Yesterday we spent the day at the car show with Hubby's parents and aunt and uncle.
November 29, 2008
A Love Letter
Last night, long after the kids had gone to sleep, I found this heart-shaped note taped to my bathroom mirror. It's from our oldest son, Little R, 7 years old.
It says,
"Dad I (heart) you
You can see through the paper the picture he drew of the three of us holding hands.
It says,
"Dad I (heart) youI dont now what
I wood do
with out you
your the Best
Mom I (heart) you
I dont now
what I
wood do with
out you
your the
Best
look at the
back..."
You can see through the paper the picture he drew of the three of us holding hands.
November 24, 2008
All Because She Asked
Last month Sweet Pea invited her friend across the street to go with her to my parents' church's Fall Festival (which is on the property behind our house). Hubby and I had been invited to a college football game that day so my parents had the kids. The little girl and and her mom came and while they were there, the little girl got saved.
The next Sunday (or maybe a week later) the mom and daughter visited their church and her mom got saved.
Yesterday the older brother got saved. Now we're just waiting to see if the dad comes with them. As far as we know he hasn't been to the church yet.
But isn't that exciting? Just because Sweet Pea asked a friend to a fall festival, a whole family (and maybe more) may come to know Jesus and the hope of Heaven!
The next Sunday (or maybe a week later) the mom and daughter visited their church and her mom got saved.
Yesterday the older brother got saved. Now we're just waiting to see if the dad comes with them. As far as we know he hasn't been to the church yet.
But isn't that exciting? Just because Sweet Pea asked a friend to a fall festival, a whole family (and maybe more) may come to know Jesus and the hope of Heaven!
November 22, 2008
Primary Ministry
For clarification of my last post, because no guilt trips were intended...
When I started having kids and retired from outside work, I had visions of volunteering at various ministries, giving my time and resources to help others. Unfortunately, I couldn't figure out how to do that with nursing and napping babies (for 7 1/2 years I was either pregnant and/or nursing).
Every time we had a Missionsfest at church or a sermon on getting involved in a ministry at the church, I felt this great pull to do 'something' followed by guilt because I just couldn't figure out how.
Finally, I learned that I was doing 'something'. I am in the ministry of raising warriors for God's kingdom. My home is my primary ministry. There is a time for everything under heaven, and when I had newborns and toddlers to be ministered to, outside ministry had to wait.
I learned that making meals for sick friends or new moms was something I could do at home - with the kids.
Working in children's Sunday school classes when I was already at church was a way to minister without taking away from my primary ministry.
Saving change all year to give to a ministry like Wycliffe is something that can be done at home -with the kids. They helped decorate the empty oatmeal box, cut a hole in the lid, and sorted and counted up the change at the end.
They can also shop with me and pack up items for hygiene kits, Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes or pick out Gifts of Hope.
Now that the children are older I'm starting to explore outside ministries - with the kids. For example, they've memorized the Christmas story to recite and songs to sing at nursing homes this December.
I want them to experience giving in all forms. I'd love to hear what you're doing at home - with the kids - to love on others.
My point is, do not feel guilty for not doing more outside your home. This may not be the season for you. And don't compare yourself with what you see others doing. We're all gifted differently. But ask God to show you ways, in your everyday living, that you can minister to and love those you come in contact with - with the kids.
Happy Giving!
When I started having kids and retired from outside work, I had visions of volunteering at various ministries, giving my time and resources to help others. Unfortunately, I couldn't figure out how to do that with nursing and napping babies (for 7 1/2 years I was either pregnant and/or nursing).
Every time we had a Missionsfest at church or a sermon on getting involved in a ministry at the church, I felt this great pull to do 'something' followed by guilt because I just couldn't figure out how.
Finally, I learned that I was doing 'something'. I am in the ministry of raising warriors for God's kingdom. My home is my primary ministry. There is a time for everything under heaven, and when I had newborns and toddlers to be ministered to, outside ministry had to wait.
I learned that making meals for sick friends or new moms was something I could do at home - with the kids.
Working in children's Sunday school classes when I was already at church was a way to minister without taking away from my primary ministry.
Saving change all year to give to a ministry like Wycliffe is something that can be done at home -with the kids. They helped decorate the empty oatmeal box, cut a hole in the lid, and sorted and counted up the change at the end.
They can also shop with me and pack up items for hygiene kits, Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes or pick out Gifts of Hope.
Now that the children are older I'm starting to explore outside ministries - with the kids. For example, they've memorized the Christmas story to recite and songs to sing at nursing homes this December.
I want them to experience giving in all forms. I'd love to hear what you're doing at home - with the kids - to love on others.
My point is, do not feel guilty for not doing more outside your home. This may not be the season for you. And don't compare yourself with what you see others doing. We're all gifted differently. But ask God to show you ways, in your everyday living, that you can minister to and love those you come in contact with - with the kids.
Happy Giving!
November 20, 2008
Relevancy and Love
The question was posed recently, "How can we be relevant to those around us?" Meaning: How can I relate to the lost in a way that draws them to the Savior?
Relevant means "having a bearing on or connection with."
It hit me a couple of days ago, as I was reading a friend's blog, that her husband is a picture of relevancy. Early every Monday morning he goes down to a homeless shelter and runs with the homeless men who sleep there. Every Thursday he and his family go downtown and feed, fellowship with and minister to the homeless that gather.
Jesus met physical needs as well as spiritual. My friend doesn't talk about what needs to be done, he does it. He doesn't just say he loves these lost, homeless men, he shows them. Action.
Which, of course, leads me to the greatest commandment of loving God and others.
We all hear that love is a decision. I used to think that meant you decide to feel love. On the contrary, what it means is despite how you feel, you choose to show love. You choose to be patient and kind whether you feel like it or not. You choose to not act irritable even if you feel irritable. Hard to do. Is it possible? How?
Galatians says the fruit of the Spirit is love. So it is possible but only because of the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
And showing, acting in love begins at home with the ones closest to us then extends to everyone we meet.
It's so appropriate that the world says in order to love others, you must first love yourself. This is one of the enemy's lies! We already love ourselves. Why else would Jesus tell us to love our neighbors as ourselves? As Reb Bradley says, even the person who says he hates himself can't stop thinking about himself. We have no trouble loving ourselves.
The truth is, in order to love others we have to understand and believe God's love for us. Then, we have to stop looking at how we can please ourselves and look for ways to love others. It's got to be a conscious effort to make a habit of looking to the interests of others - our spouses, children, grocery cashiers, homeless guys, families without food, everyone without Hope. Eventually it will be a way of life. And a way of life that pleases our Maker.
So, how can we be relevant and draw others to Christ? Love them in word and deed.
Relevant means "having a bearing on or connection with."
It hit me a couple of days ago, as I was reading a friend's blog, that her husband is a picture of relevancy. Early every Monday morning he goes down to a homeless shelter and runs with the homeless men who sleep there. Every Thursday he and his family go downtown and feed, fellowship with and minister to the homeless that gather.
Jesus met physical needs as well as spiritual. My friend doesn't talk about what needs to be done, he does it. He doesn't just say he loves these lost, homeless men, he shows them. Action.
Which, of course, leads me to the greatest commandment of loving God and others.
We all hear that love is a decision. I used to think that meant you decide to feel love. On the contrary, what it means is despite how you feel, you choose to show love. You choose to be patient and kind whether you feel like it or not. You choose to not act irritable even if you feel irritable. Hard to do. Is it possible? How?
Galatians says the fruit of the Spirit is love. So it is possible but only because of the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
And showing, acting in love begins at home with the ones closest to us then extends to everyone we meet.
It's so appropriate that the world says in order to love others, you must first love yourself. This is one of the enemy's lies! We already love ourselves. Why else would Jesus tell us to love our neighbors as ourselves? As Reb Bradley says, even the person who says he hates himself can't stop thinking about himself. We have no trouble loving ourselves.
The truth is, in order to love others we have to understand and believe God's love for us. Then, we have to stop looking at how we can please ourselves and look for ways to love others. It's got to be a conscious effort to make a habit of looking to the interests of others - our spouses, children, grocery cashiers, homeless guys, families without food, everyone without Hope. Eventually it will be a way of life. And a way of life that pleases our Maker.
So, how can we be relevant and draw others to Christ? Love them in word and deed.
November 14, 2008
Really Celebrating Christmas
Check out this post at A Holy Experience.
After you watch the video be sure to scroll down and read how her family celebrates Jesus' birthday! A very interesting idea.
After you watch the video be sure to scroll down and read how her family celebrates Jesus' birthday! A very interesting idea.
November 12, 2008
Sticks and Stones
Sticks and stones may break my bones
but words will never hurt me.
We've heard this a million times, right? But it's far from true. Words do hurt. Some so deeply the scars last a lifetime. Even after forgiveness is offered, we can't help but remember.
Sometimes words shape us, mold us into what we are today. It seems the ones who make the biggest impact on us are those closest to us - specifically family. There are few words from others that I remember. And even if I do, they didn't make me who I am today.
How will I affect my family? Do my words build them up as Ephesians 4:29 tells me?
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."
Do I speak the truth in love (Eph 4:15)? Or do I criticize?
Do I speak the truth in love (Eph 4:15)? Or do I criticize?
Do I correct and discipline because it is in my children's best interests? Or because it is in my best interest or out of frustration? Or do I correct at all and instead ignore issues of the heart because it's too much work and I'm busy with something else?
What about my husband? Do I bring him good and not harm (Prov. 31:12)? Am I a suitable helper to him (Gen 2:18)? Suitable with my attitude and words as well as with my actions?
What about tone? What do I convey in my tone of voice - love and patience or aggravation and selfishness?
I have been hurt with words (mostly unintentionally) far worse than I've ever been hurt physically. I too have hurt others with my words. Which is what has shaped my view of the importance of teaching my children not to hurt others with their words.
Part of my action plan is teaching them to appreciate each others' differences. God made everyone with different personalities, temperaments, gifts, talents, abilities, likes and dislikes. And how creative He was! I point out how great it is that we are all so different and how boring it would be if we were all exactly alike.
I do not allow name-calling at all or allow them to criticize or make fun of each other.
Bad attitudes are not allowed to linger when an offense has occurred and been "worked through." Forgiveness is grudgeless.
I encourage them to build each other up with praise, encouragement, appreciation and kind
words.
I want to teach them to evaluate their words themselves. They can ask themselves if what they want to say is true, kind and necessary. If not, it's probably better left unsaid. If we all did this, how much better off would we be?
Which leads to the most important point...I have to lead by example. This is the hardest part. I fail, a lot. And so I apologize, a lot!
My children are way ahead of me in this area. I encourage you that the benefits far outweigh the inconvenience of addressing this issue in your home.
"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9
My children are way ahead of me in this area. I encourage you that the benefits far outweigh the inconvenience of addressing this issue in your home.
"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9
November 5, 2008
Help Others This Christmas - Updated Again (Due Mid December)
I got this email today from a friend with regards to helping others out this Christmas. I've edited it a bit just to give you the facts. Please let me know if you would like to help out.
I happen to know of a group of about 350 men who will be sleeping in a screened-in pavilion on a concrete floor on little mats for Christmas. They will have no family, no gifts, and no hope.
I have personally committed to the Coalition to come up with 350 hygiene kits. If you and your family can commit to make up a few (or a lot), please let me know. You can also put an encouraging letter in them if you want. You can be assured that I will personally make sure the pack finds a needy man this Christmas.
Help me give some hope this Christmas. And spread the word! If nobody else does it, I’ll have to get 350 on my own! But, I’d feel almost guilty to keep all those blessings to myself. ;-)
Here's what the hygiene kit should include: Take a gallon size Ziplock bag and fill with a toothbrush in a toothbrush holder, toothpaste, a pair of socks, a pair of underwear, a washcloth, deodorant, a small bottle of shampoo, a bar of soap, a razor, a comb and a small tube of hand lotion.
I happen to know of a group of about 350 men who will be sleeping in a screened-in pavilion on a concrete floor on little mats for Christmas. They will have no family, no gifts, and no hope.
I have personally committed to the Coalition to come up with 350 hygiene kits. If you and your family can commit to make up a few (or a lot), please let me know. You can also put an encouraging letter in them if you want. You can be assured that I will personally make sure the pack finds a needy man this Christmas.
Help me give some hope this Christmas. And spread the word! If nobody else does it, I’ll have to get 350 on my own! But, I’d feel almost guilty to keep all those blessings to myself. ;-)
Here's what the hygiene kit should include: Take a gallon size Ziplock bag and fill with a toothbrush in a toothbrush holder, toothpaste, a pair of socks, a pair of underwear, a washcloth, deodorant, a small bottle of shampoo, a bar of soap, a razor, a comb and a small tube of hand lotion.
That doesn't sound too hard does it? This would be a great thing to do with the kids. And if you don't want to do the shopping, but would rather me shop for you, I can do that, too.
UPDATE:
I went shopping this morning for our kit supplies. The bags will average $7-10 each. Also, trial size toothpaste is the same price as some of the regular size tubes, so I opted for that. The toothbrush covers were 2/$.50 in the travel section of Walmart. They also sell washclothes in packs of 18/$3.96. Razors 12/$6. Combs were in a pack 8/$1.96. Equate toothbrushes 2/$1.
My sister is the deal finder. She found a toothbrush with holder and toothpaste in a travel pack at Target for 99 cents, and shampoo and conditioner for .30 cents at Big Lots.
She also had a suggestion that if you have extras of anything (like you made 5 bags but bought a 6 pack of combs) someone else could use those to finish their packs. So let me know if you want to do that.
"Woe to You, America" and "Father, Forgive Them"
These are two of many thoughts that keep running through my mind this morning: "Woe to you, America" and "Father, forgive them. They know not what they do."
What I just don't get is those who claim to follow Christ "putting aside" their religion to give power to this man who thinks it is okay to slaughter unborn children. They allowed charisma and money to master their decision.
Sunday, in the church parking lot, I saw a car with 2 stickers. One said, "Vote Yes on 2" and the other "Obama". Are you kidding me?
What kind of faith is that, that you can set it aside like a jacket only to put it back on when it suits you? It's unbelievable to me.
Now, does this mean I doubt God's sovereignty in this election? Not in the least! My comfort today as I wrestle with the news I woke to this morning is that I can rest in the security of knowing it doesn't matter who is president, because God is King. He's all I need. He's all I want.
It does remind me, however, that sometimes, He gives us just what we ask for.
What I just don't get is those who claim to follow Christ "putting aside" their religion to give power to this man who thinks it is okay to slaughter unborn children. They allowed charisma and money to master their decision.
Sunday, in the church parking lot, I saw a car with 2 stickers. One said, "Vote Yes on 2" and the other "Obama". Are you kidding me?
What kind of faith is that, that you can set it aside like a jacket only to put it back on when it suits you? It's unbelievable to me.
Now, does this mean I doubt God's sovereignty in this election? Not in the least! My comfort today as I wrestle with the news I woke to this morning is that I can rest in the security of knowing it doesn't matter who is president, because God is King. He's all I need. He's all I want.
It does remind me, however, that sometimes, He gives us just what we ask for.
October 27, 2008
Decisions, Decisions
Can I just encourage any wife who reads this blog? If you struggle with a decision that needs to be made, ask your husband.
I have been mulling over something for the past 3 days, thinking I knew what I wanted to do about it just not sure exactly how to go about it. I'm being aloof with details to protect the one I mulling about.
Anyway, I've discussed it with my Hubby several times but never actually asked, "What should I do about it?" Until today.
Guys can take the emotion out of something and just make it so simple. He told me what he thinks need to be done and I'm going to do it. The stress is gone. I have such a peace about it now.
God gave us our husbands to lead and protect us. Let them. Then let go of whatever it is you're trying to control. It is so freeing.
I have been mulling over something for the past 3 days, thinking I knew what I wanted to do about it just not sure exactly how to go about it. I'm being aloof with details to protect the one I mulling about.
Anyway, I've discussed it with my Hubby several times but never actually asked, "What should I do about it?" Until today.
Guys can take the emotion out of something and just make it so simple. He told me what he thinks need to be done and I'm going to do it. The stress is gone. I have such a peace about it now.
God gave us our husbands to lead and protect us. Let them. Then let go of whatever it is you're trying to control. It is so freeing.
The Results Are In...
UPDATED!
Here are the results from my previous post. Thank you, ladies, for your witty and kind responses that I can pass along.
Question:
"Are they all yours?"
Answers:
"Last time I checked."
"I'll know for sure when the maternity test comes back."
"Every single one of these blessings is mine."
Question:
"Don't you know what causes that?"
Answers:
"Why...don't you?"
"Yeah! And we're good at it!"
"Yes and we're getting very good at it. Need just a little more practice."
"No." Look very confused and wait for the response. It's usually a good one.
"Nope! And I hope I don't find out cause I'd love to have more."
Question:
"When are you going to stop?" or "How many do you want to have?"
Answers:
"We'll stop when we have an ugly one." The idea being that parents never think their kids are ugly.
"We're just trying to keep up with our neighbors' bunnies!"
"Those bunny rabbits don't have a thing on us!"
Comment:
"You have your hands full."
Answer:
"Their not as full as our hearts."
"We are very blessed."
Here are the results from my previous post. Thank you, ladies, for your witty and kind responses that I can pass along.
Question:
"Are they all yours?"
Answers:
"Last time I checked."
"I'll know for sure when the maternity test comes back."
"Every single one of these blessings is mine."
Question:
"Don't you know what causes that?"
Answers:
"Why...don't you?"
"Yeah! And we're good at it!"
"Yes and we're getting very good at it. Need just a little more practice."
"No." Look very confused and wait for the response. It's usually a good one.
"Nope! And I hope I don't find out cause I'd love to have more."
Question:
"When are you going to stop?" or "How many do you want to have?"
Answers:
"We'll stop when we have an ugly one." The idea being that parents never think their kids are ugly.
"We're just trying to keep up with our neighbors' bunnies!"
"Those bunny rabbits don't have a thing on us!"
Comment:
"You have your hands full."
Answer:
"Their not as full as our hearts."
"We are very blessed."
October 23, 2008
Hey Jealousy
(Can you just hear the Gin Blossoms right now?)
Yes, jealousy is wrong. But admittedly I'm green with envy over all the announcements of my friends and family who are pregnant. And I just found out one is having twins!
Some of you are thinking, "You have five. Be happy." Don't get me wrong, I'm very happy. But I'm a womb-carrying human being and I think it's okay to want to use it.
Isn't it ironic? (Boy, I'm full of songs today - Alanis Morissette, now. I'll get spiritual here eventually.) Isn't it ironic that 13 years ago I never wanted any kids? And when I did start having them, I thought anyone with 3 was amazing. When our 4th child was a baby, I met a woman who at the time had 11 children (now 12). That was the day I quit talking about how many kids I had, as if it was soooo many. I realized you will always meet someone who has more and will think you are crazy for complaining about how few (in comparison) you have. Not to mention everytime you have one more, you realize how easy it really was when you had one less.
That said (and with great digression from what I'm really supposed to be posting about), I'm on assignment. It seems that as soon as you get pregnant with your 3rd child you start hearing comments like, "Don't you have cable?" or "Don't you know how this happens?"
For the most part these comments have never bothered me. The only one that ever did get me was when a man said to Hubby, "That's too many kids." I didn't hear him. If I had, I would have asked him which one he would want us to give back.
Anyway, some expectant moms are annoyed, irritated or down-right insulted by any comment that they shouldn't be having more children. So I need your help. I promised I would help out one of my lucky preggo pals. I'm looking for a few good and kind one-liners or ways that you have politely responded to those members of society, church, wherever, who don't know that God calls children a blessing, a reward.
Here's an example of one of my favorites - Mrs. Fittro (mother to 5) told me this one once. Whenever anyone would ask her, "Don't you know how this happens?" she would answer with, "Yes, and we like it!" I love using that one.
Thanks in advance for your help.
Yes, jealousy is wrong. But admittedly I'm green with envy over all the announcements of my friends and family who are pregnant. And I just found out one is having twins!
Some of you are thinking, "You have five. Be happy." Don't get me wrong, I'm very happy. But I'm a womb-carrying human being and I think it's okay to want to use it.
Isn't it ironic? (Boy, I'm full of songs today - Alanis Morissette, now. I'll get spiritual here eventually.) Isn't it ironic that 13 years ago I never wanted any kids? And when I did start having them, I thought anyone with 3 was amazing. When our 4th child was a baby, I met a woman who at the time had 11 children (now 12). That was the day I quit talking about how many kids I had, as if it was soooo many. I realized you will always meet someone who has more and will think you are crazy for complaining about how few (in comparison) you have. Not to mention everytime you have one more, you realize how easy it really was when you had one less.
That said (and with great digression from what I'm really supposed to be posting about), I'm on assignment. It seems that as soon as you get pregnant with your 3rd child you start hearing comments like, "Don't you have cable?" or "Don't you know how this happens?"
For the most part these comments have never bothered me. The only one that ever did get me was when a man said to Hubby, "That's too many kids." I didn't hear him. If I had, I would have asked him which one he would want us to give back.
Anyway, some expectant moms are annoyed, irritated or down-right insulted by any comment that they shouldn't be having more children. So I need your help. I promised I would help out one of my lucky preggo pals. I'm looking for a few good and kind one-liners or ways that you have politely responded to those members of society, church, wherever, who don't know that God calls children a blessing, a reward.
Psalm 127
Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward.
Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth.
Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them!
Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward.
Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth.
Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them!
Here's an example of one of my favorites - Mrs. Fittro (mother to 5) told me this one once. Whenever anyone would ask her, "Don't you know how this happens?" she would answer with, "Yes, and we like it!" I love using that one.
Thanks in advance for your help.
October 22, 2008
Hard Times
What if we gave up when things got too hard? There are plenty of times I've been ready to do just that.
But isn't it the hard things in life that make us better people?
James says, "Count it all joy...when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
Trials, hard times, and struggles will test our faith. If we say we trust in God, our faith should be strengthened through these circumstances in our lives. Then through that strengthening, steadfastness is produced. If we are steadfast, we will be unwavering, fixed in our direction, firm in our purpose.
Here's the problem. We say we believe a lot of things about God. Only our lives don't prove it.
What we really believe is what we actually live. I don't mean what others see us live. I mean what God sees us live.
If we say we believe He is in control, why don't we trust Him to take care of us? Why do we try to control so much ourselves?
If we say we believe He is sovereign, why don't we trust that he has a purpose for everything - the loss of a job, an unexpected pregnancy, the passing of a loved one. He works all things together for good for those who love Him. We say that. But do we believe it?
My child can say he trusts me to catch him if he jumps into the pool, but he doesn't prove he trusts me until he jumps.
Proof of our faith comes in trials, hard times.
If you admire someone because of their strong faith, know they got it because God allowed circumstances in their lives that were not easy. And maybe they didn't always pass with flying colors but they learned from what they went through. They learned that God had a purpose for every instance.
You see we all have trials, but not all of us learn from them. We either don't take responsibility for our part - blame others or society - or we don't run to Him to show us His purpose. We don't seek to grow through it.
Think about the biggest brat you've ever seen on one of those nanny shows. Aren't they that way because they got everything they wanted? They didn't have to suffer by doing chores, by putting others first, by using self-control to do what was right even if they didn't want to. Kids who are great, have learned to do what is right even when it's hard.
My oldest doesn't care for math. She's good at it but doesn't like it. I tell her at this point in her life, this is her hard thing. And if she can learn to do it without complaining (aloud or in her heart), then she will be a better person. She can learn that the next hard thing will make her even stronger. Then when something really hard comes along, she'll be able to face it with steadfastness, with unwavering faith in her loving Creator.
Life is hard. It is okay. If it was easy, think of what worthless people we would be. We get to learn patience, perseverance, trust, contentment, all kinds of great qualities that ultimately make us more like Christ.
Isn't that what it's really all about anyway? Who wants to stay the way they are? We can look at hard times as an inconvenience, a bump in the road, a time to wallow in self-pity, or we can "count it all joy" and ask God to show us how we can come out looking more like His Son, "perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
But isn't it the hard things in life that make us better people?
James says, "Count it all joy...when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
Trials, hard times, and struggles will test our faith. If we say we trust in God, our faith should be strengthened through these circumstances in our lives. Then through that strengthening, steadfastness is produced. If we are steadfast, we will be unwavering, fixed in our direction, firm in our purpose.
Here's the problem. We say we believe a lot of things about God. Only our lives don't prove it.
What we really believe is what we actually live. I don't mean what others see us live. I mean what God sees us live.
If we say we believe He is in control, why don't we trust Him to take care of us? Why do we try to control so much ourselves?
If we say we believe He is sovereign, why don't we trust that he has a purpose for everything - the loss of a job, an unexpected pregnancy, the passing of a loved one. He works all things together for good for those who love Him. We say that. But do we believe it?
My child can say he trusts me to catch him if he jumps into the pool, but he doesn't prove he trusts me until he jumps.
Proof of our faith comes in trials, hard times.
If you admire someone because of their strong faith, know they got it because God allowed circumstances in their lives that were not easy. And maybe they didn't always pass with flying colors but they learned from what they went through. They learned that God had a purpose for every instance.
You see we all have trials, but not all of us learn from them. We either don't take responsibility for our part - blame others or society - or we don't run to Him to show us His purpose. We don't seek to grow through it.
Think about the biggest brat you've ever seen on one of those nanny shows. Aren't they that way because they got everything they wanted? They didn't have to suffer by doing chores, by putting others first, by using self-control to do what was right even if they didn't want to. Kids who are great, have learned to do what is right even when it's hard.
My oldest doesn't care for math. She's good at it but doesn't like it. I tell her at this point in her life, this is her hard thing. And if she can learn to do it without complaining (aloud or in her heart), then she will be a better person. She can learn that the next hard thing will make her even stronger. Then when something really hard comes along, she'll be able to face it with steadfastness, with unwavering faith in her loving Creator.
Life is hard. It is okay. If it was easy, think of what worthless people we would be. We get to learn patience, perseverance, trust, contentment, all kinds of great qualities that ultimately make us more like Christ.
Isn't that what it's really all about anyway? Who wants to stay the way they are? We can look at hard times as an inconvenience, a bump in the road, a time to wallow in self-pity, or we can "count it all joy" and ask God to show us how we can come out looking more like His Son, "perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
October 20, 2008
Favorites
Yesterday as everyone was loading up to leave for church, I found Handsome crying in the car and saying he was hungry. I thought it was odd that he was crying about that, but I told him to go inside really quick and grab something. On his way out of the car he threw up - all over the garage floor. Thank you, Lord, it wasn't in the car! We all unloaded and stayed home to spare spreading any germs we may be carrying.
Whenever anyone is sick we lay a mattress in our bathroom floor and they get to hang out (be quarantined) in there watching movies on the portable tv until they are better.
One time when I went in to check on him and I said, "You know you're one of my favorites, right?" With a shy grin he said, "Yeah."
Of course, I tell each of them they are my favorites, but I think he might be the one that believes it the most.
Whenever anyone is sick we lay a mattress in our bathroom floor and they get to hang out (be quarantined) in there watching movies on the portable tv until they are better.
One time when I went in to check on him and I said, "You know you're one of my favorites, right?" With a shy grin he said, "Yeah."
Of course, I tell each of them they are my favorites, but I think he might be the one that believes it the most.
October 17, 2008
PMS is REAL! (This post is for Women only)
I know some of you women out there don't have a clue what it's like to have PMS but I do! Let me tell you it is not a myth. It is real.
I've been dealing with hormones for a looonnnggg time now! What bugs me is they are never consistent. So I can't always plan on it. Sometimes it's bad when I ovulate, sometimes before "my friend" arrives, sometimes during "her" visit. Sometimes I break out, sometimes I don't. Sometimes it's slight, sometimes it's major.
I actually allow 2-3 days off a month from school just for the days I wake up and know "I will not be a good teacher today."
I thought they had gotten better but for the last three days I have been mad! And I didn't even know what I was mad about. Tuesday Hubby asked me if I needed to talk about anything. I told him I was ticked off at everyone and everything. I have yelled at the kids so much, I overheard the World Changer saying, "Why is she always yelling so much?"
I kept saying, "God, just tell me what the heck I'm so angry about so I can get over it!" For some dumb reason I didn't check the calendar to see if it was time for my period. I was ready, however, to jump out a window or call an exorcist, whichever would have been easiest!
Thankfully we were out of the house a good portion of Wednesday and Thursday. My mom asked if I wanted her to stay at the house Thursday instead of me taking the kids out for our field trip. I said, "No, I can't yell at them in public, so we'll be fine."
Last night I finally felt better. And have been fine since. It's literally like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Hubby tells me I am a completely different person. Thankfully, I don't always yell like I did this week - this was a particularly bad "episode." Sometimes I'm just a little on edge and irritable and sometimes, like I said before, I actually want to jump out of a window. Of course, I wouldn't do that because I keep at least enough rationale to realize that that would really hurt! Ouch!
Anyway, I gave a nice apology to the kids this morning along with a science lesson about women and hormones. My boys are going to know more about this stuff than their wives probably!
(P.S. Yes, I've had my hormones checked in the past and had uneven levels. I've adjusted my diet and that didn't seem to affect it. I honestly believe I need to get my behind to the gym again. I've been slacking the last 3 months and I think that could be a reason I had such a tough time.)
I've been dealing with hormones for a looonnnggg time now! What bugs me is they are never consistent. So I can't always plan on it. Sometimes it's bad when I ovulate, sometimes before "my friend" arrives, sometimes during "her" visit. Sometimes I break out, sometimes I don't. Sometimes it's slight, sometimes it's major.
I actually allow 2-3 days off a month from school just for the days I wake up and know "I will not be a good teacher today."
I thought they had gotten better but for the last three days I have been mad! And I didn't even know what I was mad about. Tuesday Hubby asked me if I needed to talk about anything. I told him I was ticked off at everyone and everything. I have yelled at the kids so much, I overheard the World Changer saying, "Why is she always yelling so much?"
I kept saying, "God, just tell me what the heck I'm so angry about so I can get over it!" For some dumb reason I didn't check the calendar to see if it was time for my period. I was ready, however, to jump out a window or call an exorcist, whichever would have been easiest!
Thankfully we were out of the house a good portion of Wednesday and Thursday. My mom asked if I wanted her to stay at the house Thursday instead of me taking the kids out for our field trip. I said, "No, I can't yell at them in public, so we'll be fine."
Last night I finally felt better. And have been fine since. It's literally like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Hubby tells me I am a completely different person. Thankfully, I don't always yell like I did this week - this was a particularly bad "episode." Sometimes I'm just a little on edge and irritable and sometimes, like I said before, I actually want to jump out of a window. Of course, I wouldn't do that because I keep at least enough rationale to realize that that would really hurt! Ouch!
Anyway, I gave a nice apology to the kids this morning along with a science lesson about women and hormones. My boys are going to know more about this stuff than their wives probably!
(P.S. Yes, I've had my hormones checked in the past and had uneven levels. I've adjusted my diet and that didn't seem to affect it. I honestly believe I need to get my behind to the gym again. I've been slacking the last 3 months and I think that could be a reason I had such a tough time.)
October 15, 2008
Beyond the Gates of Splendor
One day last week during Bible-time, we read a story about Jim Elliot, Nate Saint, Pete Fleming, Ed McCully and Roger Youdarian who were missionaries in Ecuador in the 1950s. After I read it and we talked about it, I told the kids I had a video about these guys called "Beyond the Gates of Splendor" that we could watch after school.
I couldn't wait. We watched it right away.
Although I had watched the movie twice before, I kept getting names and faces mixed up and had a hard time following it. It is narrated by Nate Saint's son and the 5 missionaries' wives. Now that I had just read the story to the kids, it all made a lot more sense to watch and I was able to get so much more out of it.
Oh, the love these men and women lived out. I will try to make the story short. In the 1950s, five young, growing families all lived at separate bases in Ecuador. At some point, the men decided they wanted to reach a tribe of people known for their relentless killing of each other. One would kill another, so a family member of the one killed would kill the killer. On and on it went. The children of the tribe knew they would grow up to be speared to death or spear someone else to live. No one wanted to have anything to do with them...except these Jesus-following men from the States.
They started by using a small aircraft to drop "gifts" to the tribe and eventually landed on a small beach and befriended 3 of the tribe members. One day two of those tribe members got in trouble for going off alone, so they lied and said it was the foreigners' fault. This, of course, angered the tribe and some of the men decided to kill the foreigners.
By this time the missionaries had a fort built up in a tree and had been on this small beach for 3 or 4 days. They had taken guns with them, but when the tribesmen came to kill them, they didn't even try to use them. Why?
The missionaries knew the men from the tribe were not ready to die because they would go to hell. But they knew they were ready and were willing to die in their place. They also knew that if they shot and killed the tribe members, it would be practically impossible to ever reach them for Jesus.
The result...the tribe was reached by a couple of the widows who stayed to continue the work. Fifty plus years later Nate Saint's son and family have been back to Ecuador to minister to the natives and teach them how to spread the Word to others. One of the men responsible for the killings is actually called grandfather by Mr. Saint's grandson.
What an example of love and forgiveness! What an example of dying to self! What a legacy to leave for the generations after them!
If you want to learn more, here is the website for the documentary: http://www.beyondthegatesthemovie.com/
UPDATE: "Beyond the Gates of Splendor" is a documentary. Karen reminded me of "At the End of the Spear" which is movie format of the events. I haven't seen it so can't say if it's okay for kids to watch or not. I'll be looking into it for myself, though. Thanks, Karen, for the reminder.
I couldn't wait. We watched it right away.
Although I had watched the movie twice before, I kept getting names and faces mixed up and had a hard time following it. It is narrated by Nate Saint's son and the 5 missionaries' wives. Now that I had just read the story to the kids, it all made a lot more sense to watch and I was able to get so much more out of it.
Oh, the love these men and women lived out. I will try to make the story short. In the 1950s, five young, growing families all lived at separate bases in Ecuador. At some point, the men decided they wanted to reach a tribe of people known for their relentless killing of each other. One would kill another, so a family member of the one killed would kill the killer. On and on it went. The children of the tribe knew they would grow up to be speared to death or spear someone else to live. No one wanted to have anything to do with them...except these Jesus-following men from the States.
They started by using a small aircraft to drop "gifts" to the tribe and eventually landed on a small beach and befriended 3 of the tribe members. One day two of those tribe members got in trouble for going off alone, so they lied and said it was the foreigners' fault. This, of course, angered the tribe and some of the men decided to kill the foreigners.
By this time the missionaries had a fort built up in a tree and had been on this small beach for 3 or 4 days. They had taken guns with them, but when the tribesmen came to kill them, they didn't even try to use them. Why?
The missionaries knew the men from the tribe were not ready to die because they would go to hell. But they knew they were ready and were willing to die in their place. They also knew that if they shot and killed the tribe members, it would be practically impossible to ever reach them for Jesus.
The result...the tribe was reached by a couple of the widows who stayed to continue the work. Fifty plus years later Nate Saint's son and family have been back to Ecuador to minister to the natives and teach them how to spread the Word to others. One of the men responsible for the killings is actually called grandfather by Mr. Saint's grandson.
What an example of love and forgiveness! What an example of dying to self! What a legacy to leave for the generations after them!
If you want to learn more, here is the website for the documentary: http://www.beyondthegatesthemovie.com/
UPDATE: "Beyond the Gates of Splendor" is a documentary. Karen reminded me of "At the End of the Spear" which is movie format of the events. I haven't seen it so can't say if it's okay for kids to watch or not. I'll be looking into it for myself, though. Thanks, Karen, for the reminder.
October 7, 2008
Our Story
Thirteen years ago today, I married the man of my dreams.
Here is our story:
In highschool, he went to the Christian academy that was associated with my church. I would sometimes go to soccer or basketball games with my friends from church who also went to the academy and would see him there (he played). Sometimes he would come to our church with his friends on Sunday nights. When I would see him walk in, I would pray that he would sit in front of me so I could shake his hand during the "shaking hand" time.
I had the biggest crush on him.
I was at his graduation in 1991 because I had friends graduating with him. In the little book that listed everyone's name and what they wanted to do after highschool, his said he wanted to be a youth pastor. I thought, "He's cute, cool and he loves God!" At that time in my mind those things didn't go together. At the reception, my sister's friend took a picture of him and I put in my request for a copy. That picture hung in my locker my senior year (until my current boyfriend came to school and made me take it down).
A year or two later, my sister and her friend saw him at a comedy club and reported how cute he was! My reply was, "I might as well quite lusting after this guy. I'm never going to get a date with him anyway."
In January 1995, I started attending our current church. I was in need of a change from where I had been. I knew he went there but that was not my purpose in going. I'm serious!! Besides, I was sure he had a girlfriend.
One Wednesday night, as I was walking toward the College and Career class, I was having this conversation with God about how my motives for switching churches were pure and I wasn't there to meet him. I think I was trying to keep from getting my hopes up. I hadn't even laid eyes on him yet.
Well, sure enough, he and a friend were outside the building next door trying to decide if they were going to go to another church that night. I won't say why they were going to do that, but it had something to do with there not being any girls at our church that they were interested in.
When he saw me walking toward the class, he decided to stay. Oh, my beating heart! There he was, in the flesh!! The class was set up in a circle and he sat right across from me. I didn't hear a word. The only thing I was paying attention to was whether he caught me looking at him or not.
On his way out that night, he introduced himself. I said, "I know who you are."
He asked me out for our first date Sunday morning, January 22, 1995. When I got home I told my parents that "I was keeping this one."
I was still going to my old church on Sunday nights so he met me there after the service. He was too nervous to eat so we picked up Taco Bell for me and watched a movie at his house.
Eight and a half months later we were all dressed up as bride and groom. I wasn't a bit nervous. But when they opened the doors and I saw him standing at the altar, he took my breath away. I started to shake and cry a little. Dad asked if I was okay. All I could say was, "He's so beautiful!"
I often say that I don't know why God gave him to me because I don't deserve him. But oh how thankful I am.
Here is our story:
In highschool, he went to the Christian academy that was associated with my church. I would sometimes go to soccer or basketball games with my friends from church who also went to the academy and would see him there (he played). Sometimes he would come to our church with his friends on Sunday nights. When I would see him walk in, I would pray that he would sit in front of me so I could shake his hand during the "shaking hand" time.
I had the biggest crush on him.
I was at his graduation in 1991 because I had friends graduating with him. In the little book that listed everyone's name and what they wanted to do after highschool, his said he wanted to be a youth pastor. I thought, "He's cute, cool and he loves God!" At that time in my mind those things didn't go together. At the reception, my sister's friend took a picture of him and I put in my request for a copy. That picture hung in my locker my senior year (until my current boyfriend came to school and made me take it down).
A year or two later, my sister and her friend saw him at a comedy club and reported how cute he was! My reply was, "I might as well quite lusting after this guy. I'm never going to get a date with him anyway."
In January 1995, I started attending our current church. I was in need of a change from where I had been. I knew he went there but that was not my purpose in going. I'm serious!! Besides, I was sure he had a girlfriend.
One Wednesday night, as I was walking toward the College and Career class, I was having this conversation with God about how my motives for switching churches were pure and I wasn't there to meet him. I think I was trying to keep from getting my hopes up. I hadn't even laid eyes on him yet.
Well, sure enough, he and a friend were outside the building next door trying to decide if they were going to go to another church that night. I won't say why they were going to do that, but it had something to do with there not being any girls at our church that they were interested in.
When he saw me walking toward the class, he decided to stay. Oh, my beating heart! There he was, in the flesh!! The class was set up in a circle and he sat right across from me. I didn't hear a word. The only thing I was paying attention to was whether he caught me looking at him or not.
On his way out that night, he introduced himself. I said, "I know who you are."
He asked me out for our first date Sunday morning, January 22, 1995. When I got home I told my parents that "I was keeping this one."
I was still going to my old church on Sunday nights so he met me there after the service. He was too nervous to eat so we picked up Taco Bell for me and watched a movie at his house.
Eight and a half months later we were all dressed up as bride and groom. I wasn't a bit nervous. But when they opened the doors and I saw him standing at the altar, he took my breath away. I started to shake and cry a little. Dad asked if I was okay. All I could say was, "He's so beautiful!"
I often say that I don't know why God gave him to me because I don't deserve him. But oh how thankful I am.
Happy Anniversary, Babe! I love you forever and always!
October 6, 2008
Get Well, Meme!
Hope these pictures brighten your day. 
We're praying for you to have a speedy recovery.
Can't wait to see you Thursday!
October 5, 2008
God's Love
I have been a Christian since I was 6. When I met my future mate 14 years ago, however, is when I really began to realize what the Christian life is about. It's not rules and regulations, it's a daily relationship with Jesus Christ. Seeing that relationship in his life showed me how far I was missing the mark and inspired me to grow in my own relationship with the Lord.
Fastforward to this year - 2008. This year God has made it a point to help me understand even more what being a daughter of the King really means. He has put me in just the right places several times in the last 9 months to show me, prove to me, teach me, and fill me with His love.
It is easy for me to accept commands of the Bible. It has not been as easy for me to accept the promises of the Bible. Especially those about God's love. For example Psalm 139; I either think, "Well that was just for David" or I think, "Where did I go wrong?"
In my mind, I need to do more or be better in order to be acceptable to God, to be loved by Him. I have believed lies from the enemy. I have stunted my spiritual growth by doing so.
The truth is I cannot fully, unconditionally love others until I have understood the love of my Father. The truth is He loves me simply because I exist. I don't have to do a thing. That truth amazes me. It humbles me. It stills me.
Fastforward to this year - 2008. This year God has made it a point to help me understand even more what being a daughter of the King really means. He has put me in just the right places several times in the last 9 months to show me, prove to me, teach me, and fill me with His love.
It is easy for me to accept commands of the Bible. It has not been as easy for me to accept the promises of the Bible. Especially those about God's love. For example Psalm 139; I either think, "Well that was just for David" or I think, "Where did I go wrong?"
In my mind, I need to do more or be better in order to be acceptable to God, to be loved by Him. I have believed lies from the enemy. I have stunted my spiritual growth by doing so.
The truth is I cannot fully, unconditionally love others until I have understood the love of my Father. The truth is He loves me simply because I exist. I don't have to do a thing. That truth amazes me. It humbles me. It stills me.
I wonder who am I that He would be so purposeful this year in my life. His answer to me is that I am His child. I am His beloved. I am His.
Romans 8:39
Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
September 29, 2008
Memory
The one thing I always remember is that I can't remember anything!
I'm always telling someone that I can't or won't remember something unless I write it down.
It could be something I need to do or even a story or conversation I'm retelling. I will more than likely forget all or part of it.
Tonight, Hubby remembered we had videos due back at the library. The library is only a few minutes away so he was just going to run drop them off before it closed.
A few minutes later, (note: a few minutes) the World Changer comes in looking for Daddy. I said, "I don't know where he is, maybe downstairs."
He comes back and says, "He's not downstairs." I said, "I don't know, try calling him." So he calls and calls his name. No answer. I'm starting to get annoyed that he's not answering and hasn't told anyone where he is.
I start calling him and finally realize, Oh yeah! He went to the library.
Seriously! 34 is too young for this, isn't it?!
I'm always telling someone that I can't or won't remember something unless I write it down.
It could be something I need to do or even a story or conversation I'm retelling. I will more than likely forget all or part of it.
Tonight, Hubby remembered we had videos due back at the library. The library is only a few minutes away so he was just going to run drop them off before it closed.
A few minutes later, (note: a few minutes) the World Changer comes in looking for Daddy. I said, "I don't know where he is, maybe downstairs."
He comes back and says, "He's not downstairs." I said, "I don't know, try calling him." So he calls and calls his name. No answer. I'm starting to get annoyed that he's not answering and hasn't told anyone where he is.
I start calling him and finally realize, Oh yeah! He went to the library.
Seriously! 34 is too young for this, isn't it?!
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