply a tactic of the enemy. The enemy wants us to settle and accept less than what God has designed for us. In settling, compromise is a part of the deal. He wants us to stay attached to our sin by believing we are unlovable, that we have sinned so much there is no redemption, that we are forever damaged. When we stay in that state, it is hard to believe that anyone would want to truly love us so we settle or we can even go so far to damage relationships that are God ordained.

When I read Luke 15: 3-7, I am always uplifted and encouraged. In this simple parable is Christ’s way of teaching the people about His awesome ability to love. When I close my eyes, I can see the shepherd who has realized that one of his sheep has wandered away. In that moment, the shepherd could have just counted the loss and focused instead on the 99 he still had, but NO that one sheep was just as important as the 99 he still had. Off he goes to search for that one. When he finds it, it is a time of rejoicing.

I see in my mind that I, too at one point in my life, was like that sheep that had wondered away. Instead of Christ counting me lost, He sought me. Just like the lost sheep needed a shepherd to direct him back to the flock, when we accept Christ, He directs us from the lost to the found. He brings us back into His fold. We are so special to Christ that He seeks us out so that each of us may have a personal relationship with Him. It is His desire that none of us be without the covering of our father. You see, in seeking us, Christ knows our potential. Why would anyone seek something that was worthless? Each of us is priceless, that is why He choose to die for all of our sins. So I encourage you this day to celebrate, to praise, to be thankful for Christ who was and is willing to be our shepherd, seek us out, rejoice when we return, and restore us.

Prayer
Loving Father, I am so thankful to have a Lord and Savior who loves me so unconditionally. I realize that there is nothing so wonderful that I could ever say or do to desire your grace and mercy, but I am thankful that you offer it to me everyday. Thank you for seeking me out when I was lost and bringing me back into your loving arms. I pray that my mind, my words, and my actions may be pleasing in your sight. Help me to always have a praise in my heart for all that you have done and continue to do in my life. In Jesus name, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Luke 15: 3-7
Tuesday Matthew 18: 12-14
Wednesday 1 Peter 1: 5
Thursday Romans 5: 9
Friday John 6: 44
Saturday 1 Corinthians 6: 19-20
Sunday Luke 15: 8

Application
Allow God to show you just how special you are to Him.

Happily Ever After

2009-05-31T19:21:00.000-07:00

I guess you could say that I love a great romance story. Many of us grew up with the happily ever afters of Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, and Snow White as children. How wonderful it was to think of the love of your life coming along and then the both of you drift off to the happily ever after. Yet, as I started to grow from the girl to the woman, I started realizing that there were not too many happily ever after stories around me. Quite the contrary really.

Divorce, separation, and marriages of conveince were my norms. I was familiar with dysfunction. Of couples choosing to walk away instead of staying in the good and the bad. I was familiar with the yelling, the tension, the barks that buried words of love. Sure, I believed in the happily ever after, but how did people make it work?

Then while my hubby and I were still in the dating phase, he took me to meet his grandparents who were married for over 50 years. I was in awe. There they were flirting. I sat there watching his grandfather's eyes still light up with his wife would step in the room. I listened to their love stories as his grandmother's cheeks would blush at her husband's stories of how they met many years ago. Being in their presence suddenly made happily ever after real for me.

I started paying more attention not just to those who made marriage last, but even to those who marriages faltered. What was it?

So in these 5+ years that have been married there are a few lessons that I have learned which are:

Pray: Pray daily for and with your husband.

Learn when to be quite: There are times to speak your mind, share your thoughts, and times when to just listen. Husbands need to know that they can be open when they need too not just when it works for us.

It takes work: The happily ever after does happen, but it takes work. There is not a simple equation because every relationship is different, but each person has to do their part. Sometime the work is long, hard, and hurts, just as there are times it is easy, fun, and goes too fast.

Be willing to forgive: Conflicts will happen in a marriage, but how we handle those conflicts are up to us. We can choose to hold grudges, give silent treatments, or even withhold intimacy or we can choose to exercise the same forgiveness that Christ so freely offers to us.

Remember your relationship: Just because you are married, have jobs, and kids, don't forget to have time set aside for just the two of you.

Change does happen: As time progresses we all change, grow, and adapt. Don't be afraid to change.

I am thankful to the women who have taken the time to be voices of sound counsel for me as I continue my journey as a wife. No matter how much I think I know, I always remind myself that there is so much more to learn. So I look forward to continuing to expand this list and pass on the nuggets of wisdom to other wives as well.

Still there

2009-05-20T10:24:00.001-07:00

I don’t know about you all, but we have been having some strange weather for this to be May. It started Saturday when the weather drastically began to change from our normal 90 degree weather to dropping into the lower 70’s. Then the rain began to fall.

When have been experiencing consistent rain now for over four days. Much to my surprise, as I was standing looking at the rain from my patio, all sorts of baby frogs began to spring forth. I don’t know where they came from, but suddenly there they were. Different colors and sizes but a lot of them. My initial reaction was to jump back, but then I just began to watch and pay more attention to where they were and where they came from.

Sometimes when rain comes in our lives, it can expose those things that we didn’t even know were there, just like the frogs. Those frogs I believe were able to come out the way they did because the environment was right for them to expose themselves. Sometimes we can get so upset at the situation we are in that we overlook that it is the right environment for God to expose something about ourselves that we didn’t even know was still there. The rain just helps create the atmosphere so that we are able to know to pray more, seek God more, or even to do the work that God had been calling for us to do for a while.

So don’t detest the raining season, instead look at it as the right environment for exposure and growth to take place. It is so much easier to deal with what God has bought to the light than to stay in the darkness believing we are in the light.

So tired

2009-05-13T14:07:00.000-07:00

For the past two weeks, I have had a lot of trouble sleeping. Now although I know that my doctor says that this is common for some women during pregnancy, yet that knowledge brings me little comfort. My body is screaming for rest, but when I go to lay down for a nap or a rest, little sleep comes. With little rest everything seems magnified. The little noises that the children make sound like a live concert in which I am sitting in the front row. Chores that usually are the simplest to complete seem like climbing Mount Everest at times. The things that usually flow so easily for me are not at their best. But life goes on. There is still dinner to cook, clothes to wash, homework to check, and even my homework that must get done.

Yet, in everything, I know that there is something for me to learn or some growth in my walk with Christ. For the times that I am most tired are also the times that the enemy seems to try to work in those situations around me. During this season, I have learned to call on God more, have more of the private talks, and accept the changes/help He is providing me.

For many of us, when we are tired is when we usually come to the end of ourselves. We lack the energy, the patience, even the kindness at times that is needed when interacting with those we love, let alone those we don’t. It is during those times that we are able to see those small cracks that lie within.

Tiredness reminds us that there is only so much we can do on our own.

Sisterhood

2009-05-09T16:50:00.000-07:00

The journey that I have been on since beginning this blog almost a year ago has been one of transparency, discipline, growth and so much more. I wasn't sure what to expect, who would read, or even if I really knew what I was doing. As a matter of fact, I really didn't know what a blog was until I began. Then along the way, I started connecting with such wonderful women of God from all over the world who touched my heart with their generousity, honesty, faith, and just love for God. God seemed to know how to use these women and their words or stories of faith to be encouraging to not just me but so many others.

So to be awared the Sisterhood Award for my blog from Today's Christian Mom, I am truly thankful and blessed. Again it is just another reminder to continue to push forward. A part of receiving this award is to pass it on to other women of God who show an attitude of grattitude in their blogs. For me this is wonderful joy and a simple task. I pray that you will take some time to visit these Godly gems:

Simply for God

Getting Down with Jesus

Crowded Out

2009-05-04T17:35:00.000-07:00

Devotional for May 4-10, 2009

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6: 33 NIV

During this school year, my eldest son has had a lot of difficulty managing his time. It actually started at the beginning of the school year, when we decided that he could get ready for school at 6 a.m. It seemed early enough, but to our surprise, he was quite rushed and had to hurry to meet his bus at 7 a.m. So, we made the simple switch of changing his time to 5: 30 a.m., but that one switch impacted how he moved the night before.

Often times when we sit down to prioritize the areas of our lives, we can get so fixated on looking at creating a solution that we may miss the other parts that also need adjusting. In this case, our son thought that he could continue to stay up as late as he was before without having any consequences. It wasn’t until the first few days of waking up at 5: 30 a.m. that he began to notice that he was tired in the mornings and feeling sluggish. At first he didn’t understand why. That is when we explained to him that sometimes, when you change one area of your life, other areas are also impacted. He learned through trial and error that although he really wanted to stay up later the night before, it caused him to suffer the next morning.

Children are not the only ones that struggle with time management. It seems the older we get, the more responsibilities, commitments, and distractions we are faced to contend with. Many of us, go from living a life of singleness to becoming spouses and parents. We leave behind childhood to becoming responsible for our own careers and bills. That does not include the pulls of distractions that come along with television shows, movies, video games, iPods, or even the internet. We start of with good intentions, but somewhere along the way, 2 hours have past since you sat down to watch one tv show and now you are too tired to read your Bible or pray. I know! I have done it myself too many times.

If we are not careful, we can crowd God right out of our lives. God craves for us to fellowship with Him; to worship Him; to seek Him with all that we have. It takes us choosing to build our relationship with Him on a daily basis which requires us to be aware of the distractions and prioritizing those areas in our lives. There is nothing wrong with playing the video games, listening to the iPod, or watching a movie, but when allow these things to become distractions from seeking God, spending time building our relationship with Him, or as hindrances from serving Him, they become distractions. Each day we are charged with seeking Him in all sorts of ways that go beyond the Sunday morning service or a weekday Bible study. It is how we seek Him when we are alone, when we are at home, or even when we are on our job’s that continue to build upon what we may experience at those moments.

Prayer
My heavenly Father, thank you for providing a right now, living word to help guide and direct me in all my steps. Forgive me Lord for allowing the cares and niceties of this world to be distractions in my relationship with you. Guide me Lord on how to continue to build my relationship with you. Help me to recongnize and respond to those areas that are distractions. Help me to know your timing. In Jesus name, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Matthew 6: 33
Tuesday Hosea 10:12
Wednesday Psalm 27: 8
Thursday 1 Chronicles 16: 11
Friday Psalm 105: 4
Saturday Hebrews 11: 6
Sunday Isaiah 55: 6

Application
Spend more time with God this week and less on your distractions.

If you would like to receive these weekly devotionals in your email, click here.

By Many Names

2009-05-01T10:39:00.000-07:00

“Mommy”

“Momma”

“Ma”

Ah, yes! These are all me depending on the child, their health condition, and if they think they might be in trouble. All throughout the day, my children call me by there own rendition of these terms. It was interesting to me when my youngest son began learning that “Mommy”, “Momma” and “Ma” were all the same person. He would sit, look at me, then begin, “Ma”.

Of course, I would answer.

Then again, “Ma”.

Another answer from me.

Then he decided to make a change, “Momma”. He seemed a little unsure, so he kept his eye on me to see if I was indeed going to respond to “Momma”.

I answered.

Again he called out to me “Momma” which eventually lead to “Mommy”.

For several days he would go through this routine as if he were waiting to see that I was not all of those names.

He taught me a very big lesson. When we cry out to Christ, He answers to many names.

He is our Father. Our Counselor (Isaiah 9:6); our Creator (John 1:3); our Savior (Luke 2:11; 2 Peter 2:20; 3:18); and so much more.

Thank God that we are able to call out to Him, and He always answers.

False Labor

2009-04-22T10:43:00.000-07:00

Okay, not that I know it all, but three kids later, I think that I know enough to know when I am having contractions. Of the three boys I have now, I experienced preterm labor with the last two. At one point, I actually went into labor at 28 weeks with them both. My second child was born at 36 weeks exactly whereas my current youngest was born at 35 weeks. Because of all this, my doctors are keeping a close eye on my pregnancy and have deemed it high risk.

Of course, many of the books that I have read will talk about knowing the difference between contractions and Braxton Hicks. Although, I am currently 22 weeks along, every now and then I begin to feel a contraction. Immediately, I know that I need to take it easy so that I do not have a preterm labor incident on my hands. It wasn’t until that the doctors did an ultrasound that they were able to see for themselves that I was indeed having mild, erratic contractions. No surprise to me!

That got me thinking.

You see, for many of us, we know what it is like to be pregnant with a plan/dream from Christ. We know of the months of waiting, developing, changing that occurs for that dream to come into fruition. Some of us even know of the pain of labor that can sometimes occur with that dream going from a vision to a reality.

Yet, at times, even in the pregnancy stage, we can become fooled by the Braxton Hicks in our spiritual lives. Braxton Hicks are pains that occur relatively close together, are sometimes painful, and can fool you into thinking that it is time for labor. Unlike labor, the pain the Braxton Hicks cause produce no change. Sometimes when we are close to God bringing forth something in our lives, we must be aware of the false labors.

It is easy to get excited or impatient especially when you know first hand the promises or vision that God has given you of what is to come. But we must be aware of when we are being fooled by our emotions or the enemy versus when it truly is God’s timing for us to go forward. Even though the Braxton Hicks may cause no change, moving before God’s time can cause any of us to miss our season and our blessing.

Be patient, the laboring last for a moment but the fruit of your labor can be a lifelong change.

Simplicity of Children

2009-04-16T10:33:00.000-07:00

Being around my four year old during this pregnancy has been quite an adventure. I have truly enjoyed watching and listening to him process the changes that are happening. Most days he leaves me smiling if not laughing at the simplicity of his thoughts. Maybe his thoughts will bring a smile to your face as it has mine.

“Mommy, you can’t eat that food. The food is going to smother the baby.”

“Mommy, don’t bend down. You might push the baby out.”

“Mommy, does she have a belly in her stomach too? Her belly is big like yours.”

Ah, yes, the simplicity of children is priceless.

More than enough

2009-04-13T06:10:00.000-07:00

Devotional for April 13-19, 2009

“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” 2 Corinthians 9: 8 NIV

Making the transition from a full time working woman to a stay at home mom of three boys was not always an easy task. It all sort of trickled with returning home after an emergency c-section for my third son, experiencing “baby blues”, being stationed in a new state and city, along with my husband often being shipped out on “exercises” and eventually deployment. All of this was experienced in just the first two months of my new journey at home. Often times I would sit on my bed and wonder what in the world had I gotten myself in to.

There were many times I thought I was just loosing it all. My mind was scattered, nothing seemed to flow the way I thought it would, and I was just tired. Then it didn’t help that my eldest son was beginning to be openly defiant. It wasn’t suppose to be that way. Right? Several times I thought about going back to work just so that I would be able to get out of the house and get away from it all. Then just as soon as that thought would pop into my mind, guilt would wash over me. Surely a “good” mom would be able to handle all of this. I was just trying to make it day to day, in many cases moment to moment. How in the world did mom’s do this? Maybe I heard God wrong when He called me to transition from the classroom to the home? Did God really equip me to handle this?

I cannot tell you how many times I thought that I was not able to be the kind of wife and mother I felt my family deserved. Nor could I say how many times I would go to God feeling insecure, tired, needing Him. Yet, time and time again, God was always there reminding me that He did indeed fashion me and equip me for my husband and my children. He was always there to encourage me that in Him I am able to succeed. This is one of the reasons why I can relate to words that Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 9: 8.

No matter the situation, the challenge, or task at hand, God has given us ALL that we need. He gives us everything that is needed for our welfare. Just read the beginning of the verse, “And GOD is ABLE. . .” present tense. That means our God NOW is able to provide us with everything we need. He gives us the peace, the guidance, the motivation, the strength, the help, EVERYTHING we need. God is the ultimate giver. Just keep reading that God makes sure that we in “all times” we have “all things”.

When I learned to continually seek God for what I needed for this phase of my life, I was finally able to truly enjoy the journey. I went from overwhelmed, guilt ridden, and at times quite angry to being able to laugh, to have patience, to be thankful and so much more. With each part of the journey we all have we can choose to be trampled by the weight of it all or choose to stay reminded that God is always able and as long as we stay in Him, we can too.

My Lord and Savior, I cannot thank you enough for all the times you heard and answer my cries. Thank you for always providing your loving arms for comfort and your word for encouragement. In the times that I may feel that I am unworthy, unable, or unequipped, I know that your word says that I am more than able. I pray that I may keep your words continually pressed upon my heart so that if those thoughts come to mind, that I have the authority to cast them down. Thank you for fashioning me in your image. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday 2 Corinthians 9: 8
Tuesday Ephesians 3: 20
Wednesday Isaiah 40: 29
Thursday Philippians 4: 13
Friday Proverbs 22: 9
Saturday Psalm 46: 1
Sunday Psalm 73: 26

Application
Trust God that in Him you are able to complete the tasks that He has put before you.

If you would like to receive these weekly devotionals in your email, click here.

Make it your way

2009-04-09T14:40:00.000-07:00

A couple of Sunday’s ago, I read an article entitled “Should babies be made-to-order?” (Brumley, 2009, p. E1). Immediately, my interest was peeked. Doctors at Fertility Institutes in Los Angeles announced that they would provide genetic selection of eye pigmentation. Basically, parents would be able to choose the eye color of their child. The procedure is evasive and poses several threats to the mother and the unborn child.

It really saddened me to read this article that people would go so far to interject their own opinions on what is or is not beautiful or acceptable in an unborn child just for some cosmetic reason. It is bad enough that once the child is here that he/she will be bombarded with images of being skinny enough, tall enough, or having the “right’ kind of hair. These children will be faced with having the “right” looks to fit in, to be successful, or to just be considered “normal”.

Even now as I am progressing along my second trimester, I pray for a healthy baby. It does not matter to me if the baby hair color is brown or rainbow. It doesn’t matter if their eye color is the same as mine or not. When God fashioned this child, as He did me, He gave this child everything that is needed to complete the purpose and plan He created before the beginning of time.

Having a baby is not like placing an order for a kid’s meal where you can choose from 4 different drinking options or 5 different side orders. We don’t go through drive through choose the height, the intelligence, or anything else. Children are not meant to be like the vehicles we have built to fit our needs. They are created to fit God’s purpose.

Thankfully, many of the doctor’s that were interviewed from other practices were against this time of procedure with one stating, “Babies are not commoditites. They are human beings”.

Reference:

Brumley, J. (March 22, 2009). Should babies be made-to-order? The Times Union. E1 & E8.

My Boaz

2009-04-03T12:00:00.000-07:00

Over eight years ago, I walked into my pastor’s office for a talk. I was finally at a secure place in my life where I was focused on my walk with Christ and not on pleasing/keeping a man. My dedication was in learning more about Christ and allowing Him to teach me true love. Walking into my pastor’s office that day, I sat down and proudly proclaimed that I was ready to be a wife. I didn’t want to date, have boyfriends, or spend my time in something that was going to be unfruitful. I’ve done enough of that. Now, I wanted God to prepare me to be the wife He wants me to be. I was willing to wait for my Boaz.

Several of my then married friends offered all sorts of advice on how to prepare myself and what I needed to do to get the “perfect” husband. One suggested that I sit down and list all the traits and characteristics that I wanted in my husband and pray about it. Actually, I had several people make that suggestion, but it just didn’t sit well within me. I had already had a couple of relationships in which I tried to choose the traits that I thought a “good” man should have. Not this time.

Going to God I had only one request. One prayer.

“Lord, I want my husband to love you.”

I knew that by having a husband that loved God then he would be able to love me in the way that God intended. It wasn’t about the career, the education, the looks or anything else. It was about him having a heart that was focused on having and keeping God the priority.

Then entered my Boaz, Stanley Pack, Jr.

Now as we celebrate our wedding anniversary today, I am so thankful to have a husband in my life who truly loves God.

You see, I realized then that when choosing what I thought I would need in man, I was only able to choose based upon who I was at that time. God, on the other hand, knew the kind of Godly man I would need in my life then, now, and in the future. God knew the importance of my husband’s strength, his faith, his love, his ability to make me laugh, his financial savvy, or even his ability to look at me and make me feel as if I am the only one in the room. God knew what kind of example that needed to be in our home to our children, to the individuals I mentor, even as he and I walk in ministry together.

So today, if you have a Boaz in your life, don’t wait for an anniversary to celebrate. Let each day be a day of celebration and rejoicing of the gift that God has placed in your life. For those of you that are still single, trust God and be still in waiting. The man that God has for you is more than any man you could ever choose for yourself.

The Baby Tree

2009-04-01T08:58:00.000-07:00

For the past few days it has been storming pretty badly here. A couple of nights I was awakened to continuous flashes of lightening that were echoed by the booms of the thunder. I found myself turning on the weather channel to see what was going on, only to learn that a tornado had hit less than 30 miles from my home. When I awakened the morning after, I surveyed my neighborhood and yard to see if any damage had been done by the strong winds that blew. That was when I saw it.

A single baby tree.

A while back, our subdivision began cutting most of the trees that were close to homes in our neighborhood due to the high number of hurricanes that happen to visit our lovely state. When they did this, they cut down every tree that was visible, tall or small. But some way, this tree survived.

Not only did this tree survive, but it was different from the rest. It was not a thin pine tree like the others, but was instead a baby oak tree. How this tree managed to be placed here is unknown to me.

So, I stood there for a while on my patio starring at this single baby oak tree. There were older, stronger trees that were lying on the road from the being broken by the wind and even some younger trees that lay on the ground because they had become uprooted. Yet, this tree was still there, green and thriving.

It did not matter that a storm came or even that the tree was different from the rest. This tree was able to sustain it all. Oh, what I could learn from this tree. Storms are going to come in life, that is a given. But I have a choice to become uprooted, to break, or to stand firm like that single tree. Unlike the tree, I have a relationship with Christ that keeps me connected, rooted, and grounded so that I do not have to be swayed or broken in the midst of difficulties or situations.

Thank God for the root of the Blood of Christ which was shed for me that gives me hope, strength, and protection.

For Keeps

2009-03-27T13:37:00.000-07:00

Lately, I have been having my hand at organizing things around the house, particularly all of my scrapbooks and the multiple pieces that I have accumulated with this hobby. Instead of buying baby books for each of my children, I decided that I would make my own and continue with each year of their lives. This is my way of creating their own legacy that they would be able to take with them when they become men with their own families.

With each year, I collect all sorts of pictures, papers, drawings, or anything that I think would relate to what they were doing at the time. Currently, there are several containers for each child. I have the hardest time deciding what to keep and what to throw away. All of it is so special, to me at least. Alas, I cannot keep everything, or I would become overwhelmed and cluttered.

So each time that I sit to scrapbook a few pages, I decide to go through the items I have set aside to throw some things away, delete some of the pictures from the digital camera that are out of focus or just not the best. Then I began to think of the things that I have allowed myself to keep over the years.

Just as it is important for me to go through and get rid of those papers or whatnots, it is just as important to go to God for a good cleaning of what has been lingering within me. It can be easy to allow all sorts of feelings or thoughts to remain lingering simply because of being caught up in life. I have learned that it is important to go to God to help me see those people, commitments, or things in my life are for keep or those things that are time to let go. As keeping all the papers would create clutter, keeping people and things in my life also clutter my spirit and hinder me from hearing the voice of God. Thankfully, I serve a God that loves me to be able to help me learn what to keep and what to let go.

My Garden

2009-03-23T17:25:00.000-07:00

Every since I was a little girl, one thing that I have always wanted was a garden. I love the idea of knowing that I am able to eat foods that I have actually grown on my own. Recently, I began making that desire of mine become a reality. I wanted my children to know how to grow and care for foods. So, off we went to the store to pick out what would be our first adventure in developing our green thumbs.

The first try was horrible. I thought we had followed all the directions correctly. I bought the necessary pots, soil, even cut gardening tools. But no matter what, those seeds did not grow. My children were not the only ones disappointed.

I was still determined to have that garden and decided to give it one more go. We picked out some bell peppers, tomatoes, and sunflowers to plant. There we were, gathered together planting the seeds, watering the soil, and hopeful that this time would be different. Each day the kids would come eagerly to look at the plants looking for any sign of growth. Then seven days later, there were little buds of green in the tomato plant. We all were excited. Then, as more days passed, more buds grew and our garden was coming to fruition. Growth. Success.

While tending our plants today, I began to think of how excited God must get when we begin to grow. How happy it must make Him when we make those steps of faith; trusting Him instead of looking at the situation. How excited He must be when we grow from needing to see to just believing. God provides all that we need to grow and become mature in Him. It is up to us to stay planted in the fertile soil of His word.

Oh, how thankful I am for growth.

Daily Reminders

2009-03-22T10:26:00.000-07:00

Each day, I am thankful for all the daily reminders that Christ bestows upon me. Those reminders always seem to come at the time that encouragement is needed or just a simple nudge to remind me to keep pushing forward. It comes in simple ways from an improvement in my son's actions or a kind word from a loving friend. Then recently, through the kindness of Valerie at Simply4God, was given the Kreativ Blogger award. Her gentle and encouraging spirit has been a joy since beginning this new journey of blogging almost a year ago.

When I began blogging, the concept was new to me and I wasn't sure what to expect other than believing that it was God directed. At no point would I imagine that not only would God use me to touch lives, but that the lives of those in the blogging community would be such a blessing to my life. I give God all the glory for the way that He continues to touch my life and allowing me the opportunity to be one tool in spreading His gospel.

Completely Assembled

2009-03-16T08:38:00.001-07:00

Devotional for Mar. 16-22, 2008

“Your hands made me and formed me; give me understanding to learn your commands.” Psalm 119: 73 NIV

Loose weight now. . .Botox. . . Get rich quick. . .Be taller. . . Be smarter. . .Look younger. . . .Get longer hair . . . .Whiter teeth. . . Hide those unwanted grays. . . .and on and on it goes.

Everyday that you turn on the television, open a magazine, or even read the billboards along the highways, someone is promoting some item to “fix” the unwanted, unliked, or even hated parts of ourselves. Maybe you’ve seen the undergarments that hide the unwanted “rolls” or the loose weight gimmicks that promise you can loose weight without doing any work.

See, for some of us, when we look into the mirror we begin to dissect ourselves. We stand there saying, “If I could just fix this, then I would be happy.” You know, if I just 5 more pounds or if I could look just a little bit younger. Yet, the truth of the matter is, it won’t matter how many pounds you lose, how young you look, or the color of your hair because it will still continue to be something. As soon as you loose those pounds, then you're off finding something else that isn’t quite right about your body. I know. Growing up, I tried countless time to straighten my naturally curly hair to be like everyone else’s, or so I thought. I spent countless hours in the gym trying to keep away extra pounds, dreading those comments of “Oh my you’ve gotten a little bigger” whenever I would return to my hometown.

It is funny though, because many of the ads we see don’t promote the need to work on who we are on the inside. When was the last time that you saw a commercial for working on improving our bad attitudes, focusing on being thankful instead of focusing on what was lacking, or even the importance of forgiveness, mercy, or reconciliation. When Christ formed us, He didn’t form us lacking. He formed us in His image with the gifts, talents, and abilities that are needed for the plan He fashioned for our lives even before there was an earth. Although we are to take excellent care of the temple He has provided us with our earthly bodies, it is more important to take care of the spirit that resides within. It is vital that we put more time and effort in doing our part in seeking God to be rid of the unwanted pain, the damaged hearts, the skewed vision that has plagued so many of us.

Right away in this verse, the psalmist acknowledges God not just as His creator. What God creates is a good thing. When Christ created us—it was a good thing. God took extra care to fashion us with His own hands in His image. We were not an afterthought to Him. Then he goes on to ask God for understanding. In essence, God you made me, show me who it is you created me to be. He was able to acknowledge the sovereignty of Christ to know that when you want to understand the creation go to the creator. Christ has provided us with a manual that provides us clarity on how to handle every situation of our lives. When we allow God to show us to how love, not just others, but ourselves, then we learn how not to become fixated on corrected the outward person without taking an inward look at the spirit that lies within. We are able to do everything to His glory. Exercising becomes a way to please Him and not an obsession to be thin or please others, just as the kind way we treat a stranger is a way to show others the compassion of the Father that is the Lord and Savior of our lives.

Prayer
My Heavenly Father, I am so thankful to know that I was and am a special part in your heavenly plan. My life is not by accident or without purpose. I am special to you in everyway possible. Help me Lord to see me the way you see me. Help me not to be consumed with my frailties or inadequacies, but instead help me to know what areas and in what ways you would have me to become more like you. Thank you for providing me a Word that is real and prevalent every day of my life. I thank you that I am never alone for you are always with me. I love you Lord. In Jesus name, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Psalm 119: 73
Tuesday Job 12: 2
Wednesday Psalm 46: 10
Thursday Psalm 139: 15-16
Friday Job 10: 8
Saturday Psalm 199: 34
Sunday Psalm 100: 3

Application
Spend time with God allowing Him to show you His purpose and plan for your life.

To receive my weekly devotionals in your email, click here to subscribe.

An Adjusted Plan

2009-03-11T18:57:00.000-07:00

For those who know me, they know that I am a planner. I set goals, have ambitions, and make plans for where I see things going. For almost a year, I have been enrolled in a PhD program in Education in which I have set my course plan, dissertation, and possible graduation date. I had it all planned out.

Yet, recently, I realized that the process needed to get adjusted. Sometimes, when I have a goal in mind and it gets changed, I immediately begin to feel as if I have somehow failed and just need to push harder. I push even when everything in me is screaming for a change.

Now is no different. When I began school, I did so knowing that God had called me to this season and I continue to be guided that school is a part of His plan. Somehow, I got so caught up in trying to complete the plan that I was missing His direction on how the plan would come to be. I was so fixated on the destination that I was missing the journey.

God intended for me to enjoy this journey, not become over powered by it. That means knowing how to recognize distractions, say no, and making adjustments without feeling condemned. Sometimes it isn’t that plan that needs the change, just our expectation of how we expect the journey to go.

Thankfully, I am getting it and before I had to through a self-created storm in order for me to get it. So thank you Lord for growth, discernment, and the prayers of others.

I encourage each of you to not be afraid of making adjustments. It could make all the difference in the journey.

In the Womb

2009-03-08T12:08:00.000-07:00

I lay there excitedly looking to see our newest bundle of joy, when I saw the expression on the doctor’s face. Something was wrong. At that moment the doctor says, “Mrs. Pack, here you can see the sack in your uterus where a baby should be, but there is no baby.” I lay there starring at the ultrasound machine hoping that somehow I would be able to see what the trained doctor’s missed.

Giving me time to register what was going on, the doctor left me in the room to get dressed. With each piece of garment that I placed back on, I kept seeing the empty womb not quite sure what to expect or even how to process what was going on. With tears streaming down my face, I began to talk with God. I was afraid. I was scared. I was hurting.

The doctor reentered, offering me compassion while explaining the next step. There was the possibility that this pregnancy had developed into an eptopic, or tubal, pregnancy. But he wanted to wait before doing anything else. I was to return every three days for the next couple of weeks for review.

Sitting in my car, I talked back with God reminding Him, or rather me, of the promises that He had said to me so many years ago. Here I was looking at the facts of the situation, but trusting God on His truth.

For the next couple of weeks, I would go back to the doctor to look at an empty womb each time reminding myself to hold on to my faith. Each time trying to understand. The team of doctors wanted to go ahead to flush my tubes to prevent my tubes from being damaged or worse, but the lead doctor said no. He believed that somehow all would work out.

Then the day came, when after my 5th ultrasound of an empty womb, my husband and I stood there looking at our active 4th child. Joy just ran through me when I heard the heartbeat. The doctors were amazed at how large the baby was and how the baby could have been missed. I didn’t question it, but instead, I rejoiced knowing that everything was in Christ’s hands all along.

Now here were are in our second trimester, continuing to know that Christ has everything in His control and having faith that He knows what is best for us all.

No one and Nobody

2009-03-04T06:42:00.000-08:00

Shortly, after the birth of my third son, I experienced what some would call “baby blues”. At first, I had no idea what was going on with me. Feelings of anxiety, fear, frustration, and detachment would flood over me causing me to be overwhelmed of taking care of three children who had completely different needs. It wasn’t suppose to be that way, at least that is what I thought. Some moments and days, I was wrapped up in the excitement of my newborn child, but then in other moments I just wanted to escape. I wanted to get away from the crying, the diapers, the homework, the potty training.

Immediately, feelings of guilt and shame trickled within me. I was afraid to talk to anyone about what I was going through thinking that surely no one and nobody understood. I didn’t want anyone, including my husband, to look at me as a “bad” mother. Yet, the more I kept it within me the more the walls of a prison began to take up resident.

Tired and worn, I shut myself up in my bedroom away from everyone. I sat there on my bed. Tears flooding my cheeks, hair crumpled in a mass on my head, and just cried out to God. “Lord help me.” It was then that I felt His arms of comfort around me and heard His reassuring voice. I stayed there on that bed with Him, allowing Him to minister to my spirit and remind me of the purpose and plan He has for my life. After that moment, I made up my mind to talk. I first began to talk with my husband and then my mom. I wasn’t alone.

Sometimes when we are going through difficult and challenging situations, it is easy to think that no one and nobody truly understand how we feel. A friend of mine said it best, “You know who gets invited to a pity party? No one and nobody.” I meditated on that for weeks after my conversation with her. It is true. When we stay in a condemn state, or in that pity party, we think that we are the only ones to face that pain, that hurt, that betrayal. But, Christ knows it all. He understands it all. There is nothing we can experience that He does not understand. So I encourage you to get rid of the no ones and nobody’s of your life and realize you are not alone

"Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" Romans 8: 1

The Wolf Pack

2009-02-24T09:41:00.001-08:00

For several days now I have heard the saying “A wolf in sheep’s clothing”. It began in church on Sunday when a guest speaker, John Bevere, was speaking about the implications offense plays within the body of believers. After hearing his poignant message, it seemed that this saying was all around me. So off I went to learn more about this all too familiar phrase.

Wolves are very cunning creatures and very rarely travel alone. In most cases, the wolves will gather in wolf packs which often include 6 to 7 wolves of varying roles within the pack. As in their nature, wolves seek to eat meat which in many cases include sheep.

Now similar to the wolves, sheep also travel in groups, or flocks, which protect them from the attacks of predators. The larger the flock the more the sheep is protected. When wolves seek to attack sheep, they look for the sheep that has been isolated or separated from the group. Usually, this sheep may be small or weak. Patiently, the wolves will stand observant, watching for the signs of weakness or separation within the flock before making that step to attack their prey.

Even within the body of Christ, we must be careful of separating from the flock. When we isolated or allow ourselves to become weakened, we can make ourselves rip for the enemies attack. This happens when we become offended by fellow believers; when we cease to receive correction; when we turn a deaf ear to the vessel of Christ delivering the Word; when we make more time for things and less time for God. All of these things and more cause believers to become weakened and often cause us to be isolated from other believers.

Now, I could sit here and go into detail about the tricks that the wolves use to disguise themselves to trick their prey, but I think one important part is for us as believers to understand the importance of doing our part to stay connected to the body of Christ or within the flock. We will have difficulties, challenges, tribulations—that is a given. Yet, it is still our choice to stay connected and to be strengthened by the Word of Christ. We can choose NOT to be that lone sheep isolated and become the wolves’ next prey.

Going to the alter

2009-02-20T06:23:00.000-08:00

He was there. Standing so handsome as his eyes connected with mine as if there was no one there but he and I. Walking ever so slowly, I knew that I was walking away from how my life used to be to embracing a new beginning. There he stood, waiting for me, never wavering, never moving, simply waiting with the largest grin on his face. As tears trickled down my foundation covered face, I finally stood at the alter with my husband to be.

Truly the day that we were married is one of the most special memories that I hold dear and yet, it also helps me to remember when accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior.

When I think of the day I accepted Christ, I also envision Him standing there at the alter waiting ever so patiently for me. He knew that it would take me choosing to take the steps needed to get to Him. He knew that in choosing Him that He would help me to leave the old me behind and embrace the future that He had created for me so long ago. Awww, yes, I envision Christ standing there with tears of joy and love in His eyes at seeing me come closer to Him. My life has never been the same since that day at the alter.

Still a Pillar

2009-02-16T13:14:00.000-08:00

“21) By day the LORD went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night. 22) Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people.” Exodus 13: 21-22 NIV

Stepping out into the unknown, even when prayed for, requires great faith and determination. In that unknown, we wonder about what to do, where to go, when to move, and so much more. We even become afraid at all of the unknown variables that lie ahead. How will we be able to afford it? What if it fails? What if I actually succeed? Am I really ready? Question after question, sometimes doubt and then fear begin to flood our minds causing us to really question whether or not to go into the unknown.

That is one of the reasons, I really enjoy this text. Here Iserealites had been freed from the oppression of the Pharaoh, passed safely through the parting of the Red Sea, and had been lead into a land totally unfamiliar to them. With all the various paths they could have gone, they were lead to the road less traveled by. A road in which lead to the wilderness, or the unknown, with God as their guide.

Even in the natural, the wilderness has a vital role. Only in the wilderness, are rare and endangered species able to thrive away from a population of being disturbed. Sometimes, it is necessary for even us to enter the wilderness, or unknown places, so that those gifts, talents, even faith walk within us can be developed in such as way that it could not be when we are constantly surrounded by the voices and opinions of others. But although they were in a place that was unknown to them, God knew exactly where He was taking them. He provided Himself as the guide through what was unfamiliar to them.

During the day, He was there as a pillar of a cloud by day not just guiding them as to which way to go, but also sheltering them from the heat of the day. God was concerned not just about them reaching the destination, but about how they would be able to endure in the journey. Even at night, He provided Himself as a pillar of fire again as the guide and the protection so that they did not have to fear what may be lurking around or what animals laid waiting nearby. He wanted to direct them to promise land He had fashioned for them all along.

Just think that same pillar is available to us even today. He has provided for us His word to help guide us through the difficulties of life. He has provided for us the shedding of His blood for the remission of our sins. He has provided for us the Holy Spirit as a comforter and a guide. God is still here guiding us through the unknown places in our lives if only we would choose to follow. When we allow God to be our guide then what appears unknown in the natural becomes faith in the spirit. Take a step of faith and allow God to guide you in this next step in your journey.

Prayer
My Lord, forgive me for thinking that I know what is better for my life than you do. Forgive for the times that I choose to move of my own wisdom instead of seeking your direction for my life. Please reveal to me those hidden areas of rebellion that keep me from being able to surrender totally to your will for me. I thank you that before the earth ever was, you created me and fashioned me with a purpose and a plan. I pray that I may seek you in all areas of my life to be my guide, my protector, my savior, my everything. In Jesus name, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Exodus 13: 21-22
Tuesday Nehemiah 9: 12-20
Wednesday Psalm 105: 38-45
Thursday Psalm 99:7
Friday Numbers 14: 14
Saturday 1 Corinthians 10:1-5
Sunday psalm 106: 43-45

Application
Seek God’s direction each day as you continue along this faith walk and trust that He will never leave you nor forsake you.

If you would like to receive these weekly devotionals in your email, click here to subscribe.

Heart Disease

2009-02-09T14:25:00.000-08:00

This past week, on a routine visit to my doctor, there were tables set up all along the corridor of the hospital providing information about heart disease. Table after table was information about what is heart disease, how it can be prevented, and what to do if you have it. Many people glanced at these tables with all sorts of information and continued along their way. Maybe they didn’t have time to stop or maybe they didn’t think that the information had any use for them, but it started me thinking.

When thinking about how unique and vital the heart is to our bodies, I started to do some research of my own. The heart “is the organ that pumps blood, with its life-giving oxygen and nutrients, to all tissues of the body. If the pumping action of the heart becomes inefficient, vital organs like the brain and kidneys suffer. If the heart stops working altogether, death occurs within minutes” (Fogoros, 2007, ¶ 1). Here is a small organ that has a big job. Sadly for women, heart disease is the number one killer of women.

Yet, heart disease is more than a disease that attacks the natural body; it has also become a disease that has infected the hearts and spirits of many believers. For the believer, heart disease may manifest itself after years of unforgiveness, bitterness, anger, or even pride. When left with a lack of repentance and choosing to carry the weight instead of casting it to Christ, these things begin to infiltrate the heart. They eat away at the hearts ability to give love.

Thankfully, the heart disease is curable. We are able to cast all our cares on Christ who is able to restore our hearts from all the damage that pain, rejection, and dysfunction has caused. When we go to Him with a repentant heart, confessing our anger, our bitterness, our pride, the unforgiveness that has lingered, then He not only forgives us, but restores us completely.

We each have a choice to be live a heart healthy life or be plagued by heart disease.

Reference:

Fogoros, R. (2007). What is heart disease? Retrieved February 9, 2009 from http://heartdisease.about.com/od/coronaryarterydisease/a/heartdisease.htm

The Message

2009-02-03T10:31:00.000-08:00

On Sunday night, my three children were piled up with me as we prepared to watch a pastor that I frequently keep up with. There they were. My eldest sitting, curled on the living room floor. My middle child, who is almost 4, sat in his chair sitting placed next to me. Then my youngest, who lounged languidly on the couch pillow, placed his feet on my leg.

We all sat there together prepared to watch and receive the Word from this vessel of Christ when my middle son turns to me.

“Mommy, does he have a message from the Lord?” he asked looking quite sincere.

“Yes, baby, he does.”

Pausing, he places he hand on mine, “Can I have a message from the Lord?” His eyes were quizzical as he waited eagerly from an answer from me.

“Sure you can. God can give any of us a message just from Him.”

“Wow. Then can you have a message from the Lord? What about my baby brother? My daddy?” and he continues listing every single person he knows.

After being satisfied, he sits forward in his chair. After time to really think about the conversation, he glances back over his shoulder and says, “I like that.”

When I told him that yes, he could have a message from the Lord, he didn’t go into excuses or reasons why he wasn’t old enough, smart enough, or seasoned enough. No, he accepted that God could use him. It is great to be reminded through the innocence of children how simple it is to love God and to serve Him.

Beyond the Now

2009-02-02T12:32:00.000-08:00

“In every thing give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 1 Thessalonians 5: 18

Have you taken a good look at the news lately? On each station they are revealing statistic after statistic of homes in foreclosure, businesses going bankrupt, and the number of people in unemployment. Day after day, I capture snippets of anchor men and women discussing bailouts and stimulus plans. You hear individuals who are considered authorities in their field bluntly stating that things are going to continue to get bad before they get good again. But then . . . there are those same authorities in the midst of all the financial turmoil this nation and others are in are saying this is a great time to buy land, houses, and stocks because they know this period will not last forever.

Some of the same individuals that are stating the negative are also able to see the silver lining in the situation. How ironic is that? If they are able to see the good even in the midst of all the negative, how much more are we as believers to do? As believers, we ought not to allow the fear of not having to dictate whether we are able to continue to praise God for what He has already shown us. Are you able to see pass the nature, to still give thanks?

I am not saying that there will not be times that you are going to want to grumble, complain, or even be afraid of whether or not you will still have a job, a home, a car. Even though, your flesh may want you to open your mouth to such negativity, we, as believers, are encouraged to do the very opposite. It takes faith to know that regardless of the economy, God is still your provider. For without faith it is impossible to please God. Out of our faith, we are able to stand up and give thanks to God in all things.

God does not want us focused on problems when He has given us His promises. He promises us that He will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13: 5). He promises that all things will work together for the good of them who love the Lord (Romans 8: 28). He promises that no weapon formed against us shall prosper (Isaiah 54: 17). Notice His promises do not say the challenges won’t come, but rather He has already given us victory through them. So be encourage in spite of the now and give thanks.

Prayer
My Loving and Awesome Father, who is the beginning and the end. Thank you for being my provider, my healer, and my creator. Thank you for continually showing up in my life even when I wasn’t aware of who you were. Thank you for sending people in my life to pray for me, bless me, and guide me along the path you created specifically for me. May I always have a praise in my heart and a thanksgiving on my tongue. I pray that I may continually choose to see the promises and not the problems. In Jesus name, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday 1 Thessalonians 5: 18
Tuesday Colossians 3: 17
Wednesday Ephesians 5: 20
Thursday John 14: 27
Friday Colossians 3: 15
Saturday 1 Corinthians 10: 31
Sunday Ephesians 5: 4

Application
Take time each day giving God thanks in spite of your situations.

To receive my weekly devotionals in your email, click here.

Treasures

2009-01-27T13:23:00.000-08:00

Growing up, I could not wait to take the trip to my grandmother’s house. I have innumerable memories of us packing up the car, piling in, and making the car ride to her house in the middle of the night. There was nothing like pulling up the hill to her home. Whenever we would arrive, it was as if we stepped into our personal treasure hunt. After hugs, my siblings and I could not wait to go plundering room to room to see what goodies we would find.

Later on after my grandmother began to display early signs of Alzheimer’s, I quickly began to realize that my grandmother had all sorts of treasures tucked away. Those treasures were the stories that she would begin to share of her childhood on the farm, starting the nursing program, or simply spending time dancing. During this time, I learned more about the woman my grandmother was than the fact she was my “Mudder”.

I began to learn about what she kept as her treasures. Tucked away in drawers and cabinets was every letter any of us grandchildren had every written as if she had received that day. You could see the wrinkles in the pages worn from being read multiple times. In those cabinets, where clippings of different achievements of my aunts, uncles, mom. Without even realizing it, she was keeping her greatest treasure right there with her—family.

I realize now that although she did not always have the sentimental words or was the most affectionate, it was clear, she knew where her treasures lie. For all of us, our treasures don’t have to be hidden or wait to be discovered. My treasures are walking around me everyday, are in the phone calls that say “Hey, I’m here and I understand”, are hugs that soothe after a difficult day, or that card that comes in the mail to say “I was thinking of you today”. I have learned from my grandmother to appreciate the treasures of my life and take the time to share that they are priceless everyday.

"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matthew 6: 21 NIV

Picture provided by: clipartheaven.com

An Umbrella

2009-01-23T10:04:00.000-08:00

Lately our weather has been up and down. One moment is it freezing, the next raining, and then sunny. I try as much as possible to be prepared for these changes, especially being a mom of three boys. I keep a blanket in my car, an extra hat for the kids, plus an umbrella in my purse and one in the backseat. But recently, during one of the rain storms my favorite umbrella broke. That made me start thinking.

Umbrellas are interesting inventions. We use them to shelter out heat in a hot summer’s day or to protect us from an onslaught of rain. But then there are those days, that the rain seems never ending and the wind begins to pick up. Then, without warning, that umbrella that was meant to protect us and keep us dry, has now flipped and is broken. There we stand, rain pouring onto our clothes, our hair, and all the other items we intended to stay dry. Immediately, many of us begin to pick up our pace trying to run and seek shelter. If you are like me, sometimes that effort to move faster can end up with me somehow slipping. Then instead of being out of the rain, I am trying to pick myself up and getting more wet in the process.

But the wonder of Christ is that, He is the unbreakable umbrella. He is the greatest shelter there could ever be.

“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91: 1 NIV)

In His shelter we can find rest when we are weary; we can find healing when we are hurt; we can find hope when all seems hopeless; and so much more. When we are in the shelter of Christ, although the storms may come, we will not be shaken or moved. The rain could come, the wind might blow, we may even stumble, but in the shelter of the Lord there is peace, joy, hope, eternal life.

Picture provided by: Birmingham.Mail.net. (2009). Winds and rain. Retrieved January 23, 2009 from http://birminghammai.net AW310108RAIN-11 .

Legacy

2009-01-19T10:56:00.000-08:00

Today, as we remember the life of Martin Luther King, Jr., I began to reflect on legacy. When Dr. King and so many more participated in the Civil Rights Movement, they were not seeking to make a change just for that day. Instead they considered the legacy they were leaving their children and so many more who would have equal access to schools, the ability to vote, a fair chance at justice. Their ability to persevere, to stand united, to press forward changed lives forever for people all across this country.

When I think of the legacy that even my grandmother or my mother have passed and pass on to me, I realize that it helped fashion me to be the woman of God that I now am. Yes, their legacies of love, faithfulness, forgiveness, and restoration have had and continues to have a profound impact on my life. For through my mother, I began to know that God is real. It was through her relationship with Christ, that I began to know of the Lord who can forgive, heal, and restore. She not only passes the legacy of faith to me, but it continues to my children. The countless times that she has petitioned God not just on my behalf, but on the behalf of my children is immeasurable. Her example has helped me begin to fashion my own legacy.

Each time that I sit with my children and share with them all the ways God has shown grace and mercy over my life and theirs, I pass down the legacy of thanksgiving. When I praise God in home as well as in my church, I pass down the legacy of praise. Legacy is not something that suddenly occurs when someone passes, but it rather what we give while we are living.

So when you think of the legacy you are leaving to the lives you impact, what are leaving behind?

The Hairbrush

2009-01-16T09:18:00.000-08:00

As a kid, I had a very active imagination. My hairbrush was a part of my gateway to the future. With it, I was an anchor woman presenting the news. I was the first female president. I was accepting awards for my writing. Ahhh, yes, that hairbrush was but a tool of endless possibilities.

For many adults, we pack away the hairbrush and only use it for traditional means. But as the child, that hairbrush was so much more. Unfortunately, when we pack away that hairbrush, we pack away the dreams, the visions, the hopes of so much more for our lives. That hairbrush gets packed away because of what wasn’t accomplished, the broken hearts, and the unkept promises. Instead of keeping connected to the possibilities we connected with the hairbrush, so many have picked up compromise and complacency instead.

In Christ, there are even more possibilities that can be held inside one hairbrush. Christ created us for abundance and fruitfulness. He gave each of us gifts and talents. It is up to us to allow ourselves to keep dreaming and seeing the endless possibilities.

To some, it may seem silly, but even now I still take out my hairbrush and allow myself to dream of lives that I will be able to minister to and doors that will be opened. I see the endless possibilities of what Christ will do in my life. I encourage each of you to be willing to allow yourself to dream again and see the endless possibilities in Christ.

Peek-A-Boo! I see you!

2009-01-13T12:05:00.000-08:00

My youngest son loves to play peek-a-boo. He loves it when I suddenly pop out from behind my hands or blanket. He even giggles with glee when I tell him “I see you!”. When I pop out, he gets excited because he sees me.

Me.

Mommy. Cook. Nurse. Human jungle gym. Safety.

When he looks at me, he sees all of that in one.

But then, let’s take it further.

When I stop to help someone in need, guess what—they see Him.

When I make myself available to pray with someone hurting—they see Him.

When I take a stand and choose not to compromise His word—they see Him.

When I show forgiveness toward someone who has spoken badly against my name—they see Him.

The beauty is that when I step out, Christ is stepping out with me and in me too. So when look at me—they see Him. Because Christ is forgiveness, love, kindness, gentleness and much more. When I play peek-a-boo with my son, he knows no matter what I am going to show up. It is the same way with us, if we are willing, Christ will always show up in our lives. The question is are you taking the time for others to see Him in you?

Small Spaces

2009-01-07T14:03:00.000-08:00

My children love being able to come into our bedroom. It is like their personal amusement park. When they enter our bedroom, immediately, you see their eyes widen as they survey what in the room they can get into. One of my two youngest children’s favorite pastime is climbing under our bed. They absolutely have a ball being able to crawl under one side of the bed to come out successfully to the other.

I am often amazed because I know there are numerous items under there which I often think would hinder them from getting from one side to the other. But some kind of way they know how to move and contort to be able to come out on the other side. Then they seem to come out with something I had forgotten was even under the bed.

I see God in the same way at times. God is excited when we allow Him to enter the intimate part of us. He seeks to fill all the places within us that only He can get to. Just like the children are able to get to those small places under our bed, Christ is able to get to those small places within our hearts that are still damaged from low self-esteem, abuse, and betrayal. Only God can get to those small places that are cracked from us trying to repair what only He could complete restore and make new again. It is wonderful to serve a God that knows how to get to the small places within us.

Continue

2009-01-01T11:38:00.000-08:00

It is now a new year and people have made all sorts of lists and promises of things that they want plan to do for this year. They include things such as losing weight, spending more time with family, giving up smoking, etc. Something I have meditated on is not what we need to start doing, but those things that we are to continue doing.

Each of us in Christ has been assigned specific tasks, relationships and assignments. For some of us, it is not that we haven’t been doing certain things but that God wants us to continue what we have been doing. He wants us to continue interceding in prayer for those that are lost. He wants us to continue having faith that what He spoke to us will come to pass. He wants us to continue to serve by helping those who are less fortunate. He wants us to continue believing that He is Lord and Savior.

Each year is not always about a new beginning or a new start, but rather a second wind in a race that we continue to run. We can choose to continue to work toward that business that God had assigned specifically to us. We can choose to continue to work toward finishing that degree. We can choose to continue to hold on to God’s promises of healing.

This year choose to continue.

Snowflakes

2008-12-28T13:36:00.000-08:00

When I was a child, I loved being able to stand outside and let the snowflakes gently glide to land in my hands. I was intrigued by the idea that no two snowflakes were identical. That concept just blew my mind. Standing there in the snow, I couldn’t fathom how amongst all the snowflakes that fell upon the earth each one was completely different.

Now, that I am a woman, I must admit that I am still amazed by snowflakes. When snowflakes begin to fall they often encounter all sorts of environmental conditions that alter their shape. Some of these conditions cause them to become deformed as a result of being melted while other conditions are ideal causing them to grow in shape and size. Either way, each snowflake's shape is constantly changing.

At times, we can be like snowflakes. There are environments and situations that deform what God created as beautiful. We attach ourselves to damaging relationships; stumble off the path created for us because of disobedience, and at times become damaged by things that are simply outside of our control. These situations and choices can cause how we view ourselves to be distorted and damaged. On the other hand, there are relationships, environments, choices, and even circumstances that are ideal for helping us grow. Sometimes we may not realize that it is healthy for us, but in the end all things have worked together for our good. What is important for each of us is paying attention to those people, situations or environments we allow ourselves to be in.

Notice that the snowflake is constantly being altered up until the point it reaches the destination. That means all along the way the snowflake is being changes either for the good or the bad. Even if a snowflake becomes deformed, in the right environment it still could grow. That is the same for us who have made some bad choice in life. Christ is so awesome that no matter how deformed we may become, when we turn to Him, surrender and choose obedience, He has the ability to make us whole again and to help us grow.

A Simple Box

2008-12-23T18:49:00.000-08:00

There it was in the living room, a simple brown cardboard box. At one point in this boxes life, it was privilege to house generations of pictures of our family. Now, it was tossed to the side, prepared to meet its next phase in life—recycling. I left it there in the living room, totally expecting to return to it later that evening to send it to its next destination.

Upon returning to the room, what do I find? Three boys who have turned the once useless box into a castle in which they were knights protecting their mother who is the queen. Then shortly thereafter, the box was able to transform into a red race car that won the race. I saw them sitting in that box rocking back and forth yelling “Go. Go.” To those three boys that box represented all sorts of new opportunities and unlimited hours of play, but to me that simple box had served it purpose and I was ready to let it go.

Sometimes, we can be like that box. To the world, they may try to limit us by our age, race, economic status, or education. They may try to keep us bound by our mistakes, our flaws, or our weaknesses. But just like that box, God put unlimited potential in us. When others are able to only see who we are in that season, they miss all that we are created to be.

You see, at one point, I needed that box to be able to carry my precious cargo. Once it served that purpose, it was able to be created to fit the next need by becoming the castle, the car, the hiding place. At times, we may need to be something for a season, but God has placed so much in us. He has created us to be leaders, nurturers, writers, ministers, friends, encouragers, chefs, entrepreneurs, doctors, and so much more.

Christian Writer's Blog Award

2008-12-22T09:19:00.000-08:00

Today, when openned my email, I was so excited to see that my blog was chosen to receive the "Christian Writer's Blog" award from Gi at Christian Articles. The purpose of this award is to recongize "Christian Writers that have been touching lives for the Glory of God". I give all glory to Christ for choosing to use me as one of the tools to build His kingdom.

It is so awesome to know that God has used my ability to write to reach, encourage, and build up others for His purpose. I am just overjoyed. Gi, thank you so very much for a blessing such as this. may God bless you richly for the work you are doing for His glory.

Every award that this blog receives, I give thanks to God knowing that all blessing come from Him. Praise God!!!

Side Effects

2008-12-16T06:34:00.000-08:00

Have you ever sat and really watched a commercial or read an advertisement for some of the medicines drug companies are promoting? All throughout the ad, they give you all the wonderful effects the drug could have for your condition and then briefly tell what health conditions should not be mixed with that particular drug. Finally, in a quick breath or itty bitty print at the bottom of the ad, they give all the possible side effects that could occur by taking that medicine.

Just think. You are taking a medicine for sinus problems, but the medicine could cause dizziness, headaches, blurry vision, diarrhea, or intense stomach pains. Wow! All that just to get rid of a runny nose. Sometimes the side effects can be much worse than the actual condition that it is meant to cure.

Then I began thinking of the turning point in my life that I went to God in the worse condition I could ever be in looking for a cure. He knocked on the door of my heart so “that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3: 16b). When we choose to accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, we also invite Him to be a healer. He wants to heal those places in our lives that have been broken or bruised along the way so that we can walk in the fullness He intended for us in the first place. By accepting Him, there are some conditions that do not mix with the new creature we become in Him such as anger, strife, unforgiveness, gossip, or pride. All of these conditions only slow down the healing process.

Even when we accept Christ, there are side effects that come. In Christ, we are promised side effects, or fruit of the Spirit, of “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Galatians 5: 22a-23). When Christ heals the broken places in our lives, we are able to live a healthier life in Him.

Such blessings

2008-12-14T17:24:00.000-08:00

I am just amazed over and over again at the way God continues to move not just in my life but in the lives of people all over the world. During this season, I am always encouraged when I see people who go beyond themselves and their situations to reach out to help others in need. That help could be in the form of a material gift or even in what isn't tangible like prayers, encouragement, or a much needed hug on those difficult days. It is easy to be focused on ourselves, the awards we receive, the bills we are to pay. Then there are those moments, when someone decides to share the blessings.

For me, Valerie at Simply4God has been one of the Godly women who has continually chosen to share the abundant blessings that has been bestowed upon her. Her kindness, generousity, and willingness to be available to be used by God has been shown to me time and time again. I am thankful for this Godly connection. Just this week, she chose to pass on the "Your blog teaches me something all the time" award.

It is always a joy when someone is able to see the Christ in what you do. So take time this week to reach out and share your blessing with someone. Give a hug, share a smile, pray, or just send a card. Do what you can to be that such blessing to someone else.

Giveaway time!

2008-12-08T12:08:00.000-08:00

Hello all! I am pleased to announce my first blog giveaway the From the Heart 2008 Devotional Wall Calendar. This calendar, created by Chosen Generation Products, is designed to encourage, challenge, and motivate Christians of all levels throughout the year through original devotionals and Bible study.

Time frame: December 8-20, 2008

Product Features
· 12 original devotionals
· Scriptures
· Meditation Point
· Plenty of writing room
· Original photography
· Time Span: 12 months
· Binding: Stapled
· Eyelet for hanging

To participate in this giveaway:

Leave a comment sharing an moment of encouragement that you have received from a fellow Christian believer that really made a difference in your life.

For additional entries you may:

Blog about this giveaway and post the link (Be sure to leave a comment with your site address)
Become a follower or subscriber (If you already are, that counts as one entry as well.)
Recommend someone to visit the site. Please make sure they mention your name or link your blog in the comment section.

This contest is open to bloggers and nonbloggers alike who are US residents only. The contest will end at Dec. 20, 2008 at midnight. The winner will have 72 hours to respond to my email or another winner will be chosen.

If you are interested in purchasing this calendar or want to view other products by Chosen Generation visit here.

I look forward to reading your comments.

Open Confessions

2008-12-08T05:47:00.000-08:00

Devotional for Dec. 8-14, 2008

“13) He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy. 14) Blessed is the man who always fears the LORD, but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble.” Proverbs 28: 13-14

Growing up, being honest was a challenge for me. Actually, that would be putting it nicely. To be plain, I was a liar. I would lie because I didn’t want to hurt another person’s feelings. I would lie because I didn’t want my mom to know the truth about boy I liked at school. I would lie because I didn’t want to disappoint anyone. I told one lie, after another lie, after another. After awhile, my lies seemed to become my reality. I would lie even after being caught and was very hesitant to admit my mistakes. Try as I might, I would do all that I could to cover my sins from others and, at times, even myself. If I didn’t address it, then maybe I didn’t have to deal with it. I thought denial would somehow fix the problem. Boy was I ever wrong.

Covering up wrongdoing, refusing to admit our mistakes, or being in denial does not remove the sin. It exists. As long as we stay in the place of denial, then we are choosing to stay separated from God. Denial is a barrier to repentance. It is damn blocking the forgiveness of Christ which comes only when we go to Him in a repentant state. This is why the enemy works so hard to make us think “What’s the big deal?”, “It’s not as if I hurt anybody”, “They couldn’t handle the truth anyway”. This are all trappings which only lead to us being the ones hurt.

David knows about covering sin. He committed adultery with another man’s wife, got her pregnant, and then had her husband killed to cover his sins. Then he ended up marrying the woman, Bethsheba, and the baby died. It wasn’t until David was confronted by the prophet Nathan that he decided to stop concealing his sin and go to God for forgiveness. Even with all of this wrongdoing, God not only forgave him but went on to say that David was a man after his own heart. How awesome is that!

Without confession, there can be no forgiveness. If we want Christ to forgive us of our sins, then we need to be willing to confess them whatever they are. Christ is not taken aback by the things we have said, done, or thought. He knows them anyway, but He wants us to bring all of it to Him with a repentant heart. This is why the Psalmist says that those who conceal sin will not prosper. Sin only leads to more sin if we don’t have a repentant heart. But the person who confesses their sins to Christ and turns away from the life of sin will find mercy in the eyes of Christ. Don’t let a hard heart, denial, rebellion or anything else stand in the way of confessing your sins to Christ.

Prayer.
My Lord and Savior, please forgive me of my sins. I pray that you may reveal to me those areas of sin that may be unknown to me so that I may repent and turn away from them. Lord, I do not want anything to separate me from a relationship with you. I am thankful that you are a forgiving God, full of mercy and grace. I pray that I may choose to stop concealing, denying, or rebelling against your word. Help me Lord to choose to live a life of obedience. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Proverbs 28: 13-14
Tuesday Acts 17: 30
Wednesday Psalm 32: 5
Thursday Matthew 10: 32-33
Friday Romans 10: 9-10
Saturday James 5: 15-16
Sunday 1 John 1: 9-10

Application
In prayer, confess your sins to Christ.

If you would like to receive my weekly devotionals in your email, click here.

Simply Done: 6 Ways to Achieving Balance in the Home

2008-12-07T12:47:00.000-08:00

Being a wife, career woman, active in ministry and so much more… can be a challenge at times. There are meals to cook, homework to correct, and relationships that need individual attention. As the woman of the home, it is our duty to help create a home environment that is inviting, loving, and warm even in the face of all of these responsibilities. . . .

This month, my article "Simply Done: 6 Ways to Acheiving Balance in the Home" was chosen to be published at Beautiful One magazine whose purpose is to "bring the truths of God's healing and restorative power to women of all walks of life" while seeking to "empower, educate and motivate women to healthier living and inspiring lifestyles!".

To read more of this article visit Beautiful One magazine.

Thankful beyond words

2008-12-06T17:02:00.000-08:00

Recently, I was blessed to receive the "My Favorite Blog" Award from two wonderful women: Valerie at Simply4God and Gi at UCanHope2. I am thankful for the encouragement that God continues to use through these women. I appreciate their willingness to speak words of kindess and encouragement whenever they cross my path. If you have time, please visit their blogs and you will be blessed as I have since I began blogging.

I would like to pass on this award to other women who have been a blessing to me in such wonderful ways. Please take the time to visit their sites.

Getting Down with Jesus

Kerri's Blog

Christine Cain's Blog

Edge of Design

Bout Crazy

The Phone Booth

2008-12-02T13:07:00.000-08:00

Growing up, I was always quite irritated whenever I would watch the movie Superman. I just never understood how no one knew that Clark Kent and Superman were the same person. The only differences were a different hair style, some tights, and a pair of glasses. But recently, when catching a glimpse of the movie again, I was intrigued more by the phone booth. It seemed that no matter the dilemma, there was Clark Kent looking for the phone booth.

Seemingly, whenever Clark Kent entered the phone booth he would emerge stronger and faster. He emerged as Superman. The funny part is that he was Superman all along. The phone booth was just the place needed for him to transform from who others that he was into the person he really was created to be. As Clark Kent, he constantly hid his strengths, his abilities, his true identity. As Clark Kent, no one was able to truly see the real man.

Many of us are walking around pretending like Clark Kent. We sometimes hide our strengths, abilities, even who we are to fit in with others in our families, to fit in with our friends, or to be a part of the crowd at our jobs or churches. We mask ourselves by trying to who others expect us to be instead of being comfortable being exactly who God created us to be in the first place.

For the believer, our phone booth is the prayer closet we run to when we need to shake off the pretenses and to be authentic. In this prayer closet, under the shelter of Christ, we become reassured to step out as who Christ fashioned us to be in the first place. In that phone booth of prayer, we develop our relationship with Christ as He continues to reveal the perfect plan he has created for our lives. Stepping out of the phone booth, we come out strengthened in our Heavenly Father and ready to go the distance. The mask of pretense have been removed, ready for others to see who we really are—living examples of Christ.

Cravings

2008-11-28T17:58:00.000-08:00

I have been craving ice cream. Not just any icecream, but some TCBY chocolate ice cream in a waffle cone with hot fudge. I thought about it the other day, but then yesterday the cravings really kicked in. But yesterday they were closed and today, I was not going to go out into all that madness with the traffic. I have tried to eat other sweets thinking that maybe all I wanted was some chocolate. I tried chocolate chip cookies and a couple of chocolate candies. Nothing. My craving did not go away. So here I sit, knowing that only my ice cream will hit that spot.

That is how our relationship with Christ can be. Sometimes our spirits are craving to be closer to Him, to be more intimate with Him, to get to know Him more but we feed ourselves other stuff. We think that we want to be closer to other people. We keep ourselves busy. We do everything but stop and just go to him. You see that craving for Christ can only be fulfilled when we take the time to spend with Him. He wants us to spend time praising Him, thanking Him, sharing the good and bad with Him. Nothing takes the place of having a relationship with Him.

Everyday Gifts

2008-11-24T10:34:00.000-08:00

Wow! Another year has passed and I am one more year older. Today, I have entered a new decade. Goodness! It seems like just yesterday I was turning 16, hoping that my mom was going to let me go on my first date and get my driving permit.

These past few days have been days of renewed encouragement. As the days drew close to my birthday, I began to reflect. My birthday is not about one day, but about choosing to celebrate this life that Christ has given me everyday. You see, along this journey Christ has blessed me with such gifts that it is not about celebrating just today.

I celebrate everyday the gifts of

Salvation

Joy

Peace

Love

Forgiveness

Mercy

Grace

Purpose

Vision

and so much more.

Waking up this morning, it was not about the gifts and remembrances of others (although it is nice), but about the greatest gift Christ gave me—His blood.

So join me today in my celebration. You are more than welcomed for the gift I was given, it was given to you too. Let’s have a party and celebrate in the joy of the Lord.

Ohhh, I want that!

2008-11-19T10:20:00.000-08:00

“Ohhhhh, I want that!” Right now that seems to be one of my three year old’s favorite phrases. He does not discriminate either. He wants the latest toy featured on the commercials, the hot new pair of shoes Nike says is a must have, and even the freshly baked cookies that appear from the Pillsbury oven. Oh, yes, he must have it all. Not only does he want it all, but he knows exactly who to ask for it—Mommy and Daddy.

Immediately, upon seeing whatever it is he wants, he comes running. Grabbing one of our hands to get our attention, he asks “Mommy, will you get that for me?” or “Daddy, will you take me to the store and buy that for me?” Later on that same day, when talking with his siblings, he will inform them that he is going to get whatever it is. You see, it doesn’t matter to him if he gets it right away or not, the point is that eventually he has faith to know that he is going to get it.

WOW! How amazing is it to watch a three year old put into practice what so many of us seasoned in Christ miss. He doesn’t hesitate to run to us for his petitions regardless to what they may be. He knows that he will not always get a yes, but that does not stop him from coming to us, being persistent, and believing that eventually it will come. He doesn’t have to hold the item before claiming ownership over it. He has faith to believe that if we have told him that we will get it for him, it is a done deal.

7"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened." Matthew 7: 7-8 NIV

You see, Christ wants us to come to Him will all of our petitions great or small, but so many of us have stopped asking because of the disappointments of life. We have focused so much on what was not given that we have become afraid to go to God with the desires of our hearts. Even, I am still working on that one. But my three year old has taught me that it is not about being disappointed about the no’s but being thankful for the yes’s when they come.

Christ wants us to seek Him. When my son wanted something, he didn’t go to his brothers, he came to the source. That is exactly what Christ wants us to do. Seek Him out. Do what is necessary to get to Him in prayer, in worship, in studying His word. In doing so, we recognize that every good and perfect gift comes from God and not man.

So many times, I have limited the desires of my heart for fear of being disappointed because of situations in my life. In doing so, I have also limited how God can move in my life because I had allowed situations to cause me to be afraid to dream big and to desire more out of life. I am thankful that God can use anyone and anything to minister to where we are.

The Goalie

2008-11-16T09:55:00.000-08:00

This season, my eldest son began playing soccer. This was a new experience for me particularly because I was very limited in my knowledge of the sport. Along the way, he was assigned the position of playing the goalie. At times, how well he did or did not do his job as a goalie would be the difference between his team winning or losing.

You see the job of the goalie on a soccer team is different from all of the other positions. They have several jobs which are to

communicate with other players: The goalie is able to see the field from an angle different than the other team members. Often times, they see the whole field while others are focused on one section.

defend the goal: They prevent the other team from being able to score which can inevitable result in winning or losing the game.

You see, goalies are all over the place. They dive for the ball while often using their entire body to cover the ball in spite of the grit of the ground. They jump in the air to prevent a ball from entering the net which may often end with another player connecting with them in some way. The goalie must be able to predict, to observe, to react, and to plan while still being a part of the team.

Sitting watching my son protect the goal, it started me thinking. I began to reflect on Proverbs 4: 23 which states “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” We are to guard our heart in the same manner the goalie defends the goal. At different times in life, there will be shots from the team of the enemy that seek to cause us to fall away from our Lord and Savior. Sometimes we will have to dive, covering the ball with the Word of Christ. Other times, we may have to jump high keeping our focus not on the words other people say or focus the actions of those that cause us pain, but on those things above. The jumping causes us to stretch and to go beyond our normal limitations. It requires faith.

But protecting our hearts, ultimately, requires us to have open communication with our Lord and Savior. In communicating with Him, He is able to heal of those areas that have caused us pain, have caused us to become discouraged, or have caused us to want to give up. That communication keeps us open to receiving and being able to give forgiveness, mercy and grace.

Who knew you could learn so much just from watching a game?

Giving Glory

2008-11-10T06:18:00.000-08:00

Devotional for November 10-16, 2008

“23) This is what the LORD says: ‘Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom or the strong man boast of his strength or the rich man boast of his riches, 24) but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,’ declares the LORD.” Jeremiah 9: 23-24 NIV

Beware ladies and gentlemen. There is an epidemic spreading among believers. This illness can block blessings and sever a relationship with Christ without you even major symptoms. This sickness I am referring to is the “I” syndrome.

Ah, yes, the “I” syndrome has impacted many believers. Causes of this syndrome include pride and haughtiness. This illness causes believers to focus on themselves thus taking their eyes off of Christ. Symptoms will include statements such as “If it had not been for me, then they would have never . . .”, “I’m the one that . . .”, or “Why do I always have to . . .”. Other symptoms include boasting of ones abilities over another. In this sickness, the believer believes that they are the reason for their blessings, their abilities, their strength. Then just like that the “I” syndrome has over taken them.

Jeremiah was warning the people against such a problem when the people began to put their trust in their own strength and wisdom. He knew the folly in placing glory in anything or anyone else other than Christ. The people believed that their wealth, their politics, and their military strength would prevent them from experiencing the wrath of God and that they did not need to keep their covenant with Him. In these scriptures he shares with them what the Lord had spoken to him.

First, he shares that “let not the wise man boast of his wisdom”. In the heat of battle, many men have been known to make life shattering decisions because they placed their trust in their own wisdom instead of trusting the wisdom of God. Man’s wisdom is limited and, in many ways, is faulty but God knows the beginning and the end. His wisdom knows no boundaries.

Secondly, he shares that let not the “strong man board of his strength”. Many battles we face are not won to the physically strong. Look at the battle between David and Goliath. Yet, when we are strengthen by Christ, we are able withstand any battle for Christ has already one the war.

Thirdly, he states that let not the “rich man boast of his riches”. Money can not stop the plans of Christ. Money does not get one into heaven nor does it forgive sins.
Those who are plagued with the “I” syndrome will boast of themselves and which will eventually lead to a break in their relationship with Christ.

So what do we do? The scripture explains it so clearly. If we are going to boast then we are to boast in the greatness, the love, the strength, the mercy, the grace of Christ. The only way to keep the symptoms of the “I” syndrome away is to give glory to Christ in all things. Recognize that every good and perfect gift comes from Christ. It is not us who save, but the blood that was shed for us. If you find you have any of these symptoms showing up from time to time, take your focus off of you and return it back to Christ.

Prayer.
My Father in Heaven, I am so humbled that You continue to love me the way that you do. Every day you shower me with such love that I am unable to fathom the depths in which it runs. Forgive me Lord for boasting of myself. Forgive me for thinking that it is because of me. Help me to keep my eyes focused on you, humbly submitted to your will. Guide me in how to use my words so that I am edifying you and not looking to boast of myself. Thank you that you continue to give me opportunities to grow. I am so happy to know that you love me in spite of. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Jeremiah 9: 23-26
Tuesday Galatians 6: 14
Wednesday 1 Corinthians 1: 31
Thursday Micah 7: 18
Friday Isaiah 61: 8
Saturday Psalm 20: 7
Sunday Exodus 34: 6-7

Application
Anytime you begin to focus on what you are doing or have done for others, take that moment to give credit back to Christ.

To recieve these weekly devotionals in your email, click here to sign up.

The Pack Rat

2008-11-04T09:32:00.000-08:00

When I began to help my mother clean up my grandmother’s home a few years ago, I was amazed. Inside of cabinets were all sorts of letters and cards from all kinds of people. She had kept every birthday card, anniversary card, and any form of correspondence from family members to coworkers that had been given to her. Some of these items dated back more than 50 years. I am not sure if all of them had significance to her or if she just became hesitant to get rid of things.

Even for myself, I find that I keep all sorts of things and that I am cautious about getting rind of anything. I started holding on to letters, cards, flyers from events, every paper that my children would draw on. Somewhere along the way, keeping things became a habit. With each move, I had more and more STUFF. It wasn’t necessary important items, but just stuff I was afraid to let go off.

Then along the way, I recognize that can hold on to more than just things. We can hold on to relationships, careers, or even old ways. It just seems easier to keep what you have than to get rid of it. But the more you keep the less you have for anything new.

I started recognizing that I was holding on because I was afraid of what would happen when I no longer had it, but that is not the way it is in Christ. Christ wants to take us to new places, to connect us to new people, to help aid us in developing new ways of thinking. Sometimes, in order to go forward, it requires cleaning out what is and making room for what it to come. I am not saying that it is not a simple or pain free process, but the outcome is worth the process.

Now, I am no longer the pack rat. I allow Christ to guide me in what to keep, what to tweak, and what to trash. We don’t have to hold on to unhealthy relationships, things, or be complacent to a way of life; we just need to hold on to Christ. It is in keeping our relationship with Him that is the treasure worth keeping.

Family Time

2008-10-27T02:54:00.000-07:00

In today’s time, it is vital more than ever to spend quality time with our families. Our children are being bombarded with all sorts of suggestions from the media, pressure from their peers, along with just the regular growing pains. As parents there are several ways that we can choose to spend that quality time with our children to make any moment a teachable moment.

At our house, we eat together 90% of the time. We sit at the table, pray together, and use that time to talk to one another about our day. Other family times can vary from board games, to video games, to family movie night.

I am often looking for fun and interesting ways and activities that we can do as a family.

When I visited the home of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Atlanta, GA, I was impressed to learn that each night when he and his siblings came to dinner they were expected to be able to talk about one event taking place in the news. Their father wanted them to be able to talk about national news events to be able to learn that there was a bigger world outside of their home. He wanted his children to see the bigger picture and not have tunnel vision.

Then, yesterday at church, the pastor’s wife explained that they do “Table Topics” during their dinner time. Table topics is a container filled with different topics and questions. Each time they come together at the table to eat, they choose one of the topics or questions. Each person takes a turn answer the question or responding to the topic. It is just a good way to spark conversation.

Spending time with our children is one of the greatest investments we can make.

I am interested to know, how do you have family time in your home? Or do you have any creative suggestions on spending time with your family?

God's Plan

2008-10-24T10:06:00.000-07:00

Often I believe that we expect God to flow the way this microwave generation flows. We expect to have the blessings, the growth, the favor right away without investing the time that is needed in preparation, prayer, and praise. I know that there are times in my walk with God I get impatient because of the knowledge I have of the revelations He has shared with me. During those times, I push and try to make things happen because it seems to be taking so long.

Even though Christ has created a specific plan for my life, it is up to me to do my part in the process. Sometimes, my part may be being still and being silent, which happen to be two areas God is truly developing in me. I want to go do; I want to call and share. At times, this can be a hindrance from me being able to receive the very blessing God has for me.

What I am learning is to be patient to trust God in the process to know that He is preparing me for His elevation and not for man’s. Christ knows those areas in us that need to be refined, removed, and improved so that the weight of our blessings do not crush us. I am learning to continue to seek God in prayer for guidance so that I do not get ahead of His timing. I am learning to praise God for what already is and all that is to come. I may not be in the place yet, but I praise God anyway because I know that in His timing is shall come to pass.

When I begin to question or get impatient, I am reminded of Proverbs 3: 5-6.

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”

This scripture always reminds me that all I need to do is just trust God, stop depending on my own knowledge, and continue to seek Him first. When I do this, I will know exactly what I need to do when I need to do it. There isn’t anything that I have to figure out, because He will make it plan to me.

Issue Management

2008-10-23T17:30:00.000-07:00

While doing my homework this week, I was required to read a chapter called “Issue Management”. In the chapter, the author Gary Marx (2006), defined an issue as “a trend, condition, critical uncertainty, or wildcard, internal or external, that may, will, or does affect the successful accomplishment of our objectives” (66).

An issue.

Although this book focuses on trends in education, this statement started me thinking about how it applies to my spiritual walk with Christ. What are my issues? What are the trends or conditions that affect my ability to be, do, become what Christ has put before me?

All of us have issues. Sometimes we may simply label it as life, but they are issues that hinder us from walking fruitfully in our relationship with Christ. Our issues may deal with fear, anger, or insecurity. Maybe the issues deal with spending to much time watching tv, on the internet, or on the phone instead of spending time with Him, your spouse or family.

Ah, yes, issues.

Today, I went into prayer for Christ to reveal to me those areas of my life that are hindrances to growing in Him and being the example He would have me to be. Thankfully, I serve a God that hears and answers my prayers. I am more aware of some of the issues that I allow to become distractions and I am already doing something about it.

I encourage each of you to take time in your private prayer time to seek out those issues that are hindrances in your walk with Christ so that you may be more fruitful in your relationship with Him.

Reference:

Marx, G. (2006). Future focused leadership: Preparing schools, students, and communities for tomorrow’s realities. Alexandria: ASCD.

Wow!

2008-10-22T08:57:00.000-07:00

Wow! After being quite busy for several days, I was quite humbled to learn that I have been blessed to recieve Friendship Award. Thank you Lori at Persevere, who so kindly blessed me and Valerie at Simply 4 God.

Friendship is can be so rare, but children seem to get it so well. I watch my 3 year old bounce into church so that he can see his "friends". He is not concerned with how well they speak, where they live, or how they look. No. None of these things make a difference, but, unfortunately, as we get older they do seem to make a difference. I love the innocence in friendships of children. Regardless of the arguements or problems they have, it quickly vanishes when they realize they are about to be separated. It is just too cute!

So ladies, thank you for passing on these awards to me. I appreciate your kindness and generousity. I pray that God may continue to bless you both richly.

A Simple One

2008-10-20T08:38:00.000-07:00

“How did I get here?”

“Where did it all begin?”

She sits, shoulders slumped, tissue crumpled in her hand, traces of tears on her usually vibrant cheeks. She is discouraged, frustrated, and bitter by the hand she felt she had been dealt in life.

“How do others do this?”

“How do they get past what I can’t seem to let go?”

This woman is no different than so many of us who have had valley experiences where the mountain seemed too large to climb and too wide to go around. Where did she go wrong? Where do many of us go wrong?

To read the rest of my article "A Simple One" visit Faithwebbin here.

Prepared to answer the question

2008-10-18T17:28:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had anyone ask you, “Is there anything I can do for you?” or “Can I help in anyway?” only to respond with “Umm, I don’t know” or “I’m not really sure”. Often, we pray asking God on how to accomplish the tasks He has put before us that we can miss His answer. Sometimes the way to accomplish certain tasks rest in the people He guides into our lives.

Yet, if you have been anything like me, I have often chosen to handle it all on my own. After all, they can’t complete the task like I can. What if they are late or if it is not to my liking? Isn’t it just easier to complete it myself? Again, this is just another way of us holding on to control. As long as we are completing the task ourselves then we think we can control the outcome.

When God gives you a big task, sometimes the only way to complete that task is through joining together with others He has committed to the vision. But you have to be willing to answer the question “What is it you want?”

In Nehemiah 2: 1-10, Nehemiah is serving King Artaxerxes as his cupbearer, when the king asks him “What is it you want?” (Nehemiah 2: 4a). Nehemiah could have said nothing and dismissed the question choosing to find another way to accomplish the task the Lord had charged him with, but he was prepared to answer the question.

He first prayed and then responded. He did not stumble or show any signs of lack of preparation. No, Nehemiah answered the king confidently and with faith. He understood that accepting the king’s help was one step in accomplishing the task.

I know that I am often at fault at not wanting to be a burden or bother others so I try to accomplish many tasks on my own; leaving me tired, often frustrated, and with other tasks that did not get completed. When my husband asks do I need help, I need to accept it more without trying to make sure that he does the work my way. Instead of being controlling, I thank God that He has sent people willing to work and help me accomplish my God given assignments. I am choosing to let go of being in control and be ready to answer the question.

Are you ready?

So thankful

2008-10-17T06:16:00.001-07:00

When I began this blog in July, I wasn't really familiar with the concept of a blog, how it worked, or if I had enough to say to keep one going. What I did know was that God guided me that this was the next step. So, I began. Now several months later, I realize that I don't have enough to say, but God does. I choose to be a willing vessel to Him, allowing Him to speak through me to whomever He sees fit. It is a humbling, wonderful opportunity that I so thankful to have.

So when I am blessed with awards such as the "Faithful Servant: Sowing the Seeds of Love Award" and the "Butterfly Award" from Valerie at Simply4God, I am thankful and appreciative that others have been blessed by the writings on my blog. The friendship and encouragement that I have received from Valerie since beginning this journey is priceless. I highly recommend reading her blog.

I have chosen to combine the list of individuals that I choose to pass on these awards too. Each of these women have touched me with their honesty, willingness to share the Word of Christ, and kind hearts. From all of their blogs, I have had opportunities to reflect, to grow, and to learn more about Christ and His word. Please take the time to visit their blogs.

I am pleased to pass on these awards to:

Again, I am thankful of the opportunity to receive such awards and to be able to bless others.

Are you ready to be a talent scout?

2008-10-14T02:54:00.000-07:00

Recently, I have become quite intrigued by sporting talent scouts. Now, I will be the first to admit, I am not a big sports fan. I know very little about most sports. It just has not been my cup of tea; however, when I think of the leadership, I have begun to think of these scouts.

Sporting talent scouts are trained evaluators who look for athletes of a specific sport to determine if that person’s talents and skills will enhance their organization. Scouts are usually looking for two types of selections. Most scouts are interested in the selection of prospects. These are young players who often require some further development by the team but have been identified as being talented enough for that effort. These scouts recognize the potential the young player has and the potential he/she may bring in future payoffs for the team. They are able to look long term to envision the impact the young player will have on the team and sport in the next 3-5 years. Then other advance scouts are able to watch the team that their team is going to play in order to analyze their strategy.

These scouts keep a close eye on local sporting teams and their athletes hoping to find the next star player. They listen to coaches, to players, even to local community members anticipating that someone will give him/her the connection to the next Tiger Woods, Michael Jordon, or Hank Aaron.

As believers, we can learn quite a bit from these talent scouts. When we interact with those in our homes or in our churches, what do we see? Do we see the future talents and skills that need development for the building up the kingdom? When we are able to see the potential in others, we are able to take the time to help that person develop, to grow, to mature so that they can fulfill their purpose in Christ. Seeing potential requires vision to see not just where that person is, but where God can take that person. Imagine the difference if we would just get involved with helping cultivate others.

We first must start in ripening the potential in our children and our spouses. Instead of being quick to speak on all the things they do wrong, speak life over them. Sure your child may have spoken a lie, but speak that he/she will be a honest person in the name of Jesus. In that one statement, you have chosen not to focus on the now, but on what is to come. The same can be said for your spouse. If he is off track, speak life over him NOW that he will submit his life to Christ and be the head of the home Christ designed him to be.

Then take part in advancing the lives of those in your church, community, school even your job. When we take the time to envision the impact these individuals could have with encouragement, direction, guidance, even correction. What are you willing to do? Are you willing to be a talent scout or are you comfortable just sitting watching in the stands?

Being His Rib

2008-10-11T11:15:00.000-07:00

Now, I am not one for tags unless I believe that they will somehow glorify Christ. With that being said, I do not mind participating in "Why I love my husband?". It is a wonderful opportunity to share with others the beauty of marriage and the joys of allowing Christ, and not self, to make 2 become 1.

So what are the guidelines?

Grab the graphic and insert with these rules, in your post.

Give at least 5 reasons why you love your hubby. List more if you want.

Tag 5 people (or more) to play along and link to their blogs in your post.

Then visit those women’s blogs and leave them a comment on any of their posts.

Why do I love my husband?

His dedication:

My hubby is dedicated to his relationship with Christ. From the first moment God bought him into my life, he has chosen to life his life surrendered to Christ. He consistantly chooses to study, learn, and apply the Word of Christ in his life. He is dedicated to having Christ the center of our marriage. We agreed that in the face of doubt, we will see what the Word says about the issue. We agreed to seek God in prayer. He spends time with God on an individual basis and in covenant with me. Not only is he dedicated to Christ, but he is dedicated to our family. Time and time again, he has sacrificed so that we would have without complaint or frustration.

He is a giver.:

At the time, my husband entered my life, I was in a challenging place finacially. I had debt and was often guided by fear of not having. Although I was a tither, I would be hindered to give any additional money. It was easy to give my time or my talents to help others, but I was often afraid to give my money to others. Being around my husband, I have learned how to give on multiple levels. He has always done whatever he could to help another person whether that meant with his money, his time, or his talents. It truly is a gift of his. God has used just the way he lives his life to help me grow as a giver as well.

He makes me laugh.:

For those who know me, they know I am not a playful individual. I cannot tell jokes, even though I try from time to time. When I make someone laugh, it is usually by accident. With my hubby, he constantly makes me smile and laught. I am talking about the type of laughing that has your stomach hurting. The kind of laughing where tears form in your eyes and you can't seem to stop. He does all sorts of antics that I just love. Even now as I think about it, I have a big ole' grin on my face.

He is supportive.:

My hubby has supported me time and time again. Whenever I want to start a new initiative, he listens, asks questions, gives suggestions, and walks through the stages with me. When I went back to school to obtain my Master's degree while still working full time, he didn't complain. He would do whatever he could so that I could do my homework and be prepared for class. Even now, as I am working on my PhD, he will read over my work, let me run ideas by him, watch the kids, anything he can to help. He does all this with only some college experience. He is not intimidated by me having more education than him. Quite the contrary, he supports me, encourages me, and keeps me lifted up in his prayers.

He loves me.:

This would seem like an obvious one, but when 50% of marriages end in divorce, it is not as common as it once was. He does all sorts of things to show his love for me all throughout the year. Most of the time, we do not make a big deal of Valentine's day, birthdays, even our anniversary. (Surprising huh?) The reason we don't is because we show our love throughout the year. It is quite common for my hubby to write a love letter, break out into song, take me out to dinner (when we can get someone to watch the kids), or simply handle all the cleaning so that I can take a nap. He teaches our children to respect me. I don't have to be around him for he to speak highly of me or to speak kind words.

So who is next?

Bout Crazy

Persevere

Edge of Design

Hope you enjoyed!

Some changes

2008-10-08T21:56:00.000-07:00

Greeting everyone,

Recently, I have received some comments that there have been difficulties in reading my blog. Upon doing some digging, the problem was the template itself. Although, I loved the layout, it is more important that you are able to read the blog. I am in the process of revamping, so please be patient with me. Hopefully, the new layout is more user friendly.

His Cheerleader

2008-10-07T18:05:00.000-07:00

I have been blessed with such a fantastic, Godly husband. He is so much more than I even knew to pray for. I remember sitting in my pastor’s office over seven years ago saying that I was ready to be a wife. All I wanted in my spouse was that he love God more than he love me. I knew that if he loved God then he would love me. It would simply be a trickle down effect. I am thankful that God not only heard my prayer, but answered it in such a wonderful, loving man.

Unfortunately, I think that, as wives, we miss the mark in showing our appreciation to our spouses for all that they do. It is easy to begin to focus on what they aren’t doing, what they don’t say, or what they don’t understand, that we forget to build them up. We use words like “You never” or “You always” without even realize that those words are like mortar used to build up the walls in our husband’s hearts. If we vocalize more what they aren’t doing or focus more on the expectations that haven’t met, it can be disheartening and discouraging.

I am not saying to pretend that he is without flaws, but are you his cheerleader? When you attend a football game, cheerleaders are constantly supporting the players whether they are winning or losing. They aren’t standing on the side yelling “Hey you, why did you drop the ball?” or “Why can’t you do anything right?” No. Instead, they not only cheer on the player but they also encourage others to see the positive in the players as well. Do you cheer him on? Do you say thank you? Or let him know all the ways it pleases you to be HIS wife?

Each day I make it a priority to encourage my spouse and let him know that I am very thankful that God placed him in my life as my husband. I make a choice to use my words to build him up and cheer him on. Of course, some days are easier than others. Marriage is a daily walk as is our relationship with Christ. Be encouraged.

Uplifting Our Leaders

2008-10-05T17:08:00.000-07:00

Devotional for October 6-12, 2008

“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” Hebrews 13: 7 NIV

The month of October is reserved as being Clergy Appreciation Month. This is a time set aside to say thank you to all the men and women of God who stand up time and time again to share the Word of Christ in an uncompromised fashion. This is a time to show appreciation for all the hours they have committed to building the ministry, serving the people, interceding for others in their private prayer times. This is a time that we, as the lay members, can choose to share just how much we value our pastors, their spouses, the music minister, the youth pastor, and all those in leadership within ministry.

Saying thank you and showing appreciation is not about receiving wordly gifts or some new way for greeting card companies to make extra money. In Hebrews, believers are extolled to remember our Christian leaders. He is not just referring to the leaders that are in our churches now, but all those that have gone before. Remember those past leaders who were praying even before there was a church; those who gave their time, sweat, and prayers to building up the kingdom. Their legacy is in speaking the Word, sharing the Word, and living the Word in our lives and in the lives of others.

We are called to remember, value, appreciate those who have bought forth the living Word in our lives through their examples. These are people who lived and live the Word through example. I am not saying that these individuals do not make mistakes, but they are mature in their walk with Christ. The author challenges us to remember not just the person, but the manner in which the person lived his/her life. We are to remember and learn from the manner in which they applied faith in their day to day living.

So this month, I am thankful to all the men and women of God who have boldly stood to share the Gospel of Christ with me and with so many others. I am thankful for all those who are overseas serving in countries where it is illegal to preach the Gospel of Christ. Thank you does not seem adequate enough to show my appreciation for my mother, who is an Elder, who stood in faith praying and believing that I would surrender my life to Christ. Who continues to encourage me in the Word. I am thankful to Bishop Ryals who did not mind answering all of my questions (and there were a lot) so that I could learn more about Christ. Thank you Minister Stanley, Elder Riley, Minister Geraldine, Bishop Jakes, Pastor Joel Olsteen, Elder Owens, and so many others that have helped me in my walk with Christ. May God continue to richly bless all of you.

Prayer
My awesome Father, it is amazing to me how you created so many of us to share your word in such different ways. I am thankful for all the men and women who have stood firm in faith praying, working, tithing, doing all that they could to build your kingdom. It is awesome to know that even when I was out in the world there were people praying on my behalf, believing that this day would come. Help me to continue to set an example before others so that my legacy may be rooted in your word and plan for my life. Please bless all those who diligently seek you and serve you in ministry leadership. Help them to continue to stand regardless of how situations may seem. Thank you for the strength and prayers of those who have passed. In the name of Jesus, I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday............Hebrews 13: 7
Tuesday...........2 Timothy 2: 1-2
Wednesday.....Titus 1: 7-9
Thursday........Jeremiah 10: 21
Friday.............Luke 22: 27
Saturday.........Acts 20: 28
Sunday............Hebrews 13: 17

Application
This month take time out to show appreciation to those in ministry. Send a card, buy them a gift, and simply say thank you.

Is he on the roof?

2008-10-02T03:06:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of my marriage, I was not the most pleasant person when I would come home from work. I would walk into the home, see items in disarray and immediately begin to fuss. It would be a rare occasion that I would enter our home with pleasant words or even a simple hello. My words were focused on all the things that I felt should have been done, all the things that needed to get done, and why weren’t these things done to my satisfaction. Even when I would hug my husband or children hello, I was fussing at the same time.

Maybe this might sound familiar. Why is this living room such a mess? What have you been doing while I was gone? Do you plan on cleaning up sometime today? You did what? Why aren’t your chores completed? Am I suppose to do everything around here?

During that time, I didn’t realize what was going on. Fusssing had become my normal. I didn’t realize that I was creating a tense environment. My words and actions were not creating a loving environment for my husband and sons.

Gradually, the Holy Spirit began to deal with me and my actions. Then one day, began reading about the foolish woman in Proverbs.

“Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.” Proverbs 21: 9
“Better to live in a desert than with a quarrelsome and ill-tempered wife.” Proverbs 21: 19

“Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.” Proverbs 25: 24

My God, what was I doing? I knew then that it was my responsibility as a wife and mother to make some changes. The more I continued down this path, then eventually my husband and sons were going to shut down and shut me out. This behavior was only going to result in marital issues and a relationship breakdown. Was I creating an environment in which my husband was excited about coming home to spend time with me or was I creating an environment I which my husband would rather be on the roof than in a house with a nagging woman?

So, some changes were in order. What is a nagging, quarrelsome wife or mother to do?

Pray:
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.” Proverbs 31: 30

Guard your tongue:
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Proverbs 15: 1

Submit:
“Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord.” Ephesians 5: 22

Choose wise actions:
“The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.” Proverbs 14: 1

Each day, I would make a conscious choice to enter my home with pleasant words and a kind heart. Over time, it became a part of me. I still have moments, when I have to rein in my tongue so that I do not overwhelm my spouse or children with my comments and commentary, but I am thankful that I have improved thus far. When I changed, then the environment of my home changed. You see, it doesn’t matter if you are a working woman or a stay at home mom, we each have a choice in the environment we create in our home. Ladies, we have a choice to build our houses in wisdom or we can run our husband to the roof.

Reflective points:

When I enter the home, how do I greet my spouse and children?
What can I do to use my words in a more loving way?
When my husband or children leave home, do they leave with words of encouragement or words of criticism?

My Shoes

2008-09-28T13:13:00.000-07:00

Oh, I do love a nice pair of shoes. My favorites tend to have 3 inch thin heels with a round toe. I am not picky on color, because I happen to just love color. I am apt to spend more time looking for a nice pair of pumps than I am a pair of tennis shoes. For me, shoe shopping can be an arduous task at times. My shoe size varies from a 5 to a 7 depending on the shoe, but always a AAA. Basically, that means I have a very narrow foot which causes finding shoes to be quite a challenge.

I think that the shoes we were can be quite similar to the walk with have with being who we are in Christ. Let me explain.

My momma shoes:
Growing up, I would often go in my mom’s closet or my grandmother’s closet to try on their shoes. Placing my tiny foot inside of them, I would often clump around clumsily which would usually end up with me tumbling to the floor. But they made wearing them look so easy. They didn’t tumble like I was.

The same can be said when we try to do things that are not our calling. Each of us has special gifts and talents that God specifically put inside of us. What is simple for one person can cause another to tumble. It is important to walk in what God has designed for us.

The growth spurt shoes:
Boy, oh boy, do you know when a child has hit a growth spurt in their foot. Shoes that were once comfortable now hurt. You can see the discomfort written all over that person’s face. The challenge is time. When a child goes through a growth spurt, their foot can be too small for the old size but not big enough for the bigger size. So parents will sometimes buy thicker socks or have the child wear more than on pair until the foot has grown enough to fit the larger size.

Our walk in who we are in Christ is no different. We are constantly growing. As we grow, we can outgrow doing the things that we use to do to be where God wants us. Sometimes the growing phase may even hurt. When we go to that next level in Christ, we may need more prayer, more personal Bible study time, more period. Just as the child’s foot is padded, Christ has others praying on our behalf in the spirit for us during the growing phase.

But everyone has it shoes:
Now, these shoes are quite different. This is usually the pair of shoes that you buy on impulse, buy because others are wearing it, or buy because you let yourself get talked into it. These shoes may only match one outfit in your closet. Or worse yet, you can only wear the shoes long enough to walk from the car to the church pew where you quickly take them off. Yes, these shoes may be cute, but they serve any other purpose.

In our walk, there are many areas that seem appealing to us. There are many opportunities that only serve to be distractions for us. Sure, you may be noticed for being on the committee but what about all the energy it drains from you? These activities are opportunities for you to be drained; thus hindering from doing exactly what it is God has directed you to do.

Ahhh, just right shoes:
If you have ever put your foot into a shoe that fits just right, it is as if your foot says thank you. Wearing a pair of shoes that fit properly do more than just make your feet feel nice. It can keep your lower back from hurting. It can help provide the needed support for weak knees. In the right pair of shoes, you can walk for long periods of time, stand for that important meeting, praise God without the discomfort of that pinkie toe. (You know what I mean!) The right pair of shoes makes the world of difference.

When we are walking in the path God has for us, we are able to go the distance. It just fits. I am not saying that there will not be challenges, but you know in your spirit that you are in God’s timing and plan. At this place you are free to be who you are without feeling inferior, ill prepared, or inexperienced. You know that you just fit.

So ladies, I encourage you to take a look at your shoes. Check to make sure that you have the right fit for the journey God has created you for.

Working in Wisdom

2008-09-25T02:42:00.000-07:00

I am a worker. My mother never had to motivate me to set goals for myself or had to motivate me to get involved at school or in my community. As I continued to grow into a woman, my work ethic only grew. Actually, it grew to a point that I didn’t really realize the value in resting. I became so familiar with working that I could not recognize when God was calling me to rest or when God was telling me no. It is easy for me to see opportunities and to jump right on them just because I am used to being busy. The problem with this is that not everything I have been involved in has been directed by God.

There are certain areas and opportunities that God specifically charges to us. When He calls us to these areas, He has also equipped us with the giftings, talents, patience, wisdom, faith, etc to accomplish the task. It is when we decide to take on areas because others have said we would be good at it; because it is an area of interest for us; or because we don’t know how to be still that we create stress, frustration, and a lack of balance for ourselves.

In the book of Nehemiah, Nehemiah was able to go forward in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem not because of his personal attachment, but because he had been directed by God to do so. Nehemiah 2:12 says, “And I arose in the night, I and some few men with me, neither told I any man what my God had put in my heart to do at Jerusalem; neither was there any beast with me, save the beast that I rode upon.” (KJV). He was aware that his work was directed by God and with God’s charge comes His favor, His guidance, and His grace. God will provide the people that are needed, the materials for the task, or whatever else is needed to accomplish His plan.

We are to be careful in adding more to our schedules simply because we are use to being busy. Now, I am more apt to go to God in prayer and to seek the counselor of the Elders of my church before taking on a new task. I must choose to exercise self control and discipline to keep my focus on those areas God has specifically charged to me rather than adding what I think I should be doing. I am thankful for learning how to work in wisdom.

So, I encourage you to move in wisdom in your goals and schedule. Seek God in prayer as to what you should be doing and the timing of the task. Allow God to also guide you in the value of resting in Him. It makes a world of difference.

Are you willing to carry?

2008-09-22T06:57:00.000-07:00

Devotional for September 22-28, 2008

“53) When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret and anchored there. 54) As soon as they got out of the boat, people recognized Jesus. 55) They ran throughout that whole region and carried the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. 56) And wherever he went—into villages, towns or countryside—they placed the sick in the marketplaces. They begged him to let them touch even the edge of his cloak, and all who touched him were healed.” Mark 6: 53-56

He had arrived. Although the path was slated to go to Bethsaida, He was there in Gennesarat, a city known for its vast fertility and beauty. Once His boat was anchored and He began to go about, the people knew Him. They knew that Christ was in their presence. For they had heard of His miracles and the signs and wonders that followed Him wherever He went. Immediately, the people began to run. They went to get their sick, their wounded, their hurting to only place these people in the path of Christ.

I imagine them carrying bed after bed to the city where they heard of Christ presence. These people knew that God had the ability to heal all of the sick, but they had to get the people there. They stopped working, stopped washing their clothes, stop doing whatever it was to make sure that their sick would have the chance to get to Christ. Placing the bodies of the afflicted in the marketplace, they cried out for the sick on their behalf to Christ. These people were not concerned with their own cares, but had a heart for those that were sick.

All around us the hurting, the sick, the wounded are there. Some are afflicted with illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, or fibroids. Others are wounded from divorce, verbally abusive parents, physically abusive spouses, or a broken heart. Then there are those hurting from callous words spoken in frustration, nonchalant attitudes of those who desire not to get involved, or from the body of believers who refuse to help. Yes, these people surround us as believers every day. So what are we to do about it?

As believers, we are called to pray and intercede on behalf of those that are hurting. When we enter our private times of prayer, intercession is our way of carrying the sick. We are able to prayer for salvation of the lost, restoration of the weary, healing of the sick, and so much more. This requires us to get outside of ourselves and to have the faith to believe in Jehovah Rapha, the Lord our healer. We are called to share the Word of God in our homes, our jobs, our grocery stores, wherever. When we take the Word to the people this is also our way of carrying the sick. Please take the time to pray for others, to share the Gospel of Christ, to uplift those who are weighted down. For truly, our God is able to heal.

Prayer
My Lord and Savior, I am truly thankful that you are Jehovah Rapha, the Lord my healer. Thank you for healing me of the broken places in my life. Continue to mold me and purge me of those areas that hinder me in my walk with you. Thank you that in spite of the brokenness, the pain, the discomfort, you not only heal but you also restore. I pray that you may bless all those who interceded for me time and time again. Help me to have a heart for your people and for those who are sick, hurting and wounded. Help me to get pass my own selfish desires and seek to carry the sick to you. Strengthen all those that are spiritual intercessors. Lord I love how you love me. In Jesus name, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday..............Mark 6: 53-56
Tuesday ............Matthew 14: 34-36
Wednesday ......Acts 5: 12-16
Thursday .........Mark 2: 1-12
Friday ...............Numbers 15: 38-40
Saturday ..........Psalm 9:10
Sunday .............Matthew 9: 20-26

Application
Take the time in prayer to pray for others whom you may know that are unsaved, hurting, sick, or wounded in any area each day this week.

To subscribe to my weekly devotionals, please click here.

Called to pray

2008-09-18T02:46:00.000-07:00

Our society seems to love to watch others fall. When a person makes a mistake, it becomes primetime news. It is plastered over magazines, newspapers, and even the internet. Then it spills over into our homes, workplaces, and churches. Some believers gather together and gossip over the changes they see in their leaders, gossip over the someone’s latest sin, gossip over the past of someone who is now a new creature in Christ.

For the past year or so, I have noticed a great number of leaders within ministry experience spiritual attack. These attacks have been in their marriages, with many leaders walking away from marriage to embrace divorce. These attacks have been in finance, in family, and/or even within themselves. Instead of the people of God rallying together to pray, many are gathered together criticizing, judging, and/or gossiping.

God wants us to uplift one another in words, in deeds, but especially in prayer. Saints, there is strength in our prayers. Our leaders need us to pray for them. Our pastors, their spouses, their families, need us to intercede for them in our private prayer time. We are called to pray. Whenever I notice something off regarding a man or woman of God, I take the time to pray for them. I may not know them personally, but I do know that we are all serving the same God and desire to build His kingdom.

In Nehemiah, we are reminded of our call to pray. When the people came to Nehemiah to inform him of the challenges the people were facing, he didn’t judge them, gossip about their mistakes, or criticize what they should have done. No. Instead, he immediately sought God in prayer. Nehemiah 1: 4, “And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven”. Then he continues to petition God in prayer saying, “Let thine ear now be attentive, and thine eyes open, that thou mayest hear the prayer of thy servant, which I pray before thee now, which I pray before thee now, day and night, for the children of Israel thy servants and I confess the sins of the children of Israel, which we have sinned against thee; both I and my father’s house have sinned” (Nehemiah 1: 6 KJV).

Pray. Anytime you are tempted to comment on the actions of other believers, specifically those in spiritual leadership, pray. Our pastors, their spouses, their families need us to pray for them. They need us to get beyond our personal opinions, beyond our offenses, beyond ourselves and go to God on their behalf. Nehemiah didn’t wait for someone to plan a prayer night. No, he didn’t wait for someone else to suggest they do something. He knew that the one of the greatest actions he could do was pray for the people.

So I encourage you today to take time out and pray for those in leadership of your church, other ministries, our country and to refrain from getting caught up in using your words in vain ways.

There are many ways to incorporate prayer such as:

1. Join a prayer group
If you are not involved with a prayer group in your church, get involved. Take the time our of your week to be available to pray with others. It is vital for the laymen of the church to join together in corporate prayer for the leaders.

2. Set time aside each day specifically to pray for our leaders
Find time throughout your day to pray for our leaders. This may mean getting up an hour earlier, praying during your lunch break, or simply taking time to pray while driving home. It is not about the time of the day or night you pray as long as you are praying. God will guide the rest.

3. Join with your leaders in prayer
If the leaders of your church have requested a specific prayer time or fasting time, be obedient and get involved. Join with them in submission to the authorities that are over the ministry.

Let us be encouraged to accept the call to pray and know that we serve a God that not only hears our prayers, but is a prayer answerer.

I'm it

2008-09-17T17:39:00.000-07:00

Well, ladies. I’m it. I have been tagged by my fellow sister in Christ Valerie at Simply4God. As a part of the tag, I am to write 8 random facts about myself.

Here are the rules:

1. Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves.

2. People who are tagged need to write their own blog about their eight things and post these rules.

3. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.

4. Don't forget to leave them a comment telling them they're tagged, and to read your blog.

Hmmm. . . . Now this is quite thought provoking.

1. I love to laugh but can’t tell jokes. I can listen to someone tell a joke and try to repeat it, it is horrible. No one ever laughs.

2. Coconut makes me immediately ill. If I eat foods, especially chocolate, with coconut, I will immediately throw up.

3. After the birth of my third son I experienced a form of baby blues. At first I did not know what was going on with me and felt quite ashamed for my feelings. I hid my emotions for a while from everyone by trying to put on a brave front and show everyone that I could handle things. It was like being in a prison. With the help of Christ and a great support team in my husband and mom, I was able to over come it.

4. I had planned to attend Georgia Tech to major in Engineering during my junior year of high school. Then after having a wonderful English teacher that same year, I changed from wanting to do Engineering to wanting to be a writer. My plan was to attend college in New York. God’s plan however was quite different. I never would have thought I would have ended up being a high school English teacher or enjoy working with youth.

5. I can’t drink orange juice or eat oranges in the mornings. The acid in the juice makes me ill.

6. All three of my sons have been born at least a month early and all were almost 8 lbs. They each have added to my life in such special ways and helped me to develop into a better person. They are my walking reminders of God's love, grace, and mercy.

7. The doctors expected me to miscarry with my third son. Every time I would step into their office, the nurses and doctors all kept preparing me to loose him. I knew that God had already spoken to me that he would live and that his life would be used in a mighty way. So regardless to all their negative comments and expectations, I knew that God was going to work everything out. I take joy in watching him run around.

8. Being creative is my outlet. I love to crochet, scrapbook, and sew just to name a few. I also enjoy photography. I try to learn to do something new each year.

So now it is my turn to pass it on. Unfortunately, I am only able to tag three. Please take the time to visit their blogs.

1. Edge of Design

2. Bout Crazy

3. Persevere

An Emotional Moment

2008-09-14T16:52:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning he was there with me. He held my quivering body in his arms, while tears poured rivers down my cheeks and snot ran clear from my nose. It seemed that everything in me hurt. I just kept staring through the tears at the ugliness (or so I thought at the time). Surely, he saw it too. Or maybe that was just my fear showing its face. I stared at her. The roundness in her cheeks. The fullness of her hips. The belly. Ugh, the belly. I saw her and she was me. Staring at my husband, I cried, “Look at me, I am fat. I am ugly.”

That Sunday morning before church, I changed clothes 10 times. I cried brushing my teeth, while combing my hair, or anything that required me to look in a mirror at myself. I was horrified. Let me just say, especially now that I am not in that emotional moment, I can have a tendency to be quite harsh and critical of myself. In reality, I have only gained about 10-15 pounds, but those pounds revealed so much more.

At that moment of not being able to fit any of my clothes, I realized that the same insecurities that had been plaguing me as a young girl, who constantly tried to hide behind masks, was there. Why? I thought I was past this. I didn’t think that this was a part of me anymore.

I thought I was purged of all the weeds that had been sown in my mind of my value, my self worth. Surely, at this stage I was not still going through this. Yet, I was and I was right back having to face was really inside of me. I heard those voices of people who have criticized my weight. Those who valued me as a trophy piece not as a person as long as I could fit in the right size. Right then I hearing the voices of those from my past but failed to here the one voice that matter, my Heavenly Father.

When we allow insecurity to attach to us, it becomes a leech.

1. It drains us of our praise.
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139: 14

2. It drains us of our purpose.
“Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.” Jeremiah 1: 5

3. It drains us of our faith.
“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Hebrews 11: 6

4. It drains us of our worth to Christ.
"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

You see, the enemy was just using an old area to attack me during a new level in my walk with Christ. He wanted me to forget who I am in Christ. He wanted me to have negative confessions over my life. If I don't see my value in Christ, then I am unable to walk in the fullness that He has for me. I allow fear and doubt to grow in places that faith and trust in Christ should be. It is when we are under attack that we realize exactly what we really believe about ourselves and about our God. As a wife, mother, and minister, I am constantly speaking life over those lives that God has entrusted to me. Everyday I am speaking God's blessings over my husband and over my children. Yet, I have been failing to even speak into my own life. Standing there in tears in that bathroom, I failed to see me the way that God does. I failed to stand on His word and speak life over myself.

It is in the negative confessions that we block the blessings of Christ in our lives. We reject that God would want to use us. We say things like, "I'm not smart enough", "I'm not good enough", "I'm too fat", "I'm ugly", and so much more. These statements are stumbling blocks to us growing in our relationship with Christ and with those who seek to love us. These negative confessions can cause us to miss out on the intimacy that Christ desires to have with us.

For everything that insecurity does, God’s word conquers. God has given me the revelation that this emotional moment is working out for my good. Sure, I now have a work out plan and it has been going quite well. More importantly, I am working out being more rooted in my praise for Christ, the purpose He has for me, my faith in Him, and know no matter the situation or the pounds, He loves me and wants to use me for His glory.

Now, for some of you, your insecurity may not be a weight issue, but whatever it is I encourage you to allow your praise, your purpose, your faith, and God’s love to help you overcome it.

God Knows

2008-09-11T16:34:00.000-07:00

During this season of stretching, not only is my faith growing but so is my patience. I am learning to be still when everything in me wants to run forward while God has His perfect work. The roads I travel now are quite unfamiliar and uncomfortable at times, but what I know about God is that He knows just when I need a dose of encouragement to help me stay the course.

It came in the form of:

A Bloggy Award
Blogging, like any other form of my ministry, is quite personal. It is an outpouring from the revelations, growth, and trials of my life. So when I read comments of others who have been blessed by my writings, I am encouraged. Then to come to Valerie’s blog at Simply4God and learn that I had been blessed by another award for my blog, I was humbled and encouraged. God has continue to use this wonderful vessel as a tool to encourage me on this new journey. It was like God’s way of saying to me, keep going and don’t be weary.

To continue to pass on the blessings, I would like to share this award with

A Friendship Card
Then a nice surprise was a friendship card in the mail from one of my oldest friends. Basically, it said thank you for being a good friend and just being me. Wow! There are moments when I wonder if the little things I do make a difference. Sometimes I get hurt, even frustrated, but receiving that card in the mail today was like God’s way of saying to me, keep loving, it matters.

The Prayer
There are moments in parenting that really get to the depths of my heart. Tonight was one of those moments. During our family prayer time, my eldest son began his turn. He prayed in such a heart felt manner for those who are lost that it touched my spirit. Right then, he poured his heart out to God not to please any one but Christ. My baby was growing up not just in the physical but in the spiritual as well. Again, it was God’s way of saying to me, keep sowing regardless of how things may seem.

Ah, yes, I am so thankful to serve a God who knows when to help me along the journey.