God Knows

"Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb." Psalm 139:7-13

Have you ever thought, why does this have to happen to me? I'm sure you have and I bet you have even dealt with disappointment. I have been dealt a great bit of disappointment in my life and the latest was just a couple of weeks ago. Before I dive into that disappointment let me set it up with an event that happened 10 months ago. February was suppose to be a neat month for me, because I was going to attend our church's revival. It would be my first revival but I was also going to help in the kitchen, since I was now on the kitchen committee. My husband and I were looking forward to it, but that didn't happen.
    My step dad was sick with cancer and the week before the revival was to start he was put in the hospital then sent home with hospice. My husband and I, with our kids went down to visit my step dad for what we were told could possibly be the last time. Our visit was good, but sad. The man lying in the hospital bed didn't even resemble the man I knew to be my step dad. We left Sunday morning to get the kids back and ready for school, but more importantly because our church's revival started that night.  I couldn't wait to get back and go but was almost certain my step dad was going to die soon. I didn't want to leave my mom and cried myself to sleep on our two hour drive home. We made it home just in time to straighten the house up and head up to the church. In the middle of the sermon that night my phone buzzed in my pocket. It was my cousin so I ignored it and listened to the pastor who was giving the sermon on the mount from memory. My phone buzzed again and this time something told me to answer the phone. I walked quickly out of the sanctuary and answered the phone. My cousin, crying said, "Kim, your mom told me to call. DA just passed away."  I hung up the phone and stepped outside, my husband was by my side in just a few minutes. After the service was over we made plans for our kids to stay with family and we left the next morning.  The week was long, but I spent a lot of quality time with my mom. When we returned home the following Friday I was excited to be home, but sad to leave my mom. I stopped by to thank our pastor for driving the two hours to attend the funeral. I told him I was disappointed we missed the revival. His reply has stuck with me and I think it always will. He said, "Kim, no need to worry about that. God knew you weren't going to be at this revival. You were where you were suppose to be."
    Those exact words came to my mind two weeks ago when my mom handed me a fist full of disappointment. She was suppose to attend our church's Christmas program. I was very excited because the music that the adult choir was singing touched my heart. My whole family had some part in the program and I couldn't wait for her to hear it. I prayed that the music would touch her heart like it touched mine. My heart broke the afternoon of the program when I was told that she couldn't make it. My prayer for her to be touched by the  music wouldn't be answered. The Christmas program was beautiful, just like I knew it would be. It was a moving night and the house was full. I went home and prayed for my heart to forgive and heal...quickly because I would see her the next day. I went to work the next morning and as I was praying for my heart to not be cold towards her,  my pastor's words came back to me. God answered my prayer and reminded me that He knew she wouldn't be there. I remembered then that God was in control and although disappointment hurts God knows long before I do what is going to happen. That afternoon when she arrived to go to my son's Christmas program  at school I was excited to see her. My heart had truly forgiven her, and I was able to enjoy her company. As the year comes to an end and you stumble across those days of disappointment the year has brought you, remember God knows what is going to happen. He knew before you did and the truth is I wouldn't want it any other way. You can't escape His presence and although we can't see what our future holds, He knows...He's been there. "The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:8  Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
*Bible verses from NIV Bible

A Mother's Love

The birth of any child is a blessing and a miracle from God to say the least. The moment you realize you are pregnant your life changes and you find yourself wondering what this new life will be like. You can't grasp the drastic change a child brings to your life. I know that I have been blessed beyond my wildest imagination with my two children. This time of year we all focus on the babe in the manger but as a mom I can't help but wonder how Mary felt. From the day Gabriel came from Heaven to tell her you will have a son and you will call him Jesus to the day he was crucified. "You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus." Luke 1:31 When the pregnancy test says you are pregnant you are hopeful but when you go to see the doctor and they confirm you are pregnant you rejoice. From that moment on you do everything in your power to protect, love and nurture your baby. You are filled with joy and hope for a future that is still unknown.  Mary must have felt the same way, except her baby is the reason we rejoice and have joy and hope. Her son brought joy and hope into this world when he was born on that night in Bethlehem. As all mother's do, she took care of him and wrapped him in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger. "This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths lying in a manger." Luke 2:12 Do you think at that moment she realized that her baby would be our savior, that this sweet infant would be the ONE who comes and brings everlasting life to those who believe? Did she know that she would again be wrapping him in strips of cloth 33 years later when his job on this earth was done? "Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean cloth." Luke 27:59 My heart breaks for Mary as she knows her son is born to die. The birth of a child is a day a mother will never forget, but parents are suppose to die before their children. This is not the case for Mary and in that way we can in one way or another relate to her, the mother of the chosen one. It's easy to forget that Jesus was a baby, and the bonding that took place between him and Mary as he grew into a toddler, a boy, a teenager, and a man. Jesus was human, meaning he like all of us, had to learn to talk, walk and was dependant upon Mary to take care of him. As a mother of two, I would take a bullet, jump in front of a car or( in those days) hang on a cross for my children. I can't fathom how Mary felt watching her baby boy suffer a terrible death on the cross so He could save the world. The heart ache must have been unbearable but knowing that she would see her son in Heaven one day must have soothed her aching heart. The bond between mother and child is strong but the bond between a mother and God incarnate....wow! This year as you spend time with your children remember the babe born in a manger who gives us all joy and hope and a reason to live. Those emotions we felt when our babies were born were magnified that night...REJOICE! Our savior was born and died but still lives...Merry Christmas!! Until next time may God bless you and keep you.
*Bible verses used from NIV

The gift that keeps on giving

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given,  and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

My family and I have started decorating for Christmas but it's taking longer than what I would like. We have something going on almost every night of the week and sometimes more than one thing for the night. I know it's all part of being a mom of two little kids and being married to a band director, but I like to slow down and enjoy the decorating not just throw it up so we can say we did it. As I sat on the living room floor going through our decorations I began thinking of how silly we can be this time of year. The whole reason we celebrate Christmas is to recognize the birth of our savior but, we get so caught up in the shopping and the decorations it tends to take away from the birth of Jesus Christ. I got up from my spot on the floor and posted the following on facebook: "Sometimes I don't like this time of year because people are so consumed with what they want. It is better to give than to receive but honestly we can't out give what's already been given to us through the birth of Jesus, his life on earth, and his death when he conquered the grave. Share the good news this Christmas....you might introduce someone to a gift that lasts for an eternity." I, like everyone else, tend to get caught up in the giving of gifts and the decorations. This year I have a burden to give more than I have in years past. I have already given but will continue to give. I can give with money but more importantly I can give my time. I want to start a family tradition and that is to give as much as we can all the time not just during Christmas. The truth is God gave us his son so we could have everlasting life with him in heaven and there is no greater gift than that. I can't out give my God and savior but I can give money and time to those who need it and I can share the story of my savior Jesus Christ. Although I can't give the gift that keeps on giving I can introduce people to the one gift that will not only change your life today but for eternity. I plan on focusing more on the babe in the manger than all the hustle and bustle. As you go about your days planning please set time aside to visit with your friends and family and let them know how much they mean to you. Don't wait for the holidays to pass so you're not so busy, the truth is we are busy all the time. Give however you can give to those in need, either by donating money or time and watch the Christmas spirit come alive. Rejoice that you have the gift that keeps on giving and introduce others to that gift. Praise be to God in the highest! Until next time may God bless you and keep you.
*Bible verse taken from NIV Bible

Weakness

"But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong." 2 Corinthians 9-10

  I don't know about you but I don't want anyone to know my weaknesses. I don't want to seem vulnerable or incapable of doing something. I like to think my fears and weaknesses are best kept to myself. I am less vulnerable and less likely to get hurt, physically or emotionally, if no one knows what my fears and weaknesses are. Funny thing is, that is exactly what the devil wants you to believe. You see, we are weak on our own and the devil knows this. He wants us to feel like we are alone and for us to think we shouldn't share our struggles, weaknesses, and hurts. Once we realize that we can't conquer our fears and prove our strength without our Lord and savior Jesus Christ, the devil has lost at his attempt to keep you from walking with the Lord. " I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Phillippians 4:13 As Christians we need to call on God in all things, but especially when we are facing our fears or a trial. I like to think that I am strong but I am only strong because I lean on the everlasting arms. I am strong because I cry out to God in my weakness. Don't get me wrong, I don't always cry out first, sometimes I waller in my pity and shame and then cry out.
  When I am struggling I don't want others to know, not even my friends, because they might view me differently. I don't want to lose the faith they have in me or their trust, or love. The truth is, if they are truly your friend they will continue to stand beside you and lift you up in prayer. If they decide to talk about your situation in a demeaning or gossiping way then that is between them and God. We are to put our relationship with Jesus first then everything else will fall into place. I will share a struggle of mine that I am facing right now. I am struggling with the fact that I miscarried almost a year ago and that I will forever have this void in my life. I pray daily that God will allow me to have peace and show me his will in my life. For the most part I have been fine especially when I call on the Lord but there are days that are bad. This is when I try to seek God's strength. I was in a dark place last year for Thanksgiving and I thank God that I'm not there anymore. I am thankful for the trial because I have grown closer to God through it all. We are called to be transparent so the people around us can see Jesus in us. I try daily to be transparent but I still struggle with letting people see my hurt, my fear, and my weaknesses. So today, I share a trial that I've gone through and a hurt that I face in hopes that God's glory will be revealed. I love my God more today than I did a year ago, and no words can express my gratitude. Today seek solace in your savior's hands, lean on him and know that we all are weak but are made strong through him. Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
*Bible verses taken from NIV Bible

In the eyes of a child

"And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven."  Matthew 18:3
 
  This week my son turns eight. The time seems to have flown by and my love has grown stronger for him. My son brings a smile to my face every day and I love to hear him rationalize things. Take this weekend for example; we took him and a couple of friends to Medieval Times in Dallas, TX. This was my son's first trip to Dallas and he was in awe at the sight of the skyscrapers aka the big buildings. When we arrived it was still daylight outside and the buildings seemed to loom over us. He lit up with excitement at the sight of the castle and once inside loved seeing all the knights and swords. He enjoyed the show and the food. He believed every detail they told him from the dragon tail soup to the bad guy being put in the dungeon for life. How easily it is for little ones to believe, and this is where adults have to come to the rescue sometimes and sometimes it's okay to let them believe. There are times the rational of our children is worrisome but once you realize they don't have the life experiences we have as adults you can begin to understand where they are coming from. After the show ended and we started our journey home my son and his friends saw the "big buildings" again but this time they were lit up. The lights were pretty and some buildings had the lights set to a timer and they changed colors or design. As we passed the big buildings my son said, “Daddy, I want to live in the city because they have pretty lights."
My husband responded, "Well....the city has good and bad things about it."
My son simply stated," I know, there are bad guys, but the city has pretty lights and that makes it okay."

My husband and I looked at each other and chuckled. As the weekend passed and I had time to reflect on the rational of my son I began to wonder what I could learn from this conversation. Are we willing to look past the murders and robberies for the pretty ligths? As adults, can we look past faults of others and bring them to Christ? We have yet to truly see pretty lights, and are often times blinded by the bad things in our life to focus on our father above. I don't know about you but I can't wait to see the place made of gold and the true source of light, but in the mean time I have to focus on the good that I can do to further the kingdom.
"Lift up your eyes to the heavens, look at the earth beneath; the heavens will vanish like smoke, the earth will wear out like a garment and its inhabitants die like flies. But my salvation will last forever, my righteousness will never fail." Isaiah 51:6 As your schedule becomes busy with shopping and gatherings this holiday season remember we should keep our eyes on heaven. The things of this earth will vanish but the act of mercy and grace will last a lifetime. Be childlike and seek the good in all things and people. Ask God to open your eyes and ears to make you aware of the pretty things that get in your way and to look past the bad things so we can help others. Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
*Bible verses used from NIV Bible

The day after

 I went to bed last night with Romney ahead in the presidential election but the prediction was that Obama would pull ahead and win. I reluctantly went to bed, but not once was I stressed about who would win. Why? I have learned that giving my cares and concerns over to God allows me to stress less and feel at peace. I laid down knowing that God was in control and he reigns. When I woke up I knew that no matter what the future of my country was in God's hands. I turned on the TV only to hear that Obama did win another four years in the Whitehouse. I will admit I was a little discouraged but again I know it's all in God's hands. God knew before I casted my vote yesterday who was going to win and in some strange way this brings me peace.
 Sadly, today has been a day when everyone feels the need to bash others for their views. Personally this saddens me and to some extent makes me sick. We are not to judge others and we certainly aren't showing our Christian beliefs by bashing those who do not vote the way we want them to. Jesus was not a republican or democrat nor would he be found the day after the election bashing the other side. He would want peace and friends, the only way to achieve that is to put aside our differences and pray to the one true God. In fact, instructions are left for us and they are as follows: "I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”1 Timothy 2:1-2   Don't look  at the other side and point fingers or lay blame on others. Instead fall to your knees and pray. Can you imagine the disappoinment the disciples felt the day after Jesus was crucified? They thought Jesus was the messiah here to establish his kingdom here on earth. They didn't grasp his purpose on earth until he was gone. If you voted for Romney you are feeling a bit disappointed today because you were hoping for a better tomorrow. A brighter future with a new president and the promise of a new beginning but instead we have the same president for four more years. We must lay this aside and look to heaven. Jesus died and rose again and one day will come back for us. This world is not our home and all things here will pass. Keep your eyes on heaven and remember what we are really created for. We are to glorify God. "Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us." 1 Peter 2:12 Today of all days, the day after the election we should all be living a life that glorifies God. A life that shows no matter who the president of this great country is our God is still God and ruler of all. As we end the first term of Obama's presidency and start the second remember we are given these instructions: "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." Micah 6:8 Please remember to pray for a revival for this great nation. Today I'm striving to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with my God. Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
*Bible verses taken from NIV Bible

Searching

  "But if from there you seek the Lord your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul." Deuteronomy 4:29

 Do you or have you ever felt like something is missing? Maybe you feel like you should be doing something but you're not sure what. I have spent a lot of time feeling like this. I have searched for the one thing that seemed to be missing from my life. Take a walk with me down memory lane, and let's see if you have ever felt this way.
 My life as a child was one that wasn't the worst but certainly wasn't the best. I grew up with hardships most folks face when they are grown. I learned about death of a parent(my dad) at the age of 7 and the death of a grandparent just a few months later. This was only the beginning of my hardships.....we can jump to the conclusion that I have searched for the love of a father.  As I became a teenager I was marked in school as an at risk student but never realized it until I took education classes in college. :) My search to fill a void in my life began during the trying years as a teenager. I wasn't popular nor did I feel important at home. My search caused me to put a lot of people on pedestals which only left me heartbroken and even more confused. " for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God," Romans 3:23 Even after I was saved I couldn't seem to fully grasp that all people fall short. I was searching for someone who was perfect who would treat me the way I wanted to be treated and not hurt me, intentionally or unintentionally. This didn't happen, and I would stop talking to people because they hurt me. I have ruined several friendships because I held my friends to such high standards. The simple thing would have been to realize that the only person who deserves for me to put them on a pedestal is God. He should be the person that I look to at all times, for all occasions and all relationships. I married my husband hoping he would feel the void in my life. The void was filled but only for a while, as with all things on earth the joy only lasts for a while. Don't get me wrong, I'm happily married, but the feeling that I was missing something was still there. By this time I was baptized and was attending church...so what was I looking for? It's simple but it will drive you crazy if you don't understand it. The void, that something missing, was a relationship with my savior, Jesus. I knew and believed in him and all the wonderful things he has done but my heart was yearning for more. "Anyone who chooses to do the will of God will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own." John 7:17 I wasn't fully committed to God's will in my life. I was still doing what I wanted to do and taking in what I heard at church but not truly acting on it or applying all of it to my life. So what was missing? It wasn't a relationship with family or friends but a relationship with my creator, my savior, my father, my friend. I was searching for a relationship with God. He is the only being that will always be there for you. He is the only one who can fill the void in your life. You can try to fill the missing piece with relationships or with material things but until you find him the void will only be filled for a little while. You are seeking him whether you realize it or not, but once you start seeking a relationship with him, he will be there. He promises never to leave us, just seek him and he's there. Put God on your perfect pedestal and no one else. My lessons have been learned the hard way and to be honest I'm still learning about pedestals. As a matter of fact, it's almost as if I have a default mode, new person, new friend, new pedestal.  I'm learning to give even the small things to God, but especially my relationships. Now I say new friend, new prayer, and instead of letting that friendship end in ruin I forgive them. I'm not perfect at it and sometimes I still act like the old Kim but once I pray and hand it over to God all is well. God knows what's going on with me and my friend as he does you and he will take care of it. I hope that you will stop searching in all the wrong places and start searching in the book left for us..Brief Instructions Before Leaving Earth for your answers. I have found what I was searching for and I pray that you will too. Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
*Bible verses taken from NIV Bible

Light Bulb Moment

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28

Have you ever been watching a movie, reading a book or talking to someone and ding the light bulb of understanding comes on? This happened to me this past Sunday. I was watching a movie called Encounter: Paradise Lost. This movie is a christian movie and it takes place on an island in Thailand where a drug dealer, his wife and body guard are going to a resort to meet the drug lord. The owners of the resort are still there and the agent who has been tracking the drug dealer shows up too. They are all stranded by a typhoon when Jesus shows up. No one believes it's him until he starts sharing personal information about each one and heals the drug dealers wife. It's a good movie, but this isn't what made the light bulb go off. There is a part in the movie when Jesus is talking to the resort owner about his son's death. The owner, Chris, kept blaming God for killing his son in a Tsunami several years before. Jesus explained that he did not kill his son. That God created all good things and when Adam and Eve sinned in the garden good was no longer on the earth. At that moment a light bulb came on...the room seemed brighter with my understanding and I began to cry.
 I realized two things. One, that God did not take my daddy from me when I was a little girl. Two, that I needed to ask God to forgive me for blaming him for taking my daddy and being mad at him. Amazing how God can show you what's in your heart by watching a movie. I did ask forgiveness for being mad at God and for blaming him for not only taking my daddy, but my granny and my miscarriage. A whole in my heart seemed to disappear when I did that. There is nothing more heart breaking than losing a loved one but knowing they are in heaven with a God who loves them and me is an anointment to the wound. Healing occurred Sunday night and all because I watched a movie. I can now say that I understand the verse in Romans that talks about God works good for all those who love him. "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28 I may not understand why, but I do understand that God only does good things for me. It may hurt, and the emotions that come with it are normal but finding a peace that only God can give is important. Turn to him and the strength to move on will be given. Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
Bible verse taken from NIV Bible.

Irreplaceable

In the world we live in today most people view you as replaceable. This fast paced world with such high ambitions of becoming rich and famous or the top person in your field of choice teaches us that indeed we are and can be replaced. Sadly, we learn quickly that being courteous and sensitive to others can actually leave you as the low man on the totem pole. You have to be a go getter and willing to step on toes to get ahead in today's world. Look out for numero uno and you will go far and get ahead but what happened to putting others first? I know a lot of people and I use to be one of them that feels as if they are irreplaceable. This couldn't be farther from the truth. The definition for irreplaceable on dictionary.com is incapable of being replaced; unique. They teach you early in your career that you are replaceable just mess up a couple times and you will find out. The truth is you shouldn't look at yourself as being replaceable. True there is someone out there who can do the job that you are doing right now, but there is no one that is made exactly the same as you. God created each one of us different from the other. We are unique and he chose you to do a certain job for him that no one else can do. Hence, the word irreplaceable. There is no one else that can do the job that God created you to do. Your work for the kingdom can be done by no one else but you. You may be replaceable for the workforce or feel like you are being used and abused around your house, but remember God sees what you are doing. He knows your struggles and hurts. We may feel like we should be replaced because we are burned out, but again no one can do your job quite like you. "You turn things upside down, as if the potter were thought to be like the clay! Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it, “You did not make me”? Can the pot say to the potter, “You know nothing”?" Isaiah 29:16 We tend to get caught up in the small tasks of our lives and lose focus on why we are really here. When things don't go the way we think we start asking questions and complaining. We, and I am included in this, need to remember that God created us specifically for his purpose and though we feel confused he knows exactly what to do and where we are going. My friend go about your day focusing on bringing him Glory and realizing that you are in fact irreplaceable. Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
*Bible verse taken from NIV Bible

Admiration

"Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children." Proverbs 17:6
  
   I don't think there is a parent around who wouldn't agree that their child is a blessing from God. The moment you know you are pregnant there is a bond between you and baby that no one can take away. The day they are born and you hold them your heart is so full of love that you think it's going to explode. A blessing indeed, but what about as they grow? You still see them as a blessing but they start seeing you and I mean the real you. They see the person you are in public and at home. Are you a parent they can be proud of? My heart has been full of love for my kids since I found out I was pregnant with them but this past Friday night made my heart grow fonder of my husband and kids.
  My son who is seven and in less than a month will be eight does not really care to go to our hometown football games. This past Friday was the first chance we had to go see my husband at his school's football game. I told my son we were going to the game and he started to ask if he had to go, but before he could finish I told him we were going to watch his daddy's band. His eyes lit up and he never finished asking if he could stay home with his Papaw. The minute my husband met us until the minute we had to leave my son was attached to his daddy. He followed him around everywhere. The look of pride and admiration in our sons eyes put me in awe. I realized at that moment how proud our son was to call my husband his daddy and how much he enjoyed spending time with him. Our son was able to watch the football game with the band, he watched the band from the field and helped his daddy take care of somethings for the band. He grew taller Friday night, taller with pride. His eyes sparkled with joy and not once did he ask if we could go home. He truly enjoyed being at the game and experiencing it all with his daddy.
  I have not given much thought to the verse above in Proverbs, which states that parents are the pride of their children. "Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children." Proverbs 17:6 I can see how children are a pride to their parents but I didn't understand this verse until Friday night. I witnessed my son's pride of his daddy. We as parents, need to remember that our children are most definitely a blessing from God, but our children watch us closely and take pride in who we are to them. Take the time to be the Godly parent you are called to be. We all come from different back grounds and life experiences but it's clear how we should treat our children. Be a parent that your children are proud of but more importantly one that God smiles upon. As you go about your day, take a moment to let your kids know how much you love them and that they are a blessing to you. Spend some quality time with them and watch their eyes light up. Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
*Bible verse taken from NIV Bible

God's provisions

I have told you that I resigned from my job as a junior high teacher and started babysitting for my cousin. I love being able to stay home, the house stays clean, well cleaner than it did when I was working. The kids love me dropping them off and picking them up from school. I normally have supper ready at a decent hour. I also like that when one of them is sick I can just go pick them up and not worry about getting docked pay. Being at home is what God has asked me to do, but we have already hit a few bumps in the road. I'm not making as much money obviously with babysitting than I was teaching but God has managed to show me he truly has all my financial concerns covered. It started in August when a friend of mine asked if I would host a scentsy party for her. I agreed and she had an awesome party which means my commission was good. Then about a week later a lady that attended the party asked if I would host a party for her. I agreed and gave thanks to God for helping me in my scentsy business. Now, I have another lady who is interested in me hosting a party. This is wonderful news for me and my family and I pray this continues to happen. God is truly blessing me, but it doesn't stop with my scentsy business. My husband and I are learning to live day by day, week by week and sometimes my stomach hurts from the realization that we could be late on a payment. Then God steps in and someone gives us extra money, and just last week a letter from a previous bank shows we still have money in that account. Just today we found out a bill doesn't have to be paid this month. Wow, he is truly amazing. God has met us right where we are. We do not have "extra" money but we are living week by week on exactly what he provides for us. I know this seems extreme but I know in my heart God wants me at home and by these provisions I feel he is showing me that I am doing what he wants me to do. "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?" Matthew 6:25 By no means have we had to worry about food, or clothes but paying bills yes. God has shown me that there is no since in worrying and honestly I believe him. He has provided for us and right when we need it. I am in shock but I am completely at peace with my life and where God is leading me. I pray that you can find that peace today. Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
*Bible Verse taken from NIV Bible

Pride

How easy is it to fall to pride? How easy is it to say look at what I have done or what I am doing? Do you not feel accomplished when other people say great job or you are the best? It's just a compliment right?
 "From the least to the greatest, all are greedy for gain; prophets and priests alike, all practice deceit." Jeremiah 6:13 Did you read that? From the least to the greatest. My thoughts are from children to our elders all struggle with greed and pride. If the prophets and priests who are suppose to be the people with a very close relationship with God struggle with this, then it should come as no surprise that everyone else does. Pride sneaks up on us most of us. It's not like we all walk around saying look at my master piece or look at how good I am. Again, I say most people are not this way. The trick to remember is we are all given different gifts from God and should remember that God makes it possible for us to use those gifts. We all want to hear well done and get the pat on the back when we do a great job.  We shouldn't let it go to our heads. The work we do here on earth should glorify God and we should always give him the praise and thanks due when we receive our pats on the backs and well dones. When we start thinking we did something on our own, or start wanting the attention for the outstanding work finished then we start to slip into the prideful mindset. In Obadiah verse three it states that pride deceives the heart. "The pride of your heart has deceived you,..." Obadiah 1:3 It starts with a little and slowly we are deceived by our hearts, by our feelings and emotions. We want to be something to somebody and be accepted so we let little things get to us and become full of pride. It's important to remember who we are and that we do mean something to somebody. I know that I am the daughter of God, a sister to Christ and I mean the world to him. God should be who we find our need of acceptance in. Since we live in a world that focuses on me,me,me it's easy to get caught up in our plans. We have to remember we serve a greater purpose and his plans are far better than ours. So today do not be discouraged when you don't get noticed or your dream doesn't seem to be coming true. Take a deep breath, thank God for his blessings and seek his will. Let go of the pride that craves the attention and the kudos of a job well done and give it all to God. Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
*Bible verses taken from NIV Bible

How long do you trust God?

"Gideon replied, "If now I have found favor in your eyes, give me a sign that it is really you talking to me." Judges 6:17
 I started praying about my teaching job last October and I asked God to show me an answer. I prayed day and night all the way until May and then I got my answer. I wish I could sit here today and say that I have fully and completely trusted God, but I haven't. I guess I should say I trust God and know he will take care of me but the minute something comes up that puts my family in a bind my stomach knots up and I'm second guessing what I know I should be doing. I heard my answer loud and clear and that answer was for me to resign as a teacher and stay home. The journey of me staying at home has started off very bumpy. I babysit one baby and others as needed, but here lately that hasn't worked out. When this happens I start to question if I should stay at home or find another job. Then I remind myself that I am doing what God wants me to do and he will provide. This is when I feel like Gideon because I find myself saying, "Ok, God, you want me to stay home but why is it all this keeps happening? Give me a sign that this is still what you want me to do." I laugh thinking about it, because God isn't the one changing his mind, it's me and my lack of trust or more like the lack of wanting to let go of the control I feel like I have when I'm working. You see, without my income as a teacher, I have to fully trust that God will provide for us. He has already proven to me several times that he will provide. "To the faithful you show yourself faithful, to the blameless you show yourself blameless." 2 Samuel 22:26 So, what do I do when I hit a bump in the road? I look to God and say," I am giving it to you and I know you will provide." It is hard for me to do that but I know that he will take care of me and that is all I can do. The rest is out of my control. Does that mean my stomach doesn't knot up, no, it just means that I keep reminding myself that God is faithful and will provide. I do not understand why I've hit so many bumps already but I do know that I can trust my God. "The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy." Psalm 111:7 My God is mightier than any problem I will ever face and I find peace in knowing that all will be okay when I lean on him. "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." Hebrews 11:1 God knows what I hope for but more importantly I know his plans for me are far better than anything I could dream. So, how long do you trust God? I will trust him until he calls me home, and apologize for any doubts I may have along the way. Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
*Bible verses taken from NIV Bible.

All Seeing

 I love being able to take my kids to school in the morning. This morning we were talking about having a good day when my son who is seven asked me how I knew we were going to have a good day. I told him because God is with us and since we have God nothing can be against us. This apparently sent his mind into overdrive. He then asked me how can God see everybody. I told him that God is that powerful, he can see everybody because he is everywhere. My answer apparently wasn't right, so he replied, "It's because God is that big, he can see one side of the world with one eye and the other side of the world with the other eye." :) Something so complicated, yet so simple. I love that he was able to understand this concept in his own way. He didn't make it difficult, like I was trying to do even though I gave a simple answer. I came home and looked up some verses on God seeing everyone. I came across three verses that really stuck out. The first verse came from Job and it states,"His eyes are on the ways of men; he sees their every step." Job 34:21 Sure enough, plain as day there is the verse that says God sees you. He is watching your every step. This is here to make us aware that God knows what we are doing. He is not only watching your step and mine but every person that walks this earth. It is amazing that he can watch over 7 billion people at one time. "For a man's ways are in full view of the LORD, and he examines all his paths." Proverbs 5:21 Even though there are over 7 billion people on this earth and buildings, cars, trees, and other objects that block our view, God can still see what we are doing. I picture it like God has a view from an airplane, only we don't look like ants to him. He can see us just as we appear but more importantly what's on our hearts and minds. Unlike this world, he does not look at us for our outward appearances, but takes notice and judges us based on our inward appearance and actions.
   Proverbs clearly says he can see our paths. When I normally think of a path I think about where I am going. God not only knows what way we are going but in this particular verse I think paths means he knows every decision we make. Everything you do you could have chosen not to do. At the time your decision to do or not to do something seems small but it leads you down a path that either reflects your beliefs or contradicts your beliefs. In this way he sees your path more clearly than you do. "My eyes are on all their ways; they are not hidden from me, nor is their sin concealed from my eyes." Jeremiah 16:17 This verse lets me know that my walk is being watched from the time I wake up to the time I lay down. Every little thing and every big thing that I do throughout my day is seen in full view by God. This should not make us feel guilty for what we do, but to realize that we will be held accountable for our actions. God loves us too much to let us roam this earth without him being here with us and watching what we do. He is not watching us to condemn us, instead he wants to be there for us. To help you and guide you through your journey on earth. If he wasn't watching how would he know when we needed his help or when we were sinking into a sinful pit? His power is amazing to say the least, and the fact that he uses it to help me leaves me speechless. As you go about your day, try to think of your decisions and if they reflect your beliefs. I hope you know that God loves you and is with you in everything you do.  Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
*Bible verses taken from NIV Bible.

Daddy's Hands

I have something that I am working on, a book I'll go ahead and throw that out there. That book shares the title with this blog. Many of you grew up with a daddy. I did not. I learned a lot from just writing my story. It was a healing process for me. I have Bible verses throughout my book and tonight I want to share the first one with you. "Yet, O, Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand." Isaiah 64:8 I have heard this verse periodically in my Christian life, but it didn't sink in until I did the homework for a Bible study.  The first part of the verse clearly states that God is our Father.  How is he our father? He created us but he also guides, protects, disciplines, and loves us. Now that is starting to sound like a father here on earth, right? That's because a father here on earth should follow the example of our Father in heaven. You may not feel his guidance, protection or love but he is there. You may only know his discipline or you may know nothing of God. You may be at a point in your life where you feel like God has abandoned you. Just remember he tells us he will never forsake us. We only need to draw near to him. "Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." James 4:8 The second part of Isaiah 64:8 states that we are the clay and God is the potter. If you watch a potter make a jar or bowl from clay you will see that everything has to be just right. The amount of clay and water used has to be perfect. Too much water and the clay won't form. Too much clay and it'll become a clump. The speed the wheel is turning for the potter to mold the clay has to be just right too.  If you go too fast the mold will lose shape but if you go too slow you won't be able to mold the clay. God knows just the right amount of water and clay to use to make us. He also knows how fast to spin the wheel to shape us. Every day God is shaping us and molding us into the person he wants us to be. The person that is created to glorify him. The next time you go through a trial just remember God is using it to mold you into the person he wants you to be. I am so thankful that I have a Father in heaven who loves, protects, guides and disciplines me all so I can rightfully be called his. You may not have a true father, or as we call them in the south, daddy, but you will always have a Father. Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
*Bible verses taken from NIV Bible

Missions/outreach

I want to start today off by saying that all my previous posts and ones from this day forward reflect only my thoughts. Most of my posts have been things that I struggle with. I do not intend to come off as preaching a sermon or as a Bible scholar. I have the schooling of neither a pastor or Biblical theologian. I pray before I write, ask for God's guidance, and pray after I write. I struggle just like everybody else, so when I'm writing, I am talking to myself and hopefully it's useful for you too.
  Mission/Outreach has been on my heart pretty heavy lately. I have never been on a mission trip and would like to go on one. I would really like to start doing more mission work here in the town I live in. We are called as Christians, as the body of Christ, to do work for God. We need to get out there and see what needs are in our community and start meeting those needs. Not only can you help other Christians but you can help nonbelievers and through Christ bring them to know him as their savior.  "Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few." Matthew 9:37  I live in a small town, and I know there are a lot of people at home when I go to church. I can't say they are nonbelievers but I can say if they are then I need to be reaching them. I want all people to know the glory of God, I have been given a gift and I want to share it. There is a stirring in my heart to get started, get moving, but I often answer back how. I have thought of a few ideas and have shared with others including my pastor. I hope that if you have this same burning in your soul that you will do the same. James tells us in chapter two that we should be doing good deeds.
"14 What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? 15 Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food.16 If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it?17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.18 But someone will say, "You have faith; I have deeds." Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do." James 2:14-18
  I know God can and will do great things. The hard part is getting out of my comfort zone and moving on with what I know He is calling me to do. "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me." John 14:1 I am taking this as, do not meditate on my feelings, instead trust in God. By trusting in God I am able to let go of my feelings and do great things for him. Starting today, I will step out of my comfort zone and start the works that God has called me to do. I want to challenge you to start something in your community. It may be small, that's ok, you can't expect to start big. As long as God is in what you're doing it will show and great things will come from it. So let's follow in the disciples footsteps: "The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them." Matthew 21:6 Will you step out of your comfort zone and find something you can do? Just listen to that small voice, and He will tell you where he wants you. Go, even if your friends aren't. Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
*Bible verses taken from NIV Bible

Pew Pinchers

It is my belief that every church has at least one pew pincher. You know the person that has a pinched expression on their face Sunday morning that matches the pinched grip they have on the pew. This person's face is drawn up so tight you're afraid they will snap at you if you dare talk to them. The same person who sits hugged up against the pew, and you know not to ask if you can sit beside them. They don't dare stand up or leave their pew for fear of someone taking "their" spot. As someone who did not grow up in a church and slightly shy upon my first meeting you, I am intimidated by these people. They make people like me want to look for somewhere else to attend. There could be several reasons why someone does this. One, they are shy and prefer to be left alone. Two, they really don't want you sitting by them. Three, they don't realize they are coming off as a grumpy pew pincher.
  "The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself." Galatians 5:14
For some strange reason Christians can love their neighbor all week long but you put them in church and they forget this command. If you sit by or around a pew pincher I want to challenge you to break the ice. Make it your goal to wipe the pinched look off their face. Wouldn't it be great if you even made them smile. But how, you ask? Take a look back at reason one, the pew pincher is shy. This person is not intentionally being rude but is afraid to speak to someone they don't know. Simply walk up to this person say good morning and extend a hand to shake or a hug to wrap them in. This will probably help calm their nerves. Look at pew pincher two, this person really wants to be left alone. You don't know their problems and they want to keep it that way. It's ok, if this person feels this way, but we are told to love our neighbor, so intentionally walk up to them extend your hand and say good morning. Pew pincher number three really doesn't mean to come off that way and probably doesn't know you see them as grumpy. Take the initiative and walk over to them, extend your hand and say good morning. Every time you see your pew pincher at church walk up to them and say hi. Eventually, they will let loose of the pew and they will smile when being greeted. Keep in mind you really don't know what's going on in some one's life, so try not to be critical of those around you, especially those pew pinchers in your congregation. The hardest thing to do is love someone when they least deserve it, but love might be the one thing they need. Let's start loving our neighbors even the ones that are hard to love. Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.      

Church....why go?

Do you find yourself asking, why is it important to go to church?  I did for a long time. I grew up knowing about God and Jesus but we did not attend church regularly. I was told that it doesn't matter if you go to church. The important thing is you believe in God. Even after I married, I struggled with why it was so important to go to church. I was still just a baby in my walk with Christ. I didn't see that every time I went to church I was getting fed.  Getting fed what? I was learning about God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. I was learning how to apply the Bible to my life, but it wasn't really sticking.  Was this the churches fault? I would say partially, but most of the blame lies on me. The importance of going to church starts with learning about God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit but doesn't stop there. The people in the church should become people you fellowship with, not because you have to but because you want to. These people should hold you accountable in your walk and you in theirs. We are called as the body of Christ to do works for Him. "to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up" Ephesians 4:12 Dare I say the church, the body of Christ, is only as strong as it's weakest, least mature Christian?  I bow my head in shame to say that up until a year ago, I was a weak link. "From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work." Ephesians 4:16  I wasn't a part of any fellowships with other Christians, and wasn't going to church as often as I should. I can sit here all afternoon and tell you how going to church changed me, but what I really want to get across to you is you should go to church. You are a Christian and the only way you can learn how to be the light of this world is to attend a church, but not just attend become involved. The more you attend church, the more you become involved the more you grow in your walk. So to answer my question,why go to church, you can't expect God to do great things in your life when you only let God in your life part time. Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
*Bible Verses taken from NIV Bible

Check Your Want to Gage

Good Afternoon. I've had a wonderful day playing with a sweet little girl. I was sitting here thinking and praying about what I should write about. Today I think I'll write about your want to. I know it doesn't sound Biblical and well for the most part it's not.  I want to  think about what your church is like? What do you gripe about every Sunday when you leave church? Is there some activities that you wish your church would have? 
  Let me tell you that I use to be the person who would complain about something that bothered me every Sunday. Then I realized, that wasn't very Christian like. The devil was having a field day with me and on Sundays of all days, because instead of focusing on the Sunday school lesson or the sermon I was searching for something to go wrong, something to not like. I didn't do this knowingly, nope, my subconscious was working overtime.  Do you know what changed my heart? Realizing that every person in the church was going through something. We are all in church because we are sinners, we are sick, and in need of renewal. Do you know who changed my heart?  You probably guessed, it wasn't my husband, it was Jesus. He started to show me the true importance of church. You make a choice to find something to complain about or something to brag about." Do everything without complaining or arguing," Philippians 2:14   Make the choice to find something to like about your church.  May I suggest that instead of complaining because your church doesn't have something you feel they should have find out why they don't have it. Spend sometime in prayer, maybe God is showing you what he wants you to be a part of. He could be calling you to start a ministry or for you to talk to your Pastor about your concern. Open your heart and mind to what God wants for you and your church. We know he wants what's best for us. The best place for Christians is fellowship with other Christians...church, Sunday School, gatherings outside of the church, Bible studies. So it all goes back to your want to. Do you want to complain? Do you want to brag?  Do you want to be involved in your church's ministries? Do you want to stay home? So, have you checked your want to gage lately? Are you on E, as in escape all things to do with being a Christian? Are you on F, as in full of the Holy Spirit and ready to move forward in your walk? Are you in the middle, some days you wish you could escape the confines of being the "good" Christian and some days you are walking with God faithfully? My friend check your want to, then spend some time in prayer. God will take you from E to F but you have to be willing. Be in His word daily and pray without ceasing. Your want to level will start being on F consistently. I hope you have a blessed weekend.  Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you. 
*Bible verses from NIV Bible

What Can I Do?

"Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed." Psalm 82:3

    Have you ever felt like you weren't doing enough?  Maybe you are doing all you know to do and feel like this is all I can give.  I often feel like I am not good enough or trained enough to help those in need.  Then there are times that I think of something I would like to do but quickly shut myself down because I say there is already something like that.  I have to remind myself that if God wants me to do it He will make sure I'm good enough or trained to help.  Instead of worrying about not being good enough I need to focus on how I can help.  We are all given gifts, and no one has the exact same gifts.  "We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith."         Romans 12:6  We need to spend time in prayer and ask God how can we use our gifts to glorify him.  It is our job to help those with less than we have but it is also our job to make sure we are using our gifts the way God wants us to.  Do not get discouraged if you are the only one wanting to do something.  Try not to compare yourself to others, but instead look up to God.  Set your eyes on him and follow His path for you.  There will be times when you feel like someone else is better for the job or just as equally skilled at the task before you.  Do not doubt that God wants you to be the one on the job or doing that task.  There is a reason that you are the one doing the job or task and not someone else.  More than I would like to say, I tell myself I can't give because I don't have enough for my family.  We can always give our time or something besides money to help.  Remember the lady who gave all she had.  God blessed her and you know what, he will bless you too. "All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on." Luke 21:4  As the holiday season approaches and your heart turns more towards helping others, ask God to show you where he wants you.  Once the season ends, keep seeking his guidance. Don't let your giving heart only last for a season, but for a lifetime.  So today I am asking, God what can I do?  Be patient, let him answer you and have courage to follow through.  Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
*Bible verses taken from NIV Bible

Are you Ashamed?

"After I strayed, I repented; after I came to understand, I beat my breast. I was ashamed and humiliated because I bore the disgrace of my youth."  Jeremiah 31:19

    Are you ashamed and humiliated of your youth?  Maybe it's not your youth as in childhood but youth as a young adult.  I am writing today because I have felt and sometimes still do feel ashamed of my past.  Did you read the first part of Jeremiah 31:19?  After I strayed, I repented.  This is very important for all believers to remember something that we must all hold on to.  The Bible tells us over and over if we repent we are forgiven.  It even tells us we are blessed if our sins are forgiven. "Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered." Psalm 32:1 How can we be blessed from a messy past?  How can God forgive you for not being faithful to him?  It's simple, Jesus died on the cross to cover all of our sins.  That my friend is why we are blessed even if we sin.  We have to remember to ask for forgiveness but the second those words,"forgive me", comes out of our mouths, we are forgiven.  When God sees you, he doesn't see all the bad but he does see a child that he loves.  If you have accepted Jesus as your savior then his blood makes your sin whiter than snow.  So do not be ashamed to talk of your past.  Do not keep it from others when your testimony might help others.  "So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God," 2Timothy 1:8  Seek what good came from whatever it is you're ashamed of.  What is so bad that God will not protect you?  If you share your testimony, you are sharing how God has worked in your life.  We are called to share the word and spread the good news.  You may feel like you are the only person who has gone through a particular struggle, but when you start sharing you will find you are not alone.  "But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you." Psalm 5:11  As you find refuge in the Lord, He will protect you.  He and only He can give you the courage it takes to tell others something so hurtful that might cause them to change how they feel about you.  As you go about your day today ask God if there is something you are ashamed of, and are afraid of sharing.  We, as Christians, like to put on a show and say I'm good and pretend nothing bad has happened, is happening or will happen to us.  The truth is if something hasn't happened, is  not happening then it will happen.  Don't hide in shame, turn to the Lord, he will walk you through it.  Ask him to show you where you can help someone by sharing your testimony.  "However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name." 1 Peter 4:16  Give God the praise, and keep looking to him.  Don't let pride get in the way of showing others what God has brought you through. Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you. 
*Bible verses used from NIV

Your Tongue

I'm sure we have all heard how important it is to hold our tongue and  that you can really hurt someone with words.  As kids we all use to say: "sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me."  I know I use to say it, but in all honesty the words do hurt.  They may not break your bones but they can break your spirit.  Those words can leave bruises so deep that I call them soul bruises.  You know the hurt you had when you were a child and someone brings up or states it when you are grown.  The pain that instantly throws you back to your childhood and leaves you wanting to run from it.  Maybe it's not from your childhood, but a bad relationship. I have several soul bruises but through God's grace I am being healed.  Words do hurt and that's why we are instructed as Christians to guard our tongues.  "He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity."  Psalm 21:23  There are times we say things before we think, and we end up hurting someone.  Other times we think about what we are going to say and know exactly how it will effect the other person, and rightfully so.  You can be a "good" person and still have an untamed tongue.  The tongue is a small part of the human body, but consider a rope tied to a tree and a swing.  The rope seems to be small but you don't notice the fraying middle.  As you start to swing the ropes starts unraveling, and the faster  you swing the fast it unravels. The rope snaps and caused you to fall.  You may not be hurt badly but you are stunned from the fall.   Your tongue is the same, you can unravel a relationship with a few hurtful words all because you didn't take a moment to think.  You are so worked up about something you speak faster and faster and unknowingly or maybe knowingly snap the rope that  holds your relationship together.  James tells us that the tongue may be small but how quickly does a small spark cause a forest fire?  "Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark."  James 3:5  We need to realize that we can not tame our tongues, but we can ask God to guide our words. "but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison." James 3:8  Instead of using our tongues to hurt others we need to use them to encourage others.  The best way to guard your tongue is to stay in the word and sing God's praises.  We need to speak what is rightful and true.  We should keep from speaking lies and hurtful things just like the Psalmist says,"keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies." Psalm 34:13  There are times when we are being tested, especially by a loved one but we must keep in mind what we reply back can break them.  We need to love others no matter how bad they hurt us.  After all how often do we hurt God but still receive his blessings and love?  For me, it's daily and I'm thankful that He loves me even when I hurt him.  This is what I strive to show others around me but more importantly show my kids.  I do not want to break them or cause soul bruises that they will have to deal with for the rest of their lives.  My prayer for today is that I guard my tongue and speak of His righteousness.  "My tongue will speak of your righteousness and of your praises all day long." Psalm 35:28  Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
*Bible verses are take from NIV Bible

Giving In

Good morning.  I wrote this blog a few weeks ago but did not post it.  I am in a Bible study learning about God and  His divine intervention in Jonah's life so I thought I would share this with you today.

  “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7
 
    Have you been hurting recently?  Are you holding on to past hurts?  If so, God wants you to give in to your struggle, hurt, or burden by giving in to Him.  Giving in is always the last thing we want to do.  We don’t like giving in because we feel defeated.  When we give in to God we are not defeated.  God doesn’t want to see you hurt and struggling anymore.  Grab your Father’s hand and let Him guide you.  Remember the story of Jonah?  When God told Jonah what he wanted him to do, Jonah ran the other way.  Look where that got him; thrown into a violent sea for a whale to swallow him.  Maybe you can relate.  You have felt God’s tug on your heart to give in but you have been running away.  You weren’t or are not ready to confront your hurt.  Maybe you’re ready but afraid of the outcome.  Let’s look at the beginning of Jonah’s prayer:
“He said: In my distress I called to the Lord, and he answered me.  From deep in the realm of the dead I call for help, and you listened to my cry.” Jonah 2:2  
Jonah knew he could die in the stomach of the whale.  He cried out to God and gave in to His will.  Maybe you are in the “depths of the sea” with the waters crashing over you.  Are you possibly in the darkest pit of your life?  Cry out to God, like Jonah did and He will deliver you.  The only thing you need to do is give in.  Give in to your hurt and let God begin to heal you.  That’s right, I’m asking you to break down, cry and scream if needed.  Pour your heart out to God.  I can’t promise that the journey of healing your hurt will be easy; as a matter of fact it will be hard.  I can promise that God will be with you the entire way.  “Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes, with your right hand you save me.” Psalm 138:7 When you give in and cry out to God you are taking the first step in the healing process.  The first step is always uncertain, like a baby taking its first step, but soon you will see you are on solid ground.  Pray to God, seek His will, and ask for His guidance.  The healing will come and you will feel like a new person.  You will feel like a new person because your faith is growing and you are submitting and relying on God.  “In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”  Proverbs 3:5  
When we give in to God great things will happen.  Will you give in?  Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you. 
*Verses are taken from NIV Bible

Deception

Good afternoon.  I hope your day has been as blessed as mine.  After talking about martyr yesterday I felt like God was telling me to write about deception today.  No one likes to be deceived and unless someone is joking with you, it really hurts your feelings when it happens.  Being deceived has a way of making you feel vulnerable, which no one likes.  It gives you a sense of insecurity.  So why do we deceive people?  Is it to get what we most desire?  How about just to make someone feel bad?  The world is full of deception and we as Christians have to stay on guard.  Deception goes all the way back to the beginning of time, to The Garden of Eden.  We all know the story of the serpent, a.k.a. Satan; deceiving Eve. "Then the LORD God said to the woman, "What is this you have done?" The woman said, "The serpent deceived me, and I ate." Genesis 3:13  This one trick changed the course of our lives forever.  It should come as no surprise when we are deceived by others.  Our children learn real quick how to lie so they can stay out of trouble.  It's human nature, it's the flesh, we are sinners at birth."Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death." Matthew 10:21 Jesus was talking to his disciples in the book of Matthew so they would know exactly what to expect of people. We as parents can only correct our children and teach them that it is wrong to deceive others.  As they grow up we need to make them aware that people will deceive them. 
    Sadly, this world is turning away from God and therefore making it easier for a little deception to get you to the top of the ladder.  It use to be if you worked hard you would get to the top of the ladder, but now you have to watch it because the person at the top may be the best deceiver, not the over achiever.  "You live in the midst of deception; in their deceit they refuse to acknowledge me," declares the LORD" Jeremiah 9:6  There is not a lot that has changed from Jeremiah's time when it comes to deception.  People are more creative than they use to be and will try to scam any person, but Christians seem to be an easy target.  Don't fall prey to the deceivers of this world.  Stand strong in your faith, help others as we have been commanded and let your light shine.  Do not be discouraged or afraid of those who deceive but instead keep doing what you know is right.  "When calamity comes, the wicked are brought down, but even in death the righteous have a refuge" Proverbs 14:32  Remember the wicked will pay for their wrong doings but that is for God to judge.  We will have a place of refuge today, tomorrow and for eternity. Thank God the great deceiver has already been defeated, that happened when Jesus died and rose again. Don't let this world, as full of deception as it is, bring you down.  Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.

Martyr

I, like you, have heard the word martyr a lot.  I have heard it in church and outside of church, but what exactly does it mean.  I heard martyr used in a different way than what I am used to hearing it during Bible study and wanted to know more.  I took a moment to look up the word on dictionary.com.  I can give you the definition that I have heard in church but I want to be correct.  I found four definitions but two stand out.  The first definition of a martyr is a person who willingly suffers death rather than renounce his or her religion.  When I think of this meaning, which I have heard in church, my mind turns to Stephen the first martyr of the church.  "While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Acts 7:59  Stephen was a great leader of the church and follower of Jesus Christ.  Stephen was accused of blasphemy and was stoned to death.  He stood strong in his faith and belief that Jesus Christ is the son of God.  Stephen did not back down even when he was pressured by others.  He did not turn his back on God when they started stoning him.  I pray that I will always stand strong in my faith and that I would not deny my Lord and savior, no matter the situation.  I want to stand strong and be courageous like God told Joshua.  "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9  I, too, if ever faced with renouncing my God or face death want to be like Stephen and pray for those who persecute me and welcome my death knowing I will be received in heaven. 
   I do not want to be like the fourth definition I found of martyr.  The fourth definition of martyr on dictionary.com says a person who seeks sympathy or attention by feigning or exaggerating pain, deprivation, etc.  How different can this meaning be from the first?  A martyr in this sense wants you to feel sorry for them for the pain they are going through.  Not only do they want you to feel sorry for them but they exaggerate the pain so you will be sure to know how bad their pain or situation is and give sympathy.  This definition reminds me of a child who learns that if they fall and cry someone will quickly come to them.  So what does that child do they next time they want something or fall and want the attention of an adult?  They start crying, how fast children learn these things surprises me, but adults do this too.  There are people who want the negative in their life brought to every one's attention so they can get sympathy.  Please hear me, I'm not saying that you shouldn't share your struggles.  We are told to do so and to carry others burdens, but we are not to exaggerate what we are going through.  Life is hard and we all go through hard times.  We depend on others and others depend on us, that's why God gave us family and friends.  This is not meant to judge, but instead to open my eyes and hopefully yours on what a martyr is.  I didn't realize there are two definitions that were so different.  As I go about my day I pray that I am like Stephen, a man; well woman in my case, full of faith. (Acts 6:5)  Which definition of martyr do you want to be?  Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.