Farming On Faith

What Happens When We Rejoice?

2012-01-27T08:46:00.001-06:00

A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance:

but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

Proverbs 15:13

King James Version (KJV)

A Scientist who studied the effects of humor on the human body reported laughter stimulates the brain to produce the alertness hormone called catecholamine. It means it contains epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine. When these substances are released in the body it stimulates the release of endorphins which are the body's natural painkillers. As they drop so does our perception of pain. SO why the science lesson today? Simply put laughter causes the body to produce its own painkillers.

Grandma Carol with Alex and Jacob enjoying herself a bit too much.

I think it is really neat when scientist prove what God told us from the beginning of time. God prescribed a joyful heart as good medicine~ and scientist confirm that our body's natural painkillers are released when we laugh.

The command to rejoice in weaved through the entire Bible. It takes on a new meaning when we stop to consider what happens physiologically when we do rejoice.

Sometimes life has a way of knocking us down so hard it is just plain hard to get back up again. But we must dust ourselves off and get back up again. God means for us to experience joy and we find our joy in Him.

In the recent months after the death of my father ~ several hard issues hit at once and I lost my wind. After taking about a month of resting in my Saviour I am once again rejoicing. Grieving so many loses at one time had robbed me of my joy.

If you have lost your joy today know that God knows and sees all things and He loves you. King David had lost his joy once too~lest we get down on ourselves. We can do just what he did~ this prayer was mine and can be yours!

Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.

Psalms 51:12

Our salvation is in Jesus and through Him we will one day be taken to everlasting eternity with the God of this entire universe. Now that is reason to rejoice today on this Fabulous Friday. But ~ before we get to lay down this earthy robe we must live our days on this earth. I want to live them in joy and in good health.

So how about it today~ why not have yourself a good laugh?

The remaining Shindorfs

Hannah and Jacob

Alex and Ashley

Little Boston

Jessica and her family~ missed the photo booth at Grandmas.

My kids~

Rejoicing~

Happy Thursday~ Blog Friends

2012-01-26T08:47:00.003-06:00

Click picture to join~

I am seeing... the sun coming up through the fog. It is going to be a warm day here at Farming On Faith. I am enjoying the majesty of the sun. SO thankful for a spring day in the middle of winter.

The chickens will be at their height in glory~ they will get to sunbathe for sure today.

I am hearing... Be still my soul ~ HE IS!

I am smelling... cinnamon bread.

I tasted... that cinnamon bread and a yummy grapefruit. I lost a pound and a half this week. Steady and slow wins the race. I am so determined! I know I can~ I know I can!

I am feeling... the need for God's help! We got some really terrible news last night from someone very special to us. Just left a really bad taste in my mouth for today. Please pray an unspoken prayer for her. Sin ~ kills and destroys. But there is hope in Christ.

Once again I turn and lay it at the feet of Jesus and rest in Him.

“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord,

and he shall lift you up.”

James 4:10 KJV

I pray you have a prosperous day~

Smiling~

2012-01-25T08:39:00.000-06:00

Psalm 5:11

King James Version (KJV)

But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice:
let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them:
let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.

It is important to know that whatever it is that threatens to crush your spirit~ and rob your joy today will not necessary be here tomorrow, next week or even next year. Life goes on~circumstances change. The sun will come up tomorrow.

This reminder is enough to bring a respite to the soul. From here perhaps a glimmer of light can peek through the darkness. We must never forget that God in His sovereign love and power~ holds our lives in His hands and works according to His will.

My security~ my hope~ my peace and my joy come from knowing that this true. God expects my participation in how that I perceive the events in my life. I decide if I am going to view my experiences in a positive or a negative lens.

If I choose to look at life through those negative glasses then my life will feel out of whack. I have a choice and so do you. I don't have to be down hearted ~ and sad when the sky appears dark. I have the option to smile ~chuckle~laugh~and look for joy in the dark places.

Today I am smiling~ I pray you are too!

Have a good and Godly day :)

Oh No The Ants Have Invaded ~ Picnik Is Closing!!!!

2012-01-24T21:09:00.001-06:00

Help~
I am down hearted and distraught. For the past three years I have used Picnik to make my headers, add text to photos and edit for my blog. I just discovered it is closing down in April. Do you have any photo editing sites online that you use and like? Please share ~it sure will make my day.

The Accidental Bride~ Book Review

2012-01-24T20:13:00.000-06:00

I seem to have brides on my mind lately~ I don't know why. This was such a fun book. I read it last weekend and stayed up until the wee hours of the morning Sunday night until I found out just how it was going to end.

Shay Bradenberger is raising her daughter in Moose Creek, Montana on the ranch where she grew up. She does not have enough energy, time or money to keep things running and she is quickly going under. Bad luck just seems to follow her.The bank is getting ready to take her ranch. She is praying for a miracle.

It has many twist and turns and I could not figure out just what was going to happen next. She ends up at the Founder's Day wedding reenactment playing the bride to none other than her high school sweetheart who left her high and dry at the alter on their wedding.

You just have to read it to see what happens next. This book had me from the first line. I give this book a 5 star rating. It just seems to put a smile on your face.

This book was provided to me by Band B Media in exchange for my honest review.

An interview with Denise Hunter ~ the author of The Accidental Bride.

Author Denise Hunter explores the flaw in seeking favor with others

Do the opinions of those around us really matter? Should we live our lives based on what others might think? In her latest release,The Accidental Bride (Thomas Nelson), award-winning author Denise Hunter explores these questions as she deftly leads her readers to discover the One whose favor should always be sought. Skillfully creating a love story that beautifully reflects God’s grace, Hunter uses the pages of The Accidental Bride to bring to light preoccupation with caring what others think. Using complex characters, an enticing backdrop and an almost palpable range of emotion and conflict, Hunter draws her readers to a new awareness of how much more simple life becomes when we aim to please God instead of man.

The Accidental Bride

Denise Hunter

Thomas Nelson/January 3, 2012

ISBN 978-1-59554-802-3

304 pages/trade paper/$15.99

www.ThomasNelson.com

www.DeniseHunterbooks.com

In the interview below, Denise Hunter shares more about her latest release.

Q: In The Accidental Bride, your main character, Shay is continually concerned with what others might think. Worrying about the opinions of others is a common malady in today’s society. What made you decide to write about it?

As you say, it’s so common to be worried about what others think of us. I love that quote by Eleanor Roosevelt, “You wouldn't worry so much about what others think of you if you realized how seldom they do.” So true! Shay needed to realize that it’s God’s opinion that really matters. When we focus on pleasing people, we tend to make poor decisions.

Q: This isn’t your first novel based on the cowboy lifestyle. What drew you to this particular lifestyle as the backdrop for your writing?

I’m drawn to the rugged appeal of the cowboy lifestyle. Even though I live in a city, I’m a country girl at heart, and I especially love the mountains; that’s why I was drawn to Montana for this series. There’s something simple and beautiful about living off the land that I think appeals to readers right now. Things are tough for so many people—and though the cowboy lifestyle is a hard one—it’s also very organic, a back to our roots kind of thing.

Q: The premise of The Accidental Bride is both interesting and unique. What inspired your decision to involve your hero and heroine in an “accidental” marriage?

I was watching a TV movie in which the actors were getting married, and I wondered, “What if the actor playing the preacher was an ordained minister? Would the couple be legally married?” Turns out, it’s not quite that simple to become accidentally married. There’s the matter of a marriage license that the pastor has to sign and mail to the proper government agency. So the good news is, it’s not likely to happen to you or anyone you know. But it sure was fun instigating such an event in a novel!

Q: Before she could forgive him, Travis had to rebuild Shay’s trust. Is this a necessary step, or do you believe we should forgive even those who may never be trustworthy again?

Trust and forgiveness are two different things. Forgiveness is something God commands us to do—regardless of circumstances like whether or not the offender is apologetic or has changed, etc.

Trust is different; it’s earned. And unfortunately, it takes a long time to build trust and only one bad decision to wreck it. We forgive the offender, but if he or she doesn’t change, we aren’t required to trust the person again. It’s the offender’s responsibility—if he or she wants to be trusted again—to earn back that trust.

Q: As an award-winning romance novelist you are, no-doubt, a role model for many would-be writers. What advice would you give to those who dream of one day being published? What’s an absolute must for a great romance?

First of all, I recommend aspiring writers to study and practice. Writing is a craft to be honed, and no matter how much natural talent you have, it takes both of those things to become a good writer.
Also, write the book you want to read. If you want to read that kind of book, there will be others who want to read it too.
Study the market, not so that you can jump on every trend, but so that you know how your story fits into the market.
Join a writers group so you can meet other writers—iron sharpens iron.
Once you have a marketable manuscript, go to conferences. The American Christian Writers Conference is the best out there in my opinion (www.acfw.com). At conferences, you will learn from some of the best in the industry and get a chance to pitch your work to agents and editors.
E-publishing is becoming huge, but don’t put a sub-par manuscript out there where it will only flounder. Hone the craft, write the best story you can, and learn to re-write. Then hire an editor. Every published author has one for a reason!
Getting published can be a long, uphill climb, but persistence pays off.

1 Peter Bible Study~ Week Three

2012-01-24T20:12:00.001-06:00

Rejoice That You Rock~

In this week's study in 1 Peter we see that no matter what others may tell us or what we may have believed we are living stones in Christ that are connected to The Living Stone. That is really amazing. Just as I wrote about in my devotion this morning we all come with some baggage.

I have been a stay at home mom~ homeschooling my children for 21 years. At times I felt unimportant. I mean cleaning toilets, doing dishes and covering our kitchen table with school books seemed unimportant many days. It sure did not bring home a pay check. Yet~ I knew this was my ministry that God had called me to do. This ministry is coming to an end very quickly and I can honestly say I would not have missed it for the world. Bittersweet! I am now convinced that God will have a new ministry and a new calling for my life. I am excited to see what he has in store for the next chapter.

In Christ ~ I am a daughter of the King. It says I am a royal priest, a chosen one, part of a holy nation, and a living stone in God's wonderful spiritual house.

Peter addresses this letter to all the New Testament ~ so that includes little ol' me.
We have direct access to God. I am chosen~ set apart and created for His purpose. Now that is something to celebrate.

Through this study I am reminded that my past no longer has power over me. And neither does yours. In Christ I can overcome.

1 Peter 2:4-10

King James Version (KJV)

⁴To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious,
⁵Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
⁶Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.
⁷Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,
⁸And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.
⁹But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light;
¹⁰Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.

Speaking From My Heart Today~

2012-01-24T09:07:00.000-06:00

Psalm 71:20

King James Version (KJV)

²⁰Thou, which hast shewed me great and sore troubles, shalt quicken me again, and shalt bring me up again from the depths of the earth.

Every family has both beauty ~ and unfortunately baggage. Think about what blessings or curses your lineage passed down to you. What family troubles have you seen?

Last night at our monthly Ladies' Meeting~ my old Pastor's wife spoke. (She was my Pastor's wife for 38 years~what a blessing.) She spoke on Woman Power~ the first lady~ Eve. Eve did not know by taking things into her own hands~ influencing her husband~ that she would see her first born son murdered. She lost both her sons ~one to death~ the other had to flee for his life~never to return. We never see where she laid her eyes on him again. What a broken heart the first mother must have had. She lost so much and so have we. Even the first family had baggage.

My own family has been the same. I was a child of a messy divorce. I am a child of an alcoholic and addict. Yet I am the beneficiary ~ of a family whom met Jesus ~ and He has performed miracles of restoration. Beyond what I can type upon this page.
On my mother's side~in their brokenness~ they saw the need to place their trust in Jesus. Upon my father's side many struggled with addiction~ some placed their trust in Jesus but all faced an early grave. Needless to say I love them all dearly. They were/are human but they are my family.

We spend the first part of our lives struggling to deal with our negative heritage~ and now in the second half of life~ I see we spend the rest of our life trying to undo the things we enacted as a response to who we are and where we came from.

When we choose to live in a state of regret and unforgiveness for those who have done these things to us but that is not living the "abundant" life. I wish I could take back some of the things I spouted off to my parents and my parents-in-law. In my arrogance of thinking I had it all figured out I crushed them so many times with my prideful words. "I would do this game of life much better." Each time I am reminded of a foolish statement ~ I apologize again. God forgive me!

Unfinished business at the end of our lives will be passed along to those that follow behind us. That is history repeating itself~ as my grandma so wisely stated a million and one times.

In the Old Testament~ we read that families could be "cursed" generation after generation for doing evil and lacking favor with God. May we never forget that God is the same yesterday~today~ and forever. Yet~ it took only one person to break a family curse and start living anew with God's blessing. On- the- other hand it only took one to come along and lose favor with God to influence others for evil. I see the heartache and horror that the demon in the bottle can bring to a family~ therefore ~ I choose not to take a drink. Who is to say that we can trust all that follow behind to be able to stop at one drink? Why gamble on such a foolish thing?~ I don't want to be a reason for any to stumble over me.

In 2 Kings 23:37~ we read of a man who "did evil in the eyes of the Lord, just as his father had done." Alternately ~ we also see a man who" did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and followed completely the ways of his father, not turning to the right or the left" ( 2 Kings 2:22) The result were not the same~ I challenge you to study it.

I am thankful that according to Scriptures ~ when we receive Christ as our Saviour ~ we are born into a new family~ God's family. It is clear that we are captives to our linage here~ but we can be "agents of change." I say that very humbly~ only with Christ working through us can true change unfold.

My father died last Autumn. There were no unspoken words between us. My father had received Christ as his Saviour but could never overcome his addiction. This will forever break my heart. Because of the nightmare I seen played out before my eyes as a child I ran to Jesus and He picked me up and set my feet on a solid rock. My dad said to me every time we had a serious talk, "Carrie Sue~ you have it figured out. You are going the right way." I would explain that I had nothing figured out just that if I walked as close to Jesus as I could ~He would walk with me as close as He could. I decided early that I would follow Jesus.

Where I came from ~ I can't change and to be honest with you ~ I don't want to. I love my parents and know they did the very best they could. I would not trade them for anything~ nor would I change who I am and where I came from. God does not make mistakes! Praise God for grace~ we all are going to need much grace before they place us in that wooden box.

But where I am going is up to me. I can choose to focus on the problems from my past or the consequences of those that have come before me ~ but I choose to set my own path straight~ to do more than that. I choose to understand and forgive the sins of my "fathers." I have made peace with them and that brings the greatest peace of all. One day I pray that my children will do the same for me too! You see we try our very best to do the best we can with what we have to do.

I can choose to seek God in all that I do and ask HIs blessings upon my life ~ on my children's lives~ and all that will come after me.

Lord~
Life is but a vapor and soon it will be over~ help me to understand the people who came before me~ and who I am today as a result. I choose to let go of the things which hold me back~ and search for the beauty in my family inheritance. Thank you for my parents and all they have taught me. Thank you for making me~ me. Please use me to be a blessing in the lives of my family tree.
In Jesus' Name~ Amen

Hannah's Wedding Plans~

2012-01-23T22:09:00.000-06:00

Today my Hannah and I went to the Wyeth-Tootle mansion to draw out floor plans for her wedding. I remember touring this museum when I was a school girl. Back then it seemed huge. As we went from room to room figuring out where the cake table should go~ how the food will be displayed~ where we wanted to decorate and what we still needed to do~ I couldn't help but remember all the field trip tours. In the end we decided the historical building stands on its own~not much decorating will need to be done.

Caleb toured the entire museum and was impressed. The guest will be able to tour the entire three floors which actually contain some of Jesse James' belongings. It even has a children's room for the smaller guest.

It was fun planning out her special day. Bittersweet~ how in the world has time slipped away so fast. In my heart I still feel like that little girl viewing the building through my childhood eyes~ and now I am marrying my baby daughter. I am so excited for her and Jacob but I am sure going to miss my gypsy girl. She truly has been a ball of sunshine in our home all these years.

I have been asked to share wedding details and I will after the wedding. It will be a small wedding with immediate family only. The reception will also be here at the mansion which will be a catered dinner of roast beef. I am seeing yellow in my sleep but that is pretty okay since it is my favorite color. The building is very historical and vintage. My Hannah has chosen all the things I truly love~ imagine that!

Here is the link to visit the history of the Wyeth~Tootle mansion. Hope you enjoy your visit~ click here.

Happy Beautiful Monday~

2012-01-23T08:58:00.000-06:00

Ecclesiastes 3:11

King James Version (KJV)

¹¹He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.

Nineteenth century theologian Charles Finney said, "A state of mind that sees God in everything is evidence of growth in grace and a thankful heart."

Wow~ what a challenge for each and every day.

Are you like me? Do you acknowledge that God is truly in everything but struggle to see God's hand in everything that is happening right now, in your so daily life?

What are you dealing with in life today that you don't really remember signing up for?

Life's harsh realities that intrude our lives can make it hard to recognize the fact that our God is always present.

I am so thankful for the times when on this spiritual journey God makes it very evident that He has been faithful at cultivating my heart. During those times when things don't go as planned yet I see that God is still in control in everything that is happening in my life. Now that is a reason to celebrate.

Often we see God's working is in the little things~ that is grace~ that is a gift. On this Monday morning~ let's choose to see God in everything with a thankful heart.

Happy Lord's Day~

2012-01-22T07:44:00.002-06:00

Psalm 23:6

(KJV)

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:

and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

Happy Lord's Day~

We are warming up here today at Farming on Faith~ woo hoo!

I am excited to hear from the Lord this morning. The roast is in the crockpot and I am heading off to church. It has been a good week~ God has been good ~ God has been faithful~ God has answered prayers.

I had the best time celebrating with our Keaton and Josilyn~so much fun.

Here is our gypsy girl and her guy~ we still working on wedding plans.

It is getting closer.

I am going to miss this girl~

Mornings With Jesus 2012~ Book Giveaway!!!!

2012-01-21T13:30:00.001-06:00

I absolutely love this devotion book for 2012! Did you know it was a leap year~ sure you did? I will be giving away a copy of this devotion book to one lucky person. It will bless your socks off.

I am keeping it simple this year. All you have to do is leave me a comment on this post to be entered ~telling me what you are thankful for today. You can also email me ~ carrieshindorf@yahoo.com if you do not have a blogger account. That means all you local followers can enter too! I will be ending this giveaway on February 15 th when I post my review. Hurry and sign up~ I am looking forward to hearing what you are thankful for today.

Oh~ I Am Just SO....Excited!

2012-01-19T09:01:00.001-06:00

Tonight two of my grandbabies are coming. It is their birthday month and we are celebrating. I will share sweet pictures tomorrow. This is Keaton's cake and Josilyn's is still a work in progress. I am at my height in Grandma glory.

Hannah made homemade fondant flowers to decorate Josilyn's cake~ I will show the finished project later. I will post her homemade fondant recipe too~it is here on my blog somewhere but it taste much better than the store bought and is so inexpensive to make. (Just a little sticky!)

There is much to do~ so I best be off and running~ have a blessed day!

***********************************

Do You Need Some "Eagle" Thinking Today?

Isaiah 40:31

King James Version (KJV)

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

During storms the eagles love to come out and brave the elements~ not like little birds who run for cover. Life is stormy~ the older you get the more storms you witness. Girlfriend~ is that not the truth?

I hear my Grandma's sayings more and more being whispered in my ears from memories of days gone by. Never have they made more sense than they do today. Guess it is because I am now a Grandma. (that still shocks me!)

We have two choices when life gets stormy. We can run for cover or we can mount up like eagles and brave the storm.

Can we just think here for a minute? Eagle mentality works because it does what God created it to do. It operates in confidence in it's God-provided skills. It waits upon the Lord. Being patient they trust God's timing in adversities.

Lately I have had several huge storms hit one after another. I mean knock me down flat on my face kind of trials~like never before. My wind has been knocked out of me and I needed a time of resting and maybe even solitude. All the while I have been praying~ fasting and spending time up in my Lord's lap. I have cried more tears in the past couple of months than I have cried in my entire lifetime. God has placed me in a position where I can do nothing but rest in Him. And resting in Him is just what I have been doing for about a month.

After some much needed rest~ pampering from my great husband and much time in prayer and my Bible reading I feel like I can once again mount up like an eagle. Are you discouraged today? Are you facing a trial? Are you weary and worn? If so ~ let me tell you to rest in Jesus.

But there comes a time when we have to get moving again~ we must mount up like an eagle. I don't want to take cover like a little finch every time the sky turns black. No~ thank you.

I have lived in tornado alley all my life and I have never been afraid of storms. I refuse to be afraid of life's storms either. The big ~bad ~mean storms in our lives do not take God by surprise. God can and will help us mount up. So today let's get those running shoes on and mount up to face whatever may come our way.

Wednesday Weigh In~ And A Little Encouragement!

2012-01-18T06:37:00.001-06:00

Hannah has chosen these flowers which bloom early April for her centerpieces~ love them!

1 Corinthians 3:16-17

King James Version (KJV)

¹⁶Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?
¹⁷If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.

Wednesday mornings are my weigh in at Weight Watchers. I have decided this year to take better care of me. I have always tried to look nice and feed my family healthy but this year I am making some major changes.

I have made up my mind to take off every extra pound that this body of mine doesn't need or want! Why? Well I have my daughter's wedding coming up and I want to feel better.

Paul was speaking these words in our passage above to the church of Corinth~ but they speak well to us too. We live in a body-conscious world with diets, exercise clubs and beauty magazines galore. To be honest I have never much cared about pleasing or keeping the attention of anyone but one~ My Brian.

But I do want to feel good and healthy. However ~ as a Christian I have another goal. We are literally the temple of God. The Holy Spirit dwells in us~ it is His household.

The Old Testament Temple was built with great care and massive expense. Gold, silver, bronze, iron, onyx and precious stones were used in abundance. Why? Because God dwelled there~it was His house. It was the best for the King of Kings, and rightfully so.

He also lives in us.

John 14:23

King James Version (KJV)

²³Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.

John 14:16

King James Version (KJV)

¹⁶And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;

Think of it: God lives in you and me. I don't know about you but this convicts me. I want to be more careful where I go, what I do and what I think. Just as David made careful plans for the temple I need to tenderly care for the vessel I am for the Holy Spirit. So this morning I am repenting where I need to and moving on. Hopefully it shows on the scale. Woo-hoo! I think I can ~ I think I can ~ I think I can!

Take care of your body. It's the only place you have to live.

– Jim Rohn

Your body is a temple, but only if you treat it as one.

– Astrid Alauda

When I Am Weeping ~ He Weeps With Me

2012-01-17T06:00:00.003-06:00

John 11:35 (KJV)

Jesus wept.

This is the shortest verse in the Bible but it carries an indepth message. I think about it a bit different these days. Last Fall when my brother called with the news that my father had been found in his front yard and he was gone I wept like I have never wept. In fact~ I cried for weeks. My tears would not stop falling and still today they will start out of the blue as I grieve the reality that my Dad is gone. I can't call him ~ hug him ~ tell him I love him or that I need him.

In this passage Lazarus had died and his sisters were distraught. Lazarus was not old~it seemed he was gone all the sudden and way too soon. I get that~ my dad was only 63! I am sure many of you do too! Lazarus' sisters had questions. Why did Jesus not come earlier? He could have healed him if He would have been there~ Did He not care?

When Jesus finally arrives ~ Lazarus had been in the grave for four days. When Martha heard that their close friend ~Jesus was coming~ she ran to meet Him. She wanted answers. Last time Jesus had visited Martha grabbed her apron and headed for the kitchen. I get Martha. I am more like Martha than Mary. We are kindred sisters at heart. Knowing Martha personally he gives her an answer~ He said, "Your brother will rise again."

Mary on the other hand is the tenderhearted sister. She was the one sitting at Jesus' feet the last time He visited. She asked the same questions as Martha but she was weeping~ her heart was broken in tiny pieces. I now understand Mary a bit more here of late. Jesus sees her crying and He is so moved by her grief that He weeps with her.

Two women with two different personalities ~yet a Lord who understands them and loves them both for who they were.

Sometimes I am like Martha. I want answers for the pain and the hurt that is breaking my heart. I want to do something~ fix it or at least I can bake a pie. Through reading the Word and praying I find answers~peace ~hope and comfort. Jesus never lays out the complete picture for me but He does reassure me that He has it all under control.

Yet ~ sometimes I am like Mary. My heart and soul are so broken that I don't need answers I just need to crawl up in His lap and weep. Just like Jesus asked Mary to come to Him ~He wants me to come to Him and in coming to Him I don't have to be ashamed of my tears. In fact my heart has a special healing just in knowing He weeps along with me.

Respond Like A Bone -Dry Babe ~ 1 Peter Bible Study

2012-01-16T19:47:00.000-06:00

Text 1 Peter 1:13-2:3

In this lesson we are asked to study how God wants us to behave. Because of what God has done for us~ we are called to live for Him. Remembering that we are unable to do this in our own strength. God always makes a way for us to do this by giving us grace.

What God has done in us and through us far precedes what we are called to do for Him.

Peter emphasizes the mind, discipline, holiness and love. He encourages us to strengthen our minds. This passage is not difficult to understand but it is difficult to live. I have been walking with Jesus for many years and these heart attitudes are a result of the fruits of the Spirit and not the result of our self-efforts. Some days I do well~ some days not so. But I do try to walk more in the Spirit than in my flesh. When I walk in the Spirit it shows and when Carrie walks in her flesh it is not such a pretty sight!

Sometimes holiness echos perfection ~of which none of us are able to achieve. Yet ~ we are called to holiness. We are on a journey to holiness that will not be completed until we are in the presence of our Heavenly Father. One day we will all stand before the God who is judge~ according to our works. Even though we are saved by grace we will stand at the bema seat.

Peter encourages us to desire the Word of God as a new born baby desires his mother's milk. If that child is not fed he will not grow.

In reading this passage and studying along I am reminded that God loves me~ when I am good and even when I am bad. He is good and He is in control of all that happens in my life. I am so very thankful for my salvation ~ I am humbled that I get to serve the Almighty God with my humble attempts.

1 Peter 1:13-2:3

King James Version (KJV)

¹³Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

¹⁴As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:

¹⁵But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;

¹⁶Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

¹⁷And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:

¹⁸Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;

¹⁹But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:

²⁰Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,

²¹Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.

²²Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:

²³Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

²⁴For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:

²⁵But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.

1 Peter 2

Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings,

²As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:

³If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.

Good Morning Bloggy Friends~ I Have Missed You!

2012-01-16T10:06:00.002-06:00

Click Picture to take part!

The Simple Woman's Daybook~

FOR TODAY

Outside my window... It is Spring here ~ no kidding. If ever there were a Winter ( I am one who likes Winter) that I would wish would be Spring ~it is this year.

I just went out to let my chickens out and even the grass is peeking through with little blades of green. My Brian says we will pay for it and stand the chance of our fruit trees blooming too early and freezing. Oh I hope not~ my grapes are finally coming along. But for today I am so thankful for the Spring weather in the month of January. We have only had a handful of cold days this entire Winter.

Sort of makes me want to skip right into Spring!

I am thinking... about a couple special birthdays this week at Grandma Carrie' s house. Thinking and planning~ the wheels are turning. Mmmm~ I smell cake and ice cream!!

I am thankful... for a four day weekend with My Brian. We have worked and enjoyed being together. The basement bath and bedroom have all the dry wall up. I am starting to get visions of the completed project!

In the kitchen... I am going to make a weight watcher breakfast~well more like brunch. I have a new love in life ~they are Cuties ~which are mandarin oranges. Have you tried these cute little pieces of goodness? And they are zero points ~which makes them even better.

I am wearing... still in my jammies but getting ready to move. Looking forward to a day of working and fun with my guy.

I am creating... wedding centerpieces.

I am going... to get lesson plans for art classes completed. I have 40 art students~ it is going to be a blast.

I am wondering... how can we pay for not having Winter? Florida and Texas don't! Brian says God knows what He is doing. ?????

I am reading... my devotion.

I am hoping... I lost more than 2 pounds this week. However if I stay at a steady 2 pounds a week I will reach my goal by March. :)

I am looking forward to... a quiet week! My schedule is blank this week~which rarely ever happens. I hope to get a lot done at home.

I am learning....... to live with Change~ have I ever told you I hate change? But I am going to get good at it! I think I can~ I think I can.

Around the house... work~ laughter~ and making memories. My Caleb and his Dad are arguing on a fair price per hour for the drywall project. I think I hear $3.00 an hour with a good attitude or $0.00 with a bad attitude as the going rate! They are like hearing the same voice. They think just alike!

I am pondering... all my blessings. I am so very blessed!

A favorite quote for today... "Many hands make for make for light work."

One of my favorite things... a day with my love~ which always includes work! LOL
All jokes aside I am so blessed with a hard working man!

A few plans for the rest of the week: Wedding ~ schooling ~ Keaton and Josilyn ~ more dry wall!

A peek into my day... I am sure you have that figured out by now. I best get moving. Have a wonderful day!

This was no easy task to unload~ let me tell you!

I am hoping I see it at weigh in this week!

This area will be a kitchen area with a kitchen bar and a huge long

Amish table to sit all my grandbabies~ teehee!

This is the guest bathroom.

This will be a guest bedroom.

I will have a place where company can have their own little apartment~

Or I can have gatherings.

“This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” Galatians 5:16 KJV

Blessings~

Diary Of Five~

2012-01-12T18:57:00.001-06:00

I am seeing... Winter! Winter has finally arrived here at Farming on Faith. The snow has swirled in the air today. Sami has been brought inside ~ she just does not do well outside when it gets cold. The other chickens don't cuddle with her so she is left to fend for herself. She has been kenneled for tonight in the basement.

I am hearing.... my family enjoying a lazy evening. I am ready to cuddle up in front of a warm fire.

I am smelling... pizza bread.

I am thinking~ yellow. The wedding plans are in full swing. I just love yellow. The cake has been ordered. Hannah loves these flowers~they are called Craspedia Billy Balls.

I am feeling... tired. Tomorrow we will begin sheet rocking to finish our basement. SO I best get a little sleep. Hope you have a warm and cozy evening!

I have a brand new devotional ~365 Mornings With Jesus for 2012~ I will be reviewing next week and the publishers have given me an extra copy to give away~ stay tuned. It is a good one. I have already been enjoying mine!

Snow Pancakes~ REALLY!!

2012-01-12T18:16:00.000-06:00

They are wonderful~ so light and fluffy! It really works.

SNOW PANCAKES

2 cups of flour

1-tablespoon baking powder

½ teaspoon of salt

1 tablespoon white sugar

2 eggs well beaten

1-½ cups of milk

In a large bowel mix and sift the flour, baking powder, salt and sugar together.

Combine the eggs and milk in another bowl.

Slowly add the milk and egg mixture to the dry ingredients.

Stir well and set aside. The batter will be thick.

Next grease your griddle and get it good and hot.

When the griddle is hot, quickly go outdoors and scoop up fresh snow.

Fold in 1-½ cups of new snow and mix well.

Cook the pancakes as usual.

Tips For Snow Pancakes

Old snow won’t do.

Use only fresh, light and newly fallen immaculate snow. Small amounts of naturally occurring ammonia in fresh snow acts as a leaving agent and causes the pancakes to rise.

Ammonia in new snow will evaporate very soon after it has fallen.

We Have A Winner ~ The Keeper

2012-01-12T06:00:00.004-06:00

Like Momma Walton~ I will always be a Baptist girl~ but I love the Amish way of life. I love their quiet simple~ respectful ways. So every chance I get I go spend the day with them. They inspire me to live a more simple life. When I can't go visit them~ I love to read a good Amish book.

Suzanne is one of my favorite Authors~ and I know you will be reading Suzanne. I want you to know I am praying for you during your loss. Only God can dry the tears as I understand your grief with the recent loss of my own Father.

Just when I think Suzanne can't outdo herself she amazes me once again! The story of The Keeper takes place on the Windmill Farm~ with a young Amish girl by the name of Julia Lapp. This Amish farm looks a bit rough around the edges unlike most well kept Amish farms. Julia's very young father~ has taken ill and his heart is causing him to slip away quickly.

Still she longs for a future with her childhood sweetheart (Paul) only the Beekeeper comes along and talks Paul out of settling down so young. After all there is so much of life to see~ and so much to do. Marriage can wait. Julia blames the Beekeeper and wishes he would go away.

Can Julia have the future she has in mind or does God have something different in store for her life?

Great book~ I give it 5 stars.*****

Thank you Suzanne and Litfuse for the opportunity to review this book in exchange for my honest review.

*********************************************

About the book:

Julia Lapp has planned on marrying Paul Fisher since she was a girl. Now twenty-one, she looks forward to their wedding with giddy anticipation. When Paul tells her he wants to postpone the wedding--again--she knows who is to blame. Perpetual bachelor and spreader of cold feet, Roman Troyer, the Bee Man.

Roamin' Roman travels through the Amish communities of Ohio and Pennsylvania with his hives full of bees, renting them out to farmers in need of pollinators. He relishes his nomadic life, which keeps him from thinking about all he has lost. He especially enjoys bringing his bees to Stoney Ridge each year. But with Julia on a mission to punish him for inspiring Paul's cold feet, the Lapp farm is looking decidedly less pleasant.

About Suzanne:

Her interest in the Amish began with her grandfather, W.D. Benedict, who was raised Plain. She has many, many Plain relatives living in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, and travels back to Pennsylvania, as well as to Ohio, a couple of times each year for research.

Suzanne has a great admiration for the Plain people and believes they provide wonderful examples to the world. In both her fiction and non-fiction books, she has an underlying theme: You don't have to "go Amish" to incorporate many of their principles--simplicity, living with less, appreciating nature, forgiving others more readily-- into your life.

When Suzanne isn't writing or bragging to her friends about her first new grandbaby (!), she is raising puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind. To Suzanne's way of thinking, you just can't take life too seriously when a puppy is tearing through your house with someone's underwear in its mouth.

Suzanne can be found on-line at: www.suzannewoodsfisher.com.

It's a "honey of a giveaway"!

Enter to win an iPad2 from Suzanne and connect with her on January 17th at The Keeper Facebook Party!

During the giveaway one Grand Prize winner will receive a Prize Pack valued at $600:

A brand new 16 KB iPad 2 with Wi-Fi
A $25 gift certificate to iTunes
A copy of The Keeper

But wait there's more! Just click one of the icons below to enter, then on 1/17 join Suzanne for The Keeper Facebook Party! During the party Suzanne will announce the winner of the "Honey" of an iPad Giveaway and host a fun book chat and give away some fun "honey" inspired prizes - It'll be 'sweet"!

RSVP early and tell your friends!

Tell your friends on FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Good luck and we hope to see you on the 17th at 5:00 PM PST (6:00 MST, 7:00 CST, 8:00 EST)!

***AND NOW~ THE WINNER OF MY GIVEAWAY FOR A COPY OF THE KEEPER IS~***

Wendi of My Heart Is Always Home

"Lord~Let Me Burn Out For You"

2012-01-11T06:26:00.000-06:00

"Lord~ let me burn out for You."

MARK 8:35 (KJV)

³⁵For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it.

J. Oswald Sanders wrote in his book~ Facing Loneliness ~
The round of pleasure or the amassing of wealth are but vain attempts to escape from the persistent ache. . . . The millionaire is usually a lonely man, and the comedian is often more unhappy than his audience.”

He explains that being successful often does not make one satisfied. Which we can all see by looking around us.

He introduces his readers to a man named Henry Martyn. Martyn was a great scholar. He attended Cambridge University and was honored at the young age of 20 for his achievements in Math. He was given the highest recognition possible in that field. Yet ~ he acknowledged that he felt empty on the inside. He stated that he had "only grasped a shadow."

He ended up sailing to India as a missionary at the age of 24. When he arrived he prayed, "Lord, let me burn out for You." Over the next 7 years he translated the New Testament into the three most difficult Eastern languages. Now that was not a passing shadow!

No matter how great or small our accomplishments may be~ we will only find fulfillment in following Christ and being obedient to Him. A life lived fully to the Lord is all that will truly satisfy that longing in our heart.

Oh, I too want to say~ "Lord, let me burn out for You."

Only Jesus Can Satisfy Your Soul

The world may try to satisfy

That longing in your soul.

You may search the wide world over
But you'll be just as before.
You'll never find true satisfaction
Until you've found the Lord,
For only Jesus can satisfy your soul.

Only Jesus can satisfy your soul.
Yes, only He can change your heart
And make you whole.
He'll give you peace you never knew,
Sweet joy and love and Heaven, too.
For only Jesus can satisfy your soul.

If you could have the fame and fortune,
All the wealth you could attain.
Yet, you have not Christ within,
Your living here would be in vain.
There'll come a time when death will find you,
Riches cannot help you then.
So, come to Jesus, only He can satisfy.

Only Jesus can satisfy your soul:
Yes, only He can change your heart
And make you whole.
He'll give you peace you never knew,
Sweet joy and love and Heaven, too.
Only Jesus can satisfy your soul.
Yes, only Jesus can satisfy your soul.

Have a blessed day~

"I Don't Have It In Me"~

2012-01-10T19:44:00.003-06:00

1 John 4:13

King James Version (KJV)

¹³Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.

"I don't have it in me." ~ I whispered to God today. I was listening to a friend go on and on with the blessings, successes and achievements in her life. I smiled! But in my secret heart ~ the contrast of my own recent loss and burdened ~ broken~ shattered heart I fought the ugly temptation to sink into my very sad place I find in my spirit today. I could say sweet things and fake it~ but I really want to be real. I wanted to coax my heart to celebrate in joy with her.

How does one attend a baby shower~when they just buried their unborn baby? How does one celebrate a friends promotion when they have just lost their job? How does a person rejoice in another's miraculous healing when their body is full of pain? Without saying ~ "What about me~Lord?"

But ~ as I try to rejoice with my very happy friend ~ I silently confessed to the Lord. "I don't have it in me." As I am talking with my God in the silent places of my mind the recognition filled me like a deep breathe of peace. Of course I don't have the power in myself ~ just as I didn't have the power to forgive those who hurt me~ or sing a song through a throat of tears~ or rejoice in my friends mountaintop place in life when life for me is deep in the valley. I can't do any of it!

But ~ Jesus can! ~ Hallelujah ~ Praise God from whom all blessings flow~ HE LIVES IN ME!!

Tonight in my quietness my prayer is ~ "Lord, love through me. Help me to not focus on the issues in my life so I can rejoice for my friend. It is not in me~ but it is in you."

Psalm 3

¹Lord, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me.
²Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah.
³But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.
⁴I cried unto the LORD with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah.
⁵I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me.
⁶I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.
⁷Arise, O LORD; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone; thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly.
⁸Salvation belongeth unto the LORD: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah.

For Today~

2012-01-10T07:43:00.003-06:00

Click the picture to join in on the fun!

FOR TODAY

Outside my window... a beautiful moon is glowing over my pond in the front yard. So peaceful~ and beautiful. Surely the Almighty God has everything under control. I think I will leave it in His hands!

Today is all about FUN!

I am thinking... “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:15-16 KJV

I am thankful... For God's amazing grace!

In the kitchen... eggs are boiling~ weigh in at Weight Watchers tomorrow. I am excited ~ I have done well this week. I BELIEVE is the word for the year. I believe alright along with counting every point plus and moving this body! I will lose 25 pounds~ I think I can~ I think I can~ I think I can!!!! This picture is my inspiration!

I am wearing... my jammies.

I am creating... today we are crafting some adorable ribbon streamers for My Hannah's wedding. A Pinerest idea~go figure. She has chosen grey and yellow for her colors. Have I mentioned yellow is my favorite color? (her daddy's too) I am so thrilled about that.

I am going... for class sign ups this morning. I am teaching Art this Spring. Sounds like fun~ grades 1-6. I am so looking forward to spending time with these little guys once again. Some I have had since preschool what a treat!

I am wondering... what to get Keaton~ my grandson for his birthday?~ And what shall we decorate his cake in?~ He will be 2 this Friday. Grandma Carrie is going to hang balloons on the porch~his momma loved it when I did that for her Birthday. I am so excited!

I am also wondering if Winter will pay us a visit. SO far it feels much like Spring here at Farming on Faith.

I am reading... Beyond Molasses Creek.

I am hoping... to find some yellow forsythias for some centerpieces for the wedding today. I have tons of Pinterest photos My Hannah I are trying to re-create,

I am also hoping to go visit my Amish friends soon~ just need some honest to goodness fun!

I am looking forward to... breakfast tomorrow with a special friend. Where would we be without our friends who bear all our burdens? Just makes life doable!

I am learning......... to let go.........sigh******

Around the house... just received a text from a friend who said she is praying for me. Now that will bless your socks right off! Do you need a friend to pray for you? Send me an email and I will pray for you and with you.

I am pondering... over wedding plans.

A favorite quote for today...

One of my favorite things...
Breakfast on Saturday morning ~ My Brian spoils me on this day by making it! I just love it! I am trying to clue him in on W/W points~ tehe!

A peek into my day... school~always comes first! Fellowship and fun at class sign ups. Lunch with my gypsy girl and wedding shopping. Here is the Wyeth~Tootle Mansion where she and Jacob will be getting married. Just beautiful~

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

1 Peter Bible Study~

2012-01-09T20:37:00.002-06:00

My blog has been chosen to take part in a 9 week Bible Study and I am so excited. It is called ~

1 Peter

Finding Encouragement in Troubling Times

And girlfriend~I am needing encouragement. I have been walking with Jesus for almost 27 years and never have their been as many troubles and trials as I have had the past few months. Each Tuesday morning for the next nine weeks I will post what I have gleaned from the Bible Study in I Peter.

Do you ever wonder if you would deny Christ if faced with prison, poverty or pain?

I have had some real pain lately since my father went out and fell to his death in his front yard. My mother's illness and surgery and some other issues I just can't tell in public......grin**** I mean is that not how it goes? Are you with me? It seems like our enemy tries his best to kick us while we are down. I am praising the Lord for His perfect timing in placing this in my hands for such a time as this.

But even with my very heavy heart I am reminded in this study there are Christians in Sudan, Indonesia and Iran that are enduring persecution this very day. Peter~ himself suffered a martyr's death. Even with a broken heart shattered in a thousand pieces over many reasons I am not fearing for my life. Praising the Lord for that! And this study has burdened my heart to pray for those that are.

Now just because I am doing this study does not mean I am signing up in line for calamity~as our author writes herself. I am not so brave~ no way.

In the first chapter we study how to prepare for opposition. Our first century sisters faced hostility and hatred for their faith. We were challenged to deal with some issues where we have felt disenfranchised ~discriminated against or even mistreated~ even a little for our faith.

Yesterday was a perfect example about this. I posted that I felt after I accepted Christ into my life I wanted to express my love for God in the way I lived as an expression of my love to God. Not that I am self righteous or try to gain God's favor. But as my expression to God I strive to offer him a holy life to the best of my ability.

The attacks came even from someone I love dearly. I felt very discriminated against. I was not preaching any issues at all~ only that I felt a Holy and just God deserves our very best. For those people who visit each and every day if I have ever made you feel judged or as if I am self-righteous please forgive me. I will repeat I am just a sinner saved by grace trying my very best to serve God one moment at a time!

1 Peter 1:13-16

King James Version (KJV)

¹³Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
¹⁴As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:
¹⁵But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;
¹⁶Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

1 Peter 1:3-5

King James Version (KJV)

³Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
⁴To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,
⁵Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

This week we were to read 1 Peter 1:1-12 but as you can see that I had to read ahead and if the verse fits~well I just had to use it.

The apostle Peter was writing to God's people who were scattered throughout what is now modern Turkey. People knew they were suffering all kinds of trials so he wrote to encourage them to persevere in a "lively hope." As Christians we can endure our sufferings better when we remember our salvation by God's power and evidence of that power by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

I may not know what tomorrow holds but I know who holds my hand. God's great riches He provides for all His children is that we have the hope and assurance that we are kept by His power. Just as Peter had the power of God on his life I serve the same God. He is the same yesterday, today and forever!

Now that is reason to celebrate today!

A Love Issue~

2012-01-09T09:31:00.002-06:00

John 14:15

King James Version (KJV)

¹⁵If ye love me, keep my commandments.

Why do I do what I do? I told you this year I was going to address this issue in my life. Why do I think how I dress is important? Why do I only listen to Christian music? Why do I spend so much time at the church house? Why do I not drink or do drugs? What drives me? All of these questions need an answer. Let me give you one. I am an old fashioned Baptist girl~ but that has nothing to do with it!

To some it may seem like I am trying to appease God or earn His favor. Like maybe my standards will earn my way to Heaven or to some maybe that I am self-righteous. I am nothing but a sinner saved by grace. No matter how hard I try ~I sin! I have to ask God and others to forgive me on a daily basis. I fall short and fail all the time! Me?~ self-righteous~ Of course this is so far from the truth. OUR GOD LOVES US BECAUSE OF WHO HE IS ~NOT BECAUSE OF WHAT WE DO!

SO if God loves us unconditionally ~why does it matter how we look ~ where we go and what we do? I review for many popular Christian book publishers. I read over 150 books last year. I love to read and it keeps me on my toes. I take the good and toss out the bad. One thing I have noticed in many Christian books is the main topic is the love of God and the freedom we have in Christ.

The love of God is unmeasured by any other love. What I am noticing is that the emphasis is on God's love but I read so little about the responsibility of man. The main theme I hear as I read through so many books is that God loves us just the way we are (and this is true) that there is no need to conform in any way to a certain standard of living. That is simply not true. Please hear me when I say this~ Christian standards are not about getting love FROM God~ they are about loving God.

Mom~ let's talk. If you have children ~then this will make perfect sense to you. We love our children unconditionally. I have loved my children from the minute I found out they were in my womb. My love is so strong for them I would lay down my life for any of them. Nothing~nothing~nothing in this life could keep me from loving my kids. God gave us the blessings of relationships as an example to understand our relationship with Him~ our Heavenly Father.

My love for my children has nothing to do with my expectations for my child. Yet ~ I do expect things from my children. I am very particular in how I want things done around my home. I want bath towels hung up after a bath so they don't mildew and stink. I want sticky spills cleaned up so that we don't stick to the floor. I want globs of toothpaste cleaned up out of the sink so that it does not dry and become difficult to get wiped up. I want empty cartons thrown in the trash. I want my family to sit down at the table when I spent time planning, buying and cooking a meal. I want the bathrooms cleaned and rid of germs on a continual basis so we don't get sick. Listen the list goes on. I have many preferences that I want and so do you. Does this list have anything to do with how much I love my children not at all. (I want my husband to show his love to me by his actions and I really want him to show his love to me by being faithful! We have freedom in our marriage~ but that does not mean he is free to go home to some other woman tonight! I have expectations for the love of my life and he has some for me too. )

Do you love your child any less when they don't take out the trash? No way ~that is silly. My love for my children is constant. But the expectations are there nevertheless. The Lord's love for us never wavers. He loves us no matter what we wear~what we watch on television~ who are friends are ~what we read or where we go to church. BUT~ the Lord has plenty of expectations for His children. We do not try to earn His acceptance by how we live ~ we obey Him to show our love to Him.

How we live is very important to a Holy and just God! Our Lord loves us in a very powerful~ unconditionally~ unending~ passionate way. His love will never diminish. The same God is very ~very opinionated. And He has many preferences. He recorded those preferences for us in His Word. It is my privilege to find out how He wants me to live ~ and live in that way. It does matter to God how we dress, how we speak, what we eat and drink~ who we marry and where we attend church........ He cares bout everything! Please don't let anyone convince you that because God loves you ~ He does not care what you do.

In summary~ I will say again. I am thankful that God loves me when I am good and when I am bad. I blow it each and every day. My righteousness are as filthy rags but He loves me the same.

But the longer I walk this journey with the Lord the more I have to be thankful for~ the times He has held me up when I could not take another step~ the times He has dried my tears~ the times He has given me light for my path~ the times He has answered my prayers~the times He has walked with me to the cemetery~ the times He was there when people have betrayed me~ the times He was my all and all and mostly because He saved my soul ~ I will never have to face anything in this life on my own. Why in the world would I not want to offer him my feeble attempts of my best? He truly does deserve it!

That my friend is why I do what I do ~

Amish Book Giveaway~ "The Keeper"

2012-01-07T08:05:00.001-06:00

Let me just say I finished this book last night and it is a "keeper" for sure. I am in the mood for a brand new giveaway. Suzanne Woods Fisher is one of my favorite authors and she has given me an extra copy to give to one lucky winner. This book has just been released ~ 2012. I will be posting my review on January 12th. On that day I will pick the winner!

To enter leave me your New Year's Resolution or a word that focuses on your goals for the coming year. Mine is strength. So simple~ I can't wait to hear from you. Hurry the giveaway ends 1/12/12.