I don't know everyone who reads my blog. I pretty much know the people who are subscribed to my blog.
The point is, it's Christmas! And in our culture it is acceptable to give a gift to the people you are in contact with. While I can't possibly "give" all of you something tangible, I would like to offer you this.
Got iTunes? Listen to podcasts? I have recently subscribed to two podcasts and I'm so thrilled about them! So my gift to you is the advice to subscribe to these FREE (don't you love that word?) podcasts.
1. Air1-Brant Hansen.
The radio station that can be found here, has a WONDERFUL guy on their afternoon show. Brant Hansen has an amazing testimony. He's hilarious. He's thought provoking. He has Aspergers. His podcast is the talking parts of his radio show and you will absolutely love it!!! What a guy.
2. In The Loop with Andy Andrews.
Andy Andrews is a wonderful author who writes about ways to get through this life with positivity and hope. I guess technically he's an inspirational speaker. But not in your "prosperity" sort of way. To me, he's an encourager. This podcast, In The Loop, is so enlightening, encouraging, entertaining, etc. There are even opportunities through Andy's facebook page and twitter to ask him questions that might just be answered on the podcast! The host, Andy Traub, is engaging.
So, my gift to you this season is the gift of encouragement through the words and entertainment of Godly men who are using their gifts and talents for the glory of God.
I hope you enjoy these as much as I have!
Now, for a little bit of fun, I leave you with this:
Thoughts and meanderings of a wife, mom and follower of Christ.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Lessons learned
You know those days when you would swear your children are not paying attention and you KNOW that nothing is being retained as you talk to them?
I knew you would.
As a parent, things happen that you don't always want to share...whether it be a mistake you make or a big whopper your kid gets into, sometimes you just want those less appealing moments of parenthood to go away.
Well, I had one a few weeks age but I am going to share because the end result is...well...wonderful!
A few weeks ago, I was taking Ty and Noah somewhere in the van and all of a sudden from the back seat I hear the dreaded words that most parents cringe and dread. "MOM! Noah just stuck up his middle finger at me!"
Okay. So, first, Ty didn't even know what that meant but knew it wasn't nice.
Second, Noah has no clue what it means either.
Third, one more reason sending your kids to school sucks!
Sorry. I digress.
"What?!?! Noah I can't believe you did that! Why in the world would you do that? You are grounded! Spankings all around."
Is what I wanted to say.
"Noah. That isn't nice at all. I don't ever want to see that again." Is how I really responded.
But his response very nonchalant "k."
So I said, "I don't think you understand. This is a better-ask-Jesus-to-forgive-me-now kind of bad. So you probably need to pray right now and ask Him to forgive you." And immediately the tears roll.
Flash forward to this past week. You see, when Donny was younger he cut the tip of his index finger off and when the weather starts to get dryer and cooler, it chaps and cracks. In the van the other day, Donny was messing with the touch screen in the van and used his middle finger to tap on the screen. He said that Noah told him he's not supposed to use that finger and "you'd better not let mom catch you using that finger."
Lesson learned.
Amen.
I knew you would.
As a parent, things happen that you don't always want to share...whether it be a mistake you make or a big whopper your kid gets into, sometimes you just want those less appealing moments of parenthood to go away.
Well, I had one a few weeks age but I am going to share because the end result is...well...wonderful!
A few weeks ago, I was taking Ty and Noah somewhere in the van and all of a sudden from the back seat I hear the dreaded words that most parents cringe and dread. "MOM! Noah just stuck up his middle finger at me!"
Okay. So, first, Ty didn't even know what that meant but knew it wasn't nice.
Second, Noah has no clue what it means either.
Third, one more reason sending your kids to school sucks!
Sorry. I digress.
"What?!?! Noah I can't believe you did that! Why in the world would you do that? You are grounded! Spankings all around."
Is what I wanted to say.
"Noah. That isn't nice at all. I don't ever want to see that again." Is how I really responded.
But his response very nonchalant "k."
So I said, "I don't think you understand. This is a better-ask-Jesus-to-forgive-me-now kind of bad. So you probably need to pray right now and ask Him to forgive you." And immediately the tears roll.
Flash forward to this past week. You see, when Donny was younger he cut the tip of his index finger off and when the weather starts to get dryer and cooler, it chaps and cracks. In the van the other day, Donny was messing with the touch screen in the van and used his middle finger to tap on the screen. He said that Noah told him he's not supposed to use that finger and "you'd better not let mom catch you using that finger."
Lesson learned.
Amen.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Tuesday Morning Thoughts and Ramblings
I have blogged about this topic before but it seems to come around often and rather than brush it under the rug or check it off of the proverbial "to-do" list, I am going to hit it head on.
Again.
Has common sense left our minds? Is character something we are no longer concerned with?
When did it become okay to act like a fool in public? Or, in today's world, social networking?
As a kid I remember my parents expecting me to be on my best behavior at all times but especially when we walked out of our front door and into the community. Poor behavior and choices were not tolerated. Oh, that word. Don't even get me started on tolerance. My Dad read a quote before (I have no idea where it came from), "A man of tolerance is a man without convictions." But, I digress, that is an entirely different subject altogether.
Back to the point! I am not perfect and neither are my kids. Do they always behave the way I would like them to? Absolutely not. But I love them enough to tell them when they are out of line and then direct them in the right way. And as a youth pastor, I feel a certain responsibility to my students to do the same.
So that's what this is about.
Social Networking is not a tool for us to use to bash or tear down others or ourselves. If anything, for those of us who profess Jesus as Lord, it is another tool to be His hands extended! It's another way for us to get The Word out!
So many people I know who say they are followers of Christ go on Facebook or Twitter and fill their pages with garbage. In this case, the saying of "Garbage In-Garbage Out" is visible. What we fill our lives with, comes out in one way or another.
You may say you love God and you follow Him but your actions and words must back that up. And let's face it, so many times, that is not the case.
Matthew 7:16-20 says, "You will recognize them(A) by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17So,(B) every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. 18A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. 19(C) Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20Thus you will recognize them(D) by their fruits." (from biblegateway.com, ESV)
We cannot expect to impact the world around us for Jesus if our words are hurtful, angry, bitter, filled with jealousy or malice. And this is most relevant when looking at how we behave online.
People will know us by the fruit we bear.
What kind of fruit are you bearing? A nice, juicy Honeycrisp apple or a bitter Crab apple? Are you sweet grapes from the vine or a stickerburr from the thistle? Do you bring life and hope or death and despair?
Does everything thing we say need to be a scripture verse? No. But shouldn't those around us know that we are different because we refuse to gossip and belittle those around us? Absolutely! Shouldn't our words and conversation be seasoned with salt in order to preserve life? Of course!
Is the fruit you are bearing from the tree of life or a rotten tree that will be torn down and cast in to the fire?
Proverbs 11:30 English Standard Version (ESV) 30The fruit of the righteous is(A) a tree of life, and whoever(B) captures souls is wise.
I want to capture souls.
God, may the words of my mouth, or my fingertips on a keyboard, be words of life. Let me be a light for You at all times. Regardless of my circumstances, I want to always be a beacon of hope pointing and leading straight to You.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
It may be a crazy life. But it's my life.
Hi. How are you?
I haven't blogged in a while.
I like to blog. I WANT to blog. I just don't always know WHAT to blog.
Ever had one of those days where you realized you haven't had the chance to talk to a friend, your mom, your sister or whoever in days? And so you call and end up talking about nothing in particular? Yeah, that's sort of how this feels. So, in the same way that I would call up my friend, I will share with you.
Cause, we are friends...right? Um, right? Whew!
Life has been crazy the past month! Church, family, church, family, church...this has been my revolving door. I love it, don't get me wrong. I wouldn't trade it for anything. I am just learning to balance the new way of church in my life.
All of my life I have attended church. And all of my adult life I have worked AND attended church. But being in a ministry position adds a whole new dynamic to the equation and balance is vital.
Kids...oh kids...I am convinced I now understand why animals eat their young. Oh, I know some of you are thinking that I am horrible...and you may be right but you can not deny that you have thought something similar! I love them. I wouldn't really eat them...that's just nasty. I wouldn't even trade the little punks! I just have some questions.
Why can't my boys just pick up their room? Why can't they just focus for 5 minutes on reading a
book? Why can't they walk and not run? Why can't they understand that there is a time for an outside voice and in the car, church or during dinner time isn't one of them?
Toddlers...what a work out! Into everything. Climbing on everything. Learning something new every 5 minutes! Exciting and exhausting all at the same time.
Never a dull moment in a house with 3 boys. Two of whom are red heads.
Teenagers. Oh how I love teenagers. Now is the time you can say I am insane or crazy but I do much better with teenagers than, I think, any other age! It is my spiritual gift. Loving the unlovable.
I read a quote earlier today from Rick Warren.
School. Although my school is not what many would consider traditional, it is still school. ISOM, is wonderful! Godly instructors, leadership and an environment that is so perfect for anyone at any level. I am eager to continue to learn how to better my ministry.
One thing that has been made so much more real to me in the past month is this: Jesus' return is nearer today than it has ever been and if we plan to make an impact on this world, it must start today. It must start right now. We can't afford to wait! What kind of a person am I if I know the answer to life, and keep it to myself?
I've blogged before about the power of music in my life. So, to close this long, breathy blog out, I will share a couple of songs that are so powerful in my life.
Enjoy!!
I haven't blogged in a while.
I like to blog. I WANT to blog. I just don't always know WHAT to blog.
Ever had one of those days where you realized you haven't had the chance to talk to a friend, your mom, your sister or whoever in days? And so you call and end up talking about nothing in particular? Yeah, that's sort of how this feels. So, in the same way that I would call up my friend, I will share with you.
Cause, we are friends...right? Um, right? Whew!
Life has been crazy the past month! Church, family, church, family, church...this has been my revolving door. I love it, don't get me wrong. I wouldn't trade it for anything. I am just learning to balance the new way of church in my life.
All of my life I have attended church. And all of my adult life I have worked AND attended church. But being in a ministry position adds a whole new dynamic to the equation and balance is vital.
Kids...oh kids...I am convinced I now understand why animals eat their young. Oh, I know some of you are thinking that I am horrible...and you may be right but you can not deny that you have thought something similar! I love them. I wouldn't really eat them...that's just nasty. I wouldn't even trade the little punks! I just have some questions.
Why can't my boys just pick up their room? Why can't they just focus for 5 minutes on reading a
book? Why can't they walk and not run? Why can't they understand that there is a time for an outside voice and in the car, church or during dinner time isn't one of them?
Toddlers...what a work out! Into everything. Climbing on everything. Learning something new every 5 minutes! Exciting and exhausting all at the same time.
Never a dull moment in a house with 3 boys. Two of whom are red heads.
Teenagers. Oh how I love teenagers. Now is the time you can say I am insane or crazy but I do much better with teenagers than, I think, any other age! It is my spiritual gift. Loving the unlovable.
I read a quote earlier today from Rick Warren.
"Our society cannot teach our youth they're merely animals then be shocked when they act like it."Wow! There is power there and it just might preach!
School. Although my school is not what many would consider traditional, it is still school. ISOM, is wonderful! Godly instructors, leadership and an environment that is so perfect for anyone at any level. I am eager to continue to learn how to better my ministry.
One thing that has been made so much more real to me in the past month is this: Jesus' return is nearer today than it has ever been and if we plan to make an impact on this world, it must start today. It must start right now. We can't afford to wait! What kind of a person am I if I know the answer to life, and keep it to myself?
I've blogged before about the power of music in my life. So, to close this long, breathy blog out, I will share a couple of songs that are so powerful in my life.
Enjoy!!
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
By Faith
As a believer (a Christian, follower of Christ, born-again, a person of The Way) faith is something that is always at the front of my mind.
My relationship with my Heavenly Father and His son, Jesus, are nothing without faith.
My faith is what I rely on in my daily life to get me from waking to sleeping and awake again the next morning.
In this world we live in, it is easy for our faith to be shaken on a daily basis. Wars, tragedy, natural disasters are all occurring more and more it seems. Sometimes it's hard to look at the world around us and believe this is all part of the plan.
One thing I know is this, my God never changes. I can rest on that promise. The God who created the universe is the same God who holds my hand today. I am reminded of the hymn, "I don't know about tomorrow I just live from day to day. I don't borrow from it's sunshine for it's skies may turn to gray. I don't worry o'er the future for I know what Jesus said. And today I'll walk beside Him for He knows what is ahead."
What an amazing thought! What power in those words! And if we believe, by faith, what we are singing, then there are no limits!
Faith is actually a verb. Did you know that? Faith is active trust. Complete devotion.
The key here is active.
We know that we are saved by faith, through the blood of Jesus. There is nothing we can do to earn that salvation. It is all on faith. "Not by works." However, we are saved for works. Our faith in action is what shows the world that we are set apart. It's by our actions that we live out our salvation.
Hebrews 11:6 says, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." (italics added for emphasis).
Even here we see that faith requires action by seeking what God's will is and the purpose He has for us.
Go over a few more pages in your Bible to James 2:14-26. That entire section of scripture is all about how important and vital works and deeds are to a life of faith.
If we ever plan to make a difference in this world and impact lives around us and our communities, we must put our faith to work. That's not always an easy thing to do. Many times, most times, it will require us to stretch beyond ourselves. To move past the logical and into the illogical. Sometimes, it even may hurt a bit. But if we press on through the fear and put our full trust in the One who is calling us, there is nothing we can't do and think of the lives that can be changed!
So, call yourselves whatever you wish. Christian, believer, born again...if you aren't actively trusting and completely devoted to God by putting your faith to work, then what's the point?
My relationship with my Heavenly Father and His son, Jesus, are nothing without faith.
My faith is what I rely on in my daily life to get me from waking to sleeping and awake again the next morning.
In this world we live in, it is easy for our faith to be shaken on a daily basis. Wars, tragedy, natural disasters are all occurring more and more it seems. Sometimes it's hard to look at the world around us and believe this is all part of the plan.
One thing I know is this, my God never changes. I can rest on that promise. The God who created the universe is the same God who holds my hand today. I am reminded of the hymn, "I don't know about tomorrow I just live from day to day. I don't borrow from it's sunshine for it's skies may turn to gray. I don't worry o'er the future for I know what Jesus said. And today I'll walk beside Him for He knows what is ahead."
What an amazing thought! What power in those words! And if we believe, by faith, what we are singing, then there are no limits!
Faith is actually a verb. Did you know that? Faith is active trust. Complete devotion.
The key here is active.
We know that we are saved by faith, through the blood of Jesus. There is nothing we can do to earn that salvation. It is all on faith. "Not by works." However, we are saved for works. Our faith in action is what shows the world that we are set apart. It's by our actions that we live out our salvation.
Hebrews 11:6 says, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." (italics added for emphasis).
Even here we see that faith requires action by seeking what God's will is and the purpose He has for us.
Go over a few more pages in your Bible to James 2:14-26. That entire section of scripture is all about how important and vital works and deeds are to a life of faith.
If we ever plan to make a difference in this world and impact lives around us and our communities, we must put our faith to work. That's not always an easy thing to do. Many times, most times, it will require us to stretch beyond ourselves. To move past the logical and into the illogical. Sometimes, it even may hurt a bit. But if we press on through the fear and put our full trust in the One who is calling us, there is nothing we can't do and think of the lives that can be changed!
So, call yourselves whatever you wish. Christian, believer, born again...if you aren't actively trusting and completely devoted to God by putting your faith to work, then what's the point?
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes
Ever dared to dream?
Ever dared to dream BIG?
Have you sought God for a dream and a vision that He would place in your heart? One that you know is from Him and you desire it so greatly that there is no denying it's from Him?
I've been there before. I am right there now. And I am surrounded by people who are daring to dream so big that there is no human possibility of realizing the dreams and yet, doors keep opening and favor is poured out and there is an air of excitement and anticipation for what the next moment holds!
Ephesians 3:20 says, "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,"
If we think our dreams and our thoughts are big and we continue to dream and think about the same things, not only can expect amazing things to happen, but His word says that He is able to much more than we can even imagine!
Hallelujah!
If you are thinking about something that you feel is just too big for you, I challenge you to seek God's heart. That thought you have, may just be from Him. And if it's from Him and you begin taking the steps to follow through on your thoughts, He will blow your mind!
Go ahead. I dare ya!
Sunday, August 21, 2011
It sure has been a while
Hi. How are ya?
I so enjoy the blogging. So why is it so hard to get it done?
School is back.
Noah is playing football.
Ty tried football.
Colby is talking and fun!
I am back in school and working full time.
Donny is doing his best at being the stay-at-home-parent. It's quite the adjustment!
One thing I learned this summer? Just when you think all is lost or hopeless, God asks you to be willing to take drastic steps and measures. Once you do, He steps back in to show His faithfulness over yours! You can't out do Him.
Don't get so caught up in life that you miss the teachable moments. They bring the most growth.
I so enjoy the blogging. So why is it so hard to get it done?
School is back.
Noah is playing football.
Ty tried football.
Colby is talking and fun!
I am back in school and working full time.
Donny is doing his best at being the stay-at-home-parent. It's quite the adjustment!
One thing I learned this summer? Just when you think all is lost or hopeless, God asks you to be willing to take drastic steps and measures. Once you do, He steps back in to show His faithfulness over yours! You can't out do Him.
Don't get so caught up in life that you miss the teachable moments. They bring the most growth.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Broken hearts
Broken hearts come in so many forms.
Love, friendship, spiritually and physically a broken heart is one of the worst things to go through.
That's why Matt Hammitt, the lead singer of the Christian band Sanctus Real, and his wife have started the Whole Hearts Foundation.
Matt Hammitt and his wife had a baby boy last fall with a congenital heart defect. Little did he know, when Sanctus Real released their latest cd 6 months earlier called Pieces of a Real Heart, that the theme of the cd would be the theme of his family.
Their son, Bowen is doing great now but they want to make sure that every baby in Bowen's situation receives the same care and help as they did. That's why they have teamed up with Pepsi for the Refresh Everything campaign. You can go to Pepsi's website by clicking here (or above on Whole Hearts) to vote for this organization! Follow Matt on twitter, @matthammitt, to keep up with the information. This is the last week so get busy and vote! And share with everyone!!!!
Love, friendship, spiritually and physically a broken heart is one of the worst things to go through.
That's why Matt Hammitt, the lead singer of the Christian band Sanctus Real, and his wife have started the Whole Hearts Foundation.
Matt Hammitt and his wife had a baby boy last fall with a congenital heart defect. Little did he know, when Sanctus Real released their latest cd 6 months earlier called Pieces of a Real Heart, that the theme of the cd would be the theme of his family.
Their son, Bowen is doing great now but they want to make sure that every baby in Bowen's situation receives the same care and help as they did. That's why they have teamed up with Pepsi for the Refresh Everything campaign. You can go to Pepsi's website by clicking here (or above on Whole Hearts) to vote for this organization! Follow Matt on twitter, @matthammitt, to keep up with the information. This is the last week so get busy and vote! And share with everyone!!!!
Monday, July 4, 2011
Freedom, Family, Friends and FOOD!
Last year at this time, our family was quite a mess. It had only been a month since Donny's accident and he had only been home from the hospital for about a week. We didn't really get to do any of our normal family stuff. And as I look forward to today, I am excited to spend time with family, friends AND EAT!!! This quote from Erma Bombek fits perfectly,
"You have to love a nation that celebrates its independence every July 4th, not with a parade of guns, tanks, and soldiers who file by the White House in a show of strength and muscle, but with family picnics where kids throw Frisbees, the potato salad gets iffy, and the flies die from happiness. You may think you have overeaten, but it is patriotism."
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Time
One song says that time is on my side, "Yes, it is!". I also hear that time flies. I think the latter is more true than anything else!
See this face
It became this face
Which then became
and then
which is one of my most favorite pictures of this little twerp. And then this face led to
this which makes me giggle. And then we came to this
and next week, he will be 6.
Did you hear me? I said 6! And I ask, again, where does time go?
As much as this child makes me nuts and at times want to cry, I can not imagine life without his funny little quips or actions.
For instance, last week he taught us that "lightning comes from hell cause it's scary." Now, where would be without that knowledge that only he can give? Where I ask you!?!
Life hasn't been dull since we were blessed with this child and I am looking forward to all God has in store for him.
See this face
Which then became
which is one of my most favorite pictures of this little twerp. And then this face led to
this which makes me giggle. And then we came to this
and next week, he will be 6.
Did you hear me? I said 6! And I ask, again, where does time go?
As much as this child makes me nuts and at times want to cry, I can not imagine life without his funny little quips or actions.
For instance, last week he taught us that "lightning comes from hell cause it's scary." Now, where would be without that knowledge that only he can give? Where I ask you!?!
Life hasn't been dull since we were blessed with this child and I am looking forward to all God has in store for him.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Rainy Day Haikus
Rainy, rainy day
You are so gloomy to me
Want to clean and nap
Not the best Haiku you've ever read, I am sure. I enjoy the rain and loathe it all at the same time. It just seems we've had SO much!
On to another subject. How do you get boys to clean their room? I mean, I have friends who have kids that probably border OCD and cleaning up is NEVER an issue. In this house, it's a problem. Grounding, spankings, loss of privileges, rewards...nothing works! And I am at the point where I don't think I should have to go down and clean it myself when they are both old enough to be able to do it themselves. AND, if I do go down, it will most likely end up in them losing most of their toys to boxes, Goodwill or the dump. As it stands now, they haven't gotten any new toys since Christmas because they didn't take care of the ones they got then!
Okay, Moms, let me hear it. Suggestions are welcomed and appreciated!
Two red headed boys
Ginormously messy room
Two red headed boys
You are so gloomy to me
Want to clean and nap
Not the best Haiku you've ever read, I am sure. I enjoy the rain and loathe it all at the same time. It just seems we've had SO much!
On to another subject. How do you get boys to clean their room? I mean, I have friends who have kids that probably border OCD and cleaning up is NEVER an issue. In this house, it's a problem. Grounding, spankings, loss of privileges, rewards...nothing works! And I am at the point where I don't think I should have to go down and clean it myself when they are both old enough to be able to do it themselves. AND, if I do go down, it will most likely end up in them losing most of their toys to boxes, Goodwill or the dump. As it stands now, they haven't gotten any new toys since Christmas because they didn't take care of the ones they got then!
Okay, Moms, let me hear it. Suggestions are welcomed and appreciated!
Two red headed boys
Ginormously messy room
Two red headed boys
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Thoughts of the day
So many different thoughts were running through my mind today and I so much wanted to blog about them all.
I should've written them down.
But I didn't.
So, I will meander about, rambling and hopefully something good comes from it.
Gifts
I believe what the Bible says in Ephesians 4:11, "He handed out gifts of apostle, prophet, evangelist, and pastor-teacher to train Christ's followers in skilled servant work, working within Christ's body, the church, until we're all moving rhythmically and easily with each other, efficient and graceful in response to God's Son, fully mature adults, fully developed within and without, fully alive like Christ." (The Message)
I have taken several Spiritual Gift Inventories and I always get similar answers. I guess that means they are true! One of them is Words of Wisdom and the other the gift of Discernment. These two come in handy so often! And at the same time, they can be so difficult!
Let me explain myself here. It's really hard to know what a person NEEDS to hear and to then actually TELL them.
On facebook tonight, I wanted to type a particular status regarding this. But as I typed, I realized the aftermath that could ensue and didn't post it. I feel like I missed the ball. So, instead of just putting it on FB I decided that I would blog about it now.
Here it goes!
I can't help but believe that God's heart is completely breaking over the things that people, people who say they love Him, post on their statuses.
Why do some of you feel the need to post things that are in no way glorifying Him? Why do you insist on listening to things that are not bringing you closer to Him?
Teenagers- oh, Lord help me here. Teenagers, why do you feel the need to air ALL of your dirty laundry and thoughts for the whole world to see? Why do you feel it's okay to go to church on Sunday or Wednesday and then every other day post statuses that use words that are vulgar, racist, hurtful or worse?! I am honestly too embarrassed and ashamed to write some of the words that students who attend my youth have put in their status updates.
I. Just. Don't. Get. It.
What does God have to do to get the attention of your heart? What will it take for you to become sold out for Jesus? What, in this world, is so worth giving up a life in Christ to have?
These questions are not rhetorical. I would love to hear answers.
Our Pastor's motto is "What got you here, won't get you there." Do you know what that means? The actions you have taken and the words you have spoken that lead you to where you are at in your life are not going to be the same as the actions and words needed to take you to the next level...out of despair, bitterness, anger and hurt. These things can only be escaped by turning your heart truly and completely to the One who is able to walk you THROUGH the hardships of this life. You won't ever be immune to the flaming arrows of the enemy, but when you are walking with Christ, you have an armor ready for you to wear so that you do not be come defeated but realize you have overcome!
You are more than a conqueror!
Want life? Give yours up. Let God take your life. He gives a new one! One that never ends and is filled with peace in the midst of storms. Love in the midst of pain. Healing in the midst of sickness. Joy in the midst of sorrow. Life where there is death.
Is it easy to walk the narrow path that God has laid out for you? No. Will there be obstacles? Of course! But God's Word assures us that He walks with us and stands with us in the good and bad times.
He loves you so much. Please, do Him a favor, love Him with more than just lip service.
I love the old saying, "Dying for me was the most He could do. Living for Him is the least I can do."
So where do you stand? He brings freedom. He brings peace. He brings joy. He brings hope, love, grace, favor, strength and the best is the His mercy is new every morning!
Please don't turn from Him. He is calling you to His side. He is reaching out with nail scarred hands. Grab a hold to those hands and hold on tight! I promise you, you won't regret it. Go ahead and just give Him a try. I double dog dare you.
I should've written them down.
But I didn't.
So, I will meander about, rambling and hopefully something good comes from it.
Gifts
I believe what the Bible says in Ephesians 4:11, "He handed out gifts of apostle, prophet, evangelist, and pastor-teacher to train Christ's followers in skilled servant work, working within Christ's body, the church, until we're all moving rhythmically and easily with each other, efficient and graceful in response to God's Son, fully mature adults, fully developed within and without, fully alive like Christ." (The Message)
I have taken several Spiritual Gift Inventories and I always get similar answers. I guess that means they are true! One of them is Words of Wisdom and the other the gift of Discernment. These two come in handy so often! And at the same time, they can be so difficult!
Let me explain myself here. It's really hard to know what a person NEEDS to hear and to then actually TELL them.
On facebook tonight, I wanted to type a particular status regarding this. But as I typed, I realized the aftermath that could ensue and didn't post it. I feel like I missed the ball. So, instead of just putting it on FB I decided that I would blog about it now.
Here it goes!
I can't help but believe that God's heart is completely breaking over the things that people, people who say they love Him, post on their statuses.
Why do some of you feel the need to post things that are in no way glorifying Him? Why do you insist on listening to things that are not bringing you closer to Him?
Teenagers- oh, Lord help me here. Teenagers, why do you feel the need to air ALL of your dirty laundry and thoughts for the whole world to see? Why do you feel it's okay to go to church on Sunday or Wednesday and then every other day post statuses that use words that are vulgar, racist, hurtful or worse?! I am honestly too embarrassed and ashamed to write some of the words that students who attend my youth have put in their status updates.
I. Just. Don't. Get. It.
What does God have to do to get the attention of your heart? What will it take for you to become sold out for Jesus? What, in this world, is so worth giving up a life in Christ to have?
These questions are not rhetorical. I would love to hear answers.
Our Pastor's motto is "What got you here, won't get you there." Do you know what that means? The actions you have taken and the words you have spoken that lead you to where you are at in your life are not going to be the same as the actions and words needed to take you to the next level...out of despair, bitterness, anger and hurt. These things can only be escaped by turning your heart truly and completely to the One who is able to walk you THROUGH the hardships of this life. You won't ever be immune to the flaming arrows of the enemy, but when you are walking with Christ, you have an armor ready for you to wear so that you do not be come defeated but realize you have overcome!
You are more than a conqueror!
Want life? Give yours up. Let God take your life. He gives a new one! One that never ends and is filled with peace in the midst of storms. Love in the midst of pain. Healing in the midst of sickness. Joy in the midst of sorrow. Life where there is death.
Is it easy to walk the narrow path that God has laid out for you? No. Will there be obstacles? Of course! But God's Word assures us that He walks with us and stands with us in the good and bad times.
He loves you so much. Please, do Him a favor, love Him with more than just lip service.
I love the old saying, "Dying for me was the most He could do. Living for Him is the least I can do."
So where do you stand? He brings freedom. He brings peace. He brings joy. He brings hope, love, grace, favor, strength and the best is the His mercy is new every morning!
Please don't turn from Him. He is calling you to His side. He is reaching out with nail scarred hands. Grab a hold to those hands and hold on tight! I promise you, you won't regret it. Go ahead and just give Him a try. I double dog dare you.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Picture me on a soap box in the middle of the street.
I do believe the end is near. Mr. Harold Camping only has a few of the details and the date wrong. I look around at the terrible things happening in our world from earthquakes (the earth will groan for His coming the Bible says), tornadoes, hurricanes, famine, wars and rumors of wars, and I can see that the end is really near.
But let us not get all caught up in the fear that can be associated with this thought.
I just want to be ready when He comes, whenever it may be. I want to help those in need, love those in need of love and give hope to the hopeless.
But let us not get all caught up in the fear that can be associated with this thought.
2 Peter 3:9-18 (New International Version)
9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare.[a]
11 Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives 12 as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming.[b] That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. 13 But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.
14 So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him. 15 Bear in mind that our Lord’s patience means salvation, just as our dear brother Paul also wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him. 16 He writes the same way in all his letters, speaking in them of these matters. His letters contain some things that are hard to understand, which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the other Scriptures, to their own destruction.
17 Therefore, dear friends, since you have been forewarned, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of the lawless and fall from your secure position. 18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.I just want to be ready when He comes, whenever it may be. I want to help those in need, love those in need of love and give hope to the hopeless.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Viewer Discretion is advised.
I feel awful for not blogging. Life has taken a few turns this past year. Let's recap.
February, 2010 I was put on bed rest with my 3rd pregnancy because of my blood pressure and almost preterm labor.
April I had my 3rd baby boy.
May started to resume some normalcy and I was settling into the mom of 3 boys.
June 1, 2010 my world turned upside down. Donny had his motorcycle accident. The boys were sort of shuffled anywhere and everywhere. I was at the mercy of friends and family and neighbors. After it happened he wasn't comfortable showing the pictures. He didn't even want to see them. But he has told me I can use a few for this blog. So I will. And here is where the "Viewer Discretion" begins.
These are just a few of the pictures we have. And these are only of the major injury.
I show these to say 3 things.
1. WATCH OUT FOR MOTORCYCLES!!!!
2. Nothing in life is guaranteed and it can change in the blink of an eye.
3. MY GOD IS SO UNBELIEVABLY GOOD!!!!
We went to see the Ortho Doctor today. GREAT news! He's doing very well. Shows NO signs of arthritis! Well on his way to a great recovery.
The end of July held surgery #7 to remove the external fixator.
August was the beginning of school and Noah started kindergarten!
September and October were fairly uneventful
November we became youth leaders...again! AND surgery #8 to correct foot drop that Donny developed in his bad leg. And money began to become an issue. Prayers and faith were all we had. Little did we know that God had moved the hearts of great friends who were busy putting things together that we had no clue about.
December marked a HUGE shift! God moved the legal part of things and we were able to close our suit and collect all settlements! He granted us favor in buying a van. We were blessed by Joyce Meyer Ministries with groceries, 2 months house payments, electric paid for a month and 2 car payments! AND, some sweet, wonderful and giving friends blessed the boys with Christmas gifts. Our attorney, also, got in the game and rounded up support for us and blessed our family. Our future Christmas mornings may never compare to this last one.
January we really began a struggle with Long Term Disability through Donny's job. It wasn't until just about 3 weeks ago that we finally got things figured out and found out that we were going to get paid and our benefits returned.
February was fairly mellow.
March- My baby brother got married! And I gained a new seester :)
April held several things. My oldest turned 8!! My baby turned 1!! And I was asked to come on staff at GCFIRST Assembly of God as the youth pastor and the church has agreed to help me get my Ministerial studies taken care of.
May2 I started in the office at the church. I am learning so much and I am excited to be on the ground level of the mighty things God is going to do!
And then the other day, I updated my blog turn on our website with this. Go ahead, take a look. This is my latest update called, Created for Him.
Sorry this sort of rambled but maybe now you have a taste of what my life is like. And this hasn't included the day to day normal "Mom" stuff that is required of me.
Thanks for reading and please stop by again!
February, 2010 I was put on bed rest with my 3rd pregnancy because of my blood pressure and almost preterm labor.
April I had my 3rd baby boy.
May started to resume some normalcy and I was settling into the mom of 3 boys.
June 1, 2010 my world turned upside down. Donny had his motorcycle accident. The boys were sort of shuffled anywhere and everywhere. I was at the mercy of friends and family and neighbors. After it happened he wasn't comfortable showing the pictures. He didn't even want to see them. But he has told me I can use a few for this blog. So I will. And here is where the "Viewer Discretion" begins.
I show these to say 3 things.
1. WATCH OUT FOR MOTORCYCLES!!!!
2. Nothing in life is guaranteed and it can change in the blink of an eye.
3. MY GOD IS SO UNBELIEVABLY GOOD!!!!
We went to see the Ortho Doctor today. GREAT news! He's doing very well. Shows NO signs of arthritis! Well on his way to a great recovery.
The end of July held surgery #7 to remove the external fixator.
August was the beginning of school and Noah started kindergarten!
September and October were fairly uneventful
November we became youth leaders...again! AND surgery #8 to correct foot drop that Donny developed in his bad leg. And money began to become an issue. Prayers and faith were all we had. Little did we know that God had moved the hearts of great friends who were busy putting things together that we had no clue about.
December marked a HUGE shift! God moved the legal part of things and we were able to close our suit and collect all settlements! He granted us favor in buying a van. We were blessed by Joyce Meyer Ministries with groceries, 2 months house payments, electric paid for a month and 2 car payments! AND, some sweet, wonderful and giving friends blessed the boys with Christmas gifts. Our attorney, also, got in the game and rounded up support for us and blessed our family. Our future Christmas mornings may never compare to this last one.
January we really began a struggle with Long Term Disability through Donny's job. It wasn't until just about 3 weeks ago that we finally got things figured out and found out that we were going to get paid and our benefits returned.
February was fairly mellow.
March- My baby brother got married! And I gained a new seester :)
April held several things. My oldest turned 8!! My baby turned 1!! And I was asked to come on staff at GCFIRST Assembly of God as the youth pastor and the church has agreed to help me get my Ministerial studies taken care of.
May2 I started in the office at the church. I am learning so much and I am excited to be on the ground level of the mighty things God is going to do!
And then the other day, I updated my blog turn on our website with this. Go ahead, take a look. This is my latest update called, Created for Him.
Sorry this sort of rambled but maybe now you have a taste of what my life is like. And this hasn't included the day to day normal "Mom" stuff that is required of me.
Thanks for reading and please stop by again!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
I don't want to take a ticket and stand in line.
I am not political. I do have opinions and I vote, but I am not a political person. So this post is one that I have debated on writing for the past 2 hours. But, here goes.
I was sitting at the dining room table working on some crafty things tonight and Donny was watching television. A hockey game to be exact. Who'd have thought? Anyway, a home improvement commercial came on and a line in it was, "Because you don't want to take a number and stand in line to fix your home." Or something very similar...the "number and stand in line" is for sure, though. What went through my mind is that apparently we can't imagine going to Home Depot/Lowe's/Ace and standing in line with a number for some wood or a hammer and yet we voted in a President who's main goal for our health benefits will require us to stand in line with a number to have that operation you need on your heart or that your child needs on their ears. It's unfathomable to me!
Okay, I am off of my soapbox and although I know that I chose to write this blog and make it public, I am just voicing my opinion and don't need to be yelled at for it. Feel free to comment but let's be respectful.
Thanks, and I don't want to stand in line.
I was sitting at the dining room table working on some crafty things tonight and Donny was watching television. A hockey game to be exact. Who'd have thought? Anyway, a home improvement commercial came on and a line in it was, "Because you don't want to take a number and stand in line to fix your home." Or something very similar...the "number and stand in line" is for sure, though. What went through my mind is that apparently we can't imagine going to Home Depot/Lowe's/Ace and standing in line with a number for some wood or a hammer and yet we voted in a President who's main goal for our health benefits will require us to stand in line with a number to have that operation you need on your heart or that your child needs on their ears. It's unfathomable to me!
Okay, I am off of my soapbox and although I know that I chose to write this blog and make it public, I am just voicing my opinion and don't need to be yelled at for it. Feel free to comment but let's be respectful.
Thanks, and I don't want to stand in line.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Fun With Apps
Apps are good.
Apps are fun.
Share your apps with everyone!
We downloaded a new app a few days ago and have been having so much fun with it! We thought we would share our fun app and the things we do with it with you.
The app is CamWow. It uses your camera to make funny pictures and other effects. Here are a few.
This one is my favorite! What's not to love about it!
Shrunken head?
There once was a Who in Whoville.....
And now to introduce you to some friends of ours.
Daniel
Kyle
John
Bethany
Josh
Go ahead now. Go grab your phone, iPod, iPad, whatever! Go to your apps and find CamWow! You won't be disappointed. It will provide hours of fun and loads of blackmail.
Apps are fun.
Share your apps with everyone!
We downloaded a new app a few days ago and have been having so much fun with it! We thought we would share our fun app and the things we do with it with you.
The app is CamWow. It uses your camera to make funny pictures and other effects. Here are a few.
Shrunken head?
There once was a Who in Whoville.....
Daniel
Kyle
John
Bethany
Josh
Go ahead now. Go grab your phone, iPod, iPad, whatever! Go to your apps and find CamWow! You won't be disappointed. It will provide hours of fun and loads of blackmail.
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