Every Day Faith

Present

2012-01-16T17:52:00.001-08:00

The New Year has begun and I decided to choose one word for this year. I found this site last year and shared my 2011 word here in this post. My goal with choosing one word is to have it be a filter that I view my life through in 2012. My 2012 One Word is Present. I want it to remind me that God is present...all the time. Psalm 46:1 says, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."

God is an ever-present help! That's pretty amazing if you stop and think about it. The problem for me is that I don't often stop to think about it. I tend to freak out, worry, fret, wail, etc, etc, etc. It's not pretty and it's not very mature. It is the truth sometimes for me, unfortunately. All is not lost though.

Since deciding this was my one word a few weeks ago, I've realized that it also means for me to be present, in the moment. To deal with things as they come up. Not to dwell, replay and relive. Not to reason why or why not and talk myself out of something (I do this a lot!). To deal presently…in the moment. Practicing this these first few weeks of the New Year has been life changing for me. Things that would normally become toxic in my life are not. It's very refreshing to not have all the "stuff" spinning around in my head. Deal with it and move on.

Do you choose a One Word for the year? I'd love to hear about it.

With

2011-12-23T17:23:00.001-08:00

"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"--which means, "God with us." Matthew 1:23

Today I found myself humming a Christmas song that talks about Immanuel, God with us. It's my favorite name of God. It reminds me that I'm never alone, never without His presence.

Just typing that seems unreal, impossible even. It's not. Jesus came to Earth to be with us and when He left, God sent the Holy Spirit to be with us.

"And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever-- " John 14:16

This time of year it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, shopping, running to parties, and planning meals for all the guests. Sometimes we miss the point of being with each other.

We miss the reason that Jesus came-- to be with us. Be intentional this Christmas about spending time with Jesus and with your loved ones. It's the real reason we celebrate Christmas.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Have a Little Talk

2011-11-30T09:07:00.001-08:00

My daughter and I have a routine we follow most days when she gets home from school. I say, "Hi honey, how was your day?" She responds and then says, "How was your day?" Recently I responded with, "I'm wiped out! I had an argument with my friend." To which my sweet girl replied, "Moma, they need to talk to Jesus!" It made me smile, because my girl was so quick to take up for her Moma.

It also reminded me of a song that I grew up singing in church. And at the risk of revealing just how far in the South I grew up, it was called "Just a Little Talk with Jesus", I think! Here's the words to the part I remember:

Now let us have a little talk with Jesus

Let us tell him all about our troubles

He will hear our faintest cry he will answer by and by

And when you feel a little prayer wheel turnin'

And you will know a little fire is burnin'

Find a little talk with Jesus makes it right

So I took my sweet girl's advice and had a little talk with Jesus about the argument with my friend. God is good and brings restoration and reconciliation if we're willing. He did for me and my friend and used my teenager to help me see it was possible. Amazing.

For those of you wondering about the song, look what I found on the wonderful web. Click here for a treat, Elvis style! Be warned, you made feel the need to tap your feet. Just make sure no one is watching. Enjoy your day and have a little talk with Jesus everyday.

Shine

2011-11-14T16:48:00.001-08:00

I had the privilege this past weekend to speak at Shine, an event for women at Hilt on Head Island Community Church. It was such a blessing to see God moving in the hearts of these women to start small group Bible studies at their church. We talked a lot about the importance of making connections to the body of Christ as believers. Those connections are what hold us accountable and keep us grounded in God's Word. We used the model of the early church found in Acts to set-up what a small group looks like and how each of us can participate. Acts 2:42 taught us that the believers were devoted to:

The teachings of Jesus (the study of God's Word)

The fellowship (the small group and the church)

The breaking of bread together (communion and sharing of meals)

Prayer (for each other, the small group and the church at large)

As someone who has been involved with small groups for over half my life now, it was a great reminder for me. I just finished Max Lucado's book, Fearless, and in it he has some great thoughts about the desire for the church to connect physically to the body of Christ. He reminds us that it is possible because the church is the body of Christ. He says, "When you interlock your understanding with mine, and we share our discoveries…When we mix, mingle, confess, and pray, Christ speaks." That alone should make the sacrifice of our time and energy worth the commitment.

I am so thankful to Cynthia Cullen and her team for having me and my family with them this weekend. We are blessed.

Footloose

2011-10-24T17:26:00.001-07:00

On Friday, I took my 13 year old daughter and her friend to see the movie Footloose. No biggie, I thought. It'll be fun to see the remake and to see if my daughter likes it as much as I did the first time around. In the opening scene, the music starts blaring the song Footloose. So like every other person in the theatre (and it was packed full), I started singing along. My daughter was mortified. I don't have this great voice but it couldn't be that bad. No one could hear me anyway…it was very loud. "Stop it mother, just stop!" Hannah was more than a little upset with me. I cracked up and told her to just listen…everybody else was singing along too. It was pretty funny.

Later I realized that I had justified my behavior the same way I tell my daughter not too. Oops! More often than not, I counsel her not to make choices based on what everybody else is doing. Rather I tell her to be intentional about what she's doing and to really consider what she wants.

Last week in Bible study we looked at a similar lesson in the book of Ruth. Towards the end of the book in chapter 3, Ruth goes to Boaz in the night and essentially asks him to take her as his wife. Boaz is a kinsman-redeemer, but he's not the closest one. Boaz could have done several things but he chose to do the right thing. He could have embarrassed Ruth, but he chose to protect her character. He could have taken her as his, but he chose to follow the customs of the day and bring the matter to the appropriate person. He does the right thing.

It was actually a message in the movie too! The young folks could have chosen to rebel and keep sneaking around. **Spoiler Alert** In the end, they choose to confront the real issue and be honest about what they want. And at the risk of being totally honest, I sang again at the end of the movie….'cause everybody else was! A work in progress, that's me.

Trust

2011-09-23T11:48:00.000-07:00

Every day that I take my children to school we pass a police officer directing traffic. At my daughter’s school, the officer stands at an intersection that is pretty busy. The road the school is on runs perpendicular into a really busy street.
Once I drop my daughter off and head back towards the intersection, I’m usually going left. Some days the officer just motions for me to keep moving. It feels really strange, because technically I’m running a stop sign. But the officer told me too. (That sounds like my kids saying the dog ate their homework!) It’s true, at least in my case, that the officer told me to not that the dog ate my homework.
Some days I hesitate. Some days I completely stop and look for myself. And then some days, I roll right on through. It’s a matter of trust. The police officer wants the flow of traffic to run smoothly. His goal is safety and protection for those of us who pass through this intersection. I know that and yet some days I don’t trust it.

The same is true in my walk with Jesus. I know that He loves me and wants my best. (See John 3:16 and Jeremiah 29:11) I sense His direction and leading. He opens doors and provides opportunities. Some days I hesitate. Some days I do what I want to. And then some days, I roll with it. It truly is a matter of trust.

Power Suit

2011-09-08T07:48:00.001-07:00

Do you remember watching Superman on tv? Clark Kent was the mild-mannered newspaper reporter by day, big black glasses and all. When he wanted or needed to do something great, he became Superman. He would dash off to the nearest closest or alley and come back with his blue tights and red cape on. With his power suit, he was faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful than a locomotive and able to leap tall buildings in a single bound! It was pretty exciting stuff to watch. The power suit gave him the ability to do more than the average person thought possible. Did you know that we too have a power suit defined by God that gives us the ability to do great things. It's described in Ephesians 6:13-18(NIV).

"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints."

In her Bible study, Power Suit: The Armor of God Fit for the Feminine Frame, Sharon Norris Elliott teaches us much about wearing it well. Each chapter focuses on a portion of the armor andthe hindrances we need to shed in order to have a suit fitted for us. Can you imagine how silly Clark Kent would have looked putting on the blue tights and cape over his business suit? The image on our tv screen would have been hilarious and our belief in his ability greatly diminished. Ms. Elliott teaches us that we do the same with God's armor when we try to mask sin or hang on to things of this world while wearing God's armor. In order for truth, righteousness, peace, faith and God's Word to fit properly in our lives, we need to take off the old stuff, the sin that entangles us. Every day we need to dress in the newness of God's power, completely unhindered, and watch as God gives us the supernatural ability to prevail.

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ICRS 2011

2011-09-01T08:55:00.001-07:00

Writing is a funny thing for me. Sometimes it flows easily and other times I have absolutely no desire to write anything. That's probably true about most things that we do. The agony occurs when I do have thoughts that I want to write about and there's no time to string the sentences together. It's frustrating. This is where I have found myself this summer, a long hot summer! Today, however, the kids have been back in school for a few weeks and the routine is coming back together. With that said, hopefully I'll be posting on a more frequent basis.

Much happened this summer that I want to tell you about. The biggest event for me was going to ICRS-The International Christian Retail Show held in Atlanta. This is where I went with my publisher to promote Every Day Faith. The show was three days of non-stop walking, talking and promoting the Bible study to the attendees at the show. The show is where retailers come to find products for their stores. They represented brick and mortar stores, on-line stores and church stores from all over the world. I met folks from just about every state in the U.S., Korea, the Philipines, Trinidad, China, and many other places that I can't remember. It was exciting and an amazing time to see how God is at work all over the world. It was also fascinating to meet authors of all types of genres. I was especially impressed with the number of authors that were from Georgia.

Since this was my first time attending the show, I had no idea of what to expect. I certainly didn't anticipate the number of books that I would be given. This picture is just a portion of the books that we received over the three days. I don't know the count, but I'm pretty sure I have enough to open a small store of my own! Since then I've given many of them away, read quite a few and put some away as resources for my next Bible study.

Funny story about the picture. The book sitting toward the far right corner is called, "52 Ways to Wow Your Husband". My nine year old son was sitting with me as I sorted the books and he asked, "What do you need that book for?" To which I replied, "Don't you think I need to wow your Daddy?" He says, "No, I think He's wowed enough!" The picture is so blurry because I was cracking up laughing. Out of the mouth of babes….

Author's Beat

2011-07-22T17:21:00.000-07:00

The Author's Beat is a site that carries interviews with lots of authors. I had the privilege of recording with them last week about Every Day Faith. Once I got past the butterflies, it was a lot of fun.

Here's the link below. Just click on the title once you're on their site.

Also, please leave a comment to let them know what you think. Diana Kay and her husband, John, were very nice and encouraging to this new author. I really appreciated their invitation.

Every Day Faith on the Author's Beat

Hairy Scary

2011-06-27T12:52:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was Sunday. It should have been a pleasant, restful day. Well at least it started out that way. We went to church, visited with some family afterwards. Ran by a local bar-b-que place for lunch and then home for a quiet day, or so we thought.

The husband man decided he would cut the grass earlier than planned, because the forecast was calling for thunderstorms later in the day. I'm sitting on the couch reading the Sunday paper, when he comes barreling in the door looking like he saw a ghost. Or maybe looking like a ghost, because he was white as a sheet in the face! Being the calm one in the family (yeah right), I asked, "What's the matter with you?" To which he replies, "There's a spider in my shoe, a big, fat ugly one!" I begin to laugh, hysterically, because I'm just that caring and loving. I'm thinking just kill it and move on with your life. He's obviously concerned that the big, fat, ugly, black spider bit him. I try to feign some concern, but the husband man is not buying it.

Eventually, I get off the couch and go in the garage to find the culprit. Hairy Scary! It was nasty and I can't imagine what it felt like on his foot. Don't want to either, it gives me the creeps just thinking about it. So I do what any other caring and loving wife would do…I smack it with his flip flops! Here's a before picture.

And just in case you're wondering, he cut the grass in his flip flops. Not sure he'll ever wear those shoes again!

Later that evening the thunderstorms moved in. We watched the trees in our backyard, sway and tip and prayed none of them would fall over. (One did a couple of years ago!) The husband man decided to run an errand, and here's what was in the driveway.

Obviously, we forgot to look in the front yard. The husband man got out his chain saw and cut it up. When we pulled it to the back yard, here's what we found back there!

So how was your Sunday?

Three Letter Word

2011-06-13T13:08:00.001-07:00

This weekend the little man had an allergic reaction to some eye drops. The drops were supposed to clear up his "pink eye". Unfortunately, he ended up with a "flaming red eye" that looked horrible. He assured us constantly that it didn't hurt, but those of us around him just knew that it did. Did I mention it looked awful? Painful?

We took him to the pediatrician who sent us straight to the local children's hospital. The concern was that his eye may be damaged. Thankfully his eye is fine and that was a great relief. However, the Saturday morning mad dash to the ER with the little man was a bit unnerving. Immediately I was able to text a few close friends and ask them to pray for the Mister. There is nothing like knowing you have "peeps" who will pray for you and with you. I am incredibly blessed and we are thankful, as a family, that we have such friends.

I had to ask myself, though, am I that kind of friend? You know the kind that will stop immediately and pray when asked to or the kind that has compassion for another's struggles. The honest answer for me is sometimes or it depends. Too often there's an excuse involved. It's not pretty, but it is the truth.

"Praise be to the God and Father of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." 2 Corinthians 1:3 ,4

Recently I studied this verse and I realized that I had been copping out on encouraging and comforting others. It was so easy to say I can't relate, because I've not walked in their shoes. Or I've never had that situation, so I don't know what to do. A closer look at the verses above would tell me otherwise. First, God is the God of all comfort, not me. (Duh? I know.) Secondly, God comforts us in all our troubles. This one I sort of got. I typically don't have a problem believing that God will comfort you or me. It's the last part I hadn't fully grasped. It says, "…so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." That three letter word, a.n.y., covers e.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g. God doesn't allow me or you an "out" because we don't get it. He comforts us as we need it and that same comfort can be used for others, in any situation. So when the opportunity arises again, no more excuses.

Facing Your Fears

2011-06-03T09:17:00.001-07:00

Do you face your fears? Not me. I'm good at just knowing what I can deal with and what I can't. For instance, I don't swim because I don't like anything over my head. I'm claustrophobic and the thought that water could be over my face and envelope my head is just too much for me to handle. A few days ago, I had to face a big fear…an MRI. Before I tell you the story, let me just say that everything is fine. The MRI was requested by my doctor to make sure that all was well and it is. Thank you Jesus.

I enter the imaging center and this Dear Woman (DW) takes me in the room with the long white tube. I tried to stare it down, but it wouldn't budge! It just sat there, taunting me. I'm sweating so profusely, that I think I'll probably get electrocuted from all the water. So DW says for me to lie down and put my shoulders all the way to the top. Then she has the nerve to put a CAGE over my head. I'm getting a little panicky, but think it will be o-k. I tell myself it's like wearing my daughter's pitching mask when I catch for her. I can see; I can talk…we're good. My breathing is fast, but I'm hanging in there. Then I start to move into the tube. All is well, at least I think so. Before I can close my eyes, DW hits the "up" button. Seriously, this thing is in my face. I'm pretty sure I could touch it with my tongue, and that's just way too close. Did I not mention that I am claustrophobic? She should have known better. I'm in a full blown panic attack, yelling for her to get me out. NOW!!!

I sat up for a few minutes and tried to gather myself. Then I realized that this is the path to finding out what the sharp pain in my head is all about. At least it will confirm that it's an inflamed lymph node pressing on a nerve and nothing more serious. So I've got to do this thing. Really Jesus, I'm thinking. Surely You can make it just stop. But it's not and the tube is still there, waiting. DW asks if I would like a cold cloth for my head. Not so much. Nothing else on my head is required. Thank you very much. Bless her heart. She then asked me if anyone was with me that could come in. NOBODY is getting in this thing with me lady. It's crowded enough. (I told you I was in a full blown panic attack!)

However, I did ask for a panic button. It made me feel better and it was really loud. So we try this thing again. This time I keep my eyes closed the whole time. The first test is 8 minutes lonnngggg. At first I'm still thinking it's not happening, and my finger is on the button. But then I start to pray. Jesus please help me to calm down. Jesus please help me not to push the button. Scripture begins to come to my mind about God being bigger than my sad, pathetic claustrophobic self. Romans 8:37 is a verse I memorized a couple of months ago. "NO, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." I'm thinking No Satan you are not winning. No, weak flesh you are not giving in. I'm thinking I am a conqueror through Jesus. The next verse comes. Psalm 46:10, "Be still and know that I am God." Did I mention that I had to be very still…no moving allowed? I've got a death grip on the panic button, but I'm still. Yeah God. It's working. DW says, "You're half way done. You're doing great!" The last few minutes were pure bliss…at least for me. My breathing slowed down and I was hearing this song, The Power of the Cross, playing in my head. The first test was done.

If you're still reading, there was a second round of tests. This would require about 20 minutes in the tube. The tests would run about 2-4 minutes each. I could come in and out of the tube or just work straight through. Mercy. Grace. I didn't commit either way. Just put my head down, got locked in and waited for the tests to begin. These tests came with loud noises. One was like someone using a jackhammer; the next was like gun fire in the distance then close by. A longer one, about 4 minutes, almost got me. It sounded like a freight train and I kept thinking I can't get up. There were a few more and we were done. I MADE IT! ALL THE WAY!!! Thank you Jesus. Fear is gripping, but the power of Jesus and His Word is bigger and able to handle any fear we have. This is not the way I would have chosen to experience the peace and presence of Jesus this week. But without a doubt, I am so glad that I did.

Now if we can just figure out what to do with the 600 images of my brain....

Eight Weeks Later

2011-05-25T07:55:00.001-07:00

It's been eight weeks since Every Day Faith was published! I can hardly believe how fast the time went by. God has been so faithful and so much has happened in the short time that I wanted to take a minute and post about some of it. So if you'll indulge me, read on.

The long awaited box was to be delivered on April 1^st. There was just one problem-we were leaving town for a few days at 1:00pm sharp. I had convinced myself if the UPS truck didn't arrive before we left I would be o-k. Our neighbors would pick up the box and it would sit unopened until we returned. The problem is I tend to be obsessive-compulsive and I'd been waiting on this day for about 14 months. However, God didn't seem to be moving the UPS driver any closer to my house. I tracked the package on-line and even called them once or twice that day…maybe more. Then it was time to pick up my children, so I left the house. On the way to the school, a UPS Driver pulled into a McDonald's and ran inside. I seriously considered pulling behind the truck and rummaging through the packages to see if I could find the box! I'm pretty sure my kids were scared at this point.

Here's what we found waiting on the table when we got home! Love me some Big Brown trucks. I worked at UPS for several years and well, they deliver! Very quickly we celebrated and then I rode in the car for the next several hours just holding my first published Bible study. It's too cool and very humbling.

In the weeks that have passed, two charter groups have finished the study. The feedback and comments have been very encouraging. Two other groups are working on it through the summer. It's truly an honor to hear how God is using the study to change people's lives, all for His glory.

Mother's Day

2011-05-09T10:09:00.000-07:00

My apologies to the faithful few who read this crazy blog. Life has gotten crazy since the release of Every Day Faith last month. I promise to post about the day I got my first copy and the horse race that has been happening since then. But for today, I wanted to share a funny story about my kids in honor of Mother's Day yesterday.

My husband made lunch for us and we ate outside on the deck. It was a beautiful day here yesterday, the birds were chirping and there was a nice cool breeze. He asked the kids what they were most thankful for about their mother. Our nine year old son said that I gave birth to him! Our daughter quickly agreed that was her thought too. That was funny, because his birth compared to his sister's was interesting. Actually they were both interesting. However, being pregnant with my son was a nightmare and I haven't gotten over it yet. I vowed never to be pregnant again. Ever! That's a little dramatic I know, but it probably had something to do with the fact that I was 36 years old and he moved constantly. It was like having a load of clothes stuck on the wash cycle in your stomach!

At 36 weeks pregnant, I begged my doctor to take him out. I literally refused to leave his office until he set a date. The doctor was so kind, but I was miserable. Rationale eventually took over, or at least my husband did and our son was born about 2 weeks later.

My husband also asked the kids what was something that they were glad I had taught them. Our 13 year old daughter said to tie her shoes! I'm still not sure she has this down pat, but at least she tries now. Then our son chimes in. "I'm glad she potty trained me!"

Me too little man, me too! That's all I'm sayin' about that.

I hope you had a great Mother's Day and that you got to laugh with your children.

In Between

2011-04-23T18:17:00.001-07:00

Today is Saturday. This particular one is the day between Good Friday and Easter Sunday. All day I kept thinking what this day must have been like for those who lived during Jesus' ministry on earth. What were they thinking? How did those who walked with Jesus and sat at His feet spend the day in between? Those who knew that He was indeed exactly who He said He was, what must that day have been like for them? Scripture gives us a little insight, but not much. So I wondered today, this day in between.

The crucifixion brings me to my knees. There's no way to grasp such love with my finite mind. I am forever grateful that Jesus died for me. Thankfully, I live knowing that the cross wasn't the end. The grave wasn't the end. Jesus lives. There's no joy like knowing that Jesus lives. My day in between is filled with great expectation of the Easter celebration tomorrow. I hope yours is too. Sunday is coming.

Happy Easter!

You Are More

2011-03-24T08:59:00.000-07:00

I heard this song for the first time this morning. I needed to hear this song. Perhaps you do too. Here is a link to the video and below are the words. Thank you Tenth Avenue North-this is beautiful.

"Therefore , if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation."

2 Corinthians 5:17-19

You Are More

There's a girl in the corner With tear stains on her eyes
From the places she's wandered And the shame she can't hide
She says, "How did I get here? I'm not who I once was.
And I'm crippled by the fear That I've fallen too far to love"
But don't you know who you are, What's been done for you?
Yeah don't you know who you are?

You are more than the choices that you've made,
You are more than the sum of your past mistakes,
You are more than the problems you create, You've been remade.

Well she tries to believe it That she's been given new life
But she can't shake the feeling That it's not true tonight
She knows all the answers And she's rehearsed all the lines
And so she'll try to do better But then she's too weak to try
But don't you know who you are?

You are more than the choices that you've made,
You are more than the sum of your past mistakes,
You are more than the problems you create,
You've been remade.

You are more than the choices that you've made,
You are more than the sum of your past mistakes,
You are more than the problems you create,
You've been remade.

'Cause this is not about what you've done, But what's been done for you.
This is not about where you've been, But where your brokenness brings you to
This is not about what you feel, But what He felt to forgive you,
And what He felt to make you loved.

You are more than the choices that you've made,
You are more than the sum of your past mistakes,
You are more than the problems you create,
You've been remade.

Game Changer

2011-03-21T08:08:00.001-07:00

Last week I wrapped up the study of Jonah by Priscilla Shirer. While reflecting on what I had learned over the past six weeks, it occurred to me that there was one moment that changed my whole perspective on Jonah. I grew up going to church and Jonah was a popular Sunday School lesson. Most of the teaching was about Jonah disobeying God and being swallowed by a big fish. At some point my young mind decided that Jonah was being punished and that's how I've always viewed the story- until now.

During the early part of the study, Priscilla refers to the fish as God's grace. Huh? The game changer-Grace. Grace has been defined as God's unmerited favor. We don't deserve it, yet God lavishly gives it to us. You see God could have left Jonah to go where he wanted to- far away from God's calling. He could have left Jonah in the ocean to drown-no longer useful in God's kingdom. Instead God chose to extend grace and swallow Jonah up in a big fish and bring him back-back to the place of his calling and his usefulness to God.

It's sort of like making a u-turn when we realize we're heading in the wrong direction. We go back to the place that we know is right and start over. Grace allows for the mistakes and sets us back on the right track. It's a game changer.

A Timely Question

2011-03-01T10:20:00.000-08:00

Today I finished a lesson in the Bible study, Jonah, by Priscilla Shirer. At the end of the lesson, Priscilla asked the question, " When you face dire circumstances, do you normally feel hopeful...?" I so did not want to respond...at least not kindly to that question, not today, not this week.

This week, almost without exception, every unexpected phone call or e-mail was bad news. Job changes were coming and they weren't very favorable. Sweet friends, the girlfriends for life kind, are facing tough battles with cancer. Family members are wrestling with painful decisions. While other family members are planning the funeral of their father and grandfather. Frankly it all stinks and I'm not feeling very hopeful. Not today anyway.

Today I want to stuff my face with chocolate, crawl back in bed and wake up next week.

Sorry for the ranting, the hopeful me will be back shortly.

Happy Valentine’s Day

2011-02-14T18:37:00.001-08:00

So how was your Valentine's Day? Did you get some roses? Or some chocolate candy? Or enjoy a special dinner out with your valentine? I did get some roses and candy, but the special dinner just didn't happen. My husband is traveling today, so we tried to go out this weekend. It didn't happen. We did manage to watch the movie RED, so that was some sweet time together. We'll have to have a special dinner out sometime soon.

I decided to make a special meal for our children tonight. Nothing fancy, just spaghetti and meatballs-their favorite. Since Steve is gone, we'd have our dinner, eat some chocolate cake and celebrate our family. The day started off well. Steve got everything ready and headed to the airport. I started on my errands and making a list for the grocery store. Then the school called. The little man was sick.

My daughter had softball practice and the little man was supposed to have baseball practice tonight as well. It became apparent that this day was not going to happen as planned. Normally I would just throw in the towel and say forget it. Not tonight- We had meatball sandwiches and ate leftover cake! We did it together and it was sweet. Our children know that we love each other and that we love them. That's a pretty good Valentine's Day if you ask me.

I hope you know that you are loved too. If no one told you today, then let God tell you. Check out these scripture verses and walk in God's love-the best kind.

Psalm 103:17-18, John 3:16, Jeremiah 31:3, John 15:9, Colossians 3:12

Subtle Differences

2011-02-07T17:57:00.000-08:00

Last night along with millions of other people I watched Super Bowl XLV. I love the whole pre-game show and even the pre-pre-game show with all the back stories on the players. It’s a fun day for me. My husband ran out to get some burgers about 30 minutes before the game started, so I watched the pre-game show by myself. When he returned I said, “I think she sang the national anthem wrong.” It seemed so subtle to me that I wasn’t 100% sure at first. My husband thought I was just caught up in the moment, because I love that stuff. It makes me smile…all the pomp and circumstance before the big game. Unfortunately for Christina Aguilera the whole world knows today that I wasn’t mistaken. She did mess up the words to the national anthem. Honestly I felt bad for her all day today. That’s a lot of pressure and whole lot of people watching you sing live. However, it keeps occurring to me how uncertain I was if the words were wrong.

Last week in my Bible study discussion group we had a similar moment. We were reviewing David’s life and the steps he took that led to him committing adultery and murder. At the end everyone said God was mad at King David. But was he? Is that what it really says in 2 Samuel 11:27?

“After the time of mourning was over, David had her brought to his house, and she became his wife and bore him a son. But the thing David had done displeased the Lord.”

God wasn’t mad at King David. He was displeased with David’s actions. The choices he made displeased God. It’s a subtle, but very important difference to know. I make bad choices all the time that dishonor God. It’s easy to think in the conviction and consequences of those decisions that God doesn’t like me. But that’s not true. God loves me, all the time, no matter what. He loves you too and that doesn’t change.

One Word

2011-01-20T09:54:00.001-08:00

Over the last few weeks I've been reading about people choosing their one word for the year. This idea intrigued me. If you read this post, you'll see I don't necessarily do very well with New Year's resolutions. However, the thought of having one word for the year got my attention. Then like a surprise present I found this website! Check it out, my one word. Click on the media tab and listen to Pastor Mike Ashcraft's sermon at the beginning of this year. He explains the whole thought process behind the one word and gives some great examples from his one word experiences. He talks about the one word being the funnel or scope that you see everything through this year. That's pretty cool and doable for me.

So my one word for this year is Surrender. Surrender is how I will weigh decisions this year regarding family, ministry, health, finances and my relationships. I will be asking myself questions like, "Does this choice surrender my desires to Christ?", or "Am I working this out on my own, or did I surrender to God's timing and plans for me?" I chose "surrender" a couple of weeks ago. Since then I've been praying about a scripture to capture my heart with this word. Philippians 1: 20-21 says,

"For I live in eager expectation and hope that I will never do anything that causes me shame, but that I will always be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past, and that my life will always honor Christ, whether I live or I die. For to me, living is for Christ, and dying is even better. "NLT

Paul is actually speaking these words while in prison, so they seem a little harsh. But in the context of my one word, surrender, I want to be bold this year in my choices. Choosing to surrender and die to my choices, my desires and selfishness will be truly living-living for Christ.

What do you think? What is your one word? Do share!

Snowy Day Reflections

2011-01-10T10:51:00.001-08:00

"Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord will be praised." That's Proverbs 31:30 and it's what was on my mind when I woke up this morning. No kidding.

When I went to bed last night there was a snowy blizzard falling down around us. A rare treat for the South and it was incredibly beautiful to watch. I've never seen that much snow falling that fast. School was already closed for today and we couldn't wait to get up and play outside. There was a cold blanket of white across the yard just waiting to be run through.

We got up, put on our warmest clothes, gloves and boots and headed out to make a snowman. Much to our dismay, the snow that was so inviting last night was now covered with a thin layer of ice. Each step we took was like breaking through glass. We tried to make a snow angel instead. You couldn't move your arms or legs for the ice. We'd been deceived. The snow was pretty to look at, but the ice made it hard to enjoy.

That's a good illustration of what Proverbs 31:30 is talking about. It's easy to look the part, to be fun and inviting. I dress like I'm fine; I smile like I'm fine; heck, I'll even tell you I'm fine. The truth is sometimes I'm not. Life is hard and challenging. But I desperately want to be the woman who fears the Lord. I want to be the woman who follows hard after God, obeys His Word and loves His people. It's a daily choice and it's so much easier than being deceptive and fleeting.

Finishing Well

2011-01-06T09:12:00.001-08:00

Happy 2011! I know I'm a little behind, but I've been mulling this over for awhile now. The New Year always brings about thoughts of commitments, plans and resolutions? Do you make any? Do you keep them?

I used to make resolutions…at least in my mind I did. Very seldom did I keep them though. You know the ones, like lose weight, eat healthier, exercise more, stop yelling, read more, pray often, etc, etc, etc. Somehow I always manage to lose steam with my well intentioned plans for a new year. (Thus my mulling and pondering over the last few days.) How will the year 2011 be different? It's not that I don't want to succeed, but I think my approach has been flawed.

Recently I heard Dennis Miller, the comedian, say, "My resolutions are to get fat and smoke, because I know I can do that." That's funny, but his logic rings true to me. Most all of the resolutions I've made have been things that I could do, at least that's what I thought. The truth is that I've not kept them because I've not been able to exercise control. This year I want it to be different. I want to finish well.

As I've prayed over the New Year this past week, God kept bringing this verse to my mind. Proverbs 15:22 says, "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed." The flaw for me in failing to keep my resolutions has been in not having accountability, not having wise counselors to encourage me. As the verse says, it takes many advisers. This year instead of making my mental list and keeping it to myself, I'm sharing it with my family and prayer team. The key is that these people love God, love me and get where I am. They're not afraid to be honest with me.

If you struggle with keeping your resolutions and finishing well, then find someone to keep you accountable. Ask God to give you someone who loves Him and you unconditionally. Then wait and see who He brings. I met some of my closest companions on the phone, on a ball field and standing in line at a restaurant. You'll be amazed at what happens when you commit your plans to God.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T19:21:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Turners.

Blog Birthday Winners

2010-12-13T12:14:00.000-08:00

So I'm running a little late on this announcement! For those who know me, that's no surprise I'm sure. Congratulations to winners. Here they are:

Forgotten God by Francis Chan-Fran H.
$15 iTunes Card-Ann C.
Potluck Club Book-Rhonda F.

Please e-mail me your address so that I can get these to you quickly at turnerbm@bellsouth.net! Thanks to everyone who participated and signed up to receive updates via e-mail.

Also, later this week I'll be doing my first ever blog interview. I can't wait to tell you all about a new ministry I learned about this past week. Stay tuned and stay in the Word.

Potluck Club Giveaway

2010-12-10T07:50:00.001-08:00

The Potluck Club is a book that a friend gave me to read about a year ago. It stars 6 very different, but very relatable women. They're just like me and you and all of our friends. Their lives are intertwined and they love each other, pray for each other, eat together and get on each other's nerves! Sound familiar? You will read with laughter, a few tears and much anticipation of what will each one do next. I will warn you now, once you start The Potluck Club you won't want to put it down. And you'll want the next one, and the next one after that to read quickly! Each book has a special bonus; they include some of the recipes that are talked about in the chapters. Good stuff!

This is the last giveaway in the blog birthday celebration! Go here and read the last couple of posts to find out how to sign up and what the other gifts are! Also, here is the potluck club website. It has lots of fun stuff about the Potluck Club ladies and the wonderful authors.

Thanks for stopping by and reading my posts for the past few years.

Music Giveaway

2010-12-08T19:59:00.001-08:00

Music is something that makes me smile and I love it! So I put a $15 iTunes card as part of the Blog Birthday celebration give away. Go here to read about the celebration and how to enter to win.

Anyway, my love for music started really early. I grew up with my Daddy playing bluegrass/country music in our house all the time. He taught himself to play the guitar and for most of my middle school/high school years he played in a band. Now before anyone falls off their chair, I am NOT a fan of bluegrass music. However I do have fond memories of writing down words to songs for my Daddy, so he could learn them for his band. Remember cassette tapes? Well I used to have to listen to the songs, hit play, listen again, hit stop, write down the words, hit play, listen again, hit stop, etc, etc, etc. I would do this until I got the whole song down!! It was insane, but it played a big part in teaching me to not just hear music, but really listen to the words.

I got an iPod for Christmas a few years ago and that has been such a blessing. To hear a song now on the radio and be able to get it quickly to listen to again is amazing and a real treat for me. Right now I'm loving Christmas music of course. My favorites are the Mercy Me Christmas cd and Glory in The Highest by Chris Tomlin. What's yours?

Forgotten God

2010-12-07T09:16:00.001-08:00

I read Francis Chan's Forgotten God a few months ago. It's one of those books that has stayed with me. I keep thinking about it, picking it back up and re-reading the parts I highlighted. (Which, by the way, is most of the book!)

The big take away for me in this book was that I need to live like I have Christ's Spirit in me everyday. I know that. I say that. But in looking at how I live, I didn't seem to live like it most of the time. Mainly I live in my own power, my own strength and my own wisdom. Chan says that "when a person is habitually and actively submitted to the Spirit, what comes out of his or her life is the fruit of the Spirit." Galatians 5:22,23 says, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control." Ouch, ouch, ouch!

Opportunities abound daily to display God's Spirit through the fruit. What I realized is that I have to be intentional about seeking the Spirit's leading in these moments. Not just go through the motions because I can. But to really stop and ask God to lead me the way He wants to go. It's a process that happens over and over again. Hopefully I'm getting more consistent each day.

Lastly my favorite part of the book is the stories. After each chapter, Chan gives stories of people who make the choice to live by the Spirit and to seek God's wisdom and direction in their lives. They are powerful examples of what a life lived in the Spirit looks like.

**I'm giving away a copy of this book later this week. Go here to read about how you can get signed up and possibly win. **

Happy Blog Birthday!!

2010-12-05T18:11:00.001-08:00

Today, about three years ago, this blog was born. It was a scary adventure for me to start writing; and even more terrifying to write and share it with you! But God has a way of breaking us in for what He has planned for us. I had no idea when I started this blog that I would shortly be writing a Bible study and publishing it! God did. That's how He works.

So in honor of this bloggy birthday, I thought I'd do a little give away. Over the next few days, I'll blog about three different things that I've enjoyed this year. First will be Francis Chan's book, Forgotten God. Secondly, I'll post about iTunes and give away a $15 iTunes card. And lastly, I'll give away a copy of The Potluck Club book by Linda Evans Shepherd and Eva Marie Everson.

In order to be eligible to win, you need to subscribe to the blog. Just enter your e-mail address in the form on the right hand side of the blog. That way you want have to keep checking for updates, you'll automatically get an e-mail when I update or post. Also, leave me a comment about which item you think you might like and I'll choose a winner for each gift. I'll leave this open until Thursday night and post the winners on Friday morning.

Eat Pray Love

2010-11-30T08:42:00.001-08:00

I watched this movie, Eat Pray Love, with my husband recently. The main character goes on this year long, self-discovery journey and lands in a different location around the world for each part. Neither of us liked it very much, but the scenery was beautiful. It definitely made us want to go to Rome one day.

Real life in our house doesn't allow for a year long journey, but every day does! Every day we have an opportunity to eat, pray and love with the ones we're surrounded by.

Eat-Our daily journey usually culminates at the dinner table each night. Our children are still fairly young, so we can have a family meal almost daily. It's a good time for us and much conversation happens around the table. We've been intentional about making this work, but I know it won't last forever.

Pray-This is probably the weakest link of the three parts for us. We talk about people, things or situations that we need to pray over, but we don't necessarily pray for them together. Prayer is such an intimate thing I think that it is hard sometimes to have others hear us. We feel like we're listening in on a private conversation. Thankfully God hears us, and so we pray individually.

Love-Every day as a work at home Mom, I can love my family quite easily. Whether it's by doing the laundry, cleaning the house or making a good meal, serving my family is loving them. Making our home a warm, safe place that builds their confidence and encourages them in their life is a blessing.

Make every day count. Be intentional about eating, praying and loving with the ones you're surrounded by.

Here and Now...There and Then

2010-11-12T16:17:00.000-08:00

Have you ever done something knowing it would be good for you, but all the while feeling your stomach turn? Your hands are trembling and your palms are sweaty. You keep taking deep breaths hoping that your body will calm down. That was me a couple of months ago as I began leading a group of ladies through "Here and Now...There and Then." It's a lecture series on Revelation by Beth Moore.

Now I know that any time spent in God's Word will be good for me, but I was a wreck with worry over this particular one. My friend, Kelli, and I lead this community group together. We decided last summer that Revelation was what God was calling us to offer this Fall. I knew it was the right thing to do, but I had never led any Bible study on Revelation. Frankly in the 20+ years of teaching and leading Bible studies, I never wanted to. It scared me and made me quite uncomfortable. There was just too much that I didn't know or understand. Too many questions and a lot of "I don't knows."

God had a different plan. We had been praying for God to bring new ladies to our group; ladies who weren't in a Bible study anywhere. And He did, of course He did! I think this was the biggest group we've ever had and I didn't know the majority of them. Funny how God does that. I had seriously sweaty palms now, but we were already committed. So we started and to paraphrase a famous movie line, "He had me at Hello."

Revelation 1:3 says, "Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near."

After reading that verse I was no longer afraid, but ready to receive all that God wanted to teach me and show me through this series. Even if it meant having more "I don't knows" to say, I wanted to read and hear every word of Revelation. So I dug my heels in and went through every chapter. Rest assured I have seriously more questions than answers now. But that's o-k, because I also have a bigger picture of who Jesus is now.

In the final chapter Jesus calls himself the "Alpha and Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End." He began all this and He will one day end all of this. However, what struck me the most was from the beginning of Revelation to the end, He fights for us. Jesus is our Advocate-from creation to the completion of His Kingdom, He's fighting for us. Nothing that happens in my life or yours occurs without His knowledge. He's our one true Advocate, here and now, there and then.

Ever wanted to study Revelation? Go ahead, get your blessing. I got mine!

Escape Clauses

2010-11-08T09:10:00.001-08:00

Wikipedia defines an escape clause as "any clause, term or condition in a contract that allows a party to that contract to avoid having to perform the contract." In other words, it's a way to get out of doing what you promise to do. Some might say a loop hole! God's Word is full of His promises to us. Praying those should be easy. However, lately I find myself praying with escape clauses.

For instance, I'm praying for a friend who has been sick for quite a while. It's nothing terminal, but just nagging and bothersome. I know God is our healer. So I pray and ask God to make her healthy, but then I add, "If you don't, please help her to endure with understanding and grace." I'm praying for another friend whose husband needs a job. I know God is our provider. I ask God to give them a job, but then I add, "If you choose not to, help them to be wise and make good choices." Obviously God does not need my escape clauses, but I pray like He does. Do you? I want to be a prayer who believes God. Period.

In John Ortberg's book If You Want To Walk On Water, You've Got To Get Out Of The Boat, he says "But I want trust to be stronger. I never want the no of fear to trump the yes of faith." That's good stuff! (Take a moment and read it again.) The escape clauses I'm praying are out of fear. Fear that God may not answer the way I want Him to. Fear that I may be embarrassed or that I've somehow failed to have enough faith. God is Faithful and True. I can trust Him and so can you. God help us to pray that way from now on. Amen.

Stubbornness

2010-10-12T08:52:00.001-07:00

"They're not going to listen, so why should I bother?" I've said that statement hundreds of times. It's very frustrating when you try to convince someone of the right thing to do, but they are stubborn. They won't listen. I'll just be wasting my time.

I read a very similar story in the book of Ezekiel this week. God calls Ezekiel in chapter two to speak to the Israelites. The Israelites are described as rebellious, obstinate and stubborn. Ezekiel is not to be afraid of them or what they say. I think this may have very well been Ezekiel's WHY BOTHER? moment. Seriously, he knows they're not going to listen, they're not going to like him and will probably threaten him. The key is found in verse 7. It says, "You must speak my words to them…." God's words are healing, transforming, convincing, freeing and truth. It's not about what Ezekiel would do, but what God wants done.

Left to my own choices, my words would irritate and aggravate a situation also. Today I'm not going to be stubborn either, but do exactly what God asks of me-share His word and His truth.

"It is the same with my word, I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to." Isaiah 55:11NLT

Safe Mode

2010-10-07T07:14:00.000-07:00

Do you replay conversations over in your head? I do, all the time. And I bet if you’re reading this today, you’ve pressed the rewind button a few times yourself.

Usually it’s the conversations that hurt my feelings, cause me to feel insecure or make me mad that I repeat. Like the Aunt who says, “Boy you’ve gained weight! They must feed you well in college.” Sadly I've been out of college for a FEW YEARS and I still remember that! UGH. Or it might be the friend who says, “You can’t do that. You wouldn’t be good at it.” I’ll spend hours trying to “spin” the playback into what I should have said to get back at the other person or how I could have presented myself differently for the outcome I wanted. The problem is they’ve moved on and I’m the one spinning around and around and getting nowhere. I begin to question my self-worth and my abilities.

Recently my computer had the nerve to do this to me. It’s a machine for goodness sakes. However, it decided to not respond the way I wanted it to. I was in the middle of working, typing away and it froze! All of a sudden the keyboard stopped working, the screen turned blue and then these words appeared, “...beginning dump of physical memory.” Seriously, I thought to myself, this cannot be good! I panicked and desperately tried to figure out how to stop it. Eventually I realized that something in one of the links that was loading was tainted, maybe even corrupt. My computer automatically recognized it and in order to maintain the integrity of my work went into a “safe mode.”

Don’t you wish we could do that? When someone hurts our feelings, says something that scars us, or an old painful memory comes back, why can’t we just “dump it”, and go into a “safe mode”. For me, dumping the words isn’t easy. Sometimes every part of me would like to just battle it out. That’s not healthy, and mostly it’s just my stinking pride. But I have figured out ways to go into a safe mode and not do the old drill of rewind, play, rewind, play. My safe mode is found in my relationship with Jesus Christ and knowing who He says I am.

Today if you’re struggling with letting go of some hurtful conversations, find a Bible and look up these verses. Try committing them to memory and replaying them in your head. Your safe mode will quickly become knowing the truth of who you are in Christ.

You were created by God–Psalm 139:13 “Oh yes, you shaped me first inside then out; you formed me in my mother’s womb.” MSG

You are loved by God-Jeremiah 31:3 ‘God told them, “I’ve never quit loving you and never will. Expect love, love and more love.” MSG

You are forgiven-Colossians 1:14 “God has purchased our freedom with his blood and has forgiven all our sins.” NLT

Devotion

2010-09-27T13:52:00.001-07:00

Remember the song, "Hopelessly Devoted to You"? Yes it's the one by Olivia Newton John in the movie Grease- Sandy pining away for Danny. I've been thinking about it a lot lately. O-k, not necessarily the song, but what it really means to be devoted.

In Matthew 4 when Jesus calls the first disciples, they were going about their daily business of fishing. Peter and Andrew were casting their nets fishing. James and John were with their father in a boat. The passage says they immediately left everything and followed Jesus. This always leaves me puzzled and asking several questions. Who took care of their family? What happened to their fishing boats and nets? What did their parents think? Scripture doesn't readily address these thoughts of mine. However, I've come to realize it's about devotion. These men were devoted to Jesus. Jesus didn't want or need their resources or abilities. He wanted their commitment to follow him. Period.

Devotion is defined as profound dedication. It provokes thoughts of intention, passion and pursuit. Jesus wants that kind of relationship with me and with you. I find it easier at times to offer him my abilities, my strengths or even my checkbook. A friend said to me this week, "Sometimes it can be so much easier to do something for Jesus than to be with Jesus." To which I replied, "Amen sister!" We talked about how readily we will take a meal to someone or send them a note, but will be slow to sit with Jesus and pray for them.

Obviously food and words of encouragement are useful tools in God's kingdom. Necessary some might say. The question I've been asking myself is am I devoted to those abilities and resources or to the God who gives them to me?

"You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:13

Look What's Coming Soon!

2010-08-30T10:04:00.001-07:00

In a Pickle!

2010-08-11T09:22:00.001-07:00

That's where I find myself today...in a pickle. You know those times when it's difficult to know what to do. Do I move ahead? Do I go back? Do I stand still?

In softball, base runners can get caught in a pickle too. It's when the runner is stuck between two bases and the defense is running them down, trying to tag them out. It's interesting to watch different players in this situation and how they handle it. Some will plow ahead regardless of how close the tag may be, driven to get to the next base. Others may freeze and be overwhelmed by the defensive players coming at them. The smart players listen to their coach. These are the ones who can block out the crowd noise and focus on the voice that has the big picture. The runner can't necessarily see where the ball is at all times, but the coach can. Listening to the coaches direction will most likely get the player safely on base.

Today this is how God reminded me not to fret over my "pickle". He's asking me not to say, "to heck with it" and plow on, but to listen to His voice. He's asking me to weed out all the noise around me (the opinion of others) and listen to Him. Have you been in a pickle lately? How did you discern what God wanted you to do?

"Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Isaiah 30:21 NIV

Fear of the Lord

2010-08-02T20:16:00.001-07:00

I have some very real fears-drowning, small enclosed spaces, snakes, or anything really that creeps and crawls-just to name a few! These fears can leave me paralyzed or at a minimum cause me to act irrationally. Lately, though I've been thinking about what it means to "fear the Lord". Somehow I don't think my personal reactions are what it means to have a fear of the Lord. This whole thought process began when I read part of Psalm 128.

"How joyful are those who fear the Lord-all who follow his ways! You will enjoy the fruit of your labor. How joyful and prosperous you will be! Your wife will be like a fruitful grapevine, flourishing within your home. Your children will be like vigorous young olive trees as they sit around your table. That is the Lord's blessing for those who fear him." NLT

These verses talk about having a joyful life, fruitful labor, prosperity, a flourishing wife and children around your table. The Lord blesses those who fear Him. Who doesn't want that in their life? I know I want that in our home. It still begs the question though, what does it mean to fear the Lord? I think the answer can be found in the last part of the first sentence-"all who follow his ways!"

We fear God when we obey His commands, when we follow His word and direction. We intentionally choose to live our life according to God's plan and not our own. We will see and experience the blessings God desires for us when we fear Him.

Motivation

2010-07-20T10:06:00.000-07:00

Recently at a swim meet, our son was swimming in a race that was new to him..the IM. For those of you not familiar with swim meets, that meant he would swim all four strokes. Since he's only eight, he usually only swims two laps of the pool using the same stroke. This would be four laps and all four strokes in a particular order. A big deal for him. So all day we reminded him how the IM would work and rehearsed the stroke order.

Feeling like he needed some more motivation, I pulled him aside before the meet started. I promised him he would get $10 if he would finish the IM in 2nd place or better. I don't know about you, but money motivates at our house! So he swam his race, jumped out of the pool and said, "I get $10 right!" He had finished in 2nd, so I said, "Great job and yes you do!" The next child to swim overheard this conversation. So he says to his parents, "Can I get $10 if I swim a good race?" I quickly apologized to the parents and we got out of their way. That's when I heard the father say, "No son, you know what your motivation is."

Normally I would have just forgotten this whole thing. I don't really know these folks well, but I do know that they are godly, servant minded people. But I couldn't forget the Dad's statement. God was getting my attention; this was a teachable moment for me. I began to think about this verse:

"Work hard and cheerfully at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people." Colossians 3:23NLT

Too often my motivation is about external things...money, status, chocolate...you get the picture. But God desires that our motivation be purely about Him and that we teach our kids that same lesson. It's difficult sometimes, but this was such a good, visual reminder for me.

Father God

2010-07-14T09:04:00.000-07:00

Recently as I was praying, it occurred to me that I open my prayer time most often with "Father God". That's how I start talking to Jesus. No one else gets that greeting. No one else can be both Father and God to me.

Don't get me wrong. I have a wonderful earthly Father that I call Daddy. He's great, but he's not Father God and I don't expect him to be. Daddy loves me, cracks me up and most often I'm accused of being just like him.

Father God is both my Daddy and my God. The One that I can run to, sit with and know that I'm loved unconditionally. We can laugh, cry and talk over anything. He's also the One who is all-powerful, all-knowing and is my defender, my advocate. It's an amazing gift to have and I don't ever want it to just roll off my tongue and take it for granted. He is Father God.

How do you greet Him? I'd love to know...

Troubles

2010-07-08T07:22:00.000-07:00

Trouble is defined as a "condition of distress" or "somebody or something upsetting." That well describes the last couple of days around our house. We came home from a long vacation that included a cruise. Our kids were looking forward to some fun things going on this week wrapping up softball and baseball. Life was good. We could spend the last few weeks of summer doing nothing before school starts again.

However, trouble was brewing just under the surface. A staph infection entered into our lives. On the outside it looks like an angry, red knot. But as the doctor informed us, underneath it's eating away the flesh. The infection must be treated and removed or it can spread and be quite dangerous. So hold all the fun and relaxation and bring on the clorox spray and gloves!

At one point I found myself praying, not just for my family, but for this one specific spot that wouldn't drain. It seemed to just keep growing and was quite painful. It may seem silly to some to be that specific in praying, but I'm into the details. Not to mention that the infection needed to be out before it could do anymore damage. Thankfully, God is into the details even more and took care of it!

I read Psalm 120 this morning; specifically verse 1 and 2.

"I took my troubles to the Lord; I cried out to him, and he answered my prayer. Rescue me, O Lord, from liars and from all deceitful people."

As I meditated on those verses this morning, I thought how much the staph infection is like the troubles in our lives. Sometimes we think they're insignificant and harmless; then they fester and grow. Before long they've spread through and infected other areas and other people. We must be diligent to deal with these things specifically. Take them to the Lord as the verse says. He will rescue us and heal us.

A Mighty Fortress

2010-06-15T13:30:00.000-07:00

I completed the NewThru 30 reading plan this past weekend! I hoped to post more about it, but the summer seems to go by with little planning on my part. As a matter of fact, last week I forgot to take my son to baseball camp. A camp we paid for; a camp that lasted all day, 9-3, everyday. Mother of the year...that's me. The vacation can not come soon enough.

Now back to the reading plan wrap up. There is so much I could say about it, but I encourage you to just try it. Click here and just mark the days according to when you start. Honestly I didn't know if I would make it. There were times that I got behind, but those built in grace days were amazing. Personally I just read through the plan for the sake of reading the Bible as my quiet time during these 30 days. Studying the Word is what I love to do, but this time, I just read it. For once, I didn't talk back, but just listened to what God had to say. It was sweet.

Here's a portion of the last day, Revelation 19:11-16:

"Then I saw heaven opened, and a white horse was standing there. Its rider was named Faithful and True, for he judges fairly and wages a righteous war. His eyes were like flames of fire, and on his head were many crowns. A name was written on him that no one understood except himself. He wore a robe dipped in blood, and his title was the Word of God. The armies of heaven, dressed in the finest of pure white linen, followed him on white horses. From his mouth came a sharp sword to strike down the nations. He will rule them with an iron rod. He will release the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty, like juice flowing from a winepress. On his robe at his thigh was written this title: King of all kings and Lord of all lords."

Maybe it's the competitive nature in me, but I found myself cheering. Jesus will return and I love that his title will be the Word of God. I don't fully get all that I read in Revelation...o-k probably most of it...but this was exciting to me. It has caused me to sing this song over and over . And guess what? We sang it Sunday as part of our worship time. I could hardly stand it. Enjoy "A Mighty Fortress" by Christy Nockels.

Church

2010-06-07T16:31:00.000-07:00

This weekend I spent Sunday at a softball tournament with my daughter. As we made the 45 minute drive across town, I couldn't help but notice all the churches that we passed. Some were starting and people were walking in, the parking lots were filling up. I wanted to stop; something inside me wanted to be in church. For various reasons I have not been able to attend church for quite a few weeks. That's not normal for me. I'm a people person. I want to worship corporately. I want to hear my pastor. As we continued to drive to the park, my daughter started asking questions about the different churches that we passed. She was curious about what they believed and how there services might be different from our church. It was a great conversation to have with a twelve year old and it settled me emotionally.

Today as I thought about it some more, my mind went back to when I was 16 years old. Part of my Sunday mornings included going to pick up my Great Grandmother for church. She would always be waiting on the front porch, with her purse and Bible in hand. No matter how late I was, she always had a smile on her face and was ready to go. That's how I want to be remembered...I hope this feeling doesn't fade.

I Can't Help It!

2010-05-26T16:07:00.000-07:00

I can't help it! Have you ever said that? I have and certainly my children have also. Usually it's in reference to getting caught doing something that they shouldn't be doing. However, I thought of it differently this week as I read through the Book of Mark.

First of all, I have a new found love for this particular book in the Bible. It seems that John Mark, the author of the gospel, enjoys stories. So do I. Reading the book straight through made me realize that it is filled with stories about Jesus life here on Earth. Little vignettes of Jesus interacting with the disciples, with his family, with crowds and with individuals can be found in chapter after chapter.

In chapter 3, Jesus casts out evil spirits and commands the spirits not to reveal who he was. Later in chapter 7 Jesus is with another crowd and they ask Him to heal a deaf man with a speech impediment. Jesus heals the man and then commands the crowd not to tell anyone! Huh? Verse 36 says, "...but the more He told them not to, the more they spread the news." They disobeyed Jesus. I think they couldn't help it.

It makes me wonder how often do I feel that blessed by God that I can't help telling someone about Him? Definitely not often enough.

An Opportunity

2010-05-21T07:57:00.000-07:00

My reading plan is taking me chronologically through the New Testament and I'm in Acts now. I have a New Living Translation Bible that I often read for the simple pleasure of hearing God's voice and that's the one I'm using for this plan.

Back to the opportunity...Chapters 3 and 4 of Acts are some of my favorite stories in the Bible. Peter and John are entering the temple and a cripple man asks them for money. They don't have any money, so they heal the man. The man then goes leaping and praising God into the Temple with Peter and John. All the people are amazed and stand watching him next to Peter and John. Chapter 3, verse 12 says, "Peter saw his opportunity and addressed the crowd." Boldly Peter tells them the truth-this man's faith in Jesus, the one they crucified, healed him. Peter doesn't concern himself with being politically correct, but seizes the opportunity to proclaim the goodness and mercy of Jesus.

For the past week I've had the opportunity to watch a lot of television. I had surgery a week ago and am confined to doing basically nothing for a couple of weeks. So I read, sleep, eat and watch t.v.! The national news has always been something I keep up with and I've pretty much overdosed on it this week. It's been amazing to watch people be so careful, no matter what the topic or their opinion. Political correctness is at an all time high and the truth of one's convictions seems to have sufferred. May it not be so with us as believers.

May we always proclaim the truth of God's Word and "see" the opportunities that God allows us to share His goodness and mercy. Matthew 24:14 says, "Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never disappear." Our opportunities may not come on a national news program. They may be sitting at our kitchen table or standing in line at the grocery store. Where ever God allows, don't miss the opportunity. Be ready. Stay in the Word.

Temptations

2010-05-17T16:01:00.000-07:00

I started the New Thru 30 reading plan today! It's a 30 day reading plan through the New Testament and you can see it here. Today's reading was in Matthew and covered the genealogy of Jesus, His birth, the calling of the disciples, John the Baptist and many portions of Jesus' teaching and healing. My favorite part today was in reading Matthew chapter 4 where Jesus is being tempted by Satan. It occurred to me that these temptations are ones that we face every day. Don't get me wrong; I'm not saying that we are all led by the Spirit every day to be tempted by Satan. What I am saying is that we face temptations daily and if we're not aware we can be tripped up.

For instance Satan first tempted Jesus with food. Jesus had been fasting 40 days and nights, so He was obviously hungry and weak. How often are we tempted by things when we're exhausted? Maybe we've had a long day and we're stressed out and our response to something is less than righteous. I know if I've gone a long time without food, than I can be less than nice! Jesus responded with God's Word.

Secondly, Satan tempted Jesus to abuse His power. If you have influence over another person, than you're a leader. Whether you're a parent, a manager or coordinator, there's a potential to misuse that influence to get what we want. We must guard against our own desires and lead others the way that Jesus would. Jesus again responded with God's Word.

Lastly, Satan tempted Jesus with greed. This one always makes me chuckle because in verse 9 Satan says, "I will give it all to you, if you will kneel down and worship me." (NLT) Jesus knew it was all His already, but He didn't worship the stuff. Neither should we. Living in such a materialistic world, we can be consumed with having it all. Daily we need to lay down our desires for the one desire to follow Christ and glorify Him.

We can overcome these temptations, just as Jesus did, by responding with God's Word. Keep reading and meditating on God's Word. When you need it, it will be there to help you.

Let me know if you're reading along. I'd love to hear what passages stuck out to you today.

New Thru 30

2010-05-10T12:22:00.000-07:00

New Thru 30 is a site I came across a few months ago...probably via somebody else's blog! It is a 30 day reading plan for the New Testament, done chronologically. I bookmarked it and thought I really want to do that some time. Well, it's seems that now is the perfect time. So starting next Monday, May 17th, I'll be reading through the New Testament in 30 days following their plan. (The plan is from Elevation Church in Charlotte, NC and they did it back in January.) Click on the reading plan button and you'll see the schedule. I'm just changing the dates to fit my start and I especially love that there are "Grace Days", so if I get behind, I can catch up.

If you want to join me, just leave me a comment. I'd love to pray for you as we go on this journey. My goal is to post at least once a week about what we're reading and hopefully learn from each other.

And because it's Monday, we need a song. This one is perfect...Word of God Speak by Mercy Me. Enjoy.

You are the Light

2010-05-03T08:25:00.000-07:00

I first heard this song a couple of months ago. It's one that just sticks in your mind and you sing it all the time...or at least I do. This weekend we sang it at church and I think I wept through the whole thing. The song says, "You are the Light, the light of the world, And we shine you Lord." Unfortunately I had a moment (o-k maybe a few) this weekend where that wasn't true for me.

Saturday my daughter played in a softball game. Their team has not done well this season. But this day they were playing great and were well on their way to a victory. Talk of an ice cream celebration was in progress. Unfortunately in the last inning things fell apart. During the last play, the ball was hit into right field and our player held the ball. The runner on third stole home. Game Over. We lost. B.R.U.T.A.L.

I am a very competitive soul and nothing about shining Christ entered my mind. My daughter and I headed to the car and unleashed on each other about how pathetic this whole thing was. She's about as competitive as her mother...have mercy!

Fast forward to Sunday morning. Worship was so great at church and then we start singing this song..."We are the people of God, The sons and daughters of love, Forgiven, Restored and Redeemed, Living our lives to the praise of our King". I could barely breath, much less sing. God was so sweet to remind me that my life is to shine for Him-always. You see as I tried to pull myself together, God also reminded me of a conversation I had Friday morning with my daughter. We were driving to school and discussing all things softball. Here's what I said to her:

"Hannah at the end of the day, it's a game. It's just a game. Our goal is to lead people to Jesus, not to us."

You should probably pray for my daughter because her Moma has quite a few people living in her head sometimes. This weekend was no exception. Thankfully we are forgiven, restored and redeemed.

Do the Next Thing

2010-04-29T07:56:00.001-07:00

This past weekend I had the privilege of hearing Susan Norris speak to a group of fellow speakers and writers. While discussing the growth of her ministry, she commented that her responsibility is to do the next thing and not get hung up on the future or what might happen next. That's God's deal not ours. It struck a cord with me.

I tend to be analytical at heart. I'll run all the scenarios of a situation, any possible outcomes and analyze the "what ifs". It can leave me stuck for a while before making a move. However, I am learning that what Susan shared is true. I need to do the next thing. If I want to continue growing closer to my Savior, then I need to keep moving toward Him. In the Bible when Peter sees Jesus walking on the water, he didn't ponder what would happen when he stepped out of the boat. He didn't consider if he would sink; Peter just stepped out toward Jesus. That one step makes Peter the only other person to have walked on water! Amazing.

In today's "My Utmost for His Highest", Oswald Chambers calls this the graciousness of uncertainty. He says, "We are uncertain of the next step, but we are certain of God. Immediately we abandon to God, and do the duty that lies nearest, He packs our life with suprises all the time." I enjoy a good suprise. What about you?

All of Creation

2010-04-26T16:42:00.000-07:00

This weekend I spent a lot of time in church..all day Saturday and a good portion of Sunday. It was such a great time of worshipping God, hearing His Word and being in fellowship with other believers. On Saturday I attended the live broadcast of Beth Moore's "So Long Insecurity" here in metro Atlanta along with 9,000 or so of my not so close friends! It was a sea of women, capri pants and cute sandals. Our group decided to go up to the balcony and we sat in the next to last row from the top, directly centered over the stage. We could watch the action in front of us or on two huge screens; either way it was great.

Travis Cottrell was there to lead us in worship. Before he began, he talked about how easy it would be to feel lost in the sea of people gathered that day. The numbers were over 300,000 including the simulcast sites for the event. That's huge by anybody's standards and could have been daunting. But Travis reminded us that we are not lost on God in this sea of people. He's very aware of each of us, individually. And only we can sing of our Redeemer. No one else can praise Him for us; only we can do that.

God spoke powerfully to me in that moment...all the way in the nose bleed section. The reason He had me there was not to "see" anyone, but to "hear" His word for me. And He, God, wanted to hear my voice, my praises. So I abandoned myself to worship my Redeemer, my Creator and it was an amazing day.

Fast forward to Sunday morning at my church. My husband was running sound in our True North auditorium where we have live worship and watch the pastor on a screen. I was running a little later than usual and the seats were filling up. So I decided to sit in the back row, the last seat in the far right corner. The worship began and although there were only a couple hundred people there, the feeling was the same as on Saturday. We were there to worship our Creator, our Savior, our Redeemer. No one else could do that for us. It was a sweet moment and I believe a sweet sound to our Lord.

If you're having a hard time believing that God is keenly aware of all that you are and all that concerns you, Psalm 139 gives us great detail about how intimately God is involved in our lives. Even before we knew we would be, God did. Read it, meditate on it. Commit the psalm to memory so that you don't forget. Pray it back to Him; He wants to hear your voice.

And what does all this have to do with music Monday? I'm glad you asked! This morning as I got in my car, All of Creation by Mercy Me came on the radio immediately. It is an amazing worship song that reminds us of all that God has done for us. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. While you're at it, sing it to God-praise your Redeemer.

Jesus Calling

2010-04-19T07:15:00.000-07:00

Jesus Calling by 33 Miles is one of my husband's new favorite songs. Mine too. This weekend we heard a great sermon about making Jesus part of your every day life. I think the song and the sermon compliment each other. Too many times we can wander through our life and forget that as believers Jesus is with us. He's right in the midst of where ever we are and whatever we're going through. I don't need to invite Him in to my stuff, He's there. I need to be asking for insight, for perspective, for wisdom to see how He's working.

Secondly when I don't acknowledge Jesus' presence, I miss Him. Not just what He's doing, but my heart misses Him. I miss the time of His encouragement, His mercy, His love, His grace. If that sounds odd to you, then I challenge you to make a habit of spending time with God every day. See what happens when you miss a day...as the song says, "Can you hear Jesus calling?" I can.

Pure

2010-03-29T13:15:00.000-07:00

This Music Monday post is more about the artist than the particular song. Pure is by Kari Jobe and I first heard her on Life Today singing it. I was immediately engaged to worship with her before she even sang a note. The purity (no pun intended) of her worship is amazing. Some of you may already know her and her music, but I'm just getting there and am loving it. I'm looking forward to enjoying more of her music real soon.

Lead Me to the Cross

2010-03-22T14:50:00.000-07:00

This song has been on my mind and my heart for a few weeks. If I'm not singing it to myself, I'm hearing it in the car. It has become a prayer for me. Lead Me To the Cross is a strong reminder that whatever we're dealing with, whatever we need to let go of, whatever we need to be delivered from is worth it. Jesus hung on a cross to cover these things, all of them.

I realize that it's easier said than done sometimes. We get scared. We don't want anyone to know. We can't see how it will work out, but God can and will help. He will not embarass us. In fact the verses below say, He will honor us. Trust Him.

"So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and in his good time he will honor you. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about what happens to you." 1 Peter 5:6,7 NLT

Roller Coaster Ride

2010-03-15T12:10:00.001-07:00

**This post is part of Rachel Olsen's Devotional Carnival** Be sure to check out all the other posts about pleasing God. **

This past week has been full of emotions. It's felt much like riding a roller coaster for me. Some of you may enjoy that sort of ride, but I really don't. I much prefer the gentler, predictable carousel ride. However this week would include the thrills of birthday celebrations and the company of good friends, the twists of missed deadlines and lack of sleep, and the stomach churning drops of inconclusive test results and the funeral of one lost way too soon. Typically this ride would make me want to crawl in bed and not come out for a few days. God, though, had been preparing me.

"For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline." 2 Timothy 1:7NIV

During the previous week, I had heard two different teachings on this verse. So I knew God was getting my attention for something. One teacher in particular talked about being stable minded. The focus was on facing life, whatever the circumstances, choosing to trust God and believe Him for what is best. Letting our response be to trust God, not the circumstances. When our flesh wants to be fretful, worried or anxious, to realize that we have a spirit of power, love and self-discipline. The ability to walk through these events differently is possible. Stable became my word of the week. When I would feel myself start to respond in a way that wouldn't please God, I would say it out loud-STABLE. I am choosing to trust God and be stable minded through this situation. Stable is defined as "not likely to change or move, steady, not excitable or given to irrational behavior." Maybe saying it out loud, o-k yelling it at times, is a little irrational, but you get the point! Sometimes we need to shake ourselves and be reminded that we do indeed have a spirit of power, love and self-discipline with us.

What about you? How do you handle those days or weeks with unexpected twists and turns?

Kid Favorite

2010-03-08T17:55:00.000-08:00

Boomin' by Toby Mac-- Now that's a Music Monday song! My kids love this song and it makes me smile to see them in the back seat with their heads bobbing singing some Toby Mac!

Seriously, I was just playing it on my laptop and my son ran down the hall and said, "Mom you have to listen to the end. It's like an opera; so cool!" He's eight...that's cool to me.
Enjoy.

Temporary Home

2010-03-01T17:17:00.000-08:00

Temporary Home by Carrie Underwood is one of my favorites by her. Besides the fact that her voice is amazing, the message in the song is so powerful. (She gives some insight on the story and the writing of the song here. )

Sometimes when I hear it, it makes me sad. I think about my friends in Puerto Rico that I met on a mission trip. Many of them are in the last place they'll live on this Earth. It's not a personal home but a women's shelter. Having an eternal perspective, though, can bring much hope in what may seem hopeless right now.

Sometimes when I hear it, I raise my hands and say Praise God! It's so amazing to think about the generosity and grace of God and how much more He has for us in eternity. It reminds me not to hold tightly to the fragile things of this world, but to cling to my Rock, my God. This stuff here-it really is just temporary.

Trust and Obey

2010-02-27T09:13:00.001-08:00

I've been studying the life of Abraham and specifically God's covenant with him. In Genesis 15 God promises Abram that he will have an heir and his descendants will be as numerous as the stars. Again in Genesis 17 God confirms this covenant and changes Abram's name to Abraham, father of many. Years go by before Isaac, Abraham's son, is actually born. Then when Isaac is still a boy, God asked Abraham to sacrifice him as a burnt offering. Abraham obeys.

The story is found in Genesis 22. Abraham and Isaac are going to make the sacrifice, carrying the wood, fire and a knife. Ironically we only see Isaac ask one question during their walk up the mountain. Isaac asks, "Where is the lamb for the burnt offering?" Abraham assures him that God himself will provide the lamb. So we know now that Isaac doesn't have a clue that he's the sacrifice; he believes his father. Abraham sets up the altar, binds Isaac up and lays him on it. Just as he is about to slay Isaac, an angel of the Lord stops him. Abraham is blessed because he fears the Lord; he was willing to give up his own son.

This whole story makes me ask a lot of questions. Like how do you find the strength to walk up a mountain knowing that you're going to sacrifice your son, the only son you have? How does Abraham reconcile this request with God's promise that he will have numerous descendants? How does Isaac feel when he realizes he's the burnt offering? What must he think when Abraham, his father, is about to kill him? Further when Isaac hears the angel commend Abraham's obedience, what must that do for his faith?

The answer for Abraham is found in the beginning of this story. Genesis 15:6 says, "Abram believed the Lord, and He credited it to him as righteousness." You see Abraham knew what God promised- numerous descendants. He didn't know how and surely it didn't make sense that his one son would be taken away. But he believed God.

We're often asked to make sacrifices; granted it's usually on a much smaller scale! Maybe it's time, resources or simply the way we thought something should work out. The question is do we believe God? Do we trust Him enough to gather our supplies, walk the path, and leave the rest to Him?

What Do I Know of Holy

2010-02-22T14:53:00.001-08:00

Here's Music Monday introducing "What Do I Know of Holy" by Addison Road. My husband introduced me to this song a couple of months ago. I'm still not sure that I've heard it on the radio, but we got the cd and it's being played often in my car and on my ipod. I love the words and the arrangement-it's just beautiful. The whole cd for that matter is really good.

Lately this song has caused me to think about how we can get into a mode of just doing this thing called life and forget about God. Especially when life is going well, we may tend to live like we think that it's our ability or our intelligence that's at work. Recently I've also had tough conversations about how life isn't going quite so well and the wonder of what God is up to. Either way the focus gets off of who God is and on to what we're doing.

This song is a great reminder that we have a God who is very powerful, ever present, mighty and just. His grace and mercy are matchless. I'm not sure how much I know about holy. It probably barely scratches the surface. But I do know the One who is Holy and that's worth remembering every day. What do you think?

Crazy Love

2010-02-19T10:27:00.001-08:00

I started reading Crazy Love by Francis Chan about two months ago. It was so good to me, that I wouldn't read it unless I could fully concentrate and not be interrupted. I recently finished it, and if you haven't read it, you should. (Of course, that's just my opinion and worth nothing.)

However, I wish I could show you my copy. Pages are marked up and written all over with my thoughts about what Mr. Chan says and my personal convictions. His writing was so fresh, and raw that I found myself not wanting to finish the book. It is genuine and in your face about how we, as Christians, should be living our lives.

This post was going to include some of my favorite quotes from the book that would hopefully entice you to read it also. But there's no way I can narrow it down and not just re-publish his book! So in Francis Chan's own words, here's what you'll find in the preface (yes even the preface is that good) on page 21:

"This book is written for those who want more Jesus. It is for those who are bored with what American christianity offers. It is for those who don't want to plateau, those who would rather die before their convictions do."

I love that he says "more Jesus", and not more of, or more from. Simply more Jesus. If that describes you, go get it. And if you've already read it, please let me know your favorite part(s).

PS...no one asked me to talk about this book, I just wanted to, because I really enjoyed reading it. For me, that's good, because I seriously do not read a lot of books, outside of the BIBLE!

Emanuel (Hallowed Manger Ground)

2010-02-15T16:31:00.000-08:00

I heard this song , Emanuel (Hallowed Manger Ground)for the first time in mid-December at Chris Tomlin's Glory In The Highest Tour. I remember thinking as he sang that this should be in hymnals! It is such a beautiful reminder of our Emanuel-God with us. I know this was part of his Christmas cd, but I listen to it all the time. This particular you tube version has a great slide show with it also. Enjoy.

Emanuel (Hallowed Manger Ground) by Chris Tomlin

What hope we hold this starlit night
A King is born in Bethlehem
Our journey long, we seek the light
That leads to the hallowed manger ground

What fear we felt in the silent age
Four hundred years can He be found
But broken by a baby's cry
Rejoice in the hallowed manger ground

Emmanuel, Emmanuel
God incarnate here to dwell
Emmanuel, Emmanuel
Praise His name Emmanuel

The son of God, here, born to bleed
A crown of thorns would pierce His brow
And we beheld this offering
Exalted now the King of kings
Praise God for the hallowed manger ground

Emmanuel, Emmanuel
God incarnate here to dwell
Emmanuel, Emmanuel

Praise His name Emmanuel
Praise His name Emmanuel
Oh, praise His name Emmanuel

When the Saints Go Marching In

2010-02-09T09:58:00.000-08:00

Music Monday turned into Tuesday this week...because the Saints won the Super Bowl and we're still recovering in the Turner house! We are big fans and it was such a thrill to see them finally win. Congratulations Saints...enjoy your parade.

So in honor of the XLIV Super Bowl Champs, the New Orleans Saints, here's Louis Armstrong. This is such a jazzy and swinging version of "When the Saints go Marching in", I love it. The lady in the background makes me smile too! Enjoy.

Leap of Faith

2010-02-04T07:39:00.000-08:00

This week I took a leap of faith. It would be nice to say right here that I did it without fear and trembling, but that would be a lie. However, I knew in my heart that this was God's direction and not mine.

A few years ago, I wrote a Bible Study and led it to a couple of women's small groups. Everything went well and I received some great feedback. Then I put it on a shelf...for a couple of years. This past summer the door opened for me to submit a proposal of the study to four different publishers. So I dusted it off and got everything ready. Two of the publishers took my proposal; I couldn't believe it. The representatives gave me some encouraging feedback as well. Unfortunately neither of them decided to pursue publishing the study, so I thought I'd put it back on a shelf. But God had a different plan.

This week I signed an agreement to self-publish the study and it will be out this Fall! I'm thrilled, nervous and overwhelmed by God's grace through this process. It would have been so easy to just remain in my comfort zone and lead the study as opportunities came. However, at every turn over the last few months, God has said to me "Believe, Have Faith, Keep Moving." No I've not heard an audible voice, at least not God's. But through sermons, teachings and my own personal time with Him, He has spoken clearly. The message has been consistent, whether it's been through my pastor, a favorite teacher, a sweet friend or a song I hear. Keep moving, trust me, don't stop. So as my pastor said recently, I stepped on the gas of my faith...probably with my eyes closed, but I'm moving forward!

Be encouraged today. Trust God and move forward if you are hearing the same message consistently. He's speaking!

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

Music Mondays

2010-02-01T09:45:00.001-08:00

What's "Music Mondays"? I'm glad you asked! It's a new post I hope to accomplish each week sharing a song or lyric that I enjoy. I love music and especially music that makes me think about God in a different way or encourages me to walk closer with Him. So I'm starting a new thing here on the blog…every Monday I'll post about a song or lyric that I've heard that will hopefully inspire you and help make your Monday a little bit brighter.

Why Monday? Monday's were always my least favorite day when I worked outside of the home and I needed a little inspiration to get going. The traffic always seemed worse, the kids didn't want to get going and neither did I. Most folks would take Friday's off; not me. I wanted to be off on Mondays, and besides Monday starts with an M and so does Music!! It's shallow I know, but after all it is a Monday people! So here goes…..

I Desire by Natalie Grant

This is an older song, from her Deeper Life cd. If you've never heard this song, click here. (Scratch that, I can't find a full recording of it on the web! Here's a 30 second one of the chorus...sorry.) First, Natalie's voice is a gift, a real treasure. I'm pretty sure she got double-dipped during her vocal chords creation, because she sounds angelic! The song seems to be written as a prayer and I often use it as one. Whenever I'm walking around the neighborhood or on my treadmill, it's always one of the songs I listen to and pray back to God.

My favorite line in the song says, "so fill me with a fire, that burns away my doubts and all my fears, into a place where You are all I hear". Doubt and fear can be paralyzing at times, causing us to question if we hear God at all. But when our passion is to know Christ, they don't have a hold on us. Ask God to fill you with a fire, a passion, that burns away anything that keeps you from Him. Below are the lyrics to the whole song.

I Desire by Natalie Grant

Here in this world that you've designed
From the rolling plains to the oceans
Deep and wide
Where are the words that can say what's
In my heart
All that I am is amazed by who you are

Chorus:
The one thing I desire
Is just to know you more
To live a life that moves and breathes
And loves to bring you joy
So fill me with a fire
That burns away my doubts and all my fears
Into a place where you are all I hear
It's the one thing I desire
To do what you require
Is the one thing I desire

To love when I'd rather turn away
To give when I'm more resigned to take
To reach out a hand to someone who
Feels alone
The way you reached for me
When there seemed to be no hope

I'll live my life serving Christ
Offering a sacrifice of praise

Full Armor

2010-01-22T06:48:00.001-08:00

Ephesians 6:13-18 talks about the armor of God, specifically putting on the FULL armor of God. I wonder how often do we face a day without putting it on-the complete armor of God?

How often do we have meltdowns in traffic, because we didn't put on our gospel of peace? How often do we get hurt feelings because we didn't put on the belt of truth? How often do we get worried and upset over troubling news because we didn't pick up our shield of faith? These moments in our everyday lives would be so much less disturbing if we would fully suit up in God's armor! Peace would rule in our hearts, truth would ring in our minds and our thoughts would be centered on God's ability and not ours. Every day, let's be intentional about dressing in the full armor of God.

Don't leave home without it!

"Therefore put on the fill armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. " Ephesians 6:13-18NIV

What Do They Notice?

2010-01-14T10:05:00.000-08:00

Over the holidays my son noticed something similar among the Turner family. He says to me, "Mom, all the Turners have the same lips! I can't believe no one ever noticed." (He's seven and very observant!) He and his sister both have lips like their father and grandmother. Then as he looked around the room, he said, "Mom, you're a Turner and you don't have the same lips as us. Why not?" That brought on a long discussion about him having features and traits from me and his Dad, and how we got ours from our parents, and they got theirs from their parents and so on and so on. It got me to thinking.

My first thought was what do my children notice about me spiritually? Do they think I look like my heavenly Father? Do I have mannerisms or traits that reflect that I am a child of God? I hope so. Without a doubt, I mess up...way too often. However, it is my desire that they know God-that He is faithful, that He is trustworthy. And as we always tell them-No one loves them like Jesus does.

Secondly, I wondered if those who don't know Christ notice Christ in me? How is my life a portrait of God's love, grace and mercy? Does my speech, attitude and service look like their Savior's? No doubt we're all being noticed. Whether it's in our homes, communities or workplaces, we're being noticed. The question is what are they seeing?

It may seem unrealistic to you that we must always reflect Jesus. And if left to ourselves and our own abilities, it would be impossible. Thankfully, Jesus knew that. So he left us the Holy Spirit-the one who works in us and through us to glorify Jesus.

May our lives reflect Him more and more everyday.

Now, the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, he gives freedom. And all of us have had that veil removed so that we can be mirrors that brightly reflect the glory of the Lord. And as the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him and reflect his glory even more. 2 Corinthians 3:17,18

Truth Prevails

2010-01-06T08:25:00.001-08:00

Wrapping up 2009 and moving into 2010, I had a realization that the holidays were unpleasant for many family members and friends. Saying "Merry Christmas" or "Happy New Year" was really awkward way too many times. Jobs were being lost, incomes were falling, families were separated, loved ones were gone and the pain and sadness was palpable. Other years have definitely had their tough times, but this season I was acutely aware and in moments overwhelmed by it all. At one point, I begged God for wisdom, for some words that would encourage and bring His peace. His response-Truth prevails.

Honestly I didn't know if it was helpful or not, but I said it. And I've continued to say it and hide it in my heart. Below are some verses that I looked up this week about truth. They have helped to solidify peace in my heart and mind for those that I love. Truth does indeed prevail.

"The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth." Psalm 145:18

"Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name." Psalm 86:11

"Jesus answered," I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6

Merry Christmas Everyone

2009-12-24T19:31:00.001-08:00

I spent a good portion of this past week praying with family and friends who are all in difficult circumstances this Christmas. Financial struggles, relationship issues, health concerns and a host of other prayers were lifted high to our Savior this week. On a particularly hard day, I decided to venture out on an errand and hopefully gain a fresh perspective. It was windy, rainy and cold. As I pulled into a parking spot, I wondered if my trip was really necessary. People were running with their carts and bags getting soaked. Surely this could wait another day. Then it happened…I watched a man jump out of his car, take his umbrella and run over to a lady pushing her cart through the rain with all her purchases. He walked all the way to the end of the lot, holding his umbrella over her, to keep her from getting drenched! It made me smile and I'm sure it did the lady too.

As I got back home, I thanked God for the fresh perspective. He provides what we need, when we need it. He's always with us.

"…And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace…." (Isaiah 9:6b)

My prayer for you this Christmas and in the New Year is that you see Jesus. When you need wisdom or encouragement, He is your Counselor. When you need an advocate, someone in your corner, He is your Mighty God. When you need to be loved and comforted, He is your Father. And when you need to be settled and secure, He is your Prince of Peace. Look for Him, Your Emmanuel, He is with you.

For God so loved...

2009-12-17T13:47:00.001-08:00

John 3:16-I've known this verse for as long as I can remember. If you grew up in church or have been around it for any time, you probably have it memorized also. Say it with me...

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."

As I looked at the verse again this week, it occurred to me that I've always thought of it in light of Jesus' crucifixon-He gave His life for me and for you. That's a true statement. However, the giving of His life began when Jesus took on flesh and entered this world.

And the reason He did was because He loves us. I'm so thankful that in my quest to remember this Christmas season why He came, that Jesus gave me fresh perspective straight from His word! How sweet is that? Ask Him and He'll do the same for you!

More on the reason He came…

2009-12-08T09:44:00.001-08:00

In my quest to remember and reflect on why Jesus came this season, I came across some verses in Titus 2. Actually I read these a week ago, but posting took a back seat to life!! The verses are 11-14 and are in the New Living Translation:

"For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed. He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds."

Jesus came to reveal His grace to all people. Ephesians 2:8, 9 teaches us that it is by this grace that we are saved. Jesus came to save us and it's only by His grace, not by anything that we do. The passage goes on to tell us that our role as believers while we live in this world is to be wise, righteous and devoted to God, hopeful of Christ's return.

As we celebrate the birth of Christ, the righteousness part of how we are to live has spoken boldly to me. Over the last week, I've truly been dismayed at the very critical nature of believers regarding stories in the media…namely Tiger Woods and Tim Tebow. I do not know either of these men and surely they don't need me to defend them. But neither do they need those of us called to a higher standard to belittle them. As believers looking forward with hope to Christ's return, our words and deeds must be about encouraging His kingdom, not tearing it down. I can't imagine how much God's heart broke over some of the blogs and facebook comments that were posted regarding these stories. As we look for more of Christ during this Christmas season, may we also be more Christ-like. And when we're tempted to be otherwise, let's remember that Christ gave his life so that we could be.

The Reason He Came

2009-12-01T10:45:00.000-08:00

It's December 1st and this time of year can bring about much anxiety for me. I get overwhelmed by all the additional activities that the holiday season brings. School parties, brunches, visits to the mall, baking, traveling, more visits to the mall and the list just goes on. Too often I have lots of plans and ideas that go undone, because there's just not enough time! This year however, I've decided to try something different. I'm keeping all the peripheral stuff simple and spending some time each day in December remembering and reflecting on why Jesus came.

This morning I began my pursuit by reading 1 Timothy chapter 1. Verse 15 says,

"Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners-"

Jesus came to save us. He was born into this world to save us. It's the reason He came and the greatest gift we can ever accept. In what ways will you remember the reason Jesus came this season?

The Story of Jesus

2009-11-23T17:23:00.001-08:00

This week we wrapped up Every Day Faith with a look at the life of Jesus. I realize that the whole Bible is part of His story, but we took a brief look at some moments He spent on Earth. The first day we studied Matthew 4:1-11 where Jesus is in the desert being tempted by Satan. Jesus, even after fasting 40 days and nights, wielded the most powerful weapon He had-His Word. It can be so easy to just give in to temptations when we're tired or aggravated. However, if we will wield God's word in those moments, then our lives will probably be a lot less stressful.

The next day we looked at Matthew 26:36-46 where Jesus is in the Garden of Gethsemane. This is such a powerful and moving portion of scripture. It is hard to picture Jesus in this moment. None the less, we see Him wrestling in prayer over His imminent death. The magnitude of this moment seems to be lost on the disciples. They're sleeping. In verse 41 Jesus tells them to watch and pray so that they will not fall into temptation. The power in praying, of taking our concerns to God, is averting those things that might cause us to stumble.

On the third day we focused on Jesus and the woman at the well. In John 4:7-26, we saw how Jesus went against the customs and spoke with the Samaritan woman. At first the conversation is focused on the physical need for water, but moves to the more important spiritual need for living water. It always seemed a bit odd to me that Jesus asked her about her husband in the middle of this dialogue. This time it struck me that Jesus, ever full of grace and mercy, was touching on the one thing that she probably thought made her unworthy of living water.

Next we studied John 13:1-17 where Jesus is in the Upper Room and washes the disciple's feet. The example Jesus sets is so humbling and powerful. He illustrates fully that serving is the greatest part of leadership. No matter what our role is, we should not think ourselves better than another.

Finally we finished the week with Matthew 28:16-20. Jesus is in Galilee and gives the "Great Commission." The command is to go and make disciples, baptize them and teach them. As believers, it is our command too. Spreading the love and hope of Jesus is a privilege. May we all go with the knowledge that Jesus is ever with us.

The story of Joseph

2009-11-18T17:00:00.001-08:00

Reading and studying the story of Joseph's life was exhausting! His life seemed to follow one major disaster after another. If you read through chapters 37 to 50 in Genesis, you'll see what I mean. Joseph encountered many challenges including living with brothers who hated him, sold him into slavery and pretended he was dead. Then Joseph was wrongfully accused by his master's wife and thrown in jail. And finally, he was forgotten by the friends he made in jail for two years.

The good news is that wherever Joseph landed, he found favor. In Genesis 37, Joseph is favored by his father. In Genesis 39 Joseph is favored by his master Potiphar and the prison warden. Finally in Genesis 41 Joseph has favor with Pharoah. I believe that although Joseph faced many hardships, he did two things that allowed this blessing.

Joseph gave his best no matter what situation he found himself in.
Joseph gave God the glory for whatever good he was able to do.

Today many of us are facing hardships that, like Joseph, we didn't cause. None the less, they are our reality. Hopefully as we press into God, we too can give our best and God the glory.

The Story of Peter

2009-11-09T15:12:00.001-08:00

Peter, next to Jesus, is my favorite person to read about in the Bible. His stories tell so much about his personality. For instance, you can read about him leaving everything behind to follow Jesus and think he's courageous. You can read about him walking on the water with Jesus and think he's bold. You can read about him rebuking Jesus and think he's arrogant. Or you can read about him denying Christ and think he's humiliated. Every story that I read about Peter seems to bring out another personality trait. One thing, however, always stands out to me -his passion.

I believe that Peter's passion is what Jesus knew would make him a great leader. In John 21:15-22, Jesus has two conversations with Peter that give clear direction for that passion. In the first conversation, Jesus asks Peter three different times if he loves Him and then tells him to feed and care for his sheep. Jesus seems to be reaffirming an earlier teaching he gave on what the greatest commandment is. In Matthew 22:37-39 Jesus says that the greatest commandment is to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself." Basically, Jesus is saying love me and love my people. When loving God becomes our first passion, then a natural overflow will be to love His people.

In the second conversation between Jesus and Peter in John 21, Jesus tells Peter to follow Him. At first glance it might seem that Jesus is just asking Peter to get up and leave from where they are. However, when Peter notices that John is following behind them and asks Jesus about it, we get clarification. Jesus, seemingly emphatic, tells Peter not to concern himself with John, and says, "You must follow me." It can be easy to get distracted by others when we're passionate. However, as leaders our priority has to be a passionate relationship with Jesus. Then all those that God allows us to lead will know that Christ is the Way---we will be loving God and loving His people.

The story of Ruth

2009-10-31T17:34:00.001-07:00

This past week we looked at the book of Ruth in Bible study. Much of our discussion centered on Ruth's humility, her commitment to Naomi and her tenacity in serving.

As one member noted, Ruth seemed to embody Philippians 2:5 which says, "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus." Although she faced the heartbreak of losing her husband and leaving her family, Ruth's resolve never wavered. She remained faithful. I couldn't help but wonder what would happen if we as believers had that same kind of dedication in our marriages.

"Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God." (Ruth 1: 16) These words are often read as part of marriage ceremonies and were read at my wedding almost 15 years ago. But do we really take them to heart? As the story of Ruth invades my everyday life, I'm praying for God to remind me that humility, service and commitment are the attitudes that reflect Him in my marriage. What about you? Will you join me?

Trophies

2009-10-22T11:35:00.001-07:00

This week I experienced one of the greatest moments of my life. I had the honor and privilege to lead several ladies in a Bible study that God allowed me to write! The study is the name sake of this blog, Every Day Faith. Basically the study takes you on an inductive journey through the lives of Old and New Testament Saints looking for how their stories apply to your everyday life.

A few days ago, someone asked me how I got the idea, what prompted me to write it? For a moment I didn't have a real answer, but for God, of course! Then God, of course, reminded me...it all started with trophies. I grew up in a very rural part of South Carolina and attended a very small country church with wooden pews. Once a year, the church would attend an event called "The Sunday School Convention." The convention would take place on a Saturday and last all day. Part of the day was a Bible contest that the children participated in for the member churches. I always went along with another girl. We would study together and practice for weeks. At the convention, each team would take turns answering questions about the Bible. If you missed a question you were out of the game until the last group was left. We always did quite well. Still today there are trophies sitting in my home church that we won for answering all the questions right. Unfortunately it was all about the trophies then. But God, of course, had planted the stories in my heart.

Now as a believer and a tad bit more mature, I know that these Biblical stories are part of God's message to me. They're part of God's instruction for me, they're part of God's direction for me, and they're part of His plan for me. And they're part of God's message, instruction, direction and plan for YOU! How do I know? God, of course, told me so through the stories of the ladies this week. The greatest trophy I've ever received was hearing how the story of Naaman related to their lives. And this was only the first story and the first week of our study!

If you don't know the story of Naaman, look it up in 2 Kings, chapter 5. Send me a note and tell me how it speaks to your everyday life.

Revival

2009-10-12T10:37:00.001-07:00

I read this article today. The title was "Why We Don't Have Revival" and it rattled my cage a little, in a good way!

You see I'm a person who thrives on routine. I like to have a plan and follow it. I like to make decisions and work them out. Change doesn't upset me so long as I know about it and can fit it into the plans. (That last statement almost sounds ludicrous, but it's the truth for me.) When I think about my spiritual life and how I want my faith to grow and become more and more a part of my everyday life, then change is inevitable. And well I already told you how I feel about change, so what's a girl to do?

In his article, Mr. McKeever, says "By "revival," we mean an across-the-board movement of the Holy Spirit as He touches hearts, changes minds, melts pride, and transforms sinners. In a revival, the hearts of God's people are broken in repentance and humility, the Lord's people come together in love and service, and the Lord's work of ministry and giving and witnessing and missions moves forward at warp speed."

If you ask me if I want that "revival" I'm going to say a big ole Yes! But do I really? Certainly that kind of revival means my cage is going to be rattled, my life unsettled and CHANGE is going to happen. I think what this girl is going to do is pray to want it…ask God to help me want revival. Amen.

Do you want revival? You can read Mr. McKeever's full article here.

Happy Fall!

2009-10-01T11:16:00.000-07:00

I love the Fall...the crisp air, the beautiful colors, football, light jackets, fairs, more football, soups, and the smell of pumpkin. Recently I read here that there was a pumpkin shortage! How would we survive all things Fall and holiday-ish without some pumpkin? Then it occurred to me that I hadn't been able to find my favorite can of pumpkin in the local grocery stores. No one seemed to have it on their holiday "all things bakery" displays. I kept telling myself it was too early, ignoring the Christmas decor that was already out and on sale.

So I decided to take one more look at my local grocery store and found this huge can of pumpkin...one of only two in the store. So this week I made my favorite pumpkin muffins for my Bible Study group.

These are made with chocolate chips and I add some walnuts in too. They are so good and the kitchen smells wonderful when you bake them. You can get the recipe here.

If you can find some pumpkin, try them; you'll like them!

Bible Study

2009-09-29T12:50:00.001-07:00

Bible Study-it's the thing I do, the thing I am very passionate about. This week I asked myself a question…Why? Why am I doing this? Why am I passionate about it?

The main reason for me is that I believe the Bible is God's Word and it is the primary way He speaks to me. As a believer, I want to know all about God and how He desires for me to live my life. 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17 says:

"All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." (NIV)

I believe this is the truth. Do you? Do you study the Bible? If so, why do you study it? Please share.

Despair or Discipline

2009-09-23T07:52:00.000-07:00

Do you remember what it was like when you were discplined as a kid? I do. I am the middle child, the overachiever and the baby girl in my family. When I got into trouble, it was easy to pout, fake cry or somehow manipulate my way out of punishment...sometimes! The point is I failed to reap the benefits of the discipline. I spent my time despairing over what I couldn't have or do and finding a way out.

Today many of us are facing our own discplines or challenges. Some of them major, some of them minor. The question is do we see the benefits of the discipline or are we just despairing? God's word has amazing promises for those who are trained by His discipline. Last week I "unpacked" Hebrews 12:10-11 in my Bible study. (I recently heard or read the phrase "unpack the verse". It's not mine, but I loved the visual so I'm borrowing it!!) Here's what the verse says:

"Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." NIV

God's discipline according to these verses is:

for our good
to share in His holiness
to produce a harvest of righteousness
to produce peace

As Christians, I believe we would all say we want these things. We also probably agree with verse 11 that discipline is not pleasant and sometimes is painful. The challenge for us is to not seep into despair but to be trained by the discipline.

Take some time to identify where God may be discplining you. Determine to not be despairing, but rather focused on the goodness, holiness, righteousness and peace of God that will come as you are trained by Him. Your faith will be stronger.

Interrupted!

2009-09-15T16:00:00.001-07:00

Check this out...a new bible study!

Interrupted: An Adventure in Relearning the Essentials of Faith, by Jen Hatmaker, is a new short-term Bible study from Threads.

If you go over to All Access you can win a free copy.

I'm going to check it out myself. Love me some Bible study.

The Dark

2009-09-14T11:50:00.000-07:00

I love driving down country roads and reading all the local church signs. Recently I came across one that has stayed on my mind. Probably because it spoke directly to the Bible study I’m currently doing, Walking by Faith by Jennifer Rothschild. Here's a picture.

The question I keep coming back to is this…can this be said of me? Do I really want to walk with God in the dark? When I’m not sure what is happening in my life or what the next step is for me, does my life say “I’d rather walk with God in this?” Do my actions, attitude and/or speech tell others I’m walking with God? Or do they say I’d really rather have some “light” on this situation? Seriously, I don’t want to walk around my own house in the dark and I know where everything is!

In this past week’s lesson, Jennifer had us look at one of my favorite stories in the Bible. It’s the story of Peter walking on the water with Jesus. You can read about it in Matthew 14:22-33. Often we hear this story used to illustrate a lack of faith, or what happens when we take our eyes off of God and focus on the storms of life. For me there was another lesson this week.
Peter asks Jesus, if it’s Him to bid him come. Peter doesn’t just want to go with any cool person who happens to walk on water. He wants to be with Jesus! After Peter gets scared and starts to sink, the passage says Jesus reaches out his hand to Peter. The next verses say they get back in the boat and the winds die down. I’m thinking Jesus walked (on the water) back to the boat with Peter. It was dark; the storm was still happening; but Jesus didn’t leave Peter.

No doubt I am a little biased toward Peter. My life is full of spontaneous moments that have gotten me into trouble or at least a slap on the hand much like we read of Peter! I can’t help but think that what if in the “dark” instead of asking God to shed light, I ask God if it’s Him, let me come to Him, let me walk with Him. My focus is no longer on me, but on the One who is directing my life. The One who made me, knows me, and watches out for me. Jesus is the One who knows where I might stub my toe, walk into a wall or fall flat on my face. When my focus is on the One, the dark is not so scary.

Walks

2009-08-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

This week my Gather and Grow group started our next Bible Study. We're working through Jennifer Rothschild's study called Walking by Faith: Lessons I Learned in the Dark. For our "ice breaker" question we asked each lady to tell us about a favorite place they've walked or enjoy walking in. The responses covered everything from walking down the isle to get married, to walking in parks and enjoying God's creation, to the walk they made to receive Christ. I talked about a walk I took with my family last summer to see Black Beach in Maui.

Black Beach is a stop on the "Road to Hana" drive in Maui. You pull into this park area at the top of a mountain and then you take a pretty steep walk down to the actual beach. We took a picnic and ate some lunch before tackling the walk that day. But once we got down to the surf, it was amazing and so worth the trek. It's called "Black Beach" because the surf and beach side are full of black rocks, actually lava rocks. The rocks that are on the beach front are jagged and tough on your feet. But once you reach the edge of the water, the rocks are smoother and smaller. They've been tossed in the ocean enough to wear off the rough edges. Your feet feel like they're getting a constant massage...it's awesome! Defintiely one of my favorite memories from our vacation.

After I left the study this week, I couldn't help but think about how I almost missed this experience. The walk seemed so far and steep. The children might fall. We had so much more to see. The rocks on the beach front were killing our feet. All these things that I could see could have kept me from an amazing experience. All these things that I could see could have kept me from an amazing display of God's creation. I was almost blinded by my own sight.

God's word teaches us that we live by faith, not by sight. (2 Corinthians 5:7) Today be encouraged. Don't let what you see keep you from experiencing God's blessings.

Here are just a few of our pics from that day. Enjoy.

Gripped by His Glory

2009-08-19T14:24:00.001-07:00

Several of the churches in our area are currently doing a series called "United". It is so encouraging to know that I can walk in the door of any of these churches and feel at home; a part of God's kingdom united by His glory. During the service this week, Mike, our pastor, talked about the fact that God has a grip on us and He never lets go. Sometimes we walk away from that, but God never lets us go.

At the end of the service, Chris Boggess came up and said something that has really resonated with me this week. Chris reminded us at the end of the service that what connects us as a kingdom of believers is not the "thing" we walk away from God to do, but the "grip" of God that never lets us go. It's all about God and His glory not our story.

This week I met with a group of women who go to different churches, who have different spheres of influence, who have different calls to ministry. The journeys we are on reach far and wide. The sweetest thing was knowing that we are connected by God's glory-the desire to make Him known wherever we are. That God would allow us to have an impact in His kingdom is a testament to His grace and mercy-not our stories.

I needed the reminder-thank you Jesus.

"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

Storms

2009-08-13T10:40:00.001-07:00

How do you respond to storms, specifically the storms that come in your life? You know the things that happen and cause us to fret, to worry, to act differently than we normally would. Do you work harder, keep longer hours? Do you stop eating or like me eat way too much? Do you lose sleep or sleep more than usual? Or maybe you try to calm the storm by fixing everything? But what if God's plan is for you to weather the storm? What if He wants to take you through it? Maybe you come out a little battered, a little bruised, but very much aware of who your Deliverer is.

This morning I read Acts 27 during my quiet time. It's about a real live weather storm, a northeaster that causes a shipwreck. The Apostle Paul is a prisoner on the ship and for the most part the captain nor the crew will listen to him. As they grow more and more fearful in the storm, the crew begins to dump cargo and even the ship's gear. In verses 21-26, Paul tells them of God's promise to save them, all of them, and to deliver Paul to stand before Caesar. Oh and by the way, God also says they'll be shipwrecked on an island!

In verses 30 and 31, the sailors decide to try and leave the ship on the lifeboats. But Paul reminds them of God's promise; they'll be saved only if they stay on the ship...yeah the one that's going to be shipwrecked! So they cut the lifeboats loose. In the next few verses, Paul encourages the crew to eat. They have been so worried that they haven't eaten in two weeks. Again Paul reminds them that not one of them will perish. Then it happens; shipwreck. They hit a sandbar and the waves and wind begin to break apart their vessel. The storm was relentless. How would they survive? In verses 40 & 41, the crew was told to jump over and swim to shore. Those that couldn't swim hung on to pieces of the ship until they could be helped to land. Everyone survived, just as God promised they would.

I can't help but think that it's a good thing they ate! Had they not, they would've been too weak to make it to shore. What if they had gotten in the lifeboats? If the storm was bad enough to rip apart the vessel, what would it have done to the lifeboats? Today this makes me want to choose to respond differently to life's storms. I want to remain anchored to God's promises and to be ready for my deliverance even if it means swimming through the storm. What about you? I'd love to hear how you weather the storms of life with God?

"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2009-08-09T10:15:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my hubby, Steve! I hope you have the best day ever.

He Spoke at She Speaks

2009-08-05T19:06:00.001-07:00

I'm back and She Speaks was awesome. As I promised in my last post, today's post is going to be all about how God spoke at She Speaks to me.

For about a month before the conference I began to pray and fast. One word kept coming to the forefront of my time with God- Connections. My prayers centered on making connections at the conference. Connections for me, connections through me, connections with me, just simply asking God to make me aware of how my being at the conference would make a difference in this thing I'm doing called ministry. You see the last few months I had spent a lot of time writing a proposal to be pitched at She Speaks. Because I was somewhat clueless about the process, the isolation I felt while writing left me feeling lonely. And I am a people person!! And one of my most favorite things to do in life is to make connections! So here is a list; a long list of how my sweet Jesus showed off at She Speaks. Enjoy.

Friday night I'm on the elevator by myself. It stops and on walks two ladies and I realize one of them (saw her name tag) was a friend of a friend from home. Earlier this summer my friend had asked me to keep an eye out for her. This may seem insignificant to you, but in a hotel filled to capacity, 600 women attending the conference, hotel staff and the size of the hotel…there's no way it is a coincidence that we found each other.
Saturday morning we go down for breakfast and it's a crazy room packed full of women. As we begin to look for a place to sit, I spot someone I think I know. You have to understand that I've not had coffee and I don't see well in low lighting. So I throw caution to the wind, and call out her name (o-k… I yelled!) And sure enough, LJ was in the house…So much fun to see Lisa there. Again, only God can pull that off in a room so full and crazy.
Saturday morning-I had to leave a few minutes before the end of a main session for a publisher appointment. The speaker was Wendy Pope and I so wanted to meet her. I have a Gather and Grow group and she is the coordinator. As I rounded a corner on my way to the appointment, Wendy comes out of the session. We met, we hugged and she encouraged me for my appointment like crazy! After my appointment, I'm headed down the hall way for my next session in a daze! Who's in the hallway? Wendy Pope and Amy Carroll. They were so excited for me when I shared that the publisher liked my proposal and took it!
A publisher taking the proposal was huge for me. I've never written anything for a proposal and could not believe how gracious God was to me. This little girl from the middle of nowhere with no formal training was just riding on the wings of my sweet Jesus.
I had a second publisher appointment that night. As I sat waiting, a beautiful young woman came and sat next to me. We began discussing our proposals and I was able to tell her about someone I met earlier this year who is looking for exactly what she was doing! Oh sweet Jesus, we ran out of time before we could exchange names. It was my time to go in and I quickly tossed my business card to her and said CONTACT ME! That sounds rude, but I know this was God. Her proposal is so unique and wanted by my contact. This was probably the sweetest moment I had at She Speaks, because it had nothing to do with me or my calling. Just connecting someone else to help them.
My second publisher meeting was late in the afternoon and the meeting went well, but the outcome was a defining moment for me. They really liked my proposal, said it was solid, but they couldn't take it. They had just contracted someone else with a similar project. The meeting ended on a great note of encouragement, but I truly wanted to cry or throw up! When I went outside my sweet friend Dorilee was waiting for me. She sat with me and we talked for a second and then God opened my eyes to the possibilities. I felt the Holy Spirit began to say to my heart, if they're publishing something similar then there must be a need. Someone else will want it too. So I walked up to Sheila (she was coordinating the appointments) and asked her if she thought there was anyone left who would want to look at my proposal. She very graciously asked all the publishers and agents there. She was able to get me in to see one more agency. THEY TOOK MY PROPOSAL TOO! God was showing off in a big way and I could barely contain my emotions.
Later that night I was standing in line to meet Jennifer Rothschild (oh my word) with some of my friends. We starting talking to the ladies behind us and one of them had self-published their book through an agency that we wanted to know more about. So while we stood in line, she shared her experience, gave us advice, answered our questions and just helped us understand that process so much better.
One of my friends wanted to meet and speak with Van Walton. I knew what she looked like, but had not been able to find her. Sunday morning we are on a packed elevator headed down for breakfast. The elevator stopped on another floor and I hear the lady in the front say "Come on Van, we'll make room!" I peek around the corner and say to my friend, that's Van, that's her…go get her! So when the elevator stopped, she and Van connected. Van was so gracious and spent time answering her questions and giving her advice.

There were 599 other women in attendance at She Speaks. This is only a small bit of what God did this past weekend…just my experience. But for what it's worth, there is no other place I would have rather been or no other way I would have wanted to spend the money. If you were there, I would love to hear about your experience. If you've never been, mark it on your calendar for 2010…July 30-August 1.

She Speaks

2009-07-29T17:51:00.000-07:00

This weekend I'm off to the She Speaks Conference. You can read more about the conference here. Basically it's a Speaker/Writer/Women's Ministry Leader training conference and it is incredible. I had the great fortune to attend in 2007 and am going back this year.

Today I found myself getting excited to write about what God does...before it happens! Mentally I had a whole week of posts mapped out. So I thought I should take a moment or two to talk about what He's already done. Here's how God has already spoken before the weekend even begins:

I had an overwhelming desire to go back to She Speaks and had no clue of where the money to register would come from. God did and He brought it.
I felt like I should bring a proposal, but had no clue of where or how to begin. God did and He brought just the right people to help me out.
I wanted to know people going this year (I knew no one in 2007!). Not only am I going with some fabulous friends, I'm going to meet some new ones face to face finally.
I cried a lot during the writing process. Hard to admit, but there's a whole lot of reasons why writing is the last thing I feel called to. (Another post for another day..maybe.) God knew my fears and He brought me much comfort through the prayers of friends and even strangers.
Lastly I almost gave up so many times out of fear, I can't even remember how many. But God used His Word to comfort me.

"I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears. Those who look to Him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of shame will darken their faces." Psalm 34:4,5 NLT
I am going to She Speaks in full confidence that God has called me to go, that God has sent me and that God will be faithful through this process. No matter what happens, we're gonna be talking next week about how HE SPEAKS at SHE SPEAKS!
In the meantime, I'd love to hear how God is speaking to you.

Times of Refreshing

2009-07-13T17:03:00.001-07:00

Early this morning I awakened to rain falling against my window, thunder booming and lightning flashing. It was so refreshing, because we've not had a good summer thunderstorm in a while. Later I left the house and couldn't help but notice that the trees were standing taller and looking greener. My hydrangeas were all perked up and the blooms were so nice to see. Even though the sun was starting to come out and the temperature was rising, the rain had given everything a look of readiness.

It reminded me of one of my favorite verses in the Bible. Acts 3:19 says, "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,"

As I spend time with God every morning, repent of my sins and let His word wash over me, I too am refreshed. I can face the day a little taller, a little more prepared for life. When the traffic is bad, the kids are arguing, the phone want stop ringing, and there's more to do than I can possibly manage, my attitude is so much nicer. I'm very grateful for God's presence and His word in my daily life.

GPS

2009-06-25T20:09:00.001-07:00

Recently our family headed out on a vacation. We were going to be driving so my husband put the GPS on the dashboard and off we went. After several hours of driving, we both needed some coffee so we pulled off the nearest exit with the good stuff. After our pit stop, the kids noticed that the GPS was doing some funny stuff. Here's the conversation that took place with both children talking very loudly with ear plugs in while watching a DVD!! (We're really techie on our road trips.)

Hannah-"Daddy, why are you going the wrong way? It says to turn right."

Joshua-"Moma do you know that Daddy is going the wrong way?" (He knows who'll ask for directions…LOL.)

Once we assured the kids we had just taken a detour for some coffee, we were back on track and the GPS was happy. As we enjoyed our coffee, I couldn't help but think about all the warning signs that had just been sent our way. Thankfully for us, this particular choice wasn't life altering. But too often this week, I've watched or heard about people who have made bad choices and are suffering the consequences. It's been hard to hear. I keep thinking the warning signs are everywhere, why don't they just stop. And before you think I'm on a soap box, I've asked myself the same question. Why don't I just stop? And here's how I think we stay on the right path:

¹⁰ A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. ¹¹ Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. ¹² For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

¹³ Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. ¹⁴ Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. ¹⁵ For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. ¹⁶ In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. ¹⁷ Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. ¹⁸ Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere."

(Ephesians 6:10-18 NLT)

For me these verses mean that although as a believer I have set my course to be like Christ, I have a real enemy that wants to trip me up. To combat those attacks I have to daily suit up with God's armour. Put God's word in my life- it is the Truth and it always stands. I must know that God is in control and have Peace. And finally I must keep praying for the strength and wisdom to make good choices. Will the attacks stop? Doubtful. Will I be more aware of the warning signs? Absolutely.

Girls Day Out!

2009-06-19T14:41:00.000-07:00

Woo hoo...I just spent the day out with my favorite girl, Hannah!

We got a pedicure, had some lunch and then went to see the Hannah Montana Movie. It was fantastic! I loved that it was a good, clean, family movie with a great message.

"Life's a climb; but the view is great!"

And no girls day out would be complete without some shopping, so we headed off and spent a little money...just a little.

Thanks Hannah for hanging with your Mom today...I had a blast.

You always make me laugh.

Perseverance

2009-06-05T13:02:00.001-07:00

Last week at our swim meet, Joshua was swimming really late in a Free Style Relay. He kept asking me if he could skip it. It was late and he was tired. But I put my coach's hat on, and explained how much the team needed him, it was just Free Style and he was first. He'd swim down the pool in less than a minute and be sitting back in his chair in no time. It was a little chaotic with all the 7 & 8 year old girls and boys getting ready for their relays, but we went over and got in our lane.

The coach starts going through the line-up and mistakenly sends us to the other side of the pool. There are a couple of boys named Joshua in this age bracket, so it's confusing. I thought this was an error but we took off, because the race in front of us was coming to an end! (If you've ever been at a swim meet, this happens..it's crazy, it's hot and it's quick!) We get settled in our lane on the other side, we're ready to go and then I hear someone yelling "Joshua Turner, Joshua Turner"! You guessed it…we were supposed to start at the other end. So off we go again running back to where we started. Funny moment here- Joshua didn't know the lady calling his name, so he hesitated before taking off with her back around the pool. As we're running, I'm yelling it's o-k…just go! I was glad to see him hesitate to go with a complete stranger.

For those of you still here, Joshua is 7, he's tired and we've lapped the pool once and haven't even hit the water yet. We get in line, then the coach says, "I need Joshua to swim the last leg of this relay also." At this point Joshua's adrenaline has kicked in from all the running, so I say what the heck, he'll do it. Joshua has never swam two legs of a relay, so I told him to just sit on the side of the pool when he finished the first lap and I would tell him when to go again. The relay starts and he takes off. I run through the crowd back to the other end of the pool to meet him.

As I'm making my way, he finishes, the second boy jumps in and takes off. I can see that Joshua is looking for me and starting to hop out. So I yell his name and in a weird twisted moment, all goes crazy. A little neighbor friend (about 10 years old) sees me coming and she's standing in front of Joshua. She begins to scream, "GO, GO JOSH, GO!" "YOU GOTTA GO BACK, GO, GO!" So he turns around and takes off back down the pool. To this day I have no idea of what she was thinking, but I was mad. Really mad. (Insert out-of body experience here. Not pretty, not good to share.)

Myself and two other adults tried to call him back. But he was off like a bullet, swimming faster than I've ever seen him swim. I could not move. I could not speak. I think I stopped breathing. I watched as he got out at the other end and the coaches tell him to run back to me. (Yes, we've lapped the pool so many times now, I can't keep count!) I hear the coaches yelling, "make room, let him through!" I start to realize he's gonna swim the last leg too, but he's getting lost in the crowd. So I do what any good, competitive, crazy Mom would do. I go get him, and basically throw him in as the third leg is finishing. And then I went nuts (or nuttier)…I'm thinking if we're doing this, we're doing it BIG! I began to make my way all the way down the side of the pool, cheering him on, yelling for him to go fast, telling him not to give up! He didn't, not even for a second. He swam like a crazy boy. The coaches are cheering, people in the crowd are cheering. It's an awesome moment. And here's how the "JOSH MAN" finished:

1^ST PLACE! Blue is a great color on him…don't you think? Good job, Josh.

Summer Bible Study

2009-06-03T10:25:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for a good Summer Bible Study? Here are two and both of these you can do on your own or with a group if you'd like.

BRING IT - This is our current sermon series at NorthStar on the book of James. Each week you can get daily devotions here called Digging Deeper that help lead you through the passages. The first one was May 31st, but you can catch up quite easily! The sermons can be heard here.

The second study is with Living Proof Ministries and they are starting on June 23rd with ME, MYSELF AND LIES by Jennifer Rothschild. You can find all the details for this one on their blog. I really like Jennifer and will get to hear her speak later this summer...so excited!!

If you have another summer study, let me know. I always feel like the schedule is a train wreck in the summer, but being in God's word is a priority.

Worship

2009-06-01T19:02:00.000-07:00

During church on Sunday, we sang a song called Stronger (by Reuben Morgan and Ben Fielding).
I've heard the song before and really like it. During the chorus, our worship leader, Eric, moved away from the microphone. I don't think I've ever heard such great worship from MEN!
It was such an awesome moment, I just stood and listened and it took my breath away. Eric didn't ask only the men to sing, it was just that there were so many and they were really letting the worship flow. So glad I didn't miss it. Great job Eric!

Here's the chorus:

You are stronger, You are stronger,
Sin is broken, You have saved me.
It is written, Christ is risen
Jesus, You are Lord of All.

A Pure Heart

2009-05-29T15:26:00.000-07:00

Last week I had a conversation with a friend. We had both been vacationing in different states, and we're in different stages of life. However, we had the same thoughts concerning our weekends. We had been angry, impatient, aggravated beyond our limits. SINFUL. That's it...nothing pretty about it. We had both been dealing with family and friend drama, and came away feeling less than Christlike. And it was definitely weighing heavy on our hearts as we talked.

Later I began to read Psalm 51. This Psalm was written by David after he was confronted about his adultery, his sin. Verse 10 says, "Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me."(NIV) David didn't ask for his heart to be repaired, or put back together, or to even clean it up. He asked for a new one. He realized that nothing good was in him, only through the power of God at work in him could he be made right. The same is true for me and my friend. The only way we can deal with our concerns in a godly way is to let God deal through us and in us.
The Message version of the same verse reads, "God, make a fresh start in me, shape a Genesis week from the chaos of my life." This week that's my goal. To watch God make a Genesis, a new creation, out of my chaos.

National Day of Prayer

2009-05-07T12:26:00.001-07:00

Today I went to a prayer service at a local christian school. My friend Tracie was the coordinator and it was so neat to watch the day unfold. Tracie opened the service by talking about how sometimes God puts a seed in your heart, a desire that you have. Our job is to grow that seed, to water it, fertilize it...not dig it up! We need to believe that what God says is true. I so needed to hear that. Too often I let the thoughts and concerns of others sway what I know God has taught me, what He has given me. God's word says in Mark 11:24 "whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." My prayer today is that I will be a pray-er and a believe-er.

Later in the service, another friend shared how God had answered prayers over the course of the past couple of years for she and her family. In the midst of some very scary and life-altering moments for their daughter, she was able to be gut-wrenchingly honest with God. The rawness of knowing God hasn't left you, but feeling like He has, was hard to hear. But even more amazing is that we can actually speak that honestly with our Creator and know that He loves us and He's not forsaken us.

Today I hope that you take some time to pray.

2nd Place!

2009-05-02T15:28:00.000-07:00

Congrats to Hannah and the Rampage Girls! They came in 2nd place in their softball season.

Villain Part 2

2009-05-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

This week I've pondered much about part 2 of the Villain series we're doing at church. One sentence has played over in my head all week.

"Sometimes when we're tempted we feel like we're out of God's will, when in fact we're right where God wants us." This statement is based on Luke 4:1 which says, "Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the desert...." Verse 2 thru 13 tells the story of the temptations that the villain begins to throw at Jesus and how Jesus uses the scriptures to refute him at every turn. The truth prevailed.

What I've most held to this week, is that the TRUTH of God's word is still the most powerful weapon we have has believers. No matter if the temptation I'm facing is physical, relational, financial or otherwise, God's Truth prevails...everytime.

You can read some great devotionals on this week's sermon here.

James 1:27

2009-05-01T06:54:00.000-07:00

"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." James 1:27NIV

I read this post today and it is a must read for any student of scripture...especially the next to last paragraph on this verse.

The Elf on the Shelf

2009-04-28T08:54:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I got to meet one of the co-authors of The Elf on the Shelf book. Her name is Carol Aebersold, and she mainly came to speak about her experiences with getting the book published. It is a fascinating story and I was amazed at how God's hand was evident in every step. If you get a chance to hear Carol or her daughter, Chanda Bell, I encourage you to go.

As I've looked back over my notes, I was suprised by how many times Carol talked about praying...to be confident, to overcome obstacles, to seek direction. Her advice was "to bathe everything in prayer." I love the visual of saturating all that we have and all that we desire in prayer; making it pure and clean before God.

Character

2009-04-21T05:29:00.001-07:00

This past weekend our church started a new series called Villain.

During the sermon our pastor said "Satan will always act according to his character." And what is his character? Glad you asked. He is a liar, murderer (John 8:44), stealer and destroyer (John 10:10), just to name a few.

However, what struck me in the comment was could the same be said of me? Do I act according to my character? And what does that say about my character? This week I have challenged myself to respond in ways that hopefully resonate a godly, Christlike character-peaceful, graceful, merciful and loving.

You can listen to the sermon and see the notes here. Also there are daily devotionals that help take the message into your week called Digging Deeper.