I just always wanted to do this.
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Monday, December 17, 2007
This is Woman!
By the time the Lord made woman, He was into his sixth day of working overtime.
An angel appeared and said, "Why are you spending so much time on this one?"
And the Lord answered, "Have you seen my spec sheet on her? She has to be completely washable, but not plastic, have over 200 movable parts, all replaceable and able to run on diet coke and leftovers, have a lap that can hold four children at one time, have a kiss that can cure anything from a scraped knee to a broken heart -and she will do everything with only two hands."
The angel was astounded at the requirements. "Only two hands!? No way! And that's just on the standard model? That's too much work for one day. Wait until tomorrow to finish."
"But I won't," the Lord protested. "I am so close to finishing this creation that is so close to my own heart.
She already heals herself when she is sick AND can work 18 hour days."
The angel moved closer and touched the woman. "But you have made her so soft, Lord."
"She is soft," the Lord agreed, "but I have also made her tough. You have no idea what she can endure or accomplish.
"Will she be able to think?", asked the angel.
The Lord replied, "Not only will she be able to think, she will be able to reason and negotiate." The angel then noticed something, and reaching out, touched the woman's cheek. "Oops, it looks like you have a leak in this model. I told you that you were trying to put too much into this one." "That's not a leak," the Lord corrected, "that's a tear!"
"What's the tear for?" the angel asked.
The Lord said, "The tear is her way of expressing her joy, her sorrow, her pain, her disappointment, her love, her loneliness, her grief and her pride."
The angel was impressed. "You are a genius, Lord. You thought of everything! Woman is truly amazing."
And she is! Women have strengths that amaze men.
They bear hardships and they carry burdens, but they hold happiness, love and joy.
They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy and laugh when they are nervous.
They fight for what they believe in.
They stand up to injustice.
They don't take "no" for an answer when they believe there is a better solution.
They go without so their family can have.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel and cheer when their friends get awards.
They are happy when they hear about a birth or a wedding.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They grieve at the loss of a family member, yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left.
They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart.
Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.
They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you to show how much they care about you.
The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning.
They bring joy, hope and love.
They have compassion and ideals.
They give moral support to their family and friends.
Women have vital things to say and everything to give.
HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN, IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.
PLEASE pass this along to all your women friends and relatives to remind them just how amazing they are.
An angel appeared and said, "Why are you spending so much time on this one?"
And the Lord answered, "Have you seen my spec sheet on her? She has to be completely washable, but not plastic, have over 200 movable parts, all replaceable and able to run on diet coke and leftovers, have a lap that can hold four children at one time, have a kiss that can cure anything from a scraped knee to a broken heart -and she will do everything with only two hands."
The angel was astounded at the requirements. "Only two hands!? No way! And that's just on the standard model? That's too much work for one day. Wait until tomorrow to finish."
"But I won't," the Lord protested. "I am so close to finishing this creation that is so close to my own heart.
She already heals herself when she is sick AND can work 18 hour days."
The angel moved closer and touched the woman. "But you have made her so soft, Lord."
"She is soft," the Lord agreed, "but I have also made her tough. You have no idea what she can endure or accomplish.
"Will she be able to think?", asked the angel.
The Lord replied, "Not only will she be able to think, she will be able to reason and negotiate." The angel then noticed something, and reaching out, touched the woman's cheek. "Oops, it looks like you have a leak in this model. I told you that you were trying to put too much into this one." "That's not a leak," the Lord corrected, "that's a tear!"
"What's the tear for?" the angel asked.
The Lord said, "The tear is her way of expressing her joy, her sorrow, her pain, her disappointment, her love, her loneliness, her grief and her pride."
The angel was impressed. "You are a genius, Lord. You thought of everything! Woman is truly amazing."
And she is! Women have strengths that amaze men.
They bear hardships and they carry burdens, but they hold happiness, love and joy.
They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy and laugh when they are nervous.
They fight for what they believe in.
They stand up to injustice.
They don't take "no" for an answer when they believe there is a better solution.
They go without so their family can have.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel and cheer when their friends get awards.
They are happy when they hear about a birth or a wedding.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They grieve at the loss of a family member, yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left.
They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart.
Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.
They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you to show how much they care about you.
The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning.
They bring joy, hope and love.
They have compassion and ideals.
They give moral support to their family and friends.
Women have vital things to say and everything to give.
HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN, IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.
PLEASE pass this along to all your women friends and relatives to remind them just how amazing they are.
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Get your tissues ready.
I think you will like it. Turn your speakers on.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=zCdZwitrNoY
http://youtube.com/watch?v=zCdZwitrNoY
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Monday, October 22, 2007
Where are you?
I recently attended a Women's weekend with the fabulous ladies of my church. One of the first speakers was a wonderful woman of God. What she said was powerful. She had a word from the Lord that hit us all where we lived. It was so good. She was told by the Lord that there were women who needed to make the choice between life and death. Others who had been given a word, a promise from the Lord and needed to hold on to it. And yet others who needed to shout!!! I had made the decision of Life some years earlier, but for me I knew it was time to make the walk to the alter because I had heard things from the Lord. We came together and stood on that word in prayer. I also went because I knew it was my time to shout. Now, my problems were not all solved when I believed the word from God, yet I shouted as if they were. The walls of Jericho were not down, yet the children of Israel shouted as if they were. To call those things that are not as if they are. That is why we need to shout. Shout to the heavens. Shout Hallelujah to the Lord for what He is doing now. Let me tell you all that if there is something you are facing that seems to be never ending, too far gone, and you have been on your face with your God and nothing seems to be working, SHOUT!
Do not misinterpret what I am saying, prayer and supplication are paramount, and I do not mean to insinuate that it does no good. Just that I believe and am persuaded that the Lord is waiting for His people to shout. For His children to believe on Him to such a degree that no matter the circumstances we will not be shaken or moved by them. That we will live as the over comers He has made us. That we would be able to have a shout on our lips and a song of praise in our hearts. He tells us to not worry, to not fear, to be of good cheer, the war is won, the battle is over, the storm is calmed, all is done. So SHOUT!!!!!!!!!!
So where are you?
Are you one who needs to make the decision? If you are then rest assured that Jesus is waiting to fill you with His undying, unfailing love.
Have you a word you need to hold on to? If so, rest assured that He who begun a good work in you is faithful to finish it.
If you need to shout? Let it out.!!!!!
God Bless you all.
Do not misinterpret what I am saying, prayer and supplication are paramount, and I do not mean to insinuate that it does no good. Just that I believe and am persuaded that the Lord is waiting for His people to shout. For His children to believe on Him to such a degree that no matter the circumstances we will not be shaken or moved by them. That we will live as the over comers He has made us. That we would be able to have a shout on our lips and a song of praise in our hearts. He tells us to not worry, to not fear, to be of good cheer, the war is won, the battle is over, the storm is calmed, all is done. So SHOUT!!!!!!!!!!
So where are you?
Are you one who needs to make the decision? If you are then rest assured that Jesus is waiting to fill you with His undying, unfailing love.
Have you a word you need to hold on to? If so, rest assured that He who begun a good work in you is faithful to finish it.
If you need to shout? Let it out.!!!!!
God Bless you all.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Thankful Thursday 13
Here is my list:
1. God, He is so good.
2. Figuring things out. There has been a lot going on here that has been sort of a mystery. Through prayer, they have been figured out, that is, we now know what the problem is.
3. God making a way. Regarding #2, now that the things are figured out, we have to figure out how to go about fixing them....
4. Turning things over to God. It is freeing.... It isn't always easy to let things go, but it sets you free knowing God will take care of them.
5. Our Pastor. Even though I am not sure if we are going to still be attending his church, I love him very much. he genuinely cares for us. I will explain later about the not being sure of attendance.
6. Reading other blogs. I was happy to read Heathers thankful 13 this week. It is good to know our MMAD will hopefully be up and running again soon.
7. Being nominated for a rockin girl blogger. That was really cool.
8. Thoughts. They come on me fast and furious sometimes. I believe that is how God works on me. Nothing, nothing, nothing, then........... He gives me a lot all at once.
9. Quiet time. A rare commodity around here. But when it comes I relish it.
10. My husband. Just knowing that God is leading him.... it is such a comfort. So, when I don't have the quiet time to spend listening, I know God is speaking to him.
11. Ability to hear from God. Last week we thought we would be moving to GA. Even though we believed it was from Him, we still continued to be in communion with the Spirit and it became clear to us that it was not the time for it. So, we will be staying here in Indy.....
12. Being so loved by the man God gave me. It is more than I have words to describe. My husband is fabulous. He knows me so well. It is a true blessing to be married to him.
13. Friends I can talk to. You have absolutely no idea how wonderful it is for me to have you all to talk to.
1. God, He is so good.
2. Figuring things out. There has been a lot going on here that has been sort of a mystery. Through prayer, they have been figured out, that is, we now know what the problem is.
3. God making a way. Regarding #2, now that the things are figured out, we have to figure out how to go about fixing them....
4. Turning things over to God. It is freeing.... It isn't always easy to let things go, but it sets you free knowing God will take care of them.
5. Our Pastor. Even though I am not sure if we are going to still be attending his church, I love him very much. he genuinely cares for us. I will explain later about the not being sure of attendance.
6. Reading other blogs. I was happy to read Heathers thankful 13 this week. It is good to know our MMAD will hopefully be up and running again soon.
7. Being nominated for a rockin girl blogger. That was really cool.
8. Thoughts. They come on me fast and furious sometimes. I believe that is how God works on me. Nothing, nothing, nothing, then........... He gives me a lot all at once.
9. Quiet time. A rare commodity around here. But when it comes I relish it.
10. My husband. Just knowing that God is leading him.... it is such a comfort. So, when I don't have the quiet time to spend listening, I know God is speaking to him.
11. Ability to hear from God. Last week we thought we would be moving to GA. Even though we believed it was from Him, we still continued to be in communion with the Spirit and it became clear to us that it was not the time for it. So, we will be staying here in Indy.....
12. Being so loved by the man God gave me. It is more than I have words to describe. My husband is fabulous. He knows me so well. It is a true blessing to be married to him.
13. Friends I can talk to. You have absolutely no idea how wonderful it is for me to have you all to talk to.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
The Beatitudes
From Matthew 5:3-10
I have decided to say "Be of these attitudes!"
Blessed are the poor in spirit.
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn,
For they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek,
For they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
For they shall be filled.
Blessed are the merciful,
For they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart,
For they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
For they shall be called the sons of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Being blessed means to be fully satisfied. One can only obtain full satisfaction from the Lord. When one comes to Christ and accepts Him as their Savior, that is when a true state of blessedness begins. These are the steps that are taken to achieve true blessedness.
1. Realizing that you are poor in spirit. That you cannot do anything to save yourself. You are spiritually helpless and need Christ. When you come to Christ and are saved, you become heirs with Him to all the Father has. And are given the kingdom of heaven.
2. Mourning for your sins. This is the first step to repentance and forgiveness. You shall be comforted by knowing that now you are forgiven.
3. Meekness. Seeing yourself for who you are. Seeing yourself as who the Lord says you are. This comes from submission to Him, and letting Him guide and direct you. You shall inherit the earth.
4. You will hunger and thirst for righteousness. Once you come to Christ you have a desire for Him, His Word, His presence, His ways to be yours. These will be filled by Him. His Word does not come back void.
5. Merciful. Once you accept His salvation, you will be filled with a kind and caring attitude. One who gives mercy shall receive mercy.
6. Your heart will become pure. As a Christian, you have been given a pure heart. you weed out things in your life that cause harm and are not of God. The purer we become, the more we see Him. We begin to see Him everywhere, and in everything.
7. You shall bring peace. When you are saved you are filled with a peace that surpasses all understanding. You begin to go into the world and others are affected by how you conduct yourself. The peace that God gives is contagious, others want it. They will begin to ask you about it, and when you tell them they too will be filled and be of these same attitudes.
8. You will be persecuted. Not everyone will agree with your attitude. They will want to squash your enthusiasm. They will try to hurt you. Yet we know that there will be trouble in this life. It is actually the height we strive for of blessedness.
We can be of these attitudes and experience the joy of being blessed while on this earth. yet we know that realization of true blessedness will only be enjoyed and revealed in heaven.
I have decided to say "Be of these attitudes!"
Blessed are the poor in spirit.
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn,
For they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek,
For they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
For they shall be filled.
Blessed are the merciful,
For they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart,
For they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
For they shall be called the sons of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Being blessed means to be fully satisfied. One can only obtain full satisfaction from the Lord. When one comes to Christ and accepts Him as their Savior, that is when a true state of blessedness begins. These are the steps that are taken to achieve true blessedness.
1. Realizing that you are poor in spirit. That you cannot do anything to save yourself. You are spiritually helpless and need Christ. When you come to Christ and are saved, you become heirs with Him to all the Father has. And are given the kingdom of heaven.
2. Mourning for your sins. This is the first step to repentance and forgiveness. You shall be comforted by knowing that now you are forgiven.
3. Meekness. Seeing yourself for who you are. Seeing yourself as who the Lord says you are. This comes from submission to Him, and letting Him guide and direct you. You shall inherit the earth.
4. You will hunger and thirst for righteousness. Once you come to Christ you have a desire for Him, His Word, His presence, His ways to be yours. These will be filled by Him. His Word does not come back void.
5. Merciful. Once you accept His salvation, you will be filled with a kind and caring attitude. One who gives mercy shall receive mercy.
6. Your heart will become pure. As a Christian, you have been given a pure heart. you weed out things in your life that cause harm and are not of God. The purer we become, the more we see Him. We begin to see Him everywhere, and in everything.
7. You shall bring peace. When you are saved you are filled with a peace that surpasses all understanding. You begin to go into the world and others are affected by how you conduct yourself. The peace that God gives is contagious, others want it. They will begin to ask you about it, and when you tell them they too will be filled and be of these same attitudes.
8. You will be persecuted. Not everyone will agree with your attitude. They will want to squash your enthusiasm. They will try to hurt you. Yet we know that there will be trouble in this life. It is actually the height we strive for of blessedness.
We can be of these attitudes and experience the joy of being blessed while on this earth. yet we know that realization of true blessedness will only be enjoyed and revealed in heaven.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
The Joy In The Trial!
There are reasons we experience troubles and hard times. And those times when it seems all is lost & there is no hope for anything better , that is when we must put our faith into action. In the book of James it tells us to count it all joy when we fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of our faith produces patience. I find it interesting, & strangely comforting that he tells us "when" not "if" we fall into various trials. In John, Jesus tells us , point blank, that we are going to have problems in this world, but to be of good cheer. That does not mean we do cartwheels & shout"YIPPIE" when bad tings happen. Well, I think on some level we could & maybe should shout for joy when we go through difficult or uncertain times. See, I think there is a reason behind all things. We all agree that God is in control, right? Yes. Things do not just happen to us, good or bad because God is bored. He is not sitting in heaven saying " Hey look what she does when I do this." or, " Let's hit her with some bad news & see what she does." I believe if were not able to withstand the trial He would not let it happen.
If we look at the life of Job we see our perfect example of how we are to respond to troubing times. The devil came to God & asked if he could do whatever he wanted to Job, thinking he could make him turn away from God. God had confidence that would not happen, so he told him, " Go ahead, but do not kill him." Job lost everything, his wife, in the sense that she was not exactly supportive, his children, his wealth, his friends, was struck with hiteous boils. He lost everything but his faith in God. When his season passed he was restored 7 times greater than before. Now, do you think through all that Job was happy? No, I imagine he was miserable. But, because of his faith he was able to get through that time.That is where his joy & ours comes from.
Our faith in God brings a peace that surpasses all understanding, & goes far beyond just mere happiness, to pure joy. Stuff happens & our lives are no picnic the majority of the time. But we can have that joy in our hearts because we know God is with us & in control.The reason behind our troubles are various. I believe we go through things so we can help who are going through something similar. The Bible tells us in 2nd Corinthians that God is the God of all comfort. He comforts us n our trials so we can be a comfort to others who have problems. (Paraphrase) We also go through trials in order for our faith to be strengthened. For our faith to be exercised. Sometimes it is simply to learn a certain that God is trying to teach us. Have yu ever gone through the same problem over & over again? Each time it seems to last a little longer? I have, and I learned that I did not get out of it what God intended, so I had to try again.See, God will continue to put you through the same thing until we figure out what He is trying to teach us. Most of the time it is because we are doing things in OUR power, & not letting Him be in control. Sometimes it is just for us to draw closer to Him, through prayer. I think God misses us when we get too busy & forget to spend the kind of time with Him we should.This reason is my favorite, it's that trials & tribulations are a form of distraction. An attack of the enemy. Yes, God allows the enemy to attack us, once again because He knows we can withstand it. As I said before, if He did not think we could handle it, the answer would be NO!!!! I have learned to consider it a good thing when the enemy attacks. To me it means that he is afraid of what God can accoomplish through you. I see it as a great compliment, to know that God has that much faith in you. That He believes that there is nothing that the devil can do to make you turn from Him.Reasons to be joyful when times get hard:
1. God is in control & will never give you more than you can handle.
2. God has aready gone ahead of you & given you the victory.
3. Everything that you go through brings you closer to Him.
4. You will be restored. Whatever you lose you WILL get back.
5. There will be a time when you can help someone else.
6. You always learn something, be it about yourself & what you are made of, & or about God.
7. God has more faith in you than you have in yourself. In some instances it is conformation that you are doing things in Gods sight.The devil attackd when you are doing Gods work.
8. Everything that happens is only temporary, it WILL pass.
9. Your faith will grow stronger through prayer, time in His word, & time spent with God.
10.You will be stronger for the next time you are tried.Every season of our lives is preperation for the next season. When you make it through one season do not take it for granted that the next one will be a breeze. We must take the time when all is well to further build our arsenol. The word of God is our sword, our faith is our sheild. God tells to hide His word in our hearts. We must know the word so when the time comes the Holy Spirit can bring it to our rememberance to minister to us in our time of need.
If we look at the life of Job we see our perfect example of how we are to respond to troubing times. The devil came to God & asked if he could do whatever he wanted to Job, thinking he could make him turn away from God. God had confidence that would not happen, so he told him, " Go ahead, but do not kill him." Job lost everything, his wife, in the sense that she was not exactly supportive, his children, his wealth, his friends, was struck with hiteous boils. He lost everything but his faith in God. When his season passed he was restored 7 times greater than before. Now, do you think through all that Job was happy? No, I imagine he was miserable. But, because of his faith he was able to get through that time.That is where his joy & ours comes from.
Our faith in God brings a peace that surpasses all understanding, & goes far beyond just mere happiness, to pure joy. Stuff happens & our lives are no picnic the majority of the time. But we can have that joy in our hearts because we know God is with us & in control.The reason behind our troubles are various. I believe we go through things so we can help who are going through something similar. The Bible tells us in 2nd Corinthians that God is the God of all comfort. He comforts us n our trials so we can be a comfort to others who have problems. (Paraphrase) We also go through trials in order for our faith to be strengthened. For our faith to be exercised. Sometimes it is simply to learn a certain that God is trying to teach us. Have yu ever gone through the same problem over & over again? Each time it seems to last a little longer? I have, and I learned that I did not get out of it what God intended, so I had to try again.See, God will continue to put you through the same thing until we figure out what He is trying to teach us. Most of the time it is because we are doing things in OUR power, & not letting Him be in control. Sometimes it is just for us to draw closer to Him, through prayer. I think God misses us when we get too busy & forget to spend the kind of time with Him we should.This reason is my favorite, it's that trials & tribulations are a form of distraction. An attack of the enemy. Yes, God allows the enemy to attack us, once again because He knows we can withstand it. As I said before, if He did not think we could handle it, the answer would be NO!!!! I have learned to consider it a good thing when the enemy attacks. To me it means that he is afraid of what God can accoomplish through you. I see it as a great compliment, to know that God has that much faith in you. That He believes that there is nothing that the devil can do to make you turn from Him.Reasons to be joyful when times get hard:
1. God is in control & will never give you more than you can handle.
2. God has aready gone ahead of you & given you the victory.
3. Everything that you go through brings you closer to Him.
4. You will be restored. Whatever you lose you WILL get back.
5. There will be a time when you can help someone else.
6. You always learn something, be it about yourself & what you are made of, & or about God.
7. God has more faith in you than you have in yourself. In some instances it is conformation that you are doing things in Gods sight.The devil attackd when you are doing Gods work.
8. Everything that happens is only temporary, it WILL pass.
9. Your faith will grow stronger through prayer, time in His word, & time spent with God.
10.You will be stronger for the next time you are tried.Every season of our lives is preperation for the next season. When you make it through one season do not take it for granted that the next one will be a breeze. We must take the time when all is well to further build our arsenol. The word of God is our sword, our faith is our sheild. God tells to hide His word in our hearts. We must know the word so when the time comes the Holy Spirit can bring it to our rememberance to minister to us in our time of need.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Thursday Thankful 13
Here's my list this week.
1. God: He is always giving us more and more to be thankful for.
2. A Basement: It is wonderful to have.
3. The Internet: I am finding a lot of good info about where we hope to be moving. Also homes for sale.
4. New opportunities: My husband is looking into buying a truck and being an Owner Operator.
5. My husband: For loving me.
6. Our children: They are the best.
7. Kirby Vacuums: We just bought one yesterday. They came to do a demo and we ended up getting one. It really sucks up the dirt.
8. People who love me for me: I want to thank you all for loving me through this time. Referring to last post.
9. Garage Sales: We didn't make as much as I wanted, but enough to do some repairs.
10. Faith: Faith in God to give what is needed. Faith in others to let them in.
11.Hope: I thank God that He has put the hope of heaven in our hearts. It is the best thing I can think of to have hope for.
12.Love: Love for and from others.
13.Abilities: I thank God that I have been given certain abilities, and the confidence to use them for His purpose.
1. God: He is always giving us more and more to be thankful for.
2. A Basement: It is wonderful to have.
3. The Internet: I am finding a lot of good info about where we hope to be moving. Also homes for sale.
4. New opportunities: My husband is looking into buying a truck and being an Owner Operator.
5. My husband: For loving me.
6. Our children: They are the best.
7. Kirby Vacuums: We just bought one yesterday. They came to do a demo and we ended up getting one. It really sucks up the dirt.
8. People who love me for me: I want to thank you all for loving me through this time. Referring to last post.
9. Garage Sales: We didn't make as much as I wanted, but enough to do some repairs.
10. Faith: Faith in God to give what is needed. Faith in others to let them in.
11.Hope: I thank God that He has put the hope of heaven in our hearts. It is the best thing I can think of to have hope for.
12.Love: Love for and from others.
13.Abilities: I thank God that I have been given certain abilities, and the confidence to use them for His purpose.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Changes
I have been so concerned about writing about this and sharing it with anyone because the few people we have shared it with have been very oppositional. But, I have to believe in you all and trust that you will understand. I have not been myself lately. I have not been doing the things I know I should. Just because I have been bound up. For the past 6 weeks, I have not wanted to go to church. There, I said it. I haven’t wanted to go. Nothing happened, no one said anything, no one did anything. I just haven’t wanted to go. I have been in prayer about it for weeks and nothing has changed. Two Sundays ago Gary got up and asked me if I would be alright staying home? I said yes, and we had church at home. It was wonderful. We talked all day about how we felt, how we felt God was leading us, what we believed God was wanting us to be and do. We both had the same thoughts as to how He wants to use us. I came to find out through that, that he was having the same thoughts and feelings, he didn’t want to go either.
Now, let me make this perfectly clear....... This has absolutely nothing to do with how we are as Christians. We still and forever will believe in the Lord and will follow Him for the rest of our lives. I am not saying I do not believe in God because I don’t go to church. There is no greater passion in my life than to follow God, read His Word, and tell others about Him. I love the Lord with all my heart, mind, and soul. Going to church can’t do that for you. It is either in you or it’s not. With that said, I will continue.
For some time I believed there had to be something wrong with me because of this. Why, that was the only question that would come to mind. Why did I not want to go? I prayed and prayed for God to take this from me. Then that day when Gary and I talked about what we believed God was doing in us, it became clear. It doesn’t matter why. It was what it was, and we knew somehow God was and will use it for His purpose. So, this is the reason I have not been on here as much, writing on my blogs as much. I believed there was something terribly wrong with me. And after that was gone, I felt no one would understand. So, I just said nothing.
Here is where we are right now. We have not been to church in 2 weeks. We have not said we will never go to church. I would like to find a church closer to home. We drive 30 miles now, and that is sort of a problem. Plus it is hard to feel a community atmosphere that far away. I didn’t think that would be a problem at first, yet it has become one. Gary and I are getting a lot from God right now, we have put ourselves in His hands and will go where He leads us. That may be to Georgia, and Gary buying his own truck and driving as and Owner/Operator. This is what we are in prayer about now. We know God has called Gary to preach, in what way we don’t know yet. He is not called to pulpit ministry, yet to preach His Word. We believe we have been called to start up a home church.
In many ways we feel like Abraham. God is telling us to go, but we don’t know where. We believe it is to Georgia. We also know that when God tells you to go, GO!!!!! On the same token, we believe there is a reason we are on this road. Not wanting to go to church, we believe God has a purpose for it. I know for Gary and I both, that our relationship has grown so much through this time. Our relationship with God that is. And ultimately, that is what it really boils down to. It is not about religion, it is about relationship. And now my friends you know what has been going on with me. I pray I have made this understandable to you. And I pray you do not feel differently about me after reading this.
Now, let me make this perfectly clear....... This has absolutely nothing to do with how we are as Christians. We still and forever will believe in the Lord and will follow Him for the rest of our lives. I am not saying I do not believe in God because I don’t go to church. There is no greater passion in my life than to follow God, read His Word, and tell others about Him. I love the Lord with all my heart, mind, and soul. Going to church can’t do that for you. It is either in you or it’s not. With that said, I will continue.
For some time I believed there had to be something wrong with me because of this. Why, that was the only question that would come to mind. Why did I not want to go? I prayed and prayed for God to take this from me. Then that day when Gary and I talked about what we believed God was doing in us, it became clear. It doesn’t matter why. It was what it was, and we knew somehow God was and will use it for His purpose. So, this is the reason I have not been on here as much, writing on my blogs as much. I believed there was something terribly wrong with me. And after that was gone, I felt no one would understand. So, I just said nothing.
Here is where we are right now. We have not been to church in 2 weeks. We have not said we will never go to church. I would like to find a church closer to home. We drive 30 miles now, and that is sort of a problem. Plus it is hard to feel a community atmosphere that far away. I didn’t think that would be a problem at first, yet it has become one. Gary and I are getting a lot from God right now, we have put ourselves in His hands and will go where He leads us. That may be to Georgia, and Gary buying his own truck and driving as and Owner/Operator. This is what we are in prayer about now. We know God has called Gary to preach, in what way we don’t know yet. He is not called to pulpit ministry, yet to preach His Word. We believe we have been called to start up a home church.
In many ways we feel like Abraham. God is telling us to go, but we don’t know where. We believe it is to Georgia. We also know that when God tells you to go, GO!!!!! On the same token, we believe there is a reason we are on this road. Not wanting to go to church, we believe God has a purpose for it. I know for Gary and I both, that our relationship has grown so much through this time. Our relationship with God that is. And ultimately, that is what it really boils down to. It is not about religion, it is about relationship. And now my friends you know what has been going on with me. I pray I have made this understandable to you. And I pray you do not feel differently about me after reading this.
Friday, June 15, 2007
You Like Me, You Really Like Me!!! LOL
OK, the Sally Field moment has past.
Do you know I almost didn't get on the computer tonight? I have been out all day with the garage sale, and I am so tired. I almost just read a little of the Bible, wrote a bit, and went to bed. But, being nosey is a trait I can't seem to shake, so I came on and saw that I WON!!!!!!!
So, my blog will be titled "In His Presence". It will probably replace the other blogs I currently have. I will transfer all posts to my NEW blog. So, it will mainly be about being in, getting in, staying in, and why it is important to be in, His presence. And what happens when you are in. So I think it will be great. I haven't got all the details down, but I have so many ideas. And I know these ideas have come from being in His presence. Some have already come to reality, reading from Gen. to Rev., the thoughts and writings God gives me on any given subject, this new venture of writing about the women of the Bible, all our fun games, thankful 13, 8 facts about me, and so on and so on.........
Anyway, Heather and I will be going over all the details and you will be seeing it soon.
It is funny though to think of the post I did earlier on in the week. It was about distractions, how I was using the look of my blog as one. That it didn't matter how it looks, just what is in it. I had become really comfortable with that, and very happy with my blogs, regardless if I ever got a designed one. Then, being the amazing, giving, gracious God the He is, He made a way for me to get a free, custom blog. From the person who I had been talking about it too. It is just too cool.
There are so many times I just want to sit back, and just watch how He works everything out.
I just want to say that if there is something you have been wanting, praying for, or needing, He will make a way for it. He will ALWAYS make a way for it!!!!!
Rest in that. God Bless You All.
Do you know I almost didn't get on the computer tonight? I have been out all day with the garage sale, and I am so tired. I almost just read a little of the Bible, wrote a bit, and went to bed. But, being nosey is a trait I can't seem to shake, so I came on and saw that I WON!!!!!!!
So, my blog will be titled "In His Presence". It will probably replace the other blogs I currently have. I will transfer all posts to my NEW blog. So, it will mainly be about being in, getting in, staying in, and why it is important to be in, His presence. And what happens when you are in. So I think it will be great. I haven't got all the details down, but I have so many ideas. And I know these ideas have come from being in His presence. Some have already come to reality, reading from Gen. to Rev., the thoughts and writings God gives me on any given subject, this new venture of writing about the women of the Bible, all our fun games, thankful 13, 8 facts about me, and so on and so on.........
Anyway, Heather and I will be going over all the details and you will be seeing it soon.
It is funny though to think of the post I did earlier on in the week. It was about distractions, how I was using the look of my blog as one. That it didn't matter how it looks, just what is in it. I had become really comfortable with that, and very happy with my blogs, regardless if I ever got a designed one. Then, being the amazing, giving, gracious God the He is, He made a way for me to get a free, custom blog. From the person who I had been talking about it too. It is just too cool.
There are so many times I just want to sit back, and just watch how He works everything out.
I just want to say that if there is something you have been wanting, praying for, or needing, He will make a way for it. He will ALWAYS make a way for it!!!!!
Rest in that. God Bless You All.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Thankful Thursday 13
Wow, it is Thursday already? Well, here is what I am thankful for this week.
1. God, He is always #1 on my list.
2. My friends, they are always there for me with what is needed at the time.
3. My husband, he is so wonderful.
4. Friends/Neighbors, always there when you need a helping hand. And can fix a leak when we can't.
5. Our children, they have been a tremendous help to us this week.
6. Our pool, even though I want a bigger one, it is great to get in and have fun.
7. Kaitlyn, finally getting in the pool, and having a great time.
8. Thursdays, I really enjoy this Thankful Thursday 13.
9. Tomorrow being Friday, Garage Sale Day.
10. My sister in law being on this site. I am so glad she has come and likes it.
11. Being a mom, it brings so much joy to my life.
12. New ideas, you will be seeing a new blog soon. Details to come.
13. Enjoying fellowship, last night we sat at our neighbors house on their deck and had a great time.
1. God, He is always #1 on my list.
2. My friends, they are always there for me with what is needed at the time.
3. My husband, he is so wonderful.
4. Friends/Neighbors, always there when you need a helping hand. And can fix a leak when we can't.
5. Our children, they have been a tremendous help to us this week.
6. Our pool, even though I want a bigger one, it is great to get in and have fun.
7. Kaitlyn, finally getting in the pool, and having a great time.
8. Thursdays, I really enjoy this Thankful Thursday 13.
9. Tomorrow being Friday, Garage Sale Day.
10. My sister in law being on this site. I am so glad she has come and likes it.
11. Being a mom, it brings so much joy to my life.
12. New ideas, you will be seeing a new blog soon. Details to come.
13. Enjoying fellowship, last night we sat at our neighbors house on their deck and had a great time.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Just do what I need to do.
I have been very laxed in my blogging lately. In a lot of things actually. I have not been in the Word as I should, so therefore, my blogging has not been what it should be. And, not to mention I haven't been what I need to be. Or doing what I need to be doing. It is amazing how much suffers when I do not read the Word. When I don't have it in me. I am trying to get ready for a garage sale this Friday, and we did some changes to the house this weekend. I feel my plate is really full. I think this is an interesting thing for me to say. I just talked to a friend of mine the other day who was talking about how so many people say this same thing. I interjected, telling her that if people would deal with the things on their plate, it wouldn't be so full. So, this is where I am now. Trying to "deal" with the things on my plate. I need to do what I need to do. Just do it!
1. Read the Word.
2. Write. Whatever comes to mind.
3. Keep moving. That is when God shows us where we need to go. While we are in motion.
4. Quit letting things get in the way. So much has gotten in the way. And, I know I have let it get there.
5. Set my priorities. What is important? Make goals and write them out.
These are just some of the things I need to start working on.
Also, to stop letting my feelings stop me or get in the way of doing. I had gotten in a real funk this last Friday and Saturday. So, that has set everything back a couple days. Housework, reading, writing, blogging, just all kinds of things. I still am not 100%, but I know I am on my way. Oh Yeah, one other thing..... I need to stop thinking I need to have the right look, or theme, or appearance of my blog. I know this has set me back also. I started up a wordpress blog last night, and I realized that I am trying to do something I shouldn't. I am using the way my blogs are as a distraction.
It doesn't matter what it looks like.
It doesn't matter how many blogs I have.
It doesn't matter that I have 2, and I cannot have just one with different categories.
All these things don't make a difference. What makes the difference is what I am doing on them. And what others are getting from them, as well as myself. I have found that so often when I start blogging, that so much comes out that I didn't even know was there. It is very therapeutic.
Thanks for reading.
God bless you all.
1. Read the Word.
2. Write. Whatever comes to mind.
3. Keep moving. That is when God shows us where we need to go. While we are in motion.
4. Quit letting things get in the way. So much has gotten in the way. And, I know I have let it get there.
5. Set my priorities. What is important? Make goals and write them out.
These are just some of the things I need to start working on.
Also, to stop letting my feelings stop me or get in the way of doing. I had gotten in a real funk this last Friday and Saturday. So, that has set everything back a couple days. Housework, reading, writing, blogging, just all kinds of things. I still am not 100%, but I know I am on my way. Oh Yeah, one other thing..... I need to stop thinking I need to have the right look, or theme, or appearance of my blog. I know this has set me back also. I started up a wordpress blog last night, and I realized that I am trying to do something I shouldn't. I am using the way my blogs are as a distraction.
It doesn't matter what it looks like.
It doesn't matter how many blogs I have.
It doesn't matter that I have 2, and I cannot have just one with different categories.
All these things don't make a difference. What makes the difference is what I am doing on them. And what others are getting from them, as well as myself. I have found that so often when I start blogging, that so much comes out that I didn't even know was there. It is very therapeutic.
Thanks for reading.
God bless you all.
Friday, June 8, 2007
8 Facts About Me!! Oh My!
You asked for it, and now you're gonna get it. And Becki, I am going to stop reading your blog entries, you make us work. LOL! I am just kidding.
1. I am the youngest of 5 children. I have 4 sisters so, you can imagine the hormones running through that house.
2. I was a spoiled BRAT!!!!! Refer to #1.
3. I ran home from school my first day of Kindergarten.
4. I had my first child out of wedlock.
5. I met my husband while dating his friend.
6. I wait until my kids go to bed and then eat ice cream. Spoiled brats don't like to share. LOL!
7. Sometimes I just start crying for no reason. About once a month, I get really down. It only lasts about an hour or 3, and then I am fine.
8. I watch way too much T.V. and some of my favorite shows are cartoons. Our T.V. is normally on Nickelodeon most of the day, then I turn to it at night after the kids are asleep. Sometimes I just wonder, am I really 33?
OK, so there it is, 8 random things about me. Woopee! Now ya know.
1. I am the youngest of 5 children. I have 4 sisters so, you can imagine the hormones running through that house.
2. I was a spoiled BRAT!!!!! Refer to #1.
3. I ran home from school my first day of Kindergarten.
4. I had my first child out of wedlock.
5. I met my husband while dating his friend.
6. I wait until my kids go to bed and then eat ice cream. Spoiled brats don't like to share. LOL!
7. Sometimes I just start crying for no reason. About once a month, I get really down. It only lasts about an hour or 3, and then I am fine.
8. I watch way too much T.V. and some of my favorite shows are cartoons. Our T.V. is normally on Nickelodeon most of the day, then I turn to it at night after the kids are asleep. Sometimes I just wonder, am I really 33?
OK, so there it is, 8 random things about me. Woopee! Now ya know.
Thursday, June 7, 2007
Jehovah Jireh:
God IS my Provider!!
I have been hesitant to write about this because it doesn't always show me i a flattering light. But, God has been urging me for a while now to write it all out and share it with others. "I pray Lord, that this is helpful to others as it has been for me." So These are the events that took place last week.
Last Friday I woke up like any other day and talked to my husband on the phone. Fridays are pay-day around here and this was the day we were to pay our mortgage and Gas bill, and go to the store. My big day out. SO, I asked him how much he got and the response was not good. It was much less than we were expecting and what we needed to cover everything. He told me that he payed the mortgage and the gas bill but after they cleared we would be $25.00 in the hole. Here is where I am not shown in a flattering light. My first instinct was to be OK, to trust God and realize He had a plan. Well, that quickly went south. I began looking through my earthly eyes and not my spiritual ones. I began to get mad at God. I became convinced that He was up in heaven looking down on us and thinking this was just hilarious that we were going to be overdrawn, and couldn't afford to go to the grocery store. Here was the open door the enemy was waiting for.
As it says in the Word, he roams around looking for those he can devour. Well, I am sure he thought he found himself a fine meal in me. All morning I was going over and over in my head the prayer I prayed the night before. That God give us enough to meet our bills, and get groceries. I was vulnerable and the enemy attacked, telling me that it was all my fault, i was a jinx, that if it weren't for me, my children and husband would be better off. And the crazy part is, I believed it. I actually called Gary and told him I was going to leave when he got home. He immediately began to tell me the Truth, rebuking the words of the enemy, speaking life and light into my heart. Reminding me of the Promise God had made to us. That He was going to bless us so much that words could not describe it. That we would not be able to contain it. Also, of the Word from the Holy Spirit just the Sunday before when He prompted our Pastors wife to say that, "I don't know who this is for, but the Lord knows that someone here is going through financial difficulties. He wants you to know that every bill will be paid, every mortgage payment will be , made every utility bill will be paid!" She had no idea who it was for, that is one thing I love about our Pastor and his wife, they NEVER hinder the Holy Spirit. She didn't know, but Gary and I did. It was for us. I came to my senses and was feeling pretty dumb for feeling that way to begin with. I mean, the things we needed to pay got paid, why was I flipping out?
Gary got an advance to cover the payments and keep us from being overdrawn, his parents were coming over to pick me up to see our friend who was in the hospital, and they would help us out, and besides.... we still had plenty of food in the house. Everything was fine. I thanked God for giving me such wonderful caring husband. And I thanked Gary for helping me through that time. He said that it was no problem, it is what married couples are supposed to do. He also reminded me of a time not too long ago that I did the same for him. So, the rest of the day was spent swimming with the kids, laying out, and just having fun. When his parents got here we asked if it would be possible for them to help out this week. Of course they said yes. We went to the hospital, Gary went to bed, and life went on. My friend? She is doing fine. We got back and my MIL wrote me a heck for groceries and I was going to take Gary to work that night so I could have the car the next day. I thanked her and they went home. Now, this was not the first time we had had to ask for help, but this time there was something different.
From the second she handed me the check I wanted to give it back. The rest of the night I was feeling weird about asking them for it. I convinced myself it was just that I didn't want to drive at night to take Gary to work. I asked God what to do, and He kept telling me, "You know what to do, go to bed, let Gary go to work and let Me take care of everything else." I went to get Gary up for work and told him I couldn't figure out what was up, why I was feeling the way I was. Was it because I felt bad for asking for help, or because I didn't wast to drive that late at night? His response? You feel bad. I knew this already, I knew the reason I was feeling that way was because I was being convicted. We talked about it, and we both realized that by asking for the help we were telling God that we didn't trust Him for our provision. We were turning to man instead of God. It was a betrayal, it was a slap in the face to our Father. So, we decided to give it back, lean on and trust in the Lord for what we needed. We also, decided that it was better this way, that we had asked, and came to the realization that we didn't need it. To say, "OK, I have this check in my hand, but I am NOT going to use it!" From that moment a stronghold had been broken. And I sensed the Lord smiling down on me.
The next day started out as normal as any other. Got up, called and talked to Gary, watched T.V., the normal stuff. The kids asked me why the car wasn't here. They knew my plans for that day. I explained to them that we were trusting God for the things we needed and that we were going to see what He was going to do. I got my shower and got ready for the day. I went out to get the mail, and you'll never guess what was in it!!!! It seemed like the same old stuff. There was one piece with my name on it, I almost didn't open it. I was amazed when I opened it up to find a Visa card. I had applied for it on a whim a week earlier. Our credit is not so great so, I didn't expect to be approved. They told me when I applied that it would take 3 weeks to know one way or the other. Then here it was a week later, and a $1000.00 credit line. I instantly called my husband, he couldn't stop praising God for it, me either. I went in and showed it to the kids and told them that God did provide. Needless to say, we weer able to get the groceries.
Gary went to work Sunday evening and when he was done with his run he was told some great news. The owner of the company wants him to run their largest account. it is going to Chicago to the Trader Joe's warehouse. He had been doing this run 3 or 4 days a week. And the owner, who has never met Gary wants him to do it all the time. So, this will be more money a week, just another God is showing us that He has a plan for us. He is making sure that there is no lack in this house. I am convinced that one simple act of faith led to all of this. Making the decision not to go to man, and only to rely on the Lord. If we had not done so, none of this would have come to pass.
I pray for any and all of you reading this that if you are struggling with the same stronghold of fear of trusting the Lord for your provision, test Him and He will show Himself trustworthy. Let loose of the fear, lean on Him, believe His words are true, and believe He is your God, your Provision. I urge you to read His Word, believe it. Here are some Scripture references I think will help to trust in Him.
1. Matthew 6:25-26
2. Matthew 6:33
3. Matthew 7:10 & 11
Meditate on them, read them, look up more, trust them, they are Truth. believe in Him, He will always provide.
Maybe this is just for me, or maybe it was for you. I will leave it up to God to decide, if it is for you I pray that you found hope in it.
I have been hesitant to write about this because it doesn't always show me i a flattering light. But, God has been urging me for a while now to write it all out and share it with others. "I pray Lord, that this is helpful to others as it has been for me." So These are the events that took place last week.
Last Friday I woke up like any other day and talked to my husband on the phone. Fridays are pay-day around here and this was the day we were to pay our mortgage and Gas bill, and go to the store. My big day out. SO, I asked him how much he got and the response was not good. It was much less than we were expecting and what we needed to cover everything. He told me that he payed the mortgage and the gas bill but after they cleared we would be $25.00 in the hole. Here is where I am not shown in a flattering light. My first instinct was to be OK, to trust God and realize He had a plan. Well, that quickly went south. I began looking through my earthly eyes and not my spiritual ones. I began to get mad at God. I became convinced that He was up in heaven looking down on us and thinking this was just hilarious that we were going to be overdrawn, and couldn't afford to go to the grocery store. Here was the open door the enemy was waiting for.
As it says in the Word, he roams around looking for those he can devour. Well, I am sure he thought he found himself a fine meal in me. All morning I was going over and over in my head the prayer I prayed the night before. That God give us enough to meet our bills, and get groceries. I was vulnerable and the enemy attacked, telling me that it was all my fault, i was a jinx, that if it weren't for me, my children and husband would be better off. And the crazy part is, I believed it. I actually called Gary and told him I was going to leave when he got home. He immediately began to tell me the Truth, rebuking the words of the enemy, speaking life and light into my heart. Reminding me of the Promise God had made to us. That He was going to bless us so much that words could not describe it. That we would not be able to contain it. Also, of the Word from the Holy Spirit just the Sunday before when He prompted our Pastors wife to say that, "I don't know who this is for, but the Lord knows that someone here is going through financial difficulties. He wants you to know that every bill will be paid, every mortgage payment will be , made every utility bill will be paid!" She had no idea who it was for, that is one thing I love about our Pastor and his wife, they NEVER hinder the Holy Spirit. She didn't know, but Gary and I did. It was for us. I came to my senses and was feeling pretty dumb for feeling that way to begin with. I mean, the things we needed to pay got paid, why was I flipping out?
Gary got an advance to cover the payments and keep us from being overdrawn, his parents were coming over to pick me up to see our friend who was in the hospital, and they would help us out, and besides.... we still had plenty of food in the house. Everything was fine. I thanked God for giving me such wonderful caring husband. And I thanked Gary for helping me through that time. He said that it was no problem, it is what married couples are supposed to do. He also reminded me of a time not too long ago that I did the same for him. So, the rest of the day was spent swimming with the kids, laying out, and just having fun. When his parents got here we asked if it would be possible for them to help out this week. Of course they said yes. We went to the hospital, Gary went to bed, and life went on. My friend? She is doing fine. We got back and my MIL wrote me a heck for groceries and I was going to take Gary to work that night so I could have the car the next day. I thanked her and they went home. Now, this was not the first time we had had to ask for help, but this time there was something different.
From the second she handed me the check I wanted to give it back. The rest of the night I was feeling weird about asking them for it. I convinced myself it was just that I didn't want to drive at night to take Gary to work. I asked God what to do, and He kept telling me, "You know what to do, go to bed, let Gary go to work and let Me take care of everything else." I went to get Gary up for work and told him I couldn't figure out what was up, why I was feeling the way I was. Was it because I felt bad for asking for help, or because I didn't wast to drive that late at night? His response? You feel bad. I knew this already, I knew the reason I was feeling that way was because I was being convicted. We talked about it, and we both realized that by asking for the help we were telling God that we didn't trust Him for our provision. We were turning to man instead of God. It was a betrayal, it was a slap in the face to our Father. So, we decided to give it back, lean on and trust in the Lord for what we needed. We also, decided that it was better this way, that we had asked, and came to the realization that we didn't need it. To say, "OK, I have this check in my hand, but I am NOT going to use it!" From that moment a stronghold had been broken. And I sensed the Lord smiling down on me.
The next day started out as normal as any other. Got up, called and talked to Gary, watched T.V., the normal stuff. The kids asked me why the car wasn't here. They knew my plans for that day. I explained to them that we were trusting God for the things we needed and that we were going to see what He was going to do. I got my shower and got ready for the day. I went out to get the mail, and you'll never guess what was in it!!!! It seemed like the same old stuff. There was one piece with my name on it, I almost didn't open it. I was amazed when I opened it up to find a Visa card. I had applied for it on a whim a week earlier. Our credit is not so great so, I didn't expect to be approved. They told me when I applied that it would take 3 weeks to know one way or the other. Then here it was a week later, and a $1000.00 credit line. I instantly called my husband, he couldn't stop praising God for it, me either. I went in and showed it to the kids and told them that God did provide. Needless to say, we weer able to get the groceries.
Gary went to work Sunday evening and when he was done with his run he was told some great news. The owner of the company wants him to run their largest account. it is going to Chicago to the Trader Joe's warehouse. He had been doing this run 3 or 4 days a week. And the owner, who has never met Gary wants him to do it all the time. So, this will be more money a week, just another God is showing us that He has a plan for us. He is making sure that there is no lack in this house. I am convinced that one simple act of faith led to all of this. Making the decision not to go to man, and only to rely on the Lord. If we had not done so, none of this would have come to pass.
I pray for any and all of you reading this that if you are struggling with the same stronghold of fear of trusting the Lord for your provision, test Him and He will show Himself trustworthy. Let loose of the fear, lean on Him, believe His words are true, and believe He is your God, your Provision. I urge you to read His Word, believe it. Here are some Scripture references I think will help to trust in Him.
1. Matthew 6:25-26
2. Matthew 6:33
3. Matthew 7:10 & 11
Meditate on them, read them, look up more, trust them, they are Truth. believe in Him, He will always provide.
Maybe this is just for me, or maybe it was for you. I will leave it up to God to decide, if it is for you I pray that you found hope in it.
Thankful 13 Thrusday
Here is my list of what I am thankful for this week:
1.God: You just have no idea how thankful I am to have God in my life. I will be posting about it later.
2.My Husband: He is always there to lift me up when I get down. He is a truly wonderful man.
3.Food: I am truly thankful that there is no lack in this house. The cupboards are not bare, and there is milk in the fridge.
4.Ability to bless others:I have been blessed this week to be a blessing to my dear friend Kim who had surgery last week.
5.Jacob: Our 15 year old son who is a wonderful boy. Yes, he is 15 but, he is considerate,helpful, and a good brother. (When he wants to be!!! LOL!)
6.Charlie Sue:Our 11 year old daughter, she is a tremendous help, she loves to help in the kitchen and with the house work. She will make someone a wonderful wife one day.
7.Zoe:Our 10 year old daughter, her grandfather says she is a deep thinker. She is very quiet, until she is playing and you want quiet.
8.Dustin:Our 7 year old son. He is a doll baby. We call him the "suck-up" his siblings nicknamed him that. He is my sweet little man.
9.Kaitlyn:Our little celery girl. She is 2 years old and the light of our lives.
10.The Bible:It is such a blessing to be able to sit and read God's Word, let it get inside me, and penetrate my soul.
11.Blogs:Reading other women's blogs has been a real joy for me. It does my heart good to know there are so many out there who are of the same mind.
12.Thankful 13:I am thankful for this. It helps to put things into perspective.
13.Becki's 13:I was touched by her thankful Thursday 13 this week. The list of Biblical characters was profound.
1.God: You just have no idea how thankful I am to have God in my life. I will be posting about it later.
2.My Husband: He is always there to lift me up when I get down. He is a truly wonderful man.
3.Food: I am truly thankful that there is no lack in this house. The cupboards are not bare, and there is milk in the fridge.
4.Ability to bless others:I have been blessed this week to be a blessing to my dear friend Kim who had surgery last week.
5.Jacob: Our 15 year old son who is a wonderful boy. Yes, he is 15 but, he is considerate,helpful, and a good brother. (When he wants to be!!! LOL!)
6.Charlie Sue:Our 11 year old daughter, she is a tremendous help, she loves to help in the kitchen and with the house work. She will make someone a wonderful wife one day.
7.Zoe:Our 10 year old daughter, her grandfather says she is a deep thinker. She is very quiet, until she is playing and you want quiet.
8.Dustin:Our 7 year old son. He is a doll baby. We call him the "suck-up" his siblings nicknamed him that. He is my sweet little man.
9.Kaitlyn:Our little celery girl. She is 2 years old and the light of our lives.
10.The Bible:It is such a blessing to be able to sit and read God's Word, let it get inside me, and penetrate my soul.
11.Blogs:Reading other women's blogs has been a real joy for me. It does my heart good to know there are so many out there who are of the same mind.
12.Thankful 13:I am thankful for this. It helps to put things into perspective.
13.Becki's 13:I was touched by her thankful Thursday 13 this week. The list of Biblical characters was profound.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Thankful Thrusday 13
1. I am thankful for God, He is my great reward.
2. I am thankful for my children, and the relationship we have together.
3. I am thankful for good friends.
4. I am thankful that my good friend Kim made it through surgery today.
5. I am thankful that Gary and I are moving towards the destiny God has for us.
6. I am thankful that we have had such beautiful weather lately.
7. I am thankful for summer vacation.
8. I am thankful for our church. The River of Life is awesome.
9. I am thankful for the gifts that God has given to me. (Spiritual Gifts.)
10. I am thankful for Gary not having to work last night and spending time with him today.
11. I am thankful for the peace that passes all understanding.
12. I am thankful for having a wonderful husband I can talk about anything with.
13. I am thankful for the knowledge that I am moving in the right direction, and that I am blessed.
2. I am thankful for my children, and the relationship we have together.
3. I am thankful for good friends.
4. I am thankful that my good friend Kim made it through surgery today.
5. I am thankful that Gary and I are moving towards the destiny God has for us.
6. I am thankful that we have had such beautiful weather lately.
7. I am thankful for summer vacation.
8. I am thankful for our church. The River of Life is awesome.
9. I am thankful for the gifts that God has given to me. (Spiritual Gifts.)
10. I am thankful for Gary not having to work last night and spending time with him today.
11. I am thankful for the peace that passes all understanding.
12. I am thankful for having a wonderful husband I can talk about anything with.
13. I am thankful for the knowledge that I am moving in the right direction, and that I am blessed.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Can't thank God enough!!!!!
I just can't thank God enough for the word given to our Pastors wife during praise and worship. We were singing and praising and the Holy Spirit spoke through her for the people of the church. We were in prayer and asked if there was a need to raise our hands, and for those around them to pray for them. I did not raise mine, I always feel there are bigger problems than mine. But God felt otherwise. He spoke through her to my husband and I. Not by name mind you, but our circumstances. She said, "There is someone here with a financial burden. Let me tell you that God says, every bill will be paid, every mortgage payment will be paid, every utility bill will be paid." Tears flowed from mine and my husbands eyes and we praised God for that. We have been going through, what seems to be the worst financial time we have ever faced. I will not give any detail, only that we have bills that need paid, and those bills are due to be paid VERY soon. So, when we heard that, it was like a two ton weight had been lifted off of our shoulders. God has this under control. It is funny, sometimes I don't even realize that I am concerned about things, then I get a word from God, and He knows me better than I know myself. Cool huh? So, I am thankful everyday, yet somehow I am expressing it so much more these past few days. I have been in a constant state of praise and thanksgiving. And I will tell you, it is a wonderful state to be in. It is a warm state, because the Son shines on you all the time.
God Bless you all.
Praise God, because He is worthy of your praise.
God Bless you all.
Praise God, because He is worthy of your praise.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
My Thankful 13 5-24-07
1. God: Because He is so good. All that He has done for our family and so much more. He loves me, and I love Him. If I had nothing else to be thankful for, it would be enough.
2. My life: I am happy and content, at peace with who I am, where I am, and where I am going. I am led by God and I am trusting Him 100%.
3. My relationship with my husband: Again, just happy. Everyday we love each other more and more. We had an issue last weekend,(next blog entry) but it was resolved and through the situation a deeper level of love and happiness has developed.
4. Our kids: Everyday I look at them and realize, God gave them to us. He trusts us to raise them, watch over them, guide them, teach them, and prepare them to do His work.
5. My friends: To know that there are women who care for me, will pray for and with me, share my joys and triumphs, cry with me, bare my burdens with me, and that I can do and be that same for them.
6. New things: Starting to write back and forth with Katie will be such a blessing. ( Katie, I haven't had a spare moment lately but, I promise the first of many letters will be coming your way soon.)
7. Knowing I am not alone: This one correlates with #5. I'm not alone, I have my friends, and family.
8. Summer: i am enjoying being outdoors much more this year.We've been out playing, taking walks, and just enjoying the weather, the T.V. has been off till evening all week. A huge thing in our house. Also, since it is summer, I am thankful for soothing aloe. Hot sun + fair skin = red skin. My shoulders are burnt. I am tanning everywhere else. Also an oddity. A good one though.
9. Playing: This afternoon I spent the day playing hide-n-seek with the kids. It was so much fun. We had a wonderful time.
10. The day after Gary's night off: These are the days we try to get alot of stuff done. Most of the time we get alot accomplished. We do it all together so, whatever the outcome it is a success because we are together.
11. Setting up our pool: It is a 4 ft. Intex pool we got free last year from our friends across the street. They bought a new one and gave us this one. We had to set it up and fill it up twice but it is up and the kids, Gary and I included have a pool to play in this year.
12. God's plan for my/our life: I am building up the courage to post on our neighborhoods Yahoo group for my moms group. I am very excited about this. I am going to get it out there and leave it in God's very capable hands. Also, my journey to a greater understanding of His Word through reading the Bible one chapter at a time from Genesis to Revelation.
13. Trials: I am thankful for the trials God puts me through. It is the best way to learn and grow closer to Him. To lean on Him for your restoration, comfort, peace, and provision. We are, Praise God, in a season of good times right now. But, I know we would not be here if it hadn't been for the trials He put in our path. They are a blessing, tough at times but the reward is so sweet.
Well, ladies I made it with 10 minutes to spare. May you all have a blessed evening.
2. My life: I am happy and content, at peace with who I am, where I am, and where I am going. I am led by God and I am trusting Him 100%.
3. My relationship with my husband: Again, just happy. Everyday we love each other more and more. We had an issue last weekend,(next blog entry) but it was resolved and through the situation a deeper level of love and happiness has developed.
4. Our kids: Everyday I look at them and realize, God gave them to us. He trusts us to raise them, watch over them, guide them, teach them, and prepare them to do His work.
5. My friends: To know that there are women who care for me, will pray for and with me, share my joys and triumphs, cry with me, bare my burdens with me, and that I can do and be that same for them.
6. New things: Starting to write back and forth with Katie will be such a blessing. ( Katie, I haven't had a spare moment lately but, I promise the first of many letters will be coming your way soon.)
7. Knowing I am not alone: This one correlates with #5. I'm not alone, I have my friends, and family.
8. Summer: i am enjoying being outdoors much more this year.We've been out playing, taking walks, and just enjoying the weather, the T.V. has been off till evening all week. A huge thing in our house. Also, since it is summer, I am thankful for soothing aloe. Hot sun + fair skin = red skin. My shoulders are burnt. I am tanning everywhere else. Also an oddity. A good one though.
9. Playing: This afternoon I spent the day playing hide-n-seek with the kids. It was so much fun. We had a wonderful time.
10. The day after Gary's night off: These are the days we try to get alot of stuff done. Most of the time we get alot accomplished. We do it all together so, whatever the outcome it is a success because we are together.
11. Setting up our pool: It is a 4 ft. Intex pool we got free last year from our friends across the street. They bought a new one and gave us this one. We had to set it up and fill it up twice but it is up and the kids, Gary and I included have a pool to play in this year.
12. God's plan for my/our life: I am building up the courage to post on our neighborhoods Yahoo group for my moms group. I am very excited about this. I am going to get it out there and leave it in God's very capable hands. Also, my journey to a greater understanding of His Word through reading the Bible one chapter at a time from Genesis to Revelation.
13. Trials: I am thankful for the trials God puts me through. It is the best way to learn and grow closer to Him. To lean on Him for your restoration, comfort, peace, and provision. We are, Praise God, in a season of good times right now. But, I know we would not be here if it hadn't been for the trials He put in our path. They are a blessing, tough at times but the reward is so sweet.
Well, ladies I made it with 10 minutes to spare. May you all have a blessed evening.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Thankful Thirteen
OK, so I am a day late and a dollar short, but better late than never.
1. My salvation and relationship with God.
2. My husband
3. Our children: Jacob, Charlie Sue, Zoe, Dustin, and Kaitlyn.
4. Our church, Pastor and his wife.
5. Our home.
6. Getting caught up on everything.
7. Husbands job.
8. My friends, Heather, Katie, and Becki. Hi guys.
9. New insights from God on His word.
10. Learning new and fun things.
11. Being a SAHM.
12. Homeschooling.
13. Just being able to wake up each day to enjoy all He has given me.
So, this is just a short list of the things I am thankful for.
1. My salvation and relationship with God.
2. My husband
3. Our children: Jacob, Charlie Sue, Zoe, Dustin, and Kaitlyn.
4. Our church, Pastor and his wife.
5. Our home.
6. Getting caught up on everything.
7. Husbands job.
8. My friends, Heather, Katie, and Becki. Hi guys.
9. New insights from God on His word.
10. Learning new and fun things.
11. Being a SAHM.
12. Homeschooling.
13. Just being able to wake up each day to enjoy all He has given me.
So, this is just a short list of the things I am thankful for.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
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Saturday, May 12, 2007
Who is my family?
I have not spoken to my parents in two years. One sister in as many years, another in at least 3, another since my fourth child was born seven years ago, and my oldest sister in eleven years. Needless to say I come from a dysfunctional family. Also, it is painfully obvious that I am not missed.
Without going into too much detail, my family and I grew apart after my coming to the Lord. Someday I will write about all this, but now is not the time. This is about something different. As my walk with Christ has lengthened, and my passion for the Lord has increased, I am learning many, many things. He is showing me that I am a member of a much larger family. I am a member of the family of the household of faith.
In the household of faith there are many family members. There are sisters, brothers, Aunts, Uncles, mother, and Father. The Spirit of God are in each one, and the God is each one. Jesus told us that when we come to Him we will be heirs with Him to all His Father has. I have learned though that this does not come without losing some things. We are to lose things that are within us, that will hinder our walk. Yet this is about something else.Jesus told us that there were some things that would happen. That there would be some people who would not be able to understand. This is what He said about that.
Luke 12:51-53 "51 Do you suppose that I came to give peace on earth? I tell you, not at all, but rather division. 52 For from now on five in one house will be divided : three against two, and two against three. 53 Father will be divided against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother in law against her daughter in law and daughter in law against her mother in law"
My family was not ready to accept me as a Christian, but God and my new family of faith was ready to accept me with open arms. Does it hurt that my earthly family has turned from me? Of course it does, but, as I lean on God and give Him my hurts, nothing can hurt so bad that He cannot make better. Jesus warns us about loving someone more than God. He tells us this:
Matthew 10:37 "He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me." God knew what He was doing when He took them out of my life. I trust Him completely. Through this loss I have gained so much more in return. I have godly women in my life I can turn to with any issue. And they don't just fix it, they show me God's way. I have men in my life who act as father, brother, and uncle. Each one with their own specific purpose. Ladies I have a wonderful time with as sisters in the faith. Guidance, direction, love caring, comfort, prayer, support, encouragement, all this I get from my Spiritual family.
Here is what Jesus say of who is our family:
Mark 3:31-35 "The His brothers and His mother came, and standing outside they sent to Him, calling Him. 32 And a multitude was sitting around Him; and they said to Him, "Look Your mother and Your brothers are outside seeking You." 33 But He answered them , saying "Who is My mother, or My brothers?" 34 And He look around in a circle at those who sat about Him, and said, "Here are My mother and My brothers! 35For whoever does the will of God is My brother and My sister and mother."
So, who is my Father? God
Who is my mother? God
Who are my my brother? Jesus
Who are my sisters, brothers, friends? The Holy Spirit who dwells in those in my family of faith.
Who is my family? Anyone who does my Fathers will.
And you, you who are reading this,you are my family as well. God loves you just as much as me. Whatever He has done for me, He can and will do for you.
If you are not yet in the family of faith, and it is something you would like, it is as simple as saying these few little words. I warn you though they are packed full of power.
Lord God, I ask You today to come into my heart. To be my personal Lord and Savior. I want to have You in my life. I know I am a sinner, and I ask You today to cleanse me and make me a new creature. Thank You Lord.
Without going into too much detail, my family and I grew apart after my coming to the Lord. Someday I will write about all this, but now is not the time. This is about something different. As my walk with Christ has lengthened, and my passion for the Lord has increased, I am learning many, many things. He is showing me that I am a member of a much larger family. I am a member of the family of the household of faith.
In the household of faith there are many family members. There are sisters, brothers, Aunts, Uncles, mother, and Father. The Spirit of God are in each one, and the God is each one. Jesus told us that when we come to Him we will be heirs with Him to all His Father has. I have learned though that this does not come without losing some things. We are to lose things that are within us, that will hinder our walk. Yet this is about something else.Jesus told us that there were some things that would happen. That there would be some people who would not be able to understand. This is what He said about that.
Luke 12:51-53 "51 Do you suppose that I came to give peace on earth? I tell you, not at all, but rather division. 52 For from now on five in one house will be divided : three against two, and two against three. 53 Father will be divided against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother in law against her daughter in law and daughter in law against her mother in law"
My family was not ready to accept me as a Christian, but God and my new family of faith was ready to accept me with open arms. Does it hurt that my earthly family has turned from me? Of course it does, but, as I lean on God and give Him my hurts, nothing can hurt so bad that He cannot make better. Jesus warns us about loving someone more than God. He tells us this:
Matthew 10:37 "He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me." God knew what He was doing when He took them out of my life. I trust Him completely. Through this loss I have gained so much more in return. I have godly women in my life I can turn to with any issue. And they don't just fix it, they show me God's way. I have men in my life who act as father, brother, and uncle. Each one with their own specific purpose. Ladies I have a wonderful time with as sisters in the faith. Guidance, direction, love caring, comfort, prayer, support, encouragement, all this I get from my Spiritual family.
Here is what Jesus say of who is our family:
Mark 3:31-35 "The His brothers and His mother came, and standing outside they sent to Him, calling Him. 32 And a multitude was sitting around Him; and they said to Him, "Look Your mother and Your brothers are outside seeking You." 33 But He answered them , saying "Who is My mother, or My brothers?" 34 And He look around in a circle at those who sat about Him, and said, "Here are My mother and My brothers! 35For whoever does the will of God is My brother and My sister and mother."
So, who is my Father? God
Who is my mother? God
Who are my my brother? Jesus
Who are my sisters, brothers, friends? The Holy Spirit who dwells in those in my family of faith.
Who is my family? Anyone who does my Fathers will.
And you, you who are reading this,you are my family as well. God loves you just as much as me. Whatever He has done for me, He can and will do for you.
If you are not yet in the family of faith, and it is something you would like, it is as simple as saying these few little words. I warn you though they are packed full of power.
Lord God, I ask You today to come into my heart. To be my personal Lord and Savior. I want to have You in my life. I know I am a sinner, and I ask You today to cleanse me and make me a new creature. Thank You Lord.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Genesis Chapter 1
There were a few things I found interesting from this chapter. One is that from the beginning God has been hovering over the face of the earth. What an awesome sight to behold, God hovering. It reminds me of when a helicopter hovers, it's propellers create such a strong wind. It can be felt from anywhere in it's radius. I believe God is that way, as He hovers, His Spirit can be felt by anyone around.
Two, we are like the fruit trees. God spoke these into existence. He said specifically that they shall yield fruit, according to it's kind, whose seed in in itself. You cut open any fruit & what will you find? It's seed, and those sees cannot yield forth anything but what it is from. We are the same, our seed is in us. An apple cannot produce an orange. Same as we cannot produce anything but a combination of ourselves. Same can be said for Christians, are we not God's seed? Is His seed not in us? We are to produce godly things, new Christians, according to our kind. That is why we all have a different calling. Some are called to Preach, some to teach, some to missions, that is what according to our kind means to me.
Another thing I found remarkable is that He set the sun moon & stars in the sky. I picture Him picking each one, one at a time & choosing just the perfect spot for it. I continue to marvel also at Genesis 1:26, Then God said "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness." Our. Soak that in..... From Genesis He was referring to Himself as the Godhead, the Trinity, Father, Son, & Holy Spirit. All of them converging to make man. Human beings that would reign over all that They created. Think about the trust He has in us to let us have this awesome responsibility.
There were a few things I found interesting from this chapter. One is that from the beginning God has been hovering over the face of the earth. What an awesome sight to behold, God hovering. It reminds me of when a helicopter hovers, it's propellers create such a strong wind. It can be felt from anywhere in it's radius. I believe God is that way, as He hovers, His Spirit can be felt by anyone around.
Two, we are like the fruit trees. God spoke these into existence. He said specifically that they shall yield fruit, according to it's kind, whose seed in in itself. You cut open any fruit & what will you find? It's seed, and those sees cannot yield forth anything but what it is from. We are the same, our seed is in us. An apple cannot produce an orange. Same as we cannot produce anything but a combination of ourselves. Same can be said for Christians, are we not God's seed? Is His seed not in us? We are to produce godly things, new Christians, according to our kind. That is why we all have a different calling. Some are called to Preach, some to teach, some to missions, that is what according to our kind means to me.
Another thing I found remarkable is that He set the sun moon & stars in the sky. I picture Him picking each one, one at a time & choosing just the perfect spot for it. I continue to marvel also at Genesis 1:26, Then God said "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness." Our. Soak that in..... From Genesis He was referring to Himself as the Godhead, the Trinity, Father, Son, & Holy Spirit. All of them converging to make man. Human beings that would reign over all that They created. Think about the trust He has in us to let us have this awesome responsibility.
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
My Testimony
I, as many others say, can look back on my life and see where God has had His hand on me from day one, literally. My mother once told me that when she found out I was coming that her Aunt advised her to abort me. God didn't let that happen. I am the youngest of 5, all girls. No, dad never had a chance. Back to the story. I almost died at birth. My umbilical cord was wrapped around my neck, twice. Thankfully God was guiding the doctors hand and he was able to unwrap it from my neck and I came into this world on January 9, 1974. When I was 2, my family went to a local mall for an RV show. Well, as we were touring the campers noone knew the back door was unlocked. I soon found out. Face first, at 2, onto the blacktop parking lot. God had His hand on me that day. The only thing that came of it was that for the next 11 years I had many many nose bleeds. And really they helped me later in my life, 2 of our kids get them alot, so it is helpful to them that mom has had experience with it.
I was not raised in church. We seldom went. I could count on one hand the number of times we went to church during my childhood. Our Sundays were spent sleeping in & reading the goodie papers. We celebrated all the Christian holidays, Christmas & Easter, we called ourselves Christians. Well, my dad always would tell us that we were Protestant. I never knew what that meant. I thought it was like Methodist, or Lutheran. I know what it means now. My dad had some knowledge of the Bible. Not the Word itself, but why it was called the King James Version, stuff like that. As I said, we said we were Christians. I have come to find there are so many that use that word. Yes, use it. They assume they are Christian because they are not Jewish.
Fast forward a few years. At the age of 15 I met a guy. He was older & had a car. Two qualities that were very important when you were 15, right? I ended up pregnant, & miscarried. Now you would think I would learn from this, but OH no, not me. I got pregnant again. This time I told the guy to take a hike. You know what, he did. So, at the age of 17 I had my first child, a boy. OK, OK I'm up. I'm Up!!!! When reality hits, it hits hard.Around that time, I started feeling a tug. I didn't know why or from where. I only knew I wanted to pray.
Another 2 years went by & I met this other guy. I started dating a friend of his. Once again, older & had a car. Boy, do I have a thick skull.... During this time the other guy went to his parents & told them that he had met the woman he was going to marry. He would constantly tease his friend that he was going to steal me away. Funny thing, he did. We became really good friends, then much more. Now, when we met he was a pot-head. After I broke off the relationship with the one guy, he was there. He asked me to go out with him to a movie. I said yes. From that day he never touched the stuff again. We started dating in August, he asked me to marry him in October, & we were married in December. WE weren't playing around. It has been 12 years, & everyday our love grows. By the way, from the first day my son has called my husband daddy. And he has never referred to him by anything other than his son.
Throughout our marriage we didn't go to church. Even though he was raised in church. After a few years his parents started taking our kids to church with them. Yes, they used my own children against me. Then our kids started asking us why we didn't go to church. Well, instead of having to answer, we started going too. Now, I was one who felt that yes, I believe in God, I know Jesus died for my sins, isn't that enough? No, it's not. I found that out. But, I didn't really get the whole church, Christian walk, thing. I didn't get what the big deal was. I had alot of reservations about church, this one inpaticular. It was what I referred to as "tent revival, bring out the snakes, Bible beaters, kind of church." And quite honestly it bothered me. I always felt & would emphatically state, that I was too smart for all this. I eventually came around.
During this time my husband was an over the road truck driver. Now he was really getting into this church thing. It scared me because I felt like he was going to not want to be with me anymore. I explained to him that I was afraid that we were going in different directions. Him to God, & me nowhere. He reassured me that he wasn't going anywhere without me. He helped me see where I was going, to Christ. It didn't happen over night, but it did happen.
Here is the story of how I came to Christ. One night (Friday the 13th) we went to bed & I was awakened by a horrible, hideous sound. My husband was growling, yes growling. He had gone to sleep angry & that was just the opportunity for the enemy to get in & try to get him back. Well, I jumped out of bed, called my in-laws & told them that there was something wrong with Gary. They told me to dial 911. After asking me what I thought it was. This is my FIL. He knew, he just wanted me to say it. I hate it when he does that. Anyway, the paramedics came, my FIL comes & Gary is fine. Up & talking like nothing happened. Then the paramedics leave, & it returns. After a while of nothing much happening, my MIL comes over. She takes one look at her son & starts praying, rebuking, & the next thing you know, it is gone. Gary is filled with the Holy Spirit, & I am a believer. No questions asked. I look back now & think of what it took for me to come to Christ. But, I have learned that nothing happens that God hasn't given His OK on. So, I have to believe that He knew what it would take for me to come to Him. That is what is so awesome about Him.
Since then we have been faithful attenders of church. OH, this was February 14, 2004 that I was born again. We have had our good times & our not so good one's. But through it all God is good. He has helped us to lean on Him by taking some things away. He has taught us humility by needing to ask for help. He has prospered us by giving my husband a great job, and the ability to buy our first home together. We continue through our test & trials, and we know He is there. They are all for our good. Our Pastor has a saying, "God is more concerned about you character than your comfort." It is so true. That is why we go through what we do. I am glad for every one. It means He is shaping & molding me to be prepared to do His work. To be His spotless, blameless bride, to be able & ready to spread His message. I can't help anyone if I don't go through things. Then one day I realized that He only is perfecting me. Why would He want me perfected if He didn't love me? He does, & I Him.
I was not raised in church. We seldom went. I could count on one hand the number of times we went to church during my childhood. Our Sundays were spent sleeping in & reading the goodie papers. We celebrated all the Christian holidays, Christmas & Easter, we called ourselves Christians. Well, my dad always would tell us that we were Protestant. I never knew what that meant. I thought it was like Methodist, or Lutheran. I know what it means now. My dad had some knowledge of the Bible. Not the Word itself, but why it was called the King James Version, stuff like that. As I said, we said we were Christians. I have come to find there are so many that use that word. Yes, use it. They assume they are Christian because they are not Jewish.
Fast forward a few years. At the age of 15 I met a guy. He was older & had a car. Two qualities that were very important when you were 15, right? I ended up pregnant, & miscarried. Now you would think I would learn from this, but OH no, not me. I got pregnant again. This time I told the guy to take a hike. You know what, he did. So, at the age of 17 I had my first child, a boy. OK, OK I'm up. I'm Up!!!! When reality hits, it hits hard.Around that time, I started feeling a tug. I didn't know why or from where. I only knew I wanted to pray.
Another 2 years went by & I met this other guy. I started dating a friend of his. Once again, older & had a car. Boy, do I have a thick skull.... During this time the other guy went to his parents & told them that he had met the woman he was going to marry. He would constantly tease his friend that he was going to steal me away. Funny thing, he did. We became really good friends, then much more. Now, when we met he was a pot-head. After I broke off the relationship with the one guy, he was there. He asked me to go out with him to a movie. I said yes. From that day he never touched the stuff again. We started dating in August, he asked me to marry him in October, & we were married in December. WE weren't playing around. It has been 12 years, & everyday our love grows. By the way, from the first day my son has called my husband daddy. And he has never referred to him by anything other than his son.
Throughout our marriage we didn't go to church. Even though he was raised in church. After a few years his parents started taking our kids to church with them. Yes, they used my own children against me. Then our kids started asking us why we didn't go to church. Well, instead of having to answer, we started going too. Now, I was one who felt that yes, I believe in God, I know Jesus died for my sins, isn't that enough? No, it's not. I found that out. But, I didn't really get the whole church, Christian walk, thing. I didn't get what the big deal was. I had alot of reservations about church, this one inpaticular. It was what I referred to as "tent revival, bring out the snakes, Bible beaters, kind of church." And quite honestly it bothered me. I always felt & would emphatically state, that I was too smart for all this. I eventually came around.
During this time my husband was an over the road truck driver. Now he was really getting into this church thing. It scared me because I felt like he was going to not want to be with me anymore. I explained to him that I was afraid that we were going in different directions. Him to God, & me nowhere. He reassured me that he wasn't going anywhere without me. He helped me see where I was going, to Christ. It didn't happen over night, but it did happen.
Here is the story of how I came to Christ. One night (Friday the 13th) we went to bed & I was awakened by a horrible, hideous sound. My husband was growling, yes growling. He had gone to sleep angry & that was just the opportunity for the enemy to get in & try to get him back. Well, I jumped out of bed, called my in-laws & told them that there was something wrong with Gary. They told me to dial 911. After asking me what I thought it was. This is my FIL. He knew, he just wanted me to say it. I hate it when he does that. Anyway, the paramedics came, my FIL comes & Gary is fine. Up & talking like nothing happened. Then the paramedics leave, & it returns. After a while of nothing much happening, my MIL comes over. She takes one look at her son & starts praying, rebuking, & the next thing you know, it is gone. Gary is filled with the Holy Spirit, & I am a believer. No questions asked. I look back now & think of what it took for me to come to Christ. But, I have learned that nothing happens that God hasn't given His OK on. So, I have to believe that He knew what it would take for me to come to Him. That is what is so awesome about Him.
Since then we have been faithful attenders of church. OH, this was February 14, 2004 that I was born again. We have had our good times & our not so good one's. But through it all God is good. He has helped us to lean on Him by taking some things away. He has taught us humility by needing to ask for help. He has prospered us by giving my husband a great job, and the ability to buy our first home together. We continue through our test & trials, and we know He is there. They are all for our good. Our Pastor has a saying, "God is more concerned about you character than your comfort." It is so true. That is why we go through what we do. I am glad for every one. It means He is shaping & molding me to be prepared to do His work. To be His spotless, blameless bride, to be able & ready to spread His message. I can't help anyone if I don't go through things. Then one day I realized that He only is perfecting me. Why would He want me perfected if He didn't love me? He does, & I Him.
Because HE said so!
If I have learned anything as a follower of Christ it is this, when God gives you something to do, your "time such as this" do it! If you don't, He will find someone who will. I had such an experience today. I had been reading through the New Testament. I started in the Old a few weeks ago. I started in Joshua, and had read through 1 Kings. Then as I was talking to my husband one day, he told me he was going to read through the New, then return to the Old. I thought this was a good idea, and wanted to be on the same page as he was. SO, I began in 1 Corinthians and read through to Hebrews. Well, today I went back and picked up in 2 Kings where I had left off some time ago. As I was reading, I asked God for understanding. He told me to go back to Genesis, and for each chapter, write down my understanding of it. I thought, "Wow, this is going to #1 take a long time, He told me I had all the time I needed. #2 that this was no small undertaking, He told me to take it one chapter at a time." So, this is my time to go through the Word of the Lord & get my understanding. Already, it has been eye opening. He will be taking me on a journey, and I am ecstatic to see where it will lead.
Don't Miss God.
Yesterday, I read the story of Naaman to our children. As I was reading these thoughts came to me. The particular passage that spoke to me was this: 2 Kings: 10-13 which says - And Elisha sent a messenger to him, saying "Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh shall be restored to you, and you shall be clean." 11 But Naaman became furious, and went away and said, "Indeed, I said to myself, 'He will surely come out to me, and stand and call on the name of the Lord his God, and wave his hand over the place, and heal the leprosy.' 12 Are not the Abanah, and the Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? Could I not wash in them and be clean?" So he turned and went away in a rage. 13 And his servants came near and spoke, and said, "My father, if the prophet had told you to do something great, would you not have done it? How much more then, when he says to you, 'Wash, and be clean'?"
Naaman, feeling hurt by not receiving what he thought he would from the prophet Elisha got angry & left in a rage. Seeing that, in his mind, there was nothing special about dipping himself in the Jordan River. I think it is that he did want something special, something just for him. As he said, he thought Elisha would come out, call on the Lord, wave his hand over him and he would be healed. I feel he was also somewhat insulted that a messenger was sent to tell him what to do rather than Elisha himself. After being asked if he would have done the great thing, Naaman finally went and dipped himself in the Jordan 7 times and was healed.
I think so often we find ourselves expecting something grand. For the heavens to open and God's hand to come down and touch us, our circumstances. In a way we can actually see. Although He does, it is in a way we don't even see. Sometimes in a way we don't even acknowledge. I think we get a scenario in our minds as to how a certain situation should be rectified. How we should be cleansed, healed, delivered and when it doesn't go that way, it can be a bit disheartening. What we must remember is, if we trust in God, He will cleanse, heal and deliver us from every situation. From the one's we create, the one's the enemy hurls at us, and the one's He feels we must go through to get closer to Him. For myself, there was a situation that arose in my family that I felt warranted a miracle. That only the parting of the sky could rectify. Unfortunately, for my mortal mind it did not happen. What did happen though was the cleansing, the healing, the deliverance. Though in a way that was not anything like we had imagined. Although it was not our expected manifestation of God's glorious power, it was nonetheless a magnificent manifestation of His Awesome power. Just as Naaman may have done, if we are looking for grand movements of the Lord, we will miss His simplicity.I am reminded of Elijah, how when he thought he was the only one left and in the cave. God came to him, told him to stand on the mountain. And how did God reveal Himself? Not in the strong wind, not in the earthquake, not in the fire, but in a still small voice.
Naaman, feeling hurt by not receiving what he thought he would from the prophet Elisha got angry & left in a rage. Seeing that, in his mind, there was nothing special about dipping himself in the Jordan River. I think it is that he did want something special, something just for him. As he said, he thought Elisha would come out, call on the Lord, wave his hand over him and he would be healed. I feel he was also somewhat insulted that a messenger was sent to tell him what to do rather than Elisha himself. After being asked if he would have done the great thing, Naaman finally went and dipped himself in the Jordan 7 times and was healed.
I think so often we find ourselves expecting something grand. For the heavens to open and God's hand to come down and touch us, our circumstances. In a way we can actually see. Although He does, it is in a way we don't even see. Sometimes in a way we don't even acknowledge. I think we get a scenario in our minds as to how a certain situation should be rectified. How we should be cleansed, healed, delivered and when it doesn't go that way, it can be a bit disheartening. What we must remember is, if we trust in God, He will cleanse, heal and deliver us from every situation. From the one's we create, the one's the enemy hurls at us, and the one's He feels we must go through to get closer to Him. For myself, there was a situation that arose in my family that I felt warranted a miracle. That only the parting of the sky could rectify. Unfortunately, for my mortal mind it did not happen. What did happen though was the cleansing, the healing, the deliverance. Though in a way that was not anything like we had imagined. Although it was not our expected manifestation of God's glorious power, it was nonetheless a magnificent manifestation of His Awesome power. Just as Naaman may have done, if we are looking for grand movements of the Lord, we will miss His simplicity.I am reminded of Elijah, how when he thought he was the only one left and in the cave. God came to him, told him to stand on the mountain. And how did God reveal Himself? Not in the strong wind, not in the earthquake, not in the fire, but in a still small voice.
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