Grow Barefoot

Always Be Ready to Quit

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 14:17:52 PST

Grow Barefoot is happy to welcome guest blogger Jennifer Slattery. It's interesting to read her article and see God teaching her some of the same stuff He's been teaching me the past couple of months. "Let go of the stress and trust Me..."

Sometimes I think my laundry basket has the whole Elijah thing going on—like with the widow who never ran out of flour. Most days my home runs like a fast-paced assembly line. Wake up, make the bed, clean the kitchen, answer the phone, take my daughter to school, fold laundry, mop the floor, pick my daughter up from school, go to bed, wake up, make the bed… It’s like a never-ending cycle that drags me from one task to the next like a wayward waif clinging to a steadily moving conveyer belt. And each day before I pull myself out of bed, I make a promise—to myself and to God. Today I will find time to pray.

But then the day begins, and laundry must be folded, lunches must be made and dishes must be washed.

But what would happen if I quit…for a day? What if I put my to-do list aside, turned off my cell phone, unplugged my landline and shut down my computer? What if I set everything aside to rest and be refreshed by God’s presence? Perhaps my house would not be as tidy as I would like, and maybe left-overs would grace our table more frequently, but along with the dirty dishes and micro-waved meals, my family would get a much happier, calmer me. And I suspect, if I were to ask them which they preferred--an immaculate home and crabby mommy or a little bit of clutter with much joy--I am sure they would choose the latter.

Jennifer Slattery lives in the Midwest with her husband of sixteen years and their fourteen year old daughter. She writes for Christ to the World Ministries (http://www.christtotheworldministries.com), The Christian Pulse (http://www.thechristianpulse.com/), the Internet Café Devotions, Jewels of Encouragement, and co-hosts (with five other authors) a Facebook faith community called Living by Grace. Find out more about her and her writing at http://jenniferslatterylivesoutloud.com/.

Trusting God For...

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 12:05:45 PST

Those who know me well know that I am a list-maker. Grocery lists. Errand lists. Long-term project lists. To-do lists for each of my girls, my ministry, our home school, and housecleaning. Sometimes I even make a honey-do list for, well, my honey.

Since my recent trip to Haiti, however, I have been living a different life. I haven’t made a single to-do list since I’ve been home. I have tried to trust God in all things for several months. I realize now that I had trusted Him for most things, but not all things. Conviction started surfacing in my schedule and how I spend my time. List-making was a way of controlling my time, my stress level, and my fear of forgetting something. List-making was not a way of trusting God.

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.” John 14:1

So now, I’m trusting God for every…

Breath I take

Dollar I spend

Bite I eat

Step I take

Task I do

Word I speak

Moment I live

Knowing each was given to me for a reason and a purpose.

Talk to me: What is God calling you to trust Him for today?

This is a follow-up to an article I wrote a few weeks ago, Getting the Work Done.

Israel's Current Danger

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 06:06:46 PST

A friend of mine believes in salvation by grace alone. She fully understands that what we do or who we are will in no way influence our eternal destination. Even still, during conversations regarding the Jews or the Holocaust, she shares that she is still holding out hope that somehow they made it into heaven because of what they endured. And although I also know that salvation is by faith in Jesus as the Messiah alone, secretly, I agree that if anyone had a chance beyond that criterion, it would be them.

I was wondering why this is as many people groups have endured mass extermination over the centuries. Without minimizing the severity of their plight, the Jews aren’t the only ones to have been persecuted. I believe it is because the Jews, the descendants of Israel, are close to God’s heart; therefore, for those of us who are His children, they are close to our own as well.

I wrote the following article on April 2, 2008 as we were traveling to Israel with a group called The Joshua Fund…

“We haven't even left American soil yet and our journey has been fun. This trip has already brought home the idea that Jerusalem is the heart of the world. If we were to tell people we were headed for Germany or China, they might say, "Oh, how exciting. Have fun." Then the conversation would be done. When you say you're going to Israel, people have a strong reaction. So far, all of ours have been good. Everyone we've talked to has overwhelmingly shared in the joy and excitement of going to the birthplace of Christianity.”

After telling the details of three of our encounters, the article ends…

“These three experiences were even more exciting because the first woman was an African-American, the couple on the bus attends an Assembly of God church in Branson, and the young woman was from Bulgaria. God's church is all around the world and, not only that, but people around the world love Israel and want to bless her during these times that we live in.”

Yet, despite all that, Israel is facing its greatest danger in its modern history. My article is not to share the news coming out of Israel; for that, I refer you to the blog of Joel Rosenberg, the founder of The Joshua Fund.

www.flashtrafficblog.wordpress.com

And especially this article: Iran's Ayatollah: Kill All Jews, Annihilate Israel; Iran Lays Out Legal Case for Genocidal Preemptive Attack Against Cancerous Tumor

My purpose in writing this article is to say that now is the time for action. Those of us who are believers in Jesus know that God has a plan for Israel and that plan won’t be stopped. A catastrophic war with Iran is coming. Will it be this year? I don’t know. Will this current situation be it? I don’t know. However, Ezekiel 38-39 warns us that it is coming and when I look at the geo-political landscape, I see that all the players are getting into position. This could possibly be it.

As shared at the beginning of this article, I have seen unexplainable love for Israel and the Jewish people throughout God’s worldwide church. War may be coming, but we can still do something. First, never underestimate the power of prayer. It is not a last resort but rather a first line of defense. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Pray for the hearts of the people to be open to Jesus as their awaited Messiah. Second, support reputable organizations like The Joshua Fund who already have people on the ground, structures set up, and supplies ready to provide aid and assistance should a catastrophe come to Israel. My regular readers will also know about my recent trip to Haiti and growing love for that country. A primary reason for the massive loss of life there after the earthquake two years ago was that trained people and resources weren’t available to provide the needed care. Support of organizations like The Joshua Fund can help avoid that type of situation in Israel should catastrophe come to her borders.

“I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” (Genesis 12:3)

To learn more about The Joshua Fund, please click here.

To read my article from 2008 in its entirety, please click here.

Dead Batteries

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:17:37 PST

One of my daughters was sick over the weekend and I decided to take her to the Walk-in Clinic at our pediatrician’s office on Monday morning. The Walk-in Clinic is a blessing because an appointment is not required; it is a curse because the wait can often be long, especially during cold and flu season. Anticipating the wait, I grabbed my Tab (Android version of an iPad) on the way out of the house so she could play games or read while we waited. My preparedness turned out to be worthless though. The batteries had been run down the day before and I hadn’t plugged it in to recharge overnight.

A few days later I wanted to listen to my iPod while housecleaning. After searching awhile, I found it in a pocket of my backpack with a dead battery. Weeks of neglect had killed it.

As I write this, my cell phone is charging in the kitchen, my daughter’s iPod is plugged into my computer, and my laptop is plugged into the wall. The battery on it no longer charges so it doesn’t work at all unless it’s plugged in.

All of this charging and plugging started me wondering; does God ever want to use us and our batteries are run down so low that we can’t do what He desires? Do we ever wander so far that when He finds us, we are worthless because we haven’t plugged in lately?

Our American culture plans out each moment of our day weeks and even months ahead of time. We are so busy working, shopping, cleaning, cooking, planning, playing, talking, texting, meeting, eating, driving and doing that we don’t take enough time to plug in and recharge.

Spiritually recharging ourselves can be done in so many ways. Some may renew their spiritual batteries by hiking through the woods and enjoying the beauty of creation whereas others may recharge by spending sometime by themselves in prayer. For me, I recharge by studying and writing about God’s Word. My husband, on the other hand, is reenergized by worshipping God through music with a great praise band. There are as many ways to spiritually recharge ourselves as there are Christians who need to do it! What’s critical though is that we find time to stop…just stop…,plug in to Him and let Him refill us once again.

How do you spiritually recharge? Leave a comment or idea to encourage others!

“Even youths grow tired and weary,

and young men stumble and fall;

but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.

They will soar on wings like eagles;

they will run and not grow weary,

they will walk and not be faint.”

Isaiah 40:30-31

Husbands, Love Your Wives

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 07:32:35 PST

I am pleased to introduce the first guest blogger on Grow Barefoot! The last seven articles have been about my recent mission trip to Haiti. Well, it turns out God was busy on the homefront as well. My husband, Jimmy, wrote the following post and asked me to share it with you...

My wife left on January 2 for a mission trip to Haiti Home of Hope, a mission orphanage we support through our church. Throughout the months leading up to the trip we discussed whether or not she should go. She wanted to, but she also wanted my blessing. As with most things of this magnitude, I went to the Lord in prayer for direction, comfort and affirmation this was something we should do. The answer came with ease and comfort. I went to Kathi to tell her it would be great for her to go. As the trip neared and plans were made, it became more and more evident that this was God’s plan and that she was to go.

As a “husband we are to love our wives as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” (Ephesians 5:25). I don’t know about you, but that kind of sacrificial love is really hard for me. In this particular example, to love my wife was to let her go on this trip. Better yet, I have learned something in her absence. It wasn’t that she is an amazing wife and mother; I knew that already. It wasn’t that I had to take care of the house and our four girls with the help of my parents and Kathi’s dad.

It is this: LOVE. I learned more about Christ’s love for us and its impact on our relationship. Our bond is strong because of God and our commitment to Him and each other.

I was not able to talk to her for the seven days she was out of the country. As a husband, the first five days were gut-wrenching. I missed my wife. I constantly thought of her, wondering how she was doing and longing to hear her voice. Looking back, I think maybe I was able to feel a little of how Christ must feel when we don’t communicate or talk to Him. We must, as husbands and as Christians, talk to Jesus Christ. We must communicate with the Lord to allow our household to function properly.

When I was able to finally talk to Kathi, I cried at the sound of her voice on the other end of the phone. The communication line was back open. As husbands we must communicate with our wives, just as we must communicate with Christ. We are to imitate Christ in our relationship with our wife. If we do that to the best of our ability we can transform ourselves and we can transform our marriage. Love.

For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church,
his body, of which he is the Savior…
Husbands, love your wives,
just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.
Ephesians 5:23, 25

Getting the Work Done

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 11:56:06 PST

Although I’m home from Haiti now, I am still thinking about my trip. I’ve known Jennifer, or Mommy as she’s called at the orphanage, for years but this was my first time to go visit her there in Haiti. I’ve heard her stories and imagined her conditions for years, all the while trying to fathom how she is able to do what she does. In recent conversations and especially while observing her on the trip, I figured it out. In the answer are some lessons for us all.

Do What You Can, Let Go of the Rest

Although I’ve never examined a room she has painted, Jennifer says she is not at all good at the job. So, instead of going ahead and painting rooms when they need it, she has missions teams, like ours, do that job. She understands that teaching is not one of her gifts but also knows their children need to be home-schooled rather than attend the local Haitian school. Therefore, she has passed that job over to an intern who is staying with them. On the other hand, she is able to supervise the ins-and-outs of the orphanage in a way that few could. Consistent with her gifting, that is how she focuses much of her time and energy. In short, she recognizes her abilities and her inabilities and focuses her time and energy on what she is able to do. “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 4:10-11)

Accept Help, Offer Help

Other jobs fall into a slightly different category. Jennifer, a very talented cook, is quite able to prepare meals for the orphans and her family. However, she also recognizes that it is too large of a task for one person to do by herself, especially in a country lacking prepackaged foods and take-out restaurants. Therefore, she has staff to cook for the orphans each day and cook for the family two meals a day, five days per week. She knows how to do the laundry for all 37 orphans, plus her family, but knows it is too big of a job for one person. So, again, she has staff to do the laundry for the orphans and either she or the staff does the laundry for the family. It is easy to become self-sufficient and even prideful that we can do everything for ourselves. This is not how God intends it to be, though. He desires for us to work together and help one another because life is hard in this corrupted world. Although this verse was written of Phoebe, a first-century helper in the church, I think it fits here as well. “I ask you to receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints and to give her any help she may need from you, for she has been a great help to many people, including me.” (Romans 16:2)

Living free and pursuing holiness would be much easier for all of us if we let go of the things which God has not called us to do and only do the things to which He has called us. I can guarantee you that He won’t give you more to do than what you can handle.

Cleaning Off the Dirt

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 14:11:25 PST

On Sunday of my time here in Haiti, a few of us visited the home of one of the families who come to the milk clinic at the orphanage. Amy is a newborn whose mother died in childbirth. Her aunt and grandfather have been walking eight miles to bring her to the milk clinic to receive clothing and infant formula. The precious baby weighs less than five pounds.

Due to the poor conditions of the roads it took us close to an hour to travel the eight miles by truck. After asking around, we found Amy's hut and were glad to find her family home. A brief exam found her in good condition, relatively speaking, and then I had the privilege of rocking her while the pastor who came with us visited with the grandfather and aunt.

My French is too poor to understand much of their Creole dialect that they speak so I'm afraid I can't retell the conversation that transpired between the two. After several minutes of conversation, though, Pastor turned to us and said, in English, that they wanted to accept Christ as their Savior. They bowed down to pray and I could make out enough of what was said to know they recognized the sin in their lives and accepted the gift of Jesus' death on the cross as the payment for their sin, thereby enabling their eternal life in heaven with Him.

As they prayed, I silently prayed for their newfound faith, spiritual protection, and growth. Here is where my story turns ugly, though. As I stood in the filth of their hut, holding a sweet infant who smelled of her own waste, I found myself praying, "Lord, what a blessing it would be for You to return soon and lift this family out of these desperate, dirty conditions." Here is my confession: At this point in my prayer, my thoughts shifted. In that squalor, my bizarre mind wondered if God will hose us all off as we leave earth and enter His heavenly presence. Please don't leave me nasty comments, I can't help it these weird thoughts pop into my mind.

As soon as the thought entered my head, the Spirit reminded me that in God's eyes, all of us are more dirty and filthy than the aunt and grandfather were in my eyes. "All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags;" (Isaiah 64:6). In our sinful state, we our so nasty, so dirty, that Holy God has to turn His back to us. In His glory and perfection, we can't even be in His presence.

The wonder of it all is that God couldn't stand for us not to be in His presence. His sacrifice on the cross made the way for us to be made clean, and, in a way, He will hose us off when we stand before Him someday - it will just be a little more spiritual.

"'Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear.' Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of the saints." (Revelation 19:7-8)

And a Little Child Shall Lead Them

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 14:08:29 PST

"The wolf will live with the Lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them." (Isaiah 11:6)

This morning in Haiti we attended a Haitian church. Everyone got dressed in their Sunday best and waited to make the half-mile walk to the church. Mommy's foot was injured so her and Poppy rode the four-wheeler to church. Poppy told us we could go ahead and leave, they would be driving separately.

Uh, excuse me? You want us to take off walking through the streets of a third world village, having no idea where we are going or how to get there?

OK, that's not what I said. Instead I suppressed my panic and asked Bill how to get to the church. His answer, "Oh, it's OK. Just walk with the kids. They can take you." Thus, I found myself holding the hand of a preschooler, walking to church to worship, being led by a group of young children.

Before the day was over, we had attended two different church services - a large congregation in town led by Pastor Francoise and a small congregation on the edge of town led by Pastor Clebert. In my life I have now attended services in German, Hebrew, and Creole. In each one I could only understand a very few words. Each time, though, I have sensed the presence of the Spirit of God and rejoiced that people around the world are worshipping God with a common Spirit even if we don't share common languages.

"After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count from every nation, tribe, people, and language standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands." (Revelation 7:9)

Divine Inconvenience

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:45:59 PST

We arrived in Haiti around 9:00am this past Tuesday; none of our group's checked luggage, however, did. After some searching on the computer, a lady at the airport told us all of our bags should be on the next flight, arriving around 12:00. OK, well, it's not the best situation, but we settled in, sitting on the baggage claim for a long wait. Our wait caused us to miss our mission flight into the mountains.

Meanwhile, Mommy was waiting at the grass airstrip in Pignon to pick us up. Since we didn't make our 1:00 mission flight, our spots on the plane were given to a different group, and we took their spots on a later flight. While Mommy was waiting she struck up a conversation with another lady who was waiting to pick up the group who flew on our originally scheduled flight. That group was a medical group from the Baltimore/Washington D.C. area and included a pediatric physical therapist, pediatrician, and a psychiatrist. Interestingly enough, that was the perfect combination to help with some of the special needs children here at the orphanage.

The medical group came by the orphanage today and helped several of the kids. I was able to help the physical therapist with Mikey's wheelchair. Mikey has hydrocephalus and although he is five years old, has the body of a one year old. She made several adjustments to his chair which should increase his comfort and mobility.

None of the medical blessings today would have happened if our luggage had been on time and we were on our correct flight from Port-au-Prince to Pignon. None of our group complained about the problems with the luggage but we easily could have. How humbling to see today how our inconvenience, our difficulty, enabled such a blessing for others.

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him,

who have been called according to His purpose."

(Romans 8:28)

Blessing

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:42:38 PST

I'm convinced God doesn't want to just meet our needs, just barely get by. He wants to bless us from the depths of His infinite riches. Yet another odd lesson to ponder in one of the poorest countries on earth.

I spent the last two days decorating the bedroom of the missionary couple we are helping here in Haiti. Mommy and Poppy have spent the last several years pouring their lives into the kids; today we had the blessing of being able to do something for Mommy and Poppy. We painted, cleaned, designed, and decorated, all the while banning Mommy from entering her own bedroom. Although no one yelled, "Move that bus!" tears were still wiped away as blessings flowed, not only for Mommy and Poppy, but also for me and my group.

Decorating a room may seem like an odd task for a mission trip. I don't know, maybe it is. I do know that this is the project God wanted us to do. Through direction and provision, His holy fingerprints were all over this project from its inception. So, although it may be odd, seeing God's love for this couple who have given their lives to care for the "least of these" and being chosen as an instrument to convey that blessing has melted my heart each time I think about it.

"Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." (Luke 6:38)

Thank You Too Much

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:40:02 PST

"One of them when he saw he was healed came back, praising God in a loud voice.

He threw himself at Jesus feet and thanked him."

(Luke 17:15-16)

I have been reminded several times today of the power of a grateful heart.

I spent the morning helping at the milk clinic here at the orphanage. The milk clinic is a ministry to those in the area that are unable to provide milk or formula for children under their care. Perhaps the child's mother has passed away or they are simply unable to feed the baby due to sickness or poverty - despite the reason, parents and caregivers can come to the clinic for help. Offered every other week, the clinic weighs the child, offers a brief medical assessment, provides clean clothing as needed, milk or formula for the child, and sometimes food for the family. We wrapped up our time in the clinic and started to head back to the main house. We were stopped by a young woman with a small boy. The boy had been cared for in the clinic as a baby, probably saving him from becoming another statistic of infant death in a third world country. As they explained their story, they weren't there for food or free clothing. They had come back simply to say thank you.

After a yummy lunch for which I was thankful, we prepared for and hosted the Christmas party for the children. True thankfulness and generosity glowed in the eyes of many of the children as they opened their gift bags and shoeboxes. After the presents were stowed away under their bunks, the party ended with a special treat of popcorn and chocolate cake. As three of the girls sat eating, they kept telling Poppy, their affectionate name for the husband half of the couple who runs the orphanage, "Thank you too much!"

A third story of the day, a third story of thankfulness. Between the clinic and the party, Jennifer, or Mommy, had the blessing of cutting a little girl's hair. This may seem like more of a chore than a blessing but this particular haircut removed a certain type of dreads which symbolized her family's involvement in voodoo. Her parents accepted Christ several months ago and, after months of spiritual growth and teaching, were ready to have the dreads removed. The message of God's salvation and the transformation is the greatest source of our thankfulness.

In a life of ease and abundance it is easy to develop an attitude of expectation rather than gratitude. When we know need at the life-or-death level, gratitude flows much more easily. Especially when the life or death is spiritual.

Heart Vision in Haiti

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:37:22 PST

My expectation of the sights of Port-au-Prince and Haiti in general seemed inconsequential compared to the stories experienced travelers kept telling me before my arrival. I've stepped over bodies in the streets of Hell's Kitchen, New York. I've stood in the gas chambers of Dachau concentration camp. I've cleaned out hovels of the homeless that defy understanding. So as I heard tell of the conditions in Haiti, I kept thinking, "Yeah, I get it. Trust me, I know most of the world doesn't live like we do." At the same time, even I was curious as to my indifference.

Over the last several weeks a seemingly unrelated verse has been floating around in my thoughts, "What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?" (Mark 8:36).

As we flew into Port-au-Prince this morning the sights over the city looked much as I expected. And, you might think I'm crazy, it looked beautiful. I don't know why but the city held a certain beauty. And it was in that moment, flying into the poverty and desperation, that all my confusing thoughts became clear. The slums of Port-au-Prince are no more awful than the sudivisions of home or any other place. Each place is the home of the poor and destitute. Oh, we in America may have beautiful homes, cars, and clothing, but we are just as spiritually poor and destitute as any Haitian. And in the end, that is what truly matters.

It doesn't matter how much we gain if we don't gain eternal salvation along the way. And to go one step further, if you'll permit me to rephrase Mark 8:36, it doesn't matter how much we give if we aren't giving the message of eternal salvation. All the humanitarian aid in the world means little if the recepient still loses his own soul.

Heart-vision: Seeing with the eyes of the heart.

A Simple "Silent Night"

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 09:19:43 PST

Two days before Christmas our pastor called my husband, Jimmy, and asked if our daughter, Hope, would play the piano for church on Christmas morning. Somewhat surprised, but knowing she had a few Christmas carols in her musical repertoire, Jimmy agreed. What’s significant about this is Hope is only six years old and is not an accomplished pianist. In fact, she has only been taking lessons for a few months. Despite her inexperience, she nonchalantly agreed to play. On Christmas morning, she seated her small frame in front of the grand piano and simply yet beautifully played “O Come, All Ye Faithful” and “Silent Night.”

“I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” (Luke 18:17)

Around a month ago, Hope received a book of Level One Christmas carols. Born with a passion for music, she diligently began to learn every song in the book. She never expected to play for anyone besides us and her piano teacher but that didn’t matter. She loves to play and practiced her carols every day. Similarly, God wants us to study Him, get to know Him and His Word, everyday simply because we love Him, not so we can look good when spiritually perform for others. When we grow in Him just because we love Him, we become a vessel He can use at unexpected, impromptu opportunities. “But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (1 Peter 3:15)

Many people commented after the church service that, because she was so little, they couldn’t even see Hope while she was playing. The pews full of watching eyes, the imposing grandeur of the piano, and the expectant silence of the room could have combined to scare her into not playing her songs, not doing what she had been asked to do. I have felt this way so many times in my ministry. The voice inside my head says, “You can’t teach. What business do you have trying to explain the Word of God.” Or, “You can’t speak. People will be bored with what you have to say.” Or, “You can’t write. Everyone will be critical of the words you type.” At those times I have to recognize the true enemy, face the giants of fear and rejection, and do what God has called me to do, “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6)

Like I said, Hope is not an accomplished pianist. Her song was simple. So often, we feel we can’t serve because we aren’t the most perfect, the most accomplished. I call this the “Martha Stewart syndrome.” We can’t have people over for coffee because our house isn’t adequate. We can’t teach a class because we’ve never done it before. We can’t serve on a mission trip because we don’t have all the training as would a real missionary. God calls us to those things, and countless others, not because we are so perfect at them but because through our weakness He is glorified. “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me…For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:9-10)

Time to Wake Up!

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 08:32:34 PST

I was barely awakened this morning by my husband’s alarm at 5:55am. He headed into the bathroom to get dressed, brush the teeth, and comb the hair while I stayed in a semi-conscious state. It seemed like I laid there for hours when I became aware of him coming out of the bathroom to head to the kitchen and make his lunch. Wondering why it took him so long, I looked at the clock and it was only 6:05. Only ten minutes? We have such a warped sense of time when we are in that state between sound asleep and fully awake.

Some mornings I am still in that semi-conscious state when he comes in to tell me good-bye before leaving for work. In the past he has asked me to do something that day or told me something about his day that I have no recollection of later. I may even verbally respond to what he says, but the information is never processed in my brain as I nod off back to sleep.

In that semi-conscious state between sleep and alert we have a distorted view of reality. I may say or hear things I don’t remember later. Hours may seem minutes and minutes may seem hours. It’s a hazy place to be.

Sadly, many Christians may be in a semi-conscious state spiritually – not quite asleep and not quite awake. They may be experiencing a distorted view of reality. We read books and hear messages but the truths presented are never processed by our brain and never allowed to change our behaviors. We approach the church and Christianity in that same foggy state.

Throw back the covers and get out of bed! We need to wake up! I don’t know how much longer we have to minister to others and share the Word of God with them but I’m afraid that in our semi-conscious state we may think we have hours when in reality we only have a few minutes.

“And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.” (Romans 13:11-12)

As I was writing this, I remembered an old Casting Crowns Christmas song, "While You Were Sleeping."

Under Attack

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 13:40:57 PST

A friend of mine posted this status update on Facebook, “Typical bickering on the way to church…at least we’re on our way…” Due to the commonality of this problem, many of her friends posted comments, including myself. “Our family does that too. I think it’s spiritual attack.”

I’ve thought about these two comments often since they were first posted as spiritual warfare seems to be increasing all around us. Perhaps the times in which we live are bringing out worse weapons in Satan’s arsenal.

I wrote an article on recognizing the true enemy in spiritual warfare entitled Who's the Enemy?. Since its publication, however, I have had some more thoughts regarding this important subject.

Size Doesn’t Matter. Spiritual attacks can come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. My opening example as posted on Facebook may seem insignificant. However, if Satan can get into our families and cause dissension on Sunday morning, then he quite often is successful in keeping families away from church. Many parents opt to stay home from church rather than deal with the stress of getting everyone in the car and to the building on time. Rather than succumb, this is the perfect time to realize our battle isn’t with our kids or spouse but is with a potent spiritual enemy. That enemy is trying to keep us away from a place where he knows we will grow in our relationship with God.

Who Do Ya’ Know? I am currently writing a new study, What Do Ya’ Know?, which looks at twelve truths believers need to know because everything we need for life and godliness is through our knowledge of Him (2 Peter 1:3). I realized the other day that none of the lessons say to know Satan so we can fight him more effectively. Sun Tzu’s The Art of War may teach ‘know your enemy,’ but God’s word doesn’t. I believe we need to know God and His truth; then we will be able to recognize and battle the enemy.

Child Soldiers. The thought of sending a child into battle is horrendous. Although the practice does exist, international agencies work to stop it because no child should be used as a soldier during an armed conflict. Likewise, recognizing and engaging in a spiritual battle is a sign of spiritual maturity. Jesus says in Luke 22:31-32, “Simon, Simon [Peter], Satan has asked to sift you (plural) as wheat. But I have prayed for you (singular), Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” First, Satan must ask before he can attack and, second, Jesus prays for us when Satan is allowed to do so. However, what I really want to point out is the plurality of the first “you.” Satan desired to attack more than one of the disciples, perhaps all. Simon Peter was the only one for whom Satan was given permission to actually do so. I think this was because Simon Peter was the one strong and mature enough to get through the attack and come out victorious on the other side.

Key Battleground. Ephesians 6 is a well-known passage about putting on the armor of God before we take our stand against Satan’s attacks. Recently, a new point in this familiar passage jumped out at me. Once we are fully armored, from head to toe, we fight the battle. The battle is only fought in prayer. “Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints” (Ephesians 6:18).

Barriers to Giving Thanks

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 13:42:26 PST

Throughout this month, on the Grow Barefoot Facebook page, I have been posting and commenting on verses from the book of Psalms that mention the giving of thanks. To mention just a few…

Honoring Him with thanksgiving

Repeatedly thanking Him

Thanking for His goodness, His justice, His nearness

Singing our thanks

These are the ideals. Reality is, though, that sometimes giving thanks is hard, painful, and even impossible. Jerry Tharp, my church pastor, shared some barriers to giving thanks in his sermon this past Sunday and as we proceed through this week of Thanksgiving I want to pass them along to you with some of my own commentary added to his. My hope is to break down some of these barriers and experience the freedom and thankfulness that God desires for us, not just this weekend but all year long.

Attitude of Entitlement: Pride tells us that we deserve what we have. After all, we’ve worked hard and earned it. But James tells us, “Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.’ Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.’ As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil.” (James 4:13-16)

To Battle this Barrier: Honest and sometimes brutal self-examination of who we are outside of God’s grace and the benefits we have received because of Him.

To Read More About this Topic:

Who's in Charge Here?

Who are We? Who is He?

Inability to see God’s blessings: Judas walked with Jesus just like the other disciples. He saw the same miracles, heard the same words, walked the same roads. Yet when the opportunity came, he betrayed Jesus whereas the other disciples served Him until their deaths. All but one even died as a martyr. I don’t know why some people look around and marvel at all of the wonders of God whereas others couldn’t care less.

To Battle this Barrier: Genuinely ask God to give you eyes to see Him and the work He does through you and in you.

To Read More About this Topic:

Whatcha Gonna Do About It?

You Know Him. Have You Seen Him?

Do You See the Miracle?

Who are We? Who is He?

Heaviness of Heart: In our current culture, this one is probably the most common. Death. Disease. Rejection. Disaster. It is easy to let a heavy heart overwhelm us in this sin-laden society. “I am worn out from groaning; all night long I flood my bed with weeping and drench my couch with tears.” (Psalm 6:6) Yet later in that same Psalm, “The LORD has heard my cry for mercy; the LORD accepts my prayer. All my enemies will be ashamed and dismayed; they will turn back in sudden disgrace.” (Psalm 6:9-10) This kind of structure is common throughout the Psalms where David pours out his sorrows to God and by the end of the Psalm, he is comforted and his joy has been restored. “Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.” (Psalm 55:22)

To Battle this Barrier: Do what you know is right through prayer and praise. Your emotions will almost always follow. You can control your actions whereas emotions often control you.

To Read More About this Topic:

You Complete Me

Entrapped in Fear

Extreme Busyness: This one plagues us all this time of year. I had every moment of my day planned out yesterday as I do today, and still everything probably won’t get done. I know the demands for my time will increase as we enter December. But we should be reminded of Mary and Martha. Whereas Martha was focused on all of the preparations that had to be done for mealtime, Mary sat at the feet of Jesus. Jesus response was, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42)

To Battle this Barrier: Let go of some stuff. Find strength through realizing what is important and what isn’t. Listen to the words of God when He says, “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)

To Read More About this Topic:

What's Missing?

Mom Won

Life Changing, Run-of-the-Mill, Kind of Moment

Envy: Home, car, job, spouse, clothes, whatever. Comparing what we have to what someone else has is a spiritual dead-end. Envy puts the focus on what you don’t have instead of recognizing the blessing of what you do have. Envy denies the truth that God has granted you with all that you need and many more blessings besides.

To Battle this Barrier: Learn to be content and trust in God’s promised provision. Contentment and trust aren’t natural responses but must be learned through knowledge and experience.

Broken Toys

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 11:15:38 PST

Saturdays. The day to clean the bedrooms. Although my girls usually clean their own bedrooms, sometimes I like to go in and help them do a more thorough cleaning. Together, we go through drawers, toy baskets, and shelves to get everything back in order again. Undoubtedly, there are always broken toys that must be dealt with. I used to keep the broken pieces, thinking I could repair or replace the broken part. If it was irreparable, I would still hold onto the toy; surely it could still be enjoyed without the missing pieces.

A tulip; a recent craft project found broken and hidden
in the corner of the bedroom.

Awhile back my thinking changed. Now when I help my girls clean their room if a toy is broken beyond repair or missing so many pieces it has been rendered useless, I throw it in the trash bag. After using this method a few times I noticed their room is starting to be less cluttered and more fun. I even noticed my girls are less stressed taking care of their room as they have less stuff around them. I also thought, after we finished cleaning their room, this method makes more room for the upcoming Christmas gifts.

As I stuffed some torn dress-up fairy wings into the trash bag this past Saturday, I wondered how many broken pieces we are holding on to in our own lives.

Overlooked for a job promotion.

Criticized by a friend.

Can’t relate with your children.

Unable to make your house payment.

Diagnosed with cancer.

Arguing with your spouse.

I don’t know what broken pieces you have in your life, but I know we all have them because we live in a broken world. We stuff our broken pieces on the shelves of our hearts and minds; we pretend that someday we will repair them or maybe we can still use them as they are.

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand,

that he may lift you up in due time.

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

(1 Peter 5:7-8 NIV)

Just as I threw the broken toys in the trash, we need to throw our broken emotional pieces. Not in the trash but at the feet of Jesus. Cast them on Him. We need to stop thinking we can fix them and trust that He can and will because He cares for us.

Surely he took up our pain
   and bore our suffering,
yet we considered him punished by God,
   stricken by him, and afflicted.
But he was pierced for our transgressions,
   he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was on him,
   and by his wounds we are healed.

(Isaiah 53:4-5 TNIV)

And besides, you never know, God might have something better, something new and fresh, waiting to fill that spot on your shelf once you throw away the broken pieces.

What's Your Response?

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 19:10:45 PST

JESUS’ CLAIM: I am the way, the truth, and the life. (John 14:6)

Perhaps one of Jesus most well-known declarations, this statement is a foundational part of Christianity. When Jesus told the disciples they already knew the way to where He was going, again He was referring back to His teachings throughout John 8-12 that explained the way, the truth, and the life.

The response of THE PHARISEES: They rejected Jesus’ message as truth that had been received from the Father. According to Christ, their rejection revealed them to be children of Satan, the father of lies, rather than children of Abraham (John 8:39-47).

The response of JOHN: John may have been a little awe-struck and dumbfounded during the Last Supper, as were the rest of the disciples. He eventually figured this all out though because the very first chapter of his later book, First John, outlines that Jesus is the life (1 John 1:1-4), the truth (1 John 1:5-8), and the way (1 John 1:7-10), albeit in reverse order of Jesus declaration.

JESUS’ CLAIM: Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. (John 14:9)

The fact that Jesus is the Son of God and one with God the Father is another foundation of the Christian faith. It is also unique to Christianity.

The response of THE PHARISEES: As you’ve already seen, the Pharisees’ responses to the claims of Christ are found in John 8-12. The story of Jesus healing a blind man in chapter nine is seemingly out of place in the midst of these chapters. However, at the end of the story, Jesus says, “You have now seen him [the Son of Man]; in fact, he is the one speaking with you…For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind” (John 9:37, 39). The Pharisees defensive response shows they knew His comment was directed towards them. He went on to say, “If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains” (John 9:41).

The response of PHILIP: Jesus made this claim in response to Philip’s statement, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us” (John 14:8). Like John, we don’t know how Philip responded to Jesus’ answer at that time but we do know through his later ministry that he did come to know Jesus was the Son of God and one with the Father. Much of Philip’s ministry is recorded in Acts, chapter eight.

· He proclaimed the Christ in Samaria. (Acts 8:5)

· He performed miraculous signs, including casting out demons and healing people. (Acts 8:6-7, 13)

· He preached the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ. (Acts 8:12, 40)

· He traveled where God said to travel. (Acts 8:26)

· He witnessed to a stranger. (Acts 8:27-38)

· He accurately taught the entire Word of God. (Acts 8:31-35)

· He baptized believers. (Acts 8:36-38)

· He was miraculously transported to a new place. (Acts 8:39-40)

· He is next mentioned 20-25 years later, still faithfully preaching the Word of God. (Acts 21:8)

What about you? What do you do with these claims of Jesus? Do you, like John, recognize Him as the way, the truth, and the life? Do you, like Philip, see the Father when you see Jesus and accomplish great things for the kingdom? Or, like the Pharisees, are you spiritually blind to the truth of Jesus’ message? The fact that Jesus took on human flesh and came to earth to die and resurrect, thereby conquering death, is the distinguishing fact between Christianity and all other religions. Whatcha gonna do about it?

Whatcha Gonna Do About It? , the sister article to this one, focuses on similar claims by Jesus in John, chapter 13.

Who's the Enemy?

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 13:40:13 PST

The Civil War was by far the bloodiest conflict our country has ever fought. Not only was the death rate the highest of any of our nation’s struggles but it exceeded the sum of the deaths of all other American wars from the Revolutionary War through modern times. Although the methods of warfare contributed to the high death rate, one factor stands alone as the greatest cause of the phenomenal loss of life. Every drop of blood that was spilled was American blood. When we count the death toll, there is no “them” and “us.” Whether the uniform was gray or blue, whether the flag was Union or Confederate, as brother fought against brother, they were all American.

Our family visited the site of the Battle of Fredericksburg in Virginia. I was touched by the story of Richard Kirkland, a 19 year old Confederate sergeant. The Union army had been defeated but many soldiers lay wounded on the battlefield and those who were still alive remained in their battle positions. Sergeant Kirkland could not bear the sound of the wounded crying out for aid and relief. Placing his life in danger, he took canteens of water and offered drinks to the hurting men. Union soldiers began firing on him but the firing ceased as they realized his actions were from a heart of compassion rather than malice.

Are we fighting a civil war within the church? The battle is now believer against believer as arguments are made and people are hurt. People leave churches. Believers lose the passion of serving their Savior.

Contemporary music vs. traditional

Programs and activities vs. Bible studies and prayer meetings

Casual dress vs. formal

He said vs. she said

It’s always been done this way vs. new and different

My ministry vs. your ministry

Issues such as these pull us away from the real enemy; “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.” (Ephesians 6:12 NIV)

We are all wounded soldiers lying on a spiritual battlefield. Shouldn’t we be offering drinks of water to our fallen brothers rather than firing fatal shots? After all, fellow believers aren’t the real enemy and by firing another verbal blow or spreading another slanderous story we may find ourselves serving within the ranks of the true enemy.

~~Contemporary music vs. traditional~~ WORSHIP

~~Programs and activities vs. Bible studies and prayer meetings~~ LEARN

~~Casual dress vs. formal~~ ATTEND

~~He said vs. she said~~ SHARE

~~It’s always been done this way vs. new and different~~ DO

~~My ministry vs. your ministry~~ SERVE

“…Whoever is not against us is for us. I tell you the truth, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to Christ will certainly not lose his reward. And if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a large millstone tied around his neck.” (Mark 9:40-42 NIV)

LATER ADDITION: After I wrote this article, I kept thinking about and being exposed to spiritual attacks. Click here to read a follow-up article with some more thoughts on this subject.

Whatcha Gonna Do About It?

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 19:08:27 PST

As I taught through John 13-16 I noticed an interesting reoccurrence. In those four chapters, Jesus makes claims regarding Himself and the hearers have differing responses. Simply, non-believers reject His claims whereas the disciples accept His claims. Their unique responses dictate their eternal destinations.

JESUS’ CLAIM: He gave up His place in heaven, died, and rose again. (John 13:3-17)

Our first example isn’t a verbal claim made by Jesus; rather, it is a claim made by His actions. As seen through the acted parable of washing the disciples’ feet, Jesus gave up His position in heaven, came to earth, died, resurrected, and ascended into heaven. My article, “So What?”, speaks more of this event and is by far the most widely read article on this blog.

The response of JUDAS ISCARIOT: Although Jesus’ sacrifice was made for all, Judas chose to reject it. He subsequently left the Passover meal (aka Last Supper) and went to the Jewish leaders in order to betray Jesus. (John 13:2, 20-21, 30 et al)

The response of PETER: Although Peter found Jesus’ act hard to accept at first (John 13:6, 9), he eventually accepted it and went on to become one of the church’s greatest preachers. He would later write in 1 Peter 5:5, “All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’” The cloth in Peter’s verse refers to the white scarf or apron of slaves and would have been reminiscent of the cloth that Jesus wrapped around Himself while washing Peter’s feet.

JESUS’ CLAIM: Where I am going you cannot come. (John 8:21 & 13:33)

The response of THE PHARISEES: In John 8:21-24 Jesus told the Jewish leaders they would die in their sins because they did not believe that He was I AM. In other words, they didn’t believe that He was God in the flesh.

The response of THE DISCIPLES: In John 13:36, after telling the disciples they could not go where Jesus was going, He promised them they would follow later. In chapter 14, He proceeds to tell them He will return and take them to be with Him forever. To this day, we still await that second appearing.

To answer the title question for myself, I chose to accept His words as truth. You can read my story of salvation here and here. What about you? Have you made that decision in your life? I'd love to read your response to the claims of Jesus in the comments below or answer any questions you may have.

What's Your Response?, the sister article to this one, deals with similar claims by Jesus in John 14.

Settling for Good; Missing the Best

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 13:41:31 PDT

3:00pm. I turned into the parking lot of my daughters’ one-day-a-week home school group and drove to my spot at the end of the car pick-up line. As I sat there waiting, more mom-filled vehicles lined up behind mine while other parents walked out of the building having already retrieved their children inside. One mom exited with her two small children and as she walked toward the car I realized my car would be blocking her when she was ready to back out of her parking spot.

Moments ticked by as I alternated my attention between watching her buckle her two little ones into their car seats and watching for the assistant director to come out of the building with her walkie-talkie and start the car line moving. Would the line start moving in time for me to pull my car forward before the mom was ready to put her car in reverse and make her exit? She buckled one child, no sign of the assistant director. As she buckled child #2, the assistant director came out and started speaking children’s names into her walkie-talkie so they could meet their parent by the curb. Whew, good. The line was slowly creeping into action and I should be able to move out of the way soon.

The timing was perfect as the mom opened her own driver’s side door and sat down while I gently let off the brake just enough to allow my car to pull forward a few feet. I watched in my rear-view mirror to see if the car in line behind me waited for the mom to back out of her parking spot before pulling forward herself. I shook my head as I watched the mom in the car behind me pull forward without a moment’s hesitation. Busily texting on her cell phone, she was oblivious to the plight of the mom with the two small children waiting to exit her parking spot.

I immediately thought of myself. I often am so focused on one activity that I am oblivious to the needs of those around me or to God calling me in a new direction in life.

The mom behind me in line was doing nothing wrong; her text may have been an important reminder or a considerate word of encouragement to a friend. Likewise, several times lately I have found myself doing good things – lunch with a friend, teaching a Bible study, writing a new book. It would have been easy and comfortable to stay focused on each of those things. However, God called me away to something more important for that moment in time – visiting a sick relative, starting a new study with a new group of women, helping a friend at work. The object of my attention may have been good and valid but it wasn’t the best that God had for me at each moment.

I don’t want to be so focused on the “good” that I miss out on the “best.” I don’t want to be so used to the “ordinary” that I am oblivious to the “extraordinary.” I don’t want to be satisfied with anthills of ministry when God is calling me to move mountains.

O LORD my God, you have performed many wonders for us.

Your plans for us are too numerous to list.

You have no equal.

If I tried to recite all your wonderful deeds,

I would never come to the end of them.

You take no delight in sacrifices or offerings.

Now that you have made me listen, I finally understand —

you don't require burnt offerings or sin offerings.

Then I said, "Look, I have come.

As is written about me in the Scriptures:

I take joy in doing your will, my God,

for your instructions are written on my heart."

Psalm 40:5-8, NLT

Exhort? Teach? Admonish? Ugh.

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 19:02:43 PDT

“OK… Do that one more time, just your left hand… No, this note, then that one… OK, now start.”

I’m sitting in the sanctuary of my church, catching up on some work while waiting for my daughters’ piano lessons. The teacher takes each girl one step at a time through timing, accidentals, the mood of the piece, melody, sitting and hand position, and all the other factors that must combine in unison to create a beautiful piece.

It’s interesting to see how the music teacher’s style changes as she has finished with my oldest daughter who has taken lessons for a few years and begins working with one of my younger daughters who has only taken for a few months. She patiently meets each student where they are at in their musical abilities and helps them develop to the next level.

I am reminded of how we, as Christians, are to help one another grow spiritually.

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly,

teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom…”

(Colossians 3:16 ESV)

“But exhort one another every day,

as long as it is called "today,"

that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.”

(Hebrews 3:13 ESV)

Exhorting.

Teaching.

Admonishing.

They may sound like really big concepts that can only truly be done by a trained professional. They aren’t really that big of an idea though.

Come along side.

Be a friend.

Speak a word of truth offered in love.

Say a prayer.

Meet them where they’re at.

What impact has a fellow believer made in your life by taking the time to invest in you? How can you likewise invest in someone else?

"Chayil." "God bless you."

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 12:26:58 PDT

“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.”

Proverbs 31:10-12

One single word in this verse has transformed my image of who we are, not only as wives, but as women.

Noble – Capable – Intelligent – Virtuous –

Good – Excellent – Worthy

Although these are all adjectives any of us would take as a compliment if it was used to describe us, none of them fully capture the meaning of the original Hebrew word. The Hebrew word translated here as noble, virtuous and excellent is chayil (khah-yil). Even today, people of the Jewish faith refer to this passage as “Eshet Chayil,” or “A Woman of Valor.” A woman of valor is perhaps the most accurate has become my favorite translation of this familiar passage.

Chayil was most often used in the context of a war or battle. Traditionally, it has been the role of a man to fight for and defend his country or his homeland. The Old Testament is full of accounts of the Israelite men leaving their homes to go to battle. Over and over they are described as being chayil. In the same way, a Chayil Woman fights for and defends her home. She protects it from invading negative influences and organizes those under her so that it runs smoothly and calmly. A Chayil Woman is strong, mighty, and efficient. She is valiant and virtuous. But, and this is a very important point, she is all of these things alongside her husband, never in opposition to him.

We have in Scripture a beautiful story of a Chayil Woman. Of the four times in the Old Testament that this word is used to describe women, only once does it refer to a specific woman and that is Ruth.

A complete look at the story of Ruth shows her to be a woman of wisdom. The application of wisdom in daily life is a trademark of a Chayil Woman and one we will look at in further detail later on. Ruth’s life was made prosperous (please understand that word does not always have a financial implication) by her wise choices.

Going back to Proverbs 31:10, what is the next thing we see about our Chayil Woman?

What else do we see in Scripture that is more valuable than rubies? See Proverbs 8:11.

Does that amaze anyone else like it does me? We just looked at Ruth and realized the impact that wise choices made on her life. The very next thing we see is that a wife of chayil character is worth more than rubies, just like wisdom!

What is the significance of being compared to rubies? In our society, when we think of the most valuable gemstone, we immediately think of diamonds. But, just as the value of wisdom and the value of a good wife are not recognized by our society, neither is the value of a ruby. According to a jeweler friend of mine, a ruby of gemstone quality can be worth more than a diamond of the same size, and it is definitely rarer.

Wisdom and a Chayil Woman are both…

…of inestimable value

…extremely rare

…a source of life

…good

…a blessing from the Lord

What is the appropriate response of a husband to a wife who has these qualities in her life? See Proverbs 31:11.

When there is a balance of the wife being a Chayil Woman and the husband recognizing and respecting that quality in her, then, WOW, a marriage can be built that is beautiful and worthy of being compared to the future marriage relationship between Christ and His bride, the church.

Like a flawless ruby, do you view yourself as being of inestimable value? If you don’t view yourself that way, will you accept that you are and begin to ask God to reveal the jewel He created you to be?

Above are excerpts from one of the lessons in my Bible study book "Seven Roles, One Woman: You Expect Me To Do All That?" To purchase a complete copy, please visit Amazon.com. The final question is from the Discussion Questions for this day's lesson; please join the discussion by leaving your comments below!

That Name

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 12:28:06 PDT

If you look at the stats on my blog it is no secret that the articles which begin with a cute little story or make a clever analogy receive the most hits. Everyone likes a good story. My stories come from my own experiences and something in each experience reveals a truth about God that I decide to write about. This time, though, I’m just feeling led to write about a study I did with my Sunday morning class of women. Something about the urgency of the times we are living in is prompting my spirit to get as much information out as possible about the truth of God’s Word.

If you are a long time reader of my blog, you may remember that I am teaching through John 13-17 on Sunday mornings. You can read some of the articles about that study here. Jesus refers to His Name ten times in these chapters, however, when we got to John 15:21, I sensed the need to stop and do an intermissive study on the name of Jesus. Listed below are things we learned that believers can do in the name of Jesus. Thanks to Blue Letter Bible, if you hold the cursor over the reference you can read any of the listed verses.

SALVATION is offered through His name and only through His name

Baptism (Matthew 28:19, Acts 2:38, 10:48, 19:5, 22:16)
Confession, repentance & forgiveness of sins
(Luke 24:47; Acts 10:43, 22:16; 2 Timothy 2:19; 1 John 2:12)
Become children of God (John 1:12)
Believe (John 2:23; 1 John 3:23, 5:13)
Not condemned (John 3:18)
Spirit indwells & teaches (John 14:26; Acts 2:38)
Salvation (Acts 2:21, 4:12; Romans 10:13; 1 Corinthians 6:11)
Extended to the Gentiles (Acts 9:14-16, 10:48, 15:14-18; Romans 1:5, 15:9)
Grace & apostleship (Romans 1:5)

The Believer can PERFORM POWERFUL ACTS through His name

Prophesy (Matthew 7:22, James 5:10)
Drive out demons (Matthew 7:22; Mark 9:38, 16:17; Luke 9:49, 10:17; Acts 16:18)
Miracles (Matthew 7:22; John 10:25; Acts 3:6, 4:30)
Speak in new tongues (Mark 16:17)
Have power through prayer (John 14:13-14, 15:16, 16:23-26; 1 Corinthians 5:4)
Faith in His name enables powerful acts (Acts 3:16)
Do everything in His name (Colossians 3:17)
Speak the Word & prophesy (James 5:10)
Pray for & anoint the sick (James 5:14)

The Believer can REACH OUT TO OTHERS in His name

Give a cup of cold water to a little one (Matthew 10:42; Mark 9:41)
Welcome a little child (Matthew 18:5; Mark 9:37; Luke 9:48)
Two or three come together (Matthew 18:20)
Unity (1 Corinthians 1:2, 1:10, 5:4)
Go out into the world. (3 John 1:7)

We have an ABUNDANT LIFE through His name

Hope (Matthew 12:21)
Blessed (Matthew 21:9, 23:39; Mark 11:9; Luke 13:35, 19:38; John 12:13)
Protected (John 17:11-12)
Life (John 20:31)
Stengthened (Acts 4:7-10)
Confident, bold and lack fear (Acts 9:27-28)
Thankful in everything (Ephesians 5:20)

Believers will endure PERSECUTION because of His name

People will leave homes & families (Matthew 19:29)
Counted worthy to suffer for Him (Acts 5:40-41)
Risk our lives (Acts 15:26)
Persevere & endure hardships (Revelation 2:3)
Remain true & don’t renounce our faith (Revelation 2:13)
Keep the word and not denied His name (Revelation 3:8)

How Believers VIEW HIS NAME

Fear & honor (Acts 19:17)
Praise & glorify (Romans 15:9; 2 Thessalonians 1:12; Hebrews 13:15; Revelation 15:4)
Bow before Him (Philippians 2:9-11)
Authority (2 Thessalonians 3:6)
Reverence (Revelation 11:18)

Some More of My Story

noreply@blogger.com (Kathi@growbarefoot.com) — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 13:23:03 PDT

For many people who “grew up in the church,” their testimony is a two-part story. Many children accept Jesus as their Savior. Later, as young adults, those same children often go through a time when they question and perhaps even rebel against what they have been taught. I believe this period, usually in the late teens and early twenties, is a time of decision. The young adult is deciding to either accept what they have been taught as their own beliefs or to reject the teachings and follow their own path. You can read the first part of my story here: Sylvester & Tweety Bird. This article is about the second part of my story:

Time passed and I continued to grow, both physically and spiritually. However, I reached a point where I became bored with church, God, and the Bible. I moaned at the same old stories I had heard over and over through years of Sunday School and Christian high school. Other activities and interests started looking more interesting and I spent my late teen-age and early adult years in a spiritually dark place.

As the end of my college years approached I sensed God calling to me, trying to pull me out of the pit I was in. I knew I wanted out but I was still leery of religion as I had come to know it. However, the Spirit’s persistence and the logic within my own head won out in the end. The God of creation could not be a boring God. The God who enacted a plan thousands of years ago, prophesied that plan’s end, and has carried it out thus far, could not be a boring God. The God who would give His only Son to be born of a virgin, die on a cross for the sins of all mankind, and resurrect, thereby conquering death, could not be a boring God. I determined I would seek after the God of those things.

Despite many gifted and dedicated pastors and teachers, some of whom might actually be reading this blog, I came to realize I was responsible for my own spiritual growth. I believed every Word of Scripture was absolutely true and wouldn’t be included in His Book if it didn’t serve a purpose, not only at the time it was written but for us today as well. So began an amazing journey of studying the truth of God’s Word.

Through this journey God is bringing me along one step at a time. In the beginning, my studies were done between God and myself. Then, God called me to teach. I would study on my own at home and teach studies by other authors at church. Later, God called me to start sharing some of the lessons He had been teaching me in the privacy of my own home. As the journey progressed, God led me to start writing the studies down so other people could teach them. With the publication of my first Bible study, “Seven Roles, One Woman: You Expect Me To Do All That?” I have come one step further in the journey I believe God created for my life. At this point I look back in awe of how God has worked in my life and I look forward in eager expectation of completing the journey.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge Him,
and He will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:5-6