I received this in an email, and unfortunately I do not know the author, but I wanted to share it with you.
A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up; She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as one problem was solved, a new one arose.
Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water and placed each on a high fire. Soon the pots came to boil. In the first she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in the last she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil; without saying a word. In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl. Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl.
Turning to her daughter, she asked, ' Tell me what you see.' 'Carrots, eggs, and coffee,' she replied. Her mother brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. The mother then asked the daughter to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard boiled egg. Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled as she tasted its rich aroma.
The daughter then asked, 'What does it mean, mother?' Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity: boiling water. Each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water. 'Which are you?' she asked her daughter. 'When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond?
Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean? Think of this: Which am I? Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength? Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but after a death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and hardened heart? Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor.
If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you. When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest do you elevate yourself to another level? How do you handle adversity? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Friday, October 2, 2009
Mom, I'm Ready
“Mom, I’m ready to start having quiet times,” my 7 year old said quietly, as he entered the room at 6:30 AM yesterday. I was just getting into my own devotions but decided this was not one of those times to shush him. “That’s funny, I’ve actually been thinking a lot about that,” I told him. He continued, “When I wake up I want to stay up and not got back to bed, so I think I’m ready.” The rule at our house is before 7:00 it is “quiet time”, so daddy and mommy can get their devotions done in peace without questions, wants or demands. It doesn’t always happen but the kids know it is a rule.
The last time I was at my parents home, I found my “children’s daily devotional’s” that I used when I was a kid. I asked my mom to give these to him for his 8th birthday. I also asked her to write about the importance of spending time reading the Bible every day.
You see, when I was eight years old I asked Jesus to forgive me of my sins and come into my life. I thanked Him for what He did for me on the cross and I gave my heart to Him. Then, in order to get to know Him better I started having quiet times every day. I explained all this to Little Professor telling him how Grandma was going to send him the same books I used. His eyes lit up and he smiled real big. “But, if you want, in the meantime, you can start a journal and begin reading Proverbs” I told him.
“This is something my dad showed me,” I began, “the book of Proverbs is full of wisdom and there are 31 chapters. Look at the calendar and tell me how many days are in this month.” Little Professor cheered and noted that there are 31 days in October. “One for every single day!” he said. I gave him a black spiral notebook to use as his journal. Telling him that every day he could write in it what he wanted. He could write how he felt or anything at all, but to also write the verse he liked best from his reading and the date. I told him I still had one of my first journals.
So, my Little Professor started his journey yesterday October 1st, spending quiet time reading scripture. His 8th birthday is only 5 days away. This was an answer to a fervent prayer from a mother’s heart, who desperately wants all of her children to seek the Lord and follow hard after Him. I cannot tell you how wonderful it was for him to ask on his own!
“Mom”, he said, “I guess I have a head start on you, because I asked Jesus to come into my life when I was like two” I smiled and said, “not quite that young, but yes you do”
Not ten minutes later he had his verse, Proverbs 1:19. “This is a great one Mom, listen to this verse”. “All greedy people end up this way. Greed takes away the life of the greedy person.” “That’s really powerful, isn’t it mom?” I raised my eyebrows and said “wow, that sounds serious”. He shook his head and said “yeah, pirates really need to hear this one!”
The last time I was at my parents home, I found my “children’s daily devotional’s” that I used when I was a kid. I asked my mom to give these to him for his 8th birthday. I also asked her to write about the importance of spending time reading the Bible every day.
You see, when I was eight years old I asked Jesus to forgive me of my sins and come into my life. I thanked Him for what He did for me on the cross and I gave my heart to Him. Then, in order to get to know Him better I started having quiet times every day. I explained all this to Little Professor telling him how Grandma was going to send him the same books I used. His eyes lit up and he smiled real big. “But, if you want, in the meantime, you can start a journal and begin reading Proverbs” I told him.
“This is something my dad showed me,” I began, “the book of Proverbs is full of wisdom and there are 31 chapters. Look at the calendar and tell me how many days are in this month.” Little Professor cheered and noted that there are 31 days in October. “One for every single day!” he said. I gave him a black spiral notebook to use as his journal. Telling him that every day he could write in it what he wanted. He could write how he felt or anything at all, but to also write the verse he liked best from his reading and the date. I told him I still had one of my first journals.
So, my Little Professor started his journey yesterday October 1st, spending quiet time reading scripture. His 8th birthday is only 5 days away. This was an answer to a fervent prayer from a mother’s heart, who desperately wants all of her children to seek the Lord and follow hard after Him. I cannot tell you how wonderful it was for him to ask on his own!
“Mom”, he said, “I guess I have a head start on you, because I asked Jesus to come into my life when I was like two” I smiled and said, “not quite that young, but yes you do”
Not ten minutes later he had his verse, Proverbs 1:19. “This is a great one Mom, listen to this verse”. “All greedy people end up this way. Greed takes away the life of the greedy person.” “That’s really powerful, isn’t it mom?” I raised my eyebrows and said “wow, that sounds serious”. He shook his head and said “yeah, pirates really need to hear this one!”
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
The First Day Of School
Curious George started kindergarten Monday and was inspired to write this song. He had a great day which must have really sparked his creative juices.
It was the first day of school
When the bus came here
I was going to go to school
Until the bus broke down on me
And then the bus started going
But they didn’t fix it
and the driver was still in
and they saw a face
and a body in the air
And it was stealing the bus
And then the teacher said
EVERYONE!
(Sung to… lala la laaaaa)
It was the first day of school
When the bus came here
I was going to go to school
Until the bus broke down on me
And then the bus started going
But they didn’t fix it
and the driver was still in
and they saw a face
and a body in the air
And it was stealing the bus
And then the teacher said
EVERYONE!
GET OUT OF THE BUSS
A GHOST IS INSIDE !
And then this is happened
We were driving to school
And then the bus broke down again
And the ghost flew out
And they started to build the buss
And they were building the buss
For days....
And the days went by slow
And then the months went
It went summer, fall , winter
And then monsters existed
And monsters can break the doors
So I ran back to my house
And drived my car back to school
And the teacher was with me by my side
And I was old enough to drive a car
I drove it to school
And we found all these ghostest
At school and the ghostest were nice
But no one was at school everyone
Was gone including my teacher
My teacher drove away
And I wasn’t in the car
And then the ghostest flew out
And chased the teacher to her house
And the teacher ran and ran and ran
And ran to her house
Her house was across the world
So she ran so far
She bought a car
That didn’t’ have any gas
So she pushed it to a gas station
And pumped up some gas
And went to her house
And the ghost chased her back to school
And the car broke down
And then tow trucks didn’t exist
So she ran to school
She ran so far
She bought two cars
And left one at home
But she shouldn’t have done that
The ghost was chasing her
In a race car
And she was driving
She drove so far
She bought another car
And left it there
And more ghostest went
And that was a race car
And then she drove and her
Car blew up
But before... she ran out
(sing the last line very slowly)
And all the students were on the buss
The end
A GHOST IS INSIDE !
And then this is happened
We were driving to school
And then the bus broke down again
And the ghost flew out
And they started to build the buss
And they were building the buss
For days....
And the days went by slow
And then the months went
It went summer, fall , winter
And then monsters existed
And monsters can break the doors
So I ran back to my house
And drived my car back to school
And the teacher was with me by my side
And I was old enough to drive a car
I drove it to school
And we found all these ghostest
At school and the ghostest were nice
But no one was at school everyone
Was gone including my teacher
My teacher drove away
And I wasn’t in the car
And then the ghostest flew out
And chased the teacher to her house
And the teacher ran and ran and ran
And ran to her house
Her house was across the world
So she ran so far
She bought a car
That didn’t’ have any gas
So she pushed it to a gas station
And pumped up some gas
And went to her house
And the ghost chased her back to school
And the car broke down
And then tow trucks didn’t exist
So she ran to school
She ran so far
She bought two cars
And left one at home
But she shouldn’t have done that
The ghost was chasing her
In a race car
And she was driving
She drove so far
She bought another car
And left it there
And more ghostest went
And that was a race car
And then she drove and her
Car blew up
But before... she ran out
(sing the last line very slowly)
And all the students were on the buss
The end
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Living In Christ
Living In Christ
Let every part of your life--your person, your style, your direction, your flavor—be in Him. When you’re in Him, then you’re based on truth. You’ll be honest and genuine through and through; you’ll be coordinated, all of a piece; you’ll be in harmony with yourself. And then you can grow within yourself to unlimited dimensions—and all because you’re in God.
Faddish lives age quickly. They’re not based on God, who is greater than all culture and all generations, so twenty years from now they’ll seem faded and “out of it.” Anchor yourself to the great “I AM”, and you will develop more and more into a woman who is ageless, whole, true, and at rest.—ANNE ORTLUND Disciplines of the Heart
For in Him dwells all the fullness of the godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:9-10
Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God. 1 Corinthians 3:4-5
For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? 1 John 5:4-5
Let every part of your life--your person, your style, your direction, your flavor—be in Him. When you’re in Him, then you’re based on truth. You’ll be honest and genuine through and through; you’ll be coordinated, all of a piece; you’ll be in harmony with yourself. And then you can grow within yourself to unlimited dimensions—and all because you’re in God.
Faddish lives age quickly. They’re not based on God, who is greater than all culture and all generations, so twenty years from now they’ll seem faded and “out of it.” Anchor yourself to the great “I AM”, and you will develop more and more into a woman who is ageless, whole, true, and at rest.—ANNE ORTLUND Disciplines of the Heart
For in Him dwells all the fullness of the godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:9-10
Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God. 1 Corinthians 3:4-5
For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? 1 John 5:4-5
Lord, You know my desire is to follow You. Help me to stay the course and keep my eyes focused on You no matter what goes on around me. Give me strength not only when I am weak but always. You’re strength is what I want to rely on not my own. Open my eyes so that I may see how you are at work around me and through me. Help me to be faithful in seeking You. I thank You for Your sacrificial love. And I thank You for Your patience with me. Mold me and make me according to Your will.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
I hate footprints
My conversation with Lover Boy started when he was talking to himself as he painted a picture. He kept saying over and over to himself “Me hate footprints”. I decided to talk with him about it.
ME: What are you saying?
LB: Mommy, me hate footprints
ME: you what?
LB: Me HATE footprints
ME: I hate footprints
LB: you hate footprints too?
ME: no silly, say I hate footprints instead of me hate footprints. Umm why do you hate footprints?
LB: I hate footprints
ME: I know but why?
LB: ‘cause I hate footprints, I hate mommy footprints, dada footprints, brother footprints and sister footprints. I hate all those (he doesn’t have a sister)
ME: Is there a reason you hate them
LB: yeah
ME: why?
LB: ’cause... I hate footprints
ME: what do you hate about footprints?
LB: What I hate about footprints is I hate moner footprints
ME: did you say monster footprints ?
LB: yeah, not people,.. actually I do
ME: What does hate mean
LB: hate means bad, me tell my teacher , teacher, does hate mean bad and she say (different voice) yeah hate means bad. See, hate mean bad.
ME: What is a footprint?
LB: footprint is... is... see these (points to feet) um... um.... no tell you yet follow me (walks outside) mama help me find mud
ME: what? Why mud
LB: I need mud to put my feet to make footprint
ME: does water work?
LB : no must be mud
ME: let’s just try water
LB: (steps in pool) see, no make footprint
ME: step on side walk right after you get your foot wet
LB: oh yeah, but not good because disappears
I never did find out why he hates footprints, but it was a precious conversation with my three year old.
ME: What are you saying?
LB: Mommy, me hate footprints
ME: you what?
LB: Me HATE footprints
ME: I hate footprints
LB: you hate footprints too?
ME: no silly, say I hate footprints instead of me hate footprints. Umm why do you hate footprints?
LB: I hate footprints
ME: I know but why?
LB: ‘cause I hate footprints, I hate mommy footprints, dada footprints, brother footprints and sister footprints. I hate all those (he doesn’t have a sister)
ME: Is there a reason you hate them
LB: yeah
ME: why?
LB: ’cause... I hate footprints
ME: what do you hate about footprints?
LB: What I hate about footprints is I hate moner footprints
ME: did you say monster footprints ?
LB: yeah, not people,.. actually I do
ME: What does hate mean
LB: hate means bad, me tell my teacher , teacher, does hate mean bad and she say (different voice) yeah hate means bad. See, hate mean bad.
ME: What is a footprint?
LB: footprint is... is... see these (points to feet) um... um.... no tell you yet follow me (walks outside) mama help me find mud
ME: what? Why mud
LB: I need mud to put my feet to make footprint
ME: does water work?
LB : no must be mud
ME: let’s just try water
LB: (steps in pool) see, no make footprint
ME: step on side walk right after you get your foot wet
LB: oh yeah, but not good because disappears
I never did find out why he hates footprints, but it was a precious conversation with my three year old.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Soggy Mac 'n Cheese
Little Professor decided that he would make himself some Mac 'n Cheese for lunch. I've been trying to slowly teach him how to cook, so I let him do it all. I kept telling him he needed to check and recheck the instructions.
Little Professor new best and skipped the "drain the pasta" part. He added the fake powder cheese and butter to the swimming elbow macaroni. I didn't know what he had done until he asked when it would get thick.
No worries, I scooped up the excess water and he thought it was the best ever because he had made it himself. It was just a little soggy that's all.
Little Professor new best and skipped the "drain the pasta" part. He added the fake powder cheese and butter to the swimming elbow macaroni. I didn't know what he had done until he asked when it would get thick.
No worries, I scooped up the excess water and he thought it was the best ever because he had made it himself. It was just a little soggy that's all.
Monday, July 6, 2009
They Sure Do Love Their Daddy
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My boys sure love their daddy
I’m glad they do too
sometimes it is a little comical
sometimes I have to really focus out
instead of in.
I know they love their mommy too,
Not always as obvious,
especially day in and out
spending all day together
sometimes it’s hard
not to be selfish
I see their little excited eyes light up
Daddy walks in the door after work
Those mornings, trying to comfort them
Missed out on his goodbye hug
Time alone with Daddy
Mommy comes home to tears.
tears that mark the end of “boy’s night”
not because I was missed
My boys sure do love their daddy
This is a conversation that happened on our way to church Sunday morning.
Curious George: Daddy, these samwiches are yummy!
Little Professor: Yup, you are really a good chef
Curious George: Maybe you can teach Mommy to make these.
Little Professor: Yah Mommy, you should really learn to cook from Daddy, he’s the best.
Kirk and I exchange glances,
he knows as well as I
I have made those same egg sandwiches before
I am the better cook
Well… I do cook most of the meals
But, everything Daddy makes tastes so much better
I smile now
sometimes I do feel a jab in my pride
but at the end of the day
It does bless my heart to know
My boys sure love their daddy
I’m glad they do too
sometimes it is a little comical
sometimes I have to really focus out
instead of in.
I know they love their mommy too,
Not always as obvious,
especially day in and out
spending all day together
sometimes it’s hard
not to be selfish
I see their little excited eyes light up
Daddy walks in the door after work
Those mornings, trying to comfort them
Missed out on his goodbye hug
Time alone with Daddy
Mommy comes home to tears.
tears that mark the end of “boy’s night”
not because I was missed
My boys sure do love their daddy
This is a conversation that happened on our way to church Sunday morning.
Curious George: Daddy, these samwiches are yummy!
Little Professor: Yup, you are really a good chef
Curious George: Maybe you can teach Mommy to make these.
Little Professor: Yah Mommy, you should really learn to cook from Daddy, he’s the best.
Kirk and I exchange glances,
he knows as well as I
I have made those same egg sandwiches before
I am the better cook
Well… I do cook most of the meals
But, everything Daddy makes tastes so much better
I smile now
sometimes I do feel a jab in my pride
but at the end of the day
It does bless my heart to know
My boys sure love their daddy
I sure love their daddy too!
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Sometimes I Make Myself Sad
Now is one of those moments that I’m not real proud of. It is 9:00AM and my kids are all in their beds with the lights out, not because they are still sleeping, but on time out. It’s cold and rainy outside, it feels dreary because of the fog and my attitude doesn’t help either.
I love starting new Bible studies. I woke up early this morning ready to dive in and get filled spiritually and hear from God. Well, so did Little Professor very excited about a new collection he started, “baseball cards”. There is so much he wanted to share with me, but I calmly reminded him that “right now” is mommy’s only time to spend time with Jesus. I decided to let him play on the computer while I started.
A moment later Curious George woke up and needed to talk as well. I told him the same thing I told Little Professor. He wanted desperately to “do beads”. The only problem is yesterday when he was working on it he accidentally spilled them and didn’t want to clean up, so they (the beads) are on time out for today. I calmly (still calm) explained the situation to him. He then kept begging (hands in prayer position on his knees and everything) and whining. I sent him to his room because he wouldn’t stop and I wasn’t going to lose my temper, but that turned out to be a big mistake.
Lover Boy was still asleep in the same room that I sent Curious George to. So that didn’t last long especially when Curious George was yelling at the top of his lungs “can I come out now?”. Three kids awake, still on page one of my Bible study and the coffee is overflowing the pot in the kitchen. I’m still okay though a little rattled, but okay. It isn’t 7 yet so there is still time.
Hubby wakes up, gets coffee and starts to read his Bible. There is peace, and I finish reading the first three pages (dedication, foreword, and introduction), I’m about to start the actual Bible part and that is as far as I got. Now I am a little flustered, because breakfast needs to be made, kids need to be dressed and at some point I need to dress too.
Hubby leaves for work, kids are fed, I’m still not dressed. I decide to read from a devotional book “Joy for the Journey”. I was convicted because while the kids were eating and complaining about what I made for breakfast, I was snapping at them so much it just became my normal tone. The verse that stood out to me was Col 3:12, “As the elect of God,… put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering.” I sure wasn’t being tender or kind. Another verse, 1 Cor. 10:31 “Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” It’s no fun feeling like a failure as a loving mom before 8:00 AM.
I decided to share the verse with others so I got online. For some reason it makes me feel more accountable, and sometimes people write back very encouraging notes. It only took me five minutes, but then I lost it again. I heard screaming, crying, and laughing coming from my three boys in the other room. The youngest was crying saying “ouchy” while chasing the other two swinging a bat in one hand and a light saber in the other. This is why they were all on time out, but they are all playing nicely now.
Dear Lord, please help me today to honor You in all that I do and say. Help me to show my children the same kind of tenderness, mercy, and kindness You show me. It is only 9:30 in the morning and I know I’m really going to need Your help if I’m going to make it for the next 11 hours. Help me to encourage others, lead me and guide me in what Your will is today.
I love starting new Bible studies. I woke up early this morning ready to dive in and get filled spiritually and hear from God. Well, so did Little Professor very excited about a new collection he started, “baseball cards”. There is so much he wanted to share with me, but I calmly reminded him that “right now” is mommy’s only time to spend time with Jesus. I decided to let him play on the computer while I started.
A moment later Curious George woke up and needed to talk as well. I told him the same thing I told Little Professor. He wanted desperately to “do beads”. The only problem is yesterday when he was working on it he accidentally spilled them and didn’t want to clean up, so they (the beads) are on time out for today. I calmly (still calm) explained the situation to him. He then kept begging (hands in prayer position on his knees and everything) and whining. I sent him to his room because he wouldn’t stop and I wasn’t going to lose my temper, but that turned out to be a big mistake.
Lover Boy was still asleep in the same room that I sent Curious George to. So that didn’t last long especially when Curious George was yelling at the top of his lungs “can I come out now?”. Three kids awake, still on page one of my Bible study and the coffee is overflowing the pot in the kitchen. I’m still okay though a little rattled, but okay. It isn’t 7 yet so there is still time.
Hubby wakes up, gets coffee and starts to read his Bible. There is peace, and I finish reading the first three pages (dedication, foreword, and introduction), I’m about to start the actual Bible part and that is as far as I got. Now I am a little flustered, because breakfast needs to be made, kids need to be dressed and at some point I need to dress too.
Hubby leaves for work, kids are fed, I’m still not dressed. I decide to read from a devotional book “Joy for the Journey”. I was convicted because while the kids were eating and complaining about what I made for breakfast, I was snapping at them so much it just became my normal tone. The verse that stood out to me was Col 3:12, “As the elect of God,… put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering.” I sure wasn’t being tender or kind. Another verse, 1 Cor. 10:31 “Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” It’s no fun feeling like a failure as a loving mom before 8:00 AM.
I decided to share the verse with others so I got online. For some reason it makes me feel more accountable, and sometimes people write back very encouraging notes. It only took me five minutes, but then I lost it again. I heard screaming, crying, and laughing coming from my three boys in the other room. The youngest was crying saying “ouchy” while chasing the other two swinging a bat in one hand and a light saber in the other. This is why they were all on time out, but they are all playing nicely now.
Dear Lord, please help me today to honor You in all that I do and say. Help me to show my children the same kind of tenderness, mercy, and kindness You show me. It is only 9:30 in the morning and I know I’m really going to need Your help if I’m going to make it for the next 11 hours. Help me to encourage others, lead me and guide me in what Your will is today.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Saying goodbye to my 30's
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Even though my 3rd decade was my absolute best ...
I still haven’t learned:
How to conquer laziness
How to plant a garden
How to die to self
Work now and play later
How to keep a plant alive
How to take care of myself
To hate or even dislike fast food
Consistency
How to control my anger
To have an organized and well kept house
Diligence
Eating candy doesn’t make me motivated or happy
How to “just do it”
How to sew
How to bake bread
How to play the guitar
To control my weight
But what I have learned, I hope to pass on to others and grow stronger still
I have learned:
God still speaks
When I am weak He is strong
When I think I stand then I am more susceptible to fall
Knowing my neighbors is a beautiful thing
God is completely sovereign and I can’t ruin His plan.
I have no idea what is going on in someone else’s life so I cannot judge them.
There is a difference between chocolate and “good” chocolate
When I obey God, wonderful things happen
My mom is an amazing person
Kids are a lot of work, but I wouldn’t trade mine for anything
Growth is doing something out of my comfort zone
Women’s Bible Study is powerful
Reading is fun
God is bigger than anything I can mess up
God’s way is so much better than my way could ever possibly be
Praying God’s will is different than praying for God to bless my will
Women are fun to be around and encouraging
God will put me where He wants me I just need to be available
Even when I think things can’t be better God surprises me
When I think I can’t go on, God sustains me
Even when I’m not, God remains faithful
I am only in control of my own spiritual life
I am not the Holy Spirit in other people’s lives
There is nothing I can do to earn God’s love or make Him love me more
I am still under construction
My Maker is in the business of making masterpieces
So, I welcome my new chapter in life. I say goodbye 30's and hello 40's. This next chapter is going to be even better than my last. It will bring adventure and growth in areas I didn't dream possible. My God is on the throne and He knows what He is doing! I am ready to take on the world!
But for now... I need to wash "loverboy's" muddy feet and clean up his footprints from the carpet.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
The Sacrifice Lamb
I just love this song! I copied it from a dear friends website.
THE SACRIFICE LAMB
(Joel Chernoff)
Have you ever heard Messiah has come?
It says in His Word to cleanse every one
Atonement He made iniquity bore
That we can find life in Him evermore
The Sacrifice Lamb has been slain
His blood on the alter a stain
To wipe away guilt and pain
To bring hope eternal
Salvation has come to the world
God's only Son to the world
Jesus the one for the world
Yeshua is He
The prophets of old
speak much of Messiah
His death is foretold the purpose is clear
Isaiah did say 'twas for an atonement
To give us a way that leads not to death
The Sacrifice Lamb has been slain
His blood on the alter a stain
To wipe away guilt and pain
To bring hope eternal
Salvation has come to the world
God's only Son to the world
Jesus the one for the world
Yeshua is He
So brothers of mine look not to yourselves
For we are but one we all need His help
We've broken the Law but He paid our debt
That we can find life by Yeshua's death
The Sacrifice Lamb has been slain
His Blood on the alter a stain
To wipe away guilt and pain
To bring hope eternal
So final atonement has come
And brought us new hope by God's Son
If you will believe in your heart
Yeshua you'll know
Friday, April 10, 2009
Who Killed Jesus?
Was it Roman soldiers, with their tools of war?
Driving nails through hands that did no wrong?
Mocking and abusing, crowning Him with thorns,
All the evidence is very strong.
Ch: Who killed Jesus many years ago?
Who is guilty of a crime so low?
Why did He have to die, what is the reason why?
Who Killed Jesus? I would like to know.
Was it Pontius Pilate? He was governor,
Trying to decide the case that day-
Finding that the Savior had no fault His own,
Was he guilty when he turned away?
Ch: Who killed Jesus many years ago?
Who is guilty of a crime so low?
Why did He have to die, what is the reason why?
Who Killed Jesus? I would like to know.
Was it Hebrew children, proud of who they were?
Shouting, “Crucify Him?” at their King?
Trading their Messiah for a common thief,
Turning down the kingdom He could bring.
Ch: Who killed Jesus many years ago?
Who is guilty of a crime so low?
Why did He have to die, what is the reason why?
Who Killed Jesus? I would like to know.
When I think of Jesus and the way He died,
How upon Him all my sin was laid,
all the other people fade away from view,
It’s for me the sacrifice was made.
2nd Ch: I no longer wonder anymore—
I have found what I’ve been searching for!
My sin demanded hell—on Him the judgment fell—
I am guilty, now it’s plain to see—
that it was really me!
This song was one of my all time favorites growing up as a kid, especially after I came to know the Lord as my personal Lord and Savior (I don’t know the author).
Today marks the anniversary of my “Spiritual Birthday”. Thirty-two years ago on this day, I asked my mom a question that changed my life forever. “If Jesus was killed on this day why do we call it good?” My sweet mother sat me down, a new believer herself, and explained to me that I was not perfect and that is the only way to get into heaven. Jesus who was perfect died on this day many years ago to pay for my sins. All I needed to do was believe in Him and that He died for me and I could go to heaven. So it was a “good” day because if Jesus hadn’t died we would have no way to get to heaven.
Only eight at the time, I didn’t have any questions or doubts about what she was saying. It made perfect sense to me. I didn’t need her to prove it, she was my mom and I had seen evidence in her life and my dad’s the entire year before. Something was different about them, Jesus had changed their lives. So I prayed with my mother and my life was forever changed also. Not perfect by any means, but definitely forgiven.
Isaiah 53:5-6 “But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His wounds we are healed. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.”
2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!”
Driving nails through hands that did no wrong?
Mocking and abusing, crowning Him with thorns,
All the evidence is very strong.
Ch: Who killed Jesus many years ago?
Who is guilty of a crime so low?
Why did He have to die, what is the reason why?
Who Killed Jesus? I would like to know.
Was it Pontius Pilate? He was governor,
Trying to decide the case that day-
Finding that the Savior had no fault His own,
Was he guilty when he turned away?
Ch: Who killed Jesus many years ago?
Who is guilty of a crime so low?
Why did He have to die, what is the reason why?
Who Killed Jesus? I would like to know.
Was it Hebrew children, proud of who they were?
Shouting, “Crucify Him?” at their King?
Trading their Messiah for a common thief,
Turning down the kingdom He could bring.
Ch: Who killed Jesus many years ago?
Who is guilty of a crime so low?
Why did He have to die, what is the reason why?
Who Killed Jesus? I would like to know.
When I think of Jesus and the way He died,
How upon Him all my sin was laid,
all the other people fade away from view,
It’s for me the sacrifice was made.
2nd Ch: I no longer wonder anymore—
I have found what I’ve been searching for!
My sin demanded hell—on Him the judgment fell—
I am guilty, now it’s plain to see—
that it was really me!
This song was one of my all time favorites growing up as a kid, especially after I came to know the Lord as my personal Lord and Savior (I don’t know the author).
Today marks the anniversary of my “Spiritual Birthday”. Thirty-two years ago on this day, I asked my mom a question that changed my life forever. “If Jesus was killed on this day why do we call it good?” My sweet mother sat me down, a new believer herself, and explained to me that I was not perfect and that is the only way to get into heaven. Jesus who was perfect died on this day many years ago to pay for my sins. All I needed to do was believe in Him and that He died for me and I could go to heaven. So it was a “good” day because if Jesus hadn’t died we would have no way to get to heaven.
Only eight at the time, I didn’t have any questions or doubts about what she was saying. It made perfect sense to me. I didn’t need her to prove it, she was my mom and I had seen evidence in her life and my dad’s the entire year before. Something was different about them, Jesus had changed their lives. So I prayed with my mother and my life was forever changed also. Not perfect by any means, but definitely forgiven.
Isaiah 53:5-6 “But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His wounds we are healed. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.”
2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!”
Saturday, April 4, 2009
If You Could Send a Letter?
This is a poem that came to me in the shower when I was visiting my parents over a year ago. It was so strong that I had to write it down immediately. It scared me because I wondered who it was for. Only a few days later, my friend unexpectedly lost her 10 year old daughter Madison. This poem was for her. I added the last four verses at that time and sent it to the family. I am so amazed when God uses me, and there is no mistake in knowing it is Him not me. I thought today I would post it, since it has been one year since Madison went to be with Jesus.
If you could send a letter
What would you say?
A day is really as a thousand
And a thousand only as one day?
Are His Almighty arms
Small enough to hold you tight,
Do you have to shield your eyes
From His Heavenly Holy light?
How is it living without time?
Do you have nights and days?
Do you know what lies before us?
Do you understand all His ways?
If you could send a letter
Would you be able to share?
What your eyes behold
Or is their nothing to compare?
Would you even want to write about
The things that have passed your eyes?
Or is it just too glorious
And you don’t want to ruin the surprise?
I wish I could see you up there in heaven
Do you dance before the King of Kings?
Do you speak with His Angels?
What are the songs that you sing?
What is it like to stand before Him
Seeing Jesus face to face?
To be in the presence of the Creator
To be held in His embrace?
Oh how I wish you could send us a letter
Even though we know you are doing well
Just to hear from you what it is like
With the Everlasting Father to dwell
How is life for you my darling,
Free from your earthly shell
With eyes that see, a mouth that speaks
Perfect arms and legs that didn’t work so well?
God allowed us to be blessed by you
Our hearts long for you my child
Your memory will live on in our hearts
We will miss your happy smile
If you could write a letter
Would you be excited just to say,
The many things you couldn’t do here
You do over and over every day?
I look forward to the time
When we will see you again.
God heal our broken hearts, restore our joy
We love you, Madison.
If you could send a letter
What would you say?
A day is really as a thousand
And a thousand only as one day?
Are His Almighty arms
Small enough to hold you tight,
Do you have to shield your eyes
From His Heavenly Holy light?
How is it living without time?
Do you have nights and days?
Do you know what lies before us?
Do you understand all His ways?
If you could send a letter
Would you be able to share?
What your eyes behold
Or is their nothing to compare?
Would you even want to write about
The things that have passed your eyes?
Or is it just too glorious
And you don’t want to ruin the surprise?
I wish I could see you up there in heaven
Do you dance before the King of Kings?
Do you speak with His Angels?
What are the songs that you sing?
What is it like to stand before Him
Seeing Jesus face to face?
To be in the presence of the Creator
To be held in His embrace?
Oh how I wish you could send us a letter
Even though we know you are doing well
Just to hear from you what it is like
With the Everlasting Father to dwell
How is life for you my darling,
Free from your earthly shell
With eyes that see, a mouth that speaks
Perfect arms and legs that didn’t work so well?
God allowed us to be blessed by you
Our hearts long for you my child
Your memory will live on in our hearts
We will miss your happy smile
If you could write a letter
Would you be excited just to say,
The many things you couldn’t do here
You do over and over every day?
I look forward to the time
When we will see you again.
God heal our broken hearts, restore our joy
We love you, Madison.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
First reaction - PRAY
Today an interesting thing happened. Horrifying to me actually, but I just had to write about it.
I had to pick up "Lover Boy" early from preschool because he wasn't feeling too well. I didn't mind except that it cut my visit short with a dear friend. The weather had really started to change quickly and by the time we were leaving from picking up "Curious George" from his pre-K class the wind had picked up and it was snowing.
I "strongly" suggested we get to the car quickly because of the cold, but I did not say go crazy and start pushing each other. As we approached the gate to get out of the school yard, "Curious George" unlatched it and was through it in a flash. I'm not sure what happened with "Lover Boy", but he missed and ended up hitting the handle (that sticks straight out) with his face. At first I thought it was his forehead that was hit. As he screamed in pain we rushed to the car to get out of the wind so I could look at him more carefully. I asked him what he had hit and with his eyes closed shut he said his eyeball.
I laid hands on him and prayed immediately, asking God to protect his vision, protect his eye and help me to be calm. Then I made him open his eye. It was dark red and his tears that I wiped with a tissue were pink. I started to panic and prayed again. When I finished I was still shaking, all I could think about was how hard he hit that handle. I examined his eye again. There wasn't even a hint of pink, he looked at me and said,"no hurt no more mommy". Praise God! I couldn't hold back my tears of gratitude and awe.
Thank You Lord for protecting my baby!
On the way home the conversation was about losing eyeballs and how to pop them back in. Whether or not they bounce and what it would be like to be blind in one eye. I smiled as my 5 year old and 3 year old discussed these things, knowing full well the truth, that God stepped in and protected my son from a very real and scary situation.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Today is day # 329
“Man's days are determined; You have decreed the number of his months and have set limits he cannot exceed.” (Job 14:5) "Show me, O LORD, my life's end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting is my life.” (Psalm 39:4) “Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12)
Since my last birthday I have been literally numbering my days. Probably because I turned 39 and I didn’t want the BIG 40 to sneak up on me. I remember reading the scriptures above and thinking, I wonder if it would make a difference if I actually did start numbering my days.
Today I am on day 329. Has doing this changed the way I do things? I don’t know, but I do know that I am more aware of how quickly time is passing by. I want to do fun things so that I don’t miss out on opportunities with my children. It has made me grateful for the days I have had and this birthday won’t sneak up on me.
I haven’t finished any of my goals that I wanted to have accomplished by the time I turned 40. I know I have a little time left, but I'm not discouraged. I have done things that are more important to me than those goals originally were. One thing is for sure, I feel like I have been more diligent with my days and have not let as many go to waste.
I guess actually assigning a number to each day has made a difference. So I’m going to make today, day 329, count.
Lord, give me wisdom to live my days and use them for Your glory. Open my eyes so that I may see where You want to use me and who You want to bless through me.
Since my last birthday I have been literally numbering my days. Probably because I turned 39 and I didn’t want the BIG 40 to sneak up on me. I remember reading the scriptures above and thinking, I wonder if it would make a difference if I actually did start numbering my days.
Today I am on day 329. Has doing this changed the way I do things? I don’t know, but I do know that I am more aware of how quickly time is passing by. I want to do fun things so that I don’t miss out on opportunities with my children. It has made me grateful for the days I have had and this birthday won’t sneak up on me.
I haven’t finished any of my goals that I wanted to have accomplished by the time I turned 40. I know I have a little time left, but I'm not discouraged. I have done things that are more important to me than those goals originally were. One thing is for sure, I feel like I have been more diligent with my days and have not let as many go to waste.
I guess actually assigning a number to each day has made a difference. So I’m going to make today, day 329, count.
Lord, give me wisdom to live my days and use them for Your glory. Open my eyes so that I may see where You want to use me and who You want to bless through me.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Attitude Check
This morning I feel as if God has said, "honey you need to check your attitude" I've been feeling sick lately and I haven't even been worried about my attitude. I'm sure it hasn't been good, and I know I have left it unchecked. I am bothered by my carelessness. Who has been affected by my unfriendly, grouchy, not very nice attitude? My family for sure, and who knows who I've come in contact with these last few days/weeks. By the way... when was the last time I checked my attitude? What a scary thought!
I love what Charles Swindoll said about attitude:
Words can never adequately convey the incredible impact of our attitude toward life. The longer I live the more convinced I become that life is 10 percent what happens to us and 90 percent how we respond to it.I believe the single most significant decision I can make on a day-to-day basis is my choice of attitude. It is more important than my past, my education, my bankroll, my successes or failures, fame or pain, what other people think of me or say about me, my circumstances, or my position. Attitude keeps me going or cripples my progress. It alone fuels my fire or assaults my hope. When my attitudes are right, there's no barrier too high, no valley too deep, no dream too extreme, no challenge too great for me. --by Charles R. Swindoll
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Can God Be Trusted?
Why is it so hard sometimes to trust a Sovereign God?
Sovereign means: above or superior to all others; chief; greatest; supreme - supreme in power, rank, or authority - of or holding the position of ruler; royal; reigning
I know that He is Sovereign:
"O Sovereign LORD, You have begun to show to Your servant Your greatness and Your strong hand. For what god is there in heaven or on earth who can do the deeds and mighty works You do?” (Deuteronomy 3:24)
"How great You are, O Sovereign LORD! There is no one like You, and there is no God but You, as we have heard with our own ears.” (2 Samuel 7:22)
"Ah, Sovereign LORD, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for You. (Jeremiah 32:17)
I know that He is my Creator:
“Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and His understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” (Isaiah 40:28-29)
I know that He is unchanging:
“Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (James 1:16-17)
"Remember this, fix it in mind, take it to heart,… Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me. I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say: My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please. From the east I summon a bird of prey; from a far-off land, a man to fulfill My purpose. What I have said, that will I bring about; what I have planned, that will I do.” (Isaiah 46:8-11)
I know that He knows me:
“O LORD, You have searched me and You know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; You perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; You are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue You know it completely, O LORD. You hem me in—behind and before; You have laid Your hand upon me.” (Psalm 139:1-5)
“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” (Luke 12:6-7)
"Listen to me, …you whom I have upheld since you were conceived, and have carried since your birth. Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. To whom will you compare Me or count Me equal? To whom will you liken Me that we may be compared?” (Isaiah 46:3-5)
I know that He loves me:
“The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness.” (Jeremiah 31:3)
"For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
“As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Now remain in My love.”(John 15:9)
“This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.”(1 John 4:9-10)
I know that nothing can separate me from His love:
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”(Romans 8:37-39)
I know that He cares for me:
“The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him,” (Nahum 1:7)
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”( 1 Peter 5:7)
I know that He has a plan for me:
“For I know the plans I have for you,“ declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”(Jeremiah 29:11)
I know that I am precious to Him:
“Keep me as the apple of Your eye; hide me in the shadow of Your wings” (Psalm 17:8)
"…I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of My hands; your walls are ever before Me.”(Isaiah 49:15-16)
“My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of My Father's hand.” (John 10:27-29)
I know that He is with me:
“I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, 'You are My servant'; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”(Isaiah 41:9-10)
“But now, this is what the LORD says— He who created you,… He who formed you, …"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine.”(Isaiah 43:1)
“Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:8-9)
Dear Lord there is absolutely no reason I should not trust You, help me in my unbelief!
“Those who know Your name will trust in You, for You, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek You.” (Psalm 9:10) “But I trust in Your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in Your salvation.” (Psalm 13:5) “In You our fathers put their trust; they trusted and You delivered them. They cried to You and were saved; in You they trusted and were not disappointed.” (Psalm 22:4-5) “The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song.” (Psalm 28:7) “But I trust in You, O LORD; I say, "You are my God." My times are in Your hands;”(Psalm 31:14-15) “Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you. Many are the woes of the wicked, but the LORD's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in Him. Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart!”(Psalm 32:9-11) “Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him and He will do this:” (Psalm 37:5) “When I am afraid, I will trust in You.” (Psalm 56:3) “Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.” (Psalm 62:8)“O LORD Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you.” (Psalm 84:12) “I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." (Psalm 91:2) “He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.” (Psalm 112:7) “Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You. Show me the way I should go, for to You I lift up my soul.” (Psalm 143:8) “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;” (Proverbs 3:5) “Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD, is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation." (Isaiah 12:2) “You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in You. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD, is the Rock eternal.” (Isaiah 26:3-4) "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him.” (Jeremiah 17:7) "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in Me.” (John 14:1) “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13)
Lord teach me to trust in You!
Sovereign means: above or superior to all others; chief; greatest; supreme - supreme in power, rank, or authority - of or holding the position of ruler; royal; reigning
I know that He is Sovereign:
"O Sovereign LORD, You have begun to show to Your servant Your greatness and Your strong hand. For what god is there in heaven or on earth who can do the deeds and mighty works You do?” (Deuteronomy 3:24)
"How great You are, O Sovereign LORD! There is no one like You, and there is no God but You, as we have heard with our own ears.” (2 Samuel 7:22)
"Ah, Sovereign LORD, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for You. (Jeremiah 32:17)
I know that He is my Creator:
“Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and His understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” (Isaiah 40:28-29)
I know that He is unchanging:
“Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (James 1:16-17)
"Remember this, fix it in mind, take it to heart,… Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me. I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say: My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please. From the east I summon a bird of prey; from a far-off land, a man to fulfill My purpose. What I have said, that will I bring about; what I have planned, that will I do.” (Isaiah 46:8-11)
I know that He knows me:
“O LORD, You have searched me and You know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; You perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; You are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue You know it completely, O LORD. You hem me in—behind and before; You have laid Your hand upon me.” (Psalm 139:1-5)
“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” (Luke 12:6-7)
"Listen to me, …you whom I have upheld since you were conceived, and have carried since your birth. Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. To whom will you compare Me or count Me equal? To whom will you liken Me that we may be compared?” (Isaiah 46:3-5)
I know that He loves me:
“The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness.” (Jeremiah 31:3)
"For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
“As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Now remain in My love.”(John 15:9)
“This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.”(1 John 4:9-10)
I know that nothing can separate me from His love:
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”(Romans 8:37-39)
I know that He cares for me:
“The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him,” (Nahum 1:7)
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”( 1 Peter 5:7)
I know that He has a plan for me:
“For I know the plans I have for you,“ declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”(Jeremiah 29:11)
I know that I am precious to Him:
“Keep me as the apple of Your eye; hide me in the shadow of Your wings” (Psalm 17:8)
"…I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of My hands; your walls are ever before Me.”(Isaiah 49:15-16)
“My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of My Father's hand.” (John 10:27-29)
I know that He is with me:
“I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, 'You are My servant'; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”(Isaiah 41:9-10)
“But now, this is what the LORD says— He who created you,… He who formed you, …"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine.”(Isaiah 43:1)
“Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:8-9)
Dear Lord there is absolutely no reason I should not trust You, help me in my unbelief!
“Those who know Your name will trust in You, for You, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek You.” (Psalm 9:10) “But I trust in Your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in Your salvation.” (Psalm 13:5) “In You our fathers put their trust; they trusted and You delivered them. They cried to You and were saved; in You they trusted and were not disappointed.” (Psalm 22:4-5) “The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song.” (Psalm 28:7) “But I trust in You, O LORD; I say, "You are my God." My times are in Your hands;”(Psalm 31:14-15) “Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you. Many are the woes of the wicked, but the LORD's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in Him. Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart!”(Psalm 32:9-11) “Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him and He will do this:” (Psalm 37:5) “When I am afraid, I will trust in You.” (Psalm 56:3) “Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.” (Psalm 62:8)“O LORD Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you.” (Psalm 84:12) “I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." (Psalm 91:2) “He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.” (Psalm 112:7) “Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You. Show me the way I should go, for to You I lift up my soul.” (Psalm 143:8) “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;” (Proverbs 3:5) “Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD, is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation." (Isaiah 12:2) “You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in You. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD, is the Rock eternal.” (Isaiah 26:3-4) "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him.” (Jeremiah 17:7) "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in Me.” (John 14:1) “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13)
Lord teach me to trust in You!
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Early Morning Urgency
I've been awake since 2:30 this morning. It is Thursday, February 5, 2009. I was restless in my sleep and then I heard my name. No one was awake so I drifted off again. Then I heard a whistle, it was a "hey you" whistle. I jumped out of bed and checked on the kids. Everyone is asleep. I looked out the windows... everything is calm.
Why am I so troubled in spirit?
I began to pray and pray. I pray for the women in my Bible study. I pray for family and friends. I pray for everything I can think of. And yet the uneasiness grows in the pit of my stomach. I feel desperation, I feel sadness, I feel fear. I keep praying.
I check my emails, I check the news, I'm not given clarity on exactly what I'm supposed to be praying for, so I just pray.
It is almost 4:00 AM now. I still have no relief. I want to go to bed so I won't be exhausted in the morning (normal time), but I can't shake this nauseated feeling. Tears flow from my eyes, who am I interceding for?
Is it you? Are you the one who desperately needs to know that God is with you? Do you need to feel the comfort of the Good Shepherd? Who among you is hurting or in trouble with a feeling of no way out? Are you the one who is crying out for peace in your heart?
Well, I'm praying for you with a heavy heart. And even though I don't know who you are, God does and He cares.
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33
"The LORD gives strength to His people; the LORD blesses His people with peace." Psalm 29:11
"For the word of the LORD is right and true; He is faithful in all He does. The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of His unfailing love. By the word of the LORD were the heavens made, their starry host by the breath of His mouth. He gathers the waters of the sea into jars; He puts the deep into storehouses. Let all the earth fear the LORD; let all the people of the world revere Him. For He spoke, and it came to be; He commanded, and it stood firm. But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart through all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people He chose for His inheritance. From heaven the LORD looks down and sees all mankind; from His dwelling place He watches all who live on earth- He who forms the hearts of all, who considers everything they do. But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear Him, on those whose hope is in His unfailing love, to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine. We wait in hope for the LORD; He is our help and our shield. In Him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in His holy name.
May Your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in You."
Psalm 33:4-9, 11-15, 18-22
Why am I so troubled in spirit?
I began to pray and pray. I pray for the women in my Bible study. I pray for family and friends. I pray for everything I can think of. And yet the uneasiness grows in the pit of my stomach. I feel desperation, I feel sadness, I feel fear. I keep praying.
I check my emails, I check the news, I'm not given clarity on exactly what I'm supposed to be praying for, so I just pray.
It is almost 4:00 AM now. I still have no relief. I want to go to bed so I won't be exhausted in the morning (normal time), but I can't shake this nauseated feeling. Tears flow from my eyes, who am I interceding for?
Is it you? Are you the one who desperately needs to know that God is with you? Do you need to feel the comfort of the Good Shepherd? Who among you is hurting or in trouble with a feeling of no way out? Are you the one who is crying out for peace in your heart?
Well, I'm praying for you with a heavy heart. And even though I don't know who you are, God does and He cares.
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33
"The LORD gives strength to His people; the LORD blesses His people with peace." Psalm 29:11
"For the word of the LORD is right and true; He is faithful in all He does. The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of His unfailing love. By the word of the LORD were the heavens made, their starry host by the breath of His mouth. He gathers the waters of the sea into jars; He puts the deep into storehouses. Let all the earth fear the LORD; let all the people of the world revere Him. For He spoke, and it came to be; He commanded, and it stood firm. But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart through all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people He chose for His inheritance. From heaven the LORD looks down and sees all mankind; from His dwelling place He watches all who live on earth- He who forms the hearts of all, who considers everything they do. But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear Him, on those whose hope is in His unfailing love, to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine. We wait in hope for the LORD; He is our help and our shield. In Him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in His holy name.
May Your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in You."
Psalm 33:4-9, 11-15, 18-22
Monday, January 19, 2009
Fearing a Storm That Hasn't Come - Yet
Some of us today are in the midst of a storm in our lives. Some have just recently survived one, and some may feel as though they have not experienced a large scale storm or any storm for that matter. And there are those who have not had a storm for some time and think we are due. Sometimes when we hear of other people and the pain they are in we can let fear creep in and distract us. The enemy loves to take anything and make it a distraction. This is where I found myself last week. My thoughts were consumed with when and how the next storm would hit my life. I was asking myself if it would be me or maybe one of the members of my family that would be hurt. I started playing different tragic scenarios in my mind and dwelling on the “what if’s” of life. Then I realized I was gripped by fear, and I was very distracted. I got on my face before the Lord, confessed and asked for a word from Him. He answered me in my heart and I wrote it down. I want to share it in hopes that it will be an encouragement to your heart as it was to mine. Also I want to remind you that in the battle of your mind to take your thoughts captive.
Do not fear Me child, I love you.
I will only allow what is necessary to make you more like Me.
I love you so much I gave up My own Son.
You are safe with Me, no matter what happens in your life.
I am your strong tower.
I love your husband more than you do.
I love each one of your children more than you are even capable of loving them.
Remember child, I am love, but I also have a plan.
Trust Me and know that My plan is perfect and My grace is sufficient.
I will walk through it with you.
Remember child, I am the Masterpiece Maker.
I am highly skilled in the art of clay.
Be moldable in My loving yet strong hands.
Allow Me to do amazing things with and through you.
I have chosen you dear one.
Put your faith and trust in Me.
I do not make mistakes.
I neither slumber nor sleep.
My eye is on you and you are engraved in the palm of My hand.
Please don’t waste time.
Do what I’ve called you to do.
Never forget My love for you.
It is stamped on every cell of your body.
Do not fear Me child, I love you.
I will only allow what is necessary to make you more like Me.
I love you so much I gave up My own Son.
You are safe with Me, no matter what happens in your life.
I am your strong tower.
I love your husband more than you do.
I love each one of your children more than you are even capable of loving them.
Remember child, I am love, but I also have a plan.
Trust Me and know that My plan is perfect and My grace is sufficient.
I will walk through it with you.
Remember child, I am the Masterpiece Maker.
I am highly skilled in the art of clay.
Be moldable in My loving yet strong hands.
Allow Me to do amazing things with and through you.
I have chosen you dear one.
Put your faith and trust in Me.
I do not make mistakes.
I neither slumber nor sleep.
My eye is on you and you are engraved in the palm of My hand.
Please don’t waste time.
Do what I’ve called you to do.
Never forget My love for you.
It is stamped on every cell of your body.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Great Quotes on Prayer
I read these in the Daily Bread reading for today.
God wants us to come to Him with our complaints. If we march through life pretending to smile while inside we bleed, we dishonor the relationship. -- Philip Yancey
Give Him each perplexing problem,
All your needs to Him make known;
Bring to Him your daily burdens—
Never carry them alone! —Adams
The best thermometer of your spiritual temperature is the intensity of your prayer. —Spurgeon
God wants us to come to Him with our complaints. If we march through life pretending to smile while inside we bleed, we dishonor the relationship. -- Philip Yancey
Give Him each perplexing problem,
All your needs to Him make known;
Bring to Him your daily burdens—
Never carry them alone! —Adams
The best thermometer of your spiritual temperature is the intensity of your prayer. —Spurgeon
Monday, January 12, 2009
Mommy Pray For Me
"With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints," Ephesians 6:18
Today the snow hit us hard, but not until after the schools in our area already posted "normal" status. So, driving slowly and carefully I got Little Professor and Lover Boy to school. In my hustle and bustle state of mind, plus not wanting to spend any extra time outside in the elements, I sent my 7 year old into the building. I called out after him, "I will be in your classroom after I drop off your brother," (I volunteer on Mondays).
I dropped off Lover Boy (his first day back since before Christmas) which is only a few feet away, but seemed to take forever as we walked through the not yet plowed walkway. Then I went into Little Professor's class room and started sorting papers. He goes into a different class for the first part of the morning so I was quite surprised when he walked up to me with tears in his eyes. Very concerned, I asked what the matter was. He couldn't even speak and pointed angrily at me. I was the problem and I had no clue why. He had forgot to pick out his lunch so when he finished, before he went back, I asked him what I did. He said, "Mommy, you didn't pray for me!" trying his hardest to not cry out. I was crushed! Not only does he appreciate me praying for him every morning before school, but he desperately needs it. I sent my child to face his day without connecting him to the Heavenly Father and it truly affected him. I gave him a hug and prayed quickly for him. He smiled through his tears and said, "I will be okay now". Before I left he was back in his home room (there were a lot of papers today!). I waved to say goodbye, and he motioned for me to come to his desk. "Pray again for me Mommy", he said. I was glad too. I whispered a prayer in his ear and gave him a squeeze.
Prayer is so incredibly important! It puts us in contact with the Star Breather, our Creator God! With whom nothing is impossible!
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. " Ephesians 6:10-13
Today the snow hit us hard, but not until after the schools in our area already posted "normal" status. So, driving slowly and carefully I got Little Professor and Lover Boy to school. In my hustle and bustle state of mind, plus not wanting to spend any extra time outside in the elements, I sent my 7 year old into the building. I called out after him, "I will be in your classroom after I drop off your brother," (I volunteer on Mondays).
I dropped off Lover Boy (his first day back since before Christmas) which is only a few feet away, but seemed to take forever as we walked through the not yet plowed walkway. Then I went into Little Professor's class room and started sorting papers. He goes into a different class for the first part of the morning so I was quite surprised when he walked up to me with tears in his eyes. Very concerned, I asked what the matter was. He couldn't even speak and pointed angrily at me. I was the problem and I had no clue why. He had forgot to pick out his lunch so when he finished, before he went back, I asked him what I did. He said, "Mommy, you didn't pray for me!" trying his hardest to not cry out. I was crushed! Not only does he appreciate me praying for him every morning before school, but he desperately needs it. I sent my child to face his day without connecting him to the Heavenly Father and it truly affected him. I gave him a hug and prayed quickly for him. He smiled through his tears and said, "I will be okay now". Before I left he was back in his home room (there were a lot of papers today!). I waved to say goodbye, and he motioned for me to come to his desk. "Pray again for me Mommy", he said. I was glad too. I whispered a prayer in his ear and gave him a squeeze.
Prayer is so incredibly important! It puts us in contact with the Star Breather, our Creator God! With whom nothing is impossible!
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. " Ephesians 6:10-13
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Broken Hearted
Psalm 147:3 He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
After all the kids were in bed and asleep (or so I thought), I heard crying so I went in their room to see who it was. Little Professor was the one crying. When I asked him what the matter was, he said he was missing Tata. He had been remembering and thinking about the funeral.
How does one comfort a seven year old? Somehow telling him his Great Grandfather is with Jesus just doesn't seem to do it.
I told him, it was okay to be sad. And as I cried with him, I told him about the verses in psalms where God says he heals the brokenhearted. We prayed together, and then we prayed for Grandma and all of her sons and daughters who miss Tata also.
We talked about emotions and how we were created by God to express them. Then we talked about what Tata might be doing right now with Jesus.
Little Professor said he knew he was very lucky to have known his Great Grandfather, especially since he fought in WWII. Then the topic turned to war and we talked about as many wars in the Bible that we could think of. We said goodnight and even though he was sad, I really believe he went to sleep knowing that his God is in control.
I'm still sad, even three hours later.
My tears fall freely because, after all, I miss my Grandpa too!
Psalm 34:18 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Fresh Start
Happy New Year!
I just love January 1st. I get to leave behind the year before with all it's unfulfilled goals and dreams and start fresh. It is encouraging to me to be able to start over.
I've already been thinking about how I'm going to better myself this year. I have lists and goals swimming around in my head for 2009. I even have goals for my kids.
One thing I love to do is review my journal to see what God did last year. This always opens my eyes to what a personal God He really is. I think I will get to that right away!
1 But now, thus says the LORD, your Creator,… He who formed you
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine!
3 For I am the LORD your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior
5 Do not fear, for I am with you;
7 Everyone who is called by My name, and whom I have created for My glory, whom I have formed, even whom I have made.”
10 "You are My witnesses," declares the LORD, "and My servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe Me and understand that I am He. Before Me there was no God formed, and there will be none after Me. 11 I, even I, am the LORD, and there is no savior besides Me. 18 Do not call to mind the former things, or ponder things of the past. 19 Behold, I will do something new, now it will spring forth; will you not be aware of it? I will even make a roadway in the wilderness, rivers in the desert. 21 The people whom I formed for Myself will declare My praise.
25 I, even I, am the one who wipes out your transgressions for My own sake, and I will not remember your sins.”
Isaiah 43:1,3,5,7,10,11,18,19,21,25
I just love January 1st. I get to leave behind the year before with all it's unfulfilled goals and dreams and start fresh. It is encouraging to me to be able to start over.
I've already been thinking about how I'm going to better myself this year. I have lists and goals swimming around in my head for 2009. I even have goals for my kids.
One thing I love to do is review my journal to see what God did last year. This always opens my eyes to what a personal God He really is. I think I will get to that right away!
1 But now, thus says the LORD, your Creator,… He who formed you
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine!
3 For I am the LORD your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior
5 Do not fear, for I am with you;
7 Everyone who is called by My name, and whom I have created for My glory, whom I have formed, even whom I have made.”
10 "You are My witnesses," declares the LORD, "and My servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe Me and understand that I am He. Before Me there was no God formed, and there will be none after Me. 11 I, even I, am the LORD, and there is no savior besides Me. 18 Do not call to mind the former things, or ponder things of the past. 19 Behold, I will do something new, now it will spring forth; will you not be aware of it? I will even make a roadway in the wilderness, rivers in the desert. 21 The people whom I formed for Myself will declare My praise.
25 I, even I, am the one who wipes out your transgressions for My own sake, and I will not remember your sins.”
Isaiah 43:1,3,5,7,10,11,18,19,21,25
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