The Life I Now Live

Expired Coupons: Wait! Don't throw them away.

2010-05-10T11:19:00.000-07:00

For so many people, expired coupons end up in one place--the trash. But, wait! Don't throw them away. Military families overseas can use coupons that have expired for six months after the stated expired date.

If you are interested you can visit Overseas Coupon Program to adopt a base.

Some suggestions for preparing your coupons are:

Separate the coupons into two categories: food and non food
Clip the coupons removing any edging. (This helps to save on dead space when mailing.)
Get your community involved

This is a wonderful commuity service project for churches, schools, or community groups
Place boxes where people can easily drop off coupons.

So what do they do with the coupons once they receive them at the base?

Well, volunteers sort through them and place them on tables at the entrances to the exhange and commissary so that shoppers can choose the ones they like before shopping.

Is the postage tax-deductible?

Mailing the coupons is not tax-deductible, but rather a wonderful way to help other families.

Just a few resources

2010-04-25T13:57:00.000-07:00

When I first began making adjustments to living on one income, I first began using coupons, lists, and sticking to the buget. Then as time progressed, I started to become more aware off all the assistance that is available to help individuals and families spend frugally.

So I thought I would share with you just some of the resources that I use to help me with being more frugal minded.

BLOGS

There are several frugal blogs that I follow that provide daily deal updates. The ones that I regularly follow are:

Keeping the Kingdom First

A Proverbs Wife

Store Sites

There are several stores that provide coupons if you visit their site such as:

Target--The good thing about Target is that you can combine one of their store coupons with a manufacturer coupon

CVS

Food Lion

Publix--Publix accepts competitor store coupons to use in conjunction with a manufacturer coupon

BABY

If you have a baby, I would also recommend that you sign up for the baby programs at:

Winn Dixie

Publix

Food Lion

They often mail out coupons for items such as formula, baby food, etc.

Printable Coupons

Other printable online sites are

Coupon.com

Red Plum

Discounts

Often stores offer discounts for all sorts of groups such as students, seniors, or military. If they do not have a sign posted, ask the cashier.

There are several stores that offer military discounts.

Old Navy--1st of every month 10%

Walgreens--Tuesday of every week 15% off each item 20% off of Walgreen brands

Rack Room Shoes

Foot Locker

Hallmark--10%

I you have any good tips that you would love to share, please leave a message.

Living on one income

2010-04-13T04:51:00.000-07:00

It has been almost three years since Christ spoke to my husband and I regarding my transition from the workplace to a stay-at-home mom. I will admit that I had several apprehensions at first. One of the largest concerns I had was how were we going to maintain our lifestyle on just one income. Just the thought of how we were going to handle our finances would cause me to begin stressing and I was still working. Even then, Christ reminded me to trust Him. With each passing day, Christ has continued to be our provider. As for me, In addition to allowing my faith in Christ to grow, I have learned to be more frugal with how I shop.

Now, I have never been the big spender type. I have always thought multiple times before I would spend my money, but that does not mean I was still spending wisely. Being on one income, I wanted to move more wisely with what God had given us. That led me in several directions.

There are several techniques that I have been using that have been wonderful not only for our family, but has allowed us to be a bigger blessing to the lives of others. Over the last year, I save more than 50% or more with each shopping trip. This includes food, baby products, clothing, and more. For example, in one trip to CVS I purchased 1 pack of Huggie diapers, 1 pack of Huggie Pull-Ups, 2 Fuze drinks, 1 Avenno lotion, and 1 ROC facial cleanser for only $2.98 after coupons.

Strategies that currently work for me are:

Plan:

Each week, I try to plan out what shopping I plan to do for this week. My shopping usually is revolved around my weekly lunch and dinner meal plan for my family and whatever great deals I may see in the Sunday sales papers. I have a list for each store that plan to visit along with whatever coupons may match the deals.

If you have children, plan to take your snacks with you so that you are less likely to spend money on food based upon their hunger. Plus, it is hard to shop when you have one or more little ones complaining about being hungry.

Coupon:

Before becoming a stay-at-home mom, I used coupons here and there. If I had one great, if not oh well. Now, I don't go anywhere without my coupon bag. (Yes, I did say bag). Each Sunday, I purchase at least two newspapers so that I am able to get the weekly coupons. In addition, I visit the printable coupon sites such Coupon.com to see what other great coupons I can find. At first, I thought that couponing could not make that much of a difference until I started seeing the difference at check out.

Organize

My system has been revamped multiple times as I am learning what works best for me. As a mom of four boys, it is a rare treat if I am able to go shopping alone; therefore, I have learned how to organize my space and time so that I am able to shop and keep the little ones happy. I have created an organize system for my coupons, for my reusable bags, and how I take care of my stockpile of items. In addition, I have a corkboard that I use to help me keep up with the rebates that I have sent in.

Subscribe

There are so many wonderful blogs and websites that are designed to help you save your money while being able to enjoy the items you love to have. Instead of spending my time going to each site, I have subscribed to their site and get their updates in my email. This is great and simple for me. So when I have time, I am able to sit and go through what I need while not taking up too much of my time.

Rebates

If a product offers a rebate mail it off. Just this past week I received a $15 rebate from Olay for purchasing three of their products. I only spent $3.52 out of pocket to purchase the items that I already use but was able to get a $15 rebate making my purchase not only free but a profit of $11.48. Be sure to read the requirements carefully and mail it off as soon as possible.

Transitions

2010-03-26T06:30:00.000-07:00

My little one is growing up. At 6 months, we decided to let him try a sippy cup to begin the transition off of the bottle. I was simply amazed at how well and how quickly he took to it. When I first put it in his hands, I watched him look at it, look at me, put it in his mouth and then take it out. He knew it was different. Then after a few moments, he absolutely loved it. So much so that whenever I would give him the bottle, he would push it to the side. After about a week, he wouldn't even take the bottle at all. Regardless to how hungry he was, if his milk was not in a cup then he wouldn't drink it.

Watching my children grow up, sometimes it is easy to identify the transition they have going from the "baby" to the "big boy" stages. They let you know they don't want their bottle, but instead want a cup. They let you know they don't want a pull-up, they want big boy underwear like daddy. They will eagerly share that they can "do it all by myself".

Yet, sometimes we get in the way of the transitions that we go through as adults to lay aside those things that hinder us from going to the next level . We can miss walking in a new level of faith because we want to hold on when it is time to let go. We can try to hold on to that bottle, which may be fear, rather than graduate to the next step because at least we are familiar with where we are than to go to the unknown. We each have those areas of childish things that hinder us from growing up in Christ. It up to us to decide if we are will to grow up. When we are then Christ is always right there to help guide us through.

"When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me." 1 Corinthians 13: 11 NIV

No more armadillos

2010-03-01T18:57:00.000-08:00

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.” 1 Peter 5: 8-9 NIV

Devotional for March 1-7, 2010

Early this week while driving along, I happen to catch a glimpse of some sort of animal walking along the sidewalk. At first, I wasn’t sure what it was, but then much to my amazement, it was an armadillo. Outside of the zoo, I have never seen an armadillo in person. I was quite excited about my recent sight and even more surprised that it was walking about during the daytime. Actually, I think I was more surprised to see it given where we live.

Armadillos are interesting little creatures with their hard shells, strong claws, and a keen sense of smell. Although they are small animals, they can do quite a bit of damage. These animals are known to use their small claws and legs to dig burrows under all sorts of environments that are dark and preferably next to water. Given the influx of building, many armadillos have resorted to burrowing under sheds, homes, porches, businesses, even driveways. In an effort to find a place to live and to get to food to thrive, armadillos will enter foundation openings or create a space in order to have some place to live. Since these animals are poor climbers, it is quite common for them to fall inside of the borrow under a home, business, etc. causing them to become trapped which eventually leads to their death. This then results in a foul smell that permeates throughout the structure. When a home or business becomes infested with an armadillo, the appreciation value of the home decreases by 5 sometimes 10 %. This does not include the fact that armadillos carry the bacteria that can cause leprosy and salmonella, or contribute to a person or animal contracting rabies or tapeworms.

Unfortunately, we can have armadillos in our lives. We can minimize the impact of relationships that have begun to create a toxic build up in our walk with Christ by being distracters simply hiding those familiar spirits that have caused us to sin in the past. Our armadillos can be pride in which we find ourselves constantly focused on what “I do” and “If it were not for me”. The armadillos in our lives may even be the condition of our hearts in which we have allowed bitterness to creep into our foundation creating a separation between Christ and ourselves. The armadillos in our lives are simply those areas that seek to separate us from our relationship with Christ.

When we do not go to Christ or are obedient to His Word, we allow sin to come into the foundation of our relationship. If we do not repent, then those areas only become worsen and lead to other sort of problems. For bitterness will lead to anger and in some cases lead to hatred. Just like the armadillo not only creates problems but can inflect others, we are able to inflect others with our nasty attitudes, sinful mannerisms, and coldness of heart. It is up to us to decide to allow Christ to be our pest control and purge us of those areas that only will lead to more destruction.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, who is the source of all that I am, I am thankful to be able to call upon your name. Lord, I pray that you may reveal to me those areas in my life that separate me from you. Show me the relationships, the choice, the areas that lie within me that are distracters. I pray for wisdom to know when to move, who to allow in my live, and what decisions you would have me to make. Forgive me Lord for those things that I have done as a result of sin. I pray that you may continue to renew my mind and keep my feet on the path that you have set for me. Lord I pray that I may not be judgmental or condescending toward others, but instead help me to be patient and show compassion. I love you Lord, in Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading

Monday 1 Peter 5: 8-9

Tuesday Ephesians 6: 11-14

Wednesday Romans 6: 12-23

Thursday Ephesians 4: 26-27

Friday James 4: 7

Saturday Proverbs 2: 27

Sunday 1 John 1: 7-10

Application

Allow God to remove the armadillos in your life.

If you would like to receive these weekly devotionals, click here.

Free Photo book for our Troops

2010-02-22T17:46:00.000-08:00

As a military wife, I am always thankful for the opportunities that are provided to our troops. This new program is a wonderful way to brighten the day of any deployed loved one. Plus it is free!

According to the website:

"This amazing new program is designed to provide comfort and support for our troops stationed anywhere with an APO/FPO or MPO mailing address. You can make a 20 page soft cover photo book using your own digital pictures and send it to your family and friends far from home. Each free book can contain approximately 50-60 photos. The USO even pays for the shipping! It’s a $17 value, ABSOLUTELY FREE*.

Each book is 5 x 7 and includes 20 pages (additional pages available at extra cost). It's designed to be lightweight and fit neatly into fatigue cargo pockets. It’s a great way to share memories of home with those far away."

Click here to visit the site.

Thanks Thrifty Tiff for sharing.

So in love

2010-02-08T18:41:00.000-08:00

“37Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' 38This is the first and greatest commandment. 39And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' 40All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." Matthew 22: 37-40 NIV

Devotional for February 8-14, 2010

In my mind, I can still recall that very first moment my eyes met with his. Oh, how handsome he was standing there smiling at me as if he had waited his whole life for that moment. Yes, I recall the butterflies that tickled my belly with excitement from the first moment we met, to the moment he professed his love for me, even to the moment I became his wife. Even now, that excitement still flutters when I hear him come through our front door. That excitement still flourishes each time I hear him say those three wonderful words, “I love you”.

Before meeting my husband, I really did not quite understand the love that can exist between a husband and a wife. I didn’t understand the connection that grows from that love. When my husband came into my life, I had never had any man love me so unconditionally that he could see my faults but still choose to love me anyway. I was/am amazed at how much love lives in his heart for me. Yet, I understand now that his ability to love me overflows from his ability to love God.

As people are preparing to celebrate or cringe over an upcoming Valentine’s day, I started reflecting what it means to be in love with God. People are going to buy all sorts of items to find that perfect gift that shows their love. Hallmark and American Greetings have hired all sorts of writers to capture those special words that convey just how much others mean to us. But when was the last time we gave Christ a valentine? What do we do to show God and others that we are so in love with Him?

Here in Matthew 22: 37-40, Jesus provides us with very clear ways to show our love for Him. We are to love Christ above everyone and everything else. Our love for Him should come before our love for our spouses, our children, our careers, everything. He guides us to love Him with all our heart or our affections. We are to love Him with all of our soul, or rather life. Out of our love for Him we will give our lives for Him in time, service, and obedience. Simply, we choose to live our life in His will. He guides us to love Him with our mind. Then out of the love we have for Him we are able to love others.

When we are in love with a person, we crave to be near them; to know all we can about them; to tell everyone about that special person. Being in love with Christ is no different. Our love for Him should cause us to crave to be near Him through prayer, devotion, worship, and praise. Our love should drive us to learn all we can about Him. To know more about Him we are to seek Him above all else. When we are in love with Christ, we can’t help but tell others about Him. We will want others to know the joy and the peace we have found in our Heavenly Father.

Prayer
My Heavenly Father, who is my creator, my provider, my healer, my director, my all—there just does not seem a way worthy enough to thank you for being who you are in my life. With each day that passes, I am in more awe over who you are. There is never a moment that you are not in perfect control over every situation. I thank you that you seek to have everything for my good. Lord, I am so thankful to be a receiver of your love and I pray that my love for you may grow with each moment of every day. Show me how to draw closer to you in every area and every relationship in my life. I want to allow my love for you to grow so vast that it touches everything that I touch. Thank you for loving me so much that you sent your son to die on the cross for my sins. Lord, your love overwhelms me. I love you so much, in Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Matthew 22: 37-40
Tuesday John 14: 21-24
Wednesday Deuteronomy 10: 12
Thursday 1 Corinthians 13: 1-13
Friday Mark 12: 32-24
Saturday Deuteronomy 6: 5
Sunday Luke 6: 27-35

Application
Fall more in love with Christ and allow that love to overflow to others.

Seemed Right

2010-02-01T17:22:00.000-08:00

"The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice." Proverbs 12: 15 NIV

Devotional for Feb. 1-7, 2010

Tears were flowing down his cheeks as he struggled to pull it loose. The more he struggled the tighter the knot became. He yanked. He grunted. He was frustrated. Yet, in spite of all of that, he would not ask for help. I sat in the kitchen watching our four year old try desperately to get his balloon string unattached to a toy that he was using as an anchor. Determined to do it on his own, he would not ask me for help.

So there I sat, watching and waiting. Seeing his tears, I thought surely he would take my help. Gently I asked, "Baby, do you want me to help you?" "No, I can do it myself" was his quick reply. Again, I just continued to sit and watch. Then it happened. The toy broke and the balloon was still attached. It was after realizing that he had broken the toy that he came to me saying, "Momma, will you please help me? I broke it. Can you fix it?" Standing there with the broken toy in his hand, he came to me with tears in his eyes and outstretched hands. He came to me with expectancy.

It just amazes me how one situation with a child can speak volumes to our relationship with Christ. There have been too many times in my life where I have continued to try to handle things on my own. I foolishly told myself that I can handle this or I have this under control. At no point did I go to God, because in my mind, I didn't need the help. Not only did I not see the need to go to God, I didn't see the point in even heeding the guidance of those God had placed in my life to counsel me. Unfortunately, it wasn't until something broke like my heart or a relationship that I realized that I needed God's help.

I can just imagine that God often sits and waits for us to finally get to the point in which we get past ourselves, or rather our pride, and come to Him for direction, for help, for strength. Just as I reached out to our four year old, God too reaches out to us. He provides for us His Word, the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and the counsel of our pastors, teachers, and others anointed/appointed to speak life into our lives. It is up to us to humbly submit ourselves to His direction when we seek Him in our personal devotion time, in prayer, and in His word. We don't have to wait until something is broken before we seek Him, but if that happens we serve a God that is always available to us. It is never too late to submit ourselves to His will if we are willing to come to Him with a repentant heart.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, I cannot thank you enough for being there with me every step of the way. Thank you for being there even when I didn't realize that I needed you in my life. Lord I pray that you continue to guide me in every way and in every area of my life. Lord I do not seek to solve any problem on my own, instead, I want you. I want your direction, your will, your peace. Guide me on this path so that I do not focus on what things may seem like but instead I continue to press toward the mark of the high calling. Thank you Lord that you have fashioned a plan and a purpose for me. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Proverbs 12: 15
Tuesday James 4: 10
Wednesday 1 Peter 5: 6
Thursday Proverbs 13: 10
Friday Proverbs 16: 18
Saturday Ephesians 2: 9
Sunday Proverbs 11: 2

Application
Choose to place your situation in God's hand instead of your own hands.

Seeking

2010-01-25T17:53:00.000-08:00

"8 Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. 9 Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. 10 Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. 11 Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. 12 Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced, 13 O descendants of Israel his servant, O sons of Jacob, his chosen ones." 1 Chronicles 16: 8-13 NIV

Devotional for January 25-31, 2010

Just as I was leaving the house, already five minutes late, my keys were nowhere to be found. I looked in my normal key keeping spot, nothing. Off I went to dig through my already full purse, and still nothing. I searched my bedroom, the bathroom, and even back in the car. Getting frustrated, I still could not find my keys. Where in the world could they be?

I don't know about you, but that little scenario has happened to me on more than one occasion. Plus, it always seems to happen when I am running behind to be somewhere. Of course, I guess I could just stop looking for them, but those keys are essential. But keys aren't the only things we diligently look for, especially when we think we are missing something we need. How many of us spent time seeking to find that one special person to love? Or spend our time seeking to find ways to make more money? We can put forth all sorts of time and effort searching for all sorts of things.

Yet, how often are we seeking draw closer to God? With the demands of daily living, it can become all too easy to just place God on standby, but God wants different for us. When we seek God through reading his word, worship, and prayer, He promises us:

Strength: "Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always." Psalm 105:4 NIV
Security: "One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple" Psalm 27:4 NIV
Provision: "33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33 NIV
Revelation: "'Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.'" Jeremiah 33:3 NIV
Rewards: "6And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him" Hebrews 11: 6 NIV

In seeking God, we build a more intimate relationship with Christ. In this relationship, we come to know Him beyond the clichés. We come to know Him as Lord and Savior. It is in seeking Him that we come to learn more about who we are, who we are created to be, and what His will is for our lives. If we can seek to have the degrees to further our careers or knowledge, why not seek the one who is able to provide increase regardless of qualifications or who is able to provide understanding with the knowledge? If we can seek to find the "one", why not seek the ONE? If we can seek to gain the things, why not seek the one who is able to provide all our needs and above our needs? I encourage us all to take more time each day seeking more of Him.

Prayer
My loving and merciful creator, I humbly come before you with thanksgiving in my heart. I give you all honor and glory Lord, for without you there is no life. Thank you Lord for giving me understanding with the knowledge. Thank you for providing strength during the times I feel weak. Help me Lord to continue to seek your face in every area of my life. There is no situation too big, no person so important, no priority higher than you. Forgive me Lord for placing anything or anyone as a priority in my life above my relationship with you. I desire to draw closer to you. I desire to have a more intimate relationship than ever before. In the name of Jesus I pray, amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday 1 Chronicles 16: 11
Tuesday Psalm 105:4
Wednesday Psalm 27:4
Thursday Hebrews 11: 6
Friday Jeremiah 33:3
Saturday Matthew 6: 33
Sunday Proverbs 8: 17

Application
Spend more time each day seeking more of Christ.

To receive weekly devotionals via email, click here.

Still Up

2010-01-18T18:57:00.000-08:00

“I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? 2 My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. 3 He will not let your foot slip— he who watches over you will not slumber; 4 indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. 5 The LORD watches over you— the LORD is your shade at your right hand; 6 the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; 8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” Psalm 121 NIV

Devotional for January 18-24, 2010

It is almost midnight and I am still up. Now, at one point, I could have said that my late night hours were simply due to being a night owl, but when you have four boys, with three of them being under 5, you come to learn to get as much as sleep as you can when you can. Needless to say, I was ready to turn it in for the night when our 5 month old suddenly began throwing up in his sleep. This was not just a little spit up, but rather all 8 ounces of milk coming back up. Formula was everywhere, but our little one just wanted to go back to sleep.

Quickly getting up, I turn him on his side. Once our little one was finished, I knew that my night was far from being over. Time ticked by as I removed his clothing and his bedding. It continued ticking as I washed him, placing fresh clothing on his body. Then off I went to the laundry to begin washing at 11 pm, only to return to find a dirty diaper that was now waiting to be changed. It wasn’t until almost midnight that I was able to finally have the little one back sound asleep, clean, and calm.

As I walked back to my room from the laundry room, I just chuckled to myself. How many nights have I found myself up taking care of the children way into the night ensuring that they are alright? How many nights have I stayed awake holding them in my arms, keeping them close while I comfort them from their aches and pains? Thinking of how I have cared for my own children, I began to think of how Christ has and continues to care for us. I thought of my own areas of sickness that have come in the form of sin, in which He has been there to care for me. There have been so many times that Christ has cared for me in His arms helping me to heal from the aches and pains of life that I have encountered that sought to keep me discouraged, blind, and burdened. No matter how damaged I was, Christ has always been there for me with open arms for me to come as I was.

Although our bodies tire, thankfully, Christ is never does. He never sleeps. He is in all places at all times. So, He is there when we cry tears in the midnight hours. He is there when we are on the job. He is there when we are praying by the hospital bed. He is there when we don’t know how the bills are going to be paid. He is there when we lay our loved ones to rest. When we put our trust in Him, we are able to lay our heads to rest and trust that He is still up watching over us.

Prayer
Awesome and loving Father, I am so thankful that as I go about my day, you are always with me. You are my strength when I am weak. You are my guide along my path. You are a present help in a time of trouble. Thank you Lord for always being with me even when I don’t always realize that I need to reach out to you. Thank you for being my protector, my provider, my healer, my everything. I seek to continue to use everything I have to glorify you. Forgive me for trying to “help you out”. Instead I pray that I may seek you in all things and continue to be humbly submitted to your will. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Psalm 121
Tuesday Psalm 41: 2
Wednesday Isaiah 40: 26
Thursday 1 Peter 5: 6-7
Friday Psalm 4: 8
Saturday Psalm 127: 3
Sunday Jeremiah 33:3

Application
Trust that God is continuing to work on your behalf regardless of how things may seem.

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Up ahead

2010-01-11T06:50:00.000-08:00

“A man’s heart deviseth his way; but the Lord directeth his steps” Proverbs 16: 9 KJV

Devotional for January 11-17, 2010

The other day while driving on my way home from running errands, I sat listening to the traffic update on the radio. The announcer was stating that there was an accident on I-95, which closed one lane, so expect a delay if you were planning to get off on certain exits. It just so happened that one of the exits she listed was mine. Determined not to sit in lengthy traffic when it was getting close to dinner time while there were three very hungry boys in the back seats already complaining about “starving”, a decision had to be made. I decided to accept the warning and prepare to make a detour that would keep me away from the trouble ahead and get me home within a decent time.

For those who are morning commuters or for those who are eagerly trying to get home, having information about lanes that are closed, accidents, or traffic jams are particularly important. Knowing where delays are on your way to work, appointment, or school is helpful especially when you might have slept just a little too late or just couldn’t find that other shoe. It can change what stops you might plan to make or if you think you have enough gas to get you there. Ah, yes, those traffic updates can make a world of difference.

While I continued listening to the announcer, I began thinking on how God directs our steps while on this spiritual journey. He provides direction for us and enables us to recognize those incidents that can hinder us and/or take us off His path. He gives us warnings to take detours that help us in reaching our destination even though we may now have to take a different route. Those detours are available and revealed to us through the Word of God when we submit ourselves to His will, listen to guidance of the Holy Spirit, obey, and/or receive help from those God has placed in our lives to give us wise counsel. There can be delays in the form of unhealthy relationships, unassigned tasks, or excess weight. There can be accidents, some fatal, that come as a result of disobedience, doubt, and/or an unforgiving heart. Or even jams that may look like anger, pride, or bitterness.

Some lanes, or doors, may even be closed unless we repent for the sin that has caused us to stray from the path He created for us. It is God’s desire that we make it to the end of the journey, but He gives us the freedom of choice to trust and obey or doubt and disobey. It is up to us to choose to follow His path in obedience as He directs our steps. When we do, we are never forsaken and no weapon formed against us can prosper. We are more than conquerors to him who believes.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, it is a privilege to be able to come to you in prayer knowing that as I speak you are there listening to every thing I have to say. I cannot thank you enough for being with me in the moments of joy and being there to wipe every tear when I am hurting. Lord, I thank you for ever person you have put in my life to guide me along the path you have created for me. I pray that I may listen to the prompting of the Holy Spirit in every situation possible. I continue to submit my will for yours. Have your way in every area of my life. For I know that it is you who gives me strength, peace, and joy in spite of every situation around me. I love you Lord and I am thankful that you first loved me. In Jesus name, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Proverbs 16: 9
Tuesday Proverbs 3: 5-6
Wednesday 2 Thessalonians 3: 5
Thursday Psalm 37: 3-5
Friday Hebrews 6: 17
Saturday Jeremiah 10: 23
Sunday Proverbs 19: 21

Application
When making decisions, be obedient to the guidance of Christ.

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Shaking it off

2010-01-04T18:31:00.000-08:00

Devotional for January 4-10, 2010

"Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall." Psalm 55:22

In a household full of boys, there are bound to be multiple cuts, bruises and falls. I cannot count the number of bumps and scratches that I have had to nurse, kiss, and pray over. Before becoming a mom, I really did not realize just how easy it is that kids hurt themselves. Often times, they get hurt just by tripping over their own feet. Yet, when it happens, I have been known to use one very well-known phrase, "Just get up and shake it off".

Just shake it off. Those four simple words are often our ways of teaching others not to allow that small something to be a stumbling block. It becomes our way of teaching that this is not something to be hurt by, to be distracted by, or in many cases, not even worth putting any attention to it. Actually in many cases, the phrase "shake it off" is often our way of saying "get over it", "move on", or "forget about him/her". So often my friends and I have guided each other to just forget about the most recent failed relationship in an effort to help each other heal or feel better about our pain. In our effort to guide others by just shaking it off, we can teach them to what is contrary to the Word.

Guiding others to shake it off in various situations is not the problem as long as we are applying what the Word guides us to do. When we experience heartache, disappointment, failure, it isn't enough to just shake it off. Instead we are guided to cast it on the Lord. By casting it, or rather giving it to Him, we remove the weight of our emotions and trust in Him instead. Why would God even bother guiding us to put our cares, concerns, and worries in His care if He didn't already know that these things would come? He knew that we would experience them, but He provides us all a way in which to walk through them in a spiritually mature way.

When we cast our care upon the Lord, He is big enough to not only care the weight but to also carry us through it. Casting our cares upon the Lord is a release from our need to be in control and to truly trust that He has everything in control. When we do, he gives us a freedom from the weight of the burden. So we don't just have to shake it off, instead we are able to be whole, complete, lacking nothing. His word promises us that by casting our cares on Him, He will sustain us through it all. We don't have to just "get over it" instead, God guides us on how to learn, how to grow, and how to be able to help others from the lessons we learn from our trials.

There is no burden to small that it cannot be taken to God. What better way to start teaching our children than when they stumble? Instead of telling them to get up and shake it off, we can take that teachable moment to guide them to take that pain to God. When your friends come to you from heartache or maybe anger from a situation at work, instead of guiding them to just "move on" guide them to cast it upon the Lord.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am truly thankful to be your child. I thank you that there is no burden in my life that is too heavy for you to carry. I am grateful that I am able to go to you at all times and you are always there. Help me to continue to apply your word to every area of my life. I pray that your Word may continue to live in me and that I may be a living example of you before others.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Psalm 55:22
Tuesday Isaiah 12:2
Wednesday Psalm 46:1
Thursday Proverbs 4:20-22
Friday Matthew 6: 34
Saturday Matthew 11:28-30
Sunday Romans 12:2

Application
When burdens come your way, cast them to Christ.

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Work out

2009-12-28T12:26:00.000-08:00

Devotional for December 28, 2009-January 3, 2010

“19) What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of Go, and ye are not your own? 20) For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s”. 1 Corinthians 6: 19-20 KJV

Another new year is once again coming our way. Just yesterday, while looking through the papers, I saw all sorts of exercise equipment on sale for those individuals who are planning to begin their new year with a new exercise regimen. Gyms are offering a variety of no monthly fees, free months, great new classes to bring in those new members who are planning to start fresh in the new year. Even I have plans for a work out schedule that I have hopes of executing in the new year.

Yet, while we do all the planning to get our physical bodies in shape, we should also be just as vigilant in working out the spiritual man in us. Let’s begin the new year by working out our faith as well. Just like there are workout plans for the physical man, God has provided a work out for the believer as well. Some of His plan for us requires us to:

Seek: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you” Matthew 6: 33
Pray: “Pray without ceasing” 1 Thessalonians 5: 17
Hear: “Wherefore, my beloved bretheren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” James 1: 19
Do: “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves” James 1: 22
Love: “This is my command, That ye love one another, as I have loved you” John 15: 12

These are but a few of exercises that we can do to live a life that is pleasing unto God. Each day we have the opportunity to exercise love to others regardless of whether they are able to return our love. We are able to exercise our prayer lives by praying for those who are lost, those who are hurting, and those that are sick. We are able to exercise our faith by trusting God in knowing that He alone is able to be our provider, our guide, and our Savior.

Prayer
Most heavenly and gracious Father, I am eternally grateful for your presence in my life. I am thankful to have your Word to guide me through every path. I don’t have to worry about having all the answers or focus on those things to come, for you have already worked everything to my good. Lord, I pray that I continue to build my relationship with you each day. I pray that I continue to exercise faith in all situations regardless of how they may seem. Thank you Lord for the teachers, the pastors, the evangelists, the prophets, and the apostles that you have raised up to help us as we continue to run the race of faith. Forgive me Lord for placing anything or anyone before you. I pray that my life may glorify you in all ways. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday 1 Corinthians 6: 19-20
Tuesday Mathew 6: 33
Wednesday 1 Thessalonians 5: 17
Thursday James 1: 19
Friday James 1: 22
Saturday John 15: 12
Sunday Proverbs 6: 3-4

Application
Spend time each day building your relationship with Christ.

Free

2009-12-21T08:04:00.000-08:00

16"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him” John 3: 16-17 NIV

I am a couponer. Each week, I take some time to gather my coupons from the Sunday paper as well as subscribing to various websites that provide me with online printable coupons. As a matter of fact, I very rarely go out without my coupon bag placed somewhere within my vehicle. Most of my friends often laugh when they mention going to the store to get something and I quickly state, “Wait. I think I have a coupon for that”.

I have learned how to continue to use the products my family enjoys without paying the large prices. There have been several times when I have purchased over $100 worth of groceries for less than $10. The best shopping experiences are when I am able to purchase the items we use for FREE. Who doesn’t like to get something free? Since I have begun couponing, I have been able to take some of the items I have gotten free and donate them to other people and families. It is wonderful to be able to not only benefit from my frugal shopping, but it is even better to be able to bless others with it as well.

Most people love the idea of being able to get something free. What most people don’t realize about those free coupons is that, we may be getting the item free but the company has paid the price for that coupon to be available to us. The company is the one that is responsible for paying the cost with the varying stores so that the customer may benefit.

Well, it is similar with Christ. We often overlook one of the greatest treasures available to us personally and to share with others. We each have the opportunity to receive Christ as our Lord and Savior freely. We don’t have to wait until we get ourselves “right”. We don’t have to be a certain age. We don’t have to perform works in exchange for the benefits. All we have to do to receive Christ freely is to confess with our mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in our heart that God hath raised him from the dead and we shall be saved. Jesus paid the price in full for our sins when He died for all of us on the cross. In that action, He showed just how much He loved us then and continues to love us. It is up to us to decide if we are willing to accept Him in our lives as our Lord and Savior. Then all benefits become available to us. Praise God for Jesus!

Prayer
My Heavenly Father, I am very thankful for the sacrifice you sent for me. I thank you for Jesus shedding His blood for my sins. Thank you for the ones who prayed for me when I didn’t have an intimate relationship with you. I pray that I may continue to spread your gospel everywhere I go, bringing others closer to you. May I always be humble in service to you. Everything I have and everything I am, it is for your glory and your service. I pray that I may be sensitive to the prompting of the Holy Spirit in building your Kingdom. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday John 3: 12-18
Tuesday Job 31: 6
Wednesday Proverbs 15: 9
Thursday Psalm 16: 11
Friday Jeremiah 25: 5
Saturday Proverbs 17: 3
Sunday Psalm 26: 2

Application
If you have accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior, take time to celebrate Him being the head of your life. And . . . bless others by sharing Jesus (just like sharing coupons with others).

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Brother's keeper

2009-12-18T17:44:00.000-08:00

Watching how my older three boys have embraced our newest little one just warms my heart. In particular, Mr. P our two year old has taken it upon himself to be his brother’s keeper. If little P even whimpers, Mr. P is calling my name. He quickly tries to find out what is wrong and provide comfort. It common for me to find Mr. P holding his little brother’s hand, walking to the bassinet to watch him sleep, or place a kiss on his little cheek. He wants to make sure that his little brother is safe, happy, and comfortable.

While watching his sometimes, overly helpful, actions, I found myself reflecting on how we are to be with our brothers and sisters in Christ. Too often, it is easy to be detached from others even those in our local churches. We get caught up in our own world, or even say to ourselves, “That’s not my business.”

Yet, we are connected together. In watching our 2 year old feel so compelled to be concerned about his little brother, we ought to be concerned when we see others hurting or in need. Sometimes we can carry such a hardened heart, that when the Holy Spirit prompts us to give of our time, a kind word, our money, or our time in prayer, we don’t. You see, the root of Mr. P’s actions for his little brother is prompted out of his love. If we continue to carry out the love of Christ for others, then we won’t mind being used to be a blessing to help others.

Pop Ups

2009-12-05T12:51:00.000-08:00

Periodically, I receive pop-up reminders on my computer to update certain programs, remember particular dates, or are reminders to try new products. Usually, with this reminders they offer at least two options:

Option one: Update now, send now, purchase now. Regardless, this option provides you with the chance to do something NOW
Option two: Remind me later, sometimes they even allow you to choose the time frame that you want to receive said reminders.

There are times in our walk with Christ that we too are provided with the pop up reminders through the presence of the Holy Spirit. It is during these times that we are prompted to do or, in some cases, not to do something. Right then, we have at least two options. We can be odendient to the prompting of the Holy Spirit NOW like in option one. When we choose option one, we realize that obedience is better than sacrifice. We have chosen to submit ourselves to the will of God. We have made a choice to trust God. Yet, there is still option 2. Now, I would like to say that I always choose option one, but there are times that I know what I am guided to do but I still choose to handle things my own way. In option two, it is like saying, "Yeah, I know I am suppose to forgive, but you just don't know what she did to me"; or "I know that I am suppose to tithes, but I will get to it later". In the option two, we try to justify our behaviors to make ourselves feel that it is okay to do what we are doing.

As we continue our walk with Christ, we will always have a choice in which option we choose. Thankfully, God is a forgiving God. So when we choose option two, to handle things on our own, to choose disobedience, we are able to go to Him and repent of our wrong doings.

Thank God that he has given us the Holy Spirit to be that guide, but it is still our choice to choose option one or option two.

No More Lines

2009-11-30T18:59:00.000-08:00

Devotional for November 30-Dec. 6, 2009

"Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light,and your justice as the noonday." Psalm 37: 3-6 NIV

Watching my children develop has been quite an adventure for me. Recently, my two year has been going through his independence stage. One of his favorite sayings is, "I can do it by myself." So each day, we go through a series of activities in which he wants to do it without any of my help. It is not until he has the epiphany that he is unable to complete the task on his own that he cries out for help.

His very simplistic act spoke volumes to my spirit. So many of us, as believers, are often like my two year old. We have the areas in our lives in which we feel that we can control on our own. Then there are those areas that are too big for us, or are outside of our control, that we then cry out to God for help. Sadly, there should not be that distinction. We have created a line of I can do this myself and God because I can't do that I need your help.

Christ wants us to put EVERYTHING in His care; not just the things we cannot handle. There is anything too small or anything too big for Him to handle. We just need to learn how to take our hands off, stop trying to be in control, and trust that God knows what is best in every situation. Because the more we allow ourselves to foolishly think we can handle things on our own, we can allow a prideful even a disobedient spirit to creep in. We can begin to trust more in ourselves, our abilities, our credentials instead of going to God in all areas of our lives.

All throughout the Bible are scriptures which encourage us to TRUST in the Lord. The more we trust in Him, the more it is Him who moves in our lives. The more we can be lead of the Holy Spirit and less on our emotions. The more we are able to live our lives fulfilling His divine purpose for us instead of seeking vain pursuits. We must make the choice to remove the line, or rather the boundaries, we place on our relationship with God. It is up to us to say Lord you are welcome in every area and allow Him into even our most secret place. When we do, He will guide us every step of the way.

Prayer
My loving Lord and Savior, when I think how you shower me with your mercy and grace each day my heart overflows. Lord, please forgive me for trying to handle things on my own instead of surrendering every area of my life to you. It is my desire to have you guide in all ways and to lean on you and not in my own understanding. I thank you that even when I don't understand the big picture, you already know the beginning, middle, and end of every matter. Help me Lord to continue to trust you and to not move in fear. I thank you Lord, in the name of Jesus, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Psalm 37:3-7
Tuesday Psalm 91
Wednesday Psalm 22: 4-5
Thursday Proverbs 3: 5-6
Friday Isaiah 12: 1-2
Saturday Jeremiah 17: 5-8
Sunday Isaiah 26: 3-4

Application
Choose to give God all areas of your life.

Truly Thankful

2009-11-23T16:59:00.000-08:00

Devotional for November 23-29, 2009

"1) Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. 2) Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. 3) Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. 4) Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. 5)For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations." Psalm 100 NIV

This week people all across the United States will be gathering together to celebrate in the Thanksgiving holiday. Students anxiously await being released from school, while grandparents eagerly await until the moment they hear the footsteps of their grands come walking through the door. Dinners will begin being prepared early in the morning as seasoned football fans cheer on their favorite teams.

Thanksgiving is an old tradition for our country that dates back as far as 1621, when after a year of sickness, disease and death, the pilgrims set aside three days in December to praise the Lord. Later on, President George Washington changed the date to November 26 as a national day of Thanksgiving to the Lord as a response to Christ granting them independence from Britain. As years passed President Abraham Lincoln later revived the tradition to what it currently is today. You see, even then, the people realized the importance of setting time aside for giving thanks until the Lord. Unfortunately, the holiday, like so much, has become commercialized centered around food, football, and the ultimate shopping day--Black Friday.

Can you imagine how we would feel if people only showed appreciation to us for what we have done one day a year? How do you think that would impact your relationships? Well, why do so many of us hold on to our thanksgiving to Christ? In Psalm 100, the psalmist presents a call of worship and praise before the Lord. He challenges us to praise God in our words, in our service, and with singing. Offering praise and thanksgiving to God is not meant to be drab devoid of expression; instead it is reason for rejoicing.

As I reflect on the goodness of Christ in my life, I realize just how much I have to thank God for. You see, it isn't just about praising God for the blessings or favor, but it is also about thanking Him for grace and mercy in the trying times. I realize that every time I fussed about the person who almost hit me while I was driving is a chance to praise God for protecting me. It is about praising God that when I didn't have enough, He was able to provide. Truly, it is about being thankful that in spite of who I was, He loved me anyway. So, while you find yourself preparing the turkey, driving to visit loved ones, or even watching some football, take time out throughout your day to give thanks until the Lord for He has done mighty things.

Prayer
Awesome and loving Father, I am always amazed at your capacity to love me. When I think of how much you continue to be my strength, my provider, my healer, I am just full of thanksgiving and praise. Lord, there are not enough words that I could say to show my thankfulness for shedding your blood on calary for me, but I am eternally thankful. Thank you Lord for every person who has interceded for me. Thank you Lord that you have forgiven me and created in me a new creature in Christ. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading
Monday Psalm 100
Tuesday Psalm 96
Wednesday Psalm 103
Thursday Psalm 111
Friday Hebrews 13: 5
Saturday 1 Peter 1: 18
Sunday Galatians 5: 9

Application
Spend time reflecting and giving God praise for all He has done for you.

Thanksgiving has presents

2009-11-15T09:55:00.000-08:00

While learning about Thanksgiving at school, my four year old cheerfully came home pronouncing, “Mommy we get presents at Thanksgiving.” Of course, my first thought was to sit down with him and explain that at Thanksgiving we do not get presents, but rather a time a time of giving thanks. Yet, he was right. At Thanksgiving, we have the opportunity to give so much.

During this season, we have the opportunity of giving the gift of forgiveness to those who may have hurt or misused us. We have the opportunity to give the gift of love not just to those who are able to return such love but also even to our enemies. We have the opportunity to give the gift of a Godly example by showing our family, our friends, our coworkers the joy in serving Christ. We have the opportunity to give the gift of our time by helping out in our community or our church in service. Most importantly, we can take this season to share with others Christ.

So, my little one was right. How about this Thanksgiving, we give choose to give presents.

My Lap

2009-11-01T12:14:00.000-08:00

Today while watching a little television, my lap was covered with children. We sat there on the loveseat as I held the baby in my arms while the two year old and four year old both clamored to get a piece of my lap. The more they each tried, the less room there was. Eventually, they figured out there wasn’t enough room for the both of them and that they would just have to take turns.

But. . .

But with God, we don’t have to take turns to get His attention, to gain out time in His lap, or to draw close to Him. Christ is so large and so awesome that we all are able to clamor to Him whenever we want. He is wonderful enough to have arms to hold all of us. His lap is big enough that we all can climb up and get close to him. How magnificent it is to serve a God that is so much more than we could ever be!

On my heels

2009-10-08T13:50:00.000-07:00

The other day, no matter where I went or what I was doing my 2 year old and 4 year old wanted to be right there. Sometimes they were so close to me that I would stumble just trying to walk from one place to the other. There wasn’t any place I could not go without them walking behind me or saying “I want to go toooooooo”. At times, they would even want to hold my hand just to walk from the kitchen to the living room.

Yet, I learned so much from their persistence. No matter what, they wanted to be with me. They wanted to be where I was. Imagine if we as believers would be that persistent in seeking God. Imagine what it would be like if we were to constantly want to be where He is, to do what He does, to simply constantly be with Him. Just imagine if we were to want to hold on to Him with the same tenacity that children can display.

Let’s take today to be closer to Him instead of waiting until tomorrow.

Mr. Snuggles

2009-10-04T19:05:00.000-07:00

My nickname for our youngest child is Mr. Snuggles. No matter where you put him, he finds a way to get closer to me. He wiggles; he rolls; he even scoots his way to be closer to either my husband or myself. It is just adorable. Once he snuggles up to us, off he goes to sleep.

His childlike desire to be close to us, reminds me of how we could be with Christ. I imagine how much He wants us to do whatever we can to get close to Him. The closer we are to Him, the more we are able to have the peace to rest in Him. I think that even God enjoys it when we want to snuggle close to Him.

Just like

2009-09-16T19:26:00.000-07:00

Every since we have had Paul, it has been funny to me to hear the comments people make regarding his features. Depending on who you talk to, he looks like my hubby and then someone else may say that he looks like me. He may have my lips, his dad’s nose, my hair, his dad’s smile, etc. Yet, regardless of the comments, there is no denying that he belongs to us, to our family.

Then I started thinking that we ought to have the features that are just like our Heavenly Father. People ought to see His patience, His love, His forgiveness in us. Think how wonderful it would be when people began to compare you to Christ that regardless of the differences you belong to His family.

So, each day, I take the time to meditate on how I am being just like Him and pray that others are able to see Him in me. What are you doing to be just like Him?

Change is happening

2009-09-03T14:03:00.000-07:00

Sitting watching a movie with some family and friends, my contractions began to get stronger and closer together. Finally, I could not hold back the tears any more. The pain was getting intense. Quickly, my husband and I were off to the hospital.

We were there. I was checked and was dilated to 4 ½ cm. After placing the monitor on my stomach to track my contractions and the baby’s heartbeat, they left us in the room alone. Every so often they would come back into the room to adjust the monitors because they could not track any contractions. Nothing was showing up on the machine, but the pain continued to get stronger. After a while, the nurses visits began to farther apart since they could not track any change. Yet, I knew that change was happening.

The doctor came in to check me to discover that I had dilated to 6 cm. They were surprised and quite shocked. There was change happening but they were unable to detect it.

This went on for another day before our little one made his appearance. For two days, my contractions were undetected by the machines but I continued to dilate.

You see, even though the machines, doctors, and nurses were trained to track the changes that were occurring in my body they were missing it. They couldn’t pick up what I knew was happening on the inside. Sometimes our change in Christ is the same way. We know that change is happening on the inside, but not everyone knows or is even able to detect that change. But in order for there to be a noticeable change on the outside, it has to begin on the inside.

Finally

2009-08-14T10:50:00.000-07:00

Well, after months of waiting, growing, and developing, we are pleased to announce that our fourth son, Paul Andrew Pack, made his appearance on July 28 at 5:05 a.m. Even though he was born a month early, there were no complications with the labor or with his health. God has blessed us with a healthy baby and a good recovery for me.

We are very thankful for all of you that have kept us in your prayers during this time. It truly has been appreciated.

I look forward to blogging with you soon.