Home Treasures

No greater JOY!

2011-07-17T21:03:00.005-04:00

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

Turning 50

2011-04-23T12:35:00.008-04:00

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

The Road of Loneliness

2011-02-24T13:54:00.019-05:00

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

Oh Those Winter Days

2011-01-31T13:41:00.011-05:00

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

Holidays and Family

2010-12-01T13:33:00.006-05:00

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

Grace so Amazing

2010-11-19T21:27:00.005-05:00

Well I have been absent for awhile and I apologize. As you all know we go through many different seasons in our lives. I have been in a "Menopausal season". Well to say the least it is not an easy road. I have my up days and down days but for the most part it is an emotional roller coaster for me. I keep wanting to just get through it and just be over it altogether. The Lord continues to remind me that His grace is sufficient each day. He has showed me that like any season of life we need to embrace it and allow Him to do His refining work in our life through whatever it is we are going through. I must say that it is not as easy as it sounds. Only by His grace am I able to trust Him in every area of my life so why should this be any different.
I want to encourage you my sister in the Lord that whatever season of life you are in, the Lord is with you. Christ understands all and will provide the grace we need.
May we desire only, in all ,to be more and more conformed to His image! This is the GOAL!

Blessed are thou, O child of God, who sufferest
And canst not understand
The reason for thy pain, yet gladly leavest
Thy life in His blest Hand.
Yea, blessed art thou whose faith is "not offended"
By trials unexplained,
By mysteries unsolved,past understanding,
Until the GOAL is gained!

By Freda Hanbury Allen

Twenty One Years and Here We go Again

2010-08-17T14:43:00.005-04:00

I always have mixed emotions this time of year. I love summertime and the freedom and great spontaneous times together. My husband is now beginning his 26th year in the public school system and I am starting my 21st year as a homeschool mom. We are for the most part always ready to get back into routine when the time comes. Being a homeschooling mom I have to switch into teacher mode which I have always looked forward too. I love being the primary influence in my children's lives and their education. I have always loved learning with them and being able to keep everything they learn Christ centered. It is a privilege and I would never trade a minute of it. I have come to realize what a small part "BOOK KNOWLEDGE" is in the training of our children. I have always enjoyed being able to be spontaneous as we learn daily life application and then being able to go to Gods word and see what He has to say to us that day.
I truly believe building character and beauty from within each child has to be a daily on purpose priority for us as mothers. It takes planning and time to nurture our children in the way God intended. What an awesome "JOB" we have. Never feel as a Mom that your task is menial or demeaning. You have the greatest "JOB" in the world , the opportunity to mold the next generation for the kingdom of GOD. Don't ever take it lightly and don't let well meaning plans or hobbies or other jobs take the place of our most important "JOB" , training Gods future solders for the kingdom of God. What a calling! Glory to God for this temporary earthy journey we are in . Help us Lord to stay focused on eternity for the sake of our CHILDREN!

Im Back! "Summer Thoughts"

2010-07-19T15:18:00.004-04:00

Well it just seems time is flying and before we know our summer is over. I feel like my life is changing fast and as I am getting older time is fleeting. We are having a great summer. I love Florida weather, even though I do complain about the heat, I truly love living in the sunshine state. We were just at the beach for a week, not long enough, I truly do think I could stay a month. I truly am a beach girl at heart! I just love sitting at the water with my umbrella chair ,the waves cresting over my feet and legs keeping me cool and a book in my hand. Looking at the ocean I am so reminded of the overwhelming vastness of our God! I always feel I can reflect on my life and talk to the Lord in a way like no other when I am there. I really think I could live on the beach and be very content. I would love to one day have a home on the beach if the Lord so wills. As for my husband he would prefer to be in the woods where he could hunt year round. I guess we will have to find a happy medium when that time comes. As we are still in the middle of our summer months I just want to encourage you to plan activities together with your children. It may be just pulling weeds at your church and then going out for ice cream, Blackberry picking, watching old family videos together. Whatever it is planning family time is essential in this day and time when we stay so busy. As Moms we are also the"activity directors" for our children. It is easy to let them sit in front of a tv or computer for entertainment ,but is it wise? Be proactive in making your summer a memorable one by sitting down with your children and planning things to do. I love games and puzzles and sometimes it is like pulling teeth to get family members to participate with me but when they do they are always glad and we laugh and have such fun together. These are also times where great conversations can take place, sharing and reconnecting with each other is so important in this day and time. So in closing don't let the summer get away from you without being intentional about planning family activities that will make your summer a memorable one! Have fun and be spontaneous!!

Birthday Blessings

2010-04-27T23:11:00.009-04:00

Wow, another year has gone by which means I am another year older. The older I get the more I focus on Gods overflowing blessings in my life. I have a wonderful husband of 29 years. I have 5 incredible children, 2 awesome son -in-laws and 1 new son-in-law to be and last but not least my "practically perfect in every way grandson James"! What more can I ask for. My father always says "age is an attitude" ,oh how true that is. Of course when you get ready to get another year older you want to do things to stay young, so yes you guessed it I started a diet this week to eat healthier and yes ,I can afford to lose a few pounds. I also started exercising more. I even did an hour long beginners yoga dvd to stay limber and relaxed. LOL My daughter got a kick out of watching that! It is funny the things we do to try to stay younger and healthy and feeling good about ourselves. Who doesn't want to feel good? So yes ,it is ok to work on our physical being as long as we continue to work on our spiritual being as well. Each year it is important to re-evaluate our relationship with the Lord.
Are we as faithful in spending time with Him daily as we are to eat our next meal. Do we truly desire to grow into His likeness and image? What steps are we taking to do so. There is a scripture that talks about our physical body decaying ,but inwardly as we seek Him we are being renewed day by day. Yes, I do want a great big piece of Publix chocolate cake for my birthday but much more than that I want to be so in tune with the Lord that I hear His voice and see His face daily! I desire that my life reflect Him and bring Him glory each day. I truly want to be able to say " Every day with Jesus is sweeter than the day before".

" Lord, I need a Vacation"

2010-03-26T11:41:00.011-04:00

Vacations or should I say "time of refreshment and renewal" are so important not only for yourself but also your family. I was one of those mothers who was rarely away from my children and always had a difficult time leaving them . I have always enjoyed motherhood and felt that being a wife and mother is the greatest and most rewarding calling there is. I never felt like my children were a burden or kept me from "fulfilling my dreams" You see being a wife and mother had always been my dream since I was a little girl "playing house". I wanted to be like my mom. I dreamed of growing up to be like her , she was my superhero, she always reflected an attitude of fulfillment and contentment in being a stay at home wife and mother. She knew that in order to be the wife and mother God called her to be she needed times of re-fueling. I cannot stress enough to you the importance of your children feeling that your "joy" is found in your relationship with Jesus Christ which in turn enables you to exude a joy and love in being their mother. Re-fueling enables you to live this in front of them day in and day out without "growing weary". No matter what happens in your life and family children need to feel that your greatest joy comes in serving them. Humility in admitting mistakes and putting their needs before yours is "truly serving" your family. I would often tell my children that they brought me so much joy and I thanked the Lord for giving them to me daily. Yes "life happened" and it wasn't always easy and we had ,like any family our difficult days, but I always reminded them of the blessing they were to their father and I ,and we couldn't ever imagine our lives without them. I know you are wondering what this all has to do with needing a vacation. Well in order to "not grow weary in well doing", it is important that you take time away from your children to be refreshed and renewed for this awesome calling on your life". I often remember telling my husband that it was amazing what just 24 hrs did for our marriage and relationships with our children. It gave me time to reflect and regroup and most importantly regain a fresh perspective and renewed commitment to loving and serving them. In closing I encourage you to thank the Lord daily for the privilege of being a wife and mother. Plan and take time ,even if it is just a few hours, asking the Lord to fill you with renewed energy and joy and contentment in your calling as a wife and mother.
I can honestly say that when you do this you will find that even the most mundane things like folding laundry and or changing dirty diapers will bring you joy and fulfillment. Don't ever think that being a mother is just "a job" but inturn know that it is a "privileged and esteemed high calling" on your life. God hand picked you to be the mother of your children, His greatest treasures have been entrusted into your care! Thank you Lord for entrusting me with 5 of your treasures. I am eternally grateful!
"Behold, Children are a heritage from the Lord." Psalm 127:3

Returning HOME

2010-03-16T23:18:00.003-04:00

I just want to start off by saying that the heartbeat of where we are in this country starts at home. I count it a privilege to be a wife , mother and keeper of the home. Statistics strongly show that the decline of this nation started when mothers went into the work force. It saddens my heart when I see all the children left in the care of others day in and day out. We have sacrificed our homes and children for material gain. With all my heart I believe that money and the love of it have driven many mothers from their homes. My heart is heavy and I make no apologizes for my thoughts on this matter. Yes, I know there are exceptions and I don't at all question those since they are out of necessity to live ,but most cases are out of want.
God gives us children to love, nurture, train and teach primarily from the home. We are suffering as a nation because our children are not a priority. I pray daily for mothers to return home to their families not only in physical presence but in their hearts. The Lord desires nothing more than to see women of chaste character, discrete, keepers of the home, love their husbands and their children and earnestly seek to serve HIM. This is my heartbeat for the women of America,
A call to RETURN HOME!

Obama Health Care What can we do?

2010-03-07T22:10:00.006-05:00

If you are not aware, within the next 10-15 days our current President and his administration are seeking to pass a Health Care bill that will be detrimental to our country.
Yes, we do need Health care revisions, but not to the degree they are pushing on the American people. Not only will our National debt sore to even more astronomical amounts but we as taxpayers will be helping to fund Abortion and abortion providers across the country. I don't know about you but this turns my stomach and I refuse to be apathetic and allow this to happen without a fight. Our pastor preached a great sermon on this issue and encouraged us to TAKE ACTION! First and foremost we need to PRAY like never before for this bill not to pass. Second we need to tell our friends. A great website for info on this issue to share is http://www.frc.org/ . This website is awesome and filled with great info to keep us informed on what is taking place on a national level in our country.This is definitely a website to save to your "favorites". Third we need to contact our elected officials and voice our feelings on this issue.! Once you get to the home page of http://www.frc.org/ scroll down to the bottom left and click on "Contact officials" , then by entering your zip code it will take you directly to your state officials. You can choose to email or send a letter to them right then. It is that easy. I urge you to go to http://www.frc.org/ and make your voice known!
We must not sit idle by and let this happen without a fight. As a citizen of this wonderful country called America, founded on Gods principles which includes the Sanctity of human life, we must take a stand for what it RIGHT! I urge you to PRAY and SPEAK UP! We can make a difference if we ACT QUICKLY! Psalm 107:2 "Let the redeemed of the Lord SAY SO!"

True Love

2010-02-15T00:03:00.004-05:00

As I reflect on this Valentines day I am reminded of what
"True Love"really is:

Love is Longsuffering
Love is kind
Love is not jealous
Love is not boastful
Love is not arrogant
Love is not rude
Love is not selfish
Love is not resentful
Love does not think evil of others
Love rejoices in the truth
Love bears all things
Love believes all things
Love hopes all things
Love endures all things 1 Cor 13: 1-13

"For God so LOVED this world that He gave his only son, that whoever believes in Him will
not perish but have everlasting life" John 3 :16

Christs death on the cross for our sins is the upmost example of "True Love" Pass it ON!

Our Nations Unborn, Will you be a voice for them!

2010-01-22T14:37:00.006-05:00

With all the devastation and horror that has happened in Haiti my heart is heavy. They are saying over 200,000 plus now killed from this horrific disaster! I heard on the news the other day that our natural disasters have doubled in the last 10 years. We are definitely in the last days. The Lord tells us in Matthew that they will become like a women in labor, closer and closer together and more painful. Thank you Jesus that we know the end of the story and as believers we know you are in total control and our eternal destiny is in your hands.
We just recognized "Sanctity of Life Sunday" " The 37th Anniversary of "Woe vs Wade", the decision that is now responsible for the killing of over 50 million babies in our country alone. Just to put this in perspective: As horrible as the deaths are in Haiti we as Americans are loosing the lives of around 125,000 unborn babies every 25 days! What can we do? We can be a voice for them by calling and supporting a bill to overturn legalized abortion in the state of Florida.
This bill birthed by Florida State Representative Charles VanZant needs our voice so that Florida can lead the way in saving the lives of our nations unborn. Will you be a voice for the voiceless?

Psalm 139: 14-15 " You knew me before I was formed in my mothers womb, I am fearfully and wonderfully made. marvelous are your works oh Lord."

IM BACK ! Radical Faith in 2010

2010-01-11T17:42:00.008-05:00

Well, as we are embarking on a new year, how do you feel? Do you want to make changes or are you content to stay just as you are? Do you want a different job maybe or place of residence and or circle of friends? When I think of a new year I think of new goals and decisive life changes. Im not sure why it is these feelings surface except for the fact that "newness" in any form or fashion represents change. My personal feelings are a reflection of "What do I want my life to count for?" What changes do I need to make to more forward with the Lords plan for me. Am I available and flexible to CHANGE ? What I am saying is that with each passing year the things that were once so important to me become less important. My focus changes to building relationships , spending time with those I love and seeking out more ways of serving and furthering the cause of Christ. This is living out RADICAL FAITH! Trusting and living in a way that is not the norm. Standing up for our convictions in a way that rubs most of the world the wrong way. Living SET APART lives! I truly believe this is Gods call on our lives as we begin 2010. Are we willing to change our lifestyles, place of residence, circle of friends and or current jobs, in other words leave our comfort zones to further His kingdom? HERE AM I LORD SEND ME!

Christmas is Here Again

2009-12-08T22:15:00.003-05:00

Well, we are about to celebrate our 30th Christmas together. I cant believe it. What a year it has been for our family. We sold our home in January and moved on February 1st. Our daughter was married on June 6th. Our first grandchild was adopted on October 21st. These are just a few milestones that have happened in our family this year. How about yours? With each passing year our circumstances and or place of residence or maybe even number of family members can change. Christmas time for me always marks the end of a year and causes me to reflect on all Gods blessings. I think of past Christmas's and what they remind me of as our family has grown and changed. For example our family of 7 is now 10! Our children now have families of their own. We are grandparents, wow, where has the time gone. Through all of this one thing remains the same. God sent his son to this world through the virgin Mary to live a sinless life and then die on a cross for our sins that we might have eternal life. This is why we celebrate this season. Yes, the presents, lights and parties are all fun but JESUS is truly the reason for Christmas. We celebrate his birthday, the greatest gift of all! It is so important that we teach and share this truth with our children so they can grow up knowing the real meaning of the season. Teaching them to know and come to a saving knowledge of Him is the greatest gift we can ever give them!
Do they see Jesus in us day in and day out? Do we tell them often of His love for them ? Reminding them of how he came to this earth ,lived and died so that we might LIVE! If we do not then we are withholding the the truth of Christmas! Let us be so careful to plan our activities in a way that keep our focus on why we celebrate! This is what our children will remember,not the gifts but the GIVER of life. Happy Birthday JESUS!

CHOICES

2009-11-18T22:09:00.006-05:00

I am often reminded that our life's journey is about the choices we make. I was once told "It is not the chosen few but the few who choose" We often think that our circumstances are just happen-chance but that is a mis-conception. Our circumstances are a result of our daily choices.
When I hear someone say "I just don't have time to do that" what they are really saying is "I'm choosing to do something else with my time ". You may be asking "where is she going with all this?" Well , I strongly feel that what we deal with day in and day out is a result of our own choices. Our choices whether good or bad don't just affect us but everyone around us. For example love is not just a feeling but an act of the will. It is a choice we make to love our husband, children and extended family members and so forth. After the choice is made the feelings will follow. For instance, you don't just stop loving someone , you choose to stop loving them.
As wives and mothers we choose to love and serve the Lord. We choose to have a servants heart towards our family. We choose to repond in a quiet and patient manner. We choose to put others needs before our own. We don't always feel like making these choices but if we seek Gods wisdom in making the right choices His strength and grace will follow. Lord, please help us ,as women after your own heart , to make the right choices despite our feelings. May our choices be those that are pleasing to you. Help us to live above mediocre happen-chance and instead live "on purpose" lives resulting from Godly choices that will inturn enable us to make a difference in the lives of others. Ask yourself " What am I choosing to do or say this very minute and will it bring honor and glory to God . Remember that our legacy will be a direct result of the choices we make on a daily bases. Start by choosing to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and the rest is his-story! John 3:16

"Trusting" when the Future is Uncertain

2009-11-05T23:14:00.004-05:00

Trusting, what does it really mean? It is very easy to say but how do we live it out? Over the last few weeks I have been challenged in this area. I went for a regular doctor visit and was diagnosed with thyroid disease. I was sent for a ultra sound in which the doctors saw something they did not like. Over the next few weeks I had another ultra- sound and then a Cat scan and finally a biopsy on a cyst located behind my thyroid. It was difficult at times to not get anxious or caught up in the worry and "what ifs".
I was often reminded in my daily time with the Lord that He was in total control and I need not worry. It was amazing the peace I experienced over those weeks of uncertainty. Trusting our Lord and Savior is not just a feeling, it is the act of not allowing our emotions to swirl out of control. It is realizing His sovereignty and omni-presence in every situation we face. It is an unexplainable joy followed by a strength the world cannot understand. It is knowing that nothing happens to us that is not filtered through Gods hands first. The more heavenly minded
we are the less important these earthy trials seem. As Christians we know the end of the story , we know where our eternal destiny lies and the victory we posses as believers. We are over- comers in Christ Jesus and the things of this world cannot defeat us. Even in these uncertain and turbulent times in our country ,it is important that we live victoriously! We are children of a RISEN LORD who has overcome this old world! 'The JOY of the Lord is our Strength"Neh 8:10. Well, there is a good ending to the story. My cyst was not malignant ,praise God, but more importantly trusting God and giving Him the honor and Glory no matter what the outcome is the real lesson here and as I said before, we know how the story ENDS!! Don't keep it to yourself, go and tell the GOOD NEWS!

The JOY of raising TEENS

2009-10-22T12:46:00.011-04:00

Well, as I am writing this I am raising my 5th and final teenager. She is 12 and a full blown "TWEEN". (A term referring to the transition between child and teenager)
What a fun time of life! As parents we must have the right perspective and attitude during this transitional time in our child's life. I truly believe that 90% of the difficulty we as parents experience during this time could be eliminated if our perspective and outlook on this period of life was different. First, let me say that God created this period of every child's life and it is part of His design for a healthy transition into adulthood. One way you can ward off alot of conflict is to "Not sweat the small stuff and save your No's for really big issues". Remember they are testing out their independence so we have to let go and allow them to grow into this next stage of life. I am by no means an expert but simply sharing from my personal experiences. Things I have learned over the years are : 1. Have fun with them, laugh out loud and purpose to stay lighthearted. Plan fun outings together. Time is your greatest gift to your children. 2. Stay consistent in reading Gods word together as a reminder that God and God alone is their source of help and strength and has a special plan for their lives. 3. Help them by memorizing Gods word together. This is a gift that they can draw from for a lifetime. 4. Get to know their friends and have them over frequently. Don't hesitate to restrict time with friends you don't have a peace about."Bad company corrupts good character". 5. Tell them you love them often, physical touch from both father and mother are so important during this stage of life even if they resist it don't stop. If they don't get it at home they will seek it out somewhere else. (This is especially important for girls to receive from their fathers) 6.Be their friend but maintain and re-enforce your role as their "parental authority" responsible for their training and protection while under the same roof. Remember ,as I said in the beginning it is 90% outlook and attitude that will define the outcome of this exciting time in your child's life. Choose to enjoy and embrace it.
I am only 1 child away from an empty nest and I am treasuring each and every day! I pray you will commit this short period of time in your child's life to God and ask daily for His wisdom and guidance in the decisions and actions that will shape your teen into the adult God has designed for him or her to be. Remember that they are "unique individuals" and will make their own choices . We can only do our best then leave and trust the outcome to God. Enjoy the journey for it is all too short!

NEW POST "Seasons of Life"

2009-10-06T18:50:00.008-04:00

As the season begins to change from summer to fall I cant help but think of the seasons of life we go through. I am now in a season of transition as my children are all mostly grown and out of the house, well almost. It is difficult yet rewarding watching them make their own ways in the world. I have a hard time allowing them to soar without strings attached. I guess it is more because I want to feel needed and I realize that I'm not needed like I used to be. Each season brings change and change is healthy and good. It is important that we do not resist it since it is part of Gods plan for our lives. God cannot use us if we are unwilling to change. I have recently started a very part time job in retail. Scary, I know especially since I have not worked a cash register since 1979. By being willing to learn something new I am allowing myself to grow but more importantly making myself available to be a lighthouse for the Lord. Change opens up new areas of ministry to reach the lost and this is where my heart is.
Have I learned how to work the register, well almost , each day I am getting better. I truly believe God calls us to be open to these different seasons of our lives in order for Him to use us in a new and fresh way. Remember our primary purpose for being left on this earth is to further His kingdom on earth. How can we do so if we stay in our comfort zones and refuse to step out in faith and see what He has planned for us. Is it scary? you bet, but the Lord promises to never leave or forsake us and He will not lead you where He has not gone before. We are living in an insecure world which makes us even more prone to want to stay within our realm of security. If we do so we will miss out on all the blessings He has in store.
When the Lord opens a door and we don't attempt to go through it, He cannot close it. SO what are you waiting for? Our life is but a vapor so embrace with excitement change and hold on for the journey ahead!

Building a house or building a HOME

2009-09-15T22:19:00.020-04:00

After getting off the phone with my daughter tonight,as we discussed her plans for moving, I thought to myself, moving is such an exciting yet emotional transition. It is difficult to leave a familiar and comfortable space. It is physically hard work to transfer our belongings from one place to another. It is emotionally difficult leaving memories, friends and family behind. I feel very experienced in this area as our family has moved 10 times in 25 years. Coming from a home where I lived in the same house from age five to nineteen I would have never imagined that I would move so often in my adult life. The Lord had other plans though and as I look back I have to say that through it all I have learned a great deal. First of all, a home is not made of brick and mortar, a home is where family resides,where love, laughter and memories are made and shared each and every day. It is family growing in good and difficult times that really build a strong home. I have chosen over the years to focus on the positive aspects of moving and I have to say my favorite is the special relationships we have built over the years. The unforgettable opportunities for ministry the Lord has allowed us to be apart of. I love cleaning out and blessing others with the many things we collect and store and do not need. I have learned how little we can get by on and yet how easy it is to get trapped into thinking a home is made by filling it up with all of the luxuries we can afford. Has it always been easy,no. Have I resisted at times ,yes but I always am reminded of what a home truly is: It is group of unique and special God- created individuals sharing their lives with one another while residing under one roof that make a home. A house is easily replaceable but a home is not. I have never doubted that I would have a roof over my head and three meals a day but I have questioned my ability at times to make sure my children always felt loved and accepted for the individuals they were and would one day become.. This is where a real home built on a solid foundation makes all the difference. Only from laying a foundation of truth can a house become a home or training ground for us to raise up Godly young men and women for His purpose and glory. As my children are now older we often talk about the things we loved about this house or that and the special neighbors we had and memorable times shared, but at the end of the day when it is all said and done my prayer is that my children will not so much remember the physical dwelings they lived in but the home they had. A home that was steadfast and unchanging and solid because it was not made of concrete and mortor but instead a home built on love, forgiveness, acceptence and diciplne,respect and honor that was unchanging, steadfast and secure. A home built on the solid foundation of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. He is and always will be the heart of our home here on earth. Even now He is preparing our forever "home" in heaven where we will dwell with Him for all eternity. Is your home built on the solid rock of Jesus Christ? I pray it is so that you too can know what it is to have a "HOME" like no other.

Do I have to forgive?

2009-09-06T22:09:00.008-04:00

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

" Oh Mom, not chores again"

2009-08-27T21:45:00.010-04:00

I cant stress enough the importance of teaching your children good work ethics at an early age. As early as they can bend over and pick up a toy you can start training them to put it away.
This begins to teach them responsibility for their actions also. "If you take it out, you can put it away" If we make a mess we can clean it up" This is where the real training begins, not just telling them but training, showing,teaching them how by instructing them step by step until they master the skill. I think so many times children become so frustrated when we as parents "bark out" commands and expect things to be done "just so" without the proper instruction. Remember they are in training so we can't expect them to do it just like we would. It takes time, patience and practice. Practice doesn't make perfect,practice makes progress. We are doing our children a grave injustice when we do not teach them the "how too's" of everyday life skills. You can begin by typing out their daily chores based on age and ability and then put it in a place that is visible for them. It really worked well in our house when dad got involved and wrote out the chores. Something about answering to dad always makes them work a little harder. Children truly do want to please. Whether we believe it or not they do desire structure, organization and boundaries to live by. It is security for them followed by consistency that produces the desired results.
The KEY is that we are fair in our expectations. Don't forget to encourage and praise them as they make progress in mastering each required task. It may be as small as putting a book away or making their bed, whatever it is ,they need to be corrected if need be but always praised for a job well done. This doesn't always have to be verbal, you can leave a note under their pillow or in their lunch box. You will be amazed at how this kind of encouragment will change a childs attitude towards work. All because we as parents take the time to notice and make a big deal of their accomplishments. I also would encourage siblings to offer help when needed and recognize each others efforts by speaking words of kindness. This will build strong relationships between them that will carry over for a lifetime. Remember as parents we are in the "TRAINING BUSINESS". There is no greater job on earth whereby we can watch a life change before our eyes ,knowing that we had a part in shaping this once young child into a responsible, hard working adult that will always be able to take care not only of himself but also have the skills to independently provide and care for his own family in years to come. What a priceless gift we can give our children if we just take the TIME!

"Character" Is it caught or taught and whose job is it anyway?

2009-08-18T22:25:00.009-04:00

Well, It is that time of year again where all school age children will start back to school soon.
For many stay at home mothers it is a welcomed relief from having their children underfoot day in and day out. For others it is back to a more structured routine of chores and schoolwork. Summer days are fun but everyone will agree that order and routine are a healthy and welcomed reality. I am a homeschool mom and have chosen to school all of my children through High School. I have 1 left and can then retire after 26 years. It has been quite a journey along the way with ups and downs but through it all I would not take anything for being the primary influence in my children's lives. Whether or not you homeschool we as moms are called to be the primary influential person in our children's lives. Yes, reading ,writing and arithmetic are important but not as important as teaching a child character. This is something that is our responsibility as parents to instill in our children. It begins in the home with loving and nurturing parents that take the time to TEACH what it means to be, truthful, honest, obedient, hardworking, kind,selfless. patient, and the list goes on.
It is a purposeful effort on our part to teach and live these qualities out in front of them each day.
A good place to start is Gods word. Through parables and characters in the Bible you can teach your children how to live a life of integrity and moral conviction. To me this is what truly successful parenting is, not what grades they make in school or how well they preform in a sport. These are all well and good but it is the heart that really measures a successful life in the eyes of God. What comes from a childs heart will overflow into all the other areas of their life. This is just another confirmation of how important it is that this is taught in the home and not expected from teachers and youth and children workers.
I pray this will be a challenge to each of us this coming year as we seek to" Train up our children in the way they should go." I encourage you to seek out resources and plan time in your day to day lives to make this a priority. Men and women of good and Godly character will have world changing influence for generations to come! This is my prayer for my children I pray it is yours.

Ps If you go on the link to the left of my blog and click on the Duggar family. She has a great Character teaching chart you can use with your children. There are also great resources at Lifeway and Family Christain bookstores.

PSS. Check out my daughters blog and pray that these children will be taken into loving and caring familes. http://www.chadamberandjames.blogspot.com/

Being Kind "What it really means"

2009-08-13T22:46:00.005-04:00

I want to first begin with the definition of "Kindness: The joy of meeting someone else's needs before your own simply for the sake of the relationship." In these busy days and "Its all about me attitudes" even we as Christan's are guilty of not being kind. This tarnishes our witness for the Lord and can sometimes prevent us from ever being able to share Christ with an individual. Kindness is a heart matter and a choice. If we are going to become truly kind people ,we need to have a change of attitude. The false self of self centered living says" I'll be kind to you if you will be kind to me." The true self of authentic love says, " I'll be kind to you regardless of how you treat me." How do we experience a change of attitude so that we are inclined to be kind to others even when they are strangers or when we know them well and they treat us harshly? First we must realize that "kindness changes people" ,it softens a hard heart and tares down walls of hurt and despair. We need to express kindness as a way of life. Picture yourself putting on your coat of kindness each day. When we wear kindness as a part of our clothing, we don't stop to think about whether we should be kind in a certain situation. Wherever we go kindness is our constant companion. Pray that you will touch others with acts of kindness each and every day, expecting nothing in return. Be on mission and ask the Lord to show you specific people in your life that need a touch of kindness. We have countless opportunities to show kindness everyday, on the phone, at the drivethru, waiting in line and in your own home.
Make a point to do some specific out of the ordinary acts of kindness towards your husband ,children, neighbors and yes even your enemies. If acting kindly does not come natural to you it doesn't mean you are an unkind person it just means you need more practice. Be aware of the importance of your words. My mom always said "If you can't say anything nice don't say anything at all" There is a lot of wisdom in that saying. Do your words reflect a kind heart? Be quick to ask forgiveness for unkind words and pray that the Lord will fill you with kind and encouraging words for others. Kindness generates kindness. When we make kindness an intentional habit, we are more likely to see the worth and value of each person. As our new vision of people clarifies, we want to be kind simply because every person we meet has value and is worthy of affirmation. "Use me Lord to further your kingdom through my acts of kindness towards others." "Be ye kind one to another" Eph. 4:32