A Proverbs 31 Woman Wannabe

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 20:13:54 +0000

Emergency Telephone Numbers
These are more effective than 911
When -
You are sad, phone John 14
You have sinned, phone Psalm 51
You are facing danger, phone Psalm 91
People have failed you, phone Psalm 27
It feels as though God is far from you, phone Psalm 139
Your faith needs stimulation, phone Hebrews 11
You are alone and scared, phone Psalm 23
You are worried, phone Matthew 8:19-34
You are hurt and critical, phone 1 Corinthians 13
You wonder about Christianity, phone 2 Corinthians 5:15-18
You feel like an outcast, phone Romans 8:31-39
You are seeking peace, phone Matthew 11:25-30
It feels as if the world is bigger than God, phone Psalm 90
You need Christ like insurance, phone Romans 8:1-30
You are leaving home for a trip, phone Psalm 121
You are praying for yourself, phone Psalm 87
You require courage for a task, phone Joshua 1
Inflation's and investments are hogging your thoughts, phone Mark 10:17-31
You are depressive, phone Psalm 27
Your bank account is empty, phone Psalm 37
You lose faith in mankind, phone 1 Corinthians 13
It looks like people are unfriendly, phone John 15
You are losing hope, phone Psalm 126
You feel the world is small compared to you, phone Psalm 19
You want to carry fruit, phone John 15
Paul's secret for happiness, phone Colossians 3:12-17
With big opportunity/ discovery, phone Isaiah 55
To get along with other people, phone Romans 12
ALTERNATE NUMBERS
For dealing with fear, call Psalm 47
For security, call Psalm 121:3
For assurance, call Mark 8:35
For reassurance, call Psalm 145:18
ALL THESE NUMBERS MAY BE PHONED DIRECTLY.
NO OPERATOR ASSISTANCE IS NECESSARY.
ALL LINES TO HEAVEN ARE AVAILABLE 24 HOURS A DAY.
FEED YOUR FAITH, AND DOUBT WILL STARVE TO DEATH.

Renewal and Rest

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 20:13:54 +0000

I had the most gloriously restful and renewing weekend!! I went to the Women's Retreat for our church, and let me tell you...I have never been around a more loving, accepting, encouraging group of women in my life. I've been going to this church for almost 4 1/2 years, and I know many of the women that were there, at least in passing. Others I know fairly well, but there were also a number of strangers to me (our church holds 3 different services each Sunday, so I don't see

Great Expectations

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 20:13:54 +0000

It is with a joy filled heart that I tell you that we are expecting again! This time around, so far, everything looks good. We are due Thanksgiving Day (Nov 26 for those that don't live in the US.) We covet your prayers over this child and my health as well. We are doing wonderfully as a couple and as a family. In fact, just last night I was thinking how blessed I am, as I was videotaping some of my children in the evening. I'll share the video with you. Hope it makes you laugh!!

It's A Boy...And He's Here!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 16:48:00 +0000

Ok, so I know I said I was going to be deleting this blog...and at some point, I still believe I will. It just hasn't been high on my priority list. Yep, Robert James Kearney IV made his appearance on Thursday October 29th at 6:07 PM. He weighed 6 lbs 8 oz and was 19 and 1/4 inches. He was 4 weeks premature and had to spend his first two weeks of life in the hospital. All is well now, and we are both home and thriving. I just wanted to share the news with all those that may still have this blog in their reader and still care to know this information. Be blessed!

Detour Ahead

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 21:34:00 +0000

After much prayer and consideration, and let's face it- very little posting, I have decided to "delete" this blog. I have decided to go in a little different direction. My new blog, Born For This Life, will share my musings as a wife and mother, as well as the occasional spiritual discussion or devotional. Though this new blog is not intended to be a Christian teaching blog, it will continue to reflect my Christian mindset. I hope and pray that all my previous readers will come on over and check the new blog out. Be blessed and thanks for reading!

"Leftover" Chicken Enchilada Recipe

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 17:05:00 +0000

I can't tell you the number of times I have heard other women say that they were going to use their leftover chicken to make enchiladas or tacos, and I always wondered how they did it. So, looking online last night, I found some recipes, but I didn't have the ingredients to make them, and was not going to the store. I looked in my pantry, and decided to improvise. (Did I mention that I have NEVER made chicken enchiladas before?) They were such a hit that I'm sharing the recipe with you all. Enjoy!!

Ingredients
2-3 lg fully cooked, diced, chicken breasts (mine were baked the night before)
3 C. (approx) Chicken flavored Rice-A-Roni cooked according to package instructions (again from night before)
1- 10.75 oz can Campbell's Southwest Style Pepperjack Cheese soup
1- 10.5 oz can Aunt Penny's white sauce (I'm sure any white sauce would work)
1/4 C water
1 TBS Chili powder
1/2 tsp Cumin
1/2 tsp garlic powder (or to taste)
1/2 tsp onion powder (or to taste)
8-12 Corn Tortillas
2-3 C Taco flavored grated cheese (from the bag)
Splash of water (approx 2 TBS)

Mix together soup, white sauce and 1/4 C water in medium saucepan, cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot. Reduce heat to low or set aside.
Place diced chicken and rice in microwave safe casserole or bowl with lid, season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder and onion powder. Add splash of water (just enough to ensure moistness of rice.) Mix well. Cover with lid and heat just until hot (heating times will vary.)
On microwave safe plate, place corn tortillas and wrap with paper towels, or light dish towel/ cloth napkin. Heat just until warmed and pliable. approx 30 sec- 1 minute.
In 11X9" glass baking dish, place 1/4 C of sauce, spread over bottom of baking dish. Place heated corn tortillas one by one, in baking dish, place a spoonful of chicken and rice mixture in tortilla, sprinkle light amount of cheese on chicken mixture, roll tortilla and push to edge of pan. Repeat until all tortillas are used or pan is full. Cover enchiladas with remaining sauce spreading evenly across all. Sprinkle remaining cheese over top, evenly. Heat in 350 degree oven until sauce is bubbly and cheese is fully melted (about 20-25 minutes.) Serves 8-12. Bon Appetit!

HINT: This recipe will only take approx 20 minutes to prep if using leftovers. Plan on approx 30-45 aditional minutes if making with uncooked chicken and rice in one day.

It's A.....

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 23:54:00 +0000

For those of you NOT on Facebook, we found out today what we are having. It is a healthy baby BOY!! And for those of you that somehow didn't know we were expecting, consider yourselves notified. We are 20 weeks now, and are due somewhere around Thanksgiving. (I never go all the way to my due date...) Be blessed!!

Biblical Childrearing

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 13:56:00 +0000

1 Kings 2:3 And keep the charge of the LORD your God: to walk in His ways, to keep His statutes, His commandments, His judgments, and His testimonies, as it is written in the Law of Moses, that you may prosper in all that you do and wherever you turn;

Anyone who has spent any amount of time studying the Bible for biblical childrearing principles has read Proverbs 22:6 "Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it." I have made a decision to do my best to take heed to this Scripture. Being the parent of going-on-five children, it is really good advice (as all of Scripture is.) Because of my conscious decision to dedicate each of my children to the Lord, and to follow this instruction to the best of my abilities, I am constantly looking for Scripture to share with my children.

This morning, when readying myself for my morning Bible study, I prayed to the Lord that He would direct me to Scripture that was relevant to me today. 1 Kings 2:3 was what He gave me. The fact that this instruction was given from a father to a son, was not lost to me. When you add that these instructions were given to King Solomon, by his father, King David, makes it all the more compelling to me.

My point in sharing this is to show that when we need instruction for anything in life, we can always pray for guidance. The Lord will never let us down, if we truly seek what He offers.

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 1 James 1:5 NKJV

I pray you are blessed today and every day, my friends.

Beware of These Books:

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 21:59:00 +0000

I received this in an email today, and am passing it on, with the hopes that it will receive the greatest amount of exposure this way. I will also be posting it to my Facebook page, I hope and pray that each of you believers will do the same. Be blessed!

Book to be aware of is called: Conversations with God and Conversations with God for Teens by Neale D. Walsch. Please read the forwarded message.

This was sent to me, I found it very interesting. Deception can not work if the one deceiving has no credence with the one being deceiving. This is why the Devil unfortunately uses those with fame to deceive many.

Beware of this book- Oprah is pushing it!

If you have children or grandchildren, work with children at church, or you have neighborhood children whose parents you know, please take note of the information below and pass it along to others. Schools are making this book available to children through the Scholastic Book Club.

The name of the book is Conversations with God.. James Dobson talked about this book twice this week. It is devastating . Parents, churches and Christian schools need to be aware of it. Please pass this information on to church/e-mail addresses, Parents, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, friends.

Two particular books are, Conversations with God and Conversations with God for Teens, written by Neale D. Walsch. They sound harmless enough by their titles alone. The books have been on the New York Times best sellers list for a number of weeks, and they make truth of the statement, "Don't judge a book by its cover or title."

The author purports to answer various questions asked by kids using the "voice of God". However, the "answers" that he gives are not Bible-based and go against the very infallible word of God. For instance (and I paraphrase), when a girl asks the question "Why am I a lesbian?" His answer is that she was 'born that way' because of genetics (just as you were born right-handed,
with brown eyes, etc.). Then he tells her to go out and "celebrate" her differences.

Another girls poses the question "I am living with my boyfriend. My parents say that I should marry him because I am living in sin. Should I marry him?"

His reply is, "Who are you sinning against? Not me, because you have done nothing wrong."

Another question asks about God's forgiveness of sin. His reply "I do not forgive anyone because there is nothing t o forgive. There is no such thing as right or wrong and that is what I have been trying to tell everyone, do not judge people. People have chosen to judge one another and this is wrong, because the rule is "'judge not lest ye be judged."

Not only are these books the false doctrine of the devil, but in some instances quote (in error) the Word of God.

And the list goes on. These books (and others like it) are being sold to schoolchildren through The Scholastic Book Club, and we need to be aware of what is being fed to our children.

Our children are under attack. So I pray that you be sober and vigilant about teaching your children the Word of God, and guarding their exposure to worldly mediums, because our adversary, the devil, roams about as a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). We know that lions usually hunt for the slowest, weakest and YOUNGEST of its prey.

Pass this on to every Believer you know. God bless! And, if you are in doubt, check out the books yourself.

Snopes says this about the above: http://www.snopes.com/politics/religion/conversations.asp

Happy Birthday to Me...

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 13:09:00 +0000

So today is my 35th birthday. I've already been told by my husband that I am old. How's that for a Happy Birthday message?! He was joking, and it was all in fun, so I don't mind. I don't feel old. So, here's why I'm telling you it's my birthday. I won't be around to know if you wish me a Happy Birthday, because I'm going to a retreat later today, but I was thinking of an acrostic that shares what I wish for this year, for my birthday. Hope you like it...Be blessed!!!

H-Holiness
A-Approved
P-Purity
P-Peace
Y-Yahweh Daily

B-Blessings in the Lord
I-I Want to be Used By God
R-Relationship with the Lord
T-Tenderness toward Others
H-Healing
D-Delighting in His Presence
A-Attitude Adjustment
Y-Yes! Send Me.

Ok, maybe that was a little hokey, but there are so many things that I could wish for on my birthday, but all I really want is a continued, delightful knowledge of my Lord and God, and the blessings that come with that. I even count the trials as blessings because they develop perserverance, and that perserverance develops my character. I pray each day that God use me, and fill me with His Holy Spirit, so that I might reflect Him in all my ways. I pray you are blessed today as well, and maybe on your birthday, you can think of an acrostic for all the holy birthday wishes you would like to make.

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Eight Years Ago

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 17:14:00 +0000

I've always loved Christmas. It was the one time of year, when I was a child, that my family life seemed pretty much normal (whatever that is.) Eight years ago, though, I got one of the best gifts I could have ever imagined. I met my husband. My husband and I went on our first date on Dec 16th, but though it went well, and we had a nice time, I told him that I didn't want to see him again because I wasn't looking for a relationship. (He had expressed to my friend, that came along, that his goal in dating was to fall in love, get married, and have children. This was about 10 minutes into our date, and it freaked me out a bit.) So we ended our date with no plans to contact each other again. He didn't even have my phone number!

The next day though, he permeated my every thought. I couldn't get him out of my head. The way he looked, the way he looked at me, his personality, just everything about him. I called him 3 times from a payphone near his house, hoping that he'd answer just so I could talk to him again, and maybe see him. He finally answered the third time, and I told him that somehow he had managed to sneak his way into my psyche, and that I had changed my mind and would like to see him again. I visited him at his home a few times in the next couple weeks, for about 30 minutes each, and spoke to him on the phone about nothing and everything. This relationship was one where we didn't move to sex right away, and it felt so right.

I remember on about the third visit as I was getting ready to get into my car and leave, that he held my door open for me, and I finally asked him if he was ever going to kiss me. He said "you want me to kiss you?" I said "well, yeah!" As we kissed, I noticed that the poor guy's legs were shaking. It was so endearing!!! I was already dangerously close to falling in love. On Dec 23rd we had our second "date." I spent the evening at his house, and he was so romantic!! He had candles lit, and Kenny G music going...we soaked in the hot tub, and had a wonderful evening. I'll never forget that night, for the rest of my life. I knew that night, that this was the man I wanted to spend the rest of my life with.

So, tomorrow, on Dec 23rd, I will celebrate 8 years of being in love with the man that is my husband, and I must thank God for His provision. I am so blessed! Even during a time when I had turned from the Lord, He was still looking out for me, and providing that which was for my good. So today I will meditate on Jeremiah 29:11

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Thank you Lord for Your Provision and Care. I can never thank you enough for blessing me with this wonderfully caring man. A man that was made for me, and I for him. May your name be praised above all!!

Color Me Beautiful Award

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 06:32:00 +0000

I just wanted to thank Carol for her kind words and to first of all, "award" her in return. I think she deserves this award just as much, if not more than I do, and I don't care if she did create it. She deserves it.

Next, I'd like to award my husband, Bobby, at Christian Humor, because he has stood by me when most would not have, and because he is just who the Lord knew I needed as my mate and partner for life. I love you, honey!!

There are others that I would like to award too, but I just don't have enough space or time to type all of them out. If you have written me words of encouragement, in the last 4 months, consider yourself awarded. I love you all so much (even the ones that are visiting for the first time) I don't know what I'd do without my bloggy friends. Blessings to you all!!! God is good!!!

Out of Body Experiences

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 05:37:00 +0000

Ok, I have to admit, before I go any further, that that title was just a hook. I guess my sense of humor is coming back. (I like to play practical jokes that don't harm anybody.) However, what I am going to write about it more "out of mind" experiences (and if you know me and my story, you'll find that statement humorous as well. But I digress.)

I've learned something recently and that is how to be out of my mind, and love every minute of it. (Ok, maybe I wasn't done with the funnies, cause I can't stop giggling. I crack myself up.) Ok, what's the point really? It's this:

A few months back, I saw a notice in the church bulletin about a class billed as "Learning Leadership." I thought to myself, "I'm a leader, and as far as I know I've never led anyone astray, despite all the wrong turns I make, so this looks interesting." I decided to take part. What I didn't know is that it is indeed a class that helps with leadership skills, but not in the manner that I had anticipated. This class was really called "Clarity in Christ" and has taught me how to listen and heed God's voice rather than my own. Now, I'm not talking some booming voice from somewhere over my head that tells me what I should do. And I'm certainly not talking about any of the voices in MY head. (HA, HA! LOL.)

No, what I'm talking about is concerted, purposeful time in prayer, worshiping, thanking, talking to and listening for that indeed "still, small voice." For too long now, I've listened to self talk, and the voice of the deceiver. I've listened to my past and my heart, when I should have been turning firmly away from both. Many of you know that my past is what many would imagine hell to be like. But that isn't where God intends for me to live. God intends for me to live with an eye to His future, and the good He has planned for me. He may have to lead me through some "valleys" but He will be with me through all of them. So without going into too much more detail, and without subjecting you to any more of my warped sense of humor, I'd like to share with you a verse that is very meaningful to me. My hope is that if ever you are hurting, if ever you are scared, if ever you are anxious, if ever you feel unworthy, that you will think of this verse as well.

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things [are] noble, whatever things [are] just, whatever things [are] pure, whatever things [are] lovely, whatever things [are] of good report, if [there is] any virtue and if [there is] anything praiseworthy--meditate on these things. Philippians 4:8 NKJV

The emphasis being on meditating on the things that are "pure," "of good report" (in other words, true), and "if there is any virtue." At least for me, this is where the emphasis is. If I focus on what is pure, not fleshly desires, but wholly of God; if I focus on what is true- what God says is true, and if I focus only on what is virtuous; then I cannot be anything but "out of my mind." For this I thank God, for He is good. In this, and in so many other areas. Be blessed my friends.

Mask? No, Thank You.

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 03:54:00 +0000

No, this post is not about Halloween, or participating in the "festivities" associated with it. This post is about being real. Many of you know that I've gone through some really hard times lately, and much of it was of my own making. However, what you don't know, is how much better I'm doing, now that I've taken my mask completely off.

For the most part, I tried to be authentic and real, but when you get right down to the fact of the matter, I wasn't being nearly real enough. You see, I fell into that trap that so many Christians fall into. The one where we think we have to be somebody we aren't so that we can portray an image of "Christlikeness." The problem with that is, if we're portraying an image, then we are most definitely NOT being Christlike. I thank the Lord that He showed me the error of my ways.

I've become so much healthier in the last few months than I ever dreamed I could be. And I have alot farther to go. My marriage and my family have been under attack lately, and it is so reassuring to know that now that I am who I am, and not someone I think I should be, I'm able to withstand the many temptations he throws my way.

Some of the things I've been through in the last few months is rebuilding a damaged marriage (we're still working on that one, but we ARE getting there.) I've also learned that I was pregnant again, after almost a year of trying; and then learning that once again the pregnancy wasn't viable. I just had the D&C last Monday, to rid my body of the products of the pregnancy that would not leave on their own. (There was NO embryonic material...in other words, no baby. Only the gestational sac.) That was heart breaking, but I am still holding strong in the Lord.

I am learning to hold fast in the Lord, and to meditate on His Word daily. I'm learning what it truly means to have a relationship with Him. I mean REALLY and TRULY have a relationship with Him. Not some country club membership, like so many Christians have. I'm not trying to put anyone down, I just wanted to share the changes that have occurred in my own life.

It's been awhile since I posted anything here, and while I don't have any great insights to offer to anyone, other than to "check yourself" to see that the relationship you have with the Lord is real and true. It's amazing the changes that I have felt, and seen in my own life and that of my family. I just wanted to update everyone, and to let you all know that I'm still around. Just not online so much anymore. I'm learning (or re-learning) to sew, I've decided to go back to school to become a counselor, and I'm actively working my recovery. So much accomplished through the Good Lord's help. I pray you all are blessed, and I will continue to pray for all of you.

Flying Within Radar

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 03:21:00 +0000

I've learned something the last couple days, and I have to give thanks to the Lord for what I've learned. Though I didn't learn a lot that I didn't already know, I did learn some different perspectives on things I did think I already knew. You see, I attended a leadership conference, because even if I am only ever a "mother" to my children, I am still a leader to someone. The fact that I will not always be "just" a mother, and the fact that I do in fact influence others pretty regularly, it was a tremendous benefit for me to learn these new perspectives.

Frankly, it didn't matter to me what the denomination of these teachers were, and in fact I still don't know what all of them are. What mattered to me, is that they did teach some biblical truths, even amidst the stuff that is very useful even in the secular world. Among some of the best things I learned these past couple days was how to "light up the radar screen in heaven" with my prayers...

For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. 2 Chronicles 16:9

This is the "radar screen" that I was shown. A man by the name of Bill Hybels taught on that.

I've talked so many times about the importance of prayer, and being in the Word, but I must confess that I don't follow my own advice, nearly often enough. I want to light up that radar screen all day, every day. So, I have a challenge for you...before I tell you what the challenge is, I have to admit it's not my own idea. It came from another of the speakers at the conference, and regardless of what his denomination is, this was one such teaching, that no one can argue with. The challenge is this, and my husband and I are both taking it...just to see the benefit, and we already are... the challenge is called the 60/60 challenge.

Every day, for 60 days, set a timer to go off every 60 minutes, and when that timer goes off, PRAY!! Or, sit for a few minutes in silence, waiting for the Lord to speak to you. I've only been doing it for a day so far, and I have to say, my outlook on my daily life, my confession of my sins, my ability to stand firm in my faith- and flee from temptation, has already seen a tremendous change. I just want to challenge each of you to try this... can you imagine...if there was such a thing as a real radar screen in heaven, that we lit up every time one of us was in prayer, truly seeking the Lord's will, how many "lights" would show up on that screen?!?!

I don't share this with you, as any sort of pastoral or ministerial thought. I only share this as one of the members of the Body we all belong to. Won't you give it a try??? If you decide to try it (and it's not difficult, I promise) I'd love to hear how it's changing your daily life...Blessings to you all!!!

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Announcing: The Full Length Video

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 01:41:00 +0000

For those of you that are interested, the full length video for the California Missions Offering is now available for viewing. Unfortunately, I cannot post it here, as it's not posted anywhere on the web, except for on the CMO website. On the CMO website, it is available as the Music Video (which is the same as the trailer, I posted here before) and as 4 separate episodes that can be viewed individually. If you are interested and would like to see the full finished product, I invite you to check it out...Even if the only reason you check it out, is to see exactly why it is that California is such a hot place for Missions (no pun intended.) Here are the links...

Episode 1
Episode 2
Episode 3
Episode 4
2008 CMO Music Video (same as the trailer seen previously)

Congratulations to all the people involved in this project, and all glory to the Lord. May this year's offering be spectacular! If you happen to live in California, you may want to check to see if your church has received the full length DVD for use in promoting the offering, as well. Blessings to you all!

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The Song that Speaks to Me

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 22:23:00 +0000

I'm just checking in long enough to let you all know that I'm still working on my life, and more importantly, on my relationship with God. Spending significant time in His Word, and listening to music that glorifies Him. And of course, spending much more time than I had been, in prayer. The list would be never ending, if I told you all that I am praying for. :) I thank each of you that have shown compassion for my recent admission. You are what the Church is supposed to be. You are a blessing to me, and your love for a sister, is most certainly glorifying to Him. Thank you. Now, I have a song that is "my theme song" for now. I thought I'd share. Enjoy.

NATALIE GRANT--I WILL NOT BE MOVED

Blessings to you all!!!

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Moral Integrity In Question....

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 21:02:00 +0000

Though I am a Christian, as the following poem states, this does not mean, by any stretch of the imagination that I am in any way perfect.

WHEN I SAY, "I AM A CHRISTIAN"

When I say, "I am a Christian"
I'm not shouting, "I’ve been saved!"
I'm whispering, "I get lost!
That's why I chose this way"

When I say, "I am a Christian"
I don't speak with human pride
I'm confessing that I stumble—
Needing God to be my guide

When I say, "I am a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong
I'm professing that I'm weak
And pray for strength to carry on

When I say, "I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success
I'm admitting that I've failed
And cannot ever pay the debt

When I say, "I am a Christian"
I don't think I know it all
I submit to my confusion
Asking humbly to be taught

When I say, "I am a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect
My flaws are all too visible
But God believes I'm worth it

When I say, "I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain
I have my share of heartache,
Which is why I seek His name

When I say, "I am a Christian"
I do not wish to judge
I have no authority...
I only know I'm loved

Used by Permission
Copyright 1988 Carol Wimmer

As you can see, though I do say that "I am a Christian." this does not mean anything other than the fact that my sins are forgiven. It also does not mean that I am free of sin. I have been engaging in a behavior, recently, that any true Christian would be hard pressed not to consider sinful. This is part of the reason for my most recent absence. Though I am not yet ready to share what I have done, and in fact, do not know if I will ever be led to share it, I am led to take some time away from blogging and ministering to others. I do not know how long my absence will last, but I do know I need to take some time to get back into the Word, and to re-establish my relationship with God. I would ask for all of your prayers, as my life is in turmoil right now. I thank you in advance, and I also thank God for each and every one of you, my dear brothers and sisters in Christ. For those of you that have been checking up on me, I also thank you. You have been a balm to my heart. Blessings to all of you, until I "see" you again.

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So Excited and I Just Can't Hide It....

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 04:49:00 +0000

As an artistic type, it's very difficult, sometimes, to walk the fine line between giving God the glory for the talents I'm blessed with, and taking credit for using them to His glory. In spite of this, I am confident that I can share with you (and not cross that line) the trailer for the video that I was priveleged to be a part of... (Remember I told you about it about a month or so ago.) I hope you don't mind my sharing with all of you. It was just such a thrill to know that I would get to use the talents He blessed me with, when Daniel contacted me to play one of the lead characters. So, please humor me, while I show you the trailer.

The video project (from which the trailer is taken) is for the California Mission Offering, which is a means to help support Missions in California. Now before you ask if there is such a large need for this, please do watch the video. Daniel Rhoten wrote the screenplay, and directed, edited and even did much of the footage. The original music is by Paul Haugen (of Clovis Hills...the church I attend and love) and I play an overly ambitious wife, on the verge of divorce. My character's husband (also played by Alvin- a Clovis Hills member) is an alcoholic; and I need to learn to put God first and my marriage second... above my career. Please watch, and then go give these other people some mad props, for all their hard work, would you? (And just in case you were wondering: NO, Clovis Hills was not involved in the production of this video, except as I stated above. Clovis Hills as a whole has just been blessed with some really good talent... I count it pure blessing to be counted among the members...) :) So without further ado, here is the trailer...

Bright Hope for Dark Days CMO Trailer from Daniel Rhoten on Vimeo

The full version of the video should be finished and ready for release next week some time... You can also find some photo shots for the promo materials at this link, if you so desire... I won't be hurt if you don't go see... but Daniel might like to know how good a job he did... :)

Intolerant Christians

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 15:04:00 +0000

There are those that believe that Christians, are bigots and prejudicial, because they are not accepting of homosexual behavior, as normal and morally acceptable. It is generally held that in order to not be considered bigoted and prejudicial, we must not only accept homosexuality as normal and natural, but must embrace it as well. It is not enough to simply be accepting and caring towards homosexuals- as people- we must also accept their sexual activity, without regard to what God's Word says on the subject. Having had this discussion more in depth than was initially intended, in the comment section of another post, I am now in a position to state fully what my position is, and what I feel is the position of fundamental Christianity as a whole. (This is my opinion only, and may or may not apply to all that identify as fundamental Christians.)

I do not agree that acceptance of a behavior- any behavior- is necessary, in order to refrain from being a bigot or prejudicial. Nor do I think it should be considered intolerant, simply on the basis of that nonacceptance, as long as we are accepting of the person themselves; for all of mankind is loved by God. Because many Christians will not agree to wholeheartedly endorse homosexuality as right and natural, just as heterosexuality is, intolerant is the label applied to us.

Standing upon the Word of God, as our basis for our stance, is the worst kind of offense to those that would have us turn a blind eye toward homosexual acts- as sin. It matters not if we apply this same rule to all acts deemed inappropriate or sinful in God's eyes (sexual or not.) Does anyone else see this as somehow unbalanced? I do not agree that true Christians that apply God's standard to all sin, in the same regard, and without preference over any, can be considered bigots or prejudicial. Case in point, defining prejudice and bigotry:

Bigotry and Prejudice

The definition of a "bigot" or a "prejudice" are interchangeable, as the definition of "bigot" utilizes the definition of "prejudice' as it's own. So let's define prejudice: the Encarta Encyclopedia strictly defines "prejudice" as:

a preformed and unsubstantiated judgment or opinion about an individual or a group, either favorable or unfavorable in nature. (Now the broad application:) In modern usage, however, the term most often denotes an unfavorable or hostile attitude toward other people based on their membership in another social or ethnic group. The distinguishing characteristic of a prejudice is that it relies on stereotypes (oversimplified generalizations) about the group against which the prejudice is directed. (emphasis mine and some parenthetical comments my own)

Note that this definition says nothing about the actions of the group, but only about the group itself.

"Prejudice" is from the Latin word praejudicium meaning "judgment in advance" and is directed, generally, as hatred or dislike towards a specific group or person, based on race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation.

But note again, that it is a preformed, unsubstantiated opinion or judgment toward a person or group...not their actions. How then could one honestly attribute traits of bigotry and prejudice toward Christians? We Christians are, for the most part, fully accepting of all persons, just not all actions (or at least this how we should be towards all humanity.) They need not be mutually exclusive of each other. This would be akin to having a loved one lie to you, and saying that because we love them, we should be perfectly accepting of their lying behavior. This is preposterous!

Sexual Immorality in Scripture

Scripture defines sexual immorality as any sexual act that occurs outside the bounds of heterosexual, married, consensual sexual intercourse. This includes adultery, sodomy, effeminate male behavior, bestiality, incest, and more. All of these are regarded equally as sin by God, and by Christians that hold firm to His word.

Marriage Defined- Homosexual Unions Are Not Marriages:

Let's look at Genesis 2:20, 22

So Adam gave names to all cattle, to the birds of the air, and to every beast of the field. But for Adam there was not found a helper comparable to him. Then the rib which the LORD God had taken from man He made into a woman, and He brought her to the man. (emphasis mine)

This same chapter of Genesis then goes on to state that it is for this reason that a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall be one flesh (this is seen by many as well, to be a reference to the sexual union, though it is not exclusively a reference to it.) A suitable mate for man, is woman; and a suitable mate for woman is man. In addition, marriage is the institution through which God commanded mankind to procreate. Homosexuals cannot do biologically do this, without medical intervention (on the part of a female.) I grant that there are also heterosexual couples that are not able to this as well, but this is not because of anatomical incompatibility, but rather physical or other various reasons. Now for specific Scripture references that support the Christian view.

OT Scripture References Regarding Any Sexual Immorality:

In the Old Testament, we are told not to engage in any kind of lewd or lascivious sexual act- whether heterosexual or homosexual. These activities include adultery, fornication (sex outside of marriage), incest, bestiality, sodomy, and any other act of fleshly lust. There are many references but for the sake of space, I will list those that also address homosexuality, specifically. Leviticus 18:22; Leviticus 20:13; and Judges 19:22 (this is a narrative very similar to that regarding Lot and the angels with him, before the destruction of Sodom). The question has been asked how the moral aspect is still applicable, but not the "death sentence," and I shall endeavor to address this in detail in a later post. Suffice it to say that OT law is not applied in the same manner, as it was before the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ; and there are valid reasons for this.

New Testament Scripture References

In the New Testament we have a number of references to both hetero- and homosexual sin, as well. 1 Cor 6:9, 13, 18; Jude 1:7; and Romans 1:26-27 This last one, specifically, addresses homosexual acts, both female and male. I also find it extremely interesting to note, that though homosexuality was something that was known, and practiced by much of the Roman Empire- especially those of higher social status- at the time of Paul's letter to the church there; that there was no word (in Greek- the common language used for international and interracial communication) to describe a loving, committed, equal, homosexual relationship. Perhaps, if no such word existed, could it be because there was no such circumstance? Just a side thought.

Do I believe homosexuality is a choice?

Though I have used the word orientation, to state that I believed it to be a choice, I would like to try to clarify what I intended to impart. I believe that every sinful thought or desire is a fact of our humanity, and so therefore cannot be a choice. We all, as human, have them, it is a fact of mankind's condition. However, whether or not we act upon them is most certainly a choice. I was also asked if I were shown conclusive scientific evidence, that proved that homosexuality identification was something a person was born with- and had no control over- whether or not I would then be open to changing my stance. The answer is NO. The reason for this, is the fact that all sexual encounters are a choice, period. There are no exclusions. Sex is a choice. It is not a need. Some of us may believe that it is, but we are only fooling ourselves.

This is what I do know to be true, whatever our sexual orientation, it need not be also our sexual identity. If one should choose not to be aroused by members of the opposite sex, then they are free to choose celibacy, in my opinion. The same holds true for those that choose not be aroused the same sex. Self- identity need not be the basis of how we define ourselves. We are defined by who we are, not by what (or who) we do. (Please excuse my use of slang in the previous statement, it just happened to be apt.)

In conclusion, I would state, once again, that my unwillingness to accept and embrace another's sexual activity does not a bigot, make me- or any other Christian, for that matter. Everyone, regardless of any sin they may or may not have committed is loved without condition, by those that would profess to be Christ followers. For those Christians that cannot find it within themselves to do so, I can only say that being a Christian does not make anyone perfect, just more aware of our imperfections- or at least that is what should happen. I believe that most, if not all, Christians would agree with this statement; even if they agree with nothing else I have said here.

One last comment to those that do believe: We should remember that it is not our place to judge any unbeliever's sinful activity. The only "judgment" we are to make is in discerning whether or not it is sin, in order to refrain from it ourselves. The only time we should rebuke anybody's sin, is if they are already a part of the body of Christ, and we should do so according to Paul's instruction to Timothy. Though it is allowable to share what God's Word says about sin, only He can judge a person's heart, and only He knows whether or not they will one day become aware of the sin that holds them captive. Telling an non-seeking, unbeliever that they are a sinner, will do nothing more than cause hatred and revulsion of all that we are to represent. Let's follow Jesus' example in how we relate and communicate our love of all people, regardless of their sin.

Something to Think About...

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 04:37:00 +0000

I first heard of Paul Washer, over on Sicarii's old blog (sorry no link, because that "old" site has been taken down), and recently have begun listening to his sermons with my husband. I highly recommend him, to anyone that is serious about their faith in the Lord, and especially for those that are not so serious about it. Here is a CliffNotes version of one of his most powerful sermons. If you'd like to hear "part two" of sermons by Paul Washer, check out my hubby's blog tomorrow (since I stole this video from him today.) Blessings to you...

There is no "MORE" to this post.

Sanctioned Stupidity

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 19:17:00 +0000

I'm about to vent, and I've got to warn you, some of you may not agree with me, but I don't care. I'm extremely fired up about this, and this is one area where I CANNOT just sit back and be silent. Wanna know what's got me all riled up? I'll be happy to share: Bigotry! Bigotry in the name of religion, bigotry in the name of skin color, bigotry in the name of ethnicity, and bigotry in the name of race- simply put: bigotry in all its forms.

Bigotry is one of the few things that I have absolutely NO tolerance or patience for; and frankly, it is one practice that I am passionately against. Bigotry has no place in God's creation, and it's time that Christians, and everyone else, remembered that! (I am aware that not all Christians are bigots, and that bigots do not originate only within the Christian culture; but unfortunately, bigotry does occur much more frequently within "Christian" culture than it ought to. Since this is a blog with primarily Christian readers, I wish to point out the errors within "our" thinking, as well as those of other groups, that can be defines as such. Please also note: though I say "our thinking," I say so only because I am a Christian, not because I have a tendency towards bigoted attitudes.)

So what exactly constitutes bigotry? It is the thought that a group of people of differing skin color, religion, race or ethnicity, than ourselves, is somehow inferior, as a whole, simply on the basis of that difference. Bigots lump all people with the same general differing characteristic(s) into one whole, and judge them all accordingly. As an aside, I do not agree that all religions are equal, but I DO believe that all people are equal. What I am saying, is that we should be accepting of the people or persons that hold differing beliefs, are of a different skin color, a different race, or a different ethnicity than ourselves.

I don't know about you, but I was taught critical reading in school. I was also taught to think critically about the things I hear, and are told. With few exceptions, I truly believe that this process has served me well, and has been useful to my growth as a person of character. I know too, that I am not the only person that was taught the concept of critical thinking. So why is it then, that so many will allow themselves to be misled about certain things, all because they are too lazy to utilize this simple skill?

For example, on occasion I receive emails from well meaning friends and relatives, in which the text spouts off about a person or group, using generalizations to support their opinion. I received one such email today. (Though I had planned only to respond to the person that sent it, after thinking about it some more, I felt it warranted sharing here, as well.) In the email I received, there was "statistics" listed regarding Muslim terrorist activities, and later the author tied this in with whether or not Barack Obama should be elected president. While I agree that Obama is the least desirable candidate imaginable, I do not agree with the rest of what this email implied.

Firstly, the email listed numerous incidences of Muslim terrorist activities perpetrated by "Muslim males, between the ages of 17 and 40" in support of racial profiling by airport security personnel (does anyone else see this as an awfully broad application for a "profile?"); and then went on to make a correlation between Barack Obama and terrorist Muslims (whether or not this is true, is beside my ultimate point); and finally the original author went so far as to say that Obama is likely the Antichrist- based on a misinterpretation of Scripture (which I could find no basis for, in any translation- and I looked in all of them) stating that the Antichrist would be of Muslim descent!

That last statement deserves a post all of its own; but I'll touch on it briefly, as my first issue with this email. Obama's religious beliefs may be one of the reasons many don't want him for President. But to say he is the Antichrist?! Come on!!! What are we, children who have resorted to name calling?! My next issue is the fact that someone, claiming to be Christian, would so blatantly cite Scripture erroneously, to support their own agenda. There is very little in Scripture that would indicate that the Antichrist will be of Muslim, or even any other Middle Eastern descent. In fact, the only instances that might suggest this are references to Babylon, in Revelation. Critical examination of the text though, and knowledge of the entire Word, do not support this theory. Ancient Babylon was not the same Babylon as it is today, and was not even in the same location. The name Babylon is derived Babel, in which the worshippers of Nimrod were scattered, and their languages confused by God. In addition, Babylon- spiritually speaking, is more often a reference to the Roman Empire, and even idolatrous worship by the Jews themselves. In the latter, Babylon is not even a place, but a mindset. Lastly, and the reason I became riled up enough to write this post, is the fact that all Muslim men "between the ages of 17 and 40," and by default- all Muslims- were lumped together, by the email's original author, as the most likely to commit acts of terrorism. All this, simply because the author never took the time to really investigate the claims that they have heard or read, and to truly examine their own heart.

Let me explain. While it is true that their have been numerous acts of terrorism committed by those that claim to be Muslim (meaning they practice the religion of Islam), this could be said of many other religious groups, as well. Including Christianity, Jews, and even atheists. How many Americans, do you think, are truly aware that not all Middle Easterners are Muslim? Or, more importantly, that not all Muslims interpret the Quran or even Mohammed's teachings, the same as some of the extremists within the group do? In fact, I would go so far as to say that much like Christianity, the majority of Muslim believers do not condone terrorist acts; and that, just as in Christianity, it is only those that have twisted the applicable scriptures- Bible or Quran- to fit their own agenda, that use it to justify such acts.

I'll put this in context for you. Remember the "Crusades?" These were perpetuated by predominately "Christian" rulers, ostensibly to reclaim Jerusalem and the Holy Land from the various "oppressors." The "Crusades" were also used to justify acts that could only be classified as terrorist, against other groups as well. Though religion was cited as the main reason for these attacks; in reality, the attacks had more to do with maintaining land, power and wealth, for European rulers and/or the Papacy, than for religious beliefs. In addition to the "Crusades," there are numerous other instances where a person, or group of people-other than Muslims- has used one reason or another to commit acts of terrorism. Sometimes the reason is religion. For example, anti-abortionists that bomb abortion clinics; Catholics and Protestants in Ireland. Other times, the reason is political or power induced. The examples for this include: kings and presidents throughout the world being killed by terrorists from their own country; the Japanese, in bombing Pearl Harbor; the bombing of the King David Hotel in Jerusalem in 1946, by Jewish terrorists(this is the most deadly terrorist act that has ever taken place in Palestine or Israel to this day!); and let's not forget Timothy McVeigh, Theodore Kaczynski, or White Supremacists in the American south (KKK).

My point here, is that Muslims are not the only group to have factions within, that commit atrocious acts, nor are Christians, nor are whites, nor blacks, nor Jews, nor ANY other group. Each of these groups could be said to have committed numerous categories of assaults that the victims would consider terrorist. So why is it then, that anyone can justify hatred or intolerance, directed toward any other group, based on the actions of a few???!!! What happened to "love your enemy" and "judge not, lest you be judged?" Just because we don't agree with a group's religious beliefs is no reason to judge them all the same, and there is NO reason to judge any group negatively, strictly on the basis of race, skin color or ethnicity. Absolutely no reason.

Now that I've finished my rant, its time to look at what we can do about this. First of all, each of us needs to examine our hearts and our motives, and adjust our thinking according to what is "true, noble, just, pure, lovely and of good report" (ref. Phil 4:8). Secondly, we need to teach our children this Truth. Bigotry does not fit any of the definitions of those words. Our children learn what we teach them. Are you teaching them good or evil? Thirdly, we need to take a stand against such things as I have shared with you today. Let it be known that love is the answer, not hate. As long as we allow the continuation of these attitudes, and don't voice our objections, they will continue. Being a Christian does not mean being quiet when we ought to be loud. That's not humility, that's just fear and laziness. Now, perhaps the attitudes will continue regardless of what we do, but that does not negate our responsibility to do something about it. This is called social responsibility, and ultimately, it is an area in which we that are Christians will be judged. We must do whatever we can to thwart the deceiver's plans to cause chaos and hatred to run rampant; and the only antidote to hatred is love. What do you say? Are you with me? Have a great week, and blessings to you all.

Finals, Fevers, Flu and Feeling Frazzled

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 22:12:00 +0000

Ever feel like life is conspiring against your every effort to have a relaxed day (much less more than just "a day")? That is my feeling lately, especially the last two days. You see, it's the end of the school year, here, and having my daughter schooled through the California Virtual Academy means that one, I have to be sure she stays caught up- and when she isn't, making sure she gets caught up; and two, that she has time to study for her finals, so that we can show that having her home has been a good decision- beneficial for her grades and study habits. What that means is that I'm spending significantly more time looking into her lessons, in order to try to help her study and understand each subject. I'd really like to know: Can anyone explain to me what the value of learning what the figurative language means in poetry, has for adulthood? I'm serious. If you can tell me a valid use for this knowledge, for the average person (not including teachers- English or otherwise) I would like to know what it is. Anyway, back to the subject at hand (no pun intended.) I like learning, but I didn't care much for school when I was there, and I'm not liking it much more now. I think I'm just nuts. Maybe someday, I'll look back on this and find that it did help me in some way, as I'm sure that it must be. (Right?) I just don't see it right now. (Except of course, for having my daughters unspoken gratitude.) :)

So after the day's school work was done, we took some time to go play at the skatepark, so that Mercedes could hang with her "newly found" brother (her father- whom we just found, as some of you know- has a son as well.) While we were there, Mercedes fell and hurt her wrist. Though we don't think it's broken, it is certainly hurting quite a bit. After coming back home, getting ready for dance practice, and going to dance; we then had a graduation to attend, and more of her "lost" family to meet. We didn't get home until about 9:30. I just started to relax, and was getting ready to go to bed, when horror of horrors, the next installment of my trying day was to begin.

My daughter (the youngest one) woke up at about 11:00 with her bed full of vomit. So I did what any caring mother would do: I cleaned her up, cleaned her bed up, gave her a drink to rinse out her mouth, put clean sheets and blankets on the bed, and put her back down. Less than 30 minutes later, she was screaming again! I went back in there, and this time, it was much messier! YUCK! My poor baby had a case of the stomach flu.

After a night consumed by holding her over the edge of my bed to be sick (it's the only way either of us could get what little bit of sleep we did) and much of yesterday rushing to her side to place a bowl under her mouth (and cleaning up when I wasn't fast enough) I finally took her to the doctor. I was told it was "the sickness of the week" and that it was going around. Apparently the doctor was right, because when she sent me to the Children's Hospital to have the baby treated for dehydration, it seemed almost every child there, was there for the same thing. We spent the evening sitting in uncomfortable chairs (remember this is after almost no sleep, and an already frazzling two days) with her in a fever induced sleep. I got to hold her down while they gave her tylenol for her fever in the only other way to do it, when a person can't keep anything down (use your imagination, it's not hard to figure out.) A few hours later, I then got to hold her down again while they gave her IV fluids. I think I cried more than she did. This is my two year old, we're talking about here. She kept telling me she wanted to go home, and that she was all better now. :( Well, after the IV and the medicine they gave for her stomach through the IV, she did look much better. No more vomiting, and no more fever. We got home about 10:30. I did get some sleep last night, but then this morning, the fever was back, and although there was no vomiting, we had other messes ALL DAY LONG! I think I preferrd the other. I know the smell of my house was better with the other. So could you all do me and my family a favor? Pray for us. Pray that I can keep my sanity, that my baby gets well, that my other daughter's wrist heals quickly and that we can somehow get back to a state of normalcy. I hate that when it rains it pours! Have a blessed week, all of you, I'm not sure I'll be up to posting again before the week is over.

On The FlipSide....

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Sat, 31 May 2008 22:34:00 +0000

And here we are...on the flip side of my semi-long absence. Did you think I was gone for good? Well, hopefully, you are happy when I say, "No, I'm not gone for good." There have been things going on, that have required more of my attention, lately, than before, and so I just haven't had the time to come and say hello to you. I've missed you all though!! So now, I'll attempt to catch you up.

Some of you know that we recently made contact with my eldest daughter's father, and that she was going to be meeting him soon thereafter. The first meeting took place, and was just a bit awkward- certainly not a "Hallmark moment" that you see on TV when long lost parents meet their children- but not because of any lack of desire to reunite on either of their parts. It was just plain weird. No one knew what to talk about really- though Mercedes and he had spoken on the phone a number of times before the meeting took place- and well, what adult man really knows what to say to a teenage girl- especially one that is essentially a stranger, unless they are of an educator or youth leader persuasion? But other than that, it was fine. We have all been in contact again since then, in a carnival setting, and that went better than the first meeting. Mercedes got to spend the majority of the day getting to know her little half-brother, and she thinks he's "the coolest 8 year old" she's "ever met." We won't tell her other brother she said that, since he isn't 8 anymore... :) She will soon be meeting her aunt, cousins, and her grandmother as well, at a graduation ceremony. I'll fill you in on the details of that situation, after it takes place. :) All in all, I think we're all adjusting well to the changes that have taken place, and we're continuing to learn how to adjust to the ones to come. To that end, I'd like to thank all of you that have kept us in your prayers, and ask that you continue to lift us up, as you feel led. Your caring has been greatly appreciated.

In addition to that, there have been other exciting things happening as well. About six months ago, the pastor of Worship and Arts of our church notified me (and some others, on the drama team) that my name and headshot had been given to the California Southern Baptist Convention's media production team, and that I may be contacted about playing a part in a video series that they were doing. I was also told, however, that just because our information was given, that it did not necessarily mean that we would be chosen,; so not to be upset, if we didn't receive any communication from them. Well a month or so passed, and I didn't hear anything, so I naturally assumed that I had not been chosen, and I was ok with that- though the prospect had seemed exciting to me. Fast forward to about 3-4 weeks ago. The media production director for the CSBC emailed me, asking me to play the lead female character! So, to make a long story short, I have been busy shooting scenes, crying on cue (the character has some issues in her life, that are good cause for crying), and just having fun in general. If you'd like to see some pictures from the promotional photo shoot, you can find them on his blog, at this address: Avant Garde Faith At some point in the future, the video will be available online, and when it is, I'll be sure to share it. (If you are interested in seeing some of his other work, they can be found here: The Seeker, Pray for America, and Grace.) The purpose of this video, from what I understand, is to raise awareness of missions and outreach needs, especially in California, though the video does not have any dialogue that would preclude it being used in other locales. I feel so blessed, that the Lord saw fit to bless me with a talent that I am so passionate about, and that that talent can be used in such a way, to bring glory to Him. Thank you, Jesus!

Though there's plenty of other stuff that has kept me from blogging, I'll just share one last thing, and then I'll be off again (I don't know for how long.) My six year old daughter Aniston, decided that she wanted to get her haircut, because she has so much of it, and it is so curly, that it hurts her for me to brush it, and it's difficult for her to care for herself. So...she decided that she wanted to do something with her hair to help other little girls that don't hav hair of there own. That's right, she donated her hair to Locks of Love, today, and I couldn't be more proud of her. You can see the before, during and after shots below. For the past week, until I could find where to take her to have it done, she has prayed for the little girl that will use "her wig" (she thinks her hair will be enough to make up one wig, and I haven't corrected her) and that it will be enjoyed, and will make the other little girl happy. Does anyone else see how blessed I am?!?!

These above are "Before" shots

And here we are "during" (that is 10 inches of hair, people!)

And...an "after" shot. Isn't she too cute for words?

I hope to have the time to write again soon, and not be gone so long this time (since summer is coming, perhaps I'll have a little more time--No School, YEAH!!!) However, if you find that I've been gone awhile, rest assured, that if the Lord sees fit for me to remain here on earth, that at some point, I will be back again. Thanks for continuing to visit, and I'll "talk" to you soon. Blessings to you all!

Epiphany!!

noreply@blogger.com (Shalene) — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:30:00 +0000

Have you ever had one of those moments where you thought you understood something, fairly well, only to realize in that split second moment, that NOW you TRULY understood? Well, I had one of these recently.

I've been reading a book by John Piper, entitled "Don't Waste Your Life!" and while I was aware of him as a pastor, I was not aware that he was an author, or that his writing was so inspirational and even educational. It was while I was reading this book, and studying the doctrine of tithes and offerings, and how it applies to New Testament Christians, that I had my epiphany moment. You see, I always thought I pretty firm grasp of what the Bible meant when it said "the Lord will provide for your needs". I was fully cognizant of the fact that what I think I need, and what God knows I need are not necessarily the same thing. (To be completely honest, they are probably rarely the same thing. I am a mere fleshly human, after all.)

In the very first chapters of this book, it finally became truly clear to me what the Lord means by our "needs". I guess I always took it for granted that food and clothing were needs, regardless of the situation; and that therefore, I would always be provided with at least that much. I have now come to understand, however, that God will provide these to me, as needs, if I do indeed need them in order to continue to live my life in faith in Him alone. I don't know how I ever thought anything other than that. I admit to being ashamed of not seeing this, even after all the time I have spent studying the Word. But I thank the Lord that now I understand, and now I pray that I can apply it. The Lord does not promise any of us, at any time, that we will be free from poverty or want, even that of food or clothing, in some situations. Think of the severely impoverished believers in Third World countries. They have needs so much larger and more severe than I could ever dream of, in my own life! And yet, they continue in faith, because the Lord has provided that which they need to do so.

That brings me to another truth that this book brought home; and one that I had never really considered before. And that was this: Have you ever noticed that few believers, here in the West, have ever been asked by an unbeliever "what is the reason for your hope?" You know, that question that we are all supposed to be ready and willing to answer, anytime we are asked? The reason, John Piper states, is that unbelievers don't ask, because our lifestyles shout out to them that we hope for the same things they (unbelievers) hope for. We are consumed, as much, if not more, than they are, by our possessions, and our luxuries. We have become, in large part, a society beset by wealth and comfort, unimaginable by those truly in poverty. Sure, we may have difficulty paying bills, and we may not have a new car- or any car at all, we may even have some genuine needs. However, I for one, agree that we are a far cry from those believers in Acts that "sold all their possessions and shared with anyone as had need."

Many of us give the requisite 10% to our home churches, and sometimes more. Others may not tithe at all, because they believe in giving generously without regard to percentages. But here's a thought...how many of us have ever actually considered selling all our possessions, and living only on what we absolutely need, in order to continue in faith? A heart-breakingly few! I ashamedly must include myself in those that had not even considered it before now. I don't know that I could do it. Could you? Could you truly leave behind everything and follow where the Lord leads you? Has your comfort in this life become more important to you than following Him? Just an FYI, in case you're not aware: that makes your possessions and your comfort an idol. It makes my possessions and comfort an idol, as well. I am not pointing my finger at anyone, anymore than I am pointing it right back at myself. (Probably more so, back at myself.)

I have been thoroughly convicted recently of my love of my comfort and financial security. I have become increasingly aware that I live a life that few would be hard pressed not to describe as comfortable, at the very least. More likely, they would describe me and my family as wealthy. We live in a nice 4 bedroom house, in a suburb of a major California city, we have two cars, and more possessions than we ought to have. Is it enough that we give everything we have that is extra to others (whether it be our home church or people in need)? Or should we be looking at how we can enjoy less comfort and luxury, so that we have even more to give? These are the questions I ask myself. Do we truly need a nice house, in a nice neighborhood? Do we truly need a closet full of clothes? Do we truly need a garage full of items just being stored- just in case we might someday want to use them? Do we truly need a refrigerator and freezer full of food, that we don't consume immediately? Do each of our children truly need their own bedrooms? Regardless of whether these are the actual number of possessions we have or not, the fact remains that anything over and above an actual need is just that- a comfort and a luxury.

Though having things, in and of itself, is not a bad thing, it only becomes an idol when we lead others astray by giving them a false impression of who the Lord is, and what He wants for our lives. It's true, the Lord does bless us, and I would say that He enjoys blessing us for our faithfulness. However, when it comes to the point that His glory is no longer the main attraction in your life, and your possessions are, it becomes nothing short of sinful idolatry. Having your lifestyle be the main attraction to others, detracts from God's glory in many ways. The only way that it could give God glory, is if God's love was manifested by how financially blessed He made all believers., and that is just not true.

Despite what many Word-Faith teachers preach, God does not care whether or not you are financially secure. He does not care if your stock portfolio increases in value. It does not even matter to Him what you wear, so long as you keep your faith in Him, and are an effective ambassador for Him. For some, that does mean clothing- but only because it is a NEED. Sometimes, His blessings do manifest themselves as income. However, He doesn't bless because we give...He blesses so that we CAN give.

How many of you have thought about this? I mean truly thought about it deeply and prayerfully? Have you ever wondered if your life and your lifestyle portray a love of God, or just a love of money and things? It's not enough to be a good person, or even a good person that has faith in Jesus as their Savior. There are countless numbers of people in the World that could be considered good, and give even more than many Christians do. The only acceptable means of giving God all the glory is to let your love of Him, manifest itself to all, in every aspect of your life. Including what you own, and what you cherish. How many of us, today, can truly say that we die to self each day; if we will not give up our creature comforts to prove our love of Him above all?

Don't get me wrong. I am fully aware that for some unbelievers, seeing Christians that seem to live nice, comfortable lives, is an incentive to believe. How sad though, that we should have ever gotten to the point that we would give the impression that following Christ will make our lives comfortable, and that our possession would multiply for our own comfort?! That is not a true vision of Christ, nor is it what the Bible clearly teaches for those that would follow Him. Jesus was clear that those that follow Him will have difficulty. That those that follow Him would be impoverished, in many cases. He was clear that our treasure should be in Heaven, rather than here on earth. He was also more than clear that all that we have is meant to further His work, and His message here on earth. It was never meant for us, as believers, to hoard our blessings, and to keep our storehouses full, for ourselves to use.

Having shared my epiphany with you, I invite you to analyze and pray about your own life. Only God can determine the state of your faith, and only God can judge your heart. What will He find is your greater love? Him or what you own and possess? I, obviously, will be praying about how He wants me to use this knowledge, and how I am to apply it to my own life; and I encourage you to do the same. Just imagine how much we could glorify the Lord, if we were willing to give up even a portion of our wants- seeing them for what they are, and not as needs! I pray the wisdom that only God can provide, and the discernment that only prayer and His intercession can bring, over your life and mine today. May you be blessed in all aspects of your life, and may you and I, both, use those blessings to give Him glory above all things.