Writin' 4 Him

God Hasn’t Forgotten About Blessing You

2016-08-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

Our vegetable garden is producing baskets full of blessings daily! My husband and I got a late start in planting, but we’re both amazed at how well it’s doing.

He worked for several days transforming my neglected, weed-filled flower garden into a sun-loving, vegetable-producing haven. He tilled and tilled and tilled once more adding several wheel barrows full of composted chicken manure from the coop until finally…he was satisfied that the soil was ready to go.

We planted zucchini, crook-neck squash, watermelon, green onions, English cucumbers, several rows of various peppers and chilies, sweet corn now 10-feet tall and a pot full of culinary herbs. It’s amazing and a lot of fun.

One of the things I’ve learned over many years of gardening is, whether growing a space overflowing with vegetables or a flower-filled paradise for butterflies and hummingbirds, the garden forces us to be patient. It forces us to watch and wait and during all that watching and waiting, the garden doesn’t forget to grow. It doesn’t forget to produce or bloom. It just takes time…precious, necessary time.

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time

we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (Galatians 6:9)

When we’re waiting for the blessings to emerge, it’s easy to believe that nothing is happening, when in fact there’s so much happening beneath the soil that we never see. The root structure forms gaining in size and strength to support the weight of the blessing; each little component reaching, searching through the soil undeterred by every obstacle because that which is planted in fertile soil will, in fact, produce and bless.

But if we hope for what we do not yet have,

we wait for it patiently. (Romans 8:25)

The enemy wants you to believe that your prayers, your hopes and dreams have gone stagnant and now lie on deaf ears, but God hasn’t forgotten to bless you. He IS blessing you. Sometimes, the blessings aren’t out in the open…yet. Maybe they’re a little hidden, growing the necessary root structure and waiting to be revealed at just the right time. And when God sheds His perfect, beautiful light on your blessings, you’ll see that they are bigger and more amazing than your dreams allowed you to imagine.

Blessings come in all shapes and sizes, my friend. But all require time spent in fertile soil and, of course…a bit of SONshine.

Don’t. Give. Up.

Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up, grew and produced a crop,

some multiplying thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times." (Mark 4:8)

Have you registered yet???

2016-02-18T11:24:00.000-08:00

Well, I don't often share press releases, but I am definitely sharing this one!

I'm going to be at the Orange County Christian Writers' Conference April 15th and 16th and I would love for you to join me! This is going to be such an amazing event - check it out!

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Christian Writers' Conference to Host Well-Known Professionals as Mentors

Modern traditional publishing, self-publishing, and the blogosphere are creating more and more opportunities for writers. But writers of all genres can profit from all-day mentoring clinics and one-on-one help from industry professionals at the 2016 Orange County Christian Writers' Conference.

The conference will be held Friday and Saturday, April 15-16, at the First Evangelical Free Church of Fullerton, 2904 Brea Blvd., Fullerton, CA., from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

Well-known authors Cindy Woodsmall, B. J. Taylor, Aaron Gansky, Kathi Macias, and others will head mentoring clinics in beginning, intermediate, and advanced fiction and nonfiction as well as a teen track and a young-adult track. One-on-one appointments with industry professionals in the Resource Room will be available to all attendees.

On Friday evening, conferees can attend an informal meet-and-greet to chat with faculty members, industry professionals, and fellow attendees. Anyone who registers for either a mentoring track or a day in the Resource Room is welcome to attend the Friday evening event. Giveaways will be an added bonus throughout the evening. Come to network, fellowship, and have fun!

To register: http://www.occwc.com.

My Tribute

2016-01-25T16:28:00.000-08:00

It was the weight of the past two weeks and the love of 27 years that brought me out to the garden this morning. It was there that I sought comfort and found it in my sad, neglected space among the weeds and forgotten plants still fighting against the seasons; there with my robe and coffee cup and tears.

And there in the first light of this new day, this beautiful gift meant to be cherished and lived because we’re still standing and still breathing, God broke through the heaviness of death and grief to show me life. Right there in the garden in the middle of my mess. Life triumphant. New and just beginning.

In that moment, God showed me that we’re to nurture the living; the wife now without a husband, the children now without a father and countless others left holding hearts full of love, admiration and cherished memories. We’re to honor the lives of those who have gone before us simply…by…living.

And as they who pass from this world and into the next are to forever rest in the peace and comfort of our savior, so shall we when we remember that they have received their reward in full. We are to rest and live in peace knowing God’s promises are true and it’s the faith of the believer that brings us full circle.

Revelation 7:15-17 “And he said, “These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore, “they are before the throne of God and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will spread his tent over them. Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun will not beat upon them, nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear

from their eyes.” (NIV)

I will always love you, Bruce. I will never forget you.

Thank you for embracing me as your own and welcoming

me to your family so many years ago. And thank you for

loving me unconditionally ever since.

Debbie

Let This be the Year

2016-01-02T07:35:00.000-08:00

It’s 6am here.

Dark and early.

That wonderfully quiet time with the perfect cup of coffee and the soothing warmth of the fireplace…and my heart stirs.

I think of this new year stretched out long before us with its possibilities and opportunities. I think of how we each enter into this clean slate of promise, of hope and dreams yet be realized.

Friend, let this be the year not only for dreaming big, but for taking long, big-girl strides toward turning our biggest, wildest dreams into reality.

Let this be the year of seriously moving toward a healthy mind, body, spirit and lifestyle and for helping others to accomplish the same.

Let this be the year of gathering up all the loose ends of our lives and bringing organization and structure where it’s needed.

Let this be the year of living more aware of those needing prayer, friendship… the love of Jesus. I pray we will go about our days with eyes wide open and sensitive to the needs of those around us.

Let this be the year of breaking down the barriers of fear and worry that we may find strength to turn worry and fear into faith and trust; trust in the One who moves mountains.

Let this be the year of salvation for loved ones who have turned away and against it far too long. I pray you and I will be that light to those living in darkness, and may they realize that the truest, purest form of happiness isn’t found in the things of this world but only when we run to the open arms of our Savior.

Let this be the year.

"'If you can'?" said Jesus.

"Everything is possible for one who believes."

(Mark 9:23)

I would love the opportunity to pray with you for the big things you'd like to accomplish in 2016. You're welcome to share your thoughts in the comment section. ALL things are possible with Jesus!

Called to be Strong

2015-09-27T16:03:00.000-07:00

All too often, it’s the thin and narrow ledge we’re forced to walk that grows us the most. Sometimes navigating the tight rope stretched out long before us is our only option…and we’re called to be strong. It’s when putting one foot in front of the other with no hand rails, no support system, no one to keep us steady that we draw on our own knowledge of what inner strength really is.

So many times I’ve found myself perched up there on that highest peak alone and unsure. It’s a scary, unsteady place to be, yet it almost seems as if each scenario is perfectly orchestrated, perfectly timed with situations I certainly wouldn’t choose on my own. Most of which seem to take place each time my husband is out of town and unavailable to encourage or support me. When moving forward alone is my only option and I do so with trepidation, it’s sort of like jumping into the deep end of a pool for the first time. How deep is it really? Will I sink to the bottom or will I be able to grab the side of the pool if I need to?

It’s only after I emerge from the situation, however shaken, that I clearly see once again. Since I can do nothing apart from Him (John 15:5) I couldn't have possibly acted in my own strength, but in God’s.

“In the day when I cried out, You answered me,

and made me bold with strength in my soul.” (Psalm 138:3)

It’s God’s strength that keeps us from sinking to the bottom. It’s His love for us that brings us safely through the dark unknown to the light on the other side. And I’ve learned that it’s not a challenge or even a test but a command to go boldly forward in the Lord. To put action to His words in every situation, our faith before our fear…each and every time we’re called to be strong.

“And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness,” (Acts 4:29)

Celebrate Fall with the New Sept/Oct Issue of CW Voice!

2015-08-31T07:47:00.001-07:00

Well, it's here!!! The new September/October issue of CW Voice is ready and available.

smile emoticon

IN THIS ISSUE...

Certified Health Coach, Nancy Sullivan shares her incredible journey of weight loss and better health in "Winning at Losing."
Heidi Avery talks about the constant and unwavering presence of Jesus in our lives in "Live in His Presence."
Christine Wright shares her struggle as a new Christian with letting go of our old self and beginning our new life in Christ with "Scared to Change."
Frugal Living expert, Kim Wolf shares her dear grandmother's recipe to help fight the cold and flu season in "Easy Cold Remedies with Horehound Herb."
Family-Friendly Movie Reviewer, Maggie Johnson gives her honest and in-depth review of "Minions" and "Inside Out."
"Peace After Divorce" Author, Renee Ettline talks about a common problem people face after divorce in "Dealing with Guilt and Regrets."
Robin Prater shares how she made the choice to follow Jesus in "A Love Journey."
"If you're having a difficult time letting go of summer..." these two recipes will plunge you right into fall! Debbie Dillon shares her recipe for "Ban-apple Bread" and "Chicken Penne Casserole."
This article from National Mill Dog Rescue is wonderfully written (by Princess Eleanor) from the unique perspective OF THE DOG! Learn what it's like to BE a puppy mill dog in "Dog Beautiful."
Fit2B's Bethany Learn answers reader's questions about exercise, pregnancy and maintaining a healthy you in "Q & A with Bethany."
In "Robin's Book Nook," Robin Prater shares her review of "A Sparrow of Terezin."

There truly is something for every heart in each issue of CW Voice! Order yours today: http://christianwomensvoice.org/

How Do You Know?

2015-08-27T14:05:00.000-07:00

It was the question of the day. The one that resonated with me long after the final Amen and dismissal.

Funny how words can echo through the heart like that.

It was the question asked by many still yet to believe and how we, as those who’ve surrendered ourselves to the One who saves, should respond.

How do you know God exists? How do you know He’s real?

Insert the collective awkward shuffling in the pews…but for me, the answer was simple. I guess I wasn’t prepared to speak it out loud, yet I could hardly contain the words.

Inside, I wanted to stand up and proclaim, “If there was no God, I would have perished in the fire! When it seemed the flames of evil intent rose up around me, I would have been destroyed. I would have been swallowed up by unimaginable pain and devastation, and when my world crumbled from beneath me, it was my Jesus who put the pieces back together again and showed me that I was not a pile of brokenness meant to stay lifeless at the bottom of that pit! It was my Jesus who gave me hope and purpose. It is He who rebuilds the broken! That's how I know He's real!”

Sometimes, the answers we seek are not in front of us. They are behind. We have to look at where we’ve been. How far we’ve come from where we were to where we are to truly see Him.

“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance

about what we do not see.” (Hebrews 11:1)

Trust in the Lord

2015-08-22T08:03:00.002-07:00

Praying God's peace and protection upon you

today and EVERYday!

Thrive

2015-08-16T08:35:00.000-07:00

The iron gate creaked with a high-pitched “Where have YOU been?” tone. I tried to brush away the guilt of dead, forgotten plants and the crunch of dried up, soon-to-be-dust weeds beneath my feet.

“I’m only here to snip a sprig of cilantro,” I said to all the little down-turned flower faces. Hmmm…if only it were still alive.

I closed the gate behind me biting my lip. If only there were more hours in a day. If only I could get to all the things needing my attention.

If only…

It doesn’t take that much time, really. After years of gardening, I know that my little space responds well to a little water and a little pruning here and there, and yes, even a little prayer. All it takes is a little time, patience and sacrifice. There’s always potential. There’s always still a bit of life left way down deep even if the exterior looks close to death.

And once again I’m reminded that one should never give up on something…or someone…with the potential to be lovely. With a little time and extra work, life and God-given beauty can be restored. There isn’t a garden that doesn’t benefit from a little love and attention, the nurturing that comes from a willing heart.

That which is meant to grow and bloom…will. I believe we’re put here to thrive in our elements…or in spite of them and that nothing or no one is beyond repair or redemption. There's a God-shaped need in all of us.

Every garden has potential.

There isn’t a soul that isn’t worth saving. There isn’t a soul that CAN’T be saved. When it comes to the effort and dedication of making this new creation in Jesus’ name, nothing is wasted. Never. Give. Up. on a soul needing Jesus.

This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

(1 Timothy 2:3-4)

Are You Ready?

2015-08-11T10:52:00.000-07:00

I gathered up my plans for the weekend, one by one. The few precious days stretched out long before me and I knew exactly what I was going to do. Had it all figured out. It was going to be great. Fun. Beautiful. New. Delicious. Exciting. Perfect!

And just as quickly, one by one…each plan, each exhausting effort crumbled, shattered to the ground leaving me spent and very frustrated wondering why God would allow me to waste my time and energy for absolutely nothing.

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. (Isaiah 55:8)

Are you ready to gather up all your hopes, ideas, dreams and thoughts about how your life should look and place them firmly in the hands of Jesus? One by one, day by day? It's like gathering all the important elements to create the perfect floral ensemble. We strive to create the perfect contrast in color and texture and maybe we hand Him one stem at a time when we're to hand over the entire bouquet. It's His. Only He can assemble the perfect balance of such things.

It’s a process. Doesn’t happen overnight. We can’t just flip a switch and suddenly know how submission works. It’s painful. Uncomfortable. Unsettling. Handing over full control…as if it ever belonged to us in the first place…takes our obedience and His faithfulness.

I’m learning to praise God when that thing I’ve wished for, hoped for, prayed about comes back to me broken, unfixed and unrealized like God saying, “No, child. Not this one – not this time.”

I’m learning to praise Him in the “no” and in the failed attempts because they aren’t really failures at all. They’re just me taking bigger strides up the mountain trying to own my chunk of it. It’s just me stretching my limits and reaching my arms out farther to embrace my vision of achievement and all the while I’m growing my need for a Savior.

When darkness falls on my plans and all the little pieces struggle to come together as I think they should, I’m learning to shout, “Praise, you, Jesus! Thank you for this challenge and this experience! I know that you have something far better planned! My plans, hopes and dreams couldn’t POSSIBLY compare to what you have in store for me and I trust you! I will praise you regardless!”

With all that I am I submit and surrender it ALL to God! All that I truly own in this life is the surrendering of my will to His. The commitment of my plans and dreams. All my tomorrows. All belong to Jesus.

And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you. (Psalm 9:10)

Beauty From Ashes

2015-08-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

was such a dense and heavy log and it refused to burn. Instead, it only smoldered and smoked in the fireplace until I finally gave up the fight, closed the doors and walked away. I’d so wanted to wake up that cool and misty morning with my coffee and a nice fire, but it wasn’t meant to be.

Later that evening when the chill returned with the setting sun I replaced the stubborn log with some drier pieces I’d found in the wood pile. I very carefully took the log and sat it on the back patio…not the wisest thing I’ve ever done…

That night, it was the chaotic clanging of the wind chime that woke me. The Santa Ana winds were a bit of a surprise as they kicked up but I had no idea what was really happening as the autumn moonlight and swaying tree branches shadow danced across my bedroom walls.

We woke the following morning in complete bewilderment. It looked like a bomb had gone off on our back patio. Ash and burnt wood pieces littered the whole area from the lawn to the back door of the house. Every patio chair cushion and pillow suffered small burn holes and then I noticed the log!

I never knew concrete could burn!

Apparently, the log that refused to burn in my fireplace ignited with the overnight winds and got so hot that it actually weakened the concrete leaving us with two large missing chunks of patio.

My husband…..was not happy.

I was speechless.

But as we surveyed the damage, I quickly realized what COULD have happened if God hadn’t been protecting us. Our entire house could have gone up in flames and we could have lost everything while we slept.

But then yesterday…..

When I looked out the window and saw this, a little bird making great use of my "mishap," I immediately thought of this verse:

“and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
    instead of ashes,
the oil of joy
    instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
    instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
    a planting of the Lord
    for the display of his splendor.” (Isaiah 61:3)

Only our Lord Jesus can bring about beauty from ashes.

Blessings from our mistakes.

Grace in our weakness.

Only Jesus can bring about new growth from devastation and loss.

Only. Jesus.

Glory to God!

Photo credit

What Do You Really Want?

2015-07-27T08:03:00.000-07:00

It’s a struggle each day, really. Finding the socks that match. Sweeping up scattered bird seed and oh, how that dog hair flies. Keeping up with the dishes in the sink and keeping the front of the fridge shiny and free of fingerprints and what’s for dinner? There’s that big yellow dog drinking from the toilet again and every time I look at that wall I’m reminded of the mess I made of it when I tried to fill in nail holes and paint over my mistakes…only to make them more pronounced and annoying. And if I trip over one. more. shoe. left in the middle of the room…! And what’s that funky smell in the garage? Oh, there’s that computer with the cursor blinking, screaming at me to just DO SOMEthing, already! And the calendar with so many dates circled in red.

And there’s that headache and the stomach knotting. The constant treading of water as it threatens higher and higher still. And me looking through this kaleidoscope of life reaching, grasping, jumping from crumbling ledges…

and Jesus catching me every. single. time.

And I have to ask myself, “what is it that I really want?”

What do you really want?

What’s waking you up at night, stealing your sleep and stealing your thoughts?

Do you want more time?

Peace?

Joy?

Success in business?

Resolution in relationships?

Freedom from financial worry?

Healing and salvation for loved ones?

All the above?

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness,

and all these things will be added to you. (Matthew 6:33)

When I think of those who have left the biggest, deepest impressions on my life and the memories of them that make me whole and complete, there was nothing but the joy. It didn’t take “things” to create those moments.

It simply involved a freshly-raked pile of autumn leaves and hunting for eggs in the garden in the middle of July and searching for shiny marbles in the dirt and rolling down a green, grassy hill not caring who was watching and the heavenly aromas filling a warm kitchen on a cold day and the laughter above it all and sitting, talking and the witnessing of giving and sharing from the heart.

When I think of what I really want…I want that. To be the one making those memories with others. To leave the impact. To bring the smile. To live simply - simply sharing Jesus.

A generous person will prosper;

whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.

(Proverbs 11:25)

Unsettling Conviction

2015-07-23T11:23:00.001-07:00

I pulled another warm towel from the dryer and stood folding it when a wave of conviction settled over me.

Don’t you just hate when that happens? One of those run-and-hide moments but you can’t escape it.

My mind went back to last Sunday morning when my husband was asked to fill in for the worship leader who’d been called away at the last minute.

My first response? “Really? Matt can’t lead worship. He doesn’t sing. He’s a trumpet player.”

Ouch!

So much for confidence in my husband and so much for confidence in our incredible God who equips us to fulfill His every task so that we may be a blessing to others. I usually bristle when I hear someone categorize or stereotype another, yet there I was doing the same thing in thinking his abilities were limited within the confines of walls I’d essentially built around him!

What was I thinking? Instead of seeing it as an opportunity for my husband to be used of God in a tight situation, I focused on what I thought his abilities were.

Double ouch!

Was it fear? Was I afraid he would be embarrassed? Was I afraid I would be embarrassed? The convicting part? Forgetting that God wouldn’t lead either of us to embarrassment.

Forgive me, Lord Jesus! Help me to remember that we can do ALL things through You who strengthens us. You equip us for every task. You do not leave us stranded. Help me to see you clearly as you work in me and in the lives of those around me, and help me to never limit what you choose to do in your people. Amen.

Every. Single. Day. I see the signs of Jesus working in my life. He gives those little learning moments that teach, convict and also give me a safe resting place to remind me that it’s all going to be ok. That He is near. He is within. He is ahead and behind and cheering me on from the sidelines. And last Sunday, He was cheering Matt on, as well.

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God,

the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary,

and his understanding no one can fathom. (Isaiah 40:28)

A Plan, a Jam Session and Green Beans

2015-07-22T20:18:00.000-07:00

So, it happened again….

I spent the entire day thinking about cooking! I had so many different recipes going through my head before I decided on one in particular.

I couldn’t wait to run a couple errands after work, come home, clean up a few things, throw in some laundry and get an early start on dinner.

Instead…

I came home to a rather loud and unexpected “concert,” of sorts.

I love when my son’s incredibly talented and gifted friends show up because they almost always end up around the piano (though it's hard to see the friend at the piano in this shot, trust me, he's there).

We are a complete and total band geek and drum corps family. Music is ALWAYS happening in our lives and in our home – it’s very much a part of us and it’s been that way since before the kids were even born.

I’m particularly blessed knowing that both my kids have had some amazing and wonderful friendships that actually began in their pre-school days and have continued on to this day. I’ve always been thankful that God allowed us to stay in the same town since the kids were born making it possible to maintain friendships for many years.

So today, once the music finally stopped and everyone cleared out of the house, I was able to get in the kitchen and start banging pots and pans around.

This is a simple and tasty recipe that I've made before for my husband and I’m happy to share it with you.

Debbie’s Green Beans

12 oz. green beans, washed and trimmed

1 Linguica Sausage thinly sliced

½ small red onion thinly sliced

2-3 garlic cloves, mashed

1 Tbsp. butter

Zest of 1 lemon

1 tsp. garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 c. low sodium chicken broth

1 handful of slivered almonds (browned in a little butter)

1 Tbsp. olive oil

Directions:

Heat olive oil in pan. Add linguica and cook until brown. Remove meat from pan and add butter to remaining drippings. Once butter is melted add onion, salt and pepper and garlic powder. Cook and stir for a few minutes. Add garlic and continue cooking. Add the green beans and cook for a few minutes stirring as they cook.

In the meantime, melt a small pat of butter in a pan and brown slivered almonds. Remove from heat.

Return sausage to green bean mixture and add chicken broth. Bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat. Simmer about 20-30 minutes. Sprinkle slivered almonds across top before serving.

My New Salsa Recipe

2015-07-20T12:35:00.000-07:00

I made this over the weekend and couldn't wait to share it with you!

3 Roma tomatoes (seeded)

½ red onion, chopped

1 jalapeno, seeded

1 green onion

1 small can diced green chilies

1 small 8oz. can tomato sauce

½ small can El Pato sauce

3 garlic cloves

Juice of 1 lime

2 tsp. ground cumin

2 tsp. chili powder

¼ tsp. Cayenne pepper

1 tsp. Oregano

1/3 cup cilantro

2 tsp. salt

1 tsp. pepper

pinch of sugar (optional)

Combine all ingredients into a food processor or blender until well blended and you’ve reached the consistency you prefer.

Quiet Miracles

2015-07-17T11:57:00.000-07:00

The words came quiet but strong. Even in the noise of my hair dryer. Even in the nuisance of a neighbor’s early-morning leaf blower. Whispering behind all the chaos in my own head planning out the day.

“Quiet….miracle…”

Wait…what?

What does that mean? I puzzled.

I envisioned the quiet miracle of life taking place in a mother’s womb. Quietly growing. Quietly being.

The quiet miracle of healing…of the heart, of the mind and of the whole body. The healing of relationships broken.

I thought of the quiet miracle of each new morning and the sun quietly appearing, casting light and promise.

I’m praising God today for the quiet miracles that come in a single phone call. An unexpected email. The few perfect words spoken from a friend’s loving heart. God gives us quiet miracles every single day, not with grand fanfare but in a simple flutter of angel’s wings.

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. (2 Cor. 12:9)

Only the voice of God can be heard as a whisper amid noise, chaos and confusion. It’s that same voice that speaks miracles into being, answers to every cry of the heart. He’s present and hears the prayers of believers gathered in His name professing the hope they have in the One who saves and blesses and creates the new and beautiful from our own mess knowing He is the one true constant from which all miracles emerge. There is no other.

As God puts the final stitches in your quiet miracle, I pray you find rest and comfort…contentment…in the process knowing there will be no miracle left undone.

Believe and trust in Him.

Sneak Preview

2015-06-29T15:13:00.000-07:00

I just want to take a minute and share a little something with you...

I absolutely LOVE working on every issue of CW Voice Magazine, but I have to say that I particularly enjoy putting these pages together on quiet, calm Sunday afternoons. After a great sermon and morning worship, I feel energized. My spirit is renewed and my desire to reach and bless women with the love of Jesus is refreshed and strengthened.

Every new issue of this magazine is my favorite, and our upcoming July/August issue is no exception - SO many wonderful articles that will speak to your heart with the hope we have in Jesus.

Here's a sneak preview of the cover for our new issue, though this one may be a little late coming out. I apologize. We're working hard to shine it all up and have it ready as soon as possible. Until then, our May/June issue is still available Here!

Hope you're enjoying your summer!

When God Says "Rest!"

2015-06-26T09:38:00.003-07:00

Sometimes, it takes a God-sized fear to speak our hearts into surrender.

Sometimes, it takes a God-sized presence to pull us away from our I-can-do-all-things...until-I-drop attitude.

Sometimes, when we tie on our Super Woman cape determined to power through and continue on toward OUR goals instead of the goals God has for us, He gives us two fun-filled, eye-opening days in the hospital to put things in perspective.

It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep. (Psalm 127:2)

My husband was away on a business trip and I did as I always do. It’s a sickness, really, to think that I have to accomplish something big and awesome while he’s gone in hopes of surprising him when he returns.

Years ago when the kids were toddlers, I took on the challenge of sanding and painting all my kitchen cabinets (including changing out every hinge and handle and the previous owners had painted over EVERY screw head). From there, I moved on to wainscoting two kitchen walls, painting the upper portion and putting up a wallpaper border during his 2-week business trip to Tennessee. It was ridiculous and I vowed to never take on such a huge project again.

This time…while my husband was away on a week-long business trip, I decided it was time to pretty-up the foyer. I was tired of looking at the dated ivy stencil work I’d done years ago. So, I started small. I changed out the broken handles on the antique cabinet in the entryway. From there, I moved on to painting the wall beneath the staircase that faces the front door. Not a big deal and very do-able.

I should have stopped there, but no. I am Debbie – hear me roar!

I decided it was time to give my entire staircase, railing, spindles, etc. a facelift. It looked tired and old and I really thought that I could complete the job of staining every square inch of wood in a beautiful dark hickory stain by doing a little each day after working at my real job!

Long story short: the chest pains started about 20 minutes into the project and continued clear until I’d finished for the day. I’d run out of daylight and energy and it was time to go to bed.

I tried to sleep that night ignoring the pain and heaviness in my chest, but by 2:30am, the pain had traveled from my right shoulder to the left and my left arm was in agony. Both hands were tingling, but I tried to shake it out and find a comfortable position to sleep because I had work early the next morning.

After hours of trying to talk myself out of going to the ER, I finally gave in after remembering a billboard I’d seen along the highway on a recent trip with my husband. It said, “Your health isn’t just about you.” I thought of my husband, my children and loved ones…and drove myself to the ER.

I spent 2 days of constant needles, blood draws, machines, tests involving “nuclear medicine” and lots of waiting in between (and not a drop of coffee to be seen). It was kinda scary, painful, uncomfortable, but I knew I’d made the right decision to go given my family health history.

I’m just so glad that God gives us hymns like “His Eye is on the Sparrow” to play in the background of our fear and uncertainty. I’m so blessed by the friends He provides to see us through our tears and fears of the unknown; the friends who call and text and bring flowers and reading material and look away when we’re at the mercy of an easy-breezy hospital gown.

God is ALWAYS good. He meets our every need. He gives us the necessary eye-opening events to remind us how very fragile this life really is. He loves, protects and guides His children and brings them through the scary times. He slows us down and reminds us that this life isn’t about the rush and the hurry, and the stress of getting things done. It’s about giving each day to Him and accomplishing His to-do list – not ours.

And He sometimes lets the biggest projects go half-done to serve as a reminder to only follow His plan. It’s not my job to go out and conquer the world or even a home-improvement project that’s well above my head. I wasn't created to do it ALL. I will only be victorious over that which God sets before me….and I will look at my half-done staircase…and smile.

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly

in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy,

and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)

Photo credit

Living in the Extreme

2015-06-21T08:55:00.001-07:00

As if Father’s Day itself doesn’t bring about a myriad of emotion for so many of us, we’re all still digesting recent, unimaginable tragedies and heartbreak among God’s people. It just seems our entire country is experiencing everything these days to the extreme.

We’ve got extreme heat and out-of-control wild fires blazing here in California while much of our east coast is sweltering in heat, humidity, rain and thunderstorms. Sorry for that brief weather update, but I think we could all use a little sweetness in our lives in one form or another. A pure and simple, refreshing peace that centers us and reminds us that God knows. God sees it all, shares in our suffering and offers His presence during every single drop-to-your-knees-and-pray moment.

He brings the rainbows, but not until the storm passes.

He brings the cool, quiet evenings, but we have to endure the scorching heat of day.

He brings reassurance and relief, but only after the flames die down.

Everything has its season. In fact, it seems everything has a beginning and an end…except one thing: God’s extreme love for His children. His love knows no season. It’s unconditional and from the purest of hearts.

Normally, I would head out to the garden when I want to collect my thoughts and find some sort of balance, but yesterday (the heat kept me inside) I found solace in my kitchen. I came home from grocery shopping and as I put everything away, I cleaned pantry shelves, consolidated food items, cooked up last little bits of things to get them out of the way and had a great time just being busy at home (Titus 2:5). And all day I found myself praising God; praising Him for His provision, His peace and His love for me.

Oh, and then these happened. I can’t take credit for this recipe, though. This is from Ree Drummond (the Pioneer Woman). These are so delicious and easy to make. This recipe sort of takes the extreme out of the day, as it requires you to press the crust evenly across the pan reaching all four corners. I think any recipe that calls for the use of our hands to fashion or mold has a natural way of resetting the soul. It just helps to sort of shut out the craziness, the chaos and uncertainty of life. And for that, I am extremely grateful.

" to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind,

and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will

malign the word of God." (Titus 2:5 NIV)

To Catch a Dream

2015-06-17T14:12:00.000-07:00

I remember spending countless hours as a little girl watching a red and white bobber float along still waters. After awhile, I’d get impatient, reel it back in and cast out to yet another “perfect” spot.

I soon realized that the weight of the bobber alone wasn’t enough to carry my line out very far, so I learned how to add little round split shot weights to my line so I could cast out farther and stand a better chance at some of the bigger fish.

It doesn’t take much effort to keep casting our line close to the shore, does it?

It seems that if we only have faith enough to toss our line within reach, we can only hope to catch the smallest, youngest fish. Sure, it’s safer and easier that way, but there’s really not much of a challenge in dreaming of the small and attainable when there are so many big fish out there.

It takes the weight of faith on our line, faith big enough to cast our dreams and our goals way out beyond the lapping waves and into waters swirling well over our head where the biggest fish swim.

It's the strength of that faith that grabs that line and makes it soar way out beyond where we're able to reach on our own. And it's the weight of our faith that allows us to think beyond the shoreline and into the unknown because God's hands fashioned both the shallow and the deep waters.

"In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied

by action, is dead." (James 2:17)

I want to encourage you, sweet friend, to add the weight of faith to your dreams. Cast out far beyond the break of waves and into the deepest unknown. You may have to cast out many, many times before you catch what you’re looking for and you might even snag your line in the undergrowth. But don’t let that keep you from trying. Because of Jesus, we have the power and the authority to think far beyond the attainable, reachable goals and into the open waters of possibility. Praise God!

²⁸“Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”

²⁹“Come,” he said.

Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. ³⁰But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”

³¹Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” (Matthew 1428-31)

Photo credit

The Waiting Game

2015-06-16T14:50:00.000-07:00

So, I’m playing the waiting game right now...and I don’t like it. I’ve submitted a few articles to be considered for publication in various sources and I’m trying to pretend it doesn’t bother me when junky, spammy emails land in my inbox instead of an acceptance note.

I wasn’t wired with patience, so playing this game when I want answers instead is agonizing for me.

I try to busy myself with other things because as a writer, we’re told to “write and submit, write and submit and repeat.” Great advice, actually. Once we send off little bits and pieces of our heart and soul to a publisher, it’s done. It’s gone. No more editing. No more chances to shine up that first impression. It is what it is and we’re left with those heart-stopping moments at 2am when our eyes fly open and we gasp, “Did I remember to put a title on that thing? Oh, I just know they’re going to hate it. That’s it. I’m washed up. Done. I should just sell my computer and forget about ever writing another word.”

But really, the only thing we can do is move on to the next dream. The next thought and goal. Why? Because it’s what we do. We’re not writing for someone else, really. We’re writing because we have words that kick and wrestle to breathe, to pull back the curtains of our very soul and give light to that which God Himself has nestled deep down in the very heart of each one of us.

God's Word tells me in Romans 12:12:

“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”

So, I shall.

Pour Yourself Out

2015-05-28T15:38:00.000-07:00

The words spin around these days as I struggle to form them into what is probably the most difficult article I’ve ever written. It comes from the deepest part of me where the words are few and tossed about by crushing waves of emotion. It’s a frustrating place to be, having this need to bring it all to the light of day, to see it on the surface and let it breathe, yet it’s bound up tight.

Are you struggling with what to write? What to do? What to paint? What to sing? What to create? What to say? What to be? Where to go?

Open your heart and pour yourself out!

These are the words I’ve heard whispered throughout my day today and I wanted to share them with you.

When it’s your story, your song, you taking steps in a particular direction it’s not up for approval if you and God are in agreement over it. It’s from your heart and there is no right or wrong. It’s not out there for scrutiny.

It’s you sharing a piece of you.

Plain and simple you.

God’s design in action.

Pour yourself out, my friend.

“Yet you, Lord, are our Father.
We are the clay, you are the potter;
we are all the work of your hand.”

- Isaiah 64:8

5 Steps To Help You Release Objects From a Painful Past

2015-05-13T10:59:00.000-07:00

It wasn’t just any piano. It was the piano given to me with a promise attached to it; a promise to never let it leave the family and to hand it down from one generation to the next. It was supposed to be forever special and I was supposed to forever cherish it.

That was a tall order.

For years I’ve grappled with the thought that “a promise is a promise.” How could I possibly get rid of something I’d vowed would never leave my possession despite all the dark and painful memories associated with it? Yet, there it sat like a loud, obnoxious and very unwelcome house guest in the corner of my living room, taking up space and soaking up a bit of my joy with every glance.

So, when the opportunity came recently to trade my piano for a very old baby grand, I realized it was time to put my faith in action and actually let it go. In that decision alone, I regained control over the situation and reclaimed what this inanimate object held over me for so long and you know what? It felt great!

I know how difficult it can be to let go of something held onto out of obligation or perhaps a false sense of commitment and I would like to share my observations taken from my own personal experience:

1. Recognize that it’s unhealthy to keep objects around that represent an unpleasant time in our lives, especially if God is healing us, drawing us out and away from the grip of painful memories.

2. It’s much easier to get rid of an object if we release it emotionally first. This is tough to do when anger or resentment have built up, but if we first come to terms with it emotionally, we can release it with strength and confidence.

3. Understand that something that may have represented grief and pain in your life could actually be a blessing to someone else.

4. Give praise to God when the object physically leaves your possession! Praise Him for the feeling of release it brings and enjoy the wonderful freedom of no longer being bound by the painful memories it represented.

5. Share your testimony! Tell others how God has helped to bring you this far in the healing process.

God doesn’t want us held captive by inanimate objects nor by any other reminders of a painful past. Joel 2:25 tells us, “I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten—the great locust and the young locust, the other locusts and the locust swarm—my great army that I sent among you.”

Is there something you possess today that should be released? Something from a painful past or a promise made? God knows what brings the pain and sadness in your life. Rise up and take control of your healing process and remember Luke 10:19, “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.”

Seek Him. Seek His guidance and direction and release all that hinders you today.

Happy Mother's Day!

2015-05-10T09:54:00.000-07:00

Guilt-Free Moments

2015-04-07T19:17:00.000-07:00

Just gonna be real here….

So, I got off work at 3pm. Came home, checked on all the animals because there are eggs to collect, dogs to love on and a semi-sick diamond dove who’s been hanging out at the bottom of the cage since yesterday and I’m a little worried about her.

Then, there’s the “storm”…an afternoon of cold wind and clouds and a brief but powerful downpour…and then it was gone (?)

Then…I’ve had a recipe for Navy beans and ham hocks running through my head all morning, so I diced this and chopped that and tossed it all in the pressure cooker (see the end of this post) and headed out to pick up dear daughter from work (because dear son needed the car and it’s always a game to see who drives what).

Conversation was a little edgier and harder hitting than usual, so I was glad to dump her off at home (lol) and then watch her quickly leave again for concert band practice at the college.

Then…I’ve been in a quiet battle with a low-grade fever and sluggish/sick feeling for the past few days and when dear son headed off to the library to study with his friend who happens to be a girl but not a “girlfriend,” that’s when I heard the almost angelic tones of “The Pioneer Woman” theme song on the TV which told me it was already 5 o’clock. I figured…hmmm…I’m gonna make myself a cup of coffee and…dare I say….SIT DOWN and watch one of my favorite shows!

And you know what???

I did!

Please understand….I just don’t do that during normal daylight hours.

I feel guilty if my backside lands on the couch before 8pm, ESPECIALLY with a cup of coffee in my hands!

Why is that?

Why is working and accomplishing and doing and checking off all the boxes SO important and SO engrained in my brain to the point that I’m worried to have someone actually walk in and see me “wasting time” during the middle of the day? And if someone actually does happen to walk in, I’m quick to defend myself with many reasons why I’m taking a break and not scrubbing, folding or sweeping something???

Uggh!!! Stop the madness!!!!

April is my birthday month.

I celebrate ALL month long…especially THIS one. Ummm…I’ll just say it’s a big, ugly number and it’s hitting me kinda hard this time. But really, who’s counting, right?

I’m just happy to be where God has me even if I am a little worn and weary from life’s lessons and experiences. I am His and He is mine – I really couldn’t ask for more.

I think that now (as a birthday present to myself) is a good time to make the decision to allow myself time outs; moments to just stop, sit, maybe enjoy that afternoon cup of coffee or glass of tea or nothing at all and just let my mind…escape for a little while.

Guilt-Free Moments!

I never like saying that I’ve “earned” something or that I “deserve” something because I’m humbled and blessed with ALL the ways God shows Himself to me throughout the day. But when I’m tired, when I’ve worked hard at something, when my feelings are a little shredded and I just don’t have the strength to keep tying up the loose ends of the day and smiling through the process…I’m going to allow myself those guilt-free moments.

I hope you will, too.

And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place

and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had

no leisure even to eat. (Mark 6:31)

Navy Beans and Ham Hocks

Used 1 large ham hock
8 oz. dry Navy beans
1/2 red onion, diced
1 1/2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp. onion powder
2 tsp. garlic powder
2 tsp. Tony Chachere's seasoning
about 1 Tbsp. Italian seasoning
Dissolved 3 tsp. Knorr chicken flavored bouillon powder in 6-7 cups warm water.
Poured it all in the pressure cooker and let it go for about an hour and a half.

Delicious!