Good morning all-
I'm off for my first college visit with my youngest son. I fear this year will fly by and in a few short months both my sons will be on their own. You know how you wish they could walk, brush their own teeth and go to bed, well I did and fast forward 17 years and both my sons are about to embark on a great journey.
If I think on it to long I become sad so instead I would rather look at the possibilities ahead. What will God ask of me, where will he send me and what will He expect of me? I'm sure it will be things like writing, speaking, mentoring and proclaiming that He exists. There is no greater joy than to know that He will fill in the gaps and my adventure has just begun. With that being said I still have to guide my two men, pray for them and send them off with confidence, pray I do just that.
Our job is never done with the younger generation. They are the future and will propel this world into light or darkness. They are the future leaders, pastors, presidents and dictators. They need our time, our wisdom and our direction. Love should be taught young, yet many never have this. At least not until they find Jesus. It's important that we don't forget to pray and to hold up those that are following Christ with their lives. We prayed for the youth yesterday and it reminded me of the people who invested in me, loved me and believed in being bold for Jesus. Without them, I probably wouldn't be writing this blog. They believed in the true meaning of love and when they saw a little lamb floundering, they took her in, guided her and sat with her while Jesus did the rest.
We need to be praying for the up and coming and asking Jesus to guide them. We need to be praying for ourselves and instead of finding love in things or man, find it in the arms of our Savior. That kind of love is worth more than gold, diamonds or even moon rock. (just a side note: moon rock is so valuable and the US has a few choice pieces that if we sold it, we would considerably lower our debt, instead it sits under lock and key, hmm) lets not keep the most precious jewel on display, let's share His love and invest in what counts! Love conquers all things and we know it because Jesus loves us when we are the least of these.
Take heart my sisters and love someone today. His love can raise an army of leaders, may He do so with the next generations! Please pray for countries all over the world. Natural disasters are occurring, people are dying and soldiers are fighting. It's time we love people more than we love ourselves.
I'm off but remember love conquers all!
1 Corinthians 13 NIV
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
My prayer today:
Lord let us love, let us live, let us proclaim You! In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Monday, September 30, 2013
Sunday, September 29, 2013
September 29, 2013
Good morning all-
What's the one thing that should be on our mind daily but with the hustle and bustle of life it takes a back seat? The question is rather obvious, Jesus. My pastor always says that it's the things we spend our time on that matter the most to us. For me, it's job and family and if I get a moment to myself Jesus. That's backwards and as many times as I've tried to correct it, the order continues, the pattern is set and my life becomes my idol.
Idols are dangerous because they aren't necessarily about a golden calf, they really represent every day life, such as, our jobs and families. I've always heard our priorities should be God, husband, family, and then job. For a mother who wants to be one but has to work, how much time is really spent on God and husband?
I'm a realist and believe in being real and truthful. Getting up at 5:30 am is really the only time I have to be with the Lord, one on one. I think about Him during the day and I love Him but most of the time my dedication is about 30 minutes a day. Not much time when your building a relationship, right?
I'm not one to preach about how much time we spend in our Bibles or meditate on His word or even going to church three times a week. I'm about finding Him in everything I do, learning to seek Him and building a relationship that will matter long after I'm gone. My life begins befor the sun rises and ends about 9:30 pm and normally, I have run out of energy and just want to close my eyes. I don't lead a glamorous life; it's more like a servants life and when I'm wore out there's no time for anything but sleep. Does that make me a person that loves Jesus less? I don't think so, it just makes me a person that realizes that more time should be spent with the Lord, right?
We could all watch a little less television, read less, take out needless distractions and concentrate on Him more. Realizing that we have idols helps us put them into perspective and forge a new path. Our lives are not about being perfect, they're about being perfected. Jesus knows the distractions we face and why they are put there. It's time we ask Him to multiply our time so we can focus on what matters.
My goal is to build a relationship with Jesus. How I go about doing that is between Jesus and me. If you're feeling convicted, don't feel sad, figure out what you can do to spend 15 more minutes with Him, luckily you can spend time with Him everywhere. May God bless you today and keep you. He's worth our time, even when we don't have any. Be well my sisters and know that I am praying for You.
Dear children, keep yourselves from idols. (1 John 5:21 NIV)
My prayer today:
The Lord looks upon His flock and asks Himself, "When will they come?" He knows the answer already but do we? I often marvel at Your patience with people like me. How do You wait until we step out of our lives and bow to Your feet? I'm finding it hard to be patient with myself. I know better but still when life is moving so fast, I find my time becomes more mine than Yours. Today, I ask forgiveness to a friend that always waits. I pray that You will see my heart and know how much You mean to me. I pray that You will multiply my time and the time of those that love You. Help us give up something that holds our hearts and replace it with You! Lord, we come before You asking You to be in relationship with us. Destroy the golden calf in our lives and replace it with love and wisdom. We are nothing without You. Convict us of our sins and enlighten us to Your will. We bow down today to our Maker, our Father, our Friend. In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
What's the one thing that should be on our mind daily but with the hustle and bustle of life it takes a back seat? The question is rather obvious, Jesus. My pastor always says that it's the things we spend our time on that matter the most to us. For me, it's job and family and if I get a moment to myself Jesus. That's backwards and as many times as I've tried to correct it, the order continues, the pattern is set and my life becomes my idol.
Idols are dangerous because they aren't necessarily about a golden calf, they really represent every day life, such as, our jobs and families. I've always heard our priorities should be God, husband, family, and then job. For a mother who wants to be one but has to work, how much time is really spent on God and husband?
I'm a realist and believe in being real and truthful. Getting up at 5:30 am is really the only time I have to be with the Lord, one on one. I think about Him during the day and I love Him but most of the time my dedication is about 30 minutes a day. Not much time when your building a relationship, right?
I'm not one to preach about how much time we spend in our Bibles or meditate on His word or even going to church three times a week. I'm about finding Him in everything I do, learning to seek Him and building a relationship that will matter long after I'm gone. My life begins befor the sun rises and ends about 9:30 pm and normally, I have run out of energy and just want to close my eyes. I don't lead a glamorous life; it's more like a servants life and when I'm wore out there's no time for anything but sleep. Does that make me a person that loves Jesus less? I don't think so, it just makes me a person that realizes that more time should be spent with the Lord, right?
We could all watch a little less television, read less, take out needless distractions and concentrate on Him more. Realizing that we have idols helps us put them into perspective and forge a new path. Our lives are not about being perfect, they're about being perfected. Jesus knows the distractions we face and why they are put there. It's time we ask Him to multiply our time so we can focus on what matters.
My goal is to build a relationship with Jesus. How I go about doing that is between Jesus and me. If you're feeling convicted, don't feel sad, figure out what you can do to spend 15 more minutes with Him, luckily you can spend time with Him everywhere. May God bless you today and keep you. He's worth our time, even when we don't have any. Be well my sisters and know that I am praying for You.
Dear children, keep yourselves from idols. (1 John 5:21 NIV)
My prayer today:
The Lord looks upon His flock and asks Himself, "When will they come?" He knows the answer already but do we? I often marvel at Your patience with people like me. How do You wait until we step out of our lives and bow to Your feet? I'm finding it hard to be patient with myself. I know better but still when life is moving so fast, I find my time becomes more mine than Yours. Today, I ask forgiveness to a friend that always waits. I pray that You will see my heart and know how much You mean to me. I pray that You will multiply my time and the time of those that love You. Help us give up something that holds our hearts and replace it with You! Lord, we come before You asking You to be in relationship with us. Destroy the golden calf in our lives and replace it with love and wisdom. We are nothing without You. Convict us of our sins and enlighten us to Your will. We bow down today to our Maker, our Father, our Friend. In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Saturday, September 28, 2013
September 28, 2014
Good morning all-
We have been having trouble with the Internet so the boys moved their computers downstairs. I use one of them in the morning to write my blog and now they reside in their rooms. I guess I have to find a new solution so that I can sit and write. You know little obstacles that seem so minor then turn into walls, that's what I have faced all week.
I guess I could let the walls overwhelm me, that would be easy. I'm stubborn though so my nature is to hit the wall head on until it crumbles and normally a portion of it will and the obstacle is more like a rock then a wall. I have hit many walls this week and for the most part they have crumbled, thank goodness. Normally, I wil look for the rainbow but if too many obstacles go up my rainbow turns into a healthy storm full of confusion and anxiety.
I can often turn that anxiety into action but every once in a while it turns the other way. I had a few moments like that this week and then I just stopped my thoughts and asked Jesus to come in and clear my mind. When I look upon Him, I'm often relieved, excited and at peace all at the same time. That's relief! We've talked in the last months about my new responsibilities and the complicated world of small business. It's not easy but it is so rewarding. I now understand what it truly means to support a company and the people that work there and if I didn't have Christ I probably would be on pills to calm the nerves. I often wondered how Peter and Paul could face prison, torture and death with grace and love and now I think I understand. Jesus had taught them how to love, how to find Him and how to rest in Him. I'm sure like all humans there were moments of fear, we all have that but these men knew that their lives weren't about the pleasures of this life. Their lives were meant for so much more.
This week I took one of our new employees to Iowa with me. She is a very courageous young woman. When she was young she made a choice that led her to early motherhood. Fast forward she has three beautiful children and an almost ex-husband. He made a bad choice and she bears the consequences of that choice. We had over 11 hours to be together and it was a wonderful time. I think she understands the power of the cross but wishes God could have saved her from this. I understand and can empathize with her. She wanted to be a good wife and mother and in her mid-twenties she finds herself single with three children under the age of 9.
I guess you could say that her obstacles are high and the walls are tall, but she chooses to live, to love and to move through her pain. She has a heart that won't quit and I hope that God will reward that heart with someone that will cherish it. She is a gem and as long as I'm in her life I will keep remindering her that Jesus is her tower and although we all make bad choices the walls can crumble as long as we look toward Him.
Wishing on a well never got anyone very far. Trusting in Jesus gave a man a son, raised a dead man to life, healed a bleeding woman and gave grace to a Samaritan. I can't think of anything more beautiful than that, can you? So if you're facing a wall go to the tower of strength, mercy and grace. He has powers beyond the imagination. I know that I am going to and as long as I live I will ask Jesus to help me and others see Him for the Savior He is!
I hope today finds you wel and that in all things you find Jesus. Remember to pray for Egypt, Israel, Syria and Palestine, they need our prayers!
Hebrews 11:1 NIV
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance a out what we do not see.
Ephesians 4:1-3 NIV
As prisoners for The Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, how great thou are! The walls of life are scaling higher than the clouds and as long as we concentrate on them all will be lost. The time is now to take back what we have lost and concentrate on our Savior. I know the path will not always be easy but with You we are strong, resilient and powerful. I ask You today to guide the hearts of women everywhere and give them a reason to scale the towers of life. We need You Lord in every area of our lives. Bring a rainbow and a promise of Your light in this darkened world. I love You more than I can say. Bring us closer to You as we seek You and guide our every move towards living, loving, and You. In Jesus Name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
We have been having trouble with the Internet so the boys moved their computers downstairs. I use one of them in the morning to write my blog and now they reside in their rooms. I guess I have to find a new solution so that I can sit and write. You know little obstacles that seem so minor then turn into walls, that's what I have faced all week.
I guess I could let the walls overwhelm me, that would be easy. I'm stubborn though so my nature is to hit the wall head on until it crumbles and normally a portion of it will and the obstacle is more like a rock then a wall. I have hit many walls this week and for the most part they have crumbled, thank goodness. Normally, I wil look for the rainbow but if too many obstacles go up my rainbow turns into a healthy storm full of confusion and anxiety.
I can often turn that anxiety into action but every once in a while it turns the other way. I had a few moments like that this week and then I just stopped my thoughts and asked Jesus to come in and clear my mind. When I look upon Him, I'm often relieved, excited and at peace all at the same time. That's relief! We've talked in the last months about my new responsibilities and the complicated world of small business. It's not easy but it is so rewarding. I now understand what it truly means to support a company and the people that work there and if I didn't have Christ I probably would be on pills to calm the nerves. I often wondered how Peter and Paul could face prison, torture and death with grace and love and now I think I understand. Jesus had taught them how to love, how to find Him and how to rest in Him. I'm sure like all humans there were moments of fear, we all have that but these men knew that their lives weren't about the pleasures of this life. Their lives were meant for so much more.
This week I took one of our new employees to Iowa with me. She is a very courageous young woman. When she was young she made a choice that led her to early motherhood. Fast forward she has three beautiful children and an almost ex-husband. He made a bad choice and she bears the consequences of that choice. We had over 11 hours to be together and it was a wonderful time. I think she understands the power of the cross but wishes God could have saved her from this. I understand and can empathize with her. She wanted to be a good wife and mother and in her mid-twenties she finds herself single with three children under the age of 9.
I guess you could say that her obstacles are high and the walls are tall, but she chooses to live, to love and to move through her pain. She has a heart that won't quit and I hope that God will reward that heart with someone that will cherish it. She is a gem and as long as I'm in her life I will keep remindering her that Jesus is her tower and although we all make bad choices the walls can crumble as long as we look toward Him.
Wishing on a well never got anyone very far. Trusting in Jesus gave a man a son, raised a dead man to life, healed a bleeding woman and gave grace to a Samaritan. I can't think of anything more beautiful than that, can you? So if you're facing a wall go to the tower of strength, mercy and grace. He has powers beyond the imagination. I know that I am going to and as long as I live I will ask Jesus to help me and others see Him for the Savior He is!
I hope today finds you wel and that in all things you find Jesus. Remember to pray for Egypt, Israel, Syria and Palestine, they need our prayers!
Hebrews 11:1 NIV
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance a out what we do not see.
Ephesians 4:1-3 NIV
As prisoners for The Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, how great thou are! The walls of life are scaling higher than the clouds and as long as we concentrate on them all will be lost. The time is now to take back what we have lost and concentrate on our Savior. I know the path will not always be easy but with You we are strong, resilient and powerful. I ask You today to guide the hearts of women everywhere and give them a reason to scale the towers of life. We need You Lord in every area of our lives. Bring a rainbow and a promise of Your light in this darkened world. I love You more than I can say. Bring us closer to You as we seek You and guide our every move towards living, loving, and You. In Jesus Name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Sunday, September 22, 2013
September 22, 2013
Good morning all-
A whole week has passed and many blessings have occurred. I just want to take a moment to thank Jesus for being in my life! I know that all successes come through Him and I believe In Him!
That brings me to today's blog. I was reading this weekend that the Pope is rocking the Catholic Church with tones of change. On top of that the Pentecostals' are in an uproar over tongues in the church. Really? We are now debating religious principles over the true meaning of Christianity. It sounds like the Pharisees all over again to me. Do we need to be debating religious beliefs over the love of Christ. Was His sacrifice for not?
I would love a day when the headline read "All for Christ." Now that would be a change this world should read about, don't you think? Instead we debate politics within religion. I realize it's hard to change a philosophy but isn't that what Paul did? He let the theology of Judaism fall from him so that He could embrace Christ. I'm sure that wasn't easy and yet He saw the value in it.
Now going to church and plugging in isn't a bad thing. Actually, we are called to be a body. However, if we are going to debate anything, we should be debating who Christ was, what He means to us and why the cross is the most significant event in History. Instead we debate philosophy.
I don't care about the theology behind the religion; I care about Jesus. Our focus should be on Him and He will take care of the rest. It is not religion that is perfect; it's HIM! If you doubt me, read your Bible and see for yourself. The lamb was slain so that we would be with Him. So, why are we wasting valuable advertising on philosophy? Because it's in the best interest of sin to spin confusion and arguments around things that just don't matter.
Jesus is the reason for everything and its our job to spread the word. He is calling and although we can't correct every debate here on earth, we can proclaim Him and live our lives for Him. Maybe someday soon the world will see the glory of the Lord but until that day, lets quit debating religion and tell people the story of our Savior.
I hope today find s you well and that You see Jesus. I know that this life isn't easy but we are here for a reason. Tell everyone you know that Jesus is your Father and through Him you are saved. We aren't perfect and yet we are so loved. If you need prayer, please reach out and I will be glad to pray. Also, please pray that women will stand up and fight for the next generation!
1 Corinthians 12:27 NIV
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is part of it.
Ephesians 4:4 NIV
There is one body and one spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called;
My prayer today:
O, Lord how I pray that the world would know You. The headlines are confusing the issues and only You can rectify that. The eyes of those that don't know You are being deceived by religion over your sacrifice. Please help the church die to their beliefs and put You in it's place. Once long ago politics won over reason and Your death shows that. We don't want to be Christians that live for a religion. We want to live for You. Help the body join together from every corner of the world. Protect Your churches and make them stand, not for politics but for You! We are sinful creatures and our belief system changes with the times. The only thoughts we should keep are why You died for sinful man, everything else is sinking sand. I love You Lord and my sisters are crying out to You. Help us be faithful and to love those You love. Make us wise and guide our feet as we fight to make You prominent in the lives of the next generation. We need You. In Jesus name, AMEN.
Until tomorrow...
A whole week has passed and many blessings have occurred. I just want to take a moment to thank Jesus for being in my life! I know that all successes come through Him and I believe In Him!
That brings me to today's blog. I was reading this weekend that the Pope is rocking the Catholic Church with tones of change. On top of that the Pentecostals' are in an uproar over tongues in the church. Really? We are now debating religious principles over the true meaning of Christianity. It sounds like the Pharisees all over again to me. Do we need to be debating religious beliefs over the love of Christ. Was His sacrifice for not?
I would love a day when the headline read "All for Christ." Now that would be a change this world should read about, don't you think? Instead we debate politics within religion. I realize it's hard to change a philosophy but isn't that what Paul did? He let the theology of Judaism fall from him so that He could embrace Christ. I'm sure that wasn't easy and yet He saw the value in it.
Now going to church and plugging in isn't a bad thing. Actually, we are called to be a body. However, if we are going to debate anything, we should be debating who Christ was, what He means to us and why the cross is the most significant event in History. Instead we debate philosophy.
I don't care about the theology behind the religion; I care about Jesus. Our focus should be on Him and He will take care of the rest. It is not religion that is perfect; it's HIM! If you doubt me, read your Bible and see for yourself. The lamb was slain so that we would be with Him. So, why are we wasting valuable advertising on philosophy? Because it's in the best interest of sin to spin confusion and arguments around things that just don't matter.
Jesus is the reason for everything and its our job to spread the word. He is calling and although we can't correct every debate here on earth, we can proclaim Him and live our lives for Him. Maybe someday soon the world will see the glory of the Lord but until that day, lets quit debating religion and tell people the story of our Savior.
I hope today find s you well and that You see Jesus. I know that this life isn't easy but we are here for a reason. Tell everyone you know that Jesus is your Father and through Him you are saved. We aren't perfect and yet we are so loved. If you need prayer, please reach out and I will be glad to pray. Also, please pray that women will stand up and fight for the next generation!
1 Corinthians 12:27 NIV
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is part of it.
Ephesians 4:4 NIV
There is one body and one spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called;
My prayer today:
O, Lord how I pray that the world would know You. The headlines are confusing the issues and only You can rectify that. The eyes of those that don't know You are being deceived by religion over your sacrifice. Please help the church die to their beliefs and put You in it's place. Once long ago politics won over reason and Your death shows that. We don't want to be Christians that live for a religion. We want to live for You. Help the body join together from every corner of the world. Protect Your churches and make them stand, not for politics but for You! We are sinful creatures and our belief system changes with the times. The only thoughts we should keep are why You died for sinful man, everything else is sinking sand. I love You Lord and my sisters are crying out to You. Help us be faithful and to love those You love. Make us wise and guide our feet as we fight to make You prominent in the lives of the next generation. We need You. In Jesus name, AMEN.
Until tomorrow...
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
September 17, 2013
Good morning all-
I attended a funeral yesterday of the mother of the men who were on the mountain with my brother. As I watched the casket go up to the front, I thought of the pain they must be going through. On a huge screen were pictures that said a thousand words and I thought, what we would all give just to have one more day.
As Natalie Grant's song played I'm in better hands now, my eyes began to tear up. These men have been through so much. They watched as their best friend plummeted thousands of feet, climbed down the wrong side of the mountain to retrieve his body and came home to tell my parents how very sorry they were. It's been 7 years and still the day is etched in their memories. Similar to Matt's death, their mom fell down a flight of stairs and 11 days later was gone.
The pictures alone could have made me cry but the words that her son spoke made tears come more readily. He talked of a sacrificial mom who worked full time as a nurse but would bake and sew and give whenever her sons asked. She was a kind woman, a strong woman and a woman who would leave a legacy. Neither one of her sons are married or have children yet but I bet after yesterday they are thinking about making the plunge and leaving their legacy.
As the minister talked about the grace of Jesus all I could think about what she was in heaven with Matt and that they were united and like her son here on earth he would watch over her. Every year, for the last 7 years, Kurt has brought my mom (when she was alive) and me the most beautiful hibiscus. I get one every year and on July 2, 2013 there was the most beautiful pink one sitting on my porch. All I can say is that I wish I could take their pain, I know it well. The fateful day when they pronounce your parent gone for eternity and even though you know they are with God, you mourn just the same.
They will throw themselves into work, just as I have. They will fill endless hours with nonsense just so they don't have to think about how much they miss her and they will have breakthrough moments when they hear her voice. Kurt's letter ended with this, "God has a plan." These were words his mom spoke on many occasions and although they are hard to hear in your grief, God truly has a plan.
In this life there are times we must all suffer loss. It never feels good but somehow it can make us stronger, more loving and give us greater faith that tomorrow the sun will rise and our purpose will be fulfilled.
Our time is now and the call is great. Always take an opportunity to love someone. Today is the only day we can be sure of and even then what if tomorrow never came. I'm challenging myself to leave a legacy like my mom and Kurt's mom. They made love an every day word and they both believed that God truly had a plan. I pray that God would lead you to your purpose and that you would reach out to someone who needs to be loved today. There's enough hurting people in this world to fill several countries. Spread the Gospel, it's the light we all need!
I'm off on another business trip today but I would encourage you to spend some time in Acts. God really does show a piece of His plan. It's where love met the church and the Gospel began to spread through word of mouth and miracles.
Be well my sisters and know I'm praying for you. Please don't forget to pray for Syria and Egypt, there's enough sorrow, fear and war going on there that our prayers are very needed!
Until tomorrow.
(sorry no time to re-read this blog so forgive the errors)
Monday, September 16, 2013
September 15, 2013
Good morning all-
Today I dedicate this blog to every woman that has felt insecure in who they are or in their relationships. It's time we look to The Lord for our worth and understand that insecurity will take away your passion, joy and self-esteem. It will rob you of seeing how you are loved and what you mean to Christ. The world is robbing woman of being women and it's time to take a stand and remember we are the daughters of the Almighty God.
Yesterday, I was talking to a good friend and we found ourselves talking about the breakdown of the family, reversed roles and how the movement to liberate us has also robbed us of security, protection and being cherished as women. We have gained great strides in our careers but at what cost? Was it worth it? In my opinion not really. I have gained success, money and many other benefits from working but I have lost with my children, protection and being cherished for being a woman. I worry about aging and what my future will hold. Many have experienced broken relationships, adultery, abuse and divorce and the cost has been great. Children have suffered, relationships have suffered and generations are suffering. I guess satan really knew how to make the pins fall.
And when you look at the canvas and all the many ways our roles have changed it adds up to competition between men and women, insecurity in relationships and a lack of trust. Not very positive if you ask me. That's where Christ must come in and meet us where we are. We must find our roles and our purpose in Him. He can reverse the hurt, take away competitiveness and bring forth restoration in our hearts and our relationships.
The Bible is clear that we are in the end times. When our last day will be, I haven't a clue. But I do know one thing, people are dying in the Middle East for their faith, chaos is erupting around the world and people are looking for something but not for Jesus. Our purpose is to be the lights of the world. We need to understand that the Ancient of Days is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. As flawed human beings we will make choices that go against what we know to be true but if we have faith that God can do what He says, our faith will grow and He will receive glory.
Let's take back what we've lost and ask God to restore women to the purpose He had for us. Let's pray for the men and ask God to make them men that seek after Him and let's pray for our children that they find Him, not because we love Him but because they choose to love Him too. There is no better time to look for Christ and to find Him in our insecurities. He made us and knew us in the womb. He knows are direction and He knows the time that direction will be fulfilled. Let's take off the cloak of fear and put on the armor of Christ!
I hope today this blog reveals something that you have been hiding. I hope you confess your insecurity to our Lord and I hope that you come to realize that being a woman is a beautiful and powerful role. Adam was lonely without Eve and God made communion between man and woman to solidify His plans. Not all will marry but I bet within your life there has been a man that made you stand up and feel like a warrior. Be that woman today and fight the good fight. Jesus is waiting for us to reveal Him to the world. Are you ready?
Matthew 18:20 NIV
For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them."
I'm running out of time...I'll be back tonight.
Today I dedicate this blog to every woman that has felt insecure in who they are or in their relationships. It's time we look to The Lord for our worth and understand that insecurity will take away your passion, joy and self-esteem. It will rob you of seeing how you are loved and what you mean to Christ. The world is robbing woman of being women and it's time to take a stand and remember we are the daughters of the Almighty God.
Yesterday, I was talking to a good friend and we found ourselves talking about the breakdown of the family, reversed roles and how the movement to liberate us has also robbed us of security, protection and being cherished as women. We have gained great strides in our careers but at what cost? Was it worth it? In my opinion not really. I have gained success, money and many other benefits from working but I have lost with my children, protection and being cherished for being a woman. I worry about aging and what my future will hold. Many have experienced broken relationships, adultery, abuse and divorce and the cost has been great. Children have suffered, relationships have suffered and generations are suffering. I guess satan really knew how to make the pins fall.
And when you look at the canvas and all the many ways our roles have changed it adds up to competition between men and women, insecurity in relationships and a lack of trust. Not very positive if you ask me. That's where Christ must come in and meet us where we are. We must find our roles and our purpose in Him. He can reverse the hurt, take away competitiveness and bring forth restoration in our hearts and our relationships.
The Bible is clear that we are in the end times. When our last day will be, I haven't a clue. But I do know one thing, people are dying in the Middle East for their faith, chaos is erupting around the world and people are looking for something but not for Jesus. Our purpose is to be the lights of the world. We need to understand that the Ancient of Days is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. As flawed human beings we will make choices that go against what we know to be true but if we have faith that God can do what He says, our faith will grow and He will receive glory.
Let's take back what we've lost and ask God to restore women to the purpose He had for us. Let's pray for the men and ask God to make them men that seek after Him and let's pray for our children that they find Him, not because we love Him but because they choose to love Him too. There is no better time to look for Christ and to find Him in our insecurities. He made us and knew us in the womb. He knows are direction and He knows the time that direction will be fulfilled. Let's take off the cloak of fear and put on the armor of Christ!
I hope today this blog reveals something that you have been hiding. I hope you confess your insecurity to our Lord and I hope that you come to realize that being a woman is a beautiful and powerful role. Adam was lonely without Eve and God made communion between man and woman to solidify His plans. Not all will marry but I bet within your life there has been a man that made you stand up and feel like a warrior. Be that woman today and fight the good fight. Jesus is waiting for us to reveal Him to the world. Are you ready?
Matthew 18:20 NIV
For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them."
I'm running out of time...I'll be back tonight.
Saturday, September 14, 2013
September 14,2013
Good morning all-
I'm up before the sun has risen after a great nights sleep. I was so deep asleep that I had many dreams I just can't remember. However, I woke with this memory and can't quite figure out if it means anything but I thought you would enjoy it.
I was in a field, which I think was wheat, it was tall and I could barely see. I began to walk out and as I did there were two wolves, one was eating something and the other was looking at me. I remember thinking if I walk towards them they will flee. Instead they watched me as I walked out onto the street. I could feel the relief when I looked up and standing in the road was a great lion and then, I woke up!
The thing is I remember admiring the lion and wanting to gaze at him but I didn't get to because my eyes opened and the day began. Crazy, right. I have a lot of dreams,vivid,colorful and often frightening. I'm used to waking up with my heart beating and tears in my eyes. I have to say I don't remember a dream like this one in my entire life. It was so vivid that I actually wondered what the lion wanted from me. It was right out of a C.S. Lewis novel.
The lion has always fascinated me. They are powerful, mighty animals. If you've ever watched them in a zoo, they lay around and roar when necessary. They exhibit power and majesty and when I picture God, I often think of Him as a lion. Weird, I know but they are such powerful creatures and it's obvious that their creation resembles our God.
God is characterized many ways in the Bible. The lamb is a word picture for Christ and the sacrifice He made. In the Old Testament I love to read about being protected under an eagles wings and then of course there are passages about a lion. The eagle is another very majestic creature. It soars high over the trees and loves very high places. It is considered a beautifully majestic bird. It's known for its hunting ability and its beauty. Whether we are discussing the lion or the eagle, they represent strength, power and majesty. What do these characteristics have in common? Isn't that how the Bible describes our Maker. We may not be able to see Him but life around us paints a picture of His majesty. We just have to be willing to look for Him in His perfect design.
I still have no idea what my dream means, probably nothing at all. However, I would like to believe for a moment that was God watching over me and reminding me that even though wolves are all around, He's near and watching over me, providing safe passage. And when I'm still, I will see Him in all His glory. At least that was the first thing I thought of when I woke up. Evil is all around but the glory of Christ is rising, people are finding Him and we are seeking to know our Maker.
If you don't know Jesus, call out to Him today. Shame, anger, resentment, depression, and failure will wash away as you ask Jesus into your life. He loves you, not because you're perfect but because you're not. There is no religion that can match a relationship with Jesus Christ. Not only is He powerful; He's forgiveness personified. On a cross He sacrificed His life to bear your sins. No other prophet can claim that. We are selfish, He was not. Christ is powerful! Call to Him today, it will be the most powerful call you have ever made! I promise.
Hosea 5:14 NIV
For I will be like a lion to Ephraim, like a great lion to Judah. I will tear them to pieces and go away; I will carry them off, with no one to rescue them.
Job 10: 16 NIV
If I hold my head high, you stalk me like a lion and again display your awesome power against me.
Isaiah 31:4 NIV
This is what the Lord says to me: "As a lion growls, a great lion over its prey--and through a whole band of shepherds is called together against it, it is not frightened by their shouts or disturbed by their clamor--so the Lord Almighty will come down to do battle on Mount Zion and on its heights.
Daniel 7:4 NIV
"The first was like a lion, and it had the wings of an eagle. I watched until its wings were torn off and it was lifted from the ground so that it stood on two feet like a human being, and the mind of a human was given to it.
Pay attention to the last Scripture, now that is a word picture if I ever saw one! Mighty is He! Be well my sisters and hear His call.
My prayer today:
O, Lord my God how great thou are! I think I saw you in my dream today and will forever hold the feeling of peace and being watched over near to my heart. I know that challenges await and being part of Your army is not easy. I also know that there are many that are hurting today and looking for answers in all the wrong places. I'm looking toward You to guide their every step and bring them closer to You. My life had no meaning before You and it would mean nothing without You. Thank You for reminding me that Your majesty is all around and when I look, I find You. My dream is just another word picture of Your caring spirit to my soul. I can persevere as long as I know You are near. Please continue to be our beacon and watcher as we ride the seas. Be with us when we are weary and hold us when we are destitute. Our course is set and there is only One that can guide us. So as I state I am Your servant, guide me, O, Lord and watch over my days as I come closer to knowing You. Take care of my sisters, watch over our children and help our spouses to be strong men of faith. Guide them to love us better and help us be the women You need to further the generations. I am Yours! In Jesus Name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
I'm up before the sun has risen after a great nights sleep. I was so deep asleep that I had many dreams I just can't remember. However, I woke with this memory and can't quite figure out if it means anything but I thought you would enjoy it.
I was in a field, which I think was wheat, it was tall and I could barely see. I began to walk out and as I did there were two wolves, one was eating something and the other was looking at me. I remember thinking if I walk towards them they will flee. Instead they watched me as I walked out onto the street. I could feel the relief when I looked up and standing in the road was a great lion and then, I woke up!
The thing is I remember admiring the lion and wanting to gaze at him but I didn't get to because my eyes opened and the day began. Crazy, right. I have a lot of dreams,vivid,colorful and often frightening. I'm used to waking up with my heart beating and tears in my eyes. I have to say I don't remember a dream like this one in my entire life. It was so vivid that I actually wondered what the lion wanted from me. It was right out of a C.S. Lewis novel.
The lion has always fascinated me. They are powerful, mighty animals. If you've ever watched them in a zoo, they lay around and roar when necessary. They exhibit power and majesty and when I picture God, I often think of Him as a lion. Weird, I know but they are such powerful creatures and it's obvious that their creation resembles our God.
God is characterized many ways in the Bible. The lamb is a word picture for Christ and the sacrifice He made. In the Old Testament I love to read about being protected under an eagles wings and then of course there are passages about a lion. The eagle is another very majestic creature. It soars high over the trees and loves very high places. It is considered a beautifully majestic bird. It's known for its hunting ability and its beauty. Whether we are discussing the lion or the eagle, they represent strength, power and majesty. What do these characteristics have in common? Isn't that how the Bible describes our Maker. We may not be able to see Him but life around us paints a picture of His majesty. We just have to be willing to look for Him in His perfect design.
I still have no idea what my dream means, probably nothing at all. However, I would like to believe for a moment that was God watching over me and reminding me that even though wolves are all around, He's near and watching over me, providing safe passage. And when I'm still, I will see Him in all His glory. At least that was the first thing I thought of when I woke up. Evil is all around but the glory of Christ is rising, people are finding Him and we are seeking to know our Maker.
If you don't know Jesus, call out to Him today. Shame, anger, resentment, depression, and failure will wash away as you ask Jesus into your life. He loves you, not because you're perfect but because you're not. There is no religion that can match a relationship with Jesus Christ. Not only is He powerful; He's forgiveness personified. On a cross He sacrificed His life to bear your sins. No other prophet can claim that. We are selfish, He was not. Christ is powerful! Call to Him today, it will be the most powerful call you have ever made! I promise.
Hosea 5:14 NIV
For I will be like a lion to Ephraim, like a great lion to Judah. I will tear them to pieces and go away; I will carry them off, with no one to rescue them.
Job 10: 16 NIV
If I hold my head high, you stalk me like a lion and again display your awesome power against me.
Isaiah 31:4 NIV
This is what the Lord says to me: "As a lion growls, a great lion over its prey--and through a whole band of shepherds is called together against it, it is not frightened by their shouts or disturbed by their clamor--so the Lord Almighty will come down to do battle on Mount Zion and on its heights.
Daniel 7:4 NIV
"The first was like a lion, and it had the wings of an eagle. I watched until its wings were torn off and it was lifted from the ground so that it stood on two feet like a human being, and the mind of a human was given to it.
Pay attention to the last Scripture, now that is a word picture if I ever saw one! Mighty is He! Be well my sisters and hear His call.
My prayer today:
O, Lord my God how great thou are! I think I saw you in my dream today and will forever hold the feeling of peace and being watched over near to my heart. I know that challenges await and being part of Your army is not easy. I also know that there are many that are hurting today and looking for answers in all the wrong places. I'm looking toward You to guide their every step and bring them closer to You. My life had no meaning before You and it would mean nothing without You. Thank You for reminding me that Your majesty is all around and when I look, I find You. My dream is just another word picture of Your caring spirit to my soul. I can persevere as long as I know You are near. Please continue to be our beacon and watcher as we ride the seas. Be with us when we are weary and hold us when we are destitute. Our course is set and there is only One that can guide us. So as I state I am Your servant, guide me, O, Lord and watch over my days as I come closer to knowing You. Take care of my sisters, watch over our children and help our spouses to be strong men of faith. Guide them to love us better and help us be the women You need to further the generations. I am Yours! In Jesus Name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Friday, September 13, 2013
September 13, 2013
Good morning all-
This morning I woke up at 5:00 am, got in the shower, let the dogs out and then looked at my phone. My son had left me a text that he needed some clothes washed (I think it's time he started doing his own). Anyway, as I started toward the bathroom to do my hair, I peaked to the table and saw the biggest disaster ever. I guess he thought that if he rummaged through the laundry basket, magically all his clothes would appear. He got a shock!
It's funny how kids wait to the last minute to get themselves together. Instead of looking for clothes when he got home at 7, he waited until I went to bed at 10. And then of course, my men think that laundry takes only 30 minutes to wash and dry and again I say it's time for me to teach him how to do his laundry.
I think the other part that makes me laugh to myself is that he threw in I'm almost 18 years old and I'm a man yesterday. See he wants to go see his cousins in Kansas City and whenever he feels like he's a man, he is. (Again it's time to teach him how to do laundry!)
My youngest son is a tornado. He can wreck a room in 15 minutes or less and eventually he can clean it to a sparkling state in about 30 minutes. He's always been like that and I guess it may not change. Oh, do I feel sorry for his future wife! Anyway, seeing all this bright and early reminded me how much we wait, stall and put off what we could do today. He knew he was going to KC and yet, he felt the need to wait until I went to bed to prepare. I'm sure you know people like that. They love to put off things and to be honest, I like to put off difficult things so maybe that's where he got it from. I only like to touch things once and then, I know I've done it right. That's just not always the best mode of operation. I'm sure you're getting my meaning.
My thought is we are all the same way with God. We get busy and life rolls into a big ball of matter. We move on the giant roller coaster until we fall in our beds dead from the work we have done and then we get back up and get back on that coaster. It's full of fury and in the midst, where is God? Well, He's waiting for us to be still. I can't think of one time the Bible talks about Jesus racing around trying to get kids to sports, meeting friends for dinner and a movie or just not making time for His father. Before, during and after any great event, Jesus went to His father, prayed and asked for direction. He even would seek out the mountain to be as closest and as still as possible to God.
I'm just like you. I lead a busy life with lots of responsibility. I am constantly checking email, taking phone calls, making dinner and cleaning up. It's an every day routine for me. Guess what I don't always do? You guessed it! I don't always find a place to be still, read my Bible and pray. For the most part, I try but often if work, family or responsibilities get to tough, Christ is the one thing that suffers and I'm ashamed to admit it but I'm sure you all have experienced times like this. That's why I feel so blessed when I wake at 5 am so I can sit and convene with Christ. It's the best part of my day and it energizes me more than a B vitamin. My time with Christ gives me all the energy I need to complete the tasks before me. And when I'm still, I feel His holy presence!
Whether your a procrastinator like my son or you just find other things that occupy your day, I would like to challenge you to sit still with God for 20 minutes and ask Him to come into you and guide you. That 20 minutes could be exactly what you need to forge a mountain, swim an ocean or simply take care of something that has been needing to get done. We our are own worst enemy. The world was built to distract us from the One who can save us. Just ask anyone what they felt like, walked like or did before they found Christ. They probably resembled my table this morning. A bunch of everything, going in no direction, spilled out, washed up and completely out of control! That's what my table looked like and that's what I resembled before I found Christ.
The best part of any day for me is when I get to sit here and write. It's my time to let the Holy Spirit flow through my fingers and into the hearts of His women. It's my time to be taught and to hear from Him. And it's our time to come together from other nations and pray for one another. We are one through Jesus and we will remain one as long as we take the time to feed our souls. The Bible and Scripture are there so we can convene with Christ, know Him and fall more in love with Him. If your day is so chaotic that you don't know which way is up then you probably haven't taken time to love Jesus today, let alone yourself. Having energy to spread the gospel takes patience, desire and being still. How is God supposed to get through if your mind is on everything but Him!
I pray today is the day you choose to sit with Him and see His hand for what it is. I hope He guides you and shows you the importance of taking minutes out of your day to be still. If we only have 5 minutes, it's better than none. Our God is powerful and remember He is jealous so try to take some time in your day to build a holy relationship. All the works in the world don't add up to spending time in the presence of our Lord! May today find you well and know that I'm praying that God does mighty things in your life. My greatest desire is to meet the women that read this blog. I can't speak most of your languages but I can love you and build a relationship with you through my prayers.
Take care my sisters and give Christ a moment of your time!
John 7:6 NIV
Therefore Jesus told them, "My time is not yet here; for you any time will do.
Luke 11:3 NIV
Give us each day our daily bread.
My prayer today:
O, Lord take off the shackles of busyness and bind us to you. We seek events, work, family, and service instead of stillness, peace and relationship with you. Our minds are on what needs to be done instead on how we can find more time to be with you. We spend time reading, in front of the television or just on anything but You and we find time. My prayer today is that we would find a slot for You in our every day lives and that we would ask You into our lives. I am in fault too. I often find myself saying how busy I am or how tired I am and that's probably because I haven't fed my soul with the power of the cross. Lead me to You my blessed Savior and lead my sisters to You too. Feed us as we seek You and bring us closer to You. Take the chaos of this world and replace it with peace beyond understanding. The world is hurting, we are in need of a Savior and although You are not physically here, You are spiritually. I pray that every woman that touches this blog will seek You more and find that being in relationship with You precedes all other things in their lives. I pray that You will bless the woman that find You and that You will begin to make us great leaders for You. In Jesus Name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
This morning I woke up at 5:00 am, got in the shower, let the dogs out and then looked at my phone. My son had left me a text that he needed some clothes washed (I think it's time he started doing his own). Anyway, as I started toward the bathroom to do my hair, I peaked to the table and saw the biggest disaster ever. I guess he thought that if he rummaged through the laundry basket, magically all his clothes would appear. He got a shock!
It's funny how kids wait to the last minute to get themselves together. Instead of looking for clothes when he got home at 7, he waited until I went to bed at 10. And then of course, my men think that laundry takes only 30 minutes to wash and dry and again I say it's time for me to teach him how to do his laundry.
I think the other part that makes me laugh to myself is that he threw in I'm almost 18 years old and I'm a man yesterday. See he wants to go see his cousins in Kansas City and whenever he feels like he's a man, he is. (Again it's time to teach him how to do laundry!)
My youngest son is a tornado. He can wreck a room in 15 minutes or less and eventually he can clean it to a sparkling state in about 30 minutes. He's always been like that and I guess it may not change. Oh, do I feel sorry for his future wife! Anyway, seeing all this bright and early reminded me how much we wait, stall and put off what we could do today. He knew he was going to KC and yet, he felt the need to wait until I went to bed to prepare. I'm sure you know people like that. They love to put off things and to be honest, I like to put off difficult things so maybe that's where he got it from. I only like to touch things once and then, I know I've done it right. That's just not always the best mode of operation. I'm sure you're getting my meaning.
My thought is we are all the same way with God. We get busy and life rolls into a big ball of matter. We move on the giant roller coaster until we fall in our beds dead from the work we have done and then we get back up and get back on that coaster. It's full of fury and in the midst, where is God? Well, He's waiting for us to be still. I can't think of one time the Bible talks about Jesus racing around trying to get kids to sports, meeting friends for dinner and a movie or just not making time for His father. Before, during and after any great event, Jesus went to His father, prayed and asked for direction. He even would seek out the mountain to be as closest and as still as possible to God.
I'm just like you. I lead a busy life with lots of responsibility. I am constantly checking email, taking phone calls, making dinner and cleaning up. It's an every day routine for me. Guess what I don't always do? You guessed it! I don't always find a place to be still, read my Bible and pray. For the most part, I try but often if work, family or responsibilities get to tough, Christ is the one thing that suffers and I'm ashamed to admit it but I'm sure you all have experienced times like this. That's why I feel so blessed when I wake at 5 am so I can sit and convene with Christ. It's the best part of my day and it energizes me more than a B vitamin. My time with Christ gives me all the energy I need to complete the tasks before me. And when I'm still, I feel His holy presence!
Whether your a procrastinator like my son or you just find other things that occupy your day, I would like to challenge you to sit still with God for 20 minutes and ask Him to come into you and guide you. That 20 minutes could be exactly what you need to forge a mountain, swim an ocean or simply take care of something that has been needing to get done. We our are own worst enemy. The world was built to distract us from the One who can save us. Just ask anyone what they felt like, walked like or did before they found Christ. They probably resembled my table this morning. A bunch of everything, going in no direction, spilled out, washed up and completely out of control! That's what my table looked like and that's what I resembled before I found Christ.
The best part of any day for me is when I get to sit here and write. It's my time to let the Holy Spirit flow through my fingers and into the hearts of His women. It's my time to be taught and to hear from Him. And it's our time to come together from other nations and pray for one another. We are one through Jesus and we will remain one as long as we take the time to feed our souls. The Bible and Scripture are there so we can convene with Christ, know Him and fall more in love with Him. If your day is so chaotic that you don't know which way is up then you probably haven't taken time to love Jesus today, let alone yourself. Having energy to spread the gospel takes patience, desire and being still. How is God supposed to get through if your mind is on everything but Him!
I pray today is the day you choose to sit with Him and see His hand for what it is. I hope He guides you and shows you the importance of taking minutes out of your day to be still. If we only have 5 minutes, it's better than none. Our God is powerful and remember He is jealous so try to take some time in your day to build a holy relationship. All the works in the world don't add up to spending time in the presence of our Lord! May today find you well and know that I'm praying that God does mighty things in your life. My greatest desire is to meet the women that read this blog. I can't speak most of your languages but I can love you and build a relationship with you through my prayers.
Take care my sisters and give Christ a moment of your time!
John 7:6 NIV
Therefore Jesus told them, "My time is not yet here; for you any time will do.
Luke 11:3 NIV
Give us each day our daily bread.
My prayer today:
O, Lord take off the shackles of busyness and bind us to you. We seek events, work, family, and service instead of stillness, peace and relationship with you. Our minds are on what needs to be done instead on how we can find more time to be with you. We spend time reading, in front of the television or just on anything but You and we find time. My prayer today is that we would find a slot for You in our every day lives and that we would ask You into our lives. I am in fault too. I often find myself saying how busy I am or how tired I am and that's probably because I haven't fed my soul with the power of the cross. Lead me to You my blessed Savior and lead my sisters to You too. Feed us as we seek You and bring us closer to You. Take the chaos of this world and replace it with peace beyond understanding. The world is hurting, we are in need of a Savior and although You are not physically here, You are spiritually. I pray that every woman that touches this blog will seek You more and find that being in relationship with You precedes all other things in their lives. I pray that You will bless the woman that find You and that You will begin to make us great leaders for You. In Jesus Name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Thursday, September 12, 2013
September 12, 2013
Good morning all-
Well it's been a whole week since last I've written. So much has happened this week. My niece was born the same day as a lovely soul went to heaven. Have you ever noticed as one soul leaves another comes in?
Life is precious and when we cherish our moments I believe we see God more clearly. I know that every moment I can make someone smile or praise them for a job well done I've done what Christ asks of me. He wants us to love one another. We don't know how much time we have but we do know that when we love someone, we feel Christ more.
There is a circle of life. It was born out of the hands of God and no matter what we say or do, life begins in the womb and ends when God chooses. We can debate how we got here, where we came from or we can look at the truth. We were created to fulfill a purpose and our time here on earth is set. It's what we choose why we're here that makes the difference.
I hope you're doing well and that God is revealing Himself as you seek Him. Contemplate your birth and what God is asking you to do to show His love!
Psalm 22:10 NIV
From birth I was cast on you; from my mother's womb you have been my God.
Cherish the moments and make memories that last forever. Christ is real and He loves you!
Well it's been a whole week since last I've written. So much has happened this week. My niece was born the same day as a lovely soul went to heaven. Have you ever noticed as one soul leaves another comes in?
Life is precious and when we cherish our moments I believe we see God more clearly. I know that every moment I can make someone smile or praise them for a job well done I've done what Christ asks of me. He wants us to love one another. We don't know how much time we have but we do know that when we love someone, we feel Christ more.
There is a circle of life. It was born out of the hands of God and no matter what we say or do, life begins in the womb and ends when God chooses. We can debate how we got here, where we came from or we can look at the truth. We were created to fulfill a purpose and our time here on earth is set. It's what we choose why we're here that makes the difference.
I hope you're doing well and that God is revealing Himself as you seek Him. Contemplate your birth and what God is asking you to do to show His love!
Psalm 22:10 NIV
From birth I was cast on you; from my mother's womb you have been my God.
Cherish the moments and make memories that last forever. Christ is real and He loves you!
Sunday, September 8, 2013
September 8, 2013
Good morning all-
I was running errands yesterday, trying to find jeans for a giant and getting his beautiful main cut, when I had a moment to read some of the words I have written over the last couple of days. It's amazing when I read back and wonder, "Who wrote that?" The words come pouring out almost as if I'm not even writing them. My words have carried strong messages of my love for Jesus Christ lately and with those words I realize that my hope has strengthened, my heart has expanded and my need for Him has grown. Also, in return, my faith has been tested, mightily!
I have often spoken of the tumult I have right here in my own home. How to be a good wife? I struggle with that more than anything else in my life. I have married a man who doesn't mind me being strong. However, my strength means that he doesn't have to be. I often understand how our men feel when we are wishy washy, don't talk to them about our feelings, and struggle to forgive. He can recant what he believes I have done against him months after they occur. I don't understand it because I try to forgive and move forward. Men do that, they fight and then it goes away. The hurt does not build up and break like a river going over the banks. I know that most women work this way because I have talked to them about forgiveness and moving on. I learned long ago that if I was to have any kind of marriage I would have to forgive, forget and build on what I have today, not what happened a year ago.
Living with someone, man or woman, who holds their feelings inside, resents and recants old hurts is very difficult. Their frustration with you can build to a point you don't even want to be in the same room with them. You wait for the attack because the attack will come and you hope you can stay faithful through the next battle. It's not always easy and I don't always stay faithful. When I was young, it was easy to forgive because I love the idea of love, commitment and family. I love the idea of growing old together and guiding one another to the end. I watched my parents do that and it was beautiful. That's not to say they didn't get frustrated and angry with one another but their love was far deeper than I have experienced. It was a sense that without one, there couldn't be the other. I know that's why my mom finally let go because the thought of losing my dad was greater than leaving us.
Satan loves to destroy marriage and family. I think it's the fabric by which evil is built. If you can destroy love, trust and faith, then what do you have left? I often cried out to God asking Him to heal my marriage and to show me the way. He was trying but we were failing. Our hurt and pain were more important than finding Christ in the middle of it. That doesn't mean that all marriages will stay together, especially when there is tremendous abuse. I'm not talking about striking a woman; I'm talking about working through hard issues and not letting your feelings get in the way.
As I have gotten older, I have become much stronger and more thoughtful. I have looked for Christ in difficult times and not expected a miracle but more of a gentle guiding. My prayer is often, not to be rash but to be obedient to Christ. It's hard to do that when you would rather be anywhere than in the presence of the one you love. Life was never given to us to run from it. It was given to face our circumstances and find God in them and through them. What happens when selfishness outweighs obedience? Well, I think you know but just in case here are just a few things that occur: divorce, adultery, abuse, lying, fighting and the eventual destruction of love. Take a look at those six things and see what God calls the greatest of all. Doesn't he speak on love? And isn't love destroyed when people let us down, aren't honest and continually and intentionally cause pain for their own satisfaction. I don't think anyone intends to hurt someone else but our world is about destruction, not about love.
I went to bed thinking on this and wondering why I am always facing obedience over my own feelings. That doesn't mean I always handle every situation with grace, far from it. However, when the fire is hot, I know it because thoughts that shouldn't be in my head come crashing in and the last thing I think of before I fall asleep is, "What would Jesus do?" If you read your Bible, you already know. He died for a man that betrayed Him, He had nails put in His hands for a man that denied Him and He carried the sins of nations so that all of us, even 2,000 years later could have eternity. Really? And I'm worried about how my husband and I are going to get through the next 24 hours?
Love holds the key but love is not a feeling. No where in the Bible does it talk of romantic love, except in the Song of Solomon and even then, we all know that Solomon married women that had different belief systems and did not always stay true to his God. I, once, believed that I would get married, have kids and live happily ever after. I watched Cinderella more times than I would like to admit. I waited and believed that God would provide my prince and that I would be forever loved. Wow! Even writing that makes me think that was naive!
God has taught me different over the years. He has taken my hand and expanded my definition of love. He has taken the blinders off to romantic love and given me a greater desire to know His love. He has wiped the slate clean of a little girls fantasy and raised me up to see what real love is. It's not a fairy tale, that doesn't mean that some of you haven't experienced a great love, one that fulfills you in every way, it just means that love is not a feeling, its a commitment.
I question often if I have what it takes to walk in obedience, especially in a world full of self-gratification. Can I continue to understand and be wise in my intimate relationships? Wouldn't it be easier to give up? And then, I meditate on Jesus. Wouldn't it have been easier for Him to give up? I doubt He really wanted to sacrifice His life on a cross? From personal experience, most people wouldn't volunteer for that role. We sacrifice and many have lost their lives for their country but contemplating being hung on a cross, a slow death and nails in my hands and feet would make me flee and hide. Not Jesus. He stood strong, went and prayed and cried out to His Father. He asked for His cup to be spared but in the end His love for us won out. He carried our burdens, was beaten for our iniquities and paid the price for us. Put that way, I really don't have much to cry about.
His love has shown me time and time again that I must be obedient to His word. I must trust in Him and in the end, I will see His hand. I might not like what is happening and I may want to flee but in the end, the only solution is to look for Him and pray that He will keep me on course. My feelings really don't play apart in His commission but my obedience does. Loving isn't easy just look at the people Jesus has saved. You think loving us is easy? We are stubborn, self-absorbed, greedy, dissatisfied people. Would you die for that?
I've probably gone on and on today but my heart is open wide. Love is so important and it means so much more than we believe. Love is sacrifice! The question remains, are we willing to sacrifice our desires for His love? I pray that the fire never gets so great that I forget this. I hope you are doing well and that God is showing you His commitment and love for the broken. May He spread His wings throughout this world and bring people forth that abandon their feelings for true, eternal love. Be obedient to Him today and let Him carry your burdens, so that you can spread His love.
Psalm 56:3 NIV:
When I am afraid, I put my trust in You.
Hebrews 5:7-10 NIV:
During the days of Jesus' life on earth, He offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the One who could save Him from death, and He was heard because of His reverent submission. Son though He was, He learned obedience from what He suffered and, once made perfect, He became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him and was designated by God to be high priest in the order of Melchizedek.
2 John 1:6 NIV:
And this is love: that we walk in obedience to His commands. As you have heard from the beginning, His command is that you walk in love.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, I come before You seeking obedience over desire. If I had my way, I would flee far and long. But as I stand before You, all I can think about is the sacrifice You made for me. When the choice was Yours to flee or remain faithful, You chose us over You. The world would have me believe that my desires are more important than sacrifice. We both know that is a lie. For Your life stands as a testimony that faith, love and obedience are the only way. I know that I often come to You with my desires and often, I don't see them being granted. I can't say that I never question why because I do. The greatest thing about being with You is seeing Your hand in all that I do. You may not fix my problem today but I have faith that I am growing to know You better. I believe that many face trials and wonder where You are in their lives. How many times has a woman questioned why they aren't loved or why they have to carry the burden of Cancer or worse, why a child was taken from them? These are just a few of the many things we face here on earth and yet, I'm inclined to proclaim that You are in control and that Your glory will reign. If all of this was for me to see You, then let me see You brighter and bolder than I have before. If the fire is so hot that I'm refined, let that carry to others and illustrate what true love is and not the fantasy that we all wish for. Help all of us to stay obedient to Your word and look for You in every circumstance. Like the birds who sing to You, may we sing not just in love but in obedience. Please help us to be more like You, to refine us to love when we don't feel it and to give of ourselves when there is nothing left to give. I am trying to purge my feelings so that the only thing that stands in my mind is my obedience to You. Being obedient means that I must surrender my desires to my King. I do that today and ask that I will be likeminded with You. The world dictates what we should think about which is what's best for me, while the power of the cross speaks the truth. It was by Your obedience that we carry the love of a Father. It was by the nails that we have grace and it was by Your sacrifice we have eternal life. Please keep those at the forefront of my mind so that I can carry that with me. I know that my loss is Your gain so if I must lose to win You; I choose You! For every moment of pain I pray You reveal Yourself to this world. Remind us that Your commitment was our reward! In Jesus Name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
I was running errands yesterday, trying to find jeans for a giant and getting his beautiful main cut, when I had a moment to read some of the words I have written over the last couple of days. It's amazing when I read back and wonder, "Who wrote that?" The words come pouring out almost as if I'm not even writing them. My words have carried strong messages of my love for Jesus Christ lately and with those words I realize that my hope has strengthened, my heart has expanded and my need for Him has grown. Also, in return, my faith has been tested, mightily!
I have often spoken of the tumult I have right here in my own home. How to be a good wife? I struggle with that more than anything else in my life. I have married a man who doesn't mind me being strong. However, my strength means that he doesn't have to be. I often understand how our men feel when we are wishy washy, don't talk to them about our feelings, and struggle to forgive. He can recant what he believes I have done against him months after they occur. I don't understand it because I try to forgive and move forward. Men do that, they fight and then it goes away. The hurt does not build up and break like a river going over the banks. I know that most women work this way because I have talked to them about forgiveness and moving on. I learned long ago that if I was to have any kind of marriage I would have to forgive, forget and build on what I have today, not what happened a year ago.
Living with someone, man or woman, who holds their feelings inside, resents and recants old hurts is very difficult. Their frustration with you can build to a point you don't even want to be in the same room with them. You wait for the attack because the attack will come and you hope you can stay faithful through the next battle. It's not always easy and I don't always stay faithful. When I was young, it was easy to forgive because I love the idea of love, commitment and family. I love the idea of growing old together and guiding one another to the end. I watched my parents do that and it was beautiful. That's not to say they didn't get frustrated and angry with one another but their love was far deeper than I have experienced. It was a sense that without one, there couldn't be the other. I know that's why my mom finally let go because the thought of losing my dad was greater than leaving us.
Satan loves to destroy marriage and family. I think it's the fabric by which evil is built. If you can destroy love, trust and faith, then what do you have left? I often cried out to God asking Him to heal my marriage and to show me the way. He was trying but we were failing. Our hurt and pain were more important than finding Christ in the middle of it. That doesn't mean that all marriages will stay together, especially when there is tremendous abuse. I'm not talking about striking a woman; I'm talking about working through hard issues and not letting your feelings get in the way.
As I have gotten older, I have become much stronger and more thoughtful. I have looked for Christ in difficult times and not expected a miracle but more of a gentle guiding. My prayer is often, not to be rash but to be obedient to Christ. It's hard to do that when you would rather be anywhere than in the presence of the one you love. Life was never given to us to run from it. It was given to face our circumstances and find God in them and through them. What happens when selfishness outweighs obedience? Well, I think you know but just in case here are just a few things that occur: divorce, adultery, abuse, lying, fighting and the eventual destruction of love. Take a look at those six things and see what God calls the greatest of all. Doesn't he speak on love? And isn't love destroyed when people let us down, aren't honest and continually and intentionally cause pain for their own satisfaction. I don't think anyone intends to hurt someone else but our world is about destruction, not about love.
I went to bed thinking on this and wondering why I am always facing obedience over my own feelings. That doesn't mean I always handle every situation with grace, far from it. However, when the fire is hot, I know it because thoughts that shouldn't be in my head come crashing in and the last thing I think of before I fall asleep is, "What would Jesus do?" If you read your Bible, you already know. He died for a man that betrayed Him, He had nails put in His hands for a man that denied Him and He carried the sins of nations so that all of us, even 2,000 years later could have eternity. Really? And I'm worried about how my husband and I are going to get through the next 24 hours?
Love holds the key but love is not a feeling. No where in the Bible does it talk of romantic love, except in the Song of Solomon and even then, we all know that Solomon married women that had different belief systems and did not always stay true to his God. I, once, believed that I would get married, have kids and live happily ever after. I watched Cinderella more times than I would like to admit. I waited and believed that God would provide my prince and that I would be forever loved. Wow! Even writing that makes me think that was naive!
God has taught me different over the years. He has taken my hand and expanded my definition of love. He has taken the blinders off to romantic love and given me a greater desire to know His love. He has wiped the slate clean of a little girls fantasy and raised me up to see what real love is. It's not a fairy tale, that doesn't mean that some of you haven't experienced a great love, one that fulfills you in every way, it just means that love is not a feeling, its a commitment.
I question often if I have what it takes to walk in obedience, especially in a world full of self-gratification. Can I continue to understand and be wise in my intimate relationships? Wouldn't it be easier to give up? And then, I meditate on Jesus. Wouldn't it have been easier for Him to give up? I doubt He really wanted to sacrifice His life on a cross? From personal experience, most people wouldn't volunteer for that role. We sacrifice and many have lost their lives for their country but contemplating being hung on a cross, a slow death and nails in my hands and feet would make me flee and hide. Not Jesus. He stood strong, went and prayed and cried out to His Father. He asked for His cup to be spared but in the end His love for us won out. He carried our burdens, was beaten for our iniquities and paid the price for us. Put that way, I really don't have much to cry about.
His love has shown me time and time again that I must be obedient to His word. I must trust in Him and in the end, I will see His hand. I might not like what is happening and I may want to flee but in the end, the only solution is to look for Him and pray that He will keep me on course. My feelings really don't play apart in His commission but my obedience does. Loving isn't easy just look at the people Jesus has saved. You think loving us is easy? We are stubborn, self-absorbed, greedy, dissatisfied people. Would you die for that?
I've probably gone on and on today but my heart is open wide. Love is so important and it means so much more than we believe. Love is sacrifice! The question remains, are we willing to sacrifice our desires for His love? I pray that the fire never gets so great that I forget this. I hope you are doing well and that God is showing you His commitment and love for the broken. May He spread His wings throughout this world and bring people forth that abandon their feelings for true, eternal love. Be obedient to Him today and let Him carry your burdens, so that you can spread His love.
Psalm 56:3 NIV:
When I am afraid, I put my trust in You.
Hebrews 5:7-10 NIV:
During the days of Jesus' life on earth, He offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the One who could save Him from death, and He was heard because of His reverent submission. Son though He was, He learned obedience from what He suffered and, once made perfect, He became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him and was designated by God to be high priest in the order of Melchizedek.
2 John 1:6 NIV:
And this is love: that we walk in obedience to His commands. As you have heard from the beginning, His command is that you walk in love.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, I come before You seeking obedience over desire. If I had my way, I would flee far and long. But as I stand before You, all I can think about is the sacrifice You made for me. When the choice was Yours to flee or remain faithful, You chose us over You. The world would have me believe that my desires are more important than sacrifice. We both know that is a lie. For Your life stands as a testimony that faith, love and obedience are the only way. I know that I often come to You with my desires and often, I don't see them being granted. I can't say that I never question why because I do. The greatest thing about being with You is seeing Your hand in all that I do. You may not fix my problem today but I have faith that I am growing to know You better. I believe that many face trials and wonder where You are in their lives. How many times has a woman questioned why they aren't loved or why they have to carry the burden of Cancer or worse, why a child was taken from them? These are just a few of the many things we face here on earth and yet, I'm inclined to proclaim that You are in control and that Your glory will reign. If all of this was for me to see You, then let me see You brighter and bolder than I have before. If the fire is so hot that I'm refined, let that carry to others and illustrate what true love is and not the fantasy that we all wish for. Help all of us to stay obedient to Your word and look for You in every circumstance. Like the birds who sing to You, may we sing not just in love but in obedience. Please help us to be more like You, to refine us to love when we don't feel it and to give of ourselves when there is nothing left to give. I am trying to purge my feelings so that the only thing that stands in my mind is my obedience to You. Being obedient means that I must surrender my desires to my King. I do that today and ask that I will be likeminded with You. The world dictates what we should think about which is what's best for me, while the power of the cross speaks the truth. It was by Your obedience that we carry the love of a Father. It was by the nails that we have grace and it was by Your sacrifice we have eternal life. Please keep those at the forefront of my mind so that I can carry that with me. I know that my loss is Your gain so if I must lose to win You; I choose You! For every moment of pain I pray You reveal Yourself to this world. Remind us that Your commitment was our reward! In Jesus Name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Friday, September 6, 2013
September 6, 2013
Good morning ladies-
Last night I made a decision to go for a walk. I didn't cook because I just wasn't in the right frame of mind. I needed to move. My day went by in a flash, I got home late and all I could think about was that I needed to go outside and be with God.
The day started with finding out that one of my classmates died of cancer. I realized that his brother had been one of my best clients. A couple of weeks ago I asked him how his brother was doing. The answer, "Only God knows." Michael had injured himself while helping the Moore Oklahoma families and had to have surgery. During his downtime, he and his brother spent many hours together. He told me that although the injury wasn't convenient, the time with his brother was priceless. And today, I'm sure he has no regrets.
It's funny because you never know what God is going to do and how he will do it. Michael's brother went from being away from God to being one with God. Even my classmates are posting a video of what God was doing in His life. Many will watch and I pray that with each word they hear the mighty power of Christ. I'm sure if he had a choice, he would have chosen to live. His kids are young and yet, God had a very different plan.
Is his life a tragedy or a testimony? I guess we could answer both ways but I would rather say it's a testimony to a faith that surpasses all understanding. I know what it's like to wander in the desert and I know what it's like to surrender and when we surrender, no matter the circumstances, there's a peace we just can't explain.
So as I walked yesterday, I thought of all these things. I pictured Ken dancing on the streets of gold, meeting others that had gone before him. I pictured God in all His glory saying, "Job well done." I pictured joy instead of sadness. As I walked, I repented of my sins, thinking on all the times I questioned Him and His divine path. I asked God to show me the way and let me see Him. I looked up at the sky and asked Him to reveal Himself through His power and wisdom. And then I asked Him to make me His woman.
You may have heard me use the term "His woman" many times on this blog. It has a great meaning. I have lived for the world and I have lived for Jesus and on any given day, I would rather live for Him than myself. I have troubles and tribulations just like the rest of you but if I'm going to be refined and since that's the case then I want it to be for Him and not for my sins. It's one thing to go through a hard time coming out of it knowing Jesus more and then there's the times we do something, have consequences and then have to find Christ through our shame and sorrow. I would rather ask Him to make me His woman, help me walk a straight path and be led to Him. He already knows my faults but I guarantee He has forgiven me long before I can forgive myself.
Last night, I was on the path of asking and listening to Pandora and all the wonderful Christian music they play. I heard Mercy Me and a song on the "Hurt and Healing" album. I think what struck me the hardest is when I heard them sing about Goliath. I have so many Goliath's in my life. I don't want to be the strongest man, the bravest warrior, or the toughest, nastiest individual. I want to be David, holding a sling and fearing no man. His strength came from his belief in God and that no man could stand between him and his God. That's who I want to be!
I have a long way to go before I could be characterized like David but it's my hearts desire to know Him and be that close to Him. David's life is a picture for all to see. How many times did he look up at the sky and proclaim that God was good? Just think about that for a minute. Your hiding in caves like an animal and yet, you wake up early, walk out of your cold, dark home to see the sun rising. How do you think you would feel? Well, you probably know how that feels if you've been released of a heavy burden. That's how I felt last night. I felt like God had released a burden off my heart. I surrendered to Him all that is His and asked for Him to guide me through the pool of my thoughts, feelings and choices. The world can read these words and yet, I don't care anymore because I know and truly believe that God will use them for His glory. I'm not a movie star or a great athlete; I'm just an ordinary woman looking for a mighty God. He is near and He is waiting for you to surrender to Him!
Take a walk today and see the glory in His works. His works and His words are mighty. If you aren't looking up a Scripture a day then you are missing out. I have my times when life gets tough and I'm not on this blog as much as I want to be but then I'm reminded that the sacrifice of getting up at 5:15 is my time to be with Him and you. As I've said many times before, I don't know you but I can feel your prayers. Turn your hearts toward God, pray for the women and men all over the world and pray that God will show His mighty hand as you pursue Him. He's waiting, hear His call.
May God bless you and keep you all your days and thank you for reading this blog and hearing the truth about our Lord Jesus Christ and one woman's heart to pursue Him.
Hebrews 11:40 NIV
since God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect.
Psalm 66:10 NIV
For you, God, tested us; you refined us like silver.
Romans 8:31 NIV
What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
My prayer today:
O, Lord, as I came before You last night I just want to Thank You for Your hand on my life. As I walked and meditated on Your words, the day came off my shoulders and I knew You were carrying my burden. My strength is not my own and yet my heart is all Yours. I know that I am a sinner that needs a Savior. I realize that my past sometimes haunts me and the things I view as mistakes You have taken and refined me. The fire has been hot at times and the road long but with all of that, I know You're near. I count the birds and hear the crickets and ponder Your greatness. The frog croaks as the sun sets and I know Your hand is on this earth. There are children needing food, people needing shelter and places that are at war that need peace. I realize that my problems are miniscule to those around me and I know that I can't heal nations, change people or be everything everyone needs to be happy. My purpose is not to do any of those things. You have given me a commission to use the talents You have given and spread the word of a beautiful, forgiving, merciful God. I pray that with every word I write that it's true and real. I pray that my portrayal of You is accurate with no false prophecies and that I am as honest as possible. I pray that women would read these words and know that I am Your woman and everything that comes from me is not mine but Yours. You are my powerful Savior, full of love for man. I am but a mere woman, wandering on this earth, hearing Your call and asking You to raise Your army so that others will hear Your name. You are mighty, You are merciful and You are my God. There is no other like You and I'm so grateful You took the time to pursue me, love me and save me. I am Yours. Please protect me as I walk toward You and protect my sisters as they hear Your call. We are one through You, by You and with You. Be with us today as we live our lives for You. In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Last night I made a decision to go for a walk. I didn't cook because I just wasn't in the right frame of mind. I needed to move. My day went by in a flash, I got home late and all I could think about was that I needed to go outside and be with God.
The day started with finding out that one of my classmates died of cancer. I realized that his brother had been one of my best clients. A couple of weeks ago I asked him how his brother was doing. The answer, "Only God knows." Michael had injured himself while helping the Moore Oklahoma families and had to have surgery. During his downtime, he and his brother spent many hours together. He told me that although the injury wasn't convenient, the time with his brother was priceless. And today, I'm sure he has no regrets.
It's funny because you never know what God is going to do and how he will do it. Michael's brother went from being away from God to being one with God. Even my classmates are posting a video of what God was doing in His life. Many will watch and I pray that with each word they hear the mighty power of Christ. I'm sure if he had a choice, he would have chosen to live. His kids are young and yet, God had a very different plan.
Is his life a tragedy or a testimony? I guess we could answer both ways but I would rather say it's a testimony to a faith that surpasses all understanding. I know what it's like to wander in the desert and I know what it's like to surrender and when we surrender, no matter the circumstances, there's a peace we just can't explain.
So as I walked yesterday, I thought of all these things. I pictured Ken dancing on the streets of gold, meeting others that had gone before him. I pictured God in all His glory saying, "Job well done." I pictured joy instead of sadness. As I walked, I repented of my sins, thinking on all the times I questioned Him and His divine path. I asked God to show me the way and let me see Him. I looked up at the sky and asked Him to reveal Himself through His power and wisdom. And then I asked Him to make me His woman.
You may have heard me use the term "His woman" many times on this blog. It has a great meaning. I have lived for the world and I have lived for Jesus and on any given day, I would rather live for Him than myself. I have troubles and tribulations just like the rest of you but if I'm going to be refined and since that's the case then I want it to be for Him and not for my sins. It's one thing to go through a hard time coming out of it knowing Jesus more and then there's the times we do something, have consequences and then have to find Christ through our shame and sorrow. I would rather ask Him to make me His woman, help me walk a straight path and be led to Him. He already knows my faults but I guarantee He has forgiven me long before I can forgive myself.
Last night, I was on the path of asking and listening to Pandora and all the wonderful Christian music they play. I heard Mercy Me and a song on the "Hurt and Healing" album. I think what struck me the hardest is when I heard them sing about Goliath. I have so many Goliath's in my life. I don't want to be the strongest man, the bravest warrior, or the toughest, nastiest individual. I want to be David, holding a sling and fearing no man. His strength came from his belief in God and that no man could stand between him and his God. That's who I want to be!
I have a long way to go before I could be characterized like David but it's my hearts desire to know Him and be that close to Him. David's life is a picture for all to see. How many times did he look up at the sky and proclaim that God was good? Just think about that for a minute. Your hiding in caves like an animal and yet, you wake up early, walk out of your cold, dark home to see the sun rising. How do you think you would feel? Well, you probably know how that feels if you've been released of a heavy burden. That's how I felt last night. I felt like God had released a burden off my heart. I surrendered to Him all that is His and asked for Him to guide me through the pool of my thoughts, feelings and choices. The world can read these words and yet, I don't care anymore because I know and truly believe that God will use them for His glory. I'm not a movie star or a great athlete; I'm just an ordinary woman looking for a mighty God. He is near and He is waiting for you to surrender to Him!
Take a walk today and see the glory in His works. His works and His words are mighty. If you aren't looking up a Scripture a day then you are missing out. I have my times when life gets tough and I'm not on this blog as much as I want to be but then I'm reminded that the sacrifice of getting up at 5:15 is my time to be with Him and you. As I've said many times before, I don't know you but I can feel your prayers. Turn your hearts toward God, pray for the women and men all over the world and pray that God will show His mighty hand as you pursue Him. He's waiting, hear His call.
May God bless you and keep you all your days and thank you for reading this blog and hearing the truth about our Lord Jesus Christ and one woman's heart to pursue Him.
Hebrews 11:40 NIV
since God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect.
Psalm 66:10 NIV
For you, God, tested us; you refined us like silver.
Romans 8:31 NIV
What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
My prayer today:
O, Lord, as I came before You last night I just want to Thank You for Your hand on my life. As I walked and meditated on Your words, the day came off my shoulders and I knew You were carrying my burden. My strength is not my own and yet my heart is all Yours. I know that I am a sinner that needs a Savior. I realize that my past sometimes haunts me and the things I view as mistakes You have taken and refined me. The fire has been hot at times and the road long but with all of that, I know You're near. I count the birds and hear the crickets and ponder Your greatness. The frog croaks as the sun sets and I know Your hand is on this earth. There are children needing food, people needing shelter and places that are at war that need peace. I realize that my problems are miniscule to those around me and I know that I can't heal nations, change people or be everything everyone needs to be happy. My purpose is not to do any of those things. You have given me a commission to use the talents You have given and spread the word of a beautiful, forgiving, merciful God. I pray that with every word I write that it's true and real. I pray that my portrayal of You is accurate with no false prophecies and that I am as honest as possible. I pray that women would read these words and know that I am Your woman and everything that comes from me is not mine but Yours. You are my powerful Savior, full of love for man. I am but a mere woman, wandering on this earth, hearing Your call and asking You to raise Your army so that others will hear Your name. You are mighty, You are merciful and You are my God. There is no other like You and I'm so grateful You took the time to pursue me, love me and save me. I am Yours. Please protect me as I walk toward You and protect my sisters as they hear Your call. We are one through You, by You and with You. Be with us today as we live our lives for You. In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Thursday, September 5, 2013
September 5, 2013
Good morning all-
I fell asleep last night so soundly that I woke with a start this morning. Have you ever had a day where you have felt so much stress only to have so much relief? That was my day yesterday. I found out I have my health back in order, I'm definitely feeling better and the employee I was going to have to let go, quit on me yesterday and gave her two week notice. Wow, what a relief.
My problems today are not like they were several years ago and they are definitely not as bad as most. I watch people on the street and wonder, should I be giving them money? Only to think they probably are cons. I don't know really what to believe there but my prayer is that I will give money to those that need it. I also am not at war, sent a child off to war or have the worry of leading a country. I don't live in a country where they are killing their own people and I get to talk about Jesus all day long if I wish. Really, I have a pretty easy life and yet, I still find myself getting stressed out, wishing for things to be better and asking the Lord to guide my every step.
Like you, I face challenges every day. A lot of them come with my teenager or my marriage. How can you be the best wife and mother when you are an executive at a small business? That's really the balls I juggle now. My goal is to love Christ first, then my husband and everything follows. However, every once in a while I find myself in jello instead of having my priorities straight and my mind on Christ. I'm sure you know what I mean. You don't have to work outside the home to feel the same way and you definitely don't have to be married with kids to feel like you just landed in a bowl of jello. As women, we face these situations every day. Often we don't feel like we are enough and mostly we feel guilty when we aren't being everything to everyone. I bet it was simpler when our ancestors were gathering berries, cooking and taking care of the farm. The work was much harder, the conditions may have been tremendously harder but they had a defined role and they knew exactly who they were and what needed to be done.
I find myself vascillating between being a good wife and mom and being a manager and trying to sell in a hostile environment. As I focused on what to do the last couple of days, I think I have come to the conclusion that I need to focus on Jesus and the rest will come. If I'm looking for Jesus, I will find my answers, I will rest in Him and I will be the woman He wants me to be. My mind plays games and the world can carry you on waves of greatness to deepest sorrow. I've decided I just want to rest in Him and He will carry my burdens, shoulder my sorrows and provide success where He sees it should be. Of course, I will participate but my goal today is to immurse myself in Him and let the rest take it's course.
Big words and I'm not sure I will always stay faithful but that's my plan for today. I am in need of making some changes in my life and finding balance where there isnt' any. I can only do so much, the rest is up to Him.
I realize that my words may seem trivial today. I have no idea what you're going through and how much you hurt or rejoice today. I'm not trying to make any situation seem easy because most of the time trials are far from easy. I'm suggesting that you let God pour out His love on your life and that you rest in Him in darkness. God doesn't save us from hard things; He uses them to refine us. I'm sure that some of you are having a great week and others of you are struggling. Let the struggles of your life be shared by others and ask someone to pray for you today. If you need a shoulder, I am here to pray and to love you. May God bless and keep you all today as you live one more day.
I found this on YouVersion (the Bible application) and had to put it down on this blog today.
Matthew 4:4 NIV
Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'"
That pretty much sums up my thoughts for today. Press on my sisters and find Christ today!
My prayer today:
O, Lord, You are mighty! How often have I said those words only to wonder what You were doing in my life. I fight against wanting to know more, seeking to find answers that aren't in the world and running from tough times. So today, my sisters and I will stand up and be counted. Each one of us has our journey with You. You take our hands, You guide us and You decide the direction we should go. Often, we don't listen, we guide ourselves on a path of destruction but at the end of every path You stand, waiting and watching for us to repent and to know You are near. It's my nature to question, to worry and to wonder, "What will tomorrow bring?" And then I see a flock of birds soaring down from the top of our eleven story building and I realize, today is today and tomorrow will take care of itself. There are times that I look into nature and see Your hand and there are times that I wish You would spell the future out to me. I wake and wonder what will happen today and then I remind myself that I don't have to know anything but You! I come before You a repentent soul asking You to forgive me for worrying and wondering what comes next. You have set me on a path and the details of that journey are written. Enlighten me at Your will, bring forth Your glory through my life and immerse me in Your Holy Spirit. I don't deserve You but yet, You love me anyway. Please help my sisters in Israel, Germany, Russia, Poland, China, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Estonia, the US and all over the world. We are one body with One God. Please let Your spirit carry us from Ocean to Ocean so that we might see Your hand. We thank You for Your mercy and for the love You have given to each one of us as we have found You. Your glory is all that matters, Your grace is all we need, unite Your army and make us one. In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
I fell asleep last night so soundly that I woke with a start this morning. Have you ever had a day where you have felt so much stress only to have so much relief? That was my day yesterday. I found out I have my health back in order, I'm definitely feeling better and the employee I was going to have to let go, quit on me yesterday and gave her two week notice. Wow, what a relief.
My problems today are not like they were several years ago and they are definitely not as bad as most. I watch people on the street and wonder, should I be giving them money? Only to think they probably are cons. I don't know really what to believe there but my prayer is that I will give money to those that need it. I also am not at war, sent a child off to war or have the worry of leading a country. I don't live in a country where they are killing their own people and I get to talk about Jesus all day long if I wish. Really, I have a pretty easy life and yet, I still find myself getting stressed out, wishing for things to be better and asking the Lord to guide my every step.
Like you, I face challenges every day. A lot of them come with my teenager or my marriage. How can you be the best wife and mother when you are an executive at a small business? That's really the balls I juggle now. My goal is to love Christ first, then my husband and everything follows. However, every once in a while I find myself in jello instead of having my priorities straight and my mind on Christ. I'm sure you know what I mean. You don't have to work outside the home to feel the same way and you definitely don't have to be married with kids to feel like you just landed in a bowl of jello. As women, we face these situations every day. Often we don't feel like we are enough and mostly we feel guilty when we aren't being everything to everyone. I bet it was simpler when our ancestors were gathering berries, cooking and taking care of the farm. The work was much harder, the conditions may have been tremendously harder but they had a defined role and they knew exactly who they were and what needed to be done.
I find myself vascillating between being a good wife and mom and being a manager and trying to sell in a hostile environment. As I focused on what to do the last couple of days, I think I have come to the conclusion that I need to focus on Jesus and the rest will come. If I'm looking for Jesus, I will find my answers, I will rest in Him and I will be the woman He wants me to be. My mind plays games and the world can carry you on waves of greatness to deepest sorrow. I've decided I just want to rest in Him and He will carry my burdens, shoulder my sorrows and provide success where He sees it should be. Of course, I will participate but my goal today is to immurse myself in Him and let the rest take it's course.
Big words and I'm not sure I will always stay faithful but that's my plan for today. I am in need of making some changes in my life and finding balance where there isnt' any. I can only do so much, the rest is up to Him.
I realize that my words may seem trivial today. I have no idea what you're going through and how much you hurt or rejoice today. I'm not trying to make any situation seem easy because most of the time trials are far from easy. I'm suggesting that you let God pour out His love on your life and that you rest in Him in darkness. God doesn't save us from hard things; He uses them to refine us. I'm sure that some of you are having a great week and others of you are struggling. Let the struggles of your life be shared by others and ask someone to pray for you today. If you need a shoulder, I am here to pray and to love you. May God bless and keep you all today as you live one more day.
I found this on YouVersion (the Bible application) and had to put it down on this blog today.
Matthew 4:4 NIV
Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'"
That pretty much sums up my thoughts for today. Press on my sisters and find Christ today!
My prayer today:
O, Lord, You are mighty! How often have I said those words only to wonder what You were doing in my life. I fight against wanting to know more, seeking to find answers that aren't in the world and running from tough times. So today, my sisters and I will stand up and be counted. Each one of us has our journey with You. You take our hands, You guide us and You decide the direction we should go. Often, we don't listen, we guide ourselves on a path of destruction but at the end of every path You stand, waiting and watching for us to repent and to know You are near. It's my nature to question, to worry and to wonder, "What will tomorrow bring?" And then I see a flock of birds soaring down from the top of our eleven story building and I realize, today is today and tomorrow will take care of itself. There are times that I look into nature and see Your hand and there are times that I wish You would spell the future out to me. I wake and wonder what will happen today and then I remind myself that I don't have to know anything but You! I come before You a repentent soul asking You to forgive me for worrying and wondering what comes next. You have set me on a path and the details of that journey are written. Enlighten me at Your will, bring forth Your glory through my life and immerse me in Your Holy Spirit. I don't deserve You but yet, You love me anyway. Please help my sisters in Israel, Germany, Russia, Poland, China, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Estonia, the US and all over the world. We are one body with One God. Please let Your spirit carry us from Ocean to Ocean so that we might see Your hand. We thank You for Your mercy and for the love You have given to each one of us as we have found You. Your glory is all that matters, Your grace is all we need, unite Your army and make us one. In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
September 3, 2013
Good morning ladies-
Well it's been an eventful week. I think I've rested from my week long business trip and I hope my fingers still know how to type at hyper-speed because I wanted to get this message to you. Hopefully, you have all read what Anne Graham Lotz wrote on her blog and you have found a passion for the mission. I know that she is an inspiration to me. Her inspiration is Jesus and that means we are working for the same man!
I heard someone say yesterday the greatest salesmen is one that sells what can't be seen. Think about it for a minute. I have a product I'm trying to sell and I can show it and people can see what it does. I believe in it because I can show them the value. What about something you can't see? What about Jesus?
That's the question I have been asking myself all along. How do we really look at things and do we believe more in what we see than what we believe. The answer is yes. It is easier for us to believe in tangible things than to believe in a God. We can't see Him or feel Him so therefore, He must not exist. Yet those of us that follow know He exists and we are waiting.
Several things have challenged me over the last week. Sales is one of the most challenging of industries. Mostly, you have to put your faith in your product and in yourself. I rarely know the outcome and I have to keep challenging myself to move forward. I have to believe that Jesus will bring the business as long as I work for it.
My faith often gets challenged but then I hear, "Trust in me." Those three words have helped me scale tall buildings, persevere through the frigid cold and helped me rest when I didn't know where to turn. Jesus has been my Father, my Husband and my Friend. He has been everything as long as I was willing to run to Him. And boy have I run!
The beginning of this week was no different. The walls are tall, the competition steep and the stress astronomical. So what do I do, I take down everything I believe in that resembles the world and look for the unseen.
So here I am writing at the crack of dawn and all I want to leave you with is the Word by which we should be living. I can't see God or heaven. I can't feel His touch or hear His words. All I have is a Bible that someone took time to write so that all of us would have the ability to hear His words. Three in One. Does anyone truly know what that means? I do! We have a God that loves us and it's our time to call upon Him and look for what we can't see rather than what we want to see.
A while back I asked you to pray for Syria. Events are unfolding and many have perished. Please continue to pray for our world. People are dying at dictator's hands and all we can do is pray. Our world is full of war, famine and evil but we must stand in the gap and believe that God, who is unseen, will prevail.
May today steer you closer to our Lord and may the power of the Holy Spirit come down on this earth and turn people toward Him. God bless my sisters!
Psalm 20:7 NIV
Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.
Like you, this will be my prayer today. For all I need is Jesus and in Him I must trust that He will prevail upon this earth. May His kingdom come and His will be done on earth as it is in heaven. I'm out of time today but I love You with all my heart and I pray that many hearts are turning toward God. Be well my sisters and pray for each other. We have many miles that span between us but our hearts yearn for One!
Well it's been an eventful week. I think I've rested from my week long business trip and I hope my fingers still know how to type at hyper-speed because I wanted to get this message to you. Hopefully, you have all read what Anne Graham Lotz wrote on her blog and you have found a passion for the mission. I know that she is an inspiration to me. Her inspiration is Jesus and that means we are working for the same man!
I heard someone say yesterday the greatest salesmen is one that sells what can't be seen. Think about it for a minute. I have a product I'm trying to sell and I can show it and people can see what it does. I believe in it because I can show them the value. What about something you can't see? What about Jesus?
That's the question I have been asking myself all along. How do we really look at things and do we believe more in what we see than what we believe. The answer is yes. It is easier for us to believe in tangible things than to believe in a God. We can't see Him or feel Him so therefore, He must not exist. Yet those of us that follow know He exists and we are waiting.
Several things have challenged me over the last week. Sales is one of the most challenging of industries. Mostly, you have to put your faith in your product and in yourself. I rarely know the outcome and I have to keep challenging myself to move forward. I have to believe that Jesus will bring the business as long as I work for it.
My faith often gets challenged but then I hear, "Trust in me." Those three words have helped me scale tall buildings, persevere through the frigid cold and helped me rest when I didn't know where to turn. Jesus has been my Father, my Husband and my Friend. He has been everything as long as I was willing to run to Him. And boy have I run!
The beginning of this week was no different. The walls are tall, the competition steep and the stress astronomical. So what do I do, I take down everything I believe in that resembles the world and look for the unseen.
So here I am writing at the crack of dawn and all I want to leave you with is the Word by which we should be living. I can't see God or heaven. I can't feel His touch or hear His words. All I have is a Bible that someone took time to write so that all of us would have the ability to hear His words. Three in One. Does anyone truly know what that means? I do! We have a God that loves us and it's our time to call upon Him and look for what we can't see rather than what we want to see.
A while back I asked you to pray for Syria. Events are unfolding and many have perished. Please continue to pray for our world. People are dying at dictator's hands and all we can do is pray. Our world is full of war, famine and evil but we must stand in the gap and believe that God, who is unseen, will prevail.
May today steer you closer to our Lord and may the power of the Holy Spirit come down on this earth and turn people toward Him. God bless my sisters!
Psalm 20:7 NIV
Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.
Like you, this will be my prayer today. For all I need is Jesus and in Him I must trust that He will prevail upon this earth. May His kingdom come and His will be done on earth as it is in heaven. I'm out of time today but I love You with all my heart and I pray that many hearts are turning toward God. Be well my sisters and pray for each other. We have many miles that span between us but our hearts yearn for One!
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