Robin's Nest

THURSDAY'S TREASURE with guest writer DIANE CRAVER

2012-01-26T06:00:00.016-06:00

“God’s Timetable”

Writen By

Diane Craver

Around three years ago, my husband Tom said to me, “I think we should sell our house and land.”

“Why do you want to move?” I was surprised because we had built our Cape Cod house after we bought ten acres. At this time, we’d lived in our house for twenty-one years. I had no desire to move. Both of us had saved labor expenses by doing some of the work inside ourselves. With raising six children in this house, we had created tons of family memories.

“I want to downsize. I think we should buy a ranch. Or we can build a one floor house on our land.”

Although only in his late fifties, Tom already had one hip replacement and arthritis in several joints. I understood why he didn’t want to continue taking care of our land. At one time, he’d farmed our back fields to raise crops for our chickens and pigs. Without livestock and doing farming any longer, he was ready to downsize.

I didn’t get on board with this idea at first, but then agreed with him that it was a good time to downsize to a smaller house with less land. Instead of having six children at home, we only had two daughters with special needs living with us. We started looking at ranches and found a brick house with five acres. Tom and I loved it. With three bedrooms, the house would be perfect for our family of four. A large portion of the land was wooded so would require little mowing. We happily wrote a contract and listed our house with a realtor. No one bought our house so we were unable to buy the ranch. We decided it wasn’t God’s plan for us to have the house. Eventually, we wrote contracts on two other houses but lost both to other buyers. After no success with a realtor, we tried to sell our house ourselves.

When we couldn’t buy a house and sell ours, Tom and I decided to build a ranch style house on our own acreage and sell our present home with the least amount of land possible. Tom had the zoning person for our township look over our possible land site and building plans. The zoning guy seemed sure that our application would be approved to build on our land. Tom and I picked out house plans and signed a building contract. We paid the $200 fee to the township trustees and were excited about our floor plans for our new house. We were shocked when the township rejected our application. The township trustees informed us that we might win against their strict building requirements if we hired a lawyer. We decided not to spend money on a lawyer with no guarantee we’d win.

God always knows best. Tom and I are glad our house didn’t sell when we had it on the market which would’ve caused a move to a smaller house, because our twenty-four-year-old daughter, Emily, moved back home last September. We never saw this coming.

After graduating from college with a degree in microchemistry, she took a year off to work in Columbus, Ohio and to apply to several optometry programs. She was accepted at several places, but her dream was to live in a warmer climate. She happily decided on Nova University in Florida. We moved her in July to Fort Lauderdale to start her education to become an optometrist. Because of her decision to live on campus and not wanting to take her older car, we tried to sell the Honda Civic. In the past, my husband has always sold our vehicles quickly. We were surprised when no one bought it. It ran great and was reasonably priced. I starting realizing that God knew Emily might need her car again, and told Tom that we better stop trying to sell it.

Emily hated working on cadavers which was required in the beginning of her program. She also disliked other aspects in this field of study. She received an A on her first exam but still felt like she had made a huge mistake. However, she tried to stick it out. After experiencing panic attacks, she withdrew. She’s now living at home with us to save money so she can pay off her college loans. Although she was only there for forty days, she’s responsible for several thousand in tuition and board plus her undergraduate college loan.

If we had sold our house, we could have made it worked and had our daughters share rooms, but it’s nicer for each woman to have her own space upstairs. Emily’s working and her schedule is different than her sisters. Another blessing is that we didn’t sell Emily’s car. Obviously, she needs it to drive to her job at University of Cincinnati.

Without feeling any urgency to move, we’ve taken the for sale sign down. Tom’s happy because the study I used for my writing is now his. He has his own “man cave” with his favorite chair and antiques in here. J I’m sure someday we still might downsize to a smaller house with less land, but I’m confident it will be according to God’s timetable for us. Not ours.

Life is so much easier when you trust God’s journey path for your life. As it says in Psalm 23:3, “He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.”

Diane Craver enjoys her life with her husband, six children, daughter-in-law, and new grandchild in southwestern Ohio. Diane has published through a variety of houses, including Booklocker.com, Samhain, Desert Breeze, Whimsical Publications, and Victory Tales Press. She writes fun and inspiring stories filled with memorable characters. Diane gives thanks to God daily for all her wonderful blessings. To learn more about Diane and her writing, visit her website & blog at: http://www.dianecraver.com/ and http://www.dianecraver.com/blog.

Diane is the author of, A Christmas Gift, and The Proposal, out now! Friends, check out Diane's sites. She is a gifted writer and a sweet woman of God.

Diane, thank you for sharing with me and my readers. What a wonderful illistration of God's wondrous plan for our lives. He is forever showing us He knows best. I am still learning to quiet myself and allow Him to take the lead. I hope you return to share more of your heart and God's Word. Blessings to you sweet friend:)

Do we really appreciate all He does?

2012-01-25T11:46:00.001-06:00

Do we really appreciate Jesus for all He is? Does it really come down to what He does? Now there is a thought to ponder. We can walk close to Jesus when gifts are coming in every form and all is good in our life, but what about that moment when everything changes? Does our walk then change too? There have been times I have caught myself taking a step back when things seem to fall apart. I find myself wondering, "Okay now, we were having a great walk, now where did You go?"

Come to find out later on, He didn't go anywhere. I'm the one who moved. I'm the one who was lacking in my faith just because I didn't see the blessings as they were. Jesus was alive and well. He was working and those moments that I thought my blessings were going to others? Well, turns out even in those times where I thought things were falling apart, Jesus was hard at work. It would be later that I would reap those blessings.

Appreciation for Jesus changes according to our circumstances. We tend to look for something to see, when in fact, Jesus isn't looking for our approval. He isn't playing hide and seek with us. We need to focus on Him instead of our circumstances and our needs. Isn't that so true? The moment I take my eyes off Jesus is when I see those needs that are not being met. I see my circumstances that are not changing for the better. Folks, there are times we gotta go through the fire to see the light. Sometimes that no answer is the best answer we could ever hope for. We just don't realize it until that later yes comes along. It's then we begin to thank Jesus for all He is doing, but what about that no we received? We too should be thanking Him for that answer. It's from that no that a yes came. We cannot see all that Jesus sees. In a way, that's kind of awesome. It gives us an opportunity for our faith to grow and our witness to mature.

Take a look at John 4:4-54. This is the story where Jesus brings healing to the son of a nobleman. This again is one of those stories where the people want to see a miracle. This man's son was close to death. He was very sick. Jesus had just turned water into wine (John 2:1) and now the people are looking for more. Isn't that sad how what we have is never enough? We are always looking for more. When one blessing comes we are asking for another before we can fully appreciate the one before us.

People had seen Jesus perform the miracle of turning water into wine. Now, in this crowd, people are looking for more. Are they really seeking a Jesus as a Savior or are they searching for a genie in a bottle?

My mother in law is one of those folks who is never satisfied. She is always left wanting more. She is on the search for that great find, only to find it and yet again go search for more treasure. Yes, that ever present attitude of, "Gimme more". When we are not content with who we are or what we have we are left seeking. That can make for a lonely life and it can turn others away.

One year I gave her this beautiful bathrobe for Christmas. Oh, it was lovely. Gave my mother one just like it only in a different color. My mother loved her gift! My mother in law? Not so much. She even said to me, "This is nice, but I would have rather had another color". When your the giver and you get that after searching for that perfect gift, well, it leaves you feeling as though your not good enough and your gift giving skills could use some work.

For her birthday one year I searched for the perfect gift. I knew in my heart what it was. She loves flowers and plants. She didn't have a fern. That is exactly what I picked out for her. This was the biggest fern I had ever seen. It was gorgeous! I gave it to her with her card and she smiled. A few days later I went over and do you know she gave that fern to a friend? Yes, she gave it away. It was as though my gift wasn't good enough for her. It left me heart broken.

How do we think Jesus feels when He gives and gives and gives and we look at Him and say, "Um, this is nice, but I would have preferred ______". Jesus is the ultimate gift giver! He know the perfect gift and the perfect timing. He gives gifts that keep on giving.

This nobleman was asking for a miracle. It wasn't that he had faith, it was that he was in need. He was focused on the need, not the Savior before him. This man was begging Jesus. Have you been there? I know I have. I have been on my knees begging Him with everything I have. Tears falling and heart on my sleeve, just as this man. This father who is begging for his child. What this man didn't realize was that his very child was too the child of God. Jesus knew his need before he spoke it. Jesus knew what needed to be done. Can you envision this scene as this man is begging Jesus to heal his child? The man is telling Jesus to hurry before his child dies. Really? Does Jesus need to be told to hurry? Where was the faith?

Although we do not always see Jesus at work first hand, He is always at work. When we receive a blessing out of no where, isn't that special? Doesn't that make us shout glory to all of heaven? We shouldn't expect any less from a Savior who did give ALL for a people He loves.

He always has our best interests under control. We often focus on the need instead of our Savior. That was what was happening here. But, Jesus healed the child at the very moment this man was crying out for help. This man goes home and hears that his son lives! What a blessing. It was at the moment when the man asked when it was that his son was healed and then he knew. It was the very time he was speaking to Jesus. Because of this not only this man, but his whole household came to faith.

In spite of our neediness and our lack of faith Jesus still shows Himself mighty and glorious before us. Isn't it sad how we continue to ask for more? I find myself doing the very same thing. I need to appreciate what I have and I need to appreciate the One who graciously gives me the very best of Himself.

Being Content

"Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am."

Philippians 4:11

"Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, "I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you," so that we confidently says, "The Lord is my Helper, I will not be afraid. What will man do to me?"'

Hebrews 13:5-6

Giving Praise

"Because Your loving kindness is better than life, my lips will praise You."

Psalm 63:3

Prayer

"Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Jesus Christ."

1 Thessalonians 5:17-18

"And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive."

Matthew 21:22

"But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting anxiously for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to eternal life."

Jude 20

Hope

"Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."

Hebrews 12:1-2

"Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ."

1 Peter 1:13

Belief

"Jesus said to him, "Because you have seen Me, you have believed? Blessed are they who did not see, and yet believed."'

John 20:29

"They said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household."'

Acts 16:31

Lord, today let me learn to appreciate You for who You are. Help me to be content in all things and when I think something is not as it should be, help me to simply trust in You. Thank You, Lord for your many gifts. For those gifts that keep on giving. Your grace covers all. Help me fight those temptations to complain and to ask for more when all I need is right here before me. Amen

It's not just who you rep, but how you rep!

2012-01-24T13:57:00.000-06:00

When my husband was working for a company a few years back he had to wear a uniform. In that uniform he represented his company. When people saw him they knew just by the uniform who he was representing. If he did a good job that brought in more customers. If he had done his job poorly, customers would have gone and went elsewhere for their business. It wasn't just who he was representing, it was how he was representing.

When I was in high school I went to a Catholic high school. I put on my uniform every morning. Usually I wore a skirt. Now, my skirt just happened to be a little shorter than what it was suppose to be. When people saw me in that uniform they knew where I went to school. It was evident by my uniform. My actions were not always proper. I not only represented that school, I was representing God. At the time I was not doing a very good job. I was more concerned with having fun and doing what I wanted. You can't very well represent God if your motives are for yourself.

Sure, I was a kid. A teenager in fact. I wasn't even Catholic. But I still knew right from wrong and in my flesh I chose wrong instead of right. I was not only representing my school and God, but my parents. A very wise youth pastor shared with me once, "Your reputation will be made known." Those were wise words and words I have never forgotten. My reputation in no way stated that I was a good little Catholic girl, but the very opposite.

Look at Tim Tebow. Ask me today who he plays for and I couldn't tell you. I would have to ask someone. I can't give you any of his stats or even tell you where he is from. What can I tell you? He's the guy who prays before each game and each time he walks out onto the field. He's that guy who points heavenward when something good happens. His reputation is being made known.

Sure, you have people saying how we shouldn't even be talking about Tim Tebow. I think they are wrong. I think he is representing his Savior and in all the attacks, I'd say he is doing a pretty good job of it. I would hope that when people speak my name, whether they know me or not, they would say, "Oh yeah, she's that Christian girl who writes". I would hope that in my walk, that is the first thing others see.

Think about it, Moses came and he represented God. He too represented His Savior that was coming. The disciples represented Jesus as they spread the gospel. As people surrounding them witnessed their walk, they knew they walked with Christ just in their speech and in their actions. Jesus came to represent His Father in heaven. We can look to many in the Bible such as David, Danial, Paul, Ruth, Naomi, and the list goes on and on, of men and women who spent their whole lives representing God.

So, what is our motivation? Where do our words and actions take us? What are people seeing when they get a glimpse into our lives?

We should be thinking about the very things that point to the way we live our life. What do we stand for? How do we treat others? What do we wear? Where do we spend our Friday nights? During the week when we are out of our pew what would people find us doing? What would you be doing two towns from where you live if you knew no one knew you and no one really cared what you were doing?

When others see us, do they see the image of Christ? What is our image portraying? What exactly is our life sowing?

"For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life."

Galatians 6:8

Everything we do we should be considering the effect it has on eternity. Remember, our lives can either bring others to Christ or turn they away from Him. What is your life saying today? Is it saying, "Come, come seek the Savior that lives in me?"

"Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness. carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God."

Galatians 5:19-21

We are to put OFF all of these things. We are to stay clear of them and we are to be so close to Christ that when these temptations enter our mind and our flesh, we should call to Him for strength to overcome them. When we are TOTALLY focused on Him we are not going to sin. It's that moment we take our eyes off of Him that we then fall into our own flesh.

Just as we are to put off those very things, there are things we are to put on and wear so that others can see Christ in us and through us.

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control."

Galatians 5:22

When we walk in this way we are giving others an opportunity to see Christ in action. Our bodies belong to Him. We are the temple for the Holy Spirit. We are to surrender to Him and allow Him to live through us. That calls for obedience. In that obedience we find love. A love for Him that is greater than the love we have for ourselves.

In my younger years I didn't know Christ. So therefore my actions didn't reflect Him. How could they if I didn't walk with Him? Today I do walk with my Savior. My actions should follow my talk. I should be walking the walk and talking the talk. I am a representative of God. I am called to a higher standard than this world calls for. I am to be different and to step out and beyond the walls of my flesh.

"But you did not learn Christ in this way, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus, that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the Spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which created of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of truth."

Ephesians 4:20-24

How are we to live this new life? God gives us all we need. We are impacted with the Holy Spirit to guide us in all things and in all ways. To help us in our daily battle we must put on the armor of God. This is our protection against this world that tries to hold us down and attack us at every angle. We can read all about the armor of God in turning to Ephesians 6:10-24.

We must renew our minds daily. Sometimes from a moment to moment basis. We must be aware of our surroundings and what we allow into our lives. We must be conscience in every area. Satan knows our weak places. He knows what will trip us up. He too knows our strengths and will try to attack, but when we are ready and fully armored we have nothing to fear!

CHASING MONA LISA/TRICA GOYER CONTEST!!

2012-01-24T10:17:00.001-06:00

Chasing Mona Lisa was an awesome book and Trica Goyer ROCKS!! She is having a contest right now. I am giving you all the links so you can sign up. She too is having a party on Facebook!! Come and follow the links and see what the contest is all about!

http://www.facebook.com/events/217278548356161/

http://promoshq.wildfireapp.com/website/6/contests/186404

http://apps.facebook.com/sweepstakeshq/contests/186404

https://promoshq.wildfireapp.com/twitter/233/contests/186404/entries/new

Choosing Words Wisely

2012-01-23T12:41:00.001-06:00

Do we really seem to pay that much attention to the words that come out of our mouths? As a parent, if our child says something mean we say to them, "Now Johnny, that isn't nice at all. You shouldn't say such things." But a few minutes later the phone can ring and we grab it only to catch up on the latest news in town. "Hi Sally, did you hear what happened to Kay? Her kids left home and she is checked into a hospital for drug addiction."

Now for starters, that mother is right. It's not nice to talk mean to others. But what happened to this mother's same virtue when it came to herself? It's like that phone hits our ear and something crazy happens to us. We just can't get enough. I just wonder how many phone calls, emails and texts are sent each and every day involving gossip? I know, I wouldn't want all of my messages recorded for others to hear or see.

As I turned on the news this morning I had my Bible open getting ready to study. My Bible was turned to Ephesians 4 and as I am reading I hear the news anchor say, "Gossip? Is it really bad or could it be good for your health?" Ah, the Lord was speaking to my heart loud and clear. At first I thought, goodness, people are nasty, aren't they? But then I realized God wasn't concerned with those others this morning. He was speaking to me.

A few days ago I felt that I was attacked by another Christian. Mistaken words? Misunderstanding? Wrong choice of words? Sure, it could have been. But just the use of one word turned an opinion into a mess. Why did I feel attacked? There was no encouragement or inspiration in the words being shared. I didn't feel love at all. So, what did this Christian girl do? I could have let it go, but I didn't. I was down right angry. So, my words went pounding right back. Sure, I tried to be respectful and say what I thought had to be said, but there was no doubt anger in my words reflected back. In hindsight, I know I should have just let it go. I shouldn't have replied back at all. I should have been more concerned with my character than the faults of the other person's words. But, it stung. When we are hurt by words, we hurt back with words.

My son is that young man who makes mistakes, just like his parents. He is not perfect and he will tell you without a doubt that his behavior is not always Christian like. For me, I admire his honesty. He isn't one to pretend he is someone he isn't. Like me, he tries to walk as the Lord calls him, but on this journey we make mistakes. It's through those very mistakes that we learn the lessons in life. As my son has shared some of his mistakes over the last summer, he has gotten more gossip and mean remarks that have stained his heart than he ever thought he would. As he was being honest he thought he would receive encouragement. Words expressing a love for him. Since his sharing of his summer failures, I think his heart has been more hurt by those very people he expected more from.

When Christians gossip about other Christians we are displaying to the world around us that we are no different. When in fact, it should be just the opposite. We should be cheering one another on with words that edify. We should be encouraging one another through prayer. This world attacks enough. We shouldn't be receiving it from the very people who call themselves Christian or family.

"Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear."

Ephesians 4:29

Could the Word be any clearer? We are not to use unwholesome speech. Unwholesome is rotten. It is foul. It is unpleasant. We don't want anything unwholesome entering our mouths. Just maybe we should be more concerned with what is going out of them.

"Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption."

Ephesians 4:30

Can you imagine our Father when unwholesome words come from our mouths? In Him we are changed. We have become new and our old ways are gone from us. Just because we are a Christian it doesn't mean we are not going to falter, but it should mean that we are more aware of our self because we represent our Father in heaven. Our words can either bring people to know Him or turn them away from Him. When the world around us hears us gossiping, what are we saying to them? This is the very reason the world looks at the Christian realm with the idea that we are hypocrites and nothing about us is any different.

"But now you also, put them all aside: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from your mouth."

Colossians 3:8

Goodness, think about it. What do we do when we are angry? We spew words. We take our anger out on that person by sharing with others just what they did to us. Have you been there with me? There have been times when I have sat back wishing I could take back my words. We cannot take them back, but we can open our heart and humbly apologize. We can take those words and give them to the Lord and say, "Lord, I have really messed up here. Please take these hateful words and use them to glorify Your holy name. Hey, if God can take ash and turn it into to beauty, He too can take our words and change us to look more like Him, by simply just humbling our hearts and being honest.

Isn't that they key here? Being honest? Is it really our business to give our opinion about everything? No. There are times we need to be quiet. There too are times we need to stand and tell others to quiet themselves. When we enter a room of gossip we have three choices. We can either take part and then spread what we hear. We can leave the room or we can stand and speak up. Whether we leave or speak up is the Lord's call. We just need to be so close to Him that when He speaks we hear Him and we follow.

Our speech should be instructive, encouraging, uplifting, and suited for the moment. Ouch! My words are not always edifying and I know the Lord looks down upon me and wonders, "Child of Mine, what are you doing here? Listen to Me. Follow Me. Use the gift of words I have given you to glorify Me." Too often my words tear down another. I need to be watchful over my own mouth.

"And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the enter body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell. For every species of beasts and birds, of reptiles and creatures of the sea, is tamed and had been tamed by the human race. But on one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison."

James 3:6-8

Think of that small spark that starts a forest fire. Think of just a little poison that kills one who has been bitten. Think of the spread of germs that comes from that one infected person who enters a room. Gossip is a wild fire out of control. Gossip is a poison that will kill a friendship. It is the very sickness that can overtake a church. All done with one word.

We must be accountable for the words that come from our mouths. It's easy to blame another person. Friends, if we are not part of the problem or the solution then we need to butt out! The problem is the very fact that we make ourselves the solution. We think we need to speak out on a matter, when in fact what we really need to do is just hush. It's when we speak when we shouldn't that we are now part of the problem and in speaking we have just made the problem much worse.

"Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma."

Ephesians 5:1

Isn't that simple? Just imitate our Savior. If we are always focused on Him, we are going to be mindful of what comes out of our mouths. If gossip is coming from our mouths it is a reflection of our relationship with Him. Another huge, OUCH!

Every word we speak should be in love. Our words should be prayed over. We can begin each and every day with a prayer to God, "Please Lord, fill me with Your Spirit. Give me Your words. Help me to encourage and inspire others today to bring a pleasant fragrance to Your holy name."

"That I may make it clear in the way I ought to speak. Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person."

Colossians 4:4-6

"Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; Keep watch over the door of my lips."

Psalm 131:3

Salt adds flavor. It brings out the other flavors to make the whole meal more inviting. Just a little salt goes a long way. Salt is used to protect and preserve. Salt is a flavor enhancer. Pure salt cannot be defiled. It's when other things are added in that the pure salt looses it's flavor. We need to make sure our words are pure without defilement. When our words are spoken in love the person who receives them will feel that love. They will find grace in our words and will respond in love. It's when our words are spoken without prayer and in anger that all goes wrong. May we use our words to inspire and edify one another.

"You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men."

Matthew 5:13

Lord, make my words, Your words. May I encourage and inspire through the words I choose to use. May I be a light to this world and a reflection of You. Help me not to speak out of turn and to hold my tongue when anger comes pouring over me. Help me to choose my words wisely and before I respond, please pour Your wisdom and insight over me, that I might speak in love and not in anger. Forgive me when I have faltered. Lift me up in Your Word today and may I walk closer to You, knowing just important my words are and the impact they can have upon another. Amen

WHERE WILDFLOWERS BLOOM by ANN SHOREY

2012-01-21T10:08:00.000-06:00

Okay friends, this is the first time I have ever read a book penned by Ann Shorey. It will defintely not be the last! Wow! Wow! Wow! For me to say that I LOVED this book isn't describing it enough. From the first page until the last, Ann Shorey, had me hooked.

This is the first book of her new series, "Sisters at Heart", and I must say, I cannot wait for the second book to come out!

The story line is amazing and the characters are vibrant and just so relatable. On some level I felt I could connect with each of them. This story takes place post Civil War, in a small town of Noble Springs, Missouri. Now, coming from Missouri, maybe this is just another reason I could connect with this story. There is such rich history here and I feel that Ann told this story with passion. Each chapter just flowed and I was never stuck or left wondering what happened. She has this gift of telling the story, adding detail, but leaving enough room for your imagination to take hold.

What love is that we learn we can't run from our memories. Even though this life brings us heartache, it too brings blessings. If we aren't careful we can be too focused on those heartaches and we miss out on the blessings right before our eyes.

This is one of those books to treasure and to pass around to those who love Historical Fiction and Romance. I even hate to put it into that category because it is just so much more. Even though it's historically based, it is a book we can relate to in today's world.

I am now a huge fan of Ann Shorey. I cannot wait to read more of her books!

Ann is having a contest right now! Follow this link for details on how to enter! http://www.annshorey.com/contest.html

This book was a gift from Revell for it's review.

Ann Shorey is the author of The Edge of Light, The Promise of Morning, and The Dawn of a Dream. She has also published selections in the Cup of Comfort series and in Chicken Soup for the Grandma's Soul. Shorey lives with her husband, Richard, in Oregon.

I Am In Love With Georgie Designs!

2012-01-20T11:36:00.000-06:00

If you know me well, you know that I am that girl who loves bracelets. Part of being a great girlfriend is sharing our newest finds. Girls, have I got a place for you! First of all, have you ever heard of etsy? Well, if you haven't been there, you are missing out, sweet friends! You can find anything and everything and most of the gems you find are all hand made designs.

So, as I am on etsy one day I come across Georgie Designs, by Robyn Klauer. Robyn, designs bracelets, rings, ear rings and necklaces. Her designs are sleek, simple, elegant and breathtakingly beautiful. I love them because they are just me! I have quite a collection growing. I have silver bracelets and gold bangles that go with everything. If I want to dress it up or just be casual, which you all know I am, I just put her bracelets on and yes, I feel special.

Robyn, is just so sweet and to chat with her, well, you'd think you have known her for years. She is a family woman, a mother and a military wife. For that, I think she should be celebrated. She has been designing jewelry for years now and her business is growing rapidly. I can totally see why. When I contact Robyn she is so willing to help me. She goes far beyond anyone I have ever come in contact with at a store. With Robyn it's personal and you can tell she enjoys designing jewelery and making others smile.

I wanted to highlight Robyn and Georgie Designs today because I just love sharing great finds. If you are looking for that perfect gift I would encourage you to check out Georgie Designs. Robyn can take a stone you like in a ring and design it in a bracelet for you. She will design something special just for you. I think that's pretty amazing!

You can find Georgie Designs on facebook too! Just follow the highlighted links and it will take you right to Robyn and her designs. I wish I could show more pictures for you, but you will just have to check out her site and see for yourself. See, this little package with the pretty pink bow? This is how she sends these little gems to you! I love when one of these packages come and I get to unwrap it. There is literally something here for everyone.

For you men out there, your wife, daughter or mother would love something from Robyn's shop. She will fit her designs according to your size. Once you place your order, she goes to work on designing it and sends out to you usually within a few days. Yes, I have become a huge fan of Robyn. Just as I said, when we find a great treasure, we just gotta share it with our girlfriends!

What's my One Word for 2012?

2012-01-19T19:35:00.006-06:00

Last year I share with you all my One Word for the year was Surrender. I struggled with surrendering. This, "Fix it girl", gets in God's way. He is constantly nudging me out of His and reminding me that He doesn't need my help when it comes to fixing things.

I learned to surrender all to the Lord. The good, the bad, and the ugly. In other words, I learned to totally trust him. I think He had been waiting on that one for a while now. So yes, as I surrendered, I grew in faith. Whenver I lost my place I turned and remembered my One Word. That One Word remained with me all throughout the year.

So, now it's time to choose my One Word for this year. I have it. I have prayed over it and my One Word for this year is, Breathe. I want to breathe in ALL God has for me. In each breath I take in I want to bring glory and honor to Him, just as when I breath out, I pray my words inspire and encourage. I want to enjoy each and every moment and learn to slow down. Not just to slow down, but to enjoy the pace. I want to take in all the little things I pass by every day while waiting for the big thing to happen. Do you do that too?

I forget to breathe when I'm anxious. When I am in a rush and yes, when anger clouds my vision. If I can just stop and remember to breathe, God will remind me that He's got it all under control.

Come join me and choose your One Word for 2012 and allow yourself to grow in Christ. Allow your heart to be opened in ways like never before and keep your focus on Him. He's got this, friends! He's got your back. All we must do is breathe in ALL He has and trust Him as we Surrender ALL to Him.

I encourage you to check out the One Word community and the Grit and Glory blog. Both are great blessings jam packed with people just like you, trying to make a difference for the Kingdom of Christ.

THURSDAY'S TREASURE with guest writer JESSICA R. PATCH

2012-01-19T06:00:00.033-06:00

Snow Day…Every Day

written by

Jessica R. Patch

“Snow Day!” Myles was thrilled to stay home.

Bailey grunted, "Just one more day we'll have to make up later." She's so positive.

As I poured my first cup of coffee, the best cup of the day, Myles begged me to go out and play. Bailey's too proud to beg.

"I don't care." I had no intentions of going out. I silently hoped they wouldn’t ask me. I’ve never offered myself up on the altar of frozen toes and fingers. I'm quite happy looking out the window, drinking my coffee, staying warm from the fire. No sireee, I am not an outdoors woman.

They didn’t ask, but as they ran off to gear up for the rare southern snowfall, I hear Bailey say, "Can't wait till Daddy comes home."

Daddy likes snow. Mostly, Daddy likes pelting his children with hardpacked snowballs and watching them drop like flies. I enjoy watching from the window as they scream for him to stop.

A new cup of coffee later, the kids barreled out of their rooms, layered up for the endless snowplay.

"Mom, Bailey says not to eat yellow snow. What's yellow snow?"

I explained and she laughed while opening the back door. The gust of icy wind reminded me why I wasn’t going out.

"Have fun," I called as they took off, Myles slipped on the patio but jumped up. "I'm okay!"

By my third cup of coffee, the backdoor opened. "Look, in or out. I'm not having you drip all over the floors and freeze the house out." I walk into the living room and see Myles, already on the couch with a bowl of Cheetos and Bailey picking up wet clothes.

"What's going on?"

Myles looked at me and stuck his feet out. "I got frostbite."

"You haven't been out long enough for frostbite."

He shrugged. "Have you been out there?"

I got his point. "Bailey, are you going back out?"

"Maybe later."

That was a no. I reheated my cup of coffee, came back into my room and sat at my desk to finish the last page of a Bible study and it hits me.

We, as Christians, are a lot like my family on a Snow Day. We spend a lot of time talking about playing in the snow. I like the idea of it, but I'm not willing to even try. I enjoy the comforts of my own four walls. My kids go, but don't stay out long enough to build anything. They spent more time gearing up than going out.

The world around us is forever like winter. Cold. Bitter. Icy enough for us to get bitten, but we must venture out and DO something. The four walls of our churches are too comfortable. Some talk about going. Some spend all their time gearing up and never going. Some stay inside without ever venturing out and knowing they never will. Some go out but don't stay long--never laying foundations, building relationships with people who need Jesus, or suffering the frigid temperatures to get it done.

It doesn't feel like fun.

Only a few go out and stay out long enough to no longer feel their flesh or their noses run. They work hard. They build. They smile as they do it. They inspire. When they come inside, accomplishment glows from their rosy cheeks and cracked lips. Something wonderful has happened! It's time to come in, get warm, get a bite to eat and a drink then go right back out.

My kids never made it back out. They talked about it throughout the day.

"Maybe tomorrow."

The sun came out. And it melted the snow away, right along with their opportunity.

Don't let your opportunities melt away

Jessica R. Patch lives in the mid-south where she writes contemporary inspirational fiction. She is represented by Rachel Kent of Books & Such Literary Agency. When she’s not glued to her laptop or sneaking off to movies with her husband, she enjoys embarrassing her teenage daughter by wearing pajamas to take her to school, beating her seven-year-old son at board games, and inventing ways to get rid of her irksome dog (she hasn’t actually tried any of them…yet).

You can connect with Jessica here just by clicking on these links:

facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jessica-R-Patch-Writer/209834115730711

her blog http://jessicarpatch.blogspot.com/

goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/4719418-jessica-r-patch

twitter https://twitter.com/#!/jessicarpatch .

Jessica, it has been an honor to have you join me at my Nest. I know my readers have been just as blessed as I have today. I can relate to this story so very well. I think we probably all can at some point. What a great reminder to get out there and live for Christ! To get out there ready for all He has and to encourage others to do it with us! Blessings to you sweet lady. I hope you come back and visit.

Have you met Cathy Richmond? Here's a look at her newest book

2012-01-18T16:30:00.000-06:00

10 Things a Homesteader Knows About Romance

Welcome! My name’s Jesse. I’m trying to make a go of it on a claim southwest of Fargo, Dakota Territory. Let me share with you a few things I’ve learned since mail-ordering for a bride awhile back.

1. Tell your story. A woman wants to know who she’s dealing with, what his values are, where his priorities lie. She wants a man who will tell her how he got to this point in life and what lessons he’s learned along the way.

2. Draw out her story. This might take patience - a bushel of patience - as she decides if you’re someone she can trust. Believe me, she’s worth it.

3. Don’t ignore her pain and fears. This world has plenty of ways of knocking us off our feet. Do what you can to ease her suffering, like offering back rubs. Let her know, none of those scars and bruises from her past makes her any less in your eyes.

4. Ask her to join in your work. You can put out fires a lot faster with her help pumping water. God’s been preparing her for your life together, so let her surprise you with all she’s learned.

5. Treat her like a queen. Well, not having much experience with royalty, I’d best say, treat her with all the kindness you can muster. The temperature’s fine for you, but is it comfortable for her? You’re not hungry, but when’s the last time she ate? And even though you’re wide awake, doesn’t mean she’s not exhausted and needs sleep.

6. God knows your prayers and promises, but your wife needs to hear them, too. Stand up before Him and let her know you’re committed to her. Then worship together. Raising your voices together in praise leads to sweet harmony at home.

7. Kiss gently. Shave off those whiskers if they’re pricklier than a porcupine. Take a bath - you know you need one.

8. Let go of those daydreams about how your wife will look and act. Don’t measure her by how your ma cooked and kept house. Don’t weigh your marriage against anyone else’s. And she’s battling ideas of her own. Best if the two of you can leave all those notions behind and know God provided best for you.

9. Remember how lonely you were before and be grateful. Tell you you love her. Thank her. After all, she didn’t have to marry you.

10. Trust God to provide for the two of you. It’s not all on your shoulders. I’m here to tell you, this was the hardest lesson I’ve had to learn. Could’ve save myself a pile of trouble if I’d figured it out sooner.

The Bible says in Ephesians 5 that we’re supposed to love our wives like Christ loves the church. Now that’s what I call setting a high standard!

Jesse Mason is the hero of "Spring for Susannah" by Catherine Richmond.

Doesn't this sound like an amazing read? If you love Historical Fiction this is a book you will enjoy. I love sharing great books and gifted writers. Goodreads is having a GIVE A WAY right now for, "Spring for Susannah", by Catherine Richmond. Come join, Cathy, and you just might be the blessed winner of this gem that will take you back in time and leave you with a blessing.

You can find Cathy just by following these links:

CatherineRichmond.com

Twitter.com/WriterCatherine

http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=100000348527525

https://www.facebook.com/catherinerichmondfans

He Has Front Row Seating

2012-01-17T11:57:00.000-06:00

John 4:1-16 brings us to the story of Jesus and the woman at the well. The story of the Samaritan woman. Do you know what I see here? Jesus has a love that has no boundaries. He crossed to a place where most would not go and reached out to a woman that many wouldn't would have ignored.

This woman was a social outcast. Human love is not apparent in her life although she continues to seek it. She continues to come up empty handed after she has given all that she has to give. But here, Jesus shows her compassion and a love that is undiscriminating.

While at the well, this woman comes to know Jesus. A Jesus who already knows all about her, but the wondrous thing here, the fact that He is still accepting of her. In verse 16 He tells her to go and get her husband. Jesus already knows she is not married to the man she is with today and He too knows of all the other men that have entered into her life. He wants to be the love of her life. He wants her to let all go and to stop seeking a love that will never satisfy or complete her.

This is what I love and what brings me humbly to my knees. Jesus knows every detail of my life. He knows every dark corner of my past, every thought I encounter today and what I will act upon in my future and He still continues to love me. He chooses to love me. He chose me after all! There is nothing I have done in my past that He doesn't know about. He knows my thoughts, my dreams and my fleshly desires.

He comes to us and just wants us to sit with Him a while. He wants to be the Water we search for to quench our thirst. He wants to be the Bread that we seek to fill us. He wants to be the love of our life and He is willing to go to any cost to bring us to see His love. He went to the cross. A place none of us would want. But He did. He did it all for love.

Can you imagine this Samaritan woman as Jesus is telling her He already knows? I can almost see her eyes as He tells her. I can feel her hands shake as she is sitting before Him. I can understand how she must feel at this very moment realizing every act and every word spoken has gone before His eyes. Jesus didn't want her to feel broken and battered. He wanted her to see beyond her sin. He wanted her to see a new way, a better way. He was ready to comfort her and wash her in His grace. His love was there to cover her sin and bring her to redemption. Here at the well she finds a new release on life.

I think of it as a "Life Trailer". We have trailers for movies and books that give us a small glimpse into what we are about to see, but Jesus doesn't just have a glimpse. He has total view. He has the unedited version. You know, the version we want no one else to see.

Can you see the tape running? No commercials. Just Jesus and our humble hearts as each scene of our life is being viewed by our Savior. There is no one sitting in front of Him to block His view. He has a front row seat. About this time we are wishing we were sitting in the back row so we could sneak out. You know those bad parts we wish we could hide our eyes to keep from watching the horror before us. Even our heart is there in full view.

We see the times we thought no one else was watching. Those messages and texts we send in hopes that only that person will see them. We sit before Him humble and broken and in need of His grace. The beauty? Jesus takes that video and destroys it. He doesn't shelf it to watch over again. He doesn't put it out there for all to see. He brings it to a close and graciously extends His hand of grace and gives us a new tape. No rewind. No fast forward. Just right now, today, in this moment. He erases our past with just, "Forgive me".

He gives us a new scene to explore. A do-over if you will. What we do with the rest of those scenes is totally up to us. This is why scene by scene we need to face the Director. We need to visit the Producer of our great story and act out each scene according to His script. He doesn't need me to improvise. He wants me to take His direction and follow His lead.

He knows the next scene of my story. He knows the last scene and just how it will take place. Through His great motivation and experience He will get us through this scene and the next if we will only take His direction. Even when it's hard for us to get it right and perform with excellence, He knows just what it is going to take bring out the best in each of us.

"For I know the plans that I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. Then you will will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart."

Jeremiah 29:11-12 NASB

"Show me the right path, O Lord; point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by Your truth and teach me, for You are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in You."

Psalm 25:4-5 NLT

Portrait of Anticipation

2012-01-16T14:33:00.001-06:00

Matthew 22:1-14 gives us a beautiful portrait of the marriage feast. A celebration given by our Savior. Jesus is having the biggest celebration and you are invited. He has extended the invitation to ALL. Even though ALL receive the invite, only a few will accept. Can you imagine missing out on the celebration that is not only a party of a lifetime, but a party that lasts forever? I know I am going to attend.

I love this parable. No one has the right garments (dress or tux) for this party. I think of these garments as grace and mercy. All decked out in the finest prepared and designed by our Savior.

Grace is the chosen garment. Jeweled with humility and adorned in belief. This gown is made only of the finest material. Made by Designer of the stars. An original that is priceless beyond anything we could ever afford or offer. He is not only inviting us to the celebration, but He will deliver our gown for this special day.

He sends out messengers who are to arrange invitations for everyone to attend. Instead of people just offering a thank you and accepting the invite, they kill the messengers! Can you imagine? As they are out giving out invites, Jesus is planning the party down to the very last detail. He is awaiting in hope that we will accept. Think of Him as the Great Wedding Planner.

In verse 11 it begins as the King is going over the guest list and sees someone without the garment on He has designed for him to wear. It was made especially for him. It was tailored to fit perfect. But he doesn't have it on. Can you imagine the hurt and insult to the King? He has invited His friend and His friend insists on showing up and doing it his own way. He is turning down all that goes with the invitation. The King has not only given him the tux of a lifetime, but He has extended the invitation. Picture something even more grandeur than the red carpet. These are children of the King of kings showing up!

This man declines the Tux, (grace, mercy and forgiveness all wrapped with love), and wants to show up in his own duds? The King isn't accepting this. He wanted His guest to be humble and to be joyful in the celebration. See, the celebration isn't about us, it's all about Him.

Friends, this gives us a glimpse of the upcoming party. Jesus is sending the invite to ALL. He is doing the designing and planning to surprise us with the greatest gesture of love. Himself. He wants us to be ready. To be prepared in every way. We aren't just so suppose to show up at the last minute or show up late and expect to get in. We have no excuses to give to Jesus after all He has done for us. See, we can only have this celebration because of His birth, His life, His death and His resurrection. The King lives!!

He wants us to graciously prepare. Remember your prom? That first date? Your wedding day? You spent hours on your hair and make up. You searched for the perfect dress. You anticipated the day your date would arrive and now here he is at the door and you are giddy as can be. This is the day you have been waiting for. The one you have been waiting for places that flower on your wrist or the ring on your finger and your heart is overjoyed with excitement.

We should be in great anticipation for this grand event. Jesus wants everything to be perfect and the gift is Himself to us. He has put in every effort to call us and reach us and He is waiting for you to accept. He wants to see you in all the grandeur He has especially for you.

To get ready for this big day all we must do is answer the RSVP with a humble yes and show up wearing the garments He has prepared just for us.

"For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them."

Ephesians 2:8-10

"Know that the Lord your God is God; He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commandments."

Deuteronomy 7:9

Dear Heavenly Father, as I wait in anticipation for You, fill me with Your Spirit and walk with me. May I keep my eyes upon You and while in wait of You may I walk each day giving glory and honor to You through my life in every way.

CHASING MONA LISA written by TRICIA GOYER and MIKE YORKEY

2012-01-13T17:34:00.000-06:00

First let me just say that Tricia Goyer ROCKS!! Each and every book have picked up that she has penned as been brilliant. This is the first time for me to read a work created by Mike Yorkey, but if this is any indication of his other works, they must be amazing.

I loved this book. I love the setting and the time period. The time they put in for research only made this book stand out even more! You gotta love the good guys who spend their days chasing the bad guys.

This story begins around the year of 1944 and war is all around. Germany is attacking and as France is on the brink of liberation they too are trying to protect their precious works of art. Yes, the search is on for stolen art, but this book is so much more! It's intrigue and suspense with romance thrown in to even add more to the package. The story goes quite deep and is one I found filled with suspense.

We have characters that are American, German, French and Swiss all gathered into one spectacular novel. This is a fast paced read with non-stop action. I loved Gabi and Eric. They are heroins and two characters going the distance for a greater cause. What grabs me is the fact they are doing so without fear!

This book was a gift from Revell for it's review. It will be ready for you to grab up on Jan. 12

Tricia Goyer is the coauthor of The Swiss Courier as well as the author of many other books, including Night Song and Dawn of a Thousand Nights, both past winners of the ACFW's Book of the Year Award for Long Historical Romance. Goyer lives with her family in Arkansas.

Mike Yorkey is the author or coauthor of dozens of books, including The Swiss Courier and the bestselling Every Man's Battle series. Married to a Swiss native, Yorkey lived in Switzerland for 18 months. He and his family currently reside in California.

DOWNFALL by TERRI BLACKSTOCK

2012-01-13T16:59:00.000-06:00

As soon as you open the pages of the third installment in the Intervention Series you are instantly hooked until the very last page! I was blessed to read and review, "Intervention", which I also loved. The second book of the series is, "Vicious Cycle". I am going to have to go back and grab that one up. Seriously, you can't go wrong with Terri Blackstock.

This is one of those books that will keep you up late at night until you finish or putting off your chores until the next day. It's just that good! I loved the main character, Emily Covington, and I too loved the premise of the book. Emily is now clean after being shackled by drug abuse. I too love her mother's character. We see her struggle with the fear of her daughter falling back into a life of addiction. Only by faith does this family overcome their fears.

Life brings it's trials to this family and it seems as soon as they find a little peace fear is knocking at their door again. Serious conspiracies are happening and murder is at their door step. Can you imagine someone wanting you dead and trying to figure out who? This is how Terri just brings you in and once I started reading there was no way I was stopping until the last page crossed my vision.

It's a novel that keeps you on your toes. I found myself thinking, "Oh no! Come on, girl. Look around every corner!" You could grab any book of Blackstock and you would be set for the day. Once you begin reading her books she will soon be at the top of your favorites list.

This is one to watch for, friends. It will be coming out in March, so keep your eyes open! While your waiting, grab yourself the first book or take on another series. I love them ALL!!

This book was a gift from Zondervan for it's review.

Terri Blackstock (www.terriblackstock.com) has sold over six million books worldwide and is a New York Times bestselling author. She is the award-winning author of Intervention and Vicious Cycle, as well as such series as Cape Refuge, Newpointe 911, the SunCoast Chronicles, and the Restoration Series.

Being Different Is A Good Kind Of Norm

2012-01-12T17:31:00.002-06:00

As a writer you must write what the Lord lays upon your heart. Not what others say you can write or not write. Many times the things we share hurt. God's Word is offensive. Think about that. His Truths are worthy to be upheld and if we are going against His Word we can very well find fault. We just don't want to see that fault as our own, but as the Bible must be inaccurate. Truths are hard to share because your fearful either someone will become offended or someone will just get downright mad. But shouldn't we stay true to ourselves? Shouldn't we be honest and pure in our writing? More importantly in our every day lives? Isn't it that very honesty and truth that connect us with others? I cannot tell you how many times I have heard a friend say to me, "Well, I didn't know that about you". If I hadn't opened up my heart and put aside my fears they would have never known.

Most people will just not speak their mind. They hold everything in and then as matters keep getting heavier and heavier it's then that they explode in anger. Maybe they carry their hurt feelings with them for so long that they become bitter. There are times to be quiet and just listen, but there too are times that we must open up and share. So many times I hear from my readers who say, "I am so glad you shared this. It's nice to know I'm not alone." For a writer, that is a huge blessing. Even if it was just one person touched by what you have penned it was all worth it.

As this new year has entered I want to write with a new freshness. A new passion. I want to be more open and honest. I want to connect with my readers on a new level. The only way to do that is to stay true to the Lord and follow His will. Not my will and surely not those around me. I had just ordered a beautiful new bracelet from a friend. It is a pink leaf. I look as it as a New Year's gift to remind me to turn over a new leaf. As seasons come and change the leaves are ever changing and that is something that as Christians we should be continuing to do with Christ as we walk with Him.

So with that all said, today I want to write about the subject of being yourself and judging. If we are different others look at us as if there is something wrong with us. Lets just be honest. We judge all the time. If someone is different than us it opens a door for us to look at them different. If I can't be myself, than just who am I suppose to be? Friends, if people cannot accept you for who you are, well then, that's okay. Your the one being true to yourself. I love the yoga quote, "Get comfortable with being uncomfortable". We can find comfort in Christ when uncomfortable situations occur. I have to be me. You have to be you. If others are uncomfortable with that, well it's not your problem:) it's theirs.

I must be accountable for my actions. When I spend time with the Lord, it's the job of the Holy Spirit to direct my path. God plans my course of action. What others think of me is not really all that important and oh, how we can get caught up in that. That can be a sad and lonely place just wondering what others are thinking and saying about you.

It isn't for me to try to change others to fit my mold. What is my mold anyway? It's the job of the Holy Spirit to mold us and create in us the person we are to be in the Lord. After all, weren't we ALL created in His image? It's when we begin judging others for being different that we too are judging God. We are more or less saying, "Hey, when you created them you messed up big time!" God doesn't make mistakes and He sure doesn't create junk!

Am I a pink hair, tattoo, gauge wearin' girl? No. I wish I could rock pink hair, but see, that's just not my thing. I have seen some amazing tattoos that have caught my eye that brings me to ask about them. It's then that I get to connect with that person with the tat and they too get to connect with me as they share the story behind it. I have my own quirkiness and my own style. I don't try to be like anyone else. Why should I do that? I think it's lovely when we finally get to that place in life where we are content with who we are in our own skin. It's something we should strive for and a gift we should give to others. It's not for me to change anyone. Just as I wouldn't want anyone to change me. That's the job for the Holy Spirit to convict the heart. As we grow in Him we change to become more like Him and isn't that where we should all hope to be in our walk?

Whether you have pink hair, wear gauges, or have tattoos, there is mighty work to be done! God's work! He is in the business of choosing those who stand out and those with humble hearts. When did being different become a sin? It isn't! Those who walk different than the "norm" doesn't mean we walk any further away from Jesus. I think that couldn't be any further from the truth. I think being yourself and standing in who God created you to be should be applauded. We weren't created to all be just alike. We are all unique and created by the same loving God. I believe it might be those standing in judgement of those who don't fit the "norm" category that should take a serious look at their walk in Christ. Where is the love? Where is accepting ALL in the love of Christ? I think folks who stand out and are comfortable with themselves should be applauded for being themselves and not trying to fit a mold that the Christian world tries to put us in. We always speak of the judgement of the "world", but friends, if we are not careful the judgement of the "church" can be as destructive. Friends, stand out! Be yourself and when you do, use the gifts God has given you to reach those that most will never have the opportunity to reach!

"To be nobody but yourself in a world which is doing its best, night and day, to make you everybody else means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight; and never stop fighting."

E.E. Cummings

"He who trims himself to suit everyone will soon whittle himself away."

Raymond Hull

"It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are."

E.E. Cummings

"I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them."

Psalm 139:14-16

"But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”

1 Samuel 16:7

"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."

Ephesians 2:10

Lord, help me to be the girl You have created me to be. Help me not to judge those who are different from me, but to accept them in love. Your love is the love that brings us all together. Thank You, Lord, for creating me just as you have. Open my heart to all the changes You want to bring and make clear the very things You like just the way they are. Lord, help me to stand out and make a difference just by being me. Amen

THURSDAY'S TREASURE with guest writer PATTY WYSONG

2012-01-12T12:00:00.001-06:00

The Master Decorator

Written By

Patty Wysong

"But now, O Lord, You are our Father, we are the clay, and You our Potter, and all of us are the work of Your hand."

Isaiah 64:8

How is it that some people can take a room, fill it with spare parts, old parts, new parts, odd parts, and all kinds of other things and make it beautiful? I have never been able to understand it. I could take the same parts and pieces, arrange them, and have a...garage sale. It just doesn’t work for me.

I’ve studied Better Homes & Gardens for years, dreamed, schemed, plotted and planned, and my house still looks like a collection of yard sale and auction finds, which it is. What’s the missing link? If I hang a curtain like the masters do in BH&G, it’d look like a sheet hung with strips of rags instead of the cool curtains they end up with. What am I doing wrong?

I just don’t have that magical touch of a decorating master’s hand. Some hands create beauty out of chaos, mine create more chaos out of chaos. How I wish I could create an environment that invited people to enter, relax, visit and unwind, but I struggle with keeping the living room presentable enough so my husband doesn't groan when he walks in the door at night!

But just because I don’t have a decorator’s touch in my home doesn’t mean I’m not touched by the Master Decorator. He’s willing to decorate my soul if I just give Him access to it. Am I willing for Him to dig through the attic of my life, looking for antique treasures I had tucked away and buried? What about those basement corners in my life? Just because I think something is junk and have it hidden in my basement, doesn’t mean He doesn’t want to pull it out, touch it up, and add it to my living room, that ‘public’ part of my life.

God, the Master Decorator, is able to pull all the parts and pieces of my life together, even the seemingly ugly parts, and create a place of comfort, a haven from life’s storms. But I need to give Him access to my hiding places. Am I willing to have Him pull out the ‘uglies’ hidden in my life and create beauty from those? Am I willing to invite people in to see how He has decorated my soul? It means exposure. It means allowing them to see the uglies. But those uglies, once touched by the Master’s hand, are not ugly any more, they’re worked into the whole and they create a picture and a place of His beauty. If I allow Him access and invite Him to decorate my soul.

Please, Lord, be the Master Decorator in my life and soul. I give You the keys to my attic, basement, closets, shed, and garage--every hiding place in my life. Take these parts, even the ugly ones, and touch them and arrange them to create a place of beauty in me--a place of refreshment and peace. Be the Master Decorator in me.

Patty Wysong, a home executive with over 20 years of experience, homeschools three of her five children, but don't let that fool you. She spends much of her time working on what God has placed in her hand: her keyboard. From the corner of her living room she writes inspirational fiction, devotionals, blog posts, and teaches online blogging workshops. You'll also find her drinking kool aid from her china cup, preparing for the ladies Bible study she leads, and helping at their church.

Patty learned about blogs and blogging the hard way and now delights in teaching and helping others, sparing them that frustration so they can focus on what God has called them to do. Through her writing, Patty has found the extraordinary God in her ordinary life. You can find her at her blog: www.pattywysong.com/

Patty, what a beautiful post to share with us today. Thank you so much for being a guest writer at the Nest. I hope you come back soon and share with us again. Praise the Lord we are a work in progress. We have a Master Decorator willing to take time to move through all our darkest places, not leaving them empty, but filling them with light. Blessings to you, Patty. Friends, I hope you check out, Patty's wonderful blog and take time so share with her just how she has blessed you today.

Two cups of coffee, please

2012-01-09T11:23:00.001-06:00

We have all heard of "Fit A Flat". Maybe you have even used it yourself. Usually it works for a while, just until you can replace your tire. It's not meant to hold it forever. Although it covers up that hole that is now present in your tire, you know the repair goes much deeper than just the surface.

I want to share a quote from, Lyn Smith, that I read this morning in my, "LeadHer Challenge Devotional".

"One of the best feelings in the world is when someone stands by you unwaveringly. Some things in life are just plain hard, but nothing is sweeter than a friend who doesn't let you do hard things alone. It takes courage, strength, and selflessness to come alongside someone in their difficulty. A friend like that doesn't preach, criticize, or correct during those times; they simply SHOW UP AND LOVE." Lyn Smith

How many times have we looked at a friend and thought, "Oh she needs fixed. I can help her do that"? Girls, I have been there more times than I can count. I too have had those friends who thought I needed, "Fixed". But what we must realize is the fact that, that is NOT our job to fix our friend. Our job is to be there for them. To encourage through love and be that shoulder they need. We need to place our friend at the feet of Jesus and ask Him to move in their life. To show Himself clear and precise so they know the road they are traveling is paved with the love of Christ and guidance that only He can provide.

Too many times we offer advice on a circumstance. Advice we have no idea about, because we have not walked that path. This was so evident in my life when my relationship with my daughters was out of control. I was at a loss as what to do and instead of waiting on the Lord I turned to friends. Friends who loved me yes, but friends who gave advice that had never once walked that road. My mistake wasn't calling on my friends, but simply not waiting on the Lord. In doing so, I feel I made terrible mistakes and walked in a path not yet traveled by my friends and now I was alone and helpless and waiting on the Lord as I should have done in the first place.

We must be careful in how we handle situations with our friends. We are to love them where they are. It's not our job to fix them in the way we think they should be. They don't have to be our twin, but our friend. Simple as that. In Proverbs 17:17 it says, "A friend loves at ALL times, and a brother is born for adversity." Proverbs 17:17

Now, I am sure that there are going to be times when our friendships are in need of repair. Friends, we can't just use "Fix A Flat", to bandage it up. We must go deeper below the surface. Friendships are too rare and too valuable to lose just because of a misunderstanding or a difference in opinion. Isn't that what makes us unique?

A friend's job is to simply love. Not judge, not correct and not treat the other as if they know all the answers to their difficulties. A brother is born for those times when adversity arrives. They are there for the hard times. A friend is there ALWAYS. Not just during the good years, not just during the times of struggle, but ALWAYS and with a smile of encouragement.

Ruth just may have been the friend of friends! That friend we all want standing at our side. Look at Ruth 1:16 with me. "But Ruth said, "Behold, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and her gods; return after your sister-in-law." But Ruth said, "Do not urge me to leave you or turn back from following you; for where you go, I will go, and where you lodge, I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God." Ruth 1:16

Ruth wasn't trying to "Fix" Naomi. She was just simply standing side by side with her. She was selflessly loving her as Jesus loves. We must be willing to love as Jesus loves. We must remember to be the friend we would want. We cannot expect from others what we ourselves are not willing to give.

Think about it. Have you asked a friend to lunch over and over again only to hear, "I am just so busy right now, maybe we can get together later on when things slow down"? Life is always busy. We are busy with what we want to busy with. We "hang out" with who we want to "hang out" with and we give time to those we want to spend time with. It's really not that hard to spend time with your girlfriends. I think we just enjoy saying how busy we are. We are filled with excuses until the time comes that we need a favor or when we are in a pinch. Ladies, that is NOT what a friend is. A friend doesn't just pop in and out of our lives when it's convenient for them. A friend is there ALWAYS and for the long haul.

I know when my husband was laid off for nearly three years I had friends just scatter. I am not sure if they were afraid I would ask them for something or if they were too afraid it was catching. Circumstance is not catching. What I needed were friends to encourage me each day. Friends that would make me giggle and take my mind off things. Friends who would take the time to pray with me. Have you felt lonely during a hard time in your life? I now try to make sure I reach out to my friends who are hurting. I never want to make a friend feel like I did. It was a lonely place I never want to enter into again. Just as when life with my daughters was tough. I didn't need advice, even if I was asking. I needed friends to say, "Girl, I am here for you. Lets pray and seek the Lord's wisdom." I just needed friends to listen as I cried and friends who would NOT judge, but love me through it.

"A friend loves at ALL times, and a brother is born for adversity."

Proverbs 17:17

Sometimes all we need is to giggle with one another. To share a cup of coffee and catch up. Friendship is being able to be yourself and feel comfortable in your own skin even when your friend is the total opposite of you. It's loving even when you don't see, "Eye to eye", and it's stepping in when needed and knowing when to take a step back and give that friend the room she needs.

We are to stand in the gap. Meaning we aren't to gab about what our friend shares, but keep what we share between us and always be in prayer for those friends of the present and the past. Friends come into our lives to make an imprint in our lives. God allows friendships into our lives for a purpose. Each one is unique and special in its own right. We should never take our friendships for granted, but enjoy them and treat them with the love that is needed for those friendships to grow and blossom. Friendships are an extension of the love of Christ. A love that is to be captured and treasured.

THE KEEPER by SUZANNE WOODS FISHER (Book 1 of Stoney Ridge Seasons)

2012-01-08T10:07:00.000-06:00

When you pick up a novel from Suzanne Woods Fisher you know you are going to be taken to a place that is going to leave an impact on you. A place where you will meet new friends and think of them as family. She has a gift of opening up your heart and allowing the words penned before you to touch you with each page.

We go to Stoney Ridge and meet up with the Lapp family and their friends. Each character is vibrant and in this novel, they all carry great burdens. I love seeing them come to a place where honesty kicks in and they are able to breathe in joy once again. I fell in love with Julia Lapp and the character that I really enjoyed was the Bee man, Roman Troyer. Now, you all will find a farm in need of repair. I love how Suzanne writes! The lady knows how to connect the reader to the story! You too will find folks in need of some repair and that is where you see faith and growth come in and touch these characters. In fact, aren't we all in need of some repairing? Only one Carpenter that can do the repairs we need! Oh, and the Bee man, Roman, also another great analogy of how we too can spread the love and seed of faith to all we meet!

As you meet these characters you can be very quick to make assumptions about them. Maybe that is a great lesson this book carried for me. Don't be so quick to do so because we all come with a story. We call carry parts of the past with us. It has a way of making us who we are. In order for these characters to really find themselves and a joy they never knew before they must realize that trusting God is the only way to live and letting go of fear is part of seeing your faith grow.

I loved these characters and there are valuable lessons to be carried away from this novel. We learn of loss and moving on with a heart filled with memories and love. What really grabs me is the way forgiveness is portrayed in this novel. Oh, how I want to have a heart that is so forgiving. We see that forgiveness is a release and also carries with it much hope for the future. I am excited to see how the story continues with book 2.

This book was a gift from Revell for it's review.

Revell is having a few contests you can partake in today. Check out these links to the contest and face book party! Don't miss out!!

http://promoshq.wildfireapp.com/website/6/contests/183799 This contest is running through to Jan. 17

http://www.facebook.com/events/209723589116292 The facebook party will take place on Jan. 17

Suzanne Woods Fisher is the bestselling author of The Choice, The Waiting, The Search, and The Keeper, as well as nonfiction books about the Amish, including Amish Peace. Her interest in the Anabaptist cultures can be directly traced to her grandfather, W. D. Benedict, who was raised in the Old Order German Baptist Brethren Church in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. Suzanne is a Christy Award nominee and is the host of an Internet radio show called Amish Wisdom and her work has appeared in many magazines. She lives in California.

Find Suzanne on facebook

Catch her writing at her blog

If you tweet, you too can find Suzanne at Twitter

MOMENTS OF TRUTH (Unleashing God's Word One Day at a Time) by JOHN MacARTHUR

2012-01-08T09:23:00.000-06:00

If you enjoy using a devotional you will love this devotional written by John MacArthur. It's like having mini sermon bless you with each reading. These are messages from all of his works. Moments of Truth in a nut shell is powerful, poignant, and jam packed with the Word.

Each month has it's own theme. In January you begin with the theme, "Beginnings". You will find, Parenting, Marriage, Work, Money, Growing as a Christian and this power packed devotional ends with, "Jesus' Birth and Life".

Each page begins with scripture and ends with a question of value to ponder and pray over. Sort of a reflection on the mini sermon and how it touches you and challenges you to growth.

I have many devotionals and this one is sure to be a keeper. It can be a powerful tool in teaching and just a devotional you could spend five minutes with in the morning or a few hours in the evening. You can't go wrong with John MacArthur.

This book was a gift from Thomas Nelson for it's review.

Is it time to grab a bite? I know just the perfect place!

2012-01-07T13:45:00.005-06:00

Well, my body is quickly showing me that three meals a day just won't do it for me. Most of the time I don't do three a day. Most days I'm good with maybe one meal and a few snacks to hold me over. That might be where the problem is occurring. But we are all different. Some love that big breakfast to start the day and a small meal for dinner. Whatever is good for you!

As I have been having problems with my health and having testing done to get down to the problem, I am learning that if I eat small meals throughout the day I feel much better. Now, I'm not talking about eating junk as I pass by in the kitchen. Although that is tempting. I am speaking of filling my appetite with good nutritious foods that will give me energy and boost my brain function. LOL If I am not eating properly my body is not going to function well at all. I am most likely going to be hunting then for something to eat as my body begins to shake and my head starts to pound. That is where the junk comes in view. It's easy to grab, isn't it? Sure, it might hit the spot for that moment, but later I am only going to be feeling worse as that blast of sugar hits me and down I go.

Life in the Word is the same. We need the Good Word all throughout the day. Little spurts of His goodness to fill us and give us the power we need to make it through the day. It's when I have His reminder all throughout the day where I begin to re-charge full blast ahead.

If I fill up on junk I am going to crash at the end of the day only to wish I had started my day out right. God's Word is a meal that will hold you over and keep you fueled until the next. It's a start to your day and a pick me up throughout and as the day ends it's time to re-charge for tomorrow. It can be a slow, sit down restaurant with candle light as He shares His love story with you or it can be like a fast food pit stop, but with healthy choices and just the right portions.

However you want to do it, God is all for spending time with you. He is all for making the date and setting the time and place. All we have to do is show up! He will meet you right where you are, my friend. He is good with those long dinners where the conversation keeps moving. He too loves those little times during the day where you reach for a snack to hold you over. He wants to keep you full in His Word. He too wants you to return over and over again. He wants it to be your favorite stop for fuel for the day and the place you tell everyone to go to because you just love it so.

"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."

2 Timothy 3:16

Content in all the chaos

2012-01-06T12:47:00.002-06:00

This week I have found myself at home alone as my son and husband both traveled. I can tell you part of me was looking forward to a little quiet time alone. I would have time to write and catch up on all of my reading. I could also catch up on some of my chores and just enjoy the silence.

Well friends, this is not how my week went. I found myself lonely and missing the noise. Sure, I found time to read and the Lord filled me with wonderful ideas for writing. He too sustained me in ALL. The Lord can fill the quiet with His mighty greatness. He has a way of showing Himself in the quiet or through all the noise. He can reach us anywhere.

I was able to do the chores that had been waiting my attention, but my real joy came early this morning when both of the men in my life returned home. It was so sweet to hear the sound of my husband's truck to pull into the drive way and to receive a hug from my son as he entered the door. I have a whole laundry room filled with clothes! I have a son snoring on the sofa with Daisy wrapped around him. Our home is buzzing again and this girl couldn't be happier!

I have boots all stacked up by the front door and dirt on the floor once again! The television is just a little louder and music is flowing LOUD from Jake's room. I can tell you, I will not tell him to turn it down this week!

I often wish I could have a few moments of quiet. Yes, that quiet is nice. We all need a few moments to our self, but there is nothing like the sound of your family around you. Too often I find myself taking that noise for granted. The world tells us how much we need our "Me Time", but "Family Time" is where I too find myself. I see the Lord in the sweet smiles of my family. I hear His wonder in the laughter of my family.

The Lord reminded me today not to complain when the work load is heavy and the chores are piling up over my head. I just need to take a breath and remember that those very chores and noise that fill our home are here because I am surrounded by family. Family that is worth my time. Family that fills my heart with joy.

Family is like the beauty of a flower that catches your eye, but the sweet nectar is what takes your breath away. Too often we just pass over the flowers and keep on walking, not paying attention to the beauty in the small things of life. We are too busy to stop and breathe in all that is around us. All we need to do is slow down and enjoy each and every moment in our life. That includes the laundry that awaits us and the mud on the floor that your son tracked through on his way to feed the dog.

Take your time today and enjoy ALL that touches your life. All the sights and sounds no matter how quiet or loud, allow the Lord to remind you just how sweet life really is.

"Each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children."

Charles Swindoll

"Thou who hast given so much to me, give me one more thing - a grateful heart!"

George Herbert

"A grateful heart is one that finds the countless blessings of God in the seemingly mundane everyday life."

Anonymous

THURSDAY'S TREASURE with guest writer DIANE YUHAS

2012-01-05T05:30:00.001-06:00

"Surviving The Cold, Lonely Place"

Written by

Diane Yuhas

I love reading stories about the early pioneer days, tales about women who, with their husbands and children, left the relative comfort of the east to be swallowed up in a vast, unknown Westward Ho! How heartbreaking to leave your parents and friends behind, knowing you will likely never see them again on earth. And for what, but to face backbreaking hardship, adversity, and eventual death at the hands of a world not yet conquered.

These women endured almost unimaginable difficulties, overcoming mammoth obstacles, and surviving life without a safety net. They pressed on through illness, injury, raids, lawlessness, bear and buffalo, riding rough to reach and conquer the mid and western lands. Here they laid foundations of rock on which to build homes and raise families. Here they worked the ground to lay seed and roots. Because supplies were expensive and difficult to come by, they had to learn to use whatever was available, namely the flora and fauna of the land. Practically everything they owned was made from the wood and stone around them. It must have been so difficult for those who weren’t very handy or creative. They simply had to improvise or do without.

It was the same for their friendships.

In those early days, people were few and far between, scattered throughout a harsh, untamed land. There were no near neighbors. In fact, they routinely went for months at a time without seeing a single soul beyond their own household. Girlfriends were mostly memories back east. There were no telephones, and mail was rare. Church consisted of your own family seated around the hearth. Certainly there was no social media or hanging out at Starbucks.

Can you imagine living in such isolation? No friends nearby. No morning calls to your mother. No girlfriends with whom to share moments of joy or sorrow, except on the rarest occasion. How lonely! I have read that the hardest thing they had to endure in those days was not the roughness of the land, but its devastating loneliness.

I can’t imagine how anyone could have endured this kind of life without Christ.

To survive and thrive, our believing pioneers had to dig deep into the solid rock of Christ.

“They [had to be] like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built”

(Luke 6:48).

It is the same for us.

Sometimes all that comforts us is gone and we are left to endure or perish. Sometimes our friends or husbands leave us. Sometimes we leave them. Sometimes God leads us into the wilderness, just as he led Jesus there.

“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness ...”

(Matthew 4:1)

The pain is excruciating, the loneliness unbearable. What happens to our hearts when we find ourselves in that cold and bitter place where friends are few and help is far, far away?

When there is no one left to rely upon but God, will you wait on Him?

Consider the kind of seeds you’re planting right now in the soil of your heart. Choose seeds of faith and not despair. Remember the word of the Lord that endures forever:

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

(Romans 8:28)

This is not a cliche´. It’s a promise. When you find yourself in a lonely wilderness, look to God. Give him your bruised and broken heart. Let him bring you through the wilderness. Immerse yourself in scripture. Lay the foundation of your future in his word and promises. God’s promises are for you.

"Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”

(Luke 1:45).

Throughout this wilderness:

“I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God”

(Ephesians 3:16-19).

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen”

(Ephesians 3:20).

Find Diane Yuhas at her blog by clicking on to this link: http://dianeyuhas.com

Diane, thank you sweet lady. This is a beautiful post that touched my heart greatly. You have such a gift to touch the reader and bring glory to God. Oh, how I have walked through the desert and felt lonely, but praise the Lord, He restored my soul. He brought me out of the isolation and surrounded me with people who love me and most of all I found complete comfort in Him. Sweet blessings to you, Diane. You have an open invitation to come back any time.

Friends, if you have been touched by Diane's words feel free to leave her a message here. It is a wonderful gift to share!

The Love Of Christ Goes Far Beyond Anything We Can Do

2012-01-04T11:43:00.001-06:00

In Luke 13:10-17 we find the story of the crippled woman. I find the recounting of this woman's healing amazing. For eighteen years this woman has been crippled. She has been doubled over (vs. 11) and has not been able to stand straight for eighteen years. That is a long time, isn't it? I think about the few days I may suffer with the flu or have a cluster migraine that is long lasting for months on end, but eighteen years? Many face trials all their entire life.

It tells us that Jesus was teaching in the synagogue. What it does not tell us is if this was a woman of faith who was within the hearing of His teaching or if she was a woman without faith. What is really interesting to me is the fact that He doesn't call her to faith before He brings healing. There is no mention of her coming to Faith before. It only shares that she glorified God after (vs. 13) Jesus has healed her. Another reminder that, "JESUS MEETS US WHERE WE ARE!" Jesus is alive and well in our lives whether we want to recognize His presence or not. He is still God whether we make the choice to believe or not. But He is willing to do the calling. The inviting. He is forever trying to get our attention. It is purest of love. The sweetest of all romance. He wants to have an intimate relationship with us.

We do not know her name. We do not know if she walked for those eighteen years in faith believing Jesus would bring healing or if she lived those painful eighteen years in anger over her condition. So, lets look at this as if there are two seperate women. One living in faith. Believing that Her Savior would bring healing through her faith in Him and the other, a woman without faith, living in pain and despair. Isn't this our choice? Each day we have a choice to live out our life, the life God has given us, in joy no matter what the situation or in anger over all that goes wrong in our life.

We often think that God is in our life when everything is going wonderful, but when bad things are happening we often feel as if He has left us and is absent from our life. This is just simply not true. He is present. He never leaves us. Just as in this woman's situation. Glory was brought to Him through her eighteen years of living in pain. Healing came through a Savior not expecting something from the woman, but only wanting to give. Only wanting to bless her. In that deep blessing God was made manifest in this great healing. It had nothing to do with the woman, but everything to do with Jesus.

Something else that catches my eye is the fact that she didn't seek Christ out. He sought her out. He knew exactly where she was and called out to her. He too knows exactly where we are today. He knows what we have been living with for years and what we too will face tomorrow.

It tells us that Satan had bound this woman for these eighteen years. She was held prisoner in her own body. So was her physical ailment caused by the sin in her life? It doesn't say. It doesn't say that because of the way she lived she was being punished. How many times do we feel that way when something happens in our life? We ask ourselves, "What did I do to deserve this? Why is this happening to me?" Maybe we should be asking instead, "Lord, what is it You are trying to show me through this trial?" Maybe even ask, "Why not me?" If God has allowed it to happen then there is great purpose in all that touches our lives. It isn't always that we have done something to cause our pain. Sometimes by allowing certain situations to touch our lives it is the only way God can get our attention or the attention of others. Just like this woman. Can you imagine what happens next? It doesn't tell us. But only says that glory was brought to God. Did she, now in her straight position, go out and tell everyone? Just by looking at her others would be able to see her healing. She would then be able to say, "It was ALL Jesus. I had NOTHING to do with it."

What I love is the fact that in her own torment she was bent over always looking down. Does that mean she only saw her situation? Does it mean she was downcast? All she could see was only what her eyes could vaguely view. But straight and erect, she is now able to see from a whole new view. She is able to see the very things she had been missing because of her lack of vision.

I too can be in this way. I can carry so many burdens that I am bent over from the load. Soon all I see is what is weighing me down. But once I realize I don't have to carry the load, I can lay it at the cross and then and only then when I release it all to Jesus can I truly see all He has for me.

What can I take away from this lesson? I cannot always control what touches my life. Sometimes illness comes, tragedy strikes, situations occur, but I don't have to focus on those things. I need to remain focused on my Savior and see the opportunity before me to allow Him to shine through my life. No matter if it is eighteen minutes, eighteen days, eighteen hours, or eighteen years. God is in control. He leaves nothing to chance. I am in His hands and there is no greater place to be.

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Jeremiah 29:11

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

James 1:2-4

"Jesus looked at him and loved him."

Mark 10:21a

Put Your Watch Away

2012-01-03T09:06:00.000-06:00

I remember as a kid my friend's mother would tell me, "A watch pot never boils." We have those moments we are anticipating time spent with another. We are excited for their arrival. The amazing thing is the fact that once there with them we are not looking at our watch to see how much time we have left. We are too busy enjoying the time we are spending with them. It's when we do finally look at our watch we see that even though we were to be home by 4:00 it is now 5:50 and time has flown by without us even realizing. Why? The only focus we have is that friend sitting across from us. We are having a blessed time laughing and just enjoying the time spent.

This is how our Savior sees His time spent with us. He is in anticipation of our arrival and He wants to spend every minute with us. He is always on time and He is that friend who looks forward to listening to everything we want to share. He even knows us so well, He knows too what we are not sharing. His wisdom and guidance out ways any other. He takes us by the hand and says, "Come, sit with Me for a while and don't worry about the time."

We too should be in anticipation of our time spent with Him. We shouldn't be worrying about our next appointment or who is coming over tomorrow or how the house looks. He just wants to come and visit our heart.

Friends, put your watch away today. Don't look at the time. Just enjoy your time with Him. Anticipate all the joy and love He is about to share with you. Open your heart up to His guidance and council. Allow Him the time He so deserves and make it as though He is the only One is the room!

"I have not departed from the commandment of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food."

Job 23:12

"As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God."

Psalm 42:1

"Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You."

Psalm 119:11

Sleeping in peace

2012-01-02T08:52:00.001-06:00

I love the sounds of the night. Every once in a while I can hear the owls calling in the night. The stars shining brightly just magnify God's beauty. I am one of those girls who enjoys staying up late reading and writing. It is in the quietness of the night that I seem to sit back and ponder over the day.

I too love watching television late at night. I enjoy old movies. Especially the old black and whites. Every once in a while you can find a great movie on that keeps you up just anticipating the ending. I noticed something happening in my daily life. The television began to take over at night. I would keep it on for hours and set the timer falling to sleep with the dim light and soft sounds as I turn it down low. It was funny really. I couldn't go to sleep at night without the television on. But I noticed what I was falling to sleep with wasn't what my mind needed for great sleep. Sound and peaceful sleep.

A few nights ago we removed the television out of our bedroom. Best way to begin the new year! I have decided to set a time for me to go to sleep and do you know what? I enjoyed the best sleep I have had in years. Really! I crawled into bed and instead of watching television and falling to sleep, I curled up and talked to my Savior. Once I did, I realized I hadn't been sharing time with Him like I use to. I was once again growing in a habit that was taking my time away from Him. Oh, for the last few nights I have enjoyed my time spent with Him. It is in Him that I have been falling asleep. I can be honest and tell you it has been a while since I have fallen asleep in prayer, but the last few nights that is exactly what I have done.

As I lay all curled up and cozy I can hear Him loud and clear. I talk for a while and I listen for His voice in my ear. Just sweet conversation about the day and life. I can give Him all my worries. Sharing those things I don't quite understand. I can spend time recalling my day and how I have spent my time. When I make time for Christ, He makes time for me. What better way to fall asleep? I can completely lay everything before my Savior and trust Him with all that burdens my heart. Until we are in total quietness and the stillness of night I don't think we realize just how much we are carrying in our heart. It feels so wonderful to close my eyes and just bask in His glory. To feel Him wash His forgiveness, grace and mercy over me. It is a time to be cherished and a time that I need to make sure I don't miss out on again.

This gives new meaning to peaceful sleeping. Just sharing time with Him in prayer quiets my heart. It fills me with a security of safety and love. I remember being at home and the last thing I would do before I closed my eyes was tell my mom and dad goodnight and say, "I love you". The same was true for us in our home. Before our kids took off to close their sleepy eyes there was always a hug and a kiss and a, "I love you", was said. Does our Savior not yearn to hear those very words from us, His children? At the end of the day, does He not want to hear about our day and all of our thoughts? He wants to spend time with us.

There have been so many nights I have tossed and turned in anticipation of the next day or the worries that have filled my day. Sleep then does not come easily to the girl who stays up worrying and wondering about what to do. Why not turn off that television that fills the silence? Put that book away early and turn off the light a little extra earlier than usual? For me, those few extra minutes or hours turned in to a sweet time spent with my Savior. It wasn't the television that quieted my heart, it was His presence. I didn't need to hear the conversations of others as I closed my eyes. All I need is to hear His sweet words that fill my heart and set peace before me.

"Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Philippians 4:5-7