Growing in God's Wisdom

What I've learned from hot rods

2013-06-08T01:08:00.001-05:00

The men of Heart of a Craftsman have been busy again ministering to boys from the Tulsa Boys Home during the summer hot rod camp! I am always amazed at the ways God teaches me...here's some things I've learned from hot rods recently

Hot rods are shiny...we are to shine

In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16 NIV84)

Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever. (Daniel 12:3 NIV84)

Hot rod builders are meticulous in the details...Jesus is perfecting the details in our lives

Do you see those 3 bumps in the interior? It is a minor detail that takes time to perfect, but the builders did not overlook that detail. I watched them working on the upholstery...they kept working until it was perfected. The welding (that most people won't even see) is very detailed and my husband works hard to get it just right.
Jesus will perfect our lives and work on the details too! The Holy Spirit works on those 'little things' that no one sees...He knows because He built us. What we may think is unimportant is very important to a builder!

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.... (Hebrews 12:2a NIV84)

Builders have a plan...see the finished car and keep it in mind

Heart of a crafstman builders do not give up! Even when they are working on little sleep and it seems like the project will not get done in time, they persevere and keep the finished car in mind.

God has a plan for our lives and He never gives up on us!

For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11

God is the master builder...He made us and knows us

O Lord, you have searched me

and you know me.

You know when I sit and when I rise;

you perceive my thoughts from afar.

You discern my going out and my lying down;

you are familiar with all my ways.

Before a word is on my tongue

you know it completely, O Lord.

You hem me in—behind and before;

you have laid your hand upon me.

For you created my inmost being;

you knit me together in my mother's womb.

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;

your works are wonderful,

I know that full well.

My frame was not hidden from you

when I was made in the secret place.

When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,

your eyes saw my unformed body.

All the days ordained for me

were written in your book

before one of them came to be.

Search me, O God, and know my heart;

test me and know my anxious thoughts.

See if there is any offensive way in me,

and lead me in the way everlasting.

Psalm 139:1-5, 13-16, 23, 24 NIV84

cracking eggs?

2013-03-28T15:00:00.000-05:00

Do you ever feel fragile? Like an egg about to crack?

I have the honor of serving in 'the loop' with the 4th-6th graders. Last year about this time, Alison, one of the leaders, had a game prepared that was fun for the kids...but it spoke to me. Since Easter is near, she brought eggs and had each student try to crack the egg using two fingers and then try with their whole hand....no one was able to break an egg either way.

You would think that an egg would break...if I drop one cooking it always breaks! When we had each taken a turn trying to crush the egg with our hands, we finally gave up and cracked it on something sharp in the trash can to prove that it was not a boiled egg. (Go ahead and try this yourself...you know you want to!)

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 2 Corinthians 4:8-9

We all assumed that the egg would easily break...like we sometimes assume about ourselves (or others) that we are weak, frail, fragile. But God's marvelous creation of the egg shell surprised us in that it wouldn't break under pressure.

He created us as to be strong and durable when we have Christ in us-the hope of glory! (See Col 1:27) We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves. 2 Corinthians 4:7

We will not 'crack' or fall apart when we trust in Him to hold us together...the one who trust in Him will never be put to shame(see 1 Peter 2:6)

He is before all things, and in him all things hold together Colossians 1:17

Today, if you feel that you are cracking and falling apart because of the weight of this world...reach out to your creator! He made you and knows what you can withstand and He will be with you (check out Isaiah 43:2). He gives rest to the weary!

Take courage in the strength of an egg's shell and know that His power is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). When you get tired of trying to withstand the pressure in your own strength, rely on Him- ...the weakness of God is stronger than human strength 1 Corinthians 1:25 b

From the mouth of babes

2012-06-26T07:30:00.003-05:00

I always have questions. Sometimes I get answers, sometimes I don't. This morning as I was bringing some of my questions again to the Lord and seeking wisdom and understanding I was reminded of a conversation yesterday with my 5 year old.

Z enjoying the turtle at the pool

We were driving home from the pool and 'Wait and See' came on the radio prompting many questions from her. The first one almost a statement- He's not finished with me?! In that discussion somehow we got to talking about the trinity.

We've talked about it before and she's sort of just accepted the explanation I've offered (which came from her Life Kids Sunday School curriculum.) Yesterday she kept saying 'Momma I just don't understand'.

I reassured her that it's a tough topic and kept trying to explain a different way, triangle, etc but she kept asking. She finally said 'Momma I don't understand right now but when I get to heaven I will.'

Wow!!! The faith of a child. I told her she was right and recalled 1 Corinthians 13:12
Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.now we see in part then we shall see in full. I told her some things we just have to trust what God says-that's faith-saying I don't understand something but I believe God's word.

Now this morning her faith has me realizing that I may not get the answers to my questions here on earth. I may not understand the verses I read about the questions I have. But I do have the hope that one day when I get to heaven I shall know fully!

Perspective

2012-04-07T06:02:00.001-05:00

I smiled when I saw our 'tomb' this morning. It is a reminder to me of the joy we will have in the morning as the girls discover that their resurrection cookie is hollow in the middle just as the grave was empty on that Sunday morning long ago!!
The thought occurred to me that Jesus' first followers would have still felt such sorrow at seeing their teacher's tomb before they knew the whole story. Their vision of it would have been one of dread-I can only imagine how discouraged they might have been. Even though Jesus talked to them several times about what was going to take place to fulfill the plan that was laid out from the beginning of time, they just didn't get it! I am so like His original followers-I wonder if you can relate?
In the midst of discouraging and desperate situations what is your perspective? Do you look around and only see half the story...see death and feel dread like the first followers may have on that Saturday? How can we learn to look past the current circumstances and believe that joy will come? BELIEVE Jesus' words:
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 NIV84)
The disciples were devastated and Mary Magdalene was crying as she approached the tomb (John 20:13). But hearing her Savior's voice made this psalm true for her!
weeping may remain for a night,
but rejoicing comes in the morning. (Psalm 30:5b NIV84)

Even when things don't go as we have expected or hoped we can be sure that God has a good plan for us.
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. (Jeremiah 29:11-13 NIV84)
When we hunt for Easter eggs this is the verse I've shared with my girls. We will find our Hope in Jesus when we seek him with the enthusiasm of a child searching for eggs. Each promise we discover is treasure-even more valuable than their candy filled eggs.

Lent

2012-02-29T06:28:00.000-06:00

In the past I have thought of Lent as a "religious" observance. This year I realized it can also be a 'relationship' observance. So, I have been observing Lent by drawing closer to God-building the relationship by His grace...not just following rules. My friend's husband has a great Lent workbook on his blog that goes over the basics of Lent if you've never even heard of it before. I will be using the reading selections he suggests. I will be also be using http://www.youversion.com/ -there are several Lenten reading plans to choose from.

Last week I also found another resource that I may use during this time. A blogger referenced the book A Place at the Table. There are many resources with the book...and I wish I had seen it before now as it would be great to do with a group. I watched this video of the first session

Session 1 - Beginning from Chris Seay on Vimeo.

Just from what I've discovered this morning the concept of the book is to eat a diet similar to a poor person in another country for 40 days. Using the time you save preparing simple foods to feast on the Word of God-the Bread of Life. Then using the grocery savings from eating simple foods (and not eating out) to support ministries that care for the needy. We sponsor Nazia in India, so if we participate (our family may choose to do a few days or a week) we would eat rice, potatoes, onions, garlic, bananas, chicken, fish, vegetables, lentils, garbanzo beans (chickpeas). Lots of spices! The info sheet provides a list of common foods for different countries-so you could choose a country that you have a heart for (or that has good staple foods:).

It's so neat to me how God works out little details and confirms things He's teaching me. Last week I just about had a fit (similar to one my 5 year old would throw) because I didn't get to eat where I wanted (the new Mexican joint in town). That wasn't the first time I've seen that food does drive my behavior. When I wake up I go straight for the double mocha cappuccino...instead of the Living Water. So I've prayerfully decided to drink no liquid but water (by His grace) for this season. I'm sure I'll be healthier and less caffeine addicted:) We've made it through the first week!

There were many things in the intro video and the daily devo videos that have tied in to what I'm learning in our ladies' Bible study-Jesus the One and Only (and I love that they are both on location in the Holy Land). One of the lessons last week was about the temptation of Jesus-and we drew similarities to Eve's temptation in the garden. The enemy knows that this is an area we are tempted. I have had Made to Crave sitting in my 'to-read' pile for a few months (I will return it Jess:) It is about how we run to food for comfort instead of to our Comforter. I think I haven't read it because I know I need to!

I am excited to learn something new and grow closer to Jesus during this time. It seems like Easter always sneaks up on me and I don't feel prepared- personally and in teaching my girls what it is really about. I'm praying that this season will be different as I lay aside the distractions on the world (no facebook for me for a few weeks!) and focus on the Word. The Bible study and the lenten readings are all interwoven and will all end at the cross right around Easter. The intro video and the readings have referenced Matthew 5 often-aligning with the verses I am hoping to memorize. I can't wait to see what will be revealed to me as I study scripture....would you join me? Leave a comment to let us know!!! It's not too late to start right where you are and use this season to draw closer to God by spending time in His Word. He will lead you...just follow Him-don't feel obligated to follow anyone else-just what He calls you to do!

And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-11

Worship

2012-02-22T10:00:00.001-06:00

Each time I get on the blogger site to write a new post, I inevitably get sidetracked by looking at all the blogs to which I subscribe. Today's reading (or my procrastinating??) was worth it as I found a post I want to share from His Mercy Is New. (Click on explanation below to read the article)
I love this explanation of why we raise our hands in worship. As a momma of two young children, God has taught me so much about my relationship with Him through mothering. I do so need Him, even more than my girls may need me! I have in just the last few years found freedom to raise my hands no matter what situation I am in...no matter who is around. I've never wanted it to be 'showy' or just become habit. I remember a few years ago our pastor explained it as showing humility. I had never thought about that, but it does humble me to step out of my comfort zone and raise my hands in worship to the only One worthy of worship. Psalm 63:4 I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands.

Memorize the Mount

2012-02-05T00:55:00.000-06:00

After finding the fun A to Z challenge for my girls, I considered starting something challenging for me...like memorizing an entire chapter of the Bible. I enjoy reading Ann Voskamp's blog

So when I saw her challenge to memorize the mount (Matthew 5) I thought that would fit well! I downloaded the free memory booklet and started digging in. It didn't start as easy as I thought-but it's getting better now. The girls are even saying the verses with me now. If you are up for the challenge the free booklet listed above will get Matthew 5,6, and 7 hidden in your heart.
I also want to count 1000 gifts...to cultivate a thankful heart. Sometimes I feel overwhelmed by the many opportunities to do good things (like memorize and count gifts and read encouraging blogs). I don't want to 'make rules' for myslef about doing these things. I want to do them in freedom...but it's so easy for me to slip back into works and legalism.

A and B...

2012-02-04T23:54:00.000-06:00

The girls and I started this fun A to Z scripture memorization a few weeks ago.

It has been so fun to write the words on our mirrors and say them with our meals. Both girls (and their momma) are hiding God's word in their hearts. It is amazing to me that even Aleigha can say all of the verses so far.

One of the 'rewards' I've offered is to take a video of them reciting their verse...what little princess could resist seeing a video of herself? So here they are (be warned...there may be mouths full of food...we just do this as part of our everyday life:)):

It's not too late to join us on this fun alphabet adventure! We are learning our "C" verse now and there is a new verse every other week. Comment below to let me know you are joing us!!! It's a great way to practice Dueteronomy 6:5-9 Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.

I was also blessed to win a scripture verse pack from Versability that has each of the scriptures on a business card in a cute little pack that is easy to carry around and review!!! I was so excited to open the package-it came right around my birthday and it was a great gift...there was even a little bonus set that had personalized scriptures with my name on it! How cool is that:) There is a kid's set now that is on a spiral notebook...maybe I'll win one of those too-Zaleigh would LOVE it!!!

A to Z

2012-01-02T20:31:00.000-06:00

I found this A to Z memory challenge last week on a blog I follow.

The name of the challege struck me since I have a Z(Zaleigh) and an A(Aleigha). So to memorize scripture by the alphabet sounded like a fun challenge for me and my girls! I new verse every other Monday-and it's family freindly!

Zaleigh, my precious 5 year old, wrote our first verse on "explosion paper" and excitedly hung it on the door so that we can read it when we go to school or leave the house...her sweet idea:)

A: As for me and my household we will serve the Lord Joshua 24:15b

We are going to do this!!! I am amazed at how quickly even little ones can learn God's Word. It is amazing at how it is just tucked away in our hearts and He can call it to mind when we need the Word. Would you join us???

Anticipation

2011-12-28T09:49:00.001-06:00

We have friends visiting from Colorado this weekend. We have been so excited to see them....just can't wait...and TODAY is the day! The timing is perfect for me, it has given me something to look forward to so that the post Christmas blues don't hit too hard.

Yesterday I had the opportunity to prepare for their arrival-thanks to a wonderful friend playing with my girls so I could shop and clean!!! I was thinking about preparation and anticipation...and realized that we all have something to prepare for and anticipate-an event that can give our hearts hope and great joy!

Our last advent verse...

During the season of advent we (not so) patiently counted down the days until Christmas by reading a verse each day. We anticipated all that Christams would hold-the celebration of Jesus' birthday is so much fun! Jesus' coming as an infant was prophesied long before He came and yet most of the people of His time didn't know He was born. The scriptures also tell us that He will come back. In Matthew 24 Jesus tells us much about this (read it if you haven't :).

For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage each other with these words. 1 Thessaloninas 4:16-18

HE came at Christmas and HE is coming back!!! Are we preparing for HIS return in the same fashion that we prepared for Christmas, or with the same enthusiasm that we have when friends visit?
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. Revelation 19:7

We are His bride....Let's be ready! I have to be honest and say that I'm not sure what all that means for my life yet...I guess the preparation is probably diffeernt for each person. When we fully trust in Jesus and have saving faith by His grace, He will lead us individually in the preparation process. We abide in Him, He directs our paths to 'work out our salvation...(not in our strength) for it is God Who is all the while working in us (energizing and creating the power and desire) to will and work for His good pleasure and satisfation and delight.' (See Philippians 2:12-13 in NIV and AMP)

Unlike Advent when we count down to Christmas, we don't know exactly when He will return. But we do have some signs to watch for and some encouragement to be ready:

Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.
So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. Matthew 24:42,44

“Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it is near, right at the door. Matthew 24:32-33

So be on your guard; I have told you everything ahead of time. Mark 13:23
If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. Mark 13:36 (This has me thinking of You Gotta Get Up)

He tells us so much in His word-such great and precious promises. Here is one to think about throughout this day as we anticiapte His return:

They will enter Zion with singing;
everlasting joy will crown their heads.
Gladness and joy will overtake them,
and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
Isaiah 35:10b

WOOHOO!! How can we not look forward to that? Everlasting joy? Yes, please!!! Come, Lord Jesus!!!

Christmas Letdown?

2011-12-26T23:43:00.001-06:00

It started even before Christmas day....at the end of each celebration...when we had to say goodbye. Her sweet question, "momma, when is Christmas over?"

At first I didn't understand her five year old thinking...but then it made sense. To her Christmas was a time to be with family and friends and celebrate....much celebration-school parties, Awana parties and lots of family and friends. She knows why we celebrate...and loves all of it!

He has taken me to the banquet hall, and his banner over me is love. Song of Songs 2:4

When we read the Christmas story Christmas Eve night she asked again-Is Christmas over after tomorrow?

I woke up Christmas morning not feeling well. Our whole family has had a cold for what seems like the past month (we ARE getting better, thank you Jesus!). Despite the lack of sleep from our traditional late night wrapping, I woke up and thought 'this is going to be a good day!!!' I felt joyful all day...even when things didn't go my way...even when I had an overstimulated 2 year old!

When a frustration would arise that might normally steal my joy...I just thought about what the day meant-why we were celebrating. We were blessed to host 4 different celebrations in our home over the last week...that meant 4 times cleaning and cooking. I did it all with joy (unlike some days when it seems like that's all I do...over and over). Why the joy? Because my focus was on what we were celebrating.

So if I choose to celebrate the Hope of Christmas...each day can be Christmas! When I choose to look to Him and live like it's Christmas morning, it is! His gifts never end! His mercies are new each morning! I can wake up expecting something good to happen to me each day!

So, friend, Is Christmas over?

The answer my sweet Z needed to hear is the same for us...NO!! Christmas doesn't ever have to be over! In celebrating Christmas we are celebrating Emmanuel, God with us. And now that He has defeated the enemy and sits at the right hand of God and has sent His Holy Spirit to live in us...He is always with us...so every day can be Christmas!!!

Even though we will soon be packing away the decorations and storing them for next season-the celebration never needs to end. We can stay in awe of the nativity-of Christ humbly coming to us. As I did last year, I will be leaving one nativity scene displayed...to remind me that each day I can have the joy of Christmas because Christ came!

Many times I have had a "Christmas Letdown"...when all that has been anticipated is over. Gifts are all opened, carols all sung, family all back home, decorations put away, and life returns to "normal". This year I will let God use a 5 year old's sweet question to remind me that His gift of Christmas is for each day.

Although we won't have wrapped gifts under the tree to anticipate, we will still have the gift of His presence because of the tree and we can seek Him in anticipation each day!!!

Let's celebrate Christmas today with this precious hymn as a reminder to us and a praise to God!

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow
Blessings all mine with ten thousand beside

Great is Thy faithfulness
Great is They faithfulness
Morning by morning new mercies I see
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided
Great is Thy faithfulneses
Lord unto me!!!!

Gifts Worth Receiving

2011-12-26T22:34:00.000-06:00

I wonder if any of you stood in long lines today to return or exchange a gift? Maybe it was a thoughtful gift, but just the wrong size....or maybe it was not even thoughtful and something you would never use?

Did anyone have the misfortune of hearing a child complain about a gift just given (hopefully an adult wouldn't say it out loud) ? Or a child asking if there were more gifts, as if all they just opened weren't enough?

Thankfully this year, none of the above fits me...but it has before, and very well may again:)

I was thinking...are we like this with the gifts God gives? Trying to exchange it to "make it fit" or complaining that it's not what so and so has?

Ouch, I know....

Hopefully instead of ungrateful kids, you got to see some joy and delight! My girls showed plenty of that this year even though we attempted to scale back on gift giving.

She was sure excited about the book:)

If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! Matthew 7:11 see also Luke 11:13

I find myself still wanting more of God... more of His gifts, His grace, His love and His Holy Spirit. I guess that's not a bad thing- to long for more of Him...but I need to be satisfied with where I am today as I trust Him to mature me and give me His gifts in His timing...

You might have heard Joyce say "I'm not where I need to be, but thank God, I'm not where I used to be. I'm okay and I'm on my way!" I will fix my eyes on Him and trust His promises to perfect my faith-Hebrews 12:2 And I will remember that His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 2 Peter 1:3

I always thank God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. ⁵ For in him you have been enriched in every way—in all your speaking and in all your knowledge— ⁶ because our testimony about Christ was confirmed in you. ⁷ Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. ⁸ He will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. ⁹ God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful. 1 Corinthians 1:4-9

Doesn't that say that as we wait on Jesus to be revealed that we don't lack any spiritual gifts?? Wow!!! He gives each of His children gifts as He sees fit...we need to trust the Giver! We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. Romans 12:6a

Like our children (who may always ask for more), we need to check our motives...When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. James 4:3

Like the prayer we prayed last time in Ephesians...I know this is a prayer that God will answer:
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-11

So there you go...maybe it is okay to ask for MORE of the gifts He so generously bestows on us...

Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete. John 16:24

If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” Matthew 21:22

I hope today you are able to enjoy the gifts that He has given us....trust the Giver...humbly accept what He generously gives!!

A Gift

2011-12-24T15:13:00.000-06:00

I just played an ornery trick on my husband...and I wonder if he will even notice??? (Hey babe, if you are reading this...wait until after Christmas to finish!)

I'm not sure why I can't get the picture to upload right...but you get the idea:)

The floss that I'm putting in his stocking is the same floss that I put in his stocking last year. (No worries my dental friends-he DOES floss, just uses my floss from my drawer!)

I found this floss when I was organizing a few weeks ago...it was never used. A gift that hasn't been opened. I wonder if you have any of these? God used this little package of floss to teach me something.

The verse that popped in my head the day I found the floss is Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. He has given us the kingdom of God and wants us to receive it!

I pray that you know Jesus and have 'opened' His free gift of salvation. Some people don't even get that far--like the debtal floss, they know it's there -God SO LOVED the world that He gave His only Son-but haven't made it reality in their life. Jesus is the best gift. Have you received Him?

What I want to talk about is all the other gifts we have because of Jesus-Righteousness, Peace and Joy!!

Righteousness....Know who you are in Christ!! When you receive Jesus-you are Righteous in Him
^{2 Corinthians 5:21} God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

Peace-In Christ we have peace...in any situation!!!! It is His gift to us...are you receiving it?
John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Joy-
He brought joy as an infant But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Luke 2:10
He teaches us how to have joy: I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete John 15:11 Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete. John 16:24
He is our Joy in any circumstance! Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 9 for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls. 1 Peter 1:8-9

So, friend....I wonder-do you have any unopened gifts? I was thinking about other gifts that we don't use anymore, toys, etc that people have spent money to buy...Do you have any costly gifts that you don't use?
He paid such a great price for us to have eternal life, righteousness, peace, and joy and many times we don't realize the gifts He provides. I'm sure you have put some thought and time into purchasing gifts for your loved ones this Christmas. How would you feel if they didn't even open the gift?

If you have young children-you know that wouldn't happen-you know how excited they are about opening gifts! They don't hold back, not even a little...tear right into the packaging a freely receive what is given to them!!! Maybe we can learn a little from the children:
But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Luke 18:16
And he said: “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 18:3
I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” Mark 10:15

When I read these verses (while searching for "kingdom of God" to find the reference for Romans 14:17) I realized that I need to be more child like in opening and receiving His gifts. There are so many gifts He gives-He is so good (all the time!) For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God. 2 Corinthians 1:20

There are so many gifts in His Word-promises I have yet to uncover. I'm going to end this writing by praying this prayer of Paul for you, dear reader...would you pray if for me too?
I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. ¹⁸ I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, ¹⁹ and his incomparably great power for us who believe. Ephesians 1:17-19(Go read vs 15-23 in your Bible...it's so good!)

How powerful for all God's children to KNOW Him more...What better gift to give to the ones you love than to pray this for them? Merry Christmas!!!

Thankful

2011-11-24T04:52:00.001-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I woke up early this morning thinking of people that I am thankful for. I thought I would write a note to each person...but I kept thinking of so many more people who have been a part of my life...then I couldn't go back to sleep...so I 'm blogging...that's what I do when I can't sleep! Thanksgiving is a time of reflection to me-and I have thought of many wonderful memories this morning.

Every time you cross my mind, I break out in exclamations of thanks to God. Each exclamation is a trigger to prayer. I find myself praying for you with a glad heart. Philippians 1:3 MSG

I am truly thankful for my wonderful husband. He is God's gift to me and I know God has a plan for our lives together. He is a great daddy to our precious girls. I am thankful for my Z and A-and all that I have learned by being a parent.

The next part of the list is random...in the jumbled order that everything piles around in my head...just need to get it out and say - I am thankful!!!

When I woke up, one of my former bosses was on my mind-so after praying for her I began to remember what I learned from her, and thank God for her. I have lost contact with Francine, but a prayer book that she gave me when I graduated college still has a place on my nightstand. I am so thankful that she cared enough about me to tell me the truth. She loved me when I was unlovable and put up with me in my immaturity-never giving up on the young girl who thought she knew it all (but really didn't have a clue). I thought when I went to work for Dr. A that it was to prepare me to be in the medical field-but God had a different purpose for my time there.

Thinking of that time in my life made me think about a co-worker at the office, Joanna. Though we worked together only briefly-she touched my heart and I am thankful for her. She showed me what a happy person is like. She smiled and laughed continually...and her joy was contagious! She taught me a lesson in selfless giving. I will never forget the Christmas present gave me-the bracelet she wore daily. To her it was a reminder of a mission trip she had taken (I think???), but to me it was a reminder to be a giver.

I am thankful for my best girl friends. I have had 4 that have been really special over the years.

My first best friend was Jennifer (AKA refinnej:))-she was my bestie from the time we met in 4th grade and we were close throughout the rest of our school years. I remember summer sleepovers and always being with each other. Her mom was my first "other mom" and we even enjoyed each others' siblings! So many memories-I need to contact her!
My HS best friend was Crystal. She was there for me during a time of chaos in my life-a new school, new living situation-new driver....We always had fun and I still think of all the "coincidences" and things that made us laugh. We occasionally enjoy catching up at lunch (wish we could do it more!) and the best thing is, we can still laugh and enjoy ourselves even if we haven't talked in a year!!
My long distance bestie Corina was there for me as we both learned to navigate the early years of being wives and mothers. She was an answer to prayer (did you know that??) James and I were the 'young ones' at church and I really wanted someone who was on the 'same page' as me...and God provided. I sometimes still get sad that she now lives over 12 hours away with her family...but then I rejoice as I see how God is navigating their lives! I am thankful for you, forever friend!
My newest best friend will be my bestie for years to come! What started off as a 'business' relationship with some interesting discoveries (like that our husbands knew each other and that I am related by marriage to her husband) has turned into a wonderful friendship. I was sad when the 'business' part of the relationship was over-because she took such good care of my girls-but now we are even closer. I am thankful for someone to share hunting seasons with:) I am thankful for her whole extended family being part of our lives. I love knowing that I have someone praying for me-thank you friend!

I am thankful for my sweet cousins! I have lots of them...but I have a special bond with a few precious cousins. It is so great to have someone who knows all about your family and childhood (and still loves you, lol)! If we were all still kids, then I would be seeing you today...I remember big thanksgivings together!! I think about and pray for them often, but I don't make contact enough. I am thankful for their lives-for watching them grow and change (and some become mommies!!!!) and for being able to see God at work in their lives.

I am thankful for my Aunts and Uncles. When you don't have parents on earth, it is comforting to know that their brothers and sisters are here. My family was amazing to me at my wedding-planning, providing and praying for that special day that I will never forget. I appreciate their wisdom and guidance. (And did I mention their kids:)!

I am thankful for my husband's family. His parents accept and love me and I don't feel like an "in-law". We have enjoyed riding motorcycles with a special Aunt and they have loved on our girls.

I am so thankful for my 4 brothers and their families. I love each one so much! The memories of a sibling are not comparable to other relationships. I think about my little brothers so often and enjoy the childhood memories. I am thankful for the care and guidance of my older brothers. I most enjoy being the shortest one in the clan and love a big family hug...I miss my bubbas!!!

I am thankful for my adoptive family. I like to remember watching K as a toddler and having 'date night' with my then boyfriend James. Now I get date night with James and they watch our girls. I am thankful for the mentoring that has occurred over the almost 15 years we've know them. I am thankful that my girls are blessed with grandparents. One of my favorite memories is spending time together while I was pregnant-so glad to have had the guidance and wisdom of someone who had 'been there, done that"!

I am thankful for our church family. I am thankful for our Pastor and his wife-I have learned so much from him...beyond salvation. He teaches practical application from the Bible and I am so thankful that it causes me to grow up in God. I am thankful for the heart of a craftsmen ministry team...to see what they do!!!

I am thankful for Beth and Joyce...through their Bible studies these ladies (and others Connie, Priscilla...) have been used by God to shine His Word in my life and renew me. I am beginning to see who I am in Christ and I want to shine with His glory!

I am thankful for the teachers at my girls' schools. Amazing and caring teachers-we are so blessed! I am thankful for all my students over the years-I learned so much from each of them (especially the difficult ones!). I enjoy getting wedding invitations and seeing what they are doing these days. I am thankful for all the wonderful people that I worked with at the school...espcially Annie who has been a wonderful friend. I am thankful for my special teachers growing up, especially Mrs. Crosier!

I am thankful for good neighbors. I am thankful for great vendors. I am thankful for encouraging bloggers. I am thankful for blog readers. I am thankful for mom friends in the community. I am thankful for Nazia-our compassion child who reminds us to be thankful for what we have.

I am most thankful for:
my Heavenly Father-who chose me before the creation of the world
my Savior and Friend, Jesus who paid a great price so that I could receive the promises of God
my Comforter and Counselor the Holy Spirit who guides me each day (better if I listen:))

There are (obviously) other things I am thankful for...but this is about people. I am sure I didn't list each person I am thankful for...but I am thankful for each person that is in my life... for such a time as this....Well I didn't mean for this to be so long, but I guess I just have a lot to be thankful for!!

It's Not Fair!!!

2011-10-27T07:12:00.000-05:00

My precious (almost) 5 year old is really going through a "it's not fair" stage right now. She keeps saying it..over and over and over! Usually she sees it as not fair from her perspective-like sissy gets something she doesn't. I confirm her message that life isn't "fair" but try to show her from the other perspective-that she is on the blessed side of it not being fair. We've talked about our Compassion child, Nazia and her living conditions compared to ours. I remind her how blessed she is to have food and home and a mom and dad who love her. I've told her that it's not fair that Jesus died for our sins-it wasn't fair to Him...but He did it!

Even after all this-she keeps repeating the phrase "it's not fair!!!" when things don't go her way. Yesterday she had a big fit because her little sister got to put her water in to make mac and cheese first. As a mom, I had a reason for that-Aleigha takes WAY longer to eat, so she needed to start cooking hers first. Zaleigh got very upset that it wasn't fair that Aleigha got to make hers first...she had to go cool off in her room before we could even talk.

While she cooled off, I prayed about how to teach her. I recognized that the problem is comparison-wanting what other's have...unfortunately, she comes by it naturally! I recalled the last part of John 21 when Peter asks "what about him?" wanting to know if John's fate would be the same as his. Jesus' answer is what we need to focus on when life doesn't seem fair "...what is that to you? You must follow me" John 21:22b

So Zaleigh and I decided that when she feels like something isn't fair, instead of whining she will say "This doesn't seem fair, BUT God is good all the time and I will trust Him!!" We'll see how that works out for her :)

I've already been confronted with it! I was feeling grouchy and grumpy...because life doesn't seem fair and I don't understand God. My friend's brother died a year ago at such a young age...that's not fair! When I think about her parents loosing their son (and can't imagine loosing my precious girls)...that's not fair! Today I think about my daddy who has been gone for 14 years....that's not fair! When a momma looses a baby that she didn't even get to hold....that's not fair! There are many things in life that aren't fair...but we have a choice to make.

As He often does, God used the words I lead my daughters with to teach me as well...Am I trusting God even though it doesn't seem fair? What is it to me that He chooses this for my life and something different for another's life...I will follow Him!

Isaiah 55:9“As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.

I won't keep searching for answers that aren't here to find....

All I know is I'm not home yet
This is not where I belong
Take this world and give me Jesus

Passion

2011-10-15T03:56:00.000-05:00

I can't sleep...always a good time to blog, right? Somehow while I was praying in bed, my mind raced off thinking about passions and trying to categorize people's passions. So here I find myself at 2:20 in the morning trying to get these thoughts on this screen. In about an hour my husband will wake up (too early) to pursue his passion of hunting (morea bout that passion another day:)).

I was thinking of how creative God is in His design of people. There are people who are passionate about things that I honestly care very little about...and I'm sure there are many people who care little about my passion as as well. I guess that's why we have relationships...to balance out...to learn and grow. As I was thinking about some of the various passions, God revealed to me that they really aren't all that different.

My husband rediscovered one of his passions this summer as he worked with men of God to minister to boys by rebuilding a hot rod and a motorcycle in one week. Talk about some passionate men!!! The wise men that have been involved in heart of a craftsman ministered to my husband by showing him that one of his passions can be used to bring glory to God.

How? I'm glad you asked! They take time to PREPARE a car and motorcycle to be redesigned...to be made "new". This preparation takes MUCH time and effort. Then they spend a week with boys and let the boys see the results of a week of hard work by revealing the new vehicle. The boys, men, and vehicles are all transformed...and they bring glory to God! These men use passionate preparation to praise the Lord.

Stay with me here...this might be strange at first...but it made sense in my mind on no sleep, so I'm hoping it will as I type it out here! Last weekend we got to spend some time with my cousin and her family at the fair. Her husband was PREPARING cattle to show at the fair. I've not been around this, so it was new and fascinating to me! She explained much to me-during the conversation she said they felt like they had found something that their family could enjoy together by raising and showing cattle. He was so passionate about it and mentioned it during one of his breaks from the strenuous work. Even as they start this endeavor, they have already seen results...and their story of getting there is neat! She has changed careers to pursue her passions and it is opening doors in their lives!

I know many people who are passionate about teaching/coordinating for education. This requires much preparation...and it is preparing students! My friends Ann and Jessica both work in supervisory roles preparing many people to impact many students....their jobs must be tough...they must have passion to be successful!! The teachers at my daughters' schools must be passionate to make a difference in preparing young people!!

You may not have thought about it, but you may be passionate about preparation as well! Parenting is all about preparation- I have many passionate parent friends (too many to list, but Tiffany and Corina come to mind). Preparing the next generation to know, love, and serve Jesus is at the top of my list! I have a friend Jennifer who is passionate about helping people take care of their body...preparing them to serve the Lord by being healthy! I want to prepare the bride of Christ for His return (more about this soon!)

As I thought about passionate preparation I realized each of the passionate people I thought of have similarities...

What do passionate people have in common?

-HARD WORK

-PREPARING
-SHINE-bring out the best in what they are preparing (Whether vehicles, cows, or people)
Passion is given by God to reveal His purpose and glory.
Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4

What are you passionate about? Are you pursuing it? Other than Passionate Preparation, there is Passionate Purification (Ruin or Destruction), and Passionate Pursuit. Please share your passions in the comments so I can see if how it fits in the patterns I'm seeing...and we may talk more about this soon!

How we remember

2011-09-11T21:54:00.004-05:00

I tend to be one who ignores feelings that I don't want to deal with. An ostrich. I just move on as if nothing happened and everything will be okay. That's what I have done for a while each time I have lost a loved one. Ignore it, think it will go away...of course it doesn't. But maybe the time I took in ignoring it allowed God to build my strength up to handle it-or allowed me to see that He is the one who will walk me through it.

Of course today is 9/11 and it's a day we will never forget...but I don't really want to remember. Having a very inquisitive 4 year old, it was impossible for me to completely ignore it-she asks such probing questions. I was not personally impacted as far as the loss of a loved one on that day, so it was fairly easy to answer her questions without being overcome by grief. I guess I was able to explain it and look at it from an historical perspective...like something you would read from a history book as if you didn't experience it in your lifetime. Is the disconnect a good thing? Am I afraid to really engage in it and deal with the feelings and grief? It reminded me of how I have processed grief in my life....asking myself if I have processed it fully.

I can't imagine the families of the 9/11 victims (or any other public events) who have to process their grief publicly. The media coverage-of course we don't want to forget....but to the families who are ready to move on-they will have a hard time ignoring this day. Thankfully, on the 10th anniversary of the loss of either of my parents, there was no one asking me how I was doing or how it had changed my life. I am very thankful I was able to handle the grief privately...allowing the Lord to heal me in His way and His time and not need to answer to media. I think the familiese need to know that others care and remember their loved ones, but I can't imagine the whole nation remembering the date and circumstances of that loss.

Praying today for our nation, for those who lost loved ones (on this day or any other) that we will experience Isaiah 61 in our lives.

1 The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,
2 to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the LORD
for the display of his splendor.

This song is God's plan for us in the midst of tragedy...He wants His people to rise!

promises in darkness

2011-07-12T13:51:00.000-05:00

This week I've been blogging about a recent time I felt discouraged and how God has delivered me out of that darkness. Since it's not a new thing for me but something I continually trust Him to do....I have a set of index cards that have some of my favorite promises for the darkness. He is so faithful to restore joy and pull me out of whatever mess I'm in! Today I just want to share some fun upbeat songs and scriptures that have helped me! If you are struggling in some area now, I encourage you to call out to Jesus!! He is the one who will rescue you-He loves you and has a plan for your life!

This song has the words of Philippians 4:13 in a catchy tune! Great words to remember and believe when I'm down and it doesn't feel like I can do anything.

Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure because you will not abandon me! Psalm 16:9

But you are a shield around me, O Lord, you bestow glory on me and lift up my head. Psalm 3:3

I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. Psalm 27:13-14

Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the Lord has been good to you. For you, oh Lord have delivered my soul from death, my eyes form tears, my feet from stumbling. Psalm 116:7-8 (This one makes me want to dance and shout!!!)

Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my saviour and my God. Psalm 42:5 (This one reminds me that even the psalmist had down days, but trusted in God!)

This song has the words of 1 John 4:4. God is greater than any darkness I may face!

Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights. Habakkuk 3:18-19

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Romans 12:12

When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul. Psalm 94:19

Though you have made me see troubles many and bitter, you will restore my life again...my lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you! Psalm 71:20,23

You have made known to me the path of life! You will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasure at your right hand. Psalm 16:11

Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days. Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us, for as many years as we have seen trouble. Psalm 90:14-15

I sought the Lord and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. Psalm 34:4-5

This song just makes me move!

Thank you Lord for your word! It's pleasant words are as a honeycomb, sweet to the sweet to the mind and healing to the body (Prov 16:24). Thank you Lord for your faithful promises and for always demonstrating your love in our lives. Lord I pray that you would use your Word to encourage every reader of this blog today! Let us look to Jesus quickly when life seems tough, the faster we turn to him the faster He helps us! In Jesus name, Amen.

May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

There are obviously MANY more encouraging and uplifting scriptures. I know for me, when I am down I sometimes don't have the desire to search for them-that's why I have written them out on cards. Some of the verses are found in Beth Moore's Praying God's Word -a wonderful resource for many areas! If you have a favorite verse that always encourages you....please leave it in the comments for other readers to be encouraged! Thanks for reading today:)

Into the Light

2011-07-11T07:27:00.008-05:00

In the last post, I admitted to feelings of darkness. My heart is learning to echo the words of Paul -Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 Since I have shared about my weaknesses, in this post I want to share what God has taught me and how His word has brought me into the Light!

And I will give you the treasures of darkness and hidden riches of secret places, that you may know that it is I, the Lord, the God of Israel, Who calls you by your name.Isaiah 45:3 AMP

This verse just popped out to me!!! There are treasures of darkness...things I can learn when I feel down and discouraged? YES!!! Knowing this promise makes a season of darkness have a purpose. It brings to life Romans 8:28 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. Something good will come out of a season of darkness when I cling to the ONE who knows me in that darkness and wants to bring me into His marvelous light.

He brought them out of darkness and the deepest gloom
and broke away their chains.
Psalm 107:14 (are you singing my chains are gone:)?)

The people walking in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of deep darkness
a light has dawned.
Isaiah 9:2

Jesus is that light! His words confirm this in John 12:46 I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness. I don't have to stay in darkness when I look to Jesus!!

the LORD turns my darkness into light.
2 Samuel 22:29

Light shines in the darkness for the upright.
He is gracious, compassionate, and righteous.
Psalm 112:4 HCSB

Who among you fears the LORD
and obeys the word of his servant?
Let him who walks in the dark,
who has no light,
trust in the name of the LORD
and rely on his God.
Isaiah 50:10

What I need to learn in the darkness is summed up in Isaiah 50:10....to trust God. Why shouldn't I? His promises are precious and He is good!

For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves Colossians 1:13

Thank you Lord for bringing me into your marvelous light! I know there may be another day or season of darkness-when it comes, strengthen my heart and remind me that you are light and I have precious promises in You! Oh Lord, I know that there are many people who feel the heaviness of darkness as I have. Lord shine your light on them and break their chains!! You LORD are my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in YOU, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to YOU in song (Psalm 28:7)

Come back tomorrow...I'm working on another post about the light!

Out of Darkness

2011-07-10T22:16:00.001-05:00

I don't know why it's hard to admit when I feel sad. I don't like to say I'm feeling down or discouraged or depressed. I think I run from those feelings because of my family's health history. I know that Jesus has set me free and I will not suffer from bipolar as my momma did....He showed me that promise years ago (He has made me a new creation and healed me!!). I guess when I have any negative feelings my mind starts the downward spiral and I start to doubt His promises. What if I do end up unable to function...living in my bed and leaving my children to fend for themselves-what if I do end up like my mom??? That is a big lie that the enemy uses in my life when I have negative emotions.

So...I'm admitting it...I have been in darkness off and on for a few weeks. It's so hard because it seems like it's over and then is comes back! I spend time with my healer and feel the joy of His presence and then life happens and I feel like I'm on that negative spiral AGAIN! I end up feeling condemned for my thoughts and emotions ...especially if there's 'nothing wrong'-when life looks good and there is not something I can blame for my emotions. I have to remember that Jesus said we will have trouble in this world (John 16:33) so I don't need to condemn myself for my feelings and emotions...just deal with them as they come. If I remember the second part of the verse-to take heart because He has overcome the world-then I will remember that He will get me through these negative emotions.

According to Psalm 139, it doesn't do me any good to try to ignore or deny the feelings of darkness, He knows. I don't have to hide from God or try to be happy in my own power-God already knows what I am thinking and feeling. I can be honest with Him and face the darkness because He is LIGHT!!
even the darkness will not be dark to you;
the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you.
Psalm 139:12

You, O LORD, keep my lamp burning;
my God turns my darkness into light.
Psalm 18:28

Do not gloat over me, my enemy!
Though I have fallen, I will rise.
Though I sit in darkness,
the LORD will be my light.
Micah 7:8

I read the chapter about negative emotions in Stormie Omartian's book Praying Through the Deeper Issues of Marriage. It talks about the feelings of being disconnected and distant and the habit of focusing on the negative side of things. This chapter also has some great Bible verses that really spoke to me about this darkness. This quote explains how I've felt:

You can still have the light of the Lord Within you and yet have the darkness of oppression settle on you and invade your life like an enemy encroaching on the territory of your being. (A few pages later) Negative emotions are not something you have to live with. In fact, you must do whatever is necessary to get rid of them. They not only hurt you, they hurt your spouse and children as well. God has given you a way out of them thought the power of prayer, praise, His Word, His presence, and His love.

I have seen the truth of Stormie's words that it hurts others. I have noticed that when I am feeling down and thinking negatively-I'm usually focused on myself. If I'm only thinking about myself, I am not able to be a good friend or pay attention to the needs of others. I think this is one reason the enemy wants to keep me feeling darkness.

Do not hand over the life of your dove to wild beasts;
do not forget the lives of your afflicted people forever.
Have regard for your covenant,
because haunts of violence fill the dark places of the land.
Do not let the oppressed retreat in disgrace;
may the poor and needy praise your name.
Psalm 74:20-21

I sought the LORD, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.
Those who look to him are radiant;
their faces are never covered with shame.
Psalm 34:45-5

He is calling me out of darkness!!! He answers me...I will look to him and be radiant, not full of shame!! Thank You Jesus!!!!

There is so much I've learned in the last few weeks (in fact I've been working on this post for almost a week now). I think I will find time to continue this week blogging about light and some other verses that have helped when I've been down. Thanks for reading:)

Connersvine - Live For You

2011-07-06T15:18:00.001-05:00

Check out this video on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXt8LQeUVCM&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Sent from Gwen's iPhone

Baby Blessings

2011-06-23T13:35:00.000-05:00

My cheeks are still tear stained..I can't dry my eyes. I saw a fb friend's status today about remembering her angel in heaven. I saw another friend's status about praying for the family of a baby who just died. I found these two stories (don't look at them if you don't want to cry)! Mamie Miller

My heart just hurts. I can't even describe it. I can't imagine the pain of giving birth to a stillborn or having a baby in heaven after only a few weeks here. I know the pain of miscarriage, but not having carried a baby full term and loosing her. I have a few friends who have been there. Yet they have hope. I guess that's the only way to keep going....to believe that God has a plan for it.

So...even though I'm still crying this was good for me to consider. I've had a rough week with my girls....but I have them! They are with me, I can feel their sweet warm skin and smell their breath and stroke their hair and hear them giggle. They may not always listen or do what I would like, but they are full of love and energy...and they are here!!!

I will remember how blessed I am to have such sweet girls the next time they are whining or screaming or not sleeping.
I will remember that God chose me to be their momma and He has a plan for their lives and mine.
I will remember that God will give me all I need to be their momma...so when I am short on patience I will go to Him.

Thank you Jesus for this reminder today! Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be a momma. Let me never take it for granted. Remind me that it is your strength that will make me the momma I desire to be. Let me always be thankful for the precious girls you have given me. Lord, comfort those who have lost their babies-just hold them. You have a plan for their pain-you will heal their hurts...call them to you! Thank you Lord for your goodness and mercy. In Jesus name. Amen

Darkness

2011-06-21T15:42:00.004-05:00

I have been feeling sad...don't know why...just struggling right now. My sweet husband came and took the girls for a couple of hours this morning so I could pray and get better. Life today was on in the background before the girls left and I heard them talking about being free and discussing Psalm 74. So I turned there and this stood out to me:

Do not hand over the life of your dove to wild beasts;

do not forget the lives of your afflicted people forever.
Have regard for your covenant,
because haunts of violence fill the dark places of the land.
Do not let the oppressed retreat in disgrace;
may the poor and needy praise your name.
Psalm 74:19-21

This is how I feel today. I know we can't always trust our feelings...but today I feel afflicted and oppressed. It helps me to know that I am not the only one to ever feel this way. I remember the freedom I felt when I received that revelation-David was up and down emotionally and he was described as a man after God's own heart. Elijah was a prophet and still ran...after God powerfully showed himself. (see 1 Kings 18). So if these men can still be used by God, so can I-I will not be condemned for my feelings.

Father's love letter

2011-06-20T06:54:00.000-05:00

This is a precious letter I found on another blog this morning....click here to watch it on video, or just read it below.

My Child,

You may not know me,

but I know everything about you.

Psalm 139:1

I know when you sit down and when you rise up.

Psalm 139:2

I am familiar with all your ways.

Psalm 139:3

Even the very hairs on your head are numbered.

Matthew 10:29-31

For you were made in my image.

Genesis 1:27

In me you live and move and have your being.

Acts 17:28

For you are my offspring.

Acts 17:28

I knew you even before you were conceived.

Jeremiah 1:4-5

I chose you when I planned creation.

Ephesians 1:11-12

You were not a mistake,

for all your days are written in my book.

Psalm 139:15-16

I determined the exact time of your birth

and where you would live.

Acts 17:26

You are fearfully and wonderfully made.

Psalm 139:14

I knit you together in your mother's womb.

Psalm 139:13

And brought you forth on the day you were born.

Psalm 71:6

I have been misrepresented

by those who don't know me.

John 8:41-44

I am not distant and angry,

but am the complete expression of love.

1 John 4:16

And it is my desire to lavish my love on you.

1 John 3:1

Simply because you are my child

and I am your Father.

1 John 3:1

I offer you more than your earthly father ever could.

Matthew 7:11

For I am the perfect father.

Matthew 5:48

Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand.

James 1:17

For I am your provider and I meet all your needs.

Matthew 6:31-33

My plan for your future has always been filled with hope.

Jeremiah 29:11

Because I love you with an everlasting love.

Jeremiah 31:3

My thoughts toward you are countless

as the sand on the seashore.

Psalms 139:17-18

And I rejoice over you with singing.

Zephaniah 3:17

I will never stop doing good to you.

Jeremiah 32:40

For you are my treasured possession.

Exodus 19:5

I desire to establish you

with all my heart and all my soul.

Jeremiah 32:41

And I want to show you great and marvelous things.

Jeremiah 33:3

If you seek me with all your heart,

you will find me.

Deuteronomy 4:29

Delight in me and I will give you

the desires of your heart.

Psalm 37:4

For it is I who gave you those desires.

Philippians 2:13

I am able to do more for you

than you could possibly imagine.

Ephesians 3:20

For I am your greatest encourager.

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

I am also the Father who comforts you

in all your troubles.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

When you are brokenhearted,

I am close to you.

Psalm 34:18

As a shepherd carries a lamb,

I have carried you close to my heart.

Isaiah 40:11

One day I will wipe away

every tear from your eyes.

Revelation 21:3-4

And I'll take away all the pain

you have suffered on this earth.

Revelation 21:3-4

I am your Father, and I love you

even as I love my son, Jesus.

John 17:23

For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed.

John 17:26

He is the exact representation of my being.

Hebrews 1:3

He came to demonstrate that I am for you,

not against you.

Romans 8:31

And to tell you that I am not counting your sins.

2 Corinthians 5:18-19

Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled.

2 Corinthians 5:18-19

His death was the ultimate expression

of my love for you.

1 John 4:10

I gave up everything I loved

that I might gain your love.

Romans 8:31-32

If you receive the gift of my son Jesus,

you receive me.

1 John 2:23

And nothing will ever separate you

from my love again.

Romans 8:38-39

Come home and I'll throw the biggest party

heaven has ever seen.

Luke 15:7

I have always been Father,

and will always be Father.

Ephesians 3:14-15

My question is…

Will you be my child?

John 1:12-13

I am waiting for you.

Luke 15:11-32

Love, Your Dad

Father's Love Letter used by permission Father Heart Communications

© 1999-2011 www.FathersLoveLetter.com

Hot Dog

2011-06-19T21:41:00.001-05:00

It's HOT here! Last week several men were in the heat all day (and all night in some cases) to make hot rod camp a success by sharing the love of Christ with 10 boys. A week ago Saturday we got to hear the start up of the 1923 T bucket and the 1997 sportster that the youth from Tulsa Boys Home put together that week at Hot Rod Camp with the guidance of some dedicated men (including my husband!!!). It was awesome for me to hear my husband address the crowd and tell the kids that the bike was cool but the reason they were there was to share the love of Christ. It was also great to hear those same boys tell of the week as the best of their lives! Last Sunday my heart was so happy hearing my husband speak in front of our church family telling what Hot Rod Camp had meant to him.

1923 T Bucket that was restored during HRC 2011

Seeing the men work on this project had me thinking alot about my daddy. This is something he would have LOVED to do. He had a 1916 Model T (and some others I can't recall) that he had planned to restore before he died. As I thought about how much I respect the men working at hot rod camp, I realized that I hadn't really respected my daddy. Recently, I had a conversation with my baby brother about our daddy and I was amazed at the nice things he had to say about daddy. That led me to think about how I saw daddy and what needed to change.

One of the cars Daddy had around 1990

After realizing that I didn't properly respect my daddy while he was here on earth, I recalled this verse:

Where there is no vision [no redemptive revelation of God], the people perish; but he who keeps the law [of God, which includes that of man]--blessed (happy, fortunate, and enviable) is he. Proverbs 29:18 I never had a redemptive revelation of my daddy....meaning that I never saw him through the blood of Jesus. I saw him as an alcoholic and experienced that rejection as his little girl.

I thought that I had forgiven him, but I see that it wasn't complete before now. Even though my daddy wasn't able to meet all my needs as a little girl and made many mistakes-he is forgiven. He put his trust in Jesus and became sober shortly before he died. I saw the change and try to always remember those times, but never really let go of the hurts from before that time. When my daddy but his trust in Jesus, he was made brand new!!

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! 2 Corinthians 5:17

Because daddy trusted in Jesus he was justified...it's just as if he'd done everything right. This is what Jesus did for me when I fully put my trust in Him, it's what He did for my daddy when he trusted him, and it's what He will do for all who call out to Him and fully trust in His finished work on the cross for their salvation!

Instead of their shame my people will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace they will rejoice in their inheritance; and so they will inherit a double portion in their land, and everlasting joy will be theirs. Isaiah 61:7

My daddy and I ~1978

On this father's day I am thankful for my daddy. I am thankful for the grace to fully forgive him and I choose to see him through the blood of Jesus. Daddy was a hard worker and did his best to care for his family. I think if he were still alive today his life would demonstrate the righteousness Jesus gave him.

I am thankful for my husband who is a wonderful daddy to our precious girls. I am thankful for the redemptive revelation of him- that he is the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus and that I can teach my girls to respect and admire him.

My family with Harley that was customized at HRC 2011

On a lighter note...the title of this post comes from one of Aleigha's prayers. This two-year old's prayers are just precious, as seems she usually just copies what she has heard prayed before. One of her prayers last week was "Amen God made hot dog camp, Amen God made my daddy work hot dog camp". Obviously, not knowing what Hot Rod camp was, she just filled in with a word she knew and gave us many giggles:)! Yep-she says her Amen first, it's really cute to her momma, she's done it like this since she first started praying by herself. Now that I think about it, it's really neat-she's saying she believes what she prays before she even says it! For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God. 2 Corinthians 1:20