Unseen and Hidden Heros

  
     As I was thinking of what to share today, I couldn't help but think of those who are always "behind the scenes" serving; in our churches, schools and communities.  It seems I have been in the nursery more than in the church service over the last few months and I have been reminded that there are so many servants that go unnoticed and unrecognized  because what they do is not out in the open where everyone can see, its not glamorous or showy. Throughout scripture the Lord was always reaching out and or ministering in some way to the" least of these". The women at the well, the tax collector, the lepers and servers like Martha and Mary and many more. Christ had a heart for the unloved and unseen people around him. Do we?  I have asked the Lord to show me the "hidden heros" around me and then show me how to love and minister to them as HE did. Its amazing when you just ask, how HE will answer. HE is just waiting for us to ask.
   I will never forget a phone call with my daughter when she was visiting in the mental ward in a local hospital. " Mom, she said " These workers and those they are helping are truly  the "least of these" that no one sees "It breaks my heart" she said. She then later shared with me how she felt led to bring all the workers on that floor dinner and how surprised they were that someone took notice of them and their patients.  I have often recalled her saying that and the actions she took when I see the homeless, those that clean our schools, churches and other public places , the bag boys, the garbage men, those that care for our loved ones in hospitals and nursing homes and I could go on and on. Sometimes they just need a smile and a thank you for a job well done, an encouraging word , offer to help or fix them a meal to show they are appreciated. These small acts can often open the door to share Christ and His love for them.
   When we take the time to acknowledge or talk with the "Unseen and Hidden Heros" in our lives ,we will see that they are just like us. The same God that created us created them and loves them equally as he does you and I.
  Lord, I pray you will show us how to love and acknowledge the unseen and " hidden hero's" around us everyday. Help us to thank them and show them acts of kindness in return for how they serve us. Forgive us for how we pass by or tend to look down at them and even think lesser of them because of the job they do, how they act or how they dress. Bring the "least of these" to our attention all around us and show us how to love them as you love them Lord. Remind us Lord, that when we serve them we are serving you.
    
Matthew 25:40  Assuredly I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to me"    

 
    

"What Did She say?"

      Have you ever been in a conversation and heard someone say something harsh or hurtful about another person? I would venture to say that all of us have. We have been either the recipient of the hurtful words or we have been the one who has said the hurtful words.  The bible has a lot to say on this subject ,so alot of what I will share is straight from scripture. Can I just say that we have all been guilty of not harnessing our mouth and speaking before we think. It is part of the sin nature within us that Satan likes to use to do the most harm within our homes, churches and relationships in general.  How can we control these harsh and hurtful words from leaving our tongues? The bible tells us that it is the most difficult part of our bodies to harness. " For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word he is a perfect man, also able to bridle the whole body." James 3:2.
The first thing we must realize is that we cannot do this on our own. " But no man can tame the tongue ,it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison." James 3:8.  Isn't it amazing how in the same sentence we can be kind and then spout of  words that crush and  tear down those we love.  "Out of the same month proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so." James 3:10. So, where do we start? The first place I recommend is memorizing Gods word. "His words I have hid in my heart that I might not sin against thee." Psalm 119 . God tells us right here that memorizing His word helps prevent us from sinning so I think this is a great start!  Hurtful words come from the heart. The more of Gods word we have hidden in our hearts the less room for harmful words. So if Gods word squeezes out evil words, lets get memorizing! Also the more we submit to the Holy Spirit the less we are in control of our words and actions, which we all know never turn out that well. We have to submit to His power daily, His power prevails over our fleshly desires, of envy and self seeking, that produce the harmful words towards others. It is the filling of His spirit that replaces our evil and fleshly spirit.  "Come Holy Spirit and fill us today. " are words to a powerful song we always sang in church when I was growing up. So thankful God is bringing them to mind as I share with you today.  He is always faithful and will continue  to mold and chisel away  at our hard hearts whether we want Him to or not. It is much easier though if we are willing to let Him. " Lord , I desire to become more and more like you ,so fill me with your spirit and words so I can speak words that encourage and build up others. May I be an earthy example of your love and kindness towards my brothers and sisters in Christ and a world that needs to know you."

Serving is a Lifestyle

    As we have begun a new year the Lord has impressed on my heart a more intentional call to serve. What does that look like and how can we more effectively serve those around us. First, let me say that to really serve as the Lord intended us too we must be in a place where we  fellowship with him daily, in His word and in prayer. This is how we begin to hear the Lord speak and prick our hearts to act on His behalf.
    I was at a women's retreat a few weekends ago and got to hear a sweet friend share how she and her family have weaved serving others into their daily lives.  This was such a confirmation of the Lords working in my heart in this area.  I have always had a heart for serving but through the years feel like it has been sparatic at times. I have quenched the spirits nudging often times due to "business" even church business. Can you imagine that we can  get so busy doing church work that we lose site of "His work".  Our desire to be active in the church  is wonderful and God honoring, but if we are not careful , it can be all consuming to the point of neglecting the call to serve and love the lost community outside of our church walls.
    The Lord will prompt your heart daily to the needs around you if you are in daily contact with Him. He speaks when we get still and listen. We cannot be thoroughly equipped for service without ongoing exposure to Scripture. This week as I asked the Lord to prick my heart to the needs of others and it was amazing to me how He spoke just because I asked. The blessings from serving are unmeasureable if we will just listen and act. 2 Thessalonians 1:11 "To this end we always pray for you, that God may make you worthy of His calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by His power" I encourage you to pray for flexibility in your schedule and creativity as you serve others. It is an exciting command and calling on our lives as believers! This is my friend Rhonda's website if you would like to see some of her creativity in serving.  www.cultivatingahome.com    Happy Serving!

Keeping Christmas Simple

Only 9 days till Christmas! The pressure is on! Are all the presents purchased, Christmas cards mailed, meals planned, house in order for company, goodies for neighbors and friends baked and delivered, Christmas programs and parties attended? I don't know about you but it can get quite busy and overwhelming to say the least this time of year.  I honestly have not accomplished my goal of keeping Christmas simple but I'm getting closer each year in my heart anyway. One of my all time favorite quotes from Elizabeth Elliot has always been, "Do the next thing, there are many good things but choose the wise things to partake in".  Simplifying Christmas begins in the heart. It is the desires of our heart that drive our daily decisions and plans.  Gods word tells us that the desires of our heart are either rooted in the pleasures of this world or in  pleasing Him.  Seeking Him first in all we do will drive our desires to align with His will.  This may seem radical to some of you but my vision of a simple Christmas would look something like this:  Instead of attending all the fancy musicals and programs, I would love to be spending my time sharing the Story of Christmas with the many children in foster care or orphanages in our area. Instead of spending so much time deciding on gifts and the purchasing of them, I wish we could combine our resources and give more to missions or specific local families in need.  Instead of always spending all of our holidays with our close families and friends at various parties and events , we could share our time by inviting those around us who are lost and much less fortunate into our homes to love on and share Christ with. I would love to be apart of a celebration that truly focuses on the Heart of our Savior ,which I believe would involve putting into action, plans that focus and prioritize the reaching of the lost around us. Can you imagine what our homes and churches would look like if this was how we choose to celebrate and honor our Savior this time of year! I cant help but think how it must grieve His heart that so much of our time and focus is really not about Him at all. Yes, we may sing and praise and share Him from the choir lofts and pulpits of our churches ,which is all good, but how are we spreading His story  outside of our church buildings? God forgive me for the amount of time I've spent in stores and shopping malls and online looking for just the right presents when so many are sad, lonely, destitute and lost. Simplifying Christmas is  about how and what we spend our time on, which is a reflection of where our heart truly is this time of year. My prayer is that the husbands and fathers of our Christian homes will lead their families in this direction during this season. What an impact on our children and our world this could make! Have a blessed Christmas !

Thanksgiving Rewind

     As we reflect on our recent Thanksgiving holiday , I cant help but wonder what we ,as the church, did to reach others in response to the abundance of blessings we share.
    Let me back up just a bit and tell you that I just returned from the "woods" of Coleman, Georgia, where I spent the last eight days with my husband, hunting. Now, when I say the woods, I mean we are literally miles from the nearest gas station and or store of any kind.  All you will see when drive through this little town of Coleman is some homes ,one small post office, a church and a blinking light. Oh , and did I forget to mention that there is no cell service unless you are in certain hunting stands, near a tower and clear skies. I'm sure to most of you this sounds like a terrible way to spend your thanksgiving but as I "rewind" my thoughts backward I have truly been able to see all the blessings. Now, mind you, as I am using the outhouse bathroom , I did have fleeting moments of feeling like a true pilgrim!
    I feel like year after year as we celebrate this wonderful holiday we are often missing out on opportunities that we ,along with our children can reach out to others. Now, don't get me wrong, I love everything about Thanksgiving, the incredible food, watching the Macy's day parade and most of all time with friends and family.  But in all of our thanksgivings, like indoor bathrooms, what and how are we responding to the lost, poor and lonely people around us.  Growing up my mom and dad always made a point of inviting a college student away from home or without family over to share in our Thanksgiving day. What a great lesson they were teaching us just through that little gesture. I think what is truly in my heart is that in  response to our many blessings we, the church and people of God, should be inviting the reaching out to the "least of these" more than ever during the holiday season. For example, hosting a thanksgiving dinner at church where "we serve" the meal to the homeless and less fortunate of our communities. Invite them to our homes or family gatherings.
I know this sounds uncomfortable but God did not call us to comfort, He called us to compassion, service and love for the unlovable.  As I was without  my ''comforts of home" this past week my heart was saddened for so many who live like that every day. Lord, Forgive us for not taking the opportunities we have to reach those who are lonely and less fortunate around us. Forgive us for our selfishness in wanting to spend all of our time during the holidays, in the comfort of our homes ,with friends and family when so many are without. Help us Lord to see the needs around us and in response, share and invite them into our lives and families so that we can truly show and spread the message of the Gospel in and through our cities and communities.
" God create a clean heart in me and RENEW a steadfast spirit within me. Do not take me from your presence or your Holy Spirit but restore the JOY of your salvation to me, and give me a WILLING SPIRIT.  Psalm 51:10-12.  
May  each of us begin this holiday season with a renewed vision of how we can change lives through simple acts of serving and loving those around us, remembering the same Christ who gave His life for us, gave His life for them as well!

When Your Children Suffer

    There is nothing more difficult for parents than to watch there children suffer.  As parents we want the best for our children. We want them to live full, happy and healthy lives.We never want them to hurt or go through difficult times of suffering and heartache.  It is part of that protective  nature God gives us in caring for them. As mothers and fathers we want to shield them from danger or anything that will harm them. When they are young it seems so much easier to protect them because we have more control over where they go and what they do. As we slowly release them into the world we have to relinquish that control and it then becomes more difficult to oversee and protect them from this world and all the evils in it.  
     As hard as it is to accept, our children will suffer and go through difficult trials in their lives.
It is part of the fall of Adam and Eve and the sinful world we live in. "Why is it happening to them?" has been a question I have often asked the Lord in the last 5 years as we have watched our precious daughter and son in law go through much suffering and heartache. "Why Lord would you allow such suffering to happen to two people who desire nothing more than to serve you and love you with all their heart?' I just don't understand?" I admit that often times I have cried out to the Lord in this way hoping for some kind of answer. I also have asked the Lord to take it from them and let us suffer instead. "It just doesn't seem fair". These are all normal responses  as parents so don't allow guilt to set in. The Lord knows our heart and hears our cry.
      Personally, after many tears over the years, these truths from Gods word have been my greatest comfort; "Count it all JOY my children when (your children) encounter various trials , knowing that the testing of their faith produces faith and faith patience. And let patience do its perfect work that they may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." James 1: 2-4.  "Ok Lord so I get that you are perfecting their faith and that you are going to use all of this in their lives for good but when will it end? "How much more can they endure or we endure of watching them suffer trial after trial?" I wish I could tell you that the Lord has given me an end date or answer to the WHY of it all, but I can't. What I can do though is share with you  what the Lord has taught me and is continuing to teach me through His word.  For instance the verse " The joy of the Lord is your strength." Neh. 8:10 began to resonate in my heart in a way I couldn't explain.  His "PEACE that passes all understanding" continues to fill my heart when I doubt what the Lords plan is in all of this. I have begun to see all that has happened and continues to happen in their lives as part of Gods divine and ongoing plan to bring HIM glory!  Knowing that as hard as it is, trials, in Gods eyes are allowed to perfect our faith , all the while molding and conforming us more and more into His likeness in preparation for eternity! There is a bigger picture and plan beyond what we can see that is unique to all who suffer for the cause of Christ. So with all that said, we as parents should welcome the trials and suffering in our children's lives, as backward as it sounds, trusting that it is all apart of Gods purposeful plan for them. We don't have to like it but we do need to pray, help, love and encourage our children in every way possible, all the while trusting in Gods divine sovereignty over every area of their lives. Lord, help us to see all suffering as miniscule in comparison to what you suffered on the cross for us , trusting that our children  are always under the canopy of your grace and love.

When Life Gets Messy

   We have all heard the saying,"When life gives you lemons make lemonaide". Well, its not always that simple. Sometimes the lemons are so bad its impossible to make lemonaide.  The difficulties we face are not always that easy to fix. In fact many of them are so complicated that we cannot see an answer at all. We don't understand why the Lord is allowing it much less His purpose for it all.
    The thing I always tell myself is that we live in a FALLEN world, Sin=Messy.  Messy can be out of our control and difficult to manage. Messy can also cause much grief and sadness, hurt and brokenness.  So what do we do? How do we manage or handle the difficult situations we all will face at one time or another.  Well, first of all 'WE" in and of ourselves are not the best managers and even if we try it often doesn't go like we hoped.  We are called as believers to lay them at the feet of Jesus "Cast our burdens on Him for He cares for us" His word tells us. How do we do this when what we are going through is consuming our lives to the point of suffocation. First, Have FAITH, faith is a calm trust in Christ despite all our trails and troubles.  Second,  LOVE, a reasoned decision and determination to love those who are hurting or have hurt us. And third, HOPE, an abiding trust and patient waiting, knowing that God has determined the future and has a plan that is beyond what we can see on this earth.   Does this make all you are going through any easier? No, but it can provide a peace and joy that is unexplainable and supernatural, and will enable you survive the difficult things you are facing.
    There is power in His word and strength that will come from praying that only we as believers have access too. There have been times in my own life when all I could do was muster up the strength to cry out His name. Just that little bit was enough to sustain me to get through that moment of despair. One of my life verses has been , "The JOY of the Lord is your strength." Neh 8:10  When I have looked back on these messy times I couldn't even explain this Joy, it was just there when I needed it.  This is how our awesome God works,  we are not exempt from trials we are just promised that He will never leave us and will provide the mercy and grace we need to get through it! 
 "These things I have spoken to you, that in me you will have PEACE. In this world you WILL have tribulation but be of good cheer, I have OVERCOME the world." John 16:33. I am so thankful that as followers of Christ, this messy life is just temporary. We are promised an eternity free of all sadness, sickness and despair! To God be the Glory great things He has done!
    

Do I have to forgive?

       Definition of forgiveness: Using honesty,compassion and self-awareness to reconcile with someone who has hurt you. Martin Luther King once said. "Forgiveness is not an occasional act, it is a permanent attitude." If we truly want to be loving people then we must learn to forgive. We must forgive the deepest hurts of life as well as the daily offenses of a family member. Whether the offense is large or small, forgiveness requires us to seek reconciliation if our relationships are to have a positive influence in our lives. We are incurably moral creatures. When we are wronged, something in us says;"That is not right, whoever did this is going to pay for it!" True forgiveness can only come when justice and love work together. Living a life of true love requires us to offer forgiveness to those who have wronged us. Forgiveness is so necessary in human relationships because our freedom almost always takes a self centered path. We all have the opportunity to overcome our self-centered natures and learn to live for the benefit of others. That means forgiving those who have offended us . It does not mean ignoring the wrongs done to us. Our sense of justice will not allow us to overlook unloving actions. If it did evil would prevail in this world. Forgiveness is the choice to love rather than demand justice. Our desire for reconciliation should be greater than our desire to get even.
So what should we do when we are wronged? First, I believe we should rebuke (means :place weight upon) the one who has hurt you. Bring it to their attention. Many times the person doesn't even realize they have wronged you. Second, We should always pray and emotionally calm down before confronting this person or persons.
Third, Authentic love requires us to show respect for the other person in spite of what they have done. They are a valued individual that God loves. It is important that we confront the other person with gentleness, truth and an offer of forgiveness. It is important that we do not let our feelings of hurt and disappointment control our behavior. We must rely on the Lord to help us. After all ,He forgave us by giving His life for us. As Christan's we should be the ultimate example to the world of what it is like to truly forgive. This kind of forgiveness enables us to truly be free and in right relationship with not only others but with the Lord. We must do our part then allow God to take care of the rest. Not everyone we confront will be receptive. When we do not forgive the devil in turn uses this to limit our effectiveness for Christ. I don't want anything in the way of my Savior and I . Be proactive in restoring those relationships that are marred so that you can be free to be used for Gods glory in a mighty way. Also, what better to teach and train our children to forgive than to "live it" in front of them each and every day.

Graciousness - A reflection of the heart of Christ

  
      This is an older post I wanted to re-share with you . I pray it speaks to your heart as it did mine today. Thank you for reading.
 A gracious heart is giving heart. A heart focused on helping others. Do you see yourself as a gracious person? Are you sensitive to the needs of others above your own? God's word challenges each of us to be gracious, kind ,merciful and selfless. He know this will bring real joy and fulfillment into our lives.
    We reflect graciousness through our actions and words.  What we do and say speaks loudly to those around us.  A gracious person may seem  polished or refined on the outside but it is what is in the heart that truly matters. Graciousness reflects Christ and a heart committed to His love for mankind.  It happens as we are being conformed to His image through time in His word and prayer.
   What does it look like? It may be watching children for a an overwhelmed mother. Showing up with cooked meals to place in the freezer of a sick friend . Cleaning the home of an elderly person or helping someone who is moving with packing. (LOL , we have moved often so this one hits home with me.)  The Lord will reveal these opportunities if you ask Him too.
   My father has always been a wonderful example to me of someone with a gracious heart. He is always giving.  It may be the time he gives to disciple and encourage a new believer in Christ ( this was a natural and common occurrence  in our home growing up.)or it may be a monetary need. He often goes to garage sales and buys furniture for  new families from overseas or clothes and toys for children. He truly demonstrates  the love of Christ in this way.
 Lord, help us to truly love others through the giving of our time and talents. Help us not to focus on our inabilities but our availability. Create in us a desire to serve others above our own wants and desires.
    Exodus 33:19  "I will make all my goodness pass before you, and I will proclaim the name of the Lord before you, I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion"

Its Friday Favorites again.  SO invite your facebook friends to like the blog and whoever has the most friends like it will WIN a 15.00 Starbucks gift card. Will end Saturday at 12pm. Yeah!!!

It's not about ME

HAPPY OCTOBER!
     I'm back and excited to share with you what the Lord has been teaching me. I think one of the most difficult things to talk about sometimes is ourselves.  It's easier to discuss others and how to fix them than focus on ME.  Let me back up a little and share with you some of my story.
    It started after our fourth child was born; I began to experience some anxious thoughts and feelings followed by some very low days. I really didn't know at the time what I was dealing with, but after seeing several doctors I was diagnosed with anxiety and depression.  This was a start because up until this point I was at a loss of how to handle and deal with what I was experiencing. In addition to caring for a newborn and 3 other children I was quite overwhelmed to say the least. After resisting it for some time I began to take medication, this came after realizing I couldn't just snap out of it on my own. God was doing His part but I was failing to do mine.  Mental illness is a malfunction in the brain, your brain has become deficient of certain chemicals that cause it to operate properly. Medication whether natural or man made helps to replace and aid in the healing.  Like any other illness, something in these temporary bodies of ours is under attack and needs help to heal.
     I  did get better but became very absorbed in myself and self pity. Let me just warn you...this is a very dangerous place to be. One day I just cried out to the Lord for help. The Lord along with other Godly men and women I sought for counseling helped me to take the focus off myself and begin pouring into the lives of others. Duh! this is the very reason He created us right? Well some of us are more stubborn than others! You see you can be doing a lot of things for others but for the wrong reasons. If we are not careful what we do can always come back to a 'what's in it for me' " attitude. For example: "Not one person said thank you to me"," I go and do and no one even notices what I do for them". These are just a few  of our " I" responses that can be all consuming if we are not careful. So, how do we change or what can we do to alter this mindset?
    The first thing God showed me was to start a prayer journal and begin praying for others. Focusing on the needs of others rather than ourselves starts the healing process. I also began to prayer walk and prayer drive. This is an example of praying without ceasing. Many of the people we see and pass by on a daily basis are hurting, lost and hopeless. Our prayers can alter their lives and eternity if we just slow down and take the time to pray, encourage and love them. You cannot gossip, be angry, speak unkindly, and pray for someone at the same time. Its just not possible! I challenge you to try it !
    I also realized that I  had to watch and re-evaluate how I was spending my time. I would ask myself, "Is what I'm doing helping to further the cause of Christ"? You see, God called us to be eternally minded. He wants us to have an eternal perspective in this life.  Yes, we have to eat, clean and of course work but in doing so we are to  keep that eternal mindset. Ouch! I don't know about you but that pricks my heart.  I soon realized that the more I focused on others the less time I had to focus on ME! Hence the phase, " Its not about ME ", became my motto. When we come to know Christ and accept all He has done for us, we are no longer the same,a transformation begins. We are made new, with new wants and desires and perspectives on how we live our lives on this earth.
   My prayer is that this helps each of us re-evaluate our focus and what we do with our time.
      May it be on things that are eternal not temporary.  Lord, Help us to be about your work and calling on our lives each day. Remind us that "It is not about ME" Lord, but all about YOU!
          "Seek ye first my kingdom, and all things shall be added unto you" Matthew 6:33
                                                            Have a blessed Wednesday, Love Stacy
Website Source for Mental Health recovery:  www.mentalhealthgracealliance.org

Thank you so much to those of you who share my blog on Friday! I you commented you went into the drawing for the FAMILY mug! Congratulations to LEE for winning the mug!!
PS Lee if you can message me with your address I will get it right out to you!
              So excited to share my next post " Its not about ME" on Wednesday!

Friday Favorites-Giveaway

 

So excited to start my "Friday Favorite Giveaways" SO thankful for each of you who are visiting my blog and willing to share it. My prayer is that it will continue to bless you and those you share it with.

Happy Friday Friends!

Giveaway rules:

1) Share this blog post on Facebook and comment on this post letting me know that you shared it-1ENTRY

2) Comment on this blog post and tell me what your favorite thing is about your family-1 ENTRY

The giveaway will end on Sunday at 12:00pm and the winner will be announced by Monday morning.

Battle on the Homefront

Hi friends, I am so excited to share with you again and so grateful you are taking this time out of your busy day to read my blog.
    Although I am in a new season of my life that allows me more time for myself, I feel the Lord is continually tugging at me to share the things He has laid heavily on  heart lately. You've heard the saying "Man is not an island" Well what that means is that we were not created to live an introverted, isolated (all about me) life. We were created to make a difference in this world and the lives of those around us. I have to say when I was home with 5 children, buried in laundry and dishes, and homeschooling ,there were many days I felt like an island, isolated from the real world, I thought.  Friends, even during these busy, crazy days I knew that what I was doing was making a difference. In a small way, mistakes and all I was doing my part to train these precious lives to love and serve the Lord.
     You see, our place and role in the home is a God appointed, God ordained , calling on our lives.
This is where it all begins, and also where Satan roams and seeks to destroy. He (Satan) is very crafty and smart. He knows very well that if he can destroy the home, he can reek havoc on a nation. Believe it or not history shows that when women began to leave the home and go back into the work force, this nation began to crumble. Why? Is it because we lost our focus? Well you could say that but what really happened was that Satan knew that the home was the battlefront and to rage war there was his only hope of stopping or slowing down the furtherance of Gods kingdom. Before I go any further, please hear my heart on this. I am not saying that every women should or can be home day in and day out. What I am saying is that when we step outside of our biblical role as women, due to longing for the things of this world , we run a great risk of allowing the enemy to creep in little by little and do his damage. Statistics show that when women went back into the work force in the 1960's, sexual immorality, divorce , child abuse and neglect, crime and promiscuity among teens and the list goes on; began to run ramped. Not a one of us can deny that a lot of what we see in our world today is because of the neglect or disappearance of a mother or father at home  fighting off the enemy.
   Does this mean we are to physically be present in our homes day and night ,no but it does mean that when we are home we are to be  "present". Instilling Gods word in our children, eye contact (put away the smart phones), prayer, scripture memory, family outings and game time, family and corporate worship. These are all weapons that are all mighty in defeating the enemy and winning the war! We can defeat the one who is out to steal, kill and destroy Gods most precious creation, and tool for furthering His kingdom, the family!   I challenge you to take hold of these weapons, even if they need a little dusting off, and fight! God is on your side , He is just waiting for you to embrace role, take up your weapons and fight!
"These things I have spoken to you that you may have peace. In this world you will have tribulation;
but be of good cheer , I have overcome the world. John 16:33
      

Love is a Choice

Well,  I  have been married to my wonderful husband 34 years. I can hardly believe it ,but can still remember that evening very well. The most astounding part to me is that, as excited and in love I was at that time it just doesn't compare to the love and excitement we now share as a couple. A good marriage truly does get better with time. Has our marriage always been perfect, by no means. A good marriage takes work, forgiveness, grace, unconditional love and most of all ,an attitude of unselfishness! Yes, I do believe when you commit to a spouse it should be with the mindset that this is a covenant with the Lord until death do us part. Only under circumstances out of our control should divorce ever be an option and even then I truly believe Gods heart is to ultimately seek restoration if possible. To receive the rewards of a long and strong marriage you have to faithfully pray and seek the Lord daily. Our marriage is by no means perfect but we do serve a perfect God who created marriage to be the perfect picture of his love for his bride ,the church, and his commitment to her.

Marriage is Gods way of preparing us for eternity. How exciting to be apart of something so much bigger than we are. So thankful that we are all apart of His master plan. We "choose" to make our marriages work. And it is work wouldn't you agree! Our initial "In Love" feelings are not always there or may have been lost for some time. Our marriage is a testimony of this, during the childrearing years our relationship struggled, and I turned 30, the midlife crisis age for most women.  I was up to my ears in diapers and sleepless nights and my hard working husband was gone many nights. "This isn't how it supposed to be, what happened to my storybook marriage". I often felt distant and very tired! I cried out to the Lord and looked to his word for wisdom.  In bible times, marriages were arranged (Don't think that is such a bad idea these days:), There was no time to "Fall in love". They were just married and that was that. After reading these stories over and over ,I realized something, love was a CHOICE! They choose to obey God and the covenant of marriage He had placed them in. And guess what? The feelings followed. This was a revelation in my marriage, and once I committed to making that choice daily, things began to change . You see, my attitude and choice to love changed me and that changed everything. Ladies whether we like it or not we set the tone of the home. Our speech ,emotions and body language,  are key the second our husbands walk in the door. My choice to love ,followed by a lot of prayer and bible study each day, made all the difference. Side note: if you want your husband to change, pray that the Lord will change you first.
It doesn't happen over night but I promise the Lord will bless your "Choice".

No greater JOY!

I recently experienced the birth of our new precious granddaughter. As the grandmother, of now 2 grandchildren, I can honestly say they do CHANGE your life! It is hard to explain the emotions you experience as you watch this precious new life come into this world. I must say I watched in awe as my daughter gave birth and the miracle of it all. The pain of labor on her face, and then the joy as she held her child for the first time. As a mother it is so precious to watch your own daughter experience this life changing event. This is truly a season of life to treasure. I am so grateful to the Lord for how he fills our empty nest with the gift of grandchildren. There is truly no greater JOY!

Turning 50

I love this time of year and all it brings. Cool air, flowers in bloom, birds singing and just an overall "newness of life" feeling. I'm reminded each spring even more of what it means to be
a NEW creature in Christ. My father always reminds me when I speak of getting older, that even though our outward body is wasting away, spiritually we are becoming younger each day. This thought of getting older is presently a fresh thought in my mind as I will be turning 50 next week. I don't feel that old except after I have worked all day on my feet ,drive 50 minutes home and then after sitting in the car, can hardly get out. Yes, my physical bones are decaying I can feel it!
How then shall we live? What should be our primary focus? Exercise and eating right are good things to preserve our physical body but what about our spiritual one? We our preparing our spiritual body for eternity each and every day as we spend time in His word and prayer. I pray you are seeking this renewal in your spiritual walk with our Savior! The bible says "Lest we become childlike in our faith, we will not inherit the kingdom of God." This childlike faith comes as we grow more into His likeness. So even though this earthy shell of ours is dying each day our spiritual body is becoming younger and younger. Isn't that an exciting thought! As His children He is getting us ready for a NEW LIFE with Him for eternity! Im sure looking forward to that
"BIRTH DAY!

The Road of Loneliness

Have you ever been in a crowded room and still felt all alone. What about in your own church with brothers and sisters in Christ who smile and say a casual hello ,but fail to take interest in or invest in the lives of others who so desire fellowship with other believers. So many times we think of being lonely as physically being alone, total quite and solitude, but this is not the kind of loneliness I am referring too. Just some examples: A workplace where values and convictions differ can bring about feelings of loneliness. A wife who longs to share spiritual intimacy with her mate. A group of women who all work outside the home and you are stay at home mom. Just to name a few, each of these scenarios, can result in feeling alone.
It is always easier to take the road of blending in, just to feel accepted and apart. Living a set apart life for Christ is not always a comfortable and cozy place to be. I have often felt lonely for not being one to partake in gossip involving other women. When you are not a gossiper you are left out of many a female conversation , sadly to say. As I was thinking about this topic , I was reminded of how lonely our Savior must have felt at times in living such a "set apart" lifestyle . Christ was so criticized, judged and rejected by his own, so called peers, the Pharisees. These were men who were considered the most "religious" people of that time. I use the word "religious" loosely since religion does not always involve a relationship with a living Savior. In the Pharisees case, they had the head knowledge followed by rules and regulations without an evident heart and life change. They were truly lost in need of a savior. Christ continued to take the narrow road less traveled because he could see the prize at the end. The bible says we are in a race as believers. Most runners run alone and keep their eyes on the goal, which is to finish the race. For us as wives and mothers there can be many distractions, how we spend our time being the biggest one. For example; shopping, tv, vacation planning , make-up and clothing , all so called "good" things but may not always be the "wise" thing. We can with Lords help, keep our focus on the goal of the upward calling of Christ Jesus. A good question to always ask ourselves is; " Will this activity bring Glory to God and or is it something that will help further His kingdom here on earth?" Try not shopping for a few weeks ,except for necessities, and you will be amazed at the time you now have available to focus on things of eternal value. It can be life changing if you are willing to give up such earthly pleasures. Our time is short and the road can be lonely but we as women , lonely or not , must run to the finish line to the hear the words ; "Well done my good and faithful daughter, you have finished well." Oh, how I pray to hear those words spoken of my life and my prayer is that you do as well.

Oh Those Winter Days

I have to say that even though I like cold weather,hot chocolate, warms fires and blankets, I"m very much a Florida sunshine girl. After a while it becomes somewhat depressing to me and I am ready for spring and summer. What I am getting at is that seasons and weather do very much affect our emotions and state of being, not so much as a child maybe, but as an adult very much so. I start to feel like I am hibernating some days and begin to miss the day to day contact with others. SO...... my solution to fighting these emotions you ask? Well, I begin by asking the Lord to show me others that may be in the same type of situation whether it be elderly that are housebound or sick friends or just someone who may be feeling likewise, and you know what He always does. I always remember a pastor who once said; "When you start to feel down focus on what you can do for others" I have never forgotten that over the years and thus have tried to take my focus off myself and in turn focus on the needs of others. So, if you are feeling somewhat "down" on these long winter days "get out and reach out" and all of that will change. The Lord is the author and creator of our well being and emotions and that is why He tells us to "Love our neighbor as our self", feed the hungry, care for the needy, not just because they need it but how much we need it also. I challenge you today that whatever state of being you are in to reach out to a lonely and hurting world, it is all around us if we will just take our eyes off ourselves and pray that we view the world around us through Christs eyes. "By this they will know that you are my disciples if you love one another". Thank you Lord that you always have our best interest in mind if we will just heed your WORD!

Holidays and Family

With the Holidays around the corner comes time with family. I love that the Holidays bring family together, especially when they live distances apart, and it is the only time throughout the year that you get to see certain family members. As wonderful as the Holidays are ,it doesn't come without tension,disappointment and stress. We have the best intentions , we have high expectations of everything going perfectly as planned with everyone smiling and getting along as though not a care in the world exists. But in reality we all know that this is not possible. Since Adam and Eve we have lived in a fallen world where sin lives within each and every one of us. As hard as we try, because of this sin, not even the best of families are exempt from things going array. I personally believe that family gatherings and holidays are Gods way of building character within each of us if we allow it! They are a gentle reminder that no mater how much you love your family they will fail you. Plans will fail, hurt feelings arise and expectations are shattered. Does this mean we are to dread the time with family and Holidays in general. Most definitely not! I can honestly tell you though, that I was at a place where I did until the Lord revealed a great truth to me. It was not audible but I knew it was for me. " As long as we live in a fallen and imperfect world with imperfect people forgiveness must be forefront on your heart or you will be miserable and live in a state of disappointment always especially around the holidays." Since the Lord revealed this truth to me I have had such freedom and joy during this time of year. Yes it still hurts and there are floods of emotions when family members say and do things that don't go as planned, but remember they are not our plans to begin with, they are the Lords if we have given them to Him in the first place. When we give our loved ones and plans to Him there is a sweet release that He is in control and all things will work for our good. Remember high expectations of others is always a dangerous thing.
None of us are above sin ,and where people exist so does hurt and disappointment, even with those we love the most. I guess the message I am trying to get across is "Commit your ways unto the Lord and your plans will be established" Pray and remain in an attitude of forgiveness of those around you, most importantly your family. As wives and mothers we must remember that we set the tone , so it is crucial that we seek the Lord daily and respond in Christlike character during these times. Our children will follow our example. Remember what comes out of the mouth is an indicator of what is in the heart! Look forward to this time of year, embrace it ,plan and prepare fun activities with family, make the effort to seek restoration in broken relationships. This is God's design and will ,that we love, forgive and receive one another, faults and all because HE so loved and forgave and receives us just as we are! Have a Blessed Christmas celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!