Refuge for a Single Mom

We've Moved!

2007-10-10T11:18:00.000-05:00

‘Refuge for a Single Mom’ has moved.

Please feel free to visit us at our new location!

We look forward to seeing you there.

God Bless!

We’re Moving!

2007-07-07T00:01:00.000-05:00

‘Refuge for a Single Mom’ is undergoing some exciting changes and upgrades.

One of which is a move to our own server and a fabulous new makeover.  -Courtesy of Girly Blog Designz  *happy dance*

To celebrate our six month anniversary in the blogging world, and all of the fantastic changes we are undergoing, we will be having an Anniversary celebration July 15th – July 21st.  –Come on over and hang out with us, join in the festivities and enter to win great prizes!  (Don’t forget to check out the new website and message boards as well.)

Invite your visitors in on the celebration by displaying our Anniversary button on your blog!

We’d love to have you join us!  Please use the "Mr. Linky", found at our new blog to leave your link and comment, and for the opportunity to receive the first ever available 'Refuge' Gear!

Happy Anniversary ‘Refuge for a Single Mom’!

Hope to see you at the new blog!

Who Are You?

2007-07-06T00:01:00.000-05:00

Not so long ago, I made one of my ‘famous’ observations …

Be happy with who you are in Christ.  (Not to be confused with limiting yourself, minimizing your possibilities or, adversely, becoming an ego maniac!)

And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you.  Philippians 1:6

A very dear friend, and the author of Small Business Moms’ Blog turned me onto the following list.  Spend some time with it this weekend and realize just how precious you are!  (((hugs)))

Who You Are in Christ

"Understanding your identity in Christ is absolutely essential to your success at living the victorious Christian life."

I am accepted...

I am God's child ~ John 1:12

As a disciple, I am a friend of Jesus Christ ~ John 15:15

I have been justified ~ Romans 5:1

I am united with the Lord, and I am one with Him in spirit ~ 1 Corinthians 6:17

I have been bought with a price, and I belong to God ~ 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

I am a member of Christ's body ~ 1 Corinthians 12:27

I have been chosen by God and adopted as His child ~ Ephesians 1:3-8

I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins ~ Colossians 1:13-14

I am complete in Christ ~ Colossians 2:9-10

I have direct access to the throne of grace through Jesus Christ ~ Hebrews 4:14-16

I am secure...

I am free from condemnation ~ Romans 8:1-2

I am assured that God works for my good in all circumstances ~ Romans 8:28

I am free from any condemnation brought against me, and I cannot be separated from the love of God ~ Romans 8:31-39

I have been established, anointed, and sealed by God ~ 2 Corinthians 1:21-22

I am hidden with Christ in God ~ Colossians 3:1-4

I am confident that God will complete the good work He started in me ~ Philippians 1:6

I am a citizen of Heaven ~ Philippians 3:20

I have not been given the spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind ~ 2 Timothy 1:7

I am born of God, and the evil one cannot touch me ~ 1 John 5:18

I am significant...

I am the branch of Jesus Christ, the true vine, and a channel of His life ~ John 15:5

I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit ~ John 15:16

I am God's temple ~ 1 Corinthians 3:16

I am a minister of reconciliation for God ~ 2 Corinthians5:17-21

I am seated with Jesus Christ in the heavenly realm ~ Ephesians 2:6

I am God's workmanship ~ Ephesians 2:10

I may approach God with freedom and confidence ~ Ephesians 3:12

I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me ~ Philippians 4:13

THE MORE YOU REAFFIRM WHO YOU ARE IN CHRIST, the more your behavior will begin to reflect your true identity!

Info on this page from the book: Victory Over the Darkness:

Realizing the Power of Your Identity in Christ

by Neil T. Anderson

The powers of darkness attack us daily. But, as Dr. Neil Anderson shows in Victory over the Darkness, you can have the power to conquer them by knowing who you are in Christ. In this book, you'll learn how to realize the power of your identity in Christ, free yourself from the burdens of your past, stand against the spiritual forces of this world, win the battle for your mind, and become the spiritual person you want to be.

Through

2007-07-05T00:01:00.000-05:00

Daniel’s Friends Protected [Daniel 3:19-30]

19 Then Nebuchadnezzar was filled with wrath, and his facial expression was altered toward Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego. He answered by giving orders to heat the furnace seven times more than it was usually heated.

20 He commanded certain valiant warriors who were in his army to tie up Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego in order to cast them into the furnace of blazing fire.
21 Then these men were tied up in their trousers, their coats, their caps and their other clothes, and were cast into the midst of the furnace of blazing fire.

22 For this reason, because the king’s command was urgent and the furnace had been made extremely hot, the flame of the fire slew those men who carried up Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego.

23 But these three men, Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego, fell into the midst of the furnace of blazing fire still tied up.

24 Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astounded and stood up in haste; he said to his high officials, “Was it not three men we cast bound into the midst of the fire?” They replied to the king, “Certainly, O king.”

25 He said, “Look! I see four men loosed and walking about in the midst of the fire without harm, and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods!”

26 Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the door of the furnace of blazing fire; he responded and said, “Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego, come out, you servants of the Most High God, and come here!” Then Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego came out of the midst of the fire.

27 The satraps, the prefects, the governors and the king’s high officials gathered around and saw in regard to these men that the fire had no effect on the bodies of these men nor was the hair of their head singed, nor were their trousers damaged, nor had the smell of fire even come upon them.

28 Nebuchadnezzar responded and said, “Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego, who has sent His angel and delivered His servants who put their trust in Him, violating the king’s command, and yielded up their bodies so as not to serve or worship any god except their own God.

29 “Therefore I make a decree that any people, nation or tongue that speaks anything offensive against the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego shall be torn limb from limb and their houses reduced to a rubbish heap, inasmuch as there is no other god who is able to deliver in this way.”

30 Then the king caused Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego to prosper in the province of Babylon.

Often, (very often, in fact) I fall back on God’s promise to get us ‘through’ adversity … That really sparked my interest of the word ‘through’ and I started thinking about how very deep it really is!

We must go ‘through’ hardship, ‘through’ difficulty, ‘through’ danger, ‘through’ trials, not over, around or under, but THROUGH!

From there, I got to thinking about how we could overcome adversity ‘through’ Him and pass ‘through’ it OR we could let the adversity go ‘through’ us and potentially destroy us! Provocative? Yeah, I thought so too! *wink*

Through

in at one end, side, or surface and out at the other

past; beyond

during the whole period of; throughout

from the beginning to the end

to a favorable or successful conclusion

The bible often talks about how we can get ‘through’ trials and tribulations by going ‘through’ the Lord.

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.  Philippians 4:13

By faith they passed through the Red Sea as though they were passing through dry land; and the Egyptians, when they attempted it, were drowned.  Hebrews 11:29

For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.  Romans 11:36

Through God we shall do valiantly, And it is He who will tread down our adversaries.  Psalm 60:12

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, Nor will the flame burn you.  Isaiah 43:2

He led you through the great and terrible wilderness, with its fiery serpents and scorpions and thirsty ground where there was no water; He brought water for you out of the rock of flint.  Deuteronomy 8:15

Serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and with trials which came upon me through the plots of the Jews.  Acts 20:19

Simply put, when we share a deep and profound relationship with God, we are better able to trust in Him.  We can filter our problems, grievances, sadness, confusion, etc. ‘through’ Him and come ‘through’ our circumstances with something much more manageable.

Every bad thing in your life can produce something good if you’ve learned and grown from it.  Just as gold must pass ‘through’ the fiery kiln to become beautiful, we must pass ‘through’ the trials and tribulations of this world to fulfill the amazing plans that God has for us!

But He knows the way I take; When He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold.  Job 23:10

So that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.  I Peter 1:7

“And I will bring the third part through the fire, Refine them as silver is refined, And test them as gold is tested. They will call on My name, And I will answer them; I will say, ‘They are My people,’ And they will say, ‘The LORD is my God.’”  Zechariah 13:9

Domestic Violence

2007-07-03T00:01:00.000-05:00

Very soon, ‘Refuge for a Single Mom’ will be jumping head-first into bigger and better things! *smile* This includes efforts to assist victims of domestic violence.

As with anything, education is power! Therefore, I would like to acquaint you all with a Lifetime TV film, airing on Wednesday, July 4th.

Lifetime TV, July 4th

On July 4th at 9pm ET/PT, Lifetime will air "Devil's Pond," a film starring Tara Reid and Meredith Baxter. The film deals with the issue of domestic violence as Julianne, played by Tara Reid, realizes just how little she knows about the man she married as his possessive streak begins to threaten her life.

For a complete synopsis of this movie, check it out at Lifetime TV.com

Find out more about domestic violence at the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence

For your convenience, I’ve reproduced the warning signs of domestic abuse/violence here. I must admit, this was a real eye opener for me! Courtesy of Help Guide.org

If you want or need to talk to someone, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at: 1-800-799-7233 (1-800-799-SAFE) If you need help immediately, call 911.

Signs of an Abusive Relationship

Your Inner Feelings and Thoughts

Do you :

fear your partner a large percentage of the time?

avoid certain topics out of fear of angering your partner?

feel that you can’t do anything right for your partner?

ever think you deserve to be physically hurt or mistreated?

sometimes wonder if you are the one who is crazy?

feel afraid that your partner may try to hurt or kill you?

feel afraid that your partner will try to take your children away?

feel emotionally numb or helpless?

think that domestic violence seem normal to you?

Your Partner’s Violent or Threatening Behavior

Has your partner ever:

had a bad and unpredictable temper?

hurt you, or threatened to hurt or kill you?

threatened to take your children away, especially if you try to leave?

threatened to commit suicide, especially as a way of keeping you from leaving?

forced you to have sex when you didn’t want to?

destroyed your belongings or household objects?

Your Partner’s Controlling Behavior

Does your partner:

try to keep you from seeing your friends or family?

make you embarrassed to invite friends or family over to your house?

limit your access to money, the telephone, or the car?

act excessively jealous and possessive?

try to stop you from going where you want to go or doing what you want to do?

check up on you, including where you've been or who you've been with?

Your Partner’s Belittlement of You

Does your partner:

verbally abuse you?

humiliate or criticize you in front of others?

often ignore you or put down your opinions or contributions?

blame you for their own violent behavior?

objectify and disrespect those of your gender?

see you as property or a sex object, rather than as a person?

Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered. I Peter 3:7

Count Your Blessings One by One

2007-07-02T00:01:00.000-05:00

Ten Lepers Cleansed [Luke 17:11-19]

11 While He was on the way to Jerusalem, He was passing between Samaria and Galilee.

12 As He entered a village, ten leprous men who stood at a distance met Him;

13 and they raised their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!”

14 When He saw them, He said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they were going, they were cleansed.

15 Now one of them, when he saw that he had been healed, turned back, glorifying God with a loud voice,

16 and he fell on his face at His feet, giving thanks to Him. And he was a Samaritan.

17 Then Jesus answered and said, “Were there not ten cleansed? But the nine—where are they?

18 “Was no one found who returned to give glory to God, except this foreigner?”

19 And He said to him, “Stand up and go; your faith has made you well.”

A few days ago, I made some observations, one of which was this:

”Be thankful for each and every single blessing in your life and recognize that without God, you wouldn’t have squat!”

First of all, I must confess that I used to be a very impatient, controlling, over-analytical, pessimistic, stressed out, worried, MISERABLE person.  If I couldn’t explain it, I couldn’t enjoy it!

At some point in your life, you need to realize that you are NOT in control, not by any means!  No matter how much you plan, prepare, arrange, stress, fret or worry, you are here on this Earth to simply fulfill a plan that GOD has designed for your life!

You need to realize that God is in absolute control.  Any idea, inspiration or motivation in your heart, mind, body and spirit are from Him.  (Obviously, there are sinful, fleshly influences of the world, but in order to make my point, I will concentrate on the ‘good things’!)

With this in mind, it is vitally important that you realize that any blessings, any favor, in your life are only yours by His grace!  (You really didn’t have much to do with it at all!)  That beautiful, healthy baby you love every day, the roof over your head, the food on your table, the car you drive, your profitable business or well-paying job, good friends, loving family, health, safety – ALL GOD!  (Clearly, those who work harder, smarter and longer, will have more to show for it, but still, only in conjunction with God’s grace and favor in your life!)

Now, once you’ve realized that your blessings are from Him, THANK HIM!  Stop taking the good Lord for granted and give Him praise, glory and most importantly, be thankful – every minute of every day!

Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving.  Colossians 4:2

16 Rejoice always; 17 pray without ceasing; 18 in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.  I Thessalonians 5:16-18

So many people out there don’t understand their blessings.  They ‘deserve’ good things, they’re ‘owed’ the best … When they do receive God’s goodness, they fail to acknowledge His awesomeness.  Instead of giving praises and glory, they simply move on to their next ‘request’!

We aren’t naïve, silly, little teenagers, whose parents are obligated to pave the way!  We are Christians cleansed by and covered in the Blood of the Lamb!  It is ALL because of Him!  His love, His goodness, His favor, His mercy, His power – His grace!

Honestly, this drives me crazy!  (Even my own behavior at times!)  There is so much suffering, stress, worry and sadness in this world!  Isn’t it completely obvious that the goodness we receive can only come from our Father?

There is a saying “If it sounds/seems too good to be true, it probably is.” (Unfortunately, the information available on the internet, regarding this quote, is limited and I cannot tell you the exact quote or who said it!  LOL)

Why?  Why can’t we receive blessings beyond belief and comprehension?  Personally, I believe in a God that surpasses all understanding!  Therefore, I say, “If it sounds too good to be true, thank your God!”

8 Random Things

2007-06-30T00:01:00.000-05:00

I don’t do a lot of memes, but this one sounded like fun and I was just so darned thrilled that Melly tagged me, I couldn’t resist it! *wink*

The rules are simple:

1. You need to know the rules before the game begins.

2. Each player starts with 8 random facts/habits about themselves.

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

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

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

Okay, so here are 8 random things that I don’t think I’ve told you girls before:

Naturally, I am a brunette, but in the summertime, I love to highlight or lighten my hair completely.

Although I don’t feel like it now, I was always the skinny, awkward kid that got picked on for being ‘skinny and awkward’.

I have lost my toenail on my right, big toe twice now.

My left ear is pierced 5 times, and my right ear is only pierced once. (What can I say? It was the thing to do!)

Although it is bad for you, I love to tan. (I’ve tried ‘sunless’ tanners and they ALL rub off, wash off, sweat off, etc. – they DON’T work!)

My favorite flower is the ‘peace’ rose. It is the peachy/pink rose with the yellow tips. (Really, almost any rose is my favorite - especially since I can’t grow them myself!)

My favorite color is green. Just about any shade or hue! (Could it be because green is the color of money? Maybe because green symbolizes life and new growth?)

I am a clotheshorse! Even though I am currently in a size that I am NOT happy with and attempting to lose weight, I still love, love, love pretty clothes!

Off hand, I don’t know of 8 people to tag, so I will leave it open to all of my readers. If you’re reading this and you haven’t done this particular meme, please feel free to do so.

Don’t forget to leave a comment here so that we can all stop by and read ‘8 Random Things’ about you! Have fun! (((hugs)))

Struggling + Suffering = Strength

2007-06-27T00:01:00.000-05:00

Psalm 5:11-12

11 But let all who take refuge in You be glad, Let them ever sing for joy; And may You shelter them, That those who love Your name may exult in You.

12 For it is You who blesses the righteous man, O LORD, You surround him with favor as with a shield.

As I’ve mentioned, once or twice, my girl Becki and I have been talking about some deep issues lately.  Among them is struggling and suffering.  (We have some really good conversations and I don’t know about her, but I always learn a lot and walk away thinking!)  *wink*

I have a lot of friends that are constantly struggling, constantly suffering through one ordeal or another and they just can’t seem to see the light.  (This isn’t to say that my family and I don’t endure our share of burdens, but it seems like we get a break now and again.)  Then, on the other hand, I have friends who never seem to struggle, life is good, family is good, finances are good, work is good, etc.  One might ask why this happens.  Why do honest-to-goodness, God fearing Christians seem to struggle every day while others appear to be skating down easy street?

Honestly, I have no idea why one person seems to deal with more than the other.  But I truly do not believe that God wishes for us to constantly struggle and suffer – even here on Earth.  He wishes for his children to be happy and blessed with His favor so that we can effectively sing His praises and minister to others.  Who is going to want what we have if we are miserable all the time?

In contrast, He did NOT promise us a ‘peaches & cream’ existence on this is Earth!  He did NOT promise that life would be easy - it is ruled by the enemy and will obviously be full of trials and heartache.  But He DID promise to bring us through whatever we face if we choose to believe in Him and fully rely on Him!

Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.  I Peter 4:19

If we endure, we will also reign with Him; If we deny Him, He also will deny us. II Timothy 2:12

So, perhaps, my conclusion is this…  We cannot possibly change the world we live in or reduce the number of times or ways the enemy attacks us.  We CAN live by God’s word, trust in it and choose to be beautiful, happy Christians full of light to share with others!  The key to this new way of thinking is to fully rely on God and His promises and to immerse ourselves in His word!

This whole concept is something that rests very heavy on my heart and soul.  It is something that I have been personally developing for about 5 years now.  I was one of those people that always claimed, “If it weren’t for bad luck…I’d have not luck at all!”  (Gloom, despair, and agony on me!)  Sorry - “Hee Haw” flashback there!  *wink*

Seriously, one of the greatest lessons I’ve learned, was to change my thinking, change my perspective and quit relying on ‘luck’, but rather, to rely on God, His word and His wonderful promises!

Basically, here are some of the conclusions I’ve come to:

Be happy with who you are in Christ. (Not to be confused with limiting yourself, minimizing your possibilities or, adversely, becoming an ego maniac!)

And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you. Philippians 1:6

Be content where you are right now. (Not to be confused with settling for less than God’s best, underachieving or becoming stagnant.)

[And it is, indeed, a source of immense profit, for] godliness accompanied with contentment (that contentment which is a sense of inward sufficiency) is great and abundant gain. I Timothy 6:6

Be thankful for each and every single blessing in your life and recognize that without God, you wouldn’t have squat!

Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Colossians 3:16

Don’t confuse God’s promises and blessings with fleshly and material desires. (Rather know, that although God wishes for His people to be a glorious example of His love and favor, and that He will provide for all of your needs, your TRUE reward lies in the Kingdom of Heaven.)

2 That their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love, and attaining to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God’s mystery, that is, Christ Himself,
3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Colossians 2:2-3

Be strong.  (When you feel you can’t be strong, rely on God and God only.  He IS your strength!)

You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.  II Timothy 2:1

Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for and hope for and expect the Lord!  Psalm 31:24

Give freely from your heart. (Something as simple as a smile, or “Have a good day!” can truly make a difference in someone’s life! Let someone by in the grocery store line, assist the eldery, babysit for that young couple that never gets out, volunteer at church, visit that lonely widow down the street, the list is endless and the rewards are many!)

10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor;
11 not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord. Romans 12:10-11

Follow your conviction. (Have a mind, heart, body, personality and spirit in Christ. Do allow yourself to become a wishy-washy Christian.)

So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth. Revelation 3:16

Don’t confuse suffering for your God as martyrdom. (Remember that Jesus Christ paid the ultimate price so that we would never have to pay a sacrifice again! You are covered by the blood of the lamb.)

10 By this will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
11 Every priest stands daily ministering and offering time after time the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins;
12 but He, having offered one sacrifice for sins for all time, SAT DOWN AT THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD,
13 waiting from that time onward UNTIL HIS ENEMIES BE MADE A FOOTSTOOL FOR HIS FEET.
14 For by one offering He has perfected for all time those who are sanctified. Hebrews 10:10-14

Don’t confuse committing your life to God and suffering in His name with a death sentence! (Rather know, your Father in Heaven can deliver you from ANYTHING and He promises to do so!)

Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to cast some of you into prison, so that you will be tested, and you will have tribulation for ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. Revelation 2:10

Seek the truth in God’s Word – ALWAYS! (Don’t seek human approval or acknowledgement for ANYTHING!)

Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything. II Timothy 2:7

Let Your Light Shine

2007-06-25T00:01:00.000-05:00

Last week, my girl Becki and I were discussing some things.  (And by the way, I just want to publicly say what a wonderful friend, listener and encouragement she’s been to me lately!  Thank you sweetie – you rock!)  In particular, we were talking about relationships, witnessing to others and spreading God’s Word, when finally, she simply says to me, “just let your light shine through”.  How simple – right?

1 In the same way, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any of them are disobedient to the word, they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives,

2 as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior.

3 Your adornment must not be merely external—braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses;

4 but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God.  I Peter 3:1-4

Yeah, I realize that this refers to wives in particular, and no, I’m not getting at anything…but I think it is sound advice for anyone – especially single moms thrown back out into the dating world of today.

For some of us, we’ve been Christians a long time and it all comes through very naturally, no matter what the social circumstances.

For others of us, we became dedicated Christians during a ‘down time’ (in an incubator of sorts) when we were only concerned with ourselves and our children.  We didn’t have to deal with the mindset of a boyfriend, fiancé, spouse, or any other type of significant other.

But now, all of the sudden we find that we are not only faced with the difficulties of dating in general, but we are inundated by the effects of the sinful world we live in.  Betrayal, lies, deceit, and lust are commonplace.

Love doesn’t always discern.  We may fall in love with someone that believes differently or follows a different doctrine, or worst case scenario, he may not believe at all.

Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness?  II Corinthians 6:14

What do we do?

The last thing you want to do is to give in to lust and fleshly desires - even if it feels right.  You can’t let persuasion or intimidation control your decisions.  You also can’t be so afraid of being alone that you will do anything (including betray God) to “keep a man”!

I can tell you this, someone who really loves you and respects you, will be considerate of your morals, ideals, principles, opinions, habits, idiosyncrasies, AND your beliefs and faith!  When they choose to be a part of your life, they must realize that your children, your home, your work, your family, your friends and most importantly, your God were there first!

This may sound a little brutal, but my honest opinion is this - - God first!  Everything else that we are blessed with in this life is simply the ‘cherry on top’ (so to speak).  You wouldn’t have your children, home, job, family, friends or any man if weren’t for the grace of God.  Your eternal life depends on your comprehension of that!

There will always be someone in your life, children, family members, friends, neighbors, co-workers, etc., that relies on your ‘light’ for direction.  As single Moms, hopefully we will all find someone very special to spend the rest of our lives with, but in the meantime, we will come in contact with many people, struggling people, and they won’t always be Christians, they may not even be believers!  We should recognize this as one more way to spread the good news of God’s promises!

I Peter 3:4 says: but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God.  In other words, “let your light shine through” – in every situation!!!

My Best Friend

2007-06-23T00:01:00.000-05:00

There are some times, some instances when I end up feeling so very alone.  It’s the craziest thing too.  I have my mom and kids, I’ve got some rockin’ girlfriends and I even have a boyfriend these days.  But the fact remains, that sometimes, I still feel very alone, very misunderstood and very sad.

Things happen in our lives and we find it very hard to discuss them with anyone.  Sometimes, even if we can talk with people we are close to, they just don’t seem to understand or care.  Most of the time, we can’t tell everyone, everything.

Right now, I’m going through something very confusing, very frustrating and very painful.

Thank goodness, that no matter what impressions people have, what conclusions they draw or what their intentions are, we always have one true friend in God.  He never leaves us nor forsakes us.  He alone, knows the desires of our hearts and the dreams of our minds.

In Hebrews 13:5, the Lord says, "I WILL NEVER DESERT YOU, NOR WILL I EVER FORSAKE YOU,"

A man of too many friends comes to ruin, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.  Proverbs 18:24

When we are facing something difficult, the turning points in life or relationships, He alone can guide us.  We must pray to Him with our whole heart for His will to be done and then completely trust in Him - even if we don’t necessarily understand.

“And the LORD will continually guide you, And satisfy your desire in scorched places, And give strength to your bones; And you will be like a watered garden, And like a spring of water whose waters do not fail.  Isaiah 58:11

For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.  Jeremiah 29:11

As human beings, I think we all too often seek the approval of other humans.  We want people to like us, love us and understand us.  But that isn’t always the case.  People don’t always have the ability to forgive or forget the past and sometimes that can ruin something good.

I encourage you gals to always remember who your one TRUE best friend is.  Always go to Him.  Share your excitement, discouragement, frustration, concerns, fears – everything.  Whatever it is He will always listen, always care and best of all, He can always bring good from any situation if we let Him.

Pursue Wisdom

2007-06-18T00:01:00.000-05:00

It is SO important that we don’t become complacent with our religion, but rather, to continually seek the knowledge that God has provided for us in His Word.

The Word provides answers to questions and challenges.  You are sure to find guidance and inspiration in every area of life.

When you truly read and study the Word of God, with an open heart and mind, you will better understand God, His promises, His expectations, and you will know His will for yourself.

The contentment, joy, peace and comfort you will find is unmatchable.  You will truly know what God expects from you on a daily basis.

The Pursuit of Wisdom Brings Security  (Proverbs 2:1-22)

1 My son, if you will receive my words, And treasure my commandments within you,

2 Make your ear attentive to wisdom, Incline your heart to understanding;

3 For if you cry for discernment, Lift your voice for understanding;

4 If you seek her as silver, And search for her as for hidden treasures;

5 Then you will discern the fear of the LORD, And discover the knowledge of God.

6 For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.

7 He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk in integrity,

8 Guarding the paths of justice, And He preserves the way of His godly ones.

9 Then you will discern righteousness and justice, And equity and every good course.

10 For wisdom will enter your heart, And knowledge will be pleasant to your soul;

11 Discretion will guard you, Understanding will watch over you,

12 To deliver you from the way of evil, From the man who speaks perverse things;

13 From those who leave the paths of uprightness, To walk in the ways of darkness;

14 Who delight in doing evil, And rejoice in the perversity of evil;

15 Whose paths are crooked, And who are devious in their ways;

16 To deliver you from the strange woman, From the adulteress who flatters with her words;

17 That leaves the companion of her youth, And forgets the covenant of her God;

18 For her house sinks down to death, And her tracks lead to the dead;

19 None who go to her return again, Nor do they reach the paths of life.

20 So you will walk in the way of good men, And keep to the paths of the righteous.

21 For the upright will live in the land, And the blameless will remain in it;

22 But the wicked will be cut off from the land, And the treacherous will be uprooted from it.

The Armor of God: Salvation & the Spirit

2007-06-15T00:01:00.000-05:00

The Armor of God (Ephesians 6:17)

17 And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Helmet:

any of various forms of protective head covering worn by soldiers, firefighters, divers, cyclists, etc.

medieval armor for the head

Helmets are so important in a lot of activities. Bicycling, skateboarding, roller skating/blading, climbing, motorcycling…actually, if you think about it, a lot of those activities ‘get’ you somewhere. Kind of coincidental?

You wear a helmet when you are ‘moving’, ‘going somewhere’ – wouldn’t it make sense to wear the ‘HELMET OF SALVATION’ when you are moving along in life – ‘going somewhere’? The enemy is going to attempt to stop this and throw out roadblocks and obstacles. (Did you ever watch that movie “Big Daddy” with Adam Sandler, where he throws sticks into the trail to make the roller bladders crash?)

We know that there will be trials and tribulations, we know that there will be debris in our path and obstacles to overcome - we want to protect our head/brain and not become injured!

Sword:

a weapon having various forms but consisting typically of a long, straight or slightly curved blade, sharp-edged on one or both sides, with one end pointed and the other fixed in a hilt or handle

this weapon as the symbol of military power, punitive justice, authority, etc.

a cause of death or destruction

war, combat, slaughter, or violence, esp. military force or aggression

”The sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God” – that actually gives me cold chills!  The sword, the ‘weapon’ or ‘protection’ IS the Word of God!  No words could be more honest, true and powerful!

When you protect yourself with the Word, with the knowledge and the power, nothing can really harm you!  Sure, there will be attempts, but when you truly know the power and promises of our God, no weapon formed against you will prosper!

No weapon that is formed against you will prosper; And every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, And their vindication is from Me,” declares the LORD.  Isaiah 54:17

II Corinthians 6:1-18

1 And working together with Him, we also urge you not to receive the grace of God in vain.

2 for He says, “AT THE ACCEPTABLE TIME I LISTENED TO YOU, AND ON THE DAY OF SALVATION I HELPED YOU.” Behold, now is “THE ACCEPTABLE TIME,” behold, now is “THE DAY OF SALVATION”

3 giving no cause for offense in anything, so that the ministry will not be discredited,

4 but in everything commending ourselves as servants of God, in much endurance, in afflictions, in hardships, in distresses,

5 in beatings, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in sleeplessness, in hunger,

6 in purity, in knowledge, in patience, in kindness, in the Holy Spirit, in genuine love,

7 in the word of truth, in the power of God; by the weapons of righteousness for the right hand and the left,

8 by glory and dishonor, by evil report and good report; regarded as deceivers and yet true;

9 as unknown yet well-known, as dying yet behold, we live; as punished yet not put to death,

10 as sorrowful yet always rejoicing, as poor yet making many rich, as having nothing yet possessing all things.

11 Our mouth has spoken freely to you, O Corinthians, our heart is opened wide.

12 You are not restrained by us, but you are restrained in your own affections.

13 Now in a like exchange—I speak as to children—open wide to us also.

14 Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness?

15 Or what harmony has Christ with Belial, or what has a believer in common with an unbeliever?

16 Or what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; just as God said, “I WILL DWELL IN THEM AND WALK AMONG THEM; AND I WILL BE THEIR GOD, AND THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE.

17 “Therefore, COME OUT FROM THEIR MIDST AND BE SEPARATE,” says the Lord. “AND DO NOT TOUCH WHAT IS UNCLEAN; And I will welcome you.

18 “And I will be a father to you, And you shall be sons and daughters to Me,” Says the Lord Almighty.

The Armor of God: The Shield of Faith

2007-06-14T00:01:00.000-05:00

The Armor of God (Ephesians 6:16)

16 in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.

Shield:

a broad piece of armor, varying widely in form and size, carried apart from the body, usually on the left arm, as a defense against swords, lances, arrows, etc.

something shaped like a shield, variously round, octagonal, triangular, or somewhat heart-shaped.

a person or thing that protects.

Faith:

confidence or trust in a person or thing.

belief in God or in the doctrines or teachings of religion.

a system of religious belief.

the trust in God and in His promises as made through Christ and the Scriptures by which humans are justified or saved.

In other words if we carry our shield of faith, believing in God and His promises, we are well able to extinguish the “flaming arrows of the evil one”!

What a promise!

2 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials,

3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.

4 And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.  James 1:3

God doesn’t tell us that the “arrows” or trials won’t come, but He promises to equip us with the armor that will protect us from them.  We have to believe in Him, His word and His promises!

Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called, and you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.  I Timothy 6:12

He also promises that if we persevere and endure the trials, holding tight to the Word of God, wielding our shield of faith, He will bring us through it “perfect and complete”, “lacking in NOTHING”!  Praise God!

1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,

2 through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God.

3 And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance;

4 and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope;

5 and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.  Romans 5:1-5

The Armor of God: The Gospel of Peace

2007-06-13T00:01:00.000-05:00

The Armor of God (Ephesians 6:15)

15 and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE

Shod:

an external covering for the human foot, usually of leather and consisting of a more or less stiff or heavy sole and a lighter upper part ending a short distance above, at, or below the ankle

an object or part resembling a shoe in form, position, or use

Peace:

cessation of or freedom from any strife or dissension

freedom of the mind from annoyance, distraction, anxiety, an obsession, etc.; tranquility; serenity

a state of tranquility or serenity

Freedom from strife or dissension…freedom of the mind…tranquility…serenity…

That is music to Momma’s ears!  This peace thing sounds like an awesome thing.  Where on Earth can we get some of that?

Unfortunately, the answer to that one is nowhere!

True peace, deep down, honest-to-goodness PEACE is something only available through the blood of Jesus Christ!

Only when we truly give our spirit, mind, heart and body up to God can we experience this indescribable peace, joy and love that God has promised to us.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness.  Galatians 5:22

The fruit of the spirit IS love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness and faithfulness.  When you truly (and I can’t express this enough), TRULY repent of your sins, with complete and sincere submission, you will know the fruit of the spirit.  There will be no doubt in your mind that you are destined for heaven and that you have a precious relationship with your Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  You will find yourself at prayer all the time.  You will have a true relationship with Him like no other that you can imagine!  You will feel His love deep down inside.

I tried living, getting by, whatever you want to call it, many, many ways.  I shrugged God off for the better part of my life.  A few years ago, when I found out that I was pregnant with my 2nd son, I knew that it was time.  No more wandering or floundering around taking everything He’d given me for granted.  IT WAS TIME!

I have never regretted one single moment.  Sure, I don’t drink myself to oblivion anymore, gamble away my pay check or spend my time with people that only took what they needed from me - it is a worthy sacrifice!

I DO spend my time with my family, I drink Pepsi, Iced Tea and occasionally force myself to drink water (it’s healthy you know), I DO pay my bills, I DO take pride in myself and feel fantastic about who I am and what the Lord is doing in and with my life!  So many changes have taken place and my life has become so full of excitement, satisfaction, accomplishment, love, joy and PEACE!!!  I have been heard saying “Holy Cow!!!!!” quite often lately!  These are things that can only be explained by the divine and supernatural favor and blessings of my Father!

Sisters, I won’t sit here and claim that it is all peaches and cream 24/7!  I’d be lying through my teeth!  There are tests and trials!  BUT…listen closely…you are not alone anymore!  You have your Heavenly Father right there beside you.  Closer than any friend!  He is with you always, everywhere, every time!  He promises to get you through each and every struggle!  He promises PEACE!

And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4:7

The Armor of God: Truth & Righteousness

2007-06-12T00:01:00.000-05:00

The Armor of God (Ephesians 6:14)

14 Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS

The first ‘pieces’ of “The Armor of God” consist of ‘having girded your loins with truth’ and ‘the breastplate of righteousness’ …

Gird:

to encircle or bind with a belt or band

to surround; enclose; hem in

to prepare (oneself) for action

to provide, equip, or invest, as with power or strength

Loins:

the parts of the body between the hips and the lower ribs, esp. regarded as the seat of physical strength and generative power

gird or gird up one's loins, to prepare oneself for something requiring readiness, strength, or endurance

Wow, the loins are regarded as the seat of physical strength!  Wouldn’t it make sense to protect this area with TRUTH?

Well, there is so much junk in the world, how on Earth can we sort through it all and find the truth?

The Word!

25 “For this reason I say to you, do not be worried about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?

26 “Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they?

27 “And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life?

28 “And why are you worried about clothing? Observe how the lilies of the field grow; they do not toil nor do they spin,

29 Yet I say to you that not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these.

30 “But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you? You of little faith!

31 “Do not worry then, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear for clothing?’

32 “For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.

33 “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

34 “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.  Matthew 6:25-34

Everything you will ever need to know, every answer you’ve ever sought, is found in the Word of God.

He knew what this world would come to.  He knew how confused and tempted His children would become.  That is why He left us the Bible as a handbook for life!

4 Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant,

5 Does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered,

6 Does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth;

7 Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.  I Corinthians 13:4-7

Love DOES NOT rejoice in unrighteousness, but with the TRUTH.

The unconditional love of God caused Him to allow His only son to die for our sins, to pay the ultimate sacrifice so that we wouldn’t have to.

All He asks in return is for repentance of sins, for our love and that we follow Him with all of our heart, mind, body and soul.

When you gird your loins with truth and protect your chest with the breastplate of righteousness, you are well equipped and well able!

9 That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved;

10 for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.

11 For the Scripture says, “WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED  Romans 10:9-11

The Armor of God

2007-06-11T00:01:00.000-05:00

Sometimes, the weight of the world can be very overwhelming.  There seem to be constant struggles and obstacles.  There’s always something to worry about.

Thing is, as we learn to fully rely on the strength and protection of the Lord, as we learn to trust His plan, His timing, His wisdom and His love, we will be better equipped to live happier, healthier, more joyful and peaceful lives.

I have been learning this lesson for a very long time.  I am one of the most impatient, paranoid, speculative people you will meet.  In fact, I remember my mom coming home from 6th grade parent conference.  The teacher told her that although Christina was an excellent student, she worried more than any other 6th grader he had ever met.

Over the years, my heavenly Father has been teaching me to be a bit different.  Although I am still struggling with these things, I’ve learned to catch myself.  When I feel the anxiety hit, I just stop and pray.  I give it up to God and quit with the worry.  I know, deep in my soul, beyond a shadow of a doubt that He will take care of whatever it is.  I know that He cares more about my family and me than I can even grasp.  He will bring to pass the best scenario possible!

When we look to the Word for guidance, we see that there is something called “The Armor of God”.  Obviously, this is spiritual armor, but as you can see, our Almighty Father has all the bases covered.

As time and circumstances allow this week, I’d like to explore each part of the armor.  I think it is so important to fully understand the protection that God has to offer – if we’ll only let Him!

The Armor of God  (Ephesians 6:10-24)

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.

11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.

12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.

13 Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.

14 Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS,

15 and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE;

16 in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.

17 And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

18 With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints,

19 and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel,

20 for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

21 But that you also may know about my circumstances, how I am doing, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make everything known to you.

22 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, so that you may know about us, and that he may comfort your hearts.

23 Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

24 Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible love.

I’m Famous!

2007-06-08T00:01:00.000-05:00

A huge THANK YOU to Susan over at 5 minutes for mom for giving me “5 Minutes” of fame!!!

Be sure to check out a new site that Susan and her sister Janice have put together: Caboose Trailer Bike

Me, Myself and God

2007-06-04T00:01:00.000-05:00

But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment.  I Timothy 6:6

As a new Christian, I’ve learned a lot of very important lessons.  One of them has been to be happy with myself, to be content with who I am and where I am and to enjoy spending time with “me”!

I know so many people that can’t stand to be alone - they aren’t alone without being lonely.  They constantly crave the company and attention of other people or being in public places.

Not me!  No way!  When I finally get a few moments to myself, I immerse myself in the tranquility and serenity of being ALONE!  This is something that God has taught me and it has been an invaluable lesson to learn.

I can remember when my husband and I first separated. My son would go on visitation with him and it drove me crazy to sit here alone.  I was needy and dependant on other people for everything.  I had to get on the phone, get out with friends – anything!  The only thing that mattered was that I was NOT alone!

So many people are like this.  I see guys and gals who would spend their time on people and relationships that are obviously going nowhere or are even lethal.  They impose themselves on others and all around are just lost and lonely.  I want so badly to tell them to find God and find themselves!  It’s the best thing you can do for yourself.  I have so much newfound contentment in who I am in Christ.  I truly enjoy spending time in the Word and cultivating the new me.  It has been the most significant makeover I will ever experience!

As single moms, I think it weighs heavy on us as to whether or not we will find someone else to share our lives with.  A lot of us may even obsess over it.  –I used to.

21 Many plans are in a man’s heart, But the counsel of the LORD will stand.
23 The fear of the LORD leads to life, So that one may sleep satisfied, untouched by evil.   Proverbs 19:21 & 23

Once I found my way back to the Lord and spent my time and efforts on growing closer to Him and learning more about who He wanted me to be, who He expected me to be, I realized that I could relax and trust Him with the details.  I enjoy myself, my life, my kids and all of the other blessings that God has so graciously bestowed upon me.  Now, I am more independent and I am better able to truly trust God with the fate of my “love life”!

10 “He opens their ear to instruction, and commands that they return from evil.
11 “If they hear and serve Him, they will end their days in prosperity and their years in pleasures.
12 “But if they do not hear, they shall perish by the sword and they will die without knowledge.  Job 36:10-12

I often joke that if it is God’s will for me to meet someone or even to remarry, that He will drop this man from the heavens right into my lap.  Gone is the day that I am in search of this person or longing for his arrival.  I now know, deep in my heart that God can handle this.  He has a perfect plan for my life and it is up to me to trust Him with it.  That may even mean that I spend the rest of my life alone.  That is okay too!  Life on this Earth is very short it is also very corrupt and distracting.  We have to focus ourselves on the bigger picture and live our lives accordingly.  Live as the Word of God instructs us to.  Live for what you have and be appreciative of your blessings.  Don’t spend your life aching, needing, searching and longing for the things and people that you don’t have!

A Balancing Act

2007-06-01T00:01:00.000-05:00

Something was mentioned in an e-mail the other day that got me thinking about balance…

So many of us are out of balance – what can we do?  Is it possible to balance ALL of our responsibilities?

I am so out of balance right now.  Not enough sleep, not enough to eat, not enough ‘me’ time, and surely not enough ‘God’ time.

I’ve got a teen that seems to think staying put is a crime, because he is on the move constantly.  I’ve got a pre-schooler that has a selective hearing disorder.  Business is just slow enough to cause financial strain while gaining just enough momentum to create havoc.  My father fell and hurt himself which requires me to help him out and run him to various doctor and orthopedic appointments.  Youth group has begun at church and requires my attention, as do some redecorating issues.  We’re still looking for a house and trying to sell another piece of property.  It’s that season when grass must be mowed and vehicles need washed and vacuumed.  Most frustrating of all, my neighbors will never learn to park, but continue to buy countless vehicles!!!  Oh the joys!  Oh, and did I mention…I just might start dating again…yup…you heard that one right!  (Could it be?  Has the cynical, bitter, ex-wife found herself a man?  We shall see!  *wink*)

There are so many issues, worries, obligations and responsibilities pulling on me right now and I know that it is a time to prune!  I must, must, must prune away the responsibilities and obligations that are fruitless (so to speak).  Someone I love and respect very much talks a lot about this.  (Feel free to visit her at Small Business Moms’ Blog “…for tips, resources and encouragement...especially for newer work at home moms that wish to run their business from a biblical perspective…”)

Anyway, I won’t get into the particulars, but the point is this, we must balance our lives.  None of the things I’ve mentioned can be allowed to overcome or overwhelm us.  When things are out of whack or out of balance, that creates frustration, exhaustion and many other ‘gaps’ for the enemy.  When we are tired or hungry, lonely, harboring hurt feelings, all of these instances create vulnerability and allow the enemy to brutally attack us.

Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit.  John 15:2

If a branch is not bearing fruit – it is taken away.  I always have a very hard time with this.  I feel like I need to be everywhere I can, doing everything I can to glorify God.  It isn’t necessarily working out that way.  I thought that even if I wasn’t gaining anything that it was my responsibility to ‘give’.  The thing is, the vine is fruitless.

These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.  John 15:11

“…so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.”  Not ‘sort of’ or ‘kind of’ or ‘somewhat’ – but FULL!

We are all just roaming around aimlessly, bogged down by all these wayward, crazy branches.  The other branches are trying to produce fruit, but desperately need pruned back so that they can grow healthier and fuller!

Limit yourselves sisters!  As Moms, we are all so used to doing everything ourselves.  We fix everything and nurture everything.  But the fact remains that we are human and can only do so much – even with God’s help.  Quit trying to be everything to everyone!  Instead, balance, prune and be FULL of His joy!

Give Up!

2007-05-23T00:01:00.000-05:00

Yep!  You heard me right!  Give up!  Quit fighting, fumbling, stressing, wrestling and worrying with all this junk that you carry around and give it up - to God!

Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life.  Luke 21:34

This is something I’m working very diligently with right now.  I have a tendency to be very persistent and stubborn.  So when trials and adversity hit, nothing is any different.  I forget to go to God; I think that I can do it on my own and Viola!  I end up frustrated, stressed and very grouchy!  (Ask my kids!)  What did I accomplish?  Absolutely nothing!

But the worries of the world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things enter in and chokes the word, and it becomes unfruitful.  Mark 4:19

There are several issues that I seem to be dealing with over and over right now.  I’ve mentioned most of them here (a few times) so I won’t beat the horse.  But usually, about once a month or so, I feel like I could literally explode.  I feel like every morning when I wake up I’m already on the edge.  So every time something happens, large or small, I just blow!  There are times when I physically feel like my head will simply shatter and blow right off the top of my head – like a volcano!

I think this is something that is especially characteristic of single moms, although I don’t think that we have the patent on it.  I know a lot of married moms that are seemingly raising their children as single moms.  They’re on their own all week, every other week or sometimes weeks at a time – they too understand this very well.

You are solely responsible for every function in your home, every event, every chore and errand.  You raise your children, discipline your children, attempt to have quality time with your children, maintain your home, and usually, we’re the sole breadwinner.

Now add the unusual junk, like a broken down vehicle, leaky roof, unexpected dental, optical or heath issues, or the all to well known and much dreaded TEMPER TANTRUM and well, that’s it!  There goes the “Mamma’s Peak”!  Come on!  How on Earth are we supposed to do all this?  How are we supposed to manage?  How can anyone expect us to be ‘Suzie Sunshine’ all the time?

Simple!  We go to God!  We give it all up and put all this junk in His hands.  Honestly, it really isn’t that simple, or I wouldn’t be here talking about it.  Indeed, we make it very difficult!  We hang on, laboring over it all wondering why we’re so exhausted, drained and irritable!

Duh!  We just aren’t made to handle it all alone!  God is patiently waiting for us to hand it all over to Him and we need to!  For us!  For our health!  For our kids!  For our family!  For our friends!  And, whether we realize it or not, for God!  He truly and passionately wants for us to admit how much we need Him!

The LORD is good, A stronghold in the day of trouble, And He knows those who take refuge in Him.  Nahum 1:7

GIVE UP!  LET IT GO!  LET GOD!

Do you understand the words that are comin’ outta my mouth?

GIVE UP!  LET IT GO!  LET GOD!

Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me.  John 14:1

He has the shoulders to bear our burdens Sisters!  He can and He will!  Praise God!

My God in His lovingkindness will meet me; God will let me look triumphantly upon my foes.  Psalm 59:10

For You have been a defense for the helpless, A defense for the needy in his distress, A refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat; For the breath of the ruthless Is like a rain storm against a wall.  Isaiah 25:40

Just a Puppet on a String

2007-05-21T00:01:00.000-05:00

7 Because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me—to keep me from exalting myself!
8 Concerning this I implored the Lord three times that it might leave me.
9 And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.
10 Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.  II Corinthians 12:7-10

Last week was very interesting and very busy – to say the least.  Among a lot of other things, I’ve been feeling very discouraged and very alone.

Fortunately, no matter how rough I get to feeling, no matter the reason, I always have one true and loyal friend that is always there, always listening and best of all, loves me unconditionally.  (Thank goodness for that!!!)  *smile*

So, while praying one night last week, I got to thinking about how much God has touched my life, how much He has changed me.  I got to thinking about who and what I was without Him and how far along He has brought me.

Imagine a puppet, a marionette, if you will, with just a string or two.  Kind of flopping around aimlessly, with little to no direction, no coordination, no charisma, no personality…nothing.  That was me – totally!

Like a lot of people, I too ‘asked Jesus into my heart’ at a very tender age, during some highly emotional altar call at Church Camp, however, for many years, I wandered, I rebelled, I went in every direction but the one God called me to.  Therefore, I don’t consider myself truly saved until 4 ½ years ago when I deeply and honestly repented of my sins and made a total commitment to follow Him and glorify Him in everything I do.

In this very short, but productive 4 ½ years, God has added more ‘strings’ and ‘details’ to this ‘doll’.  By His grace I have become more focused, more convicted, more committed, and overall, more beautiful and coordinated in every way!

For a little while now, I’ve been working on a little side project - something that is extremely dear to my heart and has no monetary value whatsoever.  Just a true ‘vision’ to do the will of God and glorify Him in the best way I know how.  I’m not quite ready to talk about it yet, but it’s been coming along quite well.  I truly believe that this is something that God would have me to do!

On Friday, I suffered a bit of a setback.  Something someone said led me to believe that I had nothing to offer, that I couldn’t be a good example to others because I’m essentially not a finished product.  Well, Hello?  Who is?  Can I not witness to the grace of God and His goodness in my life?  Can I not be a good example because of my accomplishments thus far?

The thing here is this; we MUST be happy and content with WHERE we are in Christ, WHO we are in Christ!  Not that we don’t continue to strive to be more, to be a ‘better’ version, or to be all that we can be through Him on this Earth, but we have to love ourselves and be happy where we are.  We can’t consume ourselves with being someone or something we are not.

This has been one of the hardest lessons for me to learn.  I am typically the type of person to care what other people think and to over analyze everything!  The past, the future - usually a lot of things that I have no control over anyway.  One thing I found that I could control, however, was me.  I could ‘decide’ to be happy and joyful and let things roll.  I can praise God for the lessons I’ve learned, the blessings I’ve received and the victory that He has planned for me!

10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned before, but you lacked opportunity.
11 Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.
12 I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.
13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
14 Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my affliction.  Philippians 4:10-14

Only when we are satisfied with what He has given us, will He trust us with more.  More blessings, more responsibility, etc.

Obviously, we all have a long way to go.  We all have ‘fine-tuning’ to undergo.  In the meantime, however, most of us have learned a lot and we’ve experience a lot.  Therefore, most of us have some insight to lend to those in a different place, those still struggling to surrender to the will of God.  (They just have to be willing to listen.)

Someday, when God is truly finished, and I am home in Heaven with Him, I will finally get to be a REAL little girl!  In the meantime, I’m just me.  –The ME that God created me to be trusting Him to guide my strings in the right directions!

Food for the Soul

2007-05-11T00:01:00.000-05:00

But the word is very near you, in your mouth and in your heart, that you may observe it.  Deuteronomy 30:14

But what does it say? "THE WORD IS NEAR YOU, IN YOUR MOUTH AND IN YOUR HEART "-- that is, the word of faith which we are preaching.  Romans 10:8

On Wednesday, our pastor, and the men of the church, prepared a fantastic Mother`s Day meal for us ladies.  They prepared a delicious mushroomy, cheesy, puffy appetizer thingy (that`s the `official` name now), crab soup and for the main course we had steak, mashed, garlic potatoes and asparagus wrapped in bacon!  Yum! Yum!  (Our pastor is quite the chef!)  They even served us!

It was a fantastic dinner.  We spent some wonderful time together with our mothers and children and we all ate until we were stuffed.  In fact, I spoke to the pastor`s wife on Thursday morning and we both still felt stuffed!  *smile*

Later that day, I got to thinking about how the Lord feeds us with His Word.  It is the `food` which our soul so desperately needs and hungers for.

I have not departed from the command of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.  Job 23:12

You know how you get SO hungry that your stomach feels like it will jump out of your skin and serve itself?  I think our spirit can get that way too!

This is my comfort in my affliction, That Your word has revived me.  Psalm 119:50

Sometimes, when we are very busy or the trials of life are a bit overwhelming, we tend to neglect the needs of our spirit.  We think that we can handle the pressure on our own and off we go to `deal` with things.  Neglecting the one true nourishment we always need!

But when the sun sets, he will be clean, and afterward he shall eat of the holy gifts, for it is his food.  Leviticus 22:7

Maybe we just feel like our problems are too `today` for the words in the Bible?  Maybe we don`t think that the authors of the Bible anticipated the problems we`d face `today`?

23 For you have been born again not of seed which is perishable but imperishable, that is, through the living and enduring word of God.

24 For, “ALL FLESH IS LIKE GRASS, AND ALL ITS GLORY LIKE THE FLOWER OF GRASS.  THE GRASS WITHERS, AND THE FLOWER FALLS OFF,

25 BUT THE WORD OF THE LORD ENDURES FOREVER.”  And this is the word which was preached to you.  I Peter 1:23-25

You have been born again from a seed that is imperishable through the living and enduring Word!  The Word of the Lord endures forever!  The things of the flesh, like grass will wither and pass away.  The pain, suffering, disappointment and sadness of the flesh is temporary!  The Word of God AND His promises, however, they endure!  They last FOREVER!  Through EVERYTHING!

It doesn`t really matter what we are `hungry` for!  Whether it be peace, joy, love, friendship, companionship, our Father God in Heaven is the most readily available and constant source we will ever need!

Every word of God is tested; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him.  Proverbs 30:5

Who gives food to all flesh, For His lovingkindness is everlasting.  Psalm 136:25

That says`tested.  According to another translation it reads “proven to be true”.  It also says that His lovingkindness is everlasting.

Honestly, we need to immerse ourselves in the Word.  It is truly a manual for living a life pleasing to Him and for life everlasting.

Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness.  II Corinthians 9:10

It is also important to not only guide ourselves and trust in the Lord, but to share that with non-believers.  So many people out there are lost.  So many people think they are on the `right track`!  Maybe WE think we`re on the `right track`?  The only way to truly glorify God is to use His manual!  Feed your soul!  If you are confused, hurt, angry, lost, trust in His way!  It is a sure fire way to help yourself and those around you!

In pointing out these things to the brethren, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine which you have been following.  I Timothy 4:6

It is Far Better to Give than to Receive

2007-05-09T00:01:00.000-05:00

How often do you hear `thank you`?

I don`t hear it very often.  It seems like I do so much for other people and don`t get very much appreciation at all.  Sometimes this really gets to me – like today!

I don`t know about you, but I find myself often faced with the decision of leaving a group or place because I feel more like a doormat than a member.  I love, hug, pray or lend an ear, but I never get much in return.  It would seem like there is never anyone there for me.

This is always a huge dilemma for me.  I try to have a heart to give and a mind to care and especially a spirit full of the love of God.  As human beings, this is really tough.  We want to be loved and cared for too!  We yearn for fellowship and people that miss us when we are away!  Unfortunately, the enemy is always there to lend a hand.  Reminding us how alone we feel or how we don`t `fit in` or that we`re `left out` all the time!

Fortunately, sitting here ranting about this does make me think of a few people in my life that do thank me, miss me or just all around care and that is comforting.  In fact, it lends to that saying about quality and NOT quantity!  Or perhaps, the one about not being able to please all of the people all of the time?

So then, if people are thankless, rude, thoughtless, inconsiderate, etc., should we remove them from our lives?  Should we discontinue a work that we feel called to do?  How much do we really have to bear before we can `call it quits` on something (or someone)?

This particular verse comes to mind (and is one of my favorites):

Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.  Proverbs 31:31

You know, this would imply that our true rewards aren`t even here on Earth!  Yes, surely God will bless His daughters and provide generously for them.  We will receive our true praise and appreciation from the Lord.

Our pastor has been discussing this a lot lately, in part because of some issues at church, but mostly because it is Godly to give and not worry so much about the receiving end!

And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing.  I Corinthians 13:3

Everything we do, we need to do for, through, about, because of, and with God.  Plain and simple!  If we do anything, including give, with the intention of receiving gratitude, appreciation or recognition from other human beings, our efforts are futile!  We may receive those things in the long run, but primarily, before all else, we have to live in a way pleasing to God.  A way which glorifies Him.

1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children;
2 and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.
3 But immorality or any impurity or greed must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints;
4 and there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks.
5 For this you know with certainty, that no immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.
6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience.
7 Therefore do not be partakers with them;
8 for you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light
9 (for the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth),
10 trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord.
11 Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them;
12 for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret.
13 But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light.
14 For this reason it says, “Awake, sleeper, And arise from the dead, And Christ will shine on you.”
15 Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise,
16 making the most of your time, because the days are evil.
17 So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.
18 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit,
19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord;
20 always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father;
21 and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.  Ephesians 5:11

Timing is Everything

2007-05-07T00:01:00.000-05:00

Once again, I’m revisiting a topic I’ve talked about before.  Once again, it is something that is weighing very heavily on my heart and I am dealing with it every day.  (Actually, I’m NOT dealing with it, which explains the need for revisiting it!)

As I’ve mentioned before, my family is faithfully searching for a new home.  Not just a house, not just a place to move, a HOME!  Have I ever mentioned how much I HATE moving?  I only want to do this once and do it right!  Under the circumstances, we need something a little more unique than what is traditionally available on the market.  (Within a reasonable price range that is.)  The kids need their own bedrooms, Mom needs a ‘suite’, and I need a bedroom and an office.  We surely need more bathrooms!  We’d ‘like’ a family room and perhaps an exercise room.  We need a garage.  We really, really, really want a nice, level, private yard…and the list goes on!  *smile*

We are once again entertaining the idea of buying a modular.  We found the exact modular we want and have planned out our basement!  We would end up with 3900 square feet of living space and approximately 500 square feet of garage!  (Right now the four of us are essentially living in 900 square feet of living space!)

Well, in a sincere effort to not insult anyone involved or resort to name-calling, I will just tell you that people are often not what they seem, although they say a lot of things - they don’t mean any of them and unfortunately, promises are not always kept.  I am finding myself, once again, very disheartened.

I’m struggling so much with this.  I know that God has a perfect plan for His people.  I know that He wants us to live comfortably and happily.  I know that He would not have us suffer!

So why then?  Why are we still in this same small house that desperately needs some TLC?  Why are we still subjected to neighbors that ‘flash’ us, damage our property, keep us up late at night and are all around inconsiderate?  Why?

Because, for whatever reason or purpose, it just isn’t God’s time yet.  Either something isn’t available for us yet, we need to ‘do’ something here before we move…I don’t know.  I have no clue whatsoever!

There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven.  Ecclesiastes 3:1

All I know for sure is this, God will not allow us to continue to suffer like this.  He will not allow us to continue to suffer sleepless nights, to be cramped, stressed, fearful, insulted, or anything else that is going on.

For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.  Jeremiah 29:11

It is so hard, as human beings, immersed in this sinful, material, ‘natural’ world to think outside of the box.  To think within the box, or the promises of, God.  It is times like this, times of disappointment, heartache, hardship, frustration, that we need to look to Him and to His word.  To not fall victim to the deceit and the lies of the enemy.  Unlike every other promise or declaration, those of our Lord and Savior are true!

6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time,
7 casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.
8 Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
9 But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world.
10 After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you.
11 To Him be dominion forever and ever. Amen.  I Peter 5:6-11

John Newton & Amazing Grace

2007-05-04T00:01:00.000-05:00

Grace: “The freely given, unmerited favor and love of God.”
(According to: Dictionary.com)

“Amazing Grace” is seriously one of my favorite hymns.  I`ve sung it to both of my children (when they were too little to offer their opinions on my singing talents or lack thereof) and there is just something so deep-down, spiritual about “Amazing Grace” on bagpipes!  -Don`t you think?

Well, color me surprised when our Women`s Study group listened to a story about the life of `John Newton`.  He`s the fella that wrote “Amazing Grace”.  This is a pretty powerful and interesting story.  I thought it would be fun to share!

John Newton (1725 – 1807), was the son of a merchant ship commander.  He began a life at sea at the age of 11.  On March 4, 1744, he was press ganged (to force (men) into the army or navy) into service as a seaman on the man-of-war, the H. M. S. Harwich.

Meanwhile, he was in terribly in love with this gal, Mary Catlett.  Although they loved one another very much, she refused to marry him because he was not a believer.

Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness?  II Corinthians 6:14

While on the H. M. S. Harwich he longed to be back on land and with Mary.  He even deserted at one point, only to be captured and publicly flogged.  It was then, that he was demoted from midshipman to common seaman.  He ended up serving on a slave trading ship and was even abused himself.

He was gone for a long time, but Mary waited for him.  During one of his trips, he was caught in a terrible hurricane.  It didn`t take him long to finally seek the refuge of God.  He finally made his way back to England and found Mary.  They were married.  He even ended up becoming a minister!  Somewhere along the line, he wrote “Amazing Grace”.

His life and trials are truly remarkable and obviously, this is a gross overview!  (I was never very good at book reports either!)

For those of you that love to read and learn, here are some more detailed stories about John Newton.  I encourage you to read more.  This is truly a great testimony to the deliverance that God has to offer even the most lost of His children!

Wikipedia: John Newton

The Cowper and Newton Museum: John Newton

Amazing Grace: The Story of John Newton

Amazing Grace, The Story of John Newton, Author of America's Favorite Hymn

Amazing grace! (how sweet the sound)
That sav`d a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.

`Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears reliev`d;
How precious did that grace appear,
The hour I first believ`d!

Thro` many dangers, toils and snares,
I have already come;
`Tis grace has brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.

The Lord has promis`d good to me,
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.

Yes, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease;
I shall possess, within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,
The sun forbear to shine;
But God, who call`d me here below,
Will be forever mine.

56th Annual National Day of Prayer

2007-05-03T00:01:00.000-05:00

The mission statement for the National Day of Prayer Task Force:

The National Day of Prayer Task Force`s mission is to communicate with every individual the need for personal repentance and prayer, mobilizing the Christian community to intercede for America and its leadership in the five centers of power: Church, Education, Family, Government and Media.

To read more about the National Day of Prayer, what it is and how it got started, check them out here.

(NOTE:  Their website is moving very slow today.  Regardless, be sure to check them out at some point!  The information and history makes for a really good read!)

This certainly is an event worth celebrating!  Don`t you think?

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.  II Chronicles 7:14

Obviously, we cannot physically `gather`, but we can come together in spirit and agreement and pray to our Father God for the needs of our Nation.

Most importantly, before you do anything else, observe 3 minutes of silence.  Reflect and search your heart.  If you have never done so, or have strayed for a while, seek personal repentance.  Make a point to be right with God before you do anything else!

23 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:
24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.  Psalm 123:23-24

Go to the Father washed by the blood of the Lamb and free of sin.

Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.  James 5:16

In observance of the occasion, I thought that I would say a prayer, write it down and share it with my Sisters.  I`ll try to stay general and try to remember all the major things, but it IS Thursday and my brain is officially at `mush` status.  (I`m sure that I will personally be praying all day in order to remember everything!)  When praying your own prayer, please feel free to add your own concerns, prayer requests, and special needs!  I thought it would be nice to have some sort of guideline to get you started!

Dear Precious Father in Heaven,

Today is a day that our Nation acknowledges You and acknowledges the power of prayer.  Lord, I pray that as groups gather and heads bow all over our Nation, that people would have the eyes to see and the ears to hear of Your glory, Your grace, Your unconditional love and Your blessings!  I pray for the salvation of our brothers and sisters as they are encouraged to seek You and welcome You into their hearts today!  Ultimately Lord, I pray that salvation is seen in unbelievably, large numbers.

Lord, I pray for our churches, their pastors, leaders and congregations, for their dedication, wisdom and perseverance as they reach out and minister to others.  Please Father, be their rock and their refuge in a world that ridicules and mimics Christians.  Help them to hold on to the promises of Your Word and the hope of life everlasting.

Father, please guide our school systems as they are faced with challenging decisions every day.  Help them to make clear, concise and wise choices for the future of our children.  Please protect and guide our teachers and administrators through the numerous obstacles they face as they dedicate their lives to the growth and education of our children.  Please help them to be encouraging, nurturing, positive influences in our children’s lives.

Please Father, protect our children, at school, at home and at play.  They are faced with so many decisions and temptations every day.  They are picked on and bullied; they struggle with the stresses of academic and athletic performance, Lord, they need You so very much.  Please Lord, I ask that You veil them in Your protection.  It`s hard to believe, but I know that You do indeed love them even more than we do and I trust Father, that You will hold them tight in Your loving arms, safe from harm.

Please Lord, protect our entire families as we are continually attacked by the cruelties and temptations of this sinful world.  Father, please shield our relationships with spouses, children, parents, siblings, friends, neighbors and co-workers, and bless us with the ability to cultivate these relationships and nurture them in a way that is glorifying to You.

Father, I pray for our Nation, her leaders, her servicemen and their families.  Please help those in power to have clarity and make sound, wise decisions.  Lord, please, please, dispatch Your own army of guardian angels to protect and shelter our servicemen.  Father, please allow them to come home to their families safe and unharmed.  In the meantime, Lord, I pray that their families could find peace and rest in Your arms.

Lord, I pray for those in positions to inform and guide the citizens of this country.  Please Father help them to use wisdom and have clarity when choosing their words.  The media plays an important role in the morale and temperament of our nation`s people.  Lord it is obvious that they need Your support and guidance in every decision they make.

Most importantly, Father, today, as many people everywhere will be praying FOR so many things, I want to take the time to thank You, with my whole heart, for loving me and for sacrificing Your son for my salvation.  I thank You for my family`s safety and health, for the many blessings that You bestow upon me, for the opportunities You present me with each and every day and the prosperity and success, love and friendship that You offer to me not only through my Earthly friends and loved ones, but especially through You.  You are my rock and my fortress, my shelter in the rain.  Hallelujah!

In Your Precious Holy Name Lord,

Amen

For more information and ideas:  National Day of Prayer – Official Website

Check out these nifty little Prayer Bracelets

Be ALL That You Can Be

2007-05-02T00:01:00.000-05:00

1 Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion,

2 make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.

3 Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves;

4 do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.

5 Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus,

6 who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped,

7 but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men.

8 Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

9 For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name,

10 so that at the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE WILL BOW, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

11 and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

12 So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling;

13 for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.

14 Do all things without grumbling or disputing;

15 so that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world,

16 holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I will have reason to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain.

17 But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all.

18 You too, I urge you, rejoice in the same way and share your joy with me.

Philippians 2:1-18

These verses have truly become some of my favorites.  If you look them up in the Online Parallel Bible , they are entitled “Be Like Christ”.  They are pretty much self explanatory and truly lay out the guidelines for living a righteous life.  I came across them last week while hunting for some other ideas and made a note.  This morning, while rifling through papers for the dentist`s phone number, I came across the note again.

Monday night we had the extreme pleasure of having dinner with the pastor, his wife and children and another family from church.

Ultimately, conversation turned to the issues of forgiveness and Godliness.  (As it often does with this group.)  We also discussed the difference between living for people and living for God and striving to live in a way which is pleasing to Him.  So, obviously, these words were laid on my heart today for a reason.  (The Lord works in mysterious ways.)

Yes, I`ve visited this issue a lot lately, but it is something that I am dealing with and working at and I think, as human beings interacting with other human beings, most of us always will.

In this world, full of fleshly whims and desires, it is impossible to be perfect.  It is impossible for us to be perfect and it is impossible for those around us to be.  (That includes those we love, those we don`t and even those that are seemingly unlovable!)

Personally, I think that if we cease to be amazed by people`s behavior, we have become desensitized, we have succumbed to the sinful world we live in. (I certainly don`t want that to happen to me!)  Initially, the audacity, ignorance, repulsiveness, thoughtlessness, hatefulness, inconsideration, etc., should shock us!

At that point however, it becomes our responsibility to deal with it – to make a choice!  (What a task!)  We can choose to be a part of the ongoing problem or we can choose to be part of the solution!  (By the way, judging, pointing fingers, gossiping, etc. does NOT serve any real purpose!  That type of behavior only lends to the problem!)

We can`t necessarily change the world or the people in it.  We CAN change ourselves!  We are responsible for our own salvation and Godliness!  We can choose to stand up straight and tall, full of the Holy Spirit and deal with the blows the world deals out with composure, grace and class only available by the grace of God!

From there, we can hope and pray that our `rightness` will become infectious!

Be ALL that you can be through Jesus Christ your Lord and Savior!

A Day to Remember

2007-05-01T00:01:00.000-05:00

But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.  Isaiah 40:31

This morning, I had my whole blog thought out, typed up and ready to go.  As I went to label and save it, I realized that today is May 1st.  There are a lot of great things about the first day in May.  It becomes a little more evident that Spring is here and Summer is near.  It`s also a new month, full of new hope and promise!

Around our house however, it is a rough day emotionally.  Today would have been my Grandmother`s birthday.

I considered using the blog that was done and ready, but then I got to thinking about this incredible woman, about the incredible daughter she had that I know as “Mom”, and the important roles these women have played in my life.  I wanted to pay tribute to Grandma and share a bit about her!

Once upon a time...my Gramdma divorced my Pappy because he was having an affair with her best friend.  She had to take on several jobs to support her daughters and my Mom was left to raise my Aunt.  Nowadays, this is a pretty common thing, but then, it was pretty rare!  Grandma didn`t let that phase her.  She did what she had to and she did a fantastic job.  She didn`t moan and groan and complain about it or get bitter either!  She just stood up straight and moved forward.

Well, moving along to the things I actually remember about Grandma - I`m the oldest grandchild, but I only remember bits and pieces now.  I`m trying to reminisce as much as possible and hang on to the memories, because my brother and cousins remember even less!

A real `hoot` for me was when she would take me to work with her.  It`s so funny now, because with insurance stipulations and guidelines, I`m sure that would never happen today!  I used to spend the night with her all the time.  That was also a real treat for me, because Grandma lived in `town`.  I grew up in the country (and I like it that way) so getting to stay in town and play with the kids in her neighborhood totally rocked!  I read somewhere just this morning about staying out late and playing “Hide & Seek” in the dark.  That was the best!

Later on, when my brother and cousins came along, we all used to go to the lake.  This was one of Grandma`s favorite things to do.  She would take a bunch of food and just sit and watch us play for hours on end.

Grandma bought this piece of property (10 acres) in the middle of nowhere.  She used to drag everyone out there for family outings.  We used to eat a lot of food, play ball and throw horseshoes all day long!  It was always important to her to have family around and to spend time together!  She was one of those people that `made up` occasions if she had to!

Not too long after that, Grandma was diagnosed with breast cancer.  Initially, she kept trying to live life the way she was accustomed, but it became harder and harder.  She was in more and more pain and the cancer continued to spread.

My Mom got on as her substitute so that Grandma could get the time off from work that she needed for doctor`s appointments and such.  Mom still has that job today!  Perhaps a part of her is `at home` doing the same job that her Mother did over 20 years ago?

As Grandma got worse and became bed-ridden, I moved in with her and tried to help take care of her.  (I was 16 at the time.)  I have to admit, looking back, I really hated doing it.  There wasn`t too much about it that was advantageous for me.  I couldn`t hang out with my friends or go anywhere.  The worst part of all was that her new husband was a real pill.  He used to treat me so poorly!  However, I really did want to help Grandma and take care of her.  She needed someone so badly and she was so appreciative.  I can still hear her apologizing because I was the child and she should be taking care of me – not the other way around.

After fighting this miserable disease for 11 years, Grandma died when I was 17.  One of the last things she said to my Mom was that she was tired and done fighting - that she was ready to go home to be with her Lord!  How amazing is that?

Well, even today, I still miss her so much.  I think about how much she`d love my kids!  I often wonder if she`d be proud of me.

So, although I miss Grandma very much and I know that my Mom does too, we have to find comfort in the fact that she is with her Heavenly Father now.  She is no longer in pain and she is walking!  She is no longer affected by the sickness and disease of this worldly life!

Breast Cancer Awareness month is October, but I encourage everyone to be informed!  Read the information available to you!  Know what to look for!  Go for regular testing and screening!  Early detection is everything!

Finally, if you feel so inclined, while you are there, contribute to the cause and help to find a cure!

National Breast Cancer Foundation

A Day of Silence...

2007-04-30T09:22:00.000-05:00

Faith Like a Mustard Seed

2007-04-27T00:01:00.000-05:00

For truly I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, `Move from here to there,` and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you.  Matthew 17:20

Around my house, the last couple of weeks have been a bit more trying than usual.  It seems as though we are simply muddling through and `just getting by`.  (Anyone else feel that way?)

Before I explain the details I would like to take a moment and thank God for His many blessings.  Especially pointing out, that I am sincerely grateful to Him for the health and safety of my children, my Mom, myself and the rest of my family and friends.  I realize that things could surely be much worse!

So, I`ve been sizing up this next post and debating what material to use as a `jumping off` point.  This is tough, because I don`t want to gripe or complain!  *wink*

Maybe I`ll start by telling you that I got a bit of a raw deal with my new vehicle.  (Luckily it is only cosmetic.)  There is some body damage that was `hidden` and I didn`t find it until my first thorough washing/waxing attempt.  This could easily be a very costly job and obviously one that I cannot justify the funds for right now.  Can you say `GRRR`?

What`s more, while the nation was reeling in death and suffering, some idiot(s) had the audacity to enter onto our property (through a gated fence) and steal both of my sons peddle bikes.  (Both of which he saved his own money to buy!)  I realize that this is what the `world` has been reduced to, but I still find it hard to understand.  We left something outside, on our patio, propped up against our home, next to our back door, (in plain view) and this justifies someone TAKING what is OURS?  The police really can`t do much.  They did promise to increase their presence in our area, but  I haven`t seen them yet.  Alas, this is how THIS summer has begun with my neighbors.  A girlfriend asked me if I really thought they were involved.  Most definitely!  The effects of the `world` on my neighborhood have been unbelievable.  UNBELIEVABLE!  We just can`t get moved fast enough!

Simply put, there are a lot of `little` things that are building up.  Every once in a while I get a little overwhelmed by it all.  To mention everything individually would probably wander into the realm of complaining and I am doing my very best to stay out of there!  (Even though that little purple bracelet isn`t here yet!)  *wink*

Overall I am just feeling very alone and sad.  Not depressed or anything major like that.  Just that annoying `alone` feeling when you ache for someone to `make it all better`!  You want for those strong arms wrapped around you to soften all the blows.  Perhaps a loving whisper of encouragement in your ear.

Although in the natural we seem to be incredibly alone, we need to refocus, step out of the box, so to speak!  Each one of us has a friend and comforter like no other!  Certainly like no one on this Earth!

2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort,
4 who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
5 For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ.
6 But if we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; or if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which is effective in the patient enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer;
7 and our hope for you is firmly grounded, knowing that as you are sharers of our sufferings, so also you are sharers of our comfort.  II Corinthians 1:2-7

God is always working to `make it all better`!  His arms are the strongest and He`s always willing to wrap them around you!  He never stops whispering uplifting, encouraging, loving words in your ear – just be willing to listen!

We`re never alone!  Have faith!  Even that of a mustard seed!  (Which by the way, is not quite as big as the top of a pin!)

1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
2 For by it the men of old gained approval.
3 By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things which are visible.
4 By faith Abel offered to God a better sacrifice than Cain, through which he obtained the testimony that he was righteous, God testifying about his gifts, and through faith, though he is dead, he still speaks.
5 By faith Enoch was taken up so that he would not see death; AND HE WAS NOT FOUND BECAUSE GOD TOOK HIM UP; for he obtained the witness that before his being taken up he was pleasing to God.
6 And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.  Hebrews 11:1-6

Bless & Be Blessed

2007-04-25T00:01:00.000-05:00

Over the weekend, I had the incredible pleasure of being a part of “Walk America”.  It was a wonderful experience that my children and I shared with many other people, some of which, I`d like to think we can now call friends.

When we got involved with “Jenna`s Team” almost two months ago, I had all intentions of printing the shirts and hats, rounding up a few sponsors and that would be that.  As I got to know John and Jennifer better, I suddenly wanted to do everything I could to make their first experience with “Walk America” a huge success.  I couldn`t bring their daughter back or ease their grief in any way, but I could help them support the March of Dimes!

All I can say is WOW!  It was such a glorious day.  God delivered us amazing weather!  It was warm and sunny and not one cloud in the sky! Amidst all the tragedy, fear and sadness of the week before, I was so relieved and encouraged to see so many people pull together for the health and survival of babies!

So, here I was setting out to bless “Jenna`s Team” and immediately, God blessed me by showing me some human behavior that I was beginning to lose hope in!  He showed me that there are still people that wish for nothing more than to spread kindness, love, selflessness, and He blessed me with some wonderful, new friends!

The moral of the story, here is this, do everything you do with your whole heart, for the glory of God.  He will reward you abundantly!

Sow with a view to righteousness, Reap in accordance with kindness; Break up your fallow ground, For it is time to seek the LORD Until He comes to rain righteousness on you.  Hosea 10:12

Do not however, attempt to please or impress `people` with your efforts.  You will always, always, be disheartened.  It is simply impossible to please everyone all of the time.  But, the good news is this, when we are doing everything with and through God and for His glory, He is always pleased and He will reward us richly!

6 Now this I say, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.
7 Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed.
II Corinthians 9:6-8

Praise God!

Flowers for the Ones You Love

2007-04-23T00:01:00.000-05:00

Have you ever heard people say something like this?  “I`d rather have a few flowers now, while I`m alive, than dozens when I`m dead and can`t appreciate them”?

I`ve heard it a few times, and it makes a whole lot of sense if you think about it!

We all get so absorbed and bogged down with our own lives and problems that we often don`t take the time necessary to nurture our relationships – before it`s too late.

It`s really easy to fault-find, nag and get frustrated with each other.  We get SO upset when our kids don`t clean their rooms or they leave their dirty clothes on the bathroom floor.  And it drives us totally bonkers when our good friends at church go on and on about the same things time and time again.

But the fact of the matter is - love is of God.

Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.  I John 4:7

We spend SO much time complaining, griping and being offended - really it all boils down to being judgmental and intolerant of others – being `UN`loving!

Personally, I`ve been working very hard to stop judging people.  To stop pointing out their shortcomings and love EVERYONE as a brother or sister in Christ – just as I wish to be loved.  (Yes, this is very difficult!  Sometimes it is done with little or no appreciation – in the natural anyway.)

This is why we look to God for strength and encouragement.  This is one of those things we can only do through Him – FOR Him!

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.  Philippians 4:13

Last week, there was a lot of fear, tragedy and death – all over the country!  For most of us, it triggers an intense sense of loss and sadness, whether we knew the individuals or not.  We mourn the loss and grieve for the families.

Amidst all of this, I got to thinking about how futile life seems sometimes, how mundane and routine our lives become.

I`ve often heard pastors preach on the importance of acknowledging your love for family and friends and doing it often.  (There must be something to this!)

Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow.  James 1:17

Let them know you love them, let them know you care and appreciate them.  Tell your kids that you`re proud of their accomplishments and love the people they`re becoming.  Give them a hug before school – even if they`re not too thrilled about it!  Say a prayer over them as they go, ask God for His protection and guidance for them – always thank Him for your beautiful blessings!

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.  Philippians 4:6

We never know how long we have together or when we`ll leave this Earth.  It`s important to make life matter – make everything you do matter!  -Do it from your heart!

Take a moment today to show those most important to you how much you care.  Show everyone you care!  Give out a few extra smiles, say an extra `thank you` or `excuse me` at the grocery store or shopping mall today.

Give out some flowers!

19 Therefore, brethren, since we have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus,
20 by a new and living way which He inaugurated for us through the veil, that is, His flesh,
21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God,
22 let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.
23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful;
24 and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds,
25 not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.
Hebrews 10:19-25

Nothing to Fear?

2007-04-21T00:01:00.000-05:00

In light of recent events, just within my son`s school district, I wanted to reflect a bit about fear and what the Word says about it.

Just this week, there have been at least 2 bomb threats and 1 shooting threat - within a 25 mile radius!  As I write this, my son is at school under `lock down`.  I only know this because my ex-husband was kind enough to call and inform me!  The school however, does not tell us what in the world is going on!  Rumors and assumptions fly all over the place!  What is a parent to do?

Well, for now, I`m not even going to vent or complain about my views on this for a few reasons!  1) I`m currently attempting to overcome the complaining `addiction` (see previous post) and 2) After several situations, like this, this year, I`m learning to `let go & let God`!  (Both are equally as challenging!)

`Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.`  Isaiah 41:10

It is times like these that I have to rest securely in my faith - in my God!  He is bigger and more powerful than anything that comes against my son or anyone in my family!  I have to believe that whatever the outcome, whether it be intended for good or evil, my God will use it for His glory!

11 But let all who take refuge in You be glad, Let them ever sing for joy; And may You shelter them, That those who love Your name may exult in You.
12 For it is You who blesses the righteous man, O LORD, You surround him with favor as with a shield.  Psalm 5:11-12

I mean, I would just crumble if anything happened to one of my kids!  But I have found myself worrying to the point of physical illness!  Enough already!

God promises to protect us!  He promises to have our best interest at heart!  Granted, evil rules this world and it is made more and more obvious to us with each and every terrorist attack and school massacre!

Keep me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from the violent man; who have purposed to overthrow my goings.  Psalm 140:4

But, for those of us who choose to believe in God`s Word, in His promises – we can have hope and faith in better things!

1 Hear my voice, O God, in my prayer: preserve my life from fear of the enemy.
2 Hide me from the secret counsel of the wicked; from the insurrection of the workers of iniquity:
3 Who whet their tongue like a sword, and bend their bows to shoot their arrows, even bitter words:
4 That they may shoot in secret at the perfect: suddenly do they shoot at him, and fear not.
5 They encourage themselves in an evil matter: they commune of laying snares privily; they say, Who shall see them?
6 They search out iniquities; they accomplish a diligent search: both the inward thought of every one of them, and the heart, is deep.
7 But God shall shoot at them with an arrow; suddenly shall they be wounded.
8 So they shall make their own tongue to fall upon themselves: all that see them shall flee away.
9 And all men shall fear, and shall declare the work of God; for they shall wisely consider of his doing.
10 The righteous shall be glad in the LORD, and shall trust in him; and all the upright in heart shall glory.  Psalm 64:1-10

A Complaint Free World

2007-04-20T00:01:00.000-05:00

What an endearing thought – right?

Well, evidently, there`s an initiative going on to achieve just that!  Could YOU do it?  Well, I`m about to try and I`m taking my friends and fellow bloggers with me! *smile*

For the next 21 days (or as soon as my bracelet arrives) I will be attempting to NOT complain!  -About anything!  Holy Cow!!!

Scientists say it takes 21 days to break a habit and create a new one.  Whew!

Here`s what you need to do to get started:

1. Click here to order a free purple Complaint Free bracelet.

2. Tag at least 3 people and spread the word. Challenge them to participate.

3. The final step, and most important. STOP COMPLAINING! You put your bracelet on and any time you catch yourself complaining you must switch it to the opposite wrist. The goal is to go 21 days without switching it. If you switch it, your 21 days starts all over again.

7 Because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me—to keep me from exalting myself!
8 Concerning this I implored the Lord three times that it might leave me.
9 And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.
10 Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ`s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.  II Corinthians 12:9

I`ve tagged Alicia, Heather, Shera  Have fun with it & Good Luck!!!

Like Learning to Ride a Bike

2007-04-19T00:01:00.000-05:00

This week, my 3-year old learned to effectively peddle his bike.  It`s such a joy to watch him get it right and appreciate the new-found luxury of `riding his bike`!  Before, he was just pushing himself along – doing the best he could.

(As I`ve mentioned before, I get my inspiration in some really unique ways!) *wink*

As I was relishing in his achievement, I got to thinking about how `easy` God is and how reliable He is.  I was thinking about how most of us just `push ourselves along` or `do the best we can` when we`re without Him.

People often say things like “once you learn to ride a bike you never forget” or “it`s as easy as learning to ride a bike”.

Once God touches your life, even the slightest bit, you never really forget Him!  You may rebel or even ignore Him, but He`s a part of you.  His love and grace are instilled in your brain,  your heart and most importantly, your soul!  He patiently waits for us to come back to Him of our own will and desire.  He`s ready and waiting for us to repent our sins and get on the right path with Him.

38 Peter said to them, “Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
39 “For the promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off, as many as the Lord our God will call to Himself.”
40 And with many other words he solemnly testified and kept on exhorting them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation!”  Acts 2:38-40

God really doesn`t make it hard to walk with Him.  It may seem like it at the time.  It may seem like you have to give up `having fun` or give up your `freedom` – you really have so much to gain!

9 But, beloved, we are convinced of better things concerning you, and things that accompany salvation, though we are speaking in this way.
10 For God is not unjust so as to forget your work and the love which you have shown toward His name, in having ministered and in still ministering to the saints.
11 And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end,
12 so that you will not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.  Hebrews 6:9-12

Looking back over my own life, I have to wonder now what the attraction really was in all of the sin and fleshly desires.  I was constantly struggling and alone.  I was never really happy or joyful!

Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.  II Corinthians 7:1

Goodness!  Here I am enjoying the best part of my life so far and all those things are gone!  All those people are gone.  I went through one of the toughest times in my life and none of those `friends` were there for me!  They just found a new drinking buddy, a new ride around town or a new house to party at.

What did I really give up?  Not a darn thing!  I gained so much love from God, so much peace, joy, happiness and contentment.

Don`t get me wrong, there are still struggles and some loneliness, but now I`m not alone – not at all!  I have my Heavenly Father right here beside me!  Unlike the love or friendship or kindness of anyone I`ve ever known here on Earth, my God NEVER leaves me nor forsakes me!

1 “I love You, O LORD, my strength.”
2 The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
3 I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised, And I am saved from my enemies.    Psalm 18:1-3

2According to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure.
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
4 to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you,
5 who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
6 In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials,
7 so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
8 and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory,
9 obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.  I Peter 1:2-9

Praise God!

1 And working together with Him, we also urge you not to receive the grace of God in vain—
2 for He says, “AT THE ACCEPTABLE TIME I LISTENED TO YOU, AND ON THE DAY OF SALVATION I HELPED YOU.” Behold, now is “THE ACCEPTABLE TIME,” behold, now is “THE DAY OF SALVATION”—
3 giving no cause for offense in anything, so that the ministry will not be discredited,
4 but in everything commending ourselves as servants of God, in much endurance, in afflictions, in hardships, in distresses,
5 in beatings, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in sleeplessness, in hunger,
6 in purity, in knowledge, in patience, in kindness, in the Holy Spirit, in genuine love,
7 in the word of truth, in the power of God; by the weapons of righteousness for the right hand and the left,
8 by glory and dishonor, by evil report and good report; regarded as deceivers and yet true;
9 as unknown yet well-known, as dying yet behold, we live; as punished yet not put to death,
10 as sorrowful yet always rejoicing, as poor yet making many rich, as having nothing yet possessing all things.
11 Our mouth has spoken freely to you, O Corinthians, our heart is opened wide.
12 You are not restrained by us, but you are restrained in your own affections.
13 Now in a like exchange—I speak as to children—open wide to us also.
14 Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness?
15 Or what harmony has Christ with Belial, or what has a believer in common with an unbeliever?
16 Or what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; just as God said, “I WILL DWELL IN THEM AND WALK AMONG THEM; AND I WILL BE THEIR GOD, AND THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE.
17 “Therefore, COME OUT FROM THEIR MIDST AND BE SEPARATE,” says the Lord. “AND DO NOT TOUCH WHAT IS UNCLEAN; And I will welcome you.
18 “And I will be a father to you, And you shall be sons and daughters to Me,” Says the Lord Almighty.  II Corinthians 6:1-18

Love on Heather!

2007-04-18T00:01:00.000-05:00

In today`s world, there is so much heartache, sadness and tragedy.  Words cannot describe the horror at Virginia Tech this week!  So much senseless death!  So much madness!  I cannot even imagine what those parents, husbands, wives, sisters, brothers, friends and classmates must be feeling!  (I pray that I am spared such heartache!)

Honestly, it seems like the more that we reach out and connect with people, the more knowledge we gain, (via media, internet, word of mouth) - the more we are exposed to.

17 And I gave my heart to know wisdom, and to know madness and folly: I perceived that this also is vexation of spirit.
18 For in much wisdom is much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow.  Ecclesiastes 1:17-18

I`ve found lately, that I`ve been bombarded with prayer requests!  Somehow, people know that my family and I will be lifting them and their loved ones up in prayer.

Recently, a very sad and grievous prayer request was announced on one of my favorite forums.

One of the owners, Heather, has been diagnosed with a brain tumor.  I`ve only been getting to know Heather since February and she has totally touched my life!  She is such an inspiring young woman!  I immediately felt a connection with her.  I could tell right away that she was sensitive, warm, loving, kind, honest, loyal and most of all, she loves her Father with her whole heart!

She is married to Mark and they have three precious children.  When I read Heather`s blog, I identify with her and her concerns.  She isn`t afraid to `die` so much (I mean who wouldn`t want to escape this crazy world and go home to be with our Savior?)  She IS however, afraid to leave her children behind!  What mother in her right mind wouldn`t be?  (Especially a single mom!  Do you know where your children would be placed?)

Now, Heather needs me - she needs us!

Wednesday, April 18th has been cited as “Love on Heather” day.  On Wednesday, April 25th, she and Mark will be seeking a second opinion and medical treatment at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota - the number one neurosurgery hospital in the country.

Funds are being raised in order to ease the financial burdens that Heather and Mark are faced with so that they may better be able to concentrate on the issue at hand, Heather`s healing!

I encourage you to read more from those who know Heather best or read more about Heather`s story from her.

More about “Love on Heather”

Read Heather`s blog and follow her journey.

Most importantly, I encourage you to donate.  We all get a little nervous when it comes to giving money on-line, but wouldn`t you want the support if you needed it?

And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.  II Peter 1:7

The money is collected securely via Pay Pal and goes straight to Heather and Mark.  No one will know if you give or how much, but God will.  Sow a seed of charity in Heather`s direction!

Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned.  I Timothy 1:5

char•i•ty

• generous actions or donations to aid the poor, ill, or helpless
• something given to a person or persons in need
• a charitable act or work
• a charitable fund, foundation, or institution
• benevolent feeling, esp. toward those in need or in disfavor
• leniency in judging others; forbearance
• Christian love

Search your heart!  If you truly cannot give, the Lord knows that and He knows your heart!  If you can, remember that the smallest amounts will add up if we all respond to the call!

Most precious of all, lift Heather, her family, her friends and her co-workers in your prayers!

Dear Father in Heaven,

We know by Your Word and Your promises that You are a healing God, that anything is possible, that even in today`s crazy world, You perform miracles!  You have the power that leaves doctors standing in amazement at unexplained recoveries!

Lord, we stand in agreement here for Your immediate control over this situation, for Heather`s healing, for her family`s peace of mind and reassurance that You are bigger than anything they face!

Sweet Father, we just ask that You put Your loving arms around our precious Heather and her family right now so that they would feel Your love, hold steadfast to You and that they would have the strength, determination and courage to conquer this situation!

We pray that You would use Heather`s victory to show the world Your supernatural power and healing, that her testimony will bring many of our brothers and sisters back into the fold!

In Jesus` Precious Name, Amen!

And on the basis of faith in His name, it is the name of Jesus which has strengthened this man whom you see and know; and the faith which comes through Him has given him this perfect health in the presence of you all.  Acts 3:16

More participating blogs and sites to check out!

I Should be Folding Laundry

5 Minutes for Mom

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes

2007-04-16T00:01:00.000-05:00

Well, speaking of learning things, something has really been weighing on my heart and it fits so perfectly with talking of forgiveness, judgment (or not judging), tolerance, etc.

In our church, there are some women, a `click` if you will.  For a long time, I felt so alienated and unappreciated!  I worked very hard last year with our youth program, dedicating time and money I really didn`t have.  But I chose to do it because I felt that God led me to and I knew that no one else was volunteering.

Despite the love and appreciation from the pastor and his wife, I was absolutely struggling and by the end of this experience, I was ready to quit the church.  Even some really good friends encouraged me to start `church shopping` again!

I just couldn`t do it.  I felt a bond with this little church and I felt that if I didn`t overcome my anger, disheartenment, bitterness and hurt feelings – who was ever going to help them?  Help me?  Maybe they needed a good example?  Maybe I needed to learn something?

They`d spent so much time feuding and bickering amongst themselves!  What if I could overcome my obstacles, by the grace of God, and show them ALL love and kindness.  What if I was excited about my place there!  And hey, if it didn`t work, I spent my time glorifying the King instead of being a part of the problem – right?

12 Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus.
13 Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead,
14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
15 Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, have this attitude; and if in anything you have a different attitude, God will reveal that also to you;
16 however, let us keep living by that same standard to which we have attained.  Philippians 3:12-16

Well, I have seen some incredible changes!  (In all of us!)

I find that these ladies are hugging me and confiding in me, coveting my prayers and not only inviting me to women`s meetings and Bible studies, but nominating me for offices!

Now, don`t get me wrong, I know that the only way I can do any good here is by the power and strength of God!

Without Him, I am totally incapable of most things, especially something like this!  Normally, I am a very sensitive, defensive type of person and my feelings get hurt easily!  -God is truly working on this!

Around Christmas I just decided to dig my heels in.  My kids love this church; their Sunday School teachers and the pastor embrace them both with a love and kindness truly inspired by God!  I knew that I would be hard pressed to find that for them anywhere else!  I knew they would get the most here and grow closer to God!

So, what about me?  I had to choose between going to church and being miserable and neglected, or change myself and be part of the solution!  -It has been an amazing transformation!

Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you.  I Timothy 4:16

Something I`m learning about these people, myself and life in general is this . . . before you cast judgment or form an opinion about someone, walk that mile in their shoes!

You will find that some of these people have suffered incredible losses, they`ve lost children, husbands, they`ve experienced bitter divorces, they have children that constantly battle the legal system and neglect their families, they have children and grandchildren suffering the effects of divorce and drug/alcohol abuse, they`ve been raped and abused, neglected by their parents, abused by their husbands . . . whatever their reasons and whether they be justified, they simply may need what you can give!  (What our Almighty Lord and Savior wishes to deliver to them, through you!)  Your listening ear, your prayers, your sensitivity, your encouraging words, a hug, or perhaps something as simple as a smile!

I encourage you Sisters, stop being selfish (as I was), stop trying to do it alone, seek the guidance of our Heavenly Father and be a part of the solution!  NOT part of the problem!

32 But remember the former days, when, after being enlightened, you endured a great conflict of sufferings,
33 partly by being made a public spectacle through reproaches and tribulations, and partly by becoming sharers with those who were so treated.
34 For you showed sympathy to the prisoners and accepted joyfully the seizure of your property, knowing that you have for yourselves a better possession and a lasting one.
35 Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward.
36 For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised.  Hebrews 10:32-36

I`ve Learned Some Things Today

2007-04-14T00:01:00.000-05:00

(And, Unfortunately, So Has My Pre-Schooler)

I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.  Psalm 101:2

Today started like any other Saturday . . . I woke up with a miserable headache, had several t-shirts to print, my pre-schooler was hungry (ALL DAY), my ex-husband needed another favor, blah, blah, blah.  *smile*

So anyway, amidst all of these other fairly `usual` happenings, I had decided to call and cancel one of those crazy things that got added to my credit card simply because, when the salesperson called and gave me the garbley-gook, sales-pitch, I was so desperate to get off of the phone that I took the offer.  Well, I never received the `Welcome` package; however they have faithfully charged me $9.95 per month.  I decided that I`d had enough and needed to cancel it before it was due again this month!

Side note:  I have been working really hard to not take my frustration out on customer service reps, since usually it`s not their fault that I`m dissatisfied!

However . . .

Upon explaining to this girl that I wanted to cancel the service because I never received the information (as promised) and had no real clue what the service even was . . . she proceeded to tell me that she would be happy to cancel it, however, she was sure that I understood the `wonderful` benefits of this service, blah, blah, blah . . .

What?

Can you understand the words that are comin` out of my mouth?

NO! I had absolutely NO clue what the benefits were as I`d NEVER received the `Welcome` package!  -As promised!

So, she proceeds to tell me that if I have an internet connection I could easily look up the information on-line!

Hello?

I`m sorry!  I most definitely SHOULD NOT have to do this!  Basically, I paid for something and did not receive it!  Cancel the darn thing and quit charging my credit card $9.95 per month for NOTHING!

Obviously, she got upset that I still preferred to cancel the `service` and did not even remain on the line long enough for me to wish her a `great weekend`!  *cheesy smile*

Yes, I`m ranting a bit, and I DO apologize.  These blog posts aren`t usually set at this tone!  But honestly, it`s been a frustrating and enlightening day to say the least!

Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all.  I Timothy 4:15

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.  II Timothy 4:2

Right off the bat today, I found that I am learning to stick up for myself.  I refuse to basically get `jipped` out of money that we`ve worked very hard for!  (Money that I could use to buy Disney’s “Over the Hedge”!)

Well, anyway, a bit later in the day, I grabbed my pre-schooler and set off to the wonderful and always colorful trip to the garbage dump!  LOL

After which, we then proceeded to the grocery store.  (Well, after today, I will gladly drag garbage to the dump as to EVER go to the grocery store again!)

First of all, I realize that these stores can`t be held accountable for the behavior of their customers.  Got that!

And, it wasn`t bad enough that this one particular family was stretched the length of the entire `meat` section (prohibiting other customers from perusing the selection) and that every other word out of their mouths was a cuss word and spoken loudly at that.

Sadly, I`m growing accustomed to that junk in the parking lots, etc.  (I find it inexcusable, but it is everywhere and I have yet to figure out how to avoid it.  We`ve even had to listen to it at the dentist`s office!)

It wasn`t even the fact that I had to bag my own groceries because the `bagger` fellas were busy helping men bag their groceries.  Or even the fact that a customer entering the store confused me with an employee and asked ME where to find charcoal!  (That part is actually a bit funny and he DID apologize later!)

The kicker was this . . .

The customer in the next isle asked the cashier for a blow job!  WHAT?  Holy cow!  Right smack dab in front of my child, God and EVERYBODY!

I was so disgusted!  I blurted out, “There ARE children present!”  I could not even believe my ears!  I was so mad that I could have puked – right there!

This is the kind of trash talk that you`d expect to hear in a bar!

The worst part of all was when I realized that the cashier was NOT repulsed, NOT embarrassed, NOT even shaken by this!  She was `flirting` back with this man!  Ugh!

This just makes me so sick to even think about it!

Thus, I`ve learned something else about myself today!  I`m becoming a `prude`!

Once upon a time, I may not have even noticed this kind of talk.  Today, however, I find it reprehensible, repulsive, vile, disgusting, obnoxious and quite frankly, I think that cashier should be reprimanded!  In fact, I may never return to this store!

Gone is the day when customer service was courteous and respectful!

I may step on some toes with this post and if so, I am really sorry, but tough!  My children and I are forced to listen to discussions of drunken parties and happenings, sexual conduct and God knows what else, just to do something as mundane and essential as to buy groceries, cat food and sidewalk chalk!

Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.  Romans 12:17

If perhaps, I have made you mad, here are some suggestions:

• Don`t read my blog!  I am a Christian woman doing my best to raise my children as such – some might leak out in my blog!

• Watch what kind of garbage you spew out in public!

• Get right with God!

(I highly recommend the latter!)

1 “Now it shall be, if you diligently obey the LORD your God, being careful to do all His commandments which I command you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth.

2 “All these blessings will come upon you and overtake you if you obey the LORD your God:

3 “Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the country.

4 “Blessed shall be the offspring of your body and the produce of your ground and the offspring of your beasts, the increase of your herd and the young of your flock.

5 “Blessed shall be your basket and your kneading bowl.

6 “Blessed shall you be when you come in, and blessed shall you be when you go out.

7 “The LORD shall cause your enemies who rise up against you to be defeated before you; they will come out against you one way and will flee before you seven ways.

8 “The LORD will command the blessing upon you in your barns and in all that you put your hand to, and He will bless you in the land which the LORD your God gives you.

9 “The LORD will establish you as a holy people to Himself, as He swore to you, if you keep the commandments of the LORD your God and walk in His ways.

10 “So all the peoples of the earth will see that you are called by the name of the LORD, and they will be afraid of you.

11 “The LORD will make you abound in prosperity, in the offspring of your body and in the offspring of your beast and in the produce of your ground, in the land which the LORD swore to your fathers to give you.

12 “The LORD will open for you His good storehouse, the heavens, to give rain to your land in its season and to bless all the work of your hand; and you shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow.

13 “The LORD will make you the head and not the tail, and you only will be above, and you will not be underneath, if you listen to the commandments of the LORD your God, which I charge you today, to observe them carefully,

14 and do not turn aside from any of the words which I command you today, to the right or to the left, to go after other gods to serve them.  Deuteronomy 28:1-14

Tolerate, Forgive and Overcome

2007-04-11T00:01:00.000-05:00

Yowsers!  When I mentioned the recent tests of unconditional love, forgiveness and tolerance, little did I know I`d be practicing it ONE MORE time that very same day!  I found myself climbing out of a warm toasty bed and heading back on the road, driving 45 minutes, one-way to pick up my son early from visitation with his father because he was `abandoned` on Easter Sunday!  Geez!

I`ve got to be totally honest with you gals . . . I was ticked!  -To say the least!  These guys get very little time together as it is (Dad`s doing – not ours) and the one time they`ve had, one of few holidays they had together . . . and my ex decides to give someone else priority over his son?

How appropriate is it that the very same day this was all happening, Christians around the world were recognizing the crucifixion and celebrating the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ?

Some of the last words Jesus spoke on that cross were of forgiveness for his enemies, for people that were brutally attacking, taunting, robbing and disrespecting him!

But Jesus was saying, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.” And they cast lots, dividing up His garments among themselves.  Luke 23:34

Man, I wanted so badly to get angry, say nasty things, lash out, pick a fight – whatever it took to relieve the flesh of all this hostility!

What did I do?  Nothing!  -Well, nothing that surrendered to the flesh anyway!  I prayed!  And prayed!  The entire 45 minute drive, I prayed to my Lord and asked Him for help!  Help to forgive, overlook, tolerate and love my ex-husband, no matter how angry this most recent incident made me!

21 Then Peter came and said to Him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” 22 Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.  Matthew 18:21-22

The enemy kept attacking me though!  He tried and tried to stir up all the anger and bitterness!  But we can`t let him get away with that Sisters!  Keep praying and seeking God`s love . . . God`s forgiveness . . . God`s tolerance!  Through Christ, all things are possible!  Even loving, forgiving and tolerating those who wrong us!  Even those who wrong our children!

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.  Philippians 4:13

How interesting that the very same day I had spent in church learning of my Savior`s tolerance and forgiveness, should I be tested over and over again to do the same?

1 Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, 3 being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of  peace.  Ephesians 4:1-3

Obviously, we just can`t take on these struggles by ourselves!  We are just human beings, initially driven by the flesh, influenced by the world that we live in!

We have to overcome all this `junk` that surrounds us and fill our hearts, minds, bodies and spirits with God.  Everything about us should be filtered through the Holy Spirit!

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart. Be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer.  Psalm 19:12

Love Through the Eyes of the Lord

2007-04-09T00:01:00.000-05:00

1 If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing. 4 Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, 5 does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, 6 does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.  I Corinthians 13:1-7

After mentioning this in my last post, I thought I`d reflect on it a bit more.  I feel that God is dealing with me on this and I am seriously struggling with it!

Initially, when I mentioned this, little did I know that I would yet again be tested in this area over the weekend!  *wink*

First of all, I was compelled to invite my father to Easter Sunday service.  (Daddy  isn`t saved and another one of his brothers passed away this week.)  Although very fearful, I worked up the nerve and invited him.  (I even played the `how much do you love me` card!)  Needless to say, Dad shot me down!  I have since decided that I am old enough to quit vying for my Daddy`s love and respect and quit mulling over the disappointment and heartache of the past!  It is time to embark on a serious mission, pull out all the punches and do everything I can to minister to my Dad and help him find his way to Jesus Christ.  –The time for subtle pleasantries is over!

Second, I witnessed the display of some really sad behaviors over the weekend!  I saw children and adults do some pretty `unlovable` things!

So, I have to tell you some things the Lord is teaching me about myself and some things that I`m personally working very hard to overcome!

I realized that by getting angry, irritable, annoyed or whatever else - I am sinning!  Most importantly, I am judging these people.  I am evaluating, analyzing, observing and whatever other justification you can come up with AND I am judging!  Newsflash!  That`s a sin!

Therefore you have no excuse, everyone of you who passes judgment, for in that which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things.  Romans 2:1

I have no place to pass judgment on anyone or their actions.  I have to overlook the transgressions of the flesh (which none of us are above) and love through the eyes of God, love with a heart filled with the Holy Spirit!  Love the unlovable!

Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins.  I Peter 4:8

This is SO hard!  You think about how much you love your children . . . it`s SO easy to love them when they`re cuddly, kissin` & huggin` on you or when they are peacefully sleeping in their beds!  But it is SO hard to love them when they are screaming or throwing a miserable temper tantrum in the middle of the doctor`s office or the grocery store!  Amen?  But guess what?  We do it - don`t we?  It`s that unconditional love that we have for our children and that God has for us!  Praise God!

Well, here`s another newsflash!  We are supposed to love everyone that way!

17 `You shall not hate your fellow countryman in your heart; you may surely reprove your neighbor, but shall not incur sin because of him. 18 `You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the sons of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself; I am the LORD.  Leviticus 19:17-18

9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; 11 not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 12 rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, 13 contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality.  Romans 12:9-13

Do Not Give Up

2007-04-06T00:01:00.000-05:00

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.  Galatians 6:9

I read this verse for the very first time this week when it was part of a daily, inspirational e-mail I receive.  Very appropriate for me at this time!  (Isn`t God`s timing wonderful?)

The last few weeks have been very busy and tiring.

Jenna`s Team has become a mission that is very dear to my heart.  (Yes!  I am still talking about this and may do so for a very long time!)  Besides my public plea to the masses, I have been approaching businesses for sponsorship.  I have also been working with Jenna`s daddy to create t-shirts and hats for the team to wear at Walk America.  (We were so blessed as to be able to purchase the equipment and supplies in order to make the team matching hats!  Praise God!)

Also, I have been more involved in church and besides getting ready for the Easter Celebration; it is almost time for our annual Youth Group outreach.  I am going into it this year with the intent to pace myself!  (I am typically one of those types of people that shoots out of the gate at 150% and fizzles out near the end!)

Overall, it has been a very busy time and this can really cause the flesh to become weary.  Sometimes we even get frustrated or disheartened and want to give up!

In a conversation with my pastor, something very interesting came to light.  If we interact with people and only see them through eyes of flesh, we are bound to be disappointed!  People are people!  WE are people!  In our own capacity we will fail and so does everyone else!  However, if we see, hear, speak, love and DO everything by the grace of God, we will NOT fail!  We will succeed by the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit!

That is better than any diet supplement, vitamin pill or workout regime!  It is promised to us by God, it is guaranteed!  (For more than 30 days!) *wink*

11 Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. 12 I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. 13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.   Philippians 4:11-13

We are meant to do good, minister, reach out and glorify God!  Through Him it is possible and it comes naturally!  It rejuvenates us and most importantly it makes us fruitful!  Praise God!

Our people must also learn to engage in good deeds to meet pressing needs, so that they will not be unfruitful.  Titus 3:14

Generosity of Heart

2007-03-30T00:01:00.000-05:00

1 Praise the LORD!

How blessed is the man who fears the LORD,

Who greatly delights in His commandments.

2 His descendants will be mighty on earth;

The generation of the upright will be blessed.

3 Wealth and riches are in his house,

And his righteousness endures forever.

4 Light arises in the darkness for the upright;

He is gracious and compassionate and righteous.

5 It is well with the man who is gracious and lends;

He will maintain his cause in judgment.

6 For he will never be shaken;

The righteous will be remembered forever.

7 He will not fear evil tidings;

His heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.

8 His heart is upheld, he will not fear,

Until he looks with satisfaction on his adversaries.

9 He has given freely to the poor,

His righteousness endures forever;

His horn will be exalted in honor.

10 The wicked will see it and be vexed,

He will gnash his teeth and melt away;

The desire of the wicked will perish.   Psalm 112:1-10

Whew!  It has been really hard to dedicate time to the computer lately!  We have been on a quest to find a new car.  What an agonizing venture this is!  Something that should be so much fun is absolutely horrific!  Car dealers (most of the ones I`ve dealt with) have absolutely no concern or regard for their customers!  They just want to get you in whatever will generate the most commission for them!  Well, this search remains ongoing, but I`ll be sure to let you know how it turns out.

Also a very time consuming (but SO gratifying) task has been my new mission to generate sponsors for “Jenna`s Team”!  When I read Jenna`s story and learned of the trials and heartaches that this family has endured, I just felt that deep down sense of commitment to do `something`!!!

It`s been very disheartening for me to learn that most people don`t see it this way.  Although I sent out many, many requests for even just $1 donations, I found that wasn`t something that interested people!  (I mean all I could think was if a message board had 500 members and ½ of them donated $1, that would be $250 for the March of Dimes!  This wasn`t the case.)

On the other hand, I have to give a `hip hip hooray` to the few internet gals that stepped up, the ladies at the dentist`s office, the employees at Mom`s work, the American Legion and to my church.  When presented with the opportunity to do something good, kind and generous, we found people digging for every penny they had on them or even doubling the requested donations!  Whoo Hoo!  You guys rock!

This leads me to my thought for this weekend.  GENEROSITY

The generous man will be prosperous, And he who waters will himself be watered.  Proverbs 11:25

There are a lot of ways that we can be generous.  Besides monetary donations or contributions, we can give of our time, energy, talents, etc.  Quite frankly, it is Christ-like to be generous and giving! I also feel that if you have Jesus Christ in your heart, it comes naturally!

17 Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. 18 Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, 19 storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed.  I Timothy 6:17-19

We are all so very different and have many different talents and abilities.  It`s important that we utilize these talents and share ourselves, (even if that means opening our wallets sometimes) ultimately glorifying God and spreading His Word!  It`s important for each and every one of us to step up and do whatever we possibly can!  There are so many hurting and struggling people out there.  Think about people that have had a positive impact on your life . . . a preacher, a teacher, a friend . . . what if they had stifled their gifts?  What if they hadn`t reached out to you?  Where would YOU be?  Personally, I shudder to think about it!

1 Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. 3 For through the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith. 4 For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, 5 so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. 6 Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; 7 if service, in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching; 8 or he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. 9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; 11 not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 12 rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, 13 contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. 16 Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation. 17 Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. 19 Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,” says the Lord. 20 “BUT IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM, AND IF HE IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.  Romans 12:1-21

Step out!  Have faith in God`s plan for you!  Someone out there needs you!  *wink*

Look Left, Look Right & Praise God!

2007-03-27T00:01:00.000-05:00

Do you ever hear people tell those eerie stories about how they`re trying to get somewhere but the kids weren`t listening, things weren`t going well and they were ready to pull their hair out because they were going to be late?  But. . . had they been on time, they`d have been involved in a terrible accident?

Let me tell `ya sister . . . it is totally freaky!  I`m here to tell `ya about it!

There wasn`t anything particularly unique about this Monday morning, the birds were singing and the sun was peaking in . . . pretty usual.  Little did I know, that THIS Monday would evolve to be one of the most blessed and favored days of mine and my children`s lives!

A good man will obtain favor from the LORD,  Proverbs 12:2

The day started by our noticing in the newspaper that friends of ours not only acknowledged a donation my company made to them, but they did so in such a way that would give maximum exposure!  Very cool gesture guys!  Thanks!

So far, the day is off to a great start!

A bit later, as I proceeded to get my kids together to go BACK to the dentist, one got ready while the other totally drug his feet and did everything under the sun to slow us down!  I remember thinking “Man, my day started off well, but it`s taking a turn for the worst!”

Little did I realize that this was God`s way of protecting my day, my children and me!  Not only was He preventing us from having a much worse day, He made it even better still!

After traveling about 15 minutes into our 45 minute drive, we were detoured.  We didn`t really know why or what was going on.  Only that all traffic was being re-routed onto this twisty-turny, narrow, dirt road!

We arrived at the dentist`s office and as I proceeded to beg them to take my son, I found out that the appointment after us had cancelled.  Thus, allowing my son to not only get the rest of his own appointment, but the next 30 minute slot as well!  Praise God!  (When you are talking a 45 minute drive one way, with an onslaught of dentist appointments in your future ~ the more time the better!)

I was also informed that the detour was due to an accident and that it had involved a school bus!  Well, suddenly, all I could think about was that someone`s kids were on that bus!  I proceeded to pray and pray for those kids, families and the bus driver!

It wasn`t until later in the day that it was clarified.  There was not a school bus involved, but rather two coal trucks.  They collided head on, damaged a bridge and spewed coal and ash all over the road.  (Which took over 7 hours to clean up!)  One driver was injured, but not badly.

Had we been on time this morning, we very easily could have been involved in that accident!

The fact still remains Sisters, no matter how bad something seems, no matter how late we are running or how out of hand things seem, God IS in control!  He has a plan and He has a time!

`For I know the plans that I have for you,` declares the LORD, `plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.`  Jeremiah 29:11

He has the power to take something the enemy means for harm and turn it into something wonderful!

“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive.  Genesis 50:20

Stop rushing!  Stop being compulsive or forceful!  Trust God!  Give problems, situations and circumstances up to Him!  Unlike you and me, He is qualified to carry the weight of the world on His shoulders!

Jenna’s Team

2007-03-20T00:01:00.000-05:00

As some of you may or may not know, I am the owner of Personalways™, an on-line gift shop dedicated to personalized photo gifts.

This is NOT an advertising campaign or a sales ploy, but a request for your help!

Every so often, I am blessed by the opportunity to help people.

Currently, we are working hard to put together team shirts for “Jenna’s Team”.

Jenna’s Mommy (Jennifer) and Daddy (John) never really got to ‘meet’ Jenna, as she was still born at 8 ½ months.

It’s a heartbreaking story. (I cried the whole way through!) You are welcome to read it here: www.johnabone.com

By the way, her daddy is an awesome photographer!

Please, join us in supporting Jenna’s Team!

Visit Jenna’s page on the Personalways™ website, where you can sponsor Jenna’s Team securely via Pay Pal:

Jenna’s Team at Personalways™

Or, you may sponsor Jenna’s Team directly via the March of Dimes website:

Jenna’s Team at Walk America

If every reader that visits my blog, through April 21st, donates just $1, Jenna’s Team would raise hundreds of dollars for the March of Dimes!

Please search your heart and donate generously! Each of us really can make a difference in the fight against still births, premature births and birth defects!

Thank you so much!

Gim’me Somethin’ to Believe In!

2007-03-16T00:01:00.000-05:00

Everyone just wants something to believe in ~ don`t they?  Everyone needs somewhere to belong and feel safe!  This issue came up in conversation several times yesterday and I felt compelled to `investigate`.

History is repeating itself as I watch my teenage son, attempt to distinguish himself, find a place to belong and to be accepted.  It seems like mo matter how much we love our kids unconditionally; they continue to want for something more!  They need their friends to accept them . . . they need to be accepted by the opposite gender . . . they need their teacher`s approval . . . it`s endless!  *smile*

In reality, most adults are no different!  We need our bosses, co-workers, social groups, etc. to `like` us!

Do you remember when you were an unbeliever and you roamed around always empty?  No matter how many friends you had, how much money you made, how much you exercised ~ there was still something missing?

I distinctly remember hearing the religious icons talk about this!  They would consistently try to impress the need for God in our lives!  (I often chuckle at how silly it all sounded then!)  But it is SO real!

And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him. Hebrews 11:6

Why is it that so many people deny the existence of God?  They refuse to believe that He loves them and is willing to forgive them of all their sins!

1 “Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. 2 “In My Father`s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. 3 “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also. 4 “And you know the way where I am going.” 5 Thomas said to Him, “Lord, we do not know where You are going, how do we know the way?” 6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.  John 14:1-6

be•lieve

to have confidence in the truth, the existence, or the reliability of something, although without absolute proof that one is right in doing so

Why?  Why is it so hard for people to believe in God?

Is it a trust issue?  Do they not trust the Word of God?

It could be guilt!  Yes!  Guilt is good.  I mean it`s a huge struggle to forgive yourself!  If you are fortunate enough to forgive yourself and believe that God has forgiven you, there is always somebody in this world that is more than happy to remind you of what a failure you are!

Is it pride?  Maybe they`re too proud to admit they need anyone else ~ including God?

Doubt?  That`s another huge issue!  If we aren`t proud, we lack self-confidence to do very much of anything!

OH!  I know!  They`re having too much fun drinking themselves silly and doing so many drugs that their bodies are dying from the inside out!  Then there`s the premarital/extramarital sex with dozens of people they don`t know (or know anything about)!  OOH!  Gambling!  That`s a good one!  It`s a real rush to gamble your paycheck away and not be able to pay your bills!

You might wonder where all that came from!  Well, because I know!  First hand!  I was completely throwing my life away!

What changed all that?  Believing in something!  REALLY believing in God!  Completely and totally believing that He loves me ~ unconditionally!

13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life. 14 This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 15 And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him. I John 5:13-15

Praise God!

SPECIAL NOTE:Above I mentioned 5 different reasons why we might find it difficult to believe:  Trust Issues, Guilt, Pride, Doubt & Selfishness.  These are all huge pitfalls, especially for us single moms who often lack the Earthly support system we desperately need.  Shoot, I know a lot of married moms struggling with these same topics!  Next week, I want to research each topic individually and see if we can`t understand them a little better!

Best wishes for a weekend full of God`s love!

Unforgiven?

2007-03-15T00:01:00.000-05:00

Wasn`t that the name of a movie?  With Clint Eastwood?  Isn`t he handsome?  He just becomes more distinguished with age!  Don`t `ya think?

Well, that kind of leads into my next thought which is the `Magic Eraser` by Mr. Clean.  *smile*  Have you ever used one of those things?  They are awesome!  They remove crayon, pencil and all sorts of things from your walls, the fridge, the stove ~ everywhere!

You know what`s really cool?  We all have the greatest `Magic Eraser` of all!  It`s the blood of Jesus Christ!  It washes away all of our sins!

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.  I John 1:9

But a lot of us continue to condemn ourselves anyway!  Why do we think that OUR sins are unforgivable?

Personally, I`ve been dealing with my own sense of condemnation.  It probably doesn`t even make sense to anyone else!

I have been spending a lot of time reading my Bible, learning and growing closer to God.  (I really enjoy it.)

The enemy constantly struggles to put a wedge between me and my salvation!  Some people might say that we give him too much credit.  Honestly, I don`t think that we give him enough!  He is a vengeful and spiteful creature!  He does NOT want anyone to find salvation, much less hold on to it!  And he certainly does NOT want people out there glorifying the Father!  He will resort to any means necessary to destroy us!

So, as I continue to study the Word of God I learn so much about sin.  I learn a lot about myself as well!  The enemy actually uses all this knowledge and continues to attack me.  I begin to feel guilty and condemned about sins from the past.    (He`s so desperate in his attacks against God`s people!)

“FOR I WILL BE MERCIFUL TO THEIR INIQUITIES, AND I WILL REMEMBER THEIR SINS NO MORE.”  Hebrews 8:12

He WILL BE merciful!  He will remember our sins NO MORE!

If the King of Kings, Lord of Lords will remember our sins NO MORE, why on Earth are we hanging on to them?

These verses don`t say `some of our sins`!  They don`t say that He`ll forgive our sins sometimes or when He feels like it.  They say that He will cleanse us from ALL unrighteousness!

27 Then hear in heaven and forgive the sin of Your servants and Your people Israel, indeed, teach them the good way in which they should walk. And send rain on Your land which You have given to Your people for an inheritance. 28 “If there is famine in the land, if there is pestilence, if there is blight or mildew, if there is locust or grasshopper, if their enemies besiege them in the land of their cities, whatever plague or whatever sickness there is, 29 whatever prayer or supplication is made by any man or by all Your people Israel, each knowing his own affliction and his own pain, and spreading his hands toward this house, 30 then hear from heaven Your dwelling place, and forgive, and render to each according to all his ways, whose heart You know for You alone know the hearts of the sons of men.  II Chronicles 6:27-30

He knows your heart!  He knows everything about you!  (He has since before you were born!)

Remember growing up, you may have waited until Mom or Dad was in a `good mood` to ask for something?  It`s nothing like that with God!

All you have to do is ask!

Go to our Heavenly Father and repent your sins!

YOU WILL BE FORGIVEN!

The Power of Prayer

2007-03-14T00:01:00.000-05:00

"Again I say to you, that if two of you agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven.”  Matthew 18:19

Do you feel guilty for asking people to pray for you or your family or friends?  Do you hesitate when the pastor calls for prayer requests?  Why is that I wonder?

I think most of us have trouble asking for prayer.  Does it make us feel weak?  Like a burden of some sort?

Lately, it seems like I`ve requested so many prayers and there are still so many more needs!  I have church friends that are suffering, people my Mom knows at work, and then there are my family`s needs!

But as for me, my prayer is to You, O LORD, at an acceptable time; O God, in the greatness of Your lovingkindness, Answer me with Your saving truth.Psalm69:13

Personally, I think that prayer is SO important.

2 Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving; 3 praying at the same time for us as well, that God will open up to us a door for the word, so that we may speak forth the mystery of Christ, for which I have also been imprisoned; 4 that I may make it clear in the way I ought to speak. 5 Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. 6 Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.  Colossians 4:2-6

I wonder how often we speak with our Earthly parents?  Before my mother moved in with us, I know I talked to her daily.  Sometimes 3 or 4 times a day!  She was apprised of all of the happenings in our lives!  In fact, if I didn`t get to talk with her for some reason, I felt an emptiness!  How many of us even miss God when we `don`t get to speak with Him`?

Throughout the day I spend time with God, including Him in the day-to-day activities, thanking Him for something or asking Him for clarity, patience or tolerance.  Often, I will address prayer requests right away instead of waiting for my nighttime `chat` with Him!  *wink*

My evening prayer time is such a special time for me.  This is when I talk with my best friend!  I thank God for all that He`s doing in my life, all that He`s done and all the He`ll do!  We talk about the day, my children, my family, my church family, my internet family, current events, prayer requests ~ really lots of different things.  Often, after I`ve finished my `main` prayer, if it`s been a particularly trying day or if there are some particularly serious prayer requests, I will just lie there in bed and talk to God until I fall asleep.

With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints.  Ephesians 6:18

Prayer can be a very simple way to minister to someone too.  I think that if you truly pray like you claim, when you tell someone in need that your prayers are with them or that you`ll pray for their needs ~ they know it ~ deep down inside!  Even people who won`t admit their belief in God, or pray themselves, they know that with your prayers, things can improve ~ it gives them hope and reassurance!

"But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word."  Acts 6:4

There is so much going on in this world today.  Look at your own trials and struggles!  Some people may only have a few of the problems you do, but so many have more than most people can even imagine ~ let alone cope with!

Ask for Prayer!  Pray!  It`s our connection to our Heavenly Father until it`s time to go home!

There IS Rest for the Weary

2007-03-12T00:01:00.000-05:00

Some time ago, I did a post on weariness . . .

I hate to admit it, but I get so tired and so often!  In fact, last night, I managed to sleep from 7:30 pm (when I put my youngest down for bed) until 8:30 am.  The only reason I got up then, was to get ready for church!  *smile*

Anyway, that is 12 hours! (Daylight Savings Time)  Normally, I only sleep 5 – 6 hours.  Once my kids are in bed, I usually get this miraculous `2nd wind` and I use the time to read, study the Bible, pray, watch TV, socialize or whatever I can get in before I collapse!

It`s so easy to get caught up with everything.  We are overcome by all of the stress and the demands of the world and of the flesh!

Galatians 6

8 For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.

9 Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.

10 So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.

I actually came across these verses while doing something else and that little light bulb in my head went off!  *wink*

It doesn`t get clearer than that!  When we serve the flesh and the demands of the world, we will only reap corruption!  When we serve the Lord and sow in the Spirit, we will reap eternal life!

DO NOT lose heart when you are doing good!  In due time you will reap!  Keep your eye on the prize!  God is at the finish line just waiting to reward you with His trophy!

Do good to ALL people!  ESPECIALLY those of the household of the faith!  My goodness!  Encourage and inspire your brothers and sisters in Christ!  Don`t criticize and condemn them!  Don`t take on a superior or condescending attitude!

What an awesome comfort!  When I feel weary, overwhelmed, sad, lonely, distraught, disheartened . . . I rest in the knowledge and comfort that I am sowing the seeds for a harvest in the eternal life my Heavenly Father has promised ~ I get a 2nd wind!

Praise God!

ALL Things are Possible!

2007-03-09T00:01:00.000-05:00

Some days I get a little writer`s block and really don`t know what to blog about.  It`s pretty weird actually, because just when I think I may need to skip a day . . . the good Lord drops something into my lap and instantly my brain clicks and I think “That`s IT!”  *smile*

So this morning, I was taking my oldest to school and making the wonderful trip to drop off garbage (ours isn`t picked up) and it is just a beautiful day here ~ although it is absolutely freezing.  (Considering yesterday I shoveled snow with no hat and no gloves and barely needed a coat.)  Today is a completely different story.  It is very cold, you need gloves, and a hat wouldn`t hurt!  Regardless, the sun is shining and life is good!

My mom is off from work today, so my little guy got to stay home and play.  (Grocery store and play dough!)  I was driving up the road alone.  (A rare but wonderful time for a Mom!)  As I was listening to some great Christian music on a local radio station, singing along, I got to thinking about my absolutely favorite Bible verse:

I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.  Philippians 4:13

You know, this verse says ALL things!  It doesn`t say that things won`t come.  It doesn`t say that when they do they will be easy.  But it does say (promise) that ALL things are possible through Him!  He strengthens me!

Praise God!

I get very overwhelmed, very stressed out over a LOT of things and often!  I`ve always been this way.  I got to thinking about times when I really should have enjoyed my life, my children, where we were or what we were doing ~ all I can remember is getting stressed out or upset about something.

Many different songs played on the radio while I was in the car this morning.  One of them was about living your life like you might if you knew you were dying or if you had a second chance!

Well, basically, we never know when our last day might be.  Every single day is a blessed gift from God!  Our children are very precious gifts!  God hand selected each of us to be the mother`s of the children we have!  They may not be perfect, they may have some really bad habits – but they are ours!  God would never have given them to us if He didn`t trust us to raise them!  (Remember, He loves them even more than we do!)

Our circumstances?  Well, we all have different issues to deal with.  There are different people in our lives that we struggle to be kind to!  But the nuts and bolts of the whole thing is . . .  we can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens us!

ALL . . . ALL . . . ALL!!!

A few definitions of `all`:

• the greatest possible
• every
• the whole quantity or amount
• everything
• wholly; entirely; completely

Our God is good!  He is greater than any problem, issue or person that we face!  We just have to trust Him, believe in Him and give it all up to Him.

For me, this is still a conscious decision I have to make.  Sometimes it is a lot easier than others.  But once you do it, the relief and peace you feel is amazing!  I guess you might even compare it to taking out the trash.  *wink*  When I get all that `junk` bagged up and hauled off, I feel a sense of relief and cleanliness.  `Bagging` up the weight of this world and handing it off to God is a relief that is almost indescribable!

For the weekend, I`m going to leave you with the remainder of Philippians.  Enjoy!

May God bless you in ALL that you do!

Philippians

Think of Excellence

1 Therefore, my beloved brethren whom I long to see, my joy and crown, in this way stand firm in the Lord, my beloved. 2 I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to live in harmony in the Lord. 3 Indeed, true companion, I ask you also to help these women who have shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel, together with Clement also and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life. 4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! 5 Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. 6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. 9 The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.   Philippians 4:1~9

God`s Provisions

10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned before, but you lacked opportunity. 11 Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. 12 I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. 13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. 14 Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my affliction. 15 You yourselves also know, Philippians, that at the first preaching of the gospel, after I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving but you alone; 16 for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs. 17 Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account. 18 But I have received everything in full and have an abundance; I am amply supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you have sent, a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well~pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen. 21 Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren who are with me greet you. 22 All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar`s household. 23 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.  Philippians 4:10~23

HOPE ~ God’s Invaluable Natural Resource

2007-03-08T00:01:00.000-05:00

hope

1. the feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best.
2. a particular instance of this feeling.
3. grounds for this feeling in a particular instance.
4. a person or thing in which expectations are centered.
5. something that is hoped for.
6. to look forward to with desire and reasonable confidence.
7. to believe, desire, or trust.
8. to feel that something desired may happen.
9. Archaic. to place trust; rely.
10. hope against hope, to continue to hope, although the outlook does not warrant it.

Better Things for You

Hebrews 6

9 But, beloved, we are convinced of better things concerning you, and things that accompany salvation, though we are speaking in this way. 10 For God is not unjust so as to forget your work and the love which you have shown toward His name, in having ministered and in still ministering to the saints. 11 And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end, 12 so that you will not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. 13 For when God made the promise to Abraham, since He could swear by no one greater, He swore by Himself, 14 saying, “I WILL SURELY BLESS YOU AND I WILL SURELY MULTIPLY YOU.” 15 And so, having patiently waited, he obtained the promise. 16 For men swear by one greater than themselves, and with them an oath given as confirmation is an end of every dispute. 17 In the same way God, desiring even more to show to the heirs of the promise the unchangeableness of His purpose, interposed with an oath, 18 so that by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have taken refuge would have strong encouragement to take hold of the hope set before us. 19 This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil, 20 where Jesus has entered as a forerunner for us, having become a high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.

`those who through faith and patience inherit the promises` . . . `I will surely bless you and I will surely multiply you` . . . `it is impossible for God to lie`  Neato!

God`s promises are so good and the Bible says that it is IMPOSSIBLE for God to lie!

In the hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised long ages ago.  Titus 1:2

It seems like a lot of the things you purchase these days are faulty.  Toys break, electronics don`t work properly, clothing wears easily or falls apart . . .  Warrantees run out just as something does break or 100% satisfaction guarantees mean very little.

Luckily for us, God`s promises are good.  They are guaranteed!  We can easily trust and believe in the Lord.  We can have faith and hope for better things!

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.  Romans 15:13

I have often said that one of the greatest gifts God blessed me with when I turned my life over to Him was hope!  Because of the faith I have in the Lord, the faith I have in His Word and promises, the faith I have in his mercy and favor, I can have hope for a secure future in Him!

“Then you would trust, because there is hope; And you would look around and rest securely.   Job 11:18

Hope can motivate you.  If you have hope, you have dreams!  You envision a better future!  There is so much potential and possibility in a future full of hope!

The hope of the righteous is gladness, But the expectation of the wicked perishes.  Proverbs 10:28

Tribulation will come and there will be all sorts of trials and defeats, but the true promises of the Lord allow hope for a way through them.

Rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer.  Romans 12:12

God also promises us that if we stand by His word and remain faithful that He will restore double!  That means that every time you`ve been dealt an injustice, God is keeping track!  He will not only restore you once, but double!  Praise God!

Return to the stronghold, O prisoners who have the hope; This very day I am declaring that I will restore double to you.  Zechariah 9:12

With Him is ABUNDANT redemption!

O Israel, hope in the LORD; For with the LORD there is lovingkindness, And with Him is abundant redemption.  Psalm 130:7

a•bun•dant

1. present in great quantity; more than adequate; oversufficient
2. well supplied; abounding
3. richly supplied

Amen!

Thanksgiving ~ Thanks In Advance

2007-03-07T00:01:00.000-05:00

When you write a letter of request, often times, you will close it with something like “thank you in advance”.

My question today is why not thank God `in advance`?  He`s good for it, right?  His promises are guaranteed!

Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God.  Psalm 50:23

We really have so much to be thankful for.  Some days it can take a bit of effort, but it`s very important that we realize just how fortunate we are.

And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing.  Psalm 107:22

That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works.  Psalm 26:7

Early on in my fight against my depression, I decided to begin my prayer time with my `thankfuls`!

Sing unto the LORD with thanksgiving; sing praise upon the harp unto our God.  Psalm 147:7

Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.  Psalm 95:2

I start out really simple, like, `thank you Lord for another day` . . .  if it was a beautiful day, I thank Him for that.  If it was a particularly yucky day, then I thank Him that I work from home and didn`t have to travel in the muck!  I take time to thank Him for my children, their health, their safety . . . do you realize how many mommas out there spend every day of their lives fighting for their children`s health?  (What are we doing complaining because our 3-year old just spilled milk on the bed?  Or ran off to play post office with the bills we just prepared to mail?)

I`ve found over the years that not only has the `thankfuls` list become easier to recite, but it has become longer!  Praise God!  He is so wonderful!

From them will proceed thanksgiving And the voice of those who celebrate; And I will multiply them and they will not be diminished; I will also honor them and they will not be insignificant.   Jeremiah 30:19

It`s really important to thank God for the goodness He has placed into your life. It`s also important to believe for more and thank Him in advance!  Thank Him now that your aches and pains are healed, thank Him now that your children will get good grades and grow up to be loving, kind, considerate, influential adults.  Thank Him for grandma`s recovery and the new home you know your family needs to find.  Thank Him for a good job or the ability to work from home and be there for your children!  Thank Him for good friends and companionship!

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  Philippians 4:6

This is positive and proactive behavior that will cause for a wonderful and blessed future, for health, safety, success, prosperity and most magnificent of all His almighty favor!  Thank God in advance!  He IS good for it!  Amen!

Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.  Revelation 7:12

History Day Project

2007-03-06T00:01:00.000-05:00

How often do our kids tell us that we don`t appreciate them or tell them how terrific they are?

Well, I just have to say that my son is totally awesome.  He is extremely smart and kind-hearted and I`m so darn proud of him, I could burst!  *smile*

For a History Day project, his class was given their choice of a tragedy or triumph in history to research and learn more about.  Afterwards, they had to do a presentation on it.

He and two friends chose to learn more about the Columbine High School Massacre.  Josh said that although he really wanted to learn more about it, he now knows more than he ever wanted to.

I`ve seen him in his room in tears many times over the last week.  When asked about it, he simply says “This is SO messed up!”  “How?”  Why?”  I think deep down, he was hoping to understand it better!  But like everyone else, he`s just left with more questions!

Here are some excerpts from the presentation:

We can never know for sure what drove them to this. We never will know what went through their heads. Theories have been made that they were bullied, videogames are to blame, depression, racism, and more. We do know their passionate hate for society and that they were driven to violence and eventually suicide. This might be a world filled with evil but death isn`t the answer.

The Columbine massacre has done many things, yes it was a tragedy and what happened can`t be changed but maybe it can be prevented from ever happening again. Schools have started anti – bulling rules and regulations and started to follow zero – tolerance rules. It also started gun control laws. We can`t imagine how the family and friends of the students who lost their lives feel, we should learn something and do something about it and not let the people who lost their lives die in vain.

Unbeknownst to me, these projects are similar to those of science fair projects.  Josh and his friends will be competing against other projects in the school and the winning presentations compete in county, state and national competitions.  Whoo Hoo!

When tragedies such as the Columbine High School Massacre happen, we tend to burry our heads in the sand because they don`t affect us.

Being on-line I have the opportunity to meet people all over the country and even the world.  It all becomes a little more real and `close`!  I just can`t even imagine how these parents and families must have felt or how they`re feeling now!  We send our children to school where they should be safe to learn and to be kids.  But that isn`t always the case!

Of all the `junk` that we face every day, I think it`s important to put it all into perspective!

Loving, encouraging and teaching our kids is so important!

20 My son, keep thy father`s commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother: 21 Bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck. 22 When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee.  Proverbs 6:20-22

Nurturing them and `molding` them to be great adults is the most important responsibility we have!

Train up a child in the way he should go, Even when he is old he will not depart from it.  Proverbs 22:6

The people they `grow up` to be will affect many generations to come!

18 “You shall therefore impress these words of mine on your heart and on your soul; and you shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. 19 “You shall teach them to your sons, talking of them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road and when you lie down and when you rise up. 20 “You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates, 21 so that your days and the days of your sons may be multiplied on the land which the LORD swore to your fathers to give them, as long as the heavens remain above the earth. 22 “For if you are careful to keep all this commandment which I am commanding you to do, to love the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways and hold fast to Him, 23 then the LORD will drive out all these nations from before you, and you will dispossess nations greater and mightier than you. 24 “Every place on which the sole of your foot treads shall be yours; your border will be from the wilderness to Lebanon, and from the river, the river Euphrates, as far as the western sea. 25 “No man will be able to stand before you; the LORD your God will lay the dread of you and the fear of you on all the land on which you set foot, as He has spoken to you. 26 “See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse: 27 the blessing, if you listen to the commandments of the LORD your God, which I am commanding you today; 28 and the curse, if you do not listen to the commandments of the LORD your God, but turn aside from the way which I am commanding you today, by following other gods which you have not known.  Deuteronomy 11:18-28

Fight the Good Fight

2007-03-05T00:01:00.000-05:00

There is just so much that bombards our every day lives and it never seems to stop.  We wake up with a migraine, get stuck in traffic, someone is rude to us at the grocery store . . . I mean, trivial stuff to just sit and read it . . . but when you have a day filled with it . . . it can become too much.

Have you ever had one of those days where you fix the kids` cereal and end up spilling it all over the floor (the one you finally mopped the day before)?  Or, you rush to do a load of laundry only to spill the soap powder all over the laundry room floor?  I do this stuff all the time.  Some days though, it is enough to drive a person plum crazy!

Add in those days where your pre-schooler, whom you love desperately, hangs on your `mouse` arm while you are trying diligently to work, refuses adamantly to take a nap and then for some obscure reason, manages to stay awake until 10:00 pm.  Meanwhile, you have lost your mind ~ a few times!  *smile*

There really is hope for us girls!

Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.  James 1:12

It is so refreshing to step back and take time with God.  Take time to pray. (Wherever you can manage it!)  Give your concerns, frustrations, and fears all up to Him.  He promises us a `crown of life` just for loving Him!  How easy is that?

But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does.   James 1:25

Don`t become so consumed by all this other `junk`, the distractions in life, that you become a `forgetful hearer`!  Be an `effectual doer`!  If you do, God promises that you will be blessed in what you do!  That means everything!  (Even the dishes and the laundry!)

I heard a preacher once talk about remembering to pray before you do the most simple task.  For example, you are looking for your car keys . . . say a little prayer!  Ask the Lord to help you find them quickly and without frustration!  I have actually started to do this and I have to tell you, it makes a world of difference!

That thou mayest love the LORD thy God, and that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto him: for he is thy life, and the length of thy days: that thou mayest dwell in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them.  Deuteronomy 30:20

He really just wants to be included in everything!  He loves us so much!  He wants us to love Him enough to remember Him and think of Him ~ always!

"Only be very careful to observe the commandment and the law which Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, to love the LORD your God and walk in all His ways and keep His commandments and hold fast to Him and serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul."   Joshua 22:5

That says with ALL your heart and ALL your soul!  To me, that is such a deep down, through and through conviction and love that it can`t even be described in words!  It is something you `feel`!

I have been defeated and hopeless!  I have been weary and depressed!  I can tell you this first hand . . . there is only ONE answer!

Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.  John 14:6

It’s a Party!

2007-03-02T00:01:00.000-05:00

I’m still new to blogging and what better way to make new friends than a party?

There is a nifty little party going on March 2nd – 9th at: 5 Minutes for Mom

Hope to see you there!

Is THAT Really Good Enough?

2007-03-01T00:01:00.000-05:00

What in the world is `that` anyway?  People always say “that`s good enough”!

When I was married, I used to hear the phrase “that`s good enough“ quite a bit.  (At that point in his life, my ex-husband thought and said it ALL the time - he just did what he HAD to in order to get by.)

It used to drive me crazy!  So much so in fact, that after my divorce, I chose to pursue a life exactly the opposite.  I chose to strive for more of everything!  (This really wasn`t hard as I had always been considered an overachiever.)

There is nothing we should tackle in this life that we stop and say “that`s good enough”.  Go all-out!  Reach above and beyond the normal or the expected!  Don`t be average.  This applies to our parenting, our relationships, our education, our business, and especially our relationship with our Heavenly Father!  Always strive to know Him better!

1 Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. 3 For through the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith. 4 For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, 5 so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. 6 Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; 7 if service, in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching; 8 or he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. 9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; 11 not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 12 rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, 13 contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. 16 Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation. 17 Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. 19 Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,” says the Lord. 20 “BUT IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM, AND IF HE IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.  Romans 12:1-21

Don`t settle for the mundane or the mediocre!  God created us to be excellent, exceptional, successful, profitable, victorious, conquerors!

Go for it!  (Whatever IT is!) *smile*

Feeling Defeated

2007-02-28T00:01:00.000-05:00

Have you ever had so much that you just couldn`t take one more minute?

After a very rough weekend, Monday was just about the last straw!  In fact, it was the first time in a very LONG time that I felt hopeless!  I cried and cried to God, most of the day, asking why was I here?  Why was it all so hard?  Why me?  Why God why?

This weekend has been one of the loneliest, saddest, most defeated times of my life.  I think when you feel like your own children don`t like you very much . . . you figure WHY ANYTHING?

I mean, our children are the only REAL reason(s) any of us push through the bad stuff!

My teenager had informed me that I`m never nice to him and all I ever do is yell at him.  (SO not true!)  I am always encouraging him and telling him how proud I am of him.  What a wonderful kid, son, brother, grandson, friend, etc. that he is.  (But he`s a teenager!)

My pre-schooler had resorted to screaming, kicking and hitting to get his way.  And I have no idea where he`s picked up the phrase `stupid Mommy`!  (Uplifing!)  I felt like I was in one of those crazy reality nanny shows where they show you the most horrible, spoiled children you could imagine!

This is the hardest part about being a single parent.  We have to wear so many hats.  We`re Mom, Dad, breadwinner, peacekeeper, disciplinarian . . .  I feel like I never get to be `Christina` or even a `woman` or a `friend`.  ~ I`m always `on duty`!  *smile*

I am so tired, sad, lonely ~ it is very defeating and the enemy knows this.  I could go over this and over this every single day for the rest of my life and it will never make it any easier to cope with for me or you or anyone!

Funny thing is, if you go to God, if you go to His Word, you WILL find the answers you seek!

2 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4 And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. 5 But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, 8 being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.  James 1:2-8

I wrestled with whether or not to write and post this blog . . . I generally like to be a bit more uplifting and hopeful!  *wink*

Thing is, each one of us needs to know we aren`t alone.  If we know that someone else struggles with the same trials that we do, then it makes it a bit easier!  We tend to feel like there really is hope.

I`m getting through it!  It`s a `phase`!  It`s an attack by the enemy to bring me to my knees!  I refuse to allow this!  I refuse to give in to the attacks!  I have prayed and prayed.  I have prayed over my children.  I`ve prayed for clarity!  I have prayed for His supernatural protection from the attacks!  And I will continue to pray!  I will NOT give up!

12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. 13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. 14 But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. 15 Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death. 16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow. 18 In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures. 19 This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; 20 for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God. 21 Therefore, putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls. 22 But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; 24 for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. 25 But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does. 26 If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man`s religion is worthless. 27 Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.  James 1:12-27

Sisters, just like Lynn Anderson sings:

”I beg your pardon

I never promised you a rose garden

Along with the sunshine

There`s gotta be a little rain some time

When you take you gotta give so live and let live

Or let go . . .”

I CAN promise you this, even when it seems as though no one in this world cares how you feel or how sad you are, or what you do or don`t do . . . God cares!  He is an Almighty, Awesome, and Healing Father.  He too wears many hats and He can be whatever you need Him to be.  ~Whether it be a Father, a Friend, a Brother ~ He is there for us!  EVERY TIME!  He never leaves us or forsakes us!

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.  Psalm 23:4

Now, as I pass through this particular valley, I would like to send praises to my Father for once again bringing me through.

As my week has progressed a few things have happened:

My teenager and I had a nice long talk Monday evening about `life` and it was a healing, eye-opening experience for both of us.  He really is a wonderful kid and so full of potential and possibilities!  I know God has a wonderful plan for His life.

Thanks to some good advice and some time off from work (I love working from home), I am not only putting my new schedule (YES!  The one I`ve been working on for weeks!) into effect, but I am utilizing the `time-out` tactic.  I can report, that this is working like a gem so far.  We will see the true effects after a full week or two.

Praise God!  He is always there!  ~Just like He promises!

2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord; 3 seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. 4 For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust. 5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, 6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, 7 and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these qualities is blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his purification from his former sins. 10 Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you; for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble; 11 for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you.  II Peter 1:2-11

Judge & Jury

2007-02-27T00:01:00.000-05:00

We’ve all heard the expression ‘judge and jury’. Right? It means that some people are so arrogant, that not only do they ‘try’ you for faults and sins, but they ‘convict’ you as well.

Critical people, or those that criticize, are judging, even faultfinding. They criticize (or judge) your way of life, how you fix your hair or wear your make-up, how you raise your children . . . People deem it necessary to criticize you for just about anything they can think of. (It has become so popular in fact, perhaps they should include this as a new sport in the Olympics!)

Regardless, find comfort in this:

1 Therefore you have no excuse, everyone of you who passes judgment, for in that which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. 2 And we know that the judgment of God rightly falls upon those who practice such things. 3 But do you suppose this, O man, when you pass judgment on those who practice such things and do the same yourself, that you will escape the judgment of God? 4 Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance? 5 But because of your stubbornness and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, 6 who WILL RENDER TO EACH PERSON ACCORDING TO HIS DEEDS: 7 to those who by perseverance in doing good seek for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life; 8 but to those who are selfishly ambitious and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, wrath and indignation. 9 There will be tribulation and distress for every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek, 10 but glory and honor and peace to everyone who does good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 11 For there is no partiality with God. Romans 2:1-11

In a nutshell, we need to realize that God is the only true judge. Therefore, not only does it NOT matter what people think of us . . . it really doesn’t matter what we think of them either! *smile*

Rest assured, God is keeping track!

Criticism ~ Constructive or Destructive?

2007-02-26T00:01:00.000-05:00

Criticism

Definition :

1. the act of passing judgment as to the merits of anything.

2. the act of passing severe judgment; censure; faultfinding.

Dictionary.com “Criticism”

Constructive Criticism

Definition :

criticism or advice that is useful and intended to help or improve something, often with an offer of possible solutions.

Dictionary.com “Constructive Criticism”

Obviously, there are several forms of and motivations for criticism.  None are very endearing, or easy to hear, but some are useful.  In fact, Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured.  Proverbs 13:18  According to God`s Word, he that `regardeth` constructive criticism (as it is `useful` and `intended to help or improve something`) will be honoured.  Those offering constructive criticism will often accompany their remarks with `an offer of possible solutions`!

Quite differently, criticism, just for the sake of `passing judgment` or `faultfinding` is useless and sometimes very painful.  Sometimes, the effects are devastating and can ruin relationships in families or with friends.  Often times, these types of comments are made out of anger or jealousy.  But the Lord promises us:  "No weapon that is formed against you will prosper; And every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, And their vindication is from Me," declares the LORD.”  Isaiah 54:17

The Lord has made us all a certain way.  He made us to do certain things.  He made us to do certain things IN a certain way.  We all have particular mannerisms and personalities that make us who we are.  ~His daughters!

For example, I am very laid back in general.  There are very few things that I will do on a `whim`!  It also takes quite a bit to infuriate me.  (In fact, because I know my Lord doesn`t want me to be angry and grouchy and bitter, I am working even harder to be a more calm and objective person.)  Often, I try to separate my self from things and take in the big picture.  It`s a hard thing to do, but not improving my disposition is not healthy either.

It`s even harder to be criticized for it!  (Especially by family or friends!)

As I`ve mentioned before, our neighbors are interesting people and they like to `have fun` and some nights it gets loud and a bit scary.  (Saturday night was one of these kinds of nights! *wink*)  This past summer, when it got really bad (including fights and gunfire) we were all pretty terrified to live here.  We all lost a lot of sleep and it became stressful and miserable INSIDE our house.

Finally, I took a stand, not the one my son would have liked perhaps, but I stood with God!  I prayed for the protection of His guardian angels.  It took a bit of time to overcome the fear and the intimidation, but there is really only so much we can do in any situation ~ in the natural.  We`ve been looking for a home.  We made reports to the authorities.  We have to give it all up to God and trust Him for a solution ~ whatever it might be!

Criticism is no different.  (Not quite as scary! *wink*)  It is just more useless `junk` that if allowed to enter into your thoughts, it will pollute them.  Just like a poison, it isn`t healthy for your spirit, your mind, your body, your demeanor or your relationships to harbor things said critically!  ~ No matter the source.

Bind up the `junk` and give it away to God.  Trust Him to deal with it!

“The Secret”

2007-02-23T00:01:00.000-05:00

My very best friend and author of `A Walk Through the Valley` has addressed a very important issue ~ one that needs brought out into the open and exposed, dealt with and discarded!

"For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light for fear that his deeds will be exposed.” John 3:20

It is a very enlightening and revealing look into a new book called “The Secret”. Very eye-opening!

Please take a moment and read it here:

A Walk Through the Valley ~ “The Secret”

Be blessed and have a wonderful, God-filled weekend!

The Power of the Church AND You

2007-02-22T00:01:00.000-05:00

Recently, during a church board meeting, focused on `re-grouping` and `re-structuring` our `outreach` efforts, our Pastor concentrated mainly on Acts 2 which outlines the original spread of Christianity and the power of the church.

I felt very motivated and inspired from this, so I thought I might share it!

Acts 2:37-47

Now when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brethren, what shall we do?”

Peter said to them, “Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

“For the promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off, as many as the Lord our God will call to Himself.”

And with many other words he solemnly testified and kept on exhorting them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation!”

So then, those who had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls.

They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles` teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe; and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles.

And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common;

and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need.

Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart,

praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.

This basically sets the guidelines for salvation, the `steps` so to speak.

“Be saved from this perverse generation!” ~ That sounds familiar!  I still find myself in amazement at the corruption that continues to plague our society.  Most of which is completely legal!

“They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles` teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”  ~  How many of us could actually use the words `continually devoting` in reference to our teaching, fellowship or prayer?  To anything that pertains to God?

“Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe; and many wonders and signs . . . “  I STILL feel a sense of awe when I see God`s work and supernatural power!

“praising God and having favor with all the people”  Do you receive favor?  I can tell you first hand, if you approach people with sincerity and with the love of God shining through, you will be surprised at how many times you will receive His favor ~ for no apparent reason!  Let me give you an example . . . I had returned an item and I waited 6 weeks for the credit to be applied to my credit card . . . nothing happened!  Once again, I called the company and explained the circumstances.  Like most other representatives, this gentleman could have demanded proof of the return or presented me with some sort of series hoops to jump through!  He did not.  He immediately issued me credit for the item and for several other charges I had incurred due to his company`s error.  (Credits that were not originally offered to me!)  The total for this ended up being $88.98!  That`s a chunk of change!

My main point here is simply this . . . get excited about God!  Approach everything in life BECAUSE of God!  Get excited about eternal life!  This world we live in is just temporary!  If the moms at the PTA give you a hard time and judge you ~ so be it!  If the ladies in the hair salon whisper because they know your ex-husband ~ so be it!

Personally, I`m tired of the judgment!  I have carried guilt, condemnation, fear, insecurity and all sorts of other kinds of `junk` around for long enough!  The people looking down their noses at you do not have a clue what is going on!  Stand up straight!  Hold your head high and look to your Father in Heaven for support!  He created you in His image!  He created you with a plan!  You are a beautiful, magnificent daughter of the Almighty God in Heaven!  Praise God!

Ultimately, this is your ministry!  People (sinners) will see your beauty (inside and out) they will begin to yearn for what you have (God)!  You certainly do not have to be arrogant about it, but just be you, be the YOU that God personally made you to be!  Be the YOU that has been born again ~ made new!  I was reminded recently that God knows how many hairs are on your head!  If He is concerned about something so insignificant, imagine how much thought and time and love He put into who you are!  Glorify Him in everything you do!  Amen!

No Rest for the Weary?

2007-02-20T00:01:00.000-05:00

Gosh!  I have just been so tired and achy lately!  Perhaps when you factor in all of the ice breaking and snow shoveling I`ve had to do?  Between two sidewalks, a path for the newspaper boy and digging my car out . . . it might be understandable.  Poor Me!  *grin*

We just get so bogged down with all of the routine and laboring tasks that we can`t think about much else.  All parents, all homeowners have a tough time that`s for sure.  Single moms ~ we`ve got to do it all.  Unless of course you are fortunate enough to be able to hire someone to shovel snow, cut grass, clean house, etc.  (I`m not quite there yet, but plan to at least get a housekeeper in once a week to cut down some of the work.)

I do really enjoy cutting grass and being outside.  It is something you can look back over and see a job well done.  AND the grass will take a week or so to grow back!  *wink* Shoveling snow ~ not so much!  That is a task I gladly pawn off on my 14-year old!  Luckily, he is taking on more responsibility and more of the `guy` jobs around the house!  (Thank God for sons!)

We have to remember, through it ALL, that our Heavenly Father is right there for us!  He`s better than any exercise regime, vitamin pill, diet, supplement or even sleep!  (Those things are all extremely important in context.)  My point is, however, that no matter how low we feel, no matter how tired, worn out, no matter how many muscles and joints ache ~ God is there to pick us up, dust us off and put us back together again!  For I will [fully] satisfy the weary soul, and I will replenish every languishing and sorrowful person.  Jeremiah 31:25

You just have to believe in Him, seek Him and nurture your relationship with Him!  And you have perseverance and have endured for My name`s sake, and have not grown weary.  Revelation 2:3

When I was 17 (a long time ago) I lost my maternal grandmother to breast cancer.  (Before there were survivors.)  This woman was something else!  She and my grandfather divorced in a day and age when it was not accepted practice.  She worked two jobs to support my mom and aunt and she never complained!  Never!  What a life!  What a woman!

Well, when I get down on myself, I like to think about my grandma.  I think about how proud she`d be if she saw me today.  If she knew how much I love God, how much I love my sons and how hard I try every day to live a life of victory!  This particular verse reminds me so much of her:  Yet those who wait for the LORD Will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary.  Isaiah 40:31

Gain NEW strength!  Mount up with wings like eagles!  Run without being tired!  Walk without becoming weary!  ~By the power of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior!  Amen!

Plan “B”

2007-02-19T00:01:00.000-05:00

Since beginning my blog and developing a bit of a following, I`ve struggled as to whether I should write every day or not.  Don`t get me wrong!  I really enjoy writing this blog and it is a sincere and heartfelt goal of mine to reach out to other single moms.  (Or anyone that needs encouragement!)

This particular weekend, has been a bit trying in quite a few areas.  And, as I`ve mentioned before, I`m struggling to implement a schedule for my household and my business.  One idea I`ve had is to schedule differently for the weekends as that usually includes grocery shopping, visiting, church and household duties.

Therefore, I`ve decided to post Monday through Friday.  I spend quite a bit of time on my blog writing and once I feel led to a particular topic, I research Bible verses and try to learn as much as I possibly can on the subject.  Dedicating this kind of time does take away from other things, like my family and personal reading.

My Saturday and Sunday blog research time will now be dedicated to personal readings from the Word and any books that I`m attempting to read!  (Yes, anyone that knows me very well realizes how funny this is!  I am `attempting` about five books right now - all of which some very wonderful people have either purchased or recommended to me!)  I am NOT a book reader, but this is another personal task I am working on in order to exercise my brain and gain more knowledge and understanding of several topics!  *wink*

So, I`m really hoping that this won`t upset anyone or send anyone away.  I am very dedicated to this ministry that God has put on my heart.  I have been a single mom for a very long time – most of my adult life!  God has worked with me and molded me into something much better than what I was.  I have come very far along my path.  (Not nearly far enough yet, but we are all a work in progress.)  We are beautiful, wonderful daughters of our Heavenly Father and he has a plan for each one of us!

It is so hard sometimes to remember that you aren`t alone or that the world won`t end if you don`t` have an immaculate house!  Thing is, your Heavenly Father loves you SO much.  He sent His ONLY son to this Earth to die on a cross, wearing a crown of thorns, while being stabbed in the side, starved and ridiculed.  –Not to mention that they nailed him to a cross before they ever got started!  Could you imagine sacrificing your only son to save another?  How many of us can honestly say that we`d be willing to do this?

Well, that is a rhetorical question, but think on it!  Imagine!  Imagine how much God must love each and every one of us!  Because He DID!  He not only gave Jesus Christ so you could be saved, but He allowed Him to suffer!  To suffer for all of our sins so that we would never have to again!  So that we could go to the Father and repent and never look back!

I challenge you Sisters!  Repent and WALK ON!  Walk on to salvation!  To inner peace, happiness, joy, love, comfort, calmness and more!  More than you have ever known!

So, although I have no doubt that part of God`s plan for my life includes reaching out to my Sisters, I feel that it would be best to take a bit of a break every week and refresh and revive and spend a bit more time with my family, with myself and most importantly with God!

Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.  Psalm 16:9

3 Things I am Most Thankful For . . .

2007-02-17T00:01:00.000-05:00

I have been tagged by Melly!

I am most thankful for my Heavenly Father, without whom I would continue to wander around in this world with no purpose, no vision, no focus and worst of all no hope. He is an awesome, forgiving, loving God. He has given me hope and joy and favor beyond belief! Without Him, I could not be thankful for anything else!

I am most thankful for my sons and the unbelievable opportunity to be their Mother. They are both beautiful boys with tons of potential! They are smart, loving and kind – best of all, they are safe and healthy! What more could a Mom hope for?

I am most thankful for my best friend, hero and Mom, Judy. She has been my greatest source of support and encouragement my entire life, through good and bad. God did a superb job picking this woman as my Earthly mother and I thank Him and praise Him for this gift every single day of my life!

That I may proclaim with the voice of thanksgiving And declare all Your wonders.  Psalm 26:7

Enter His gates with thanksgiving And His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him, bless His name.  Psalm 100:4

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  Philippians 4:6

Courage the Cowardly Dog

2007-02-16T00:01:00.000-05:00

Have you ever watched this cartoon with your kids?  It`s a loopy little Cartoon Network show about this pink dog that is always protecting his owners from all sorts of weird occurrences in a zany little town called “Nowhere”.

Do you feel like you live in “Nowhere”?  Or that all kinds of bad things always happen to you?

Sometimes it feels that way.  It feels like you never get a break or that `if it weren`t for bad luck you`d have no luck at all`!  "Do not fear or be dismayed! Be strong and courageous, for thus the LORD will do to all your enemies with whom you fight."  Joshua 10:25

We may not have a little pink dog to watch over us, but we sure do have something better!  All you have to do is ask, and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ is always there!  Always!  Be strong and let your heart take courage, All you who hope in the LORD.  Psalm 31:24

Some days it takes a little more than others to be strong and courageous.  We just have to have faith and `wait for the Lord`.  Wait for the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD.  Psalm 27:14

Unfortunately, as single moms, our `some days` seem to be more frequent.  There is less help with the kids, less encouragement, `less` of a lot of things!  But fear not my Sisters!  It`s just a ploy, an attack, by the enemy to discourage us and bring us down.  He thinks we`re more vulnerable and susceptible to his attacks!  But we`ll show him, won`t we?  We have the love and grace of our Heavenly Father and that is MORE than enough!

A Little Bit `Off`

2007-02-15T00:01:00.000-05:00

Today, I don`t really have a target or an idea.  I`m actually a little `off`.  I really have been for a while and I just can`t place it.

Things are going much better in general.  New doors are opening, new opportunities have presented.  I should be delirious.  I was even able to invest money into our business and pay some bills that have been `lingering` around unpaid!  Whoo Hoo!  *big smile*

If it makes any sense at all, I`m feeling a bit guilty.  We have struggled for so long and had to pinch so many pennies, that I feel guilty spending money.  I`m worried that we`ll `run out`!

Well, the fact of the matter is, that I`ve hoped for so long and `believed` for so long, I`m just taken aback that `better days` are here!  Perhaps I never really believed at all?

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.  Hebrews 11:1

And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.  Hebrews 11:6

We are told to expect God`s supernatural power.

But earnestly desire the greater gifts. And I show you a still more excellent way. I Corinthians 12:31

"Look among the nations! Observe! Be astonished! Wonder! Because I am doing something in your days-- You would not believe if you were told."  Habakkuk 1:5

Well, I`m still learning this!  He amazes me and surprises me ~ each and every day!  He is just so awesome and miraculous!

"Nevertheless I did not believe the reports, until I came and my eyes had seen it. And behold, the half was not told me. You exceed in wisdom and prosperity the report which I heard."  I Kings 10:7

Do you ever have one of those moments when you`ve come through a tough battle and you look back over all the events that took place and it dawns on you!  If all of those things hadn`t happened, you wouldn`t be where you are or who you are!

He will fulfil the desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them.  Psalm 145:19

You realize, finally, or even again, that God really does know what He`s doing!  And often, we feel like idiots because we ever doubted!

Ask and it shall be given unto you, seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened unto you.   Matthew 7:7

Praise God!

Go in Peace and Be Healed

2007-02-14T00:01:00.000-05:00

Good grief!  Is it just me or does it seem like everyone you know is sick?  Is everyone in your house sick?

We`re all sick, snotty, stuffy and achy!  *big smile*  My kids are miserable and demanding and I feel like a truck ran me over!

I usually get one really good dose of the flu every winter.  If this is it, then I`ll consider myself lucky.  Although I ache and would think about sacrificing my left arm for a nap, I don`t have any other major symptoms!  Hallelujah!

I haven`t even felt like spending time at the computer today!  Now that IS sick!  *wink*

The good news is, God is our healer.  And He said, "If you will give earnest heed to the voice of the LORD your God, and do what is right in His sight, and give ear to His commandments, and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have put on the Egyptians; for I, the LORD, am your healer."  Exodus 15:26

He is our healer and He is always there for us, even during cold and flu season.  O LORD my God, I cried to You for help, and You healed me.  Psalm 30:2

Whether it be you, or your children or both, go to the Father in prayer.  Earnestly and whole-heartedly pray to him for relief and healing.  Have faith in His power and goodness!   . . . and the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick . . . James 5:15

He truly loves us and would not have us suffer; all we have to do is trust in Him.  And He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace and be healed of your affliction."  Mark 5:34

If you have been fortunate enough to avoid the illness that seems to be attacking the nation widespread this Winter, pray anyway!  Pray especially!  Blessed be God, Who has not turned away my prayer Nor His lovingkindness from me.  Psalm 66:20

Continue to pray for protection from the `bugs` that loom around at the grocery store, the schools, the work place, church, etc.  "Therefore I say to you, all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them, and they will be granted you."  Mark 11:24

Losing Your Temper = Losing Your Mind?

2007-02-13T00:01:00.000-05:00

Do you lose your temper?  I do.  This is one of those things that the Lord has me dealing with.  I constantly tell myself that I can be calm all the time.  I even `coach` myself!  *wink*  But, it remains to be a huge stumbling block for me.

On Monday, my 3-year old and I went to the market.  Well this is a treat for him for several reasons.  He loves getting out, he loves `meeting` all the other little kids and he loves all the `new` food in the house.  In fact, he feels the need to eat and drink everything that night!

Oh my goodness!  Can you say frustrating?  Every time I turn my head, he raids the refrigerator and steals another juice box.  These are `supposed` to last all week!  The worst part is, he has one out, but it has gotten warm.  Well, he can`t drink that!  (Duh Mom!)  He has to have a cold one.  Growl!

Well, perhaps, everyone loses their temper at one point or another and for one reason or another.  It really is not the best thing!

One translation of  Proverbs 29:11 reads:  A fool always loses his temper, But a wise man holds it back.  Another reads like this:  A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.  Boy, doesn`t that sum it all up?

In other words, losing your temper is like putting your whole mind right out there!  All over the place.  Essentially, losing it!  Losing your mind.

Also, He who is slow to anger has great understanding, But he who is quick-tempered exalts folly.  Proverbs 14:29

According to Dictionary.com

fol•ly

the state or quality of being foolish; lack of understanding or sense.

a foolish action, practice, idea, etc.; absurdity: the folly of performing without a rehearsal.

a costly and foolish undertaking; unwise investment or expenditure.

Architecture. a whimsical or extravagant structure built to serve as a conversation piece, lend interest to a view, commemorate a person or event, etc.: found esp. in England in the 18th century.

follies, a theatrical revue.

Obsolete. wickedness; wantonness.

As you can see, a folly doesn`t serve much purpose. Neither does losing your temper. A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, But the slow to anger calms a dispute. Proverbs 15:18

We need to remain calm and rational. We need to possess and express `great understanding`! Amen!

What About Me?

2007-02-12T00:01:00.000-05:00

Do your kids say this a lot?  Mine do!

Do you say it?  I do!  Not so much any more, but I still think it sometimes!

It can be very frustrating when you do and do for everyone else and you seem to get nothing in return.  Not even gratitude.  Not even a `Thank You`!

Moms especially have it rough.  We do for our kids, our parents, (I still help my ex-husband from time to time), our jobs, our co-workers, our friends, our neighbors, our church, the kids` school, the elderly, the sick, the hungry . . .

"Beware of practicing your righteousness before men to be noticed by them; otherwise you have no reward with your Father who is in heaven.   “So when you give to the poor, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be honored by men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full. “But when you give to the poor, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving will be in secret; and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you.  Matthew 6:1-4

Sometimes; we, as human beings, as women, can get very weary and even disheartened.  The enemy uses this.  He will try to attack us and convince us that we aren`t appreciated.  (Sometimes he does a really good job too!)  *wink*  The enemy would have us cheated out of the blessings that God promises us!  And he did not delight in blessing, so it was far from him.  Psalm 109:17  `He did not delight in blessing` ~ He didn`t bless others.  `So it was far from him` ~ He did not receive blessings in return.  In fact it says `it was far from him` ~ FAR!

What we have to remember here is that this is an excellent way to be!  This is the way Christ would have us be.  Doers.  Givers. Blessings to Others!  To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing.  I Peter 3:8-9

The Lord promises to bless us for generosity and kindness.  Be a blessing Sisters!  Step out in your faith and your love of God and bless others!  The generous man will be prosperous, And he who waters will himself be watered.  Proverbs 11:25

Let the love of God shine through you like a light unto men.  There are so many lost and hurting souls in this world.  They don`t know God`s love.  We have a duty to show them ~ to be a vessel.  If we as Christians don`t show God`s love and kindness to others, not only will they not see God`s love ~ they may wander further away!  “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.  Matthew 5:14-16

Forgive and Forget

2007-02-11T00:01:00.000-05:00

1 He said to His disciples, “It is inevitable that stumbling blocks come, but woe to him through whom they come!   2 “It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were thrown into the sea, than that he would cause one of these little ones to stumble.   3 “Be on your guard! If your brother sins, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him.   4 “And if he sins against you seven times a day, and returns to you seven times, saying, `I repent,` forgive him.”   5 The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!”   6 And the Lord said, “If you had faith like a mustard seed, you would say to this mulberry tree, `Be uprooted and be planted in the sea`; and it would obey you.   7 “Which of you, having a slave plowing or tending sheep, will say to him when he has come in from the field, `Come immediately and sit down to eat`?   8 “But will he not say to him, `Prepare something for me to eat, and properly clothe yourself and serve me while I eat and drink; and afterward you may eat and drink`? 9 “He does not thank the slave because he did the things which were commanded, does he?   10 “So you too, when you do all the things which are commanded you, say, `We are unworthy slaves; we have done only that which we ought to have done.`”   Luke 17:1-10

It seems like Jesus is implying that the unwillingness to forgive has caused many to lose their souls.   Halley, Henry H. Halley`s Bible Handbook. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, 1965

Yikes!   Is holding a grudge really worth losing your soul?   Not me!   I mean there are a lot of people in this world that have done some pretty miserable things to me, my children, my parents, my friends ~ a lot of them!   Some will continue to do so!

But think about it, if you hold grudges and refuse to forgive, you are allowing anyone who has hurt you to control each and every day of your life.   Not only that, you are giving them control over your eternal life as well!   In most cases, they are continuing to affect your life (and those you love) WAY more than you ever affected theirs!  They`ve probably never given you or your pain and heartache a second thought!

I would have to say that forgiving AND forgetting is tough.   Extremely, tough!   You have to literally let go of the disappointment, the anger, the hatred, the resentment and give your emotions to God.   And My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land.   II Chronicles 7:14

Walk away from the issue and move on to a higher level in life.   We are commanded to forgive up to 70 X 7 times, just as Peter was:   Then Peter came and said to Him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?”   Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.   Matthew 18:21-22

Look at it in perspective . . . Jesus Christ died for our sins.   He died so that we could seek salvation and forgiveness from the Father.   He could very easily say, `hey I died for their sins but yet they forsake me, I`m done with them, I`m going to hold a grudge`.  How awful would that be?   Could you imagine missing out on eternal salvation because you committed a sin when you were 19 and Jesus won`t forgive you?   Never having the opportunity to confess your sins and receive the cleansing of the blood of the Lamb?   I shudder to think about it!

Thank the good Lord that this is not the case!   But one whom you forgive anything, I forgive also; for indeed what I have forgiven, if I have forgiven anything, I did it for your sakes in the presence of Christ, so that no advantage would be taken of us by Satan, for we are not ignorant of his schemes.II Corinthians 2:10-11

God is willing to forgive us, even our most outrageous sins.   If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.   I John 1:9   Who are we to say that we cannot forgive our neighbor for theirs?   Do we really think so highly of ourselves that we are above it?

On the other hand, one might say, `Hey, I`m not above God, I`m just too weak, I don`t have it in me to forgive`.   (I hear `ya!)   Luckily, we don`t have to do it alone!   By the grace of God, by faith, we have help.   And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do the things that are pleasing in His sight.  I John 3:22   We just have to trust Him and ask Him to help us!   "With people it is impossible, but not with God; for all things are possible with God."   Mark 10:27

Praise God!

Lonely? Or Just Alone?

2007-02-10T00:01:00.000-05:00

For those of you that have come accustomed to hanging out with me and aren`t `single moms` ~ I apologize.  Today is a single mom day.  ~It`s what I know!  *big smile*

This week in general has been pretty difficult for me.  I`m having some issues with being a single mom!  Hang on though!  Not because I am one necessarily!  I love my children and I love where my life is headed.  I love God and He is taking care of us.  ”Therefore repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord”  Acts 3:19

Certainly, if I could choose my life to be different, I would!  My sons would have a father and I would have a loving husband.  There would be someone to share the joy with as well as the responsibility.  We`d have a white picket fence and a dog!  *wink*

For whatever reason though, this is where my life is.  Probably the biggest part of it is because I chose to live a sinful life full of satisfying one fleshly desire after another!  I spent quite a bit of time with all the wrong kinds of people and I was taken advantage of.  In MANY ways!  "Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, each according to his conduct," declares the Lord GOD. "Repent and turn away from all your transgressions, so that iniquity may not become a stumbling block to you.  Cast away from you all your transgressions which you have committed and make yourselves a new heart and a new spirit! For why will you die, O house of Israel?  Ezekiel 18:30-31

Regardless, whatever set it all in motion, God is using what I know and what I`ve experienced to reach out to you!  Turn to my reproof, Behold, I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you.  Proverbs 1:23

My issues this week, however, are with the stereotypes that surround us.  Why is it that people can`t just accept us for who we are?

Jesus Christ DIED for my sins and has forgiven my transgressions ~ why can`t people?  (By the way ~ we ARE just people!  All of us!  Look at God!  Is anyone greater than Him?)  Perhaps we should all take a look.  Remember this when someone treats you like a nobody!  And if you are treating someone like a nobody ~ you had better pray about it!  "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."  Matthew 3:2

Single Moms are some of the strongest, most courageous women you will ever meet!  If it snows ~ they shovel.  If the grass needs cut ~ they cut it.  The house, the laundry, the dishes, and meals ~ they take care of all those!  The kids` homework ~ Mom.  Discipline & chauffeuring ~ Mom!  Groceries ~ Mom!  Most of these women have little to no family to help out and certainly can`t afford a babysitter or housekeeper!  Did I mention `can`t afford`?  Yep!  Even after leaving their babies for 40 ~ 60 hours per week, they STILL can`t afford to support them!  Please don`t get me started on Health Care!  Welfare?  Oh heavens!  The `system` is seriously amiss in most cases.  When we cry, we cry alone and late at night.  We have to schedule this in after the kids` bedtime so we don`t upset them too!

Often times, these women were `dumped` by their husbands.  They are left with nothing.  Just getting out of bed each day is a serious challenge!

Some might say `boo hoo` you deserve it!  OK ~ I`ll bite!  Why?  Why do I (or any other single mom) deserve to be overwhelmed, abused, neglected, stereotyped, alienated or just plain treated badly?  Did I miss the memo where everyone was told to ignore the single mom?  Worse yet . . . did I miss the one that said I couldn`t be a Christian if I was a single mom?  Personally, I am very tired of my marital status being an issue!  Is it totally necessary for me to air my dirty laundry and share my sob story in great detail in order for other human beings to accept me?   I am a person too.

"Be on your guard! If your brother sins, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him.”   Luke 17:3

God loves me!  God forgives me!  Shouldn`t everyone else?  Or are there really people out there that think their opinion is more important than His?

Deuteronomy 24:1-5
Law of Divorce

1 “When a man takes a wife and marries her, and it happens that she finds no favor in his eyes because he has found some indecency in her, and he writes her a certificate of divorce and puts it in her hand and sends her out from his house, 2 and she leaves his house and goes and becomes another man`s wife, 3 and if the latter husband turns against her and writes her a certificate of divorce and puts it in her hand and sends her out of his house, or if the latter husband dies who took her to be his wife, 4 then her former husband who sent her away is not allowed to take her again to be his wife, since she has been defiled; for that is an abomination before the LORD, and you shall not bring sin on the land which the LORD your God gives you as an inheritance. 5 “When a man takes a new wife, he shall not go out with the army nor be charged with any duty; he shall be free at home one year and shall give happiness to his wife whom he has taken.

Down & Discouraged

2007-02-09T00:01:00.000-05:00

What a trying day Thursday was for me!  Technical errors, missed meetings, differing viewpoints, unmet obligations, broken agreements . . . The list goes on & on.  By the end of the day, I felt like, emotionally, I could not take one more `thing`!  It is exhausting!  It seems like it is much harder to recover from mental exhaustion than physical exhaustion.

Do you realize, though, when we list all off our gripes and complaints, when we acknowledge all the `junk` in our lives, we are actually giving credit to the enemy?  Yeah!  Giving him credit for being a huge nuisance!

He has control over the Earth.  He makes all the `junk` that filters in to your otherwise copasetic existence!  For all of them were trying to frighten us, thinking, "They will become discouraged with the work and it will not be done." But now, O God, strengthen my hands.  Nehemiah 6:9  The enemy wants nothing more than to keep you beaten down, broken and vulnerable to his influence.

So, in an effort to overcome my particularly trying day, I want to examine discouragement and leave it behind me!  *smile*  Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why are you disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God.   Psalm 43:5

Personally, I don`t like feeling discouraged or defeated.  Gosh, I`ve battled with depression almost one third of my life!   Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day.   II Corinthians 4:16  Day by day, regardless of the circumstances in this world around us, we are being rewarded.  We are growing closer and closer to Eternal Life!

Our Lord and Savior offers us hope and promise.  All we have to do is allow Him into our hearts and love Him.  Share our lives with Him and seek to live a life that glorifies Him!   "Listen to Me, you who know righteousness, A people in whose heart is My law; Do not fear the reproach of man, Nor be dismayed at their revilings.  For the moth will eat them like a garment, And the grub will eat them like wool. But My righteousness will be forever, And My salvation to all generations.”  Isaiah 51:7-8  God is so good!  His righteousness, His salvation ~ they are good.  The little piddly `junk` that interferes with our lives is only temporary!  It`s just a hurdle.

Did you ever run track?  Or have to jump hurdles in gym class?  Well, I ran track.  I hated the hurdles!  They were really hard for me to jump!  I would tell myself I was going to jump them and when I`d get close, I`d get scared.  I`d totally get psyched out!  What if I tripped?  What if I fell?  Emotional and mental hurdles in adult life are much like those in track and gym!  And boy, they are scary!

"Then you will prosper, if you are careful to observe the statutes and the ordinances which the LORD commanded Moses concerning Israel. Be strong and courageous, do not fear nor be dismayed. . .   I Chronicles 22:13

Do not fear or be dismayed!  Be strong and courageous!  You WILL prosper!

Where Is the Fear?

2007-02-08T00:01:00.000-05:00

A term I grew up hearing and knowing was `God Fearing`. I always knew that besides my parents or the authorities, if (when) I messed up, I would have to answer to God. If I didn`t change my ways, if I wasn`t on the right track, God would deal with me appropriately. I also knew that this would be worse than anything my parents or the law could dole out! Evil shall slay the wicked, and those who hate the righteous will be condemned. The LORD redeems the soul of His servants, And none of those who take refuge in Him will be condemned. Psalm 34:21-22

Over the years now, my relationship with God has grown into one of love and adoration. I still fear Him (like a strict parent), but I don`t` live in fear of Him. Rather, I worship Him and praise Him because He is awesome. But godliness with contentment is great gain. I Timothy 6:6 He has shown me time and time again how wonderful He is and how merciful He is! But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness. I Timothy 6:11 The Amplified Bible translates Godliness here as: `the loving fear of God and being Christlike`.

My question today though, where`s the fear in this world?

The world is so consumed with hatred and vulgarity. It also seems to me that people are so driven by being noticed and recognized, that they will do anything to get attention ~ even bad attention. Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. I Timothy 6:5

I find it very terrifying that people don`t fear the wrath of God anymore. (How can we expect them to be intimidated by the legal system or jail time?)

Abstain from every form of evil. I Thessalonians 5:22 Couldn`t be more plain than that! EVERY form of evil. Not just some, not the ones that are convenient or the ones that aren`t `socially` unacceptable EVERY form! Even the smallest ones or the ones on the lowest scale.

I`ll be the first to admit that it is hard to do this. But we have to try. We have to correct areas of our lives that we are convicted in and move on to the next issue. Constantly walking farther along the path to righteousness. Constantly excelling and improving our way of living. Flee from these things . . . pursue righteousness, Godliness, faith, love perseverance and gentleness! But refuse profane and old wives` fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.I Timothy 4:7-8

You can`t just overcome drinking, or drugs or gambling and stop there. ~ Don`t get me wrong, those are major addictions and everyone has a different struggle with each. Overcoming addiction(s) is a great accomplishment and to be admired. The point I`m making is that it`s not the only one. There are many, many issues in all of our lives that we need to overcome. No matter your level of commitment to the Father, there is something that you can improve upon to walk closer to Him.

Let`s face it, we are not perfect or even close to being comparable to God. This is something we must always strive for and something only completely attained once we arrive in Heaven with Him!

But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness. Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation.II Peter 3:10-15

Sloth (a.k.a. Laziness)

2007-02-07T00:01:00.000-05:00

Sloth (a.k.a. Laziness) What ugly words. Nobody wants to be lazy, nobody wants to admit they`re lazy – but in general we`re a pretty lazy species. Remote controls, power windows, riding lawnmowers, leaf blowers ~ the list of `modern conveniences` goes on and on. Not too many of us could say we`d rather do without them either!

The desire of the sluggard puts him to death, For his hands refuse to work. Proverbs 21:25 Does that make you a little uncomfortable? Me too! What about this: Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger. Proverbs 19:15

I just wonder how many people would prefer to sit in front of the TV or computer screen as to mow the lawn or plant a garden. ~ Let`s not even talk about housework! *wink* I saw a button on a message board once that read, “If my house is clean ~ the computer is broken.” Cute? Yeah, I thought so too! (Worst of it, it`s true!)

I rationalize it all because I`m essentially working. Building websites, designing ads, running link exchanges, editing photos, etc. Yes, I AM working, but there is no balance.

Just as I mentioned before, I need to implement a schedule and stick with it. Included in that schedule is housework and chores. Ewh! Can I even put in to words how much I hate doing dishes? Or picking up toys? (They never stay there!) And laundry! Talk about a vicious cycle! *big smile*

Well, the plain and simple truth is, I HAVE to! Who else is going to do it? The bright side to this for us single moms is that there is no one to be upset with us for neglecting the house! The down side is, there`s no one to help!

Not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord. Romans 12:11 Not lagging. Diligent. Fervent in spirit. Serving the Lord! ~ Gosh! Cleaning my house, showing it attention, being hard-working, this behavior serves the Lord? And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end. Hebrews 6:11 Don`t we all want to glorify God and spend eternity in Heaven?

This world continues to destroy itself. Society continues to be more corrupt. There are no morals or values. People aren`t afraid of eternal damnation, let alone the legal system. Violence wasn`t enough on its own, now it has become more and more atrocious and unbelievable. I don`t know about you, but the hope of eternal salvation sounds better and better. I think that is good motivation to step away from the computer and do some housework! *smile*

Time Management

2007-02-06T00:01:00.000-05:00

How well do you manage your time? I must admit that I`m not very good at it. My day is pretty unorganized and is at the mercy of my pre-schooler`s whims. I`ve tried many times to implement a schedule and it just hasn`t worked out. Here`s something to think about though: Poverty and shame will come to him who neglects discipline, But he who regards reproof will be honored. Proverbs 13:18 Also this: He will die for lack of instruction, And in the greatness of his folly he will go astray. Proverbs 5:23

WOW! So it would seem that all of the advice we hear on time-management and scheduling might serve a higher purpose! For bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. I Timothy 4:8

I have desperately been feeling a need to get more organized in my life as a whole. There are so many things that I need to do and several that I want and enjoy doing. It seems like if you aren`t organized, you are going crazy all the time and accomplishing nothing. Why is it so difficult to set up a routine and stick to it? Why do we dread it so? All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness. Hebrews 12:11

It would surely seem that even in Godliness, we are to seek organization, be diligent and disciplined. Not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord. Romans 12:11

What better way to deliver the message of hope and salvation than to visibly be `put together`? To totally have your act together in everything you do! And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end. Hebrews 6:11

I am normally a bit scattered and distracted, always stressing my next task or obligation. Why would anyone envy that? Why would they want to have what I have? Simple. They wouldn`t. It is extremely important to your family`s mental health and well being to manage your time better, but it is most important to God. We have a duty to Him to reflect a life that is enviable to others. They should see us, our demeanor, our actions, our responses and say, “Hey, I want to live the way she lives! How can I do that?”

God is Always on Time

2007-02-05T00:01:00.000-05:00

Do you often find yourself running late? Boy, I do. It seems like no matter how early I start to get ready, something happens. The kids won`t cooperate! The car won`t cooperate! Traffic won`t cooperate! Let`s not even talk about hair, make-up or clothes! It seems like the tighter the schedule the more issues that crop up! (There`s always that one sock or shoe that `hides`! *wink*)

I`ve had to work really hard at overcoming this challenge too. I mean here I am now with two children to get ready and essentially no help. It takes a lot of motivation and sometimes it even takes skipping some things.

It`s comforting to know that not only does God not skip over things, but His timing is always perfect. He is never too early or too late! There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven— A time to give birth and a time to die; A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted. A time to kill and a time to heal; A time to tear down and a time to build up. A time to weep and a time to laugh; A time to mourn and a time to dance. A time to throw stones and a time to gather stones; A time to embrace and a time to shun embracing. A time to search and a time to give up as lost; A time to keep and a time to throw away. A time to tear apart and a time to sew together; A time to be silent and a time to speak. A time to love and a time to hate; A time for war and a time for peace. Ecclesiastes 3:1 - 8

As I`ve mentioned before, we`ve been looking for a new house for almost 4 years now. We`ve seen all kinds. We`ve considered building. We`ve considered a modular. Here we are now, back to buying an existing home. We really want to make the right decision!

The house we`ve found this time is really great. It`s actually been on the market for some time; however, I never paid it any attention because of its location. If you consider the events that had to take place for me to finally decide to consider it, well it`s pretty amazing. He has made everything appropriate in its time. He has also set eternity in their heart, yet so that man will not find out the work which God has done from the beginning even to the end. Ecclesiastes 3:11

We have prayed and prayed for God`s perfect will. It`s been hard to completely trust Him, because as humans, we`re pretty impatient and controlling by nature! Thus saith the LORD, In an acceptable time have I heard thee, and in a day of salvation have I helped thee: and I will preserve thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, to establish the earth, to cause to inherit the desolate heritages. Isaiah 49:8

We`ve been saying for a long time `when we move` or `we`re moving soon`! Actually, most of our family just blows us off! You can see the doubt in their faces! I mean, unless the U-Haul is sitting in the driveway . . . you aren`t moving! Right? *big smile*

Of course, we aren`t out of the woods yet (or rather, in our case, IN the woods *smile*) there are still a lot of events that will have to take place for this to all work out. Finally, however, we have learned to give this particular situation up to God. But as for me, my prayer is unto thee, O LORD, in an acceptable time: O God, in the multitude of thy mercy hear me, in the truth of thy salvation. Psalm 69:13

You see, if this house doesn`t work out, it wasn`t `meant to be`! There will be another house out there that is absolutely perfect for us. If we will be willing to completely trust God and trust His perfect timing, in due course, we will be happier than we could have ever imagined.

Hang in there Sisters! Whatever it is that you need or dream of, God has it all figured out for you. He`s done all the leg work! Trust Him! Trust His timing!

Can You ‘See’ Your Future?

2007-02-04T00:01:00.000-05:00

I can see mine! ~Through supernatural lenses! *wink*

I am not only hoping and praying for good things, but I am SEEING them come to pass. I imagine and believe for good health, safety, happiness, joy, success, prosperity, everything that my Heavenly Father promises to me and my family! "And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive." Matthew 21:22 All things that I ask for in prayer, that will improve our lives, that are good for us, that I believe for, will be given! Isn`t that hopeful? What greater guarantee in life than one from God?

You see, I know, that he promises us repayment for that which has been stolen from us. He promises riches and a crown of gold. More than we can even comprehend! And Jesus said to him, “`If You can?` All things are possible to him who believes.” Mark 9:23

We have to do our part, we have to believe, and I also think that we have to pursue. I don`t think that we should have to be obnoxious or ruthless about it, but persistent. If you want a better job ~ get the proper schooling, if you want your own business ~ pursue it! In the meantime, trust, believe, hope and dream. "Truly I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, `Be taken up and cast into the sea,` and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says is going to happen, it will be granted him. "Therefore I say to you, all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them, and they will be granted you. Mark 11:23-24

If we are doing our part, then God will do His. And Jesus said to the centurion, "Go; it shall be done for you as you have believed." Matthew 8:13

However, it is incredibly naïve to just sit and ONLY pray, doing nothing of your own capacity and think that God will reward you. In effect, you are only committing another sin by being lazy and unmotivated. (We`ll deal with laziness separately.)

The simple fact is, you have to believe. You have to look beyond the scope of earthly things and circumstances and believe for higher, greater capabilities! "If I told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things? John 3:12 Essentially, if you believe that God can provide and excel you on Earth, then you can believe and seek out the Kingdom of Heaven!

Vengeance ~ Expounded

2007-02-03T00:01:00.000-05:00

Earlier in the week I commented that if we teach our children vengeance that they will learn vengeance and they will practice vengeance ~ ultimately keeping them from the gates of Heaven.

I`ve been asked to expound on this topic a bit. So here go my thoughts . . .

First of all, let me tell you a bit about my neighbors . . . they are not very nice people. They never have been and I`ve lived here 15 years. When I moved in their children were just little.

I learned very early on that you do not challenge them. If their dog (which should be tied) `makes dirty` on your sidewalk, where you have to walk, or jumps in your car with muddy feet, or eats your groceries out of your car while you`re running them in the house ~ you simply ignore it. You don`t get upset if their children throw rocks at your brand new car either. There were many `rules`! *wink*

I had `prophesied` (if you will) that their children would grow up to be the same kind of adults as their parents. And thus far, they are. They are disrespectful, inconsiderate, etc. ~ They were never taught otherwise!

Our children will grow up to practice exactly what we`ve taught them! Depending on the social circles in which they are involved, and other environmental exposure, they might learn a little better or worse. Initially, though, we teach them basic principles to grow on.

Therefore, if we teach them vengeance (or condone it), they will indeed learn it. If they learn that it is acceptable behavior, they will practice it. This certainly is NOT acceptable behavior. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Romans 12:19

It is truly not our place to seek our own vengeance. The urge to be vengeful is of the flesh. Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself: I am the LORD. Leviticus 19:18

We are to leave vengeance and judgment up to God`s discretion. For we know Him who said, "VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY." And again, "THE LORD WILL JUDGE HIS PEOPLE." Hebrews 10:30

He has kept the ultimate list of good and bad. O LORD our God, You answered them; You were a forgiving God to them, And yet an avenger of their evil deeds. Psalm 99:8

Rebuke the `Bad Thoughts`

2007-02-02T00:01:00.000-05:00

Guilt, Depression, Anxiety, Hopelessness, Self-Pity, Loneliness, Sadness . . . these are all `junk` that come in the form of bad thoughts. The enemy uses these tricks to make you vulnerable and ultimately try to overtake you.

We`ve talked about the power of positive thinking and that is extremely important. It is also very hard if you have bad thoughts attacking your mind. It`s kind of like a football game [which I know very little about].

The positive thinking is the `offense`; it is a proactive effort for improved mental health. On the other hand, you have to rebuke the bad thoughts in a `defensive` maneuver against the enemy. This is a battle you have to fight with the Word of God! Turn to my reproof, Behold, I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you. Proverbs 1:23

When you are tired, hungry, over-worked, [most Moms I know fit in at least one of these categories] these are great times for the enemy to whisper things like, `you`re useless`, `you`ll never amount to anything`, `you can`t do that`, `you`re under qualified for that`, `no one really loves you`, `you`ll always be poor`, and that awful list is endless!

We have to stand strong in the Word and in the Love of God and rebuke these bad thoughts! At thy rebuke they fled; at the voice of thy thunder they hasted away. Psalms 104:7

There are so many day-to-day struggles that we face, and the enemy uses these as entry points. When you gain a few extra pounds, when you don`t get the job you applied for, you notice a new gray hair or wrinkle . . . the first thing that pops in your head is negative! [It`s happened to all of us for one reason or another.] Arm yourself in the Word of God and stand firm in the knowledge that you are a daughter of the Almighty God! "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

He made you for a purpose; He made you special, beautiful, loving, kind ~ HE made you! Sisters, He does NOT make mistakes!

Go look in the mirror, tell yourself how beautiful you are and that you are a conqueror! Behold, the LORD thy God hath set the land before thee: go up and possess it, as the LORD God of thy fathers hath said unto thee; fear not, neither be discouraged. Deuteronomy 1:21

The Value of a Good Friend

2007-02-01T00:01:00.000-05:00

Well, we`ve discussed a lot of `junk` this week and we`ve also discussed friendships.

Something else that can take you by surprise is when you realize that some people really just aren`t your friends and don`t care too much about you. Sometimes, you realize that a friendship is `junk`! *wink* It can be a very devastating time. I even lost a job once, because a `friend` of mine was more motivated to assume my position than to be a loyal friend! WOWIE! What a blow!

Divorce is another great test for friends. During my divorce, my ex-husband forced most of `our` friends to choose between us. I found that although they said they weren`t `choosing`, they just quit talking to ME! *big smile* In fact, the only friends I kept were friends that were originally `mine` to begin with!

Any type of separation like this is a good guide. You will figure out very quickly who your true friends are.

But enough of that. These are just more examples of `junk`. For it is not an enemy who reproaches and taunts me ~ then I might bear it; nor is it one who has hated me who insolently vaunts himself against me, ~ then I might hide from him. But it was you, a man my equal, my companion and my familiar friend. We had sweet fellowship together and used to walk to the house of God in company. Psalm 55:12-14

When this happens, we have to turn our faces to the sun and rise above. Look toward God for comfort and relief and press on. As for me, I will call upon God, and the Lord will save me. Evening and morning and at noon will I utter my complaint and moan and sigh, and He will hear my voice. He has redeemed my life in peace from the battle that was against me [so that none came near me.], for they were many who strove with me. Psalm 55:16-18 Cast your burden on the Lord [releasing the weight of it] and He will sustain you; He will never allow the [consistently] righteous to be moved (made to slip, fall, or fail). Psalm 55:22 Amidst it all, God is good!

Then, He outdoes Himself! He blesses us with really, good, true-blue, `Thelma & Louise` ~ Totally Awesome Friends. There is little as valuable or precious as one of these kinds of friends. You can trust them with your secrets, your life, your children, your money, your car, with everything! They are so incredibly valuable, that they are far and few between and hard to acquire ~ like diamonds or gold!

Perhaps they could be considered Angels on Earth! Obviously, God really is with us at all times and He will always be the ultimate friend. A man of too many friends comes to ruin, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24 Isn`t it nice to have an awesome gal pal too? Someone that God himself put here to share a good laugh, a good cry, crowning moments and the most devastating ones.

This is the woman who you know would get on a plane and fly 1000`s of miles to be with you in tragedy ~ or HAS! She`s the one that is sincerely happy that you`ve found a home after 3 years of searching. She`s the one that is happy you made a profit on a real estate sale and can finally get a REAL hair style or new pair of shoes. She`s the one that encourages you to try something new ~ especially when it`s a little [a lot] scary! She`s the one that relishes in every happy moment without begrudging you the success or prosperity! A friend loveth at all times . . . Proverbs 17:17

Yes, I believe these women are Angels! They are sent here by God to help nudge us in the right directions and help us survive!

Give your Angel a hug today and thank her for being who she is! *big hug*