For several days now it's been on my heart to write about suicide so it didn't surprise me when I learned that September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. It's not the easiest thing to write or read about. I don't know if you have ever been affected by a love one taking there own life but if you have, I am so sorry. Unfortunately, I know all too well the pain that is left after a loved one takes their own life.
When I was a teenager, I had two friends commit suicide five months apart. Years later, my mom's last boyfriend committed suicide. A couple years after that, a child hood friend committed suicide as well. This year alone, I have had one church friend & two family members commit suicide.
No death is easy to process but death by suicide is even more difficult for many reasons. It's hard because of the why's & why not's that are left unanswered. It's hard because of the guilt you may be feeling or have felt, that you should have known that the person was crying out for help or even worse, that you may have said or done something to "push them over the edge" & caused them to do it. The thoughts & unanswered questions can be so overwhelming that you yourself go on a downward spiral.
And if that isn't enough...most people touched by suicide have to deal for themselves or from others, the question, "Do people who commit suicide go to heaven?" I am amazed by people who very admantly believe & say "that no one who commits suicide goes to heaven". I honestly don't understand how they can say that. The Bible doesn't say that. They then justify their answer that they don't go to heaven because taking your own life is a sin & they are sinning & then dying without confessing & repenting of their sin.
I don't know about you but I know there are times when I sin & haven't confessed & repented of the sin but I don't die. What happens if the day comes & I'm in that situation & I do die? Are you saying that as a believer I'm not going to heaven because I sinned but didn't confess & repent before I died in a car wreck or whatever the situation was? I don't believe that is Biblical.
If you are struggling with this, or with any aspect of suicide, I encourage you to watch the webcast that my senior pastor did on the subject. You can go to www.redeemerchurch.org & click onto webcasts, then click on Pastor Tom, & then Suicide.
For those of you who are struggling with the death of a loved one by suicide or are contemplating suicide yourself, I beg you to get help. Please tell some one. Do not listen to the lies of the enemy that whisper into your ears that, "no one cares", "it's hopeless", "you're worthless." They are lies...straight from the pit of hell!
God says, "For God loved the world so much that he gave his one & only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16
"I praise you because I am fearfully & wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be." Psalm 139:14-16
The following is a song written on a true story of a man that was about to kill himself & then he heard a Third Day song on the radio that gave him hope & he ended up not doing it. I hope this song gives you hope.
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Job & Rahab
Now typically we don't think of Job & Rahab at the same time. One reason is time. There is approx. 400-600 years between the time of Rahab & the time of Job. The second, & probably most prominent reason is their social standing.
The Bible tells us that Job was a righteous man. He tried to live for the Lord in every area of his life. He was well known & respected in the community. He was a wealthy land & livestock owner.
The Bible tells us that Rahab was a prostitute. She lived on the fringe of society, one step away from total rejection.
Job & Rahab seem to have nothing in common but if you look closer, you will find out that they do. They are both noted for their faith & they both were the object of scorn. Although Job had went through tremendous trials, did not understand why he suffered so & questioned God about it, & wanted to die, he did not doubt who God is.
Rahab is one of only two women listed in the "Hall of Faith" in Hebrews 11. "It was by faith that Rahab the prostitute was not destroyed with the people in her city who refused to obey God. For she had given a friendly welcome to the spies." Hebrews 11:31 NLT
Although Job & Rahab's lives were vastly different, God worked through both of them. God works through people, even people like Rahab that we tend to reject. God remembered Rahab because of her faith, not her profession. If you are feeling like you are a failure or are not good enough, remember that both Job & Rahab rose above their situations through their faith in God & so can you!
The Bible tells us that Job was a righteous man. He tried to live for the Lord in every area of his life. He was well known & respected in the community. He was a wealthy land & livestock owner.
The Bible tells us that Rahab was a prostitute. She lived on the fringe of society, one step away from total rejection.
Job & Rahab seem to have nothing in common but if you look closer, you will find out that they do. They are both noted for their faith & they both were the object of scorn. Although Job had went through tremendous trials, did not understand why he suffered so & questioned God about it, & wanted to die, he did not doubt who God is.
Rahab is one of only two women listed in the "Hall of Faith" in Hebrews 11. "It was by faith that Rahab the prostitute was not destroyed with the people in her city who refused to obey God. For she had given a friendly welcome to the spies." Hebrews 11:31 NLT
Although Job & Rahab's lives were vastly different, God worked through both of them. God works through people, even people like Rahab that we tend to reject. God remembered Rahab because of her faith, not her profession. If you are feeling like you are a failure or are not good enough, remember that both Job & Rahab rose above their situations through their faith in God & so can you!
Monday, September 17, 2012
It is time!
December 23, 2012 will mark the 2nd year anniversary of my Christmas miracle. Many of you know about it but not all of you know the details. I was pretty much speechless at the beginning & that's why I did not write about it. Then as time went on, I cherished it in my heart but still was not able to form words in print. I could talk about it but not write it. I'm not sure what caused the "writer's block" but I did not press the issue.
Now as the 2nd year anniversary approaches, I am compelled to write. It's not an easy task because of the emotional weight it carries as well as the sensitivity that needs to be expressed to those involved. One day I will write a book about my childhood. I will not write it to point blame or shame to others but to give glory to God. I will write it to share my testimony of how God can use many "messed up" situations for His glory.
One of the "messed up" situations was the relationship between my father & I. My parents divorced when I was very young. I was raised by my mother & had minimal contact with my father from year to year. I graduated from high school & began attending a college in the city that my Dad lived in. I was hoping & praying that this would be the start of a better relationship. I was wrong...very wrong. What resulted was a 22 year period of no contact from my Dad. That in itself could be a book.
Fast forward to 22 years later to December 15th, 2010. I woke up that day feeling awful. Not physically but emotionally & mentally. It's a feeling that haunted me all day. It was my Dad's 70th birthday & I had no idea if he was dead or alive. The hope of us ever reconciling on this side of heaven was fading fast & I found it almost unbearable. As I cried out to the Lord for relief, I heard him say, "Try to contact him one more time." I was taken back by his response. I was thinking, "Why? He's not responded in all these years. Why should I think he would respond now?" Again I heard him say, "Try to contact him one more time."
I dabbed away the tears & with determined resolved set out trying to find out where he lived. After a couple of hours on the computer, I had a current address & some other information. Now I could proceed but I had no idea what to say or how to say it. I prayed to Jesus to help me. I then did what I felt he was leading me to do which was to send him a package which contained a Christmas letter with a sentence or two hand written from me, some pictures, & a box of chocolates. I went to the post office & mailed the package. For some reason, from the moment that I dropped it into the slot, I knew I was going to get a response this time. But the response I was expecting, was not the response I got. I was expecting a call from my Dad saying that he was 70 years old now & it had been too long & to let it go....click.
For 22 years I had prayed many things. First & foremost, that I would forgive & not let bitterness & anger grow in my heart. Second, I prayed that my Dad would come to know the Lord & third, I prayed that we would be reconciled if not on earth, in heaven. God's answers to those prayers came full cirlce on December 23rd, 2010 when my phone rang around 1:30pm. I will never forget that call.
I looked down at my phone to see an unfamiliar number with no name listed. I immediately recognized the area code as being the same area code as my Dad's. This was it! The moment of truth. I took a deep breath & then answered the phone. I was totally surprised when I said, "Hello," & a woman's voice replied. I then learned that the woman was my Dad's "companion of 11 years" as she put it, & who is now my step mom. After her & I talked for awhile, my Dad got on the phone. To this today it's still surreal when I think about it. It definitely wasn't your typical conversation between a father & his daughter, but it was heavenly to me.
That call was a road to recovery & to a restored relationship, neither of which would have been possible without God. You see, the first two things I prayed for, especially the first one, was essential in what happened. If I would have had even an ounce of bitterness or unforgiveness in me regarding our situation, the restoration would not have happened. The reconciliation could have, but not true restoration. The second thing, my Dad knowing the Lord, made the reconciliation & restoration so much sweeter! He is not the same Dad & I thank God for that!
Now as my Dad approaches his 72nd birthday I am reminded that our time together is short. I don't know how much more time we will have together, but I know this....I am thankful for every minute of it....and I love him very much!
Now as the 2nd year anniversary approaches, I am compelled to write. It's not an easy task because of the emotional weight it carries as well as the sensitivity that needs to be expressed to those involved. One day I will write a book about my childhood. I will not write it to point blame or shame to others but to give glory to God. I will write it to share my testimony of how God can use many "messed up" situations for His glory.
One of the "messed up" situations was the relationship between my father & I. My parents divorced when I was very young. I was raised by my mother & had minimal contact with my father from year to year. I graduated from high school & began attending a college in the city that my Dad lived in. I was hoping & praying that this would be the start of a better relationship. I was wrong...very wrong. What resulted was a 22 year period of no contact from my Dad. That in itself could be a book.
Fast forward to 22 years later to December 15th, 2010. I woke up that day feeling awful. Not physically but emotionally & mentally. It's a feeling that haunted me all day. It was my Dad's 70th birthday & I had no idea if he was dead or alive. The hope of us ever reconciling on this side of heaven was fading fast & I found it almost unbearable. As I cried out to the Lord for relief, I heard him say, "Try to contact him one more time." I was taken back by his response. I was thinking, "Why? He's not responded in all these years. Why should I think he would respond now?" Again I heard him say, "Try to contact him one more time."
I dabbed away the tears & with determined resolved set out trying to find out where he lived. After a couple of hours on the computer, I had a current address & some other information. Now I could proceed but I had no idea what to say or how to say it. I prayed to Jesus to help me. I then did what I felt he was leading me to do which was to send him a package which contained a Christmas letter with a sentence or two hand written from me, some pictures, & a box of chocolates. I went to the post office & mailed the package. For some reason, from the moment that I dropped it into the slot, I knew I was going to get a response this time. But the response I was expecting, was not the response I got. I was expecting a call from my Dad saying that he was 70 years old now & it had been too long & to let it go....click.
For 22 years I had prayed many things. First & foremost, that I would forgive & not let bitterness & anger grow in my heart. Second, I prayed that my Dad would come to know the Lord & third, I prayed that we would be reconciled if not on earth, in heaven. God's answers to those prayers came full cirlce on December 23rd, 2010 when my phone rang around 1:30pm. I will never forget that call.
I looked down at my phone to see an unfamiliar number with no name listed. I immediately recognized the area code as being the same area code as my Dad's. This was it! The moment of truth. I took a deep breath & then answered the phone. I was totally surprised when I said, "Hello," & a woman's voice replied. I then learned that the woman was my Dad's "companion of 11 years" as she put it, & who is now my step mom. After her & I talked for awhile, my Dad got on the phone. To this today it's still surreal when I think about it. It definitely wasn't your typical conversation between a father & his daughter, but it was heavenly to me.
That call was a road to recovery & to a restored relationship, neither of which would have been possible without God. You see, the first two things I prayed for, especially the first one, was essential in what happened. If I would have had even an ounce of bitterness or unforgiveness in me regarding our situation, the restoration would not have happened. The reconciliation could have, but not true restoration. The second thing, my Dad knowing the Lord, made the reconciliation & restoration so much sweeter! He is not the same Dad & I thank God for that!
Now as my Dad approaches his 72nd birthday I am reminded that our time together is short. I don't know how much more time we will have together, but I know this....I am thankful for every minute of it....and I love him very much!
Write!
Once again I've been disobiedent. It's been almost a year since my last post although God has told me to write. I've used all kinds of excuses such as I'm busy raising 4 young children, I've been learning from others as I grow in my walk with the Lord as well as mentoring others to do the same, & last but certainly not least, I experienced the death of 10 loved ones in a five month period.
So as I come out of the ashes of the past year, still hurting & healing at the same time, I come out stronger in some aspects & gentler in others. I come out determined to do things right while at the same time allowing grace to cover my many mistakes. I come out with new energy in some areas & exhaustion in others. I come out with a stronger love & commitment, but also a strong restlessness & yearning to do all that God has created me to be.
I feel the pull of others all around me while I constantly want to push beyond the limitations that they set upon me. I want to go north while others around me want to go south. I want Italian Creme when everyone else is ordering chocolate. I want to be different & normal at the same time.
And after a long time away...I want to write!
Friday, October 28, 2011
3am reading
So I woke up at 3:11am this morning & felt prompted to get out of bed & read my Bible. I immediately went to 2 Kings 2 which is where Elijah is taken up to heaven & Elisha's solo ministry begins.
Now I personally know why I am suppose to be studying the ministry of Elijah & Elisha now so it was not surprising to me why I ended up reading this. What did surprise me is some things that I haven't "caught" before when reading the same passages such as 2 Kings 2:23-24 NLT which states: "Elisha left Jericho & went up to Bethel. As he was walking along the road, a group of boys from the town began mocking & making fun of him. "Go away, baldy!" they chanted. "Go away baldy!" Elisha turned around & looked at them, & he cursed them in the name of the Lord. Then two bears came out of the woods & mauled forty-two of them."
I don't know about you but I thought that was just plain weird! Then I read my footnote for those two verses & it helped put things into perspective for me. This comes from the Life Application Study Bible, NLT.
"This group of boys was from Bethel, the religious center of idolatry in the northern kingdom, & they probably were warning Elisha not to speak against their immorality as Elijah had done. They were not merely teasing Elisha about his baldness, but showing severe disrespect for Elisha's message & God's power. They may have also jeered because of their disbelief in the chariot of fire that had taken Elijah. When Elisha cursed them, he did not call out the bears himself. God sent them as a judgement for their callous unbelief.
These young men mocked God's messenger & paid for it with their lives. Making fun of religious leaders has been a popular sport through the ages. To take a stand for God is to be different from the world & vunerable to verbal abuse. When we are cynical & sarcastic toward religious leaders, we are in danger of mocking not just the person but also the spiritual message. While we are not to condone the sin that some leaders commit, we need to pray for them, not laugh at them. True leaders, those who follow God, need to be heard with respect & encouraged in their ministry."
Now I personally know why I am suppose to be studying the ministry of Elijah & Elisha now so it was not surprising to me why I ended up reading this. What did surprise me is some things that I haven't "caught" before when reading the same passages such as 2 Kings 2:23-24 NLT which states: "Elisha left Jericho & went up to Bethel. As he was walking along the road, a group of boys from the town began mocking & making fun of him. "Go away, baldy!" they chanted. "Go away baldy!" Elisha turned around & looked at them, & he cursed them in the name of the Lord. Then two bears came out of the woods & mauled forty-two of them."
I don't know about you but I thought that was just plain weird! Then I read my footnote for those two verses & it helped put things into perspective for me. This comes from the Life Application Study Bible, NLT.
"This group of boys was from Bethel, the religious center of idolatry in the northern kingdom, & they probably were warning Elisha not to speak against their immorality as Elijah had done. They were not merely teasing Elisha about his baldness, but showing severe disrespect for Elisha's message & God's power. They may have also jeered because of their disbelief in the chariot of fire that had taken Elijah. When Elisha cursed them, he did not call out the bears himself. God sent them as a judgement for their callous unbelief.
These young men mocked God's messenger & paid for it with their lives. Making fun of religious leaders has been a popular sport through the ages. To take a stand for God is to be different from the world & vunerable to verbal abuse. When we are cynical & sarcastic toward religious leaders, we are in danger of mocking not just the person but also the spiritual message. While we are not to condone the sin that some leaders commit, we need to pray for them, not laugh at them. True leaders, those who follow God, need to be heard with respect & encouraged in their ministry."
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Keep the small stuff small...
How Easy to Judge!
One person esteems one day above another; another esteems every day alike. Let each be fully convinced in his own mind. Romans 14:5
Recommended Reading: Romans 14:1-13
When Charles E. Fuller helped pioneer the ministry of radio evangelism in the 1920s, a fellow clergyman denounced him. Satan is the prince of the power of the air, said the man; so how can Christians have anything to do with the airwaves? Furthermore, claimed the critic, radio would "give one preacher too much prominence," would be too "costly," and would develop a "stay-at-home" attitude among believers.
How easy it often is to judge! We'd have a less critical spirit and fewer "church fights" if we better understood Romans 14. Here the apostle Paul tells us that while we must be adamant about the fundamental truths of the Christian faith, we should have maturity when it comes to non-essential matters. The Bible's rule is: "Let each be fully convinced in his own mind" (Romans 14:5). After all, Paul asked bluntly, "Who are you to judge another's servant?" (verse 4).
Our core beliefs are unshakable and unchanging. But on secondary issues, there's greater liberty for a variety of opinions. Think about this: If we all agree on everything, we double our chances of being wrong.
"If two people agree about everything, one of them is unnecessary."Ruth Bell Graham
After I read the above devotion by Dr. David Jeremiah I was thinking about some of the petty things that people in the church argue or disagree about. Things like if you sit too much, stand too much, too much up & down, wearing hats, dressing up, dressing down, if SS is before or after church, the list goes on & on. I mean seriously, in the "big picture of things" does it really matter? Hopefully many of you will say, "No" they don't & we shouldn't get hung up on those things, but unfortunately it is often things like these that divide the church.
Then I thought about this outside of the church. Think about the small things at home that really get to us like a spouse or child not closing cabinet doors, leaving towels on the floor, not putting shoes away, the list goes on & on. Truth is, these things don't really "matter" in our relationships or how that person provides & takes care of the family, or if the child grows up to be a teacher, nurse, or engineer. If you are a type A, anal person like myself, it is no easy task not to take those things to heart even though deep down I know it really doesn't matter. So I need to remind myself to look at the person & their good qualities, not the mess or disorganization & be very thankful to God for allowing them to be a part of my life.
One person esteems one day above another; another esteems every day alike. Let each be fully convinced in his own mind. Romans 14:5
Recommended Reading: Romans 14:1-13
When Charles E. Fuller helped pioneer the ministry of radio evangelism in the 1920s, a fellow clergyman denounced him. Satan is the prince of the power of the air, said the man; so how can Christians have anything to do with the airwaves? Furthermore, claimed the critic, radio would "give one preacher too much prominence," would be too "costly," and would develop a "stay-at-home" attitude among believers.
How easy it often is to judge! We'd have a less critical spirit and fewer "church fights" if we better understood Romans 14. Here the apostle Paul tells us that while we must be adamant about the fundamental truths of the Christian faith, we should have maturity when it comes to non-essential matters. The Bible's rule is: "Let each be fully convinced in his own mind" (Romans 14:5). After all, Paul asked bluntly, "Who are you to judge another's servant?" (verse 4).
Our core beliefs are unshakable and unchanging. But on secondary issues, there's greater liberty for a variety of opinions. Think about this: If we all agree on everything, we double our chances of being wrong.
"If two people agree about everything, one of them is unnecessary."Ruth Bell Graham
After I read the above devotion by Dr. David Jeremiah I was thinking about some of the petty things that people in the church argue or disagree about. Things like if you sit too much, stand too much, too much up & down, wearing hats, dressing up, dressing down, if SS is before or after church, the list goes on & on. I mean seriously, in the "big picture of things" does it really matter? Hopefully many of you will say, "No" they don't & we shouldn't get hung up on those things, but unfortunately it is often things like these that divide the church.
Then I thought about this outside of the church. Think about the small things at home that really get to us like a spouse or child not closing cabinet doors, leaving towels on the floor, not putting shoes away, the list goes on & on. Truth is, these things don't really "matter" in our relationships or how that person provides & takes care of the family, or if the child grows up to be a teacher, nurse, or engineer. If you are a type A, anal person like myself, it is no easy task not to take those things to heart even though deep down I know it really doesn't matter. So I need to remind myself to look at the person & their good qualities, not the mess or disorganization & be very thankful to God for allowing them to be a part of my life.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Encourage One Another...
I don't know about you but I can't seem to get enough encouragement these days. It seems every where you turn there is someone trying to bring you down by discouragement. Unfortunately, I had a vivid reminder of that this week when I was at the local swimming pool. Two women, who obviously didn't have anything better to do, thought it would be fun to loudly & profusely verbally attack me & my parenting skills in public. I have never met these women before...and I hope that I don't run into them again anytime soon. We shouldn't have to deal with nonsense like that. There are enough challenges in life, we don't need random, mean people adding to them. Today's devotion from Dr. David Jeremiah really spoke to me about encouragement. Not just to my family & friends, but to strangers on the street. I hope it blesses you as it has blessed me. Be encouraged & encouraging today! {{{HUGS}}}
Hidden Messages
"Let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works." Hebrews 10:24
Recommended Reading: Hebrews 12:1-3
Recently a famous cereal company started wrapping their rice treats in writable wrapping paper. As parents pack lunches for their youngsters (or wives for their husbands), they can now use a permanent marker to jot a little note: I love you! Have a good day! Hugs and kisses!
The new wrappers prompted a Canadian group to survey how many parents actually add little personal notes to their children's lunch bags. Researchers found that while children desperately need encouragement at school, over half of Canadian parents never send notes along with their children's sandwiches.
While it was a great idea to utilize the writable packaging, we can't wait for cereal companies to remind us to be affirmers. There are countless little ways every day to boost your child, your spouse, your friend, and even a total stranger. It's up to us to begin cheering one another now. Why not think of a way you can snap, crackle, and pop with encouragement for someone today.
"We need to encourage one another to fix our eyes on the risen Jesus and thus to stir each other up toward love and good deeds." Iain M. Duguid
Hidden Messages
"Let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works." Hebrews 10:24
Recommended Reading: Hebrews 12:1-3
Recently a famous cereal company started wrapping their rice treats in writable wrapping paper. As parents pack lunches for their youngsters (or wives for their husbands), they can now use a permanent marker to jot a little note: I love you! Have a good day! Hugs and kisses!
The new wrappers prompted a Canadian group to survey how many parents actually add little personal notes to their children's lunch bags. Researchers found that while children desperately need encouragement at school, over half of Canadian parents never send notes along with their children's sandwiches.
While it was a great idea to utilize the writable packaging, we can't wait for cereal companies to remind us to be affirmers. There are countless little ways every day to boost your child, your spouse, your friend, and even a total stranger. It's up to us to begin cheering one another now. Why not think of a way you can snap, crackle, and pop with encouragement for someone today.
"We need to encourage one another to fix our eyes on the risen Jesus and thus to stir each other up toward love and good deeds." Iain M. Duguid
Monday, June 27, 2011
Mercy & Grace
Mercy withholds the knife from the heart of Isaac.
Grace provides a ram in the thicket.
Genesis 22:11-14
Mercy runs to forgive the prodigal.
Grace throws a party with a robe, a ring, & a fatted calf.
Luke 15:20-24
Mercy hears the cry of the thief on the cross.
Grace promises paradise that very day.
Luke 23:39-43
Mercy converts Paul on the road to Damascus.
Grace calls him to be the great apostle.
Acts 9:1-6, 17
Mercy closes the door to hell.
Grace opens the door to heaven.
Ephesians 2:8-9
and the diiference between mercy & grace is this
Mercy witholds from us what we deserve.
Grace gives us what we do not deserve.
Romans 5:20
written by Turning Point Ministries
Grace provides a ram in the thicket.
Genesis 22:11-14
Mercy runs to forgive the prodigal.
Grace throws a party with a robe, a ring, & a fatted calf.
Luke 15:20-24
Mercy hears the cry of the thief on the cross.
Grace promises paradise that very day.
Luke 23:39-43
Mercy converts Paul on the road to Damascus.
Grace calls him to be the great apostle.
Acts 9:1-6, 17
Mercy closes the door to hell.
Grace opens the door to heaven.
Ephesians 2:8-9
and the diiference between mercy & grace is this
Mercy witholds from us what we deserve.
Grace gives us what we do not deserve.
Romans 5:20
written by Turning Point Ministries
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
The Moldy Life...
I have been allergic to mold for as long as I can remember. And I'm not talking just a little allergic...I'm talking very, yucky sick allergic. Recently I found out that I have been healed of being allergic to 3 pages of allergens except for mold. I was thrilled to get the news...especially regarding the food allergens!
However, one of my biggest threats still remains...mold. I try to avoid it as much as I can but unfortunately it's pretty much everywhere to some degree...just like sin. Everyday I seek God's mercies anew. I try not to sin but fall short in one way or another. I try not to get sick from other people's "mold" or sin but sometimes it's unavoidable.
So what can I do? I can seek the Lord every day in prayer & in His Word. I can daily put on the "Full Armor of God" found in Ephesians 6:10-18. I can surround myself with sincere Christians who daily seek to know & do God's will. I can live in the power of the Holy Spirit.
"So be careful how you live. Do not be like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Do not act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. Do not be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms & hymns & spiritual songs among yourselves, & making music to the Lord in your hearts. And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:15-20
However, one of my biggest threats still remains...mold. I try to avoid it as much as I can but unfortunately it's pretty much everywhere to some degree...just like sin. Everyday I seek God's mercies anew. I try not to sin but fall short in one way or another. I try not to get sick from other people's "mold" or sin but sometimes it's unavoidable.
So what can I do? I can seek the Lord every day in prayer & in His Word. I can daily put on the "Full Armor of God" found in Ephesians 6:10-18. I can surround myself with sincere Christians who daily seek to know & do God's will. I can live in the power of the Holy Spirit.
"So be careful how you live. Do not be like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Do not act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. Do not be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms & hymns & spiritual songs among yourselves, & making music to the Lord in your hearts. And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:15-20
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Be kind and merciful...
I don't know about you but I get really tired from time to time. Not just physically tired, but emotionally, mentally, & spiritually tired. I get tired of doing good & not always seeing the results from it that I want to see. Sometimes I just get tired of "keep keeping on." This devotion today from Dr. David Jeremiah really spoke to me of that. We are to not grow weary of doing good & showing God's mercy to others.
Sowing Seeds of Kindness
"Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith." Galatians 6:9-10
Recommended Reading
1 Peter 3:8-9
Good deeds have a way of coming back to bless us. John Wooden, the great basketball coach who passed away last summer at the age of 99, was admired for the inspirational influence he left on players and fans alike. His life was shaped by a seven-point creed. He often passed it along to others, explaining that his father had given him this bit of advice upon his graduation from grammar school.
Be true to yourself. Make each day your masterpiece. Help others. Drink deeply from good books, especially the Bible. Make friendship a fine art. Build a shelter against a rainy day. Pray for guidance and give thanks for your blessings every day.
When we are kind to others and practice a merciful attitude, we become recipients of mercy ourselves. Just as the sower reaps the crop he has sown, so do merciful people reap what has been planted in the lives of others.
Don't get tired of doing good!
"Talent is God-given; be humble. Fame is man-given; be grateful. Conceit is self-given; be careful." John Wooden
Sowing Seeds of Kindness
"Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith." Galatians 6:9-10
Recommended Reading
1 Peter 3:8-9
Good deeds have a way of coming back to bless us. John Wooden, the great basketball coach who passed away last summer at the age of 99, was admired for the inspirational influence he left on players and fans alike. His life was shaped by a seven-point creed. He often passed it along to others, explaining that his father had given him this bit of advice upon his graduation from grammar school.
Be true to yourself. Make each day your masterpiece. Help others. Drink deeply from good books, especially the Bible. Make friendship a fine art. Build a shelter against a rainy day. Pray for guidance and give thanks for your blessings every day.
When we are kind to others and practice a merciful attitude, we become recipients of mercy ourselves. Just as the sower reaps the crop he has sown, so do merciful people reap what has been planted in the lives of others.
Don't get tired of doing good!
"Talent is God-given; be humble. Fame is man-given; be grateful. Conceit is self-given; be careful." John Wooden
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Inner Struggle...
A lot of people have asked me lately if we have decided if & when we are going to Africa. As I reflect on my answer, I realize how smug & superficial it is. It goes something like this, "No, not yet. Randy has been praying about it & feels the Lord is calling him to draw closer to his wife & children right now & not to go to Africa. I however, feel that we are still suppose to go & that we are both suppose to be working on things right now to help prepare us to go. But the bottom line is that it's Randy's ultimate decision because he is the head of the household & he's the one who will be held accountable for the decision."
Although I believe all that to be true, I have been using it as an excuse, possibly even an "escape." Because as much as I want to do God's will, as much as I listen to the Chris Tomlin song every day & sing, "Where you go, I'll go, Where you stay, I'll stay, When you move, I'll move, I will follow you. Who you love, I'll love, How you serve, I'll serve, If this life I lose, I will follow you. I will follow you." I am really looking for an escape clause to keep living the comfortable life I am living. Is that what I should be doing? Of course not...and there lies the inner struggle. Knowing what I should be doing. Does that mean I try to by pass my husband's authority?...absolutely not! But it doesn't mean that I just sit around with my feet kicked up & eat bon bons all day either. I need to live each day purposeful for the Lord. I need to pray that HIS will be done. I need to pray that Randy, my children, & I will be READY when He calls us to do the next major thing He calls us to do. I need to stop listening to the lies of the devil, the "well intentioned" comments of people, & focus on Jesus. The following devotion gave me "the kick in the pants" that I have needed. I pray that it inspires you to get "moving" for the Lord as well.
5 Minutes with K.P. – Choosing Not to Return
By gfa316
After we are saved and begin our relationship with God, we learn that our journey with Him has just started. We discover every day that the ordinary components of life—relationships, emotional security, accomplishments, our profession or position, financial stability or even our cultural or national heritage—can hinder us from fully giving our lives for His purposes and growing closer to Him. One by one, God calls us to walk away from these things.
Abraham, Moses and Joseph—all those in the “cloud of witnesses” who have gone before us—were also called to walk away from their “normal” lives (see Hebrews 11:4–12:1). Let us see how they responded:
All these people . . . admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them (Hebrews 11:13–16, niv).
The “opportunity to return”—what a significant phrase this is!
It is a challenge to follow His call to walk away from these things—but it is an even greater challenge to realize we always have the chance to turn around, to go back to a life that is more comfortable.
Our Enemy, the devil, knows this, and he works hard to persuade us to do so. Let us look at what he uses to try to make us return:
Material things. Demas, one of Paul’s co-workers, had this problem. This man traveled so many miles with Paul and shared hardships with him; he could have become another Timothy, but Paul says of him, “Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world” (2 Timothy 4:10). We will face financial struggles of some sort, have friends who are better off than we are, and feel the need to do something to improve our lives or take better care of our families. The devil will use this. It’s a strong pull, but we must make the decision: Life or death, we will not return.
The fear of the unknown. The children of Israel suffered under terrible slavery in Egypt. Yet after God led them out and did mighty acts on their behalf, they longed to return, remembering the leeks and the garlic. What happened? They were afraid of what would happen to them in an unfamiliar land filled with giants. We, too, face unknowns; what we must remember is that God is bigger than the giants, our problems and our fears.
Losing our focus and vision. Paul’s earthly journey was marked by his passion to know the Lord intimately. He said he counted everything as a loss compared to knowing Christ (see Philippians 3:8). Those in the cloud of witnesses had one thing on their mind—their desire to be in heaven with the Lord. Our aim is the Lord Himself. Hebrews says, “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus” (Hebrews 12:2, niv).
And out of that pursuit of Him, who first loved us, comes a heart to reach the lost. Jesus came to seek and save the lost (see Luke 19:10). And as we grow to know Him more, what is important to Him becomes important to us. Out of Paul’s pursuit of the Lord came an undying passion for the lost. He was constrained by his love for Christ to live a life of incredible suffering, from which many heard the Good News (see 2 Corinthians 5:13–14, kjv).
Paul kept his focus and was able to say near the end of his life, “I have finished the race” (2 Timothy 4:7). You and I will stay faithful to continue on this journey as long as we keep the end in mind. Don’t let the devil use day-to-day discouragements to take you off course.
Spiritual deception. So many Christians lose sight of God’s call when they become ensnared in self-focus and introspection—all in the name of godliness, deeper life and devotion.
Only one theme runs through the entire Bible: Christ, the Savior of the world. The Old Testament promises the coming of the Redeemer. The four Gospels narrate the fulfillment of Old Testament promises through Jesus’ birth, death and resurrection, thus completing the work of redemption. The book of Acts is the account of those who knew Jesus as Lord as they went about preaching the Good News of Christ throughout the whole world. The Epistles instruct believers on living and demonstrating Christ’s life to the world. And the book of Revelation is the final chapter in which we, the redeemed, will meet at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb and will be with Him forever and ever.
Knowing Christ and walking intimately with Him will produce a love and passion for the lost world. In more than 40 years of serving the Lord, I have found that the more I get to know the Lord, the more concern I have for the lost. It is no longer about the need, but it is for the Lord’s sake. If our so-called “deeper life” doesn’t have this result, it is a counterfeit and a distraction.
So as we face the pull of this world and the pressure from the devil to walk away from God’s call, let us remember that we are on earth for only a short time. We are strangers and aliens to this world. We only have a visa for this life, but our passport is from another country.
The men and women of Hebrews chose not to return to their earthly country because they recognized that God’s work went beyond time and space. Their true country was a heavenly one. May the Lord find us, too, focused on what is real and authentic—beyond circumstances, what we feel, what others say or what the Enemy throws at us. And if He were to write another chapter like Hebrews 11, may He use your name and mine as examples there for others to follow.
This world is not our home—let us journey toward that eternal city.
Destined to Soar © 2009 by K.P. Yohannan
If you would like more information about Gospel for Asia, please visit their website. www.gfa.org
Although I believe all that to be true, I have been using it as an excuse, possibly even an "escape." Because as much as I want to do God's will, as much as I listen to the Chris Tomlin song every day & sing, "Where you go, I'll go, Where you stay, I'll stay, When you move, I'll move, I will follow you. Who you love, I'll love, How you serve, I'll serve, If this life I lose, I will follow you. I will follow you." I am really looking for an escape clause to keep living the comfortable life I am living. Is that what I should be doing? Of course not...and there lies the inner struggle. Knowing what I should be doing. Does that mean I try to by pass my husband's authority?...absolutely not! But it doesn't mean that I just sit around with my feet kicked up & eat bon bons all day either. I need to live each day purposeful for the Lord. I need to pray that HIS will be done. I need to pray that Randy, my children, & I will be READY when He calls us to do the next major thing He calls us to do. I need to stop listening to the lies of the devil, the "well intentioned" comments of people, & focus on Jesus. The following devotion gave me "the kick in the pants" that I have needed. I pray that it inspires you to get "moving" for the Lord as well.
5 Minutes with K.P. – Choosing Not to Return
By gfa316
After we are saved and begin our relationship with God, we learn that our journey with Him has just started. We discover every day that the ordinary components of life—relationships, emotional security, accomplishments, our profession or position, financial stability or even our cultural or national heritage—can hinder us from fully giving our lives for His purposes and growing closer to Him. One by one, God calls us to walk away from these things.
Abraham, Moses and Joseph—all those in the “cloud of witnesses” who have gone before us—were also called to walk away from their “normal” lives (see Hebrews 11:4–12:1). Let us see how they responded:
All these people . . . admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them (Hebrews 11:13–16, niv).
The “opportunity to return”—what a significant phrase this is!
It is a challenge to follow His call to walk away from these things—but it is an even greater challenge to realize we always have the chance to turn around, to go back to a life that is more comfortable.
Our Enemy, the devil, knows this, and he works hard to persuade us to do so. Let us look at what he uses to try to make us return:
Material things. Demas, one of Paul’s co-workers, had this problem. This man traveled so many miles with Paul and shared hardships with him; he could have become another Timothy, but Paul says of him, “Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world” (2 Timothy 4:10). We will face financial struggles of some sort, have friends who are better off than we are, and feel the need to do something to improve our lives or take better care of our families. The devil will use this. It’s a strong pull, but we must make the decision: Life or death, we will not return.
The fear of the unknown. The children of Israel suffered under terrible slavery in Egypt. Yet after God led them out and did mighty acts on their behalf, they longed to return, remembering the leeks and the garlic. What happened? They were afraid of what would happen to them in an unfamiliar land filled with giants. We, too, face unknowns; what we must remember is that God is bigger than the giants, our problems and our fears.
Losing our focus and vision. Paul’s earthly journey was marked by his passion to know the Lord intimately. He said he counted everything as a loss compared to knowing Christ (see Philippians 3:8). Those in the cloud of witnesses had one thing on their mind—their desire to be in heaven with the Lord. Our aim is the Lord Himself. Hebrews says, “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus” (Hebrews 12:2, niv).
And out of that pursuit of Him, who first loved us, comes a heart to reach the lost. Jesus came to seek and save the lost (see Luke 19:10). And as we grow to know Him more, what is important to Him becomes important to us. Out of Paul’s pursuit of the Lord came an undying passion for the lost. He was constrained by his love for Christ to live a life of incredible suffering, from which many heard the Good News (see 2 Corinthians 5:13–14, kjv).
Paul kept his focus and was able to say near the end of his life, “I have finished the race” (2 Timothy 4:7). You and I will stay faithful to continue on this journey as long as we keep the end in mind. Don’t let the devil use day-to-day discouragements to take you off course.
Spiritual deception. So many Christians lose sight of God’s call when they become ensnared in self-focus and introspection—all in the name of godliness, deeper life and devotion.
Only one theme runs through the entire Bible: Christ, the Savior of the world. The Old Testament promises the coming of the Redeemer. The four Gospels narrate the fulfillment of Old Testament promises through Jesus’ birth, death and resurrection, thus completing the work of redemption. The book of Acts is the account of those who knew Jesus as Lord as they went about preaching the Good News of Christ throughout the whole world. The Epistles instruct believers on living and demonstrating Christ’s life to the world. And the book of Revelation is the final chapter in which we, the redeemed, will meet at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb and will be with Him forever and ever.
Knowing Christ and walking intimately with Him will produce a love and passion for the lost world. In more than 40 years of serving the Lord, I have found that the more I get to know the Lord, the more concern I have for the lost. It is no longer about the need, but it is for the Lord’s sake. If our so-called “deeper life” doesn’t have this result, it is a counterfeit and a distraction.
So as we face the pull of this world and the pressure from the devil to walk away from God’s call, let us remember that we are on earth for only a short time. We are strangers and aliens to this world. We only have a visa for this life, but our passport is from another country.
The men and women of Hebrews chose not to return to their earthly country because they recognized that God’s work went beyond time and space. Their true country was a heavenly one. May the Lord find us, too, focused on what is real and authentic—beyond circumstances, what we feel, what others say or what the Enemy throws at us. And if He were to write another chapter like Hebrews 11, may He use your name and mine as examples there for others to follow.
This world is not our home—let us journey toward that eternal city.
Destined to Soar © 2009 by K.P. Yohannan
If you would like more information about Gospel for Asia, please visit their website. www.gfa.org
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
BusyNESS to the point of craziNESS...
How many times in the past week have you spoke to someone & you asked them, "How are you?" and their response was, "Okay...we've just been so busy." I can't even count how many times I've heard that type of response in the past week let alone the past month. It's almost to the point where you know that is going to be the response & you don't even want to ask, "How are you?" because that's the only response you get. You hear all about what the person or family has been doing...as in how many activities they have done in a day...not how the person or people are actually doing mentally, emotionally, or spiritually.
I have notice that even I have used the "busy" reponse a few times in the past month because we have been doing more things...and you know what....I don't like it. I know I may be an "alien" for saying this but it's true. It's not that me or my family is lazy. We just don't think that being a family consists of attending 100 activities a week. And no...activities are not bad...but like with everything else in life...balance is key. We should have enough time available to just "be" with our family members & friends & be available to help someone in need. It's hard to do that if you're just running from one activity to the next all day long 7 days a week.
The following devotion from Dr. David Jeremiah reflects on this more.
Love Is Spelled T-i-m-e
"By night on my bed I sought the one I love; I sought him, but I did not find him."
Song of Solomon 3:1
Recommended Reading
John 13:34-35
A couple decades ago, Christian publishers released waves of books on marriage, family, and childrearing from a biblical perspective. Many of them countered a popular cultural notion that championed quality of time over quantity of time in relationships. Not so, Christian authors said: Quantity of time spent in relationships is just as important as quality of time, if not more so. Love, some suggested, could be spelled t-i-m-e.
It won't come as a surprise to modern married couples that the first spat in the marriage of King Solomon and his Shulamite bride was over the issue of time. Shulamith expected Solomon home at a certain hour and he showed up in the middle of the night. And Shulamith was too offended to get up and let him in. They patched things up in due course, but the tension they experienced is a warning to anyone in any relationship: There is no substitute for time spent together. Whether in marriage, childrearing, a relationship with God, or just good friends, growth and intimacy grow over time.
Consider your relationships today: Are you giving the people you love the time they deserve?
"We have been too busy chopping wood to take time out to sharpen the ax." Vance Havner
I have notice that even I have used the "busy" reponse a few times in the past month because we have been doing more things...and you know what....I don't like it. I know I may be an "alien" for saying this but it's true. It's not that me or my family is lazy. We just don't think that being a family consists of attending 100 activities a week. And no...activities are not bad...but like with everything else in life...balance is key. We should have enough time available to just "be" with our family members & friends & be available to help someone in need. It's hard to do that if you're just running from one activity to the next all day long 7 days a week.
The following devotion from Dr. David Jeremiah reflects on this more.
Love Is Spelled T-i-m-e
"By night on my bed I sought the one I love; I sought him, but I did not find him."
Song of Solomon 3:1
Recommended Reading
John 13:34-35
A couple decades ago, Christian publishers released waves of books on marriage, family, and childrearing from a biblical perspective. Many of them countered a popular cultural notion that championed quality of time over quantity of time in relationships. Not so, Christian authors said: Quantity of time spent in relationships is just as important as quality of time, if not more so. Love, some suggested, could be spelled t-i-m-e.
It won't come as a surprise to modern married couples that the first spat in the marriage of King Solomon and his Shulamite bride was over the issue of time. Shulamith expected Solomon home at a certain hour and he showed up in the middle of the night. And Shulamith was too offended to get up and let him in. They patched things up in due course, but the tension they experienced is a warning to anyone in any relationship: There is no substitute for time spent together. Whether in marriage, childrearing, a relationship with God, or just good friends, growth and intimacy grow over time.
Consider your relationships today: Are you giving the people you love the time they deserve?
"We have been too busy chopping wood to take time out to sharpen the ax." Vance Havner
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Busted...again!
So I was standing in a local Women of Joy conference last weekend praising the Lord when I heard him say, "You're not talking." I'm thinking what? I talk all the time! Well, maybe not, all the time, but enough! Then I heard God clearly say (yes, Anna & Jordyn...on my purple phone :o), "You haven't been telling people about me or what I have done in your life & what I want to do in their lives. You need to start writing again." And of course my response was, "You know I love to write God, but I've been a little short on time these days." Needless to say, He wasn't impressed by that.
Right now writing is probably the best way for me to "talk" to people about the things God wants me to say. Sometimes I can go a whole day without talking to anyone but my husband, my children, & their bus drivers. And it's not because I'm antisocial. If you know me at all, you know that I am the exact opposite. It just happens to be the season of life that I am in right now. Most of my "work" happens in my home or in my van which limits my face to face time with people. I am not complaining, in fact, I think this is just training for the next "season" in my life, but it still doesn't excuse me from sharing God's love & hope with others. So I will be blogging more. I hope to post at least twice a week. So stay tuned...the "talker" is back! :o)
Right now writing is probably the best way for me to "talk" to people about the things God wants me to say. Sometimes I can go a whole day without talking to anyone but my husband, my children, & their bus drivers. And it's not because I'm antisocial. If you know me at all, you know that I am the exact opposite. It just happens to be the season of life that I am in right now. Most of my "work" happens in my home or in my van which limits my face to face time with people. I am not complaining, in fact, I think this is just training for the next "season" in my life, but it still doesn't excuse me from sharing God's love & hope with others. So I will be blogging more. I hope to post at least twice a week. So stay tuned...the "talker" is back! :o)
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Getting ready to get ready...
Well, I really wanted to get to my blog in Jan. & post so I could get on a roll of posting at least once a month but it didn't happen. Not that I didn't have oodles & oddles of things to say because I do & I know that some of you are very "patiently" waiting for my Christmas miracle post, but I have had a lot of "processing" to do. Now that I have had time to ponder & process, I am ready to write. However, there is something I have to do first before I can write about it here. I plan to do that this week so I am very close to getting ready to get ready to write the post that a lot of you have been waiting for. Thanks so much for being patient! :o)
Monday, December 13, 2010
Chocolate Chip Sweet...
I've had this post in my head for quite some time now...since Sept.20th to be exact...the day after my Grandma's death. For some reason I couldn't bring myself to even sit down to write it for awhile & then the time came that I could do it without it hurting too bad, I was too busy. I'm still busy but I have been convicted by God of not using some of the gifts he gave me so here I am...ready to write.
Everytime I look at a chocolate chip, eat one, or smell them baking in the oven...I think of my Grandma Evelyn. To me, chocolate chips = Grandma :o) If you know me at all, you know that I really "like" chocolate chips & I loved my Grandma dearly.
Some people have Grandma's that are super sweet people & are always kind & loving. My paternal Grandma was like that, but unfortunately she died when I was 9. I call them "sugar cookies." My Grandma Evelyn was definitely not a "sugar cookie" person. She was a "chocolate chip cookie" person. A regular person interspersed with intermittent bursts of sweetness & boldness. She never "sugar coated" anything. What you saw was what you got.
Yes, I am a lot like her. That's one reason why we butted heads a lot...especially as I grew older. But we always either made up or agreed to disagree. Some of my cousins were never blessed with seeing Grandma in "her prime." I am so thankful that I was. In her prime she shined brightly. Hospitality was her "middle name" & grit & determination were her back bone.
My parents divorced when I was 3 & 1/2. My mother & I spent the following 2 & 1/2 years after that living with my Grandparents. I will never forget that time. Although that period was very difficult for my mother for many reasons, it was a very happy time for me. I enjoyed being around my Grandparents & my Uncle Charles. It was like being in a family with 2 mothers, a father, & a big brother. My Grandpa doted on me. My Uncle wrestled with me. And my Grandma constantly hugged me & made me chocolate chip cookies.
Even as I grew older & had moved to a house with my mom, she still made me chocolate chip cookies when I came to visit. Grandma had a strong sense of "mother's intuition" & could always sense when mom & I were in trouble. She would always ask me what was going on because she knew I would tell it to her straight. She helped whenever she could.
I'll never forget the time when Grandma & I went to my mom's house to confront a man who was my mom's husband at the time, about physcially abusing her. I was in the kitchen trying to talk sense into my mom while my 70 year old grandma had backed the man into a corner & was pointing her finger at him & telling him "a thing or two." She had no fear that he could have snapped her into two like a chicken wing. He didn't move until after we left.
As my Grandma grew older & her health declined, her personality changed. It was very hard to see the changes in her. I kept trying to focus on her heart & not her mind. I knew that deep down inside of her, she was still chocolate chip sweet. I will always hold those memories of her in my heart.
Everytime I look at a chocolate chip, eat one, or smell them baking in the oven...I think of my Grandma Evelyn. To me, chocolate chips = Grandma :o) If you know me at all, you know that I really "like" chocolate chips & I loved my Grandma dearly.
Some people have Grandma's that are super sweet people & are always kind & loving. My paternal Grandma was like that, but unfortunately she died when I was 9. I call them "sugar cookies." My Grandma Evelyn was definitely not a "sugar cookie" person. She was a "chocolate chip cookie" person. A regular person interspersed with intermittent bursts of sweetness & boldness. She never "sugar coated" anything. What you saw was what you got.
Yes, I am a lot like her. That's one reason why we butted heads a lot...especially as I grew older. But we always either made up or agreed to disagree. Some of my cousins were never blessed with seeing Grandma in "her prime." I am so thankful that I was. In her prime she shined brightly. Hospitality was her "middle name" & grit & determination were her back bone.
My parents divorced when I was 3 & 1/2. My mother & I spent the following 2 & 1/2 years after that living with my Grandparents. I will never forget that time. Although that period was very difficult for my mother for many reasons, it was a very happy time for me. I enjoyed being around my Grandparents & my Uncle Charles. It was like being in a family with 2 mothers, a father, & a big brother. My Grandpa doted on me. My Uncle wrestled with me. And my Grandma constantly hugged me & made me chocolate chip cookies.
Even as I grew older & had moved to a house with my mom, she still made me chocolate chip cookies when I came to visit. Grandma had a strong sense of "mother's intuition" & could always sense when mom & I were in trouble. She would always ask me what was going on because she knew I would tell it to her straight. She helped whenever she could.
I'll never forget the time when Grandma & I went to my mom's house to confront a man who was my mom's husband at the time, about physcially abusing her. I was in the kitchen trying to talk sense into my mom while my 70 year old grandma had backed the man into a corner & was pointing her finger at him & telling him "a thing or two." She had no fear that he could have snapped her into two like a chicken wing. He didn't move until after we left.
As my Grandma grew older & her health declined, her personality changed. It was very hard to see the changes in her. I kept trying to focus on her heart & not her mind. I knew that deep down inside of her, she was still chocolate chip sweet. I will always hold those memories of her in my heart.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Herd or Heed?
This devotion by Dr. David Jeremiah really spoke to me about what I've been recently very frustrated with. Are we going to follow the "herd" of society even though we know the things they do & stand for are wrong? Or we going to "heed" the call of our Lord & take a "stand" on His Word? Swimming upstream may not be easy but it's better than floating downstream & then drowning in a current.
"The Herd"
"But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly."
Luke 21:34
Recommended Reading
Luke 21:31-38
In his column "Why Economists Missed the Crisis," Barry Ritholz observed that most of the world's financial and political leaders overlooked the warning signs of the current recession. Some saw it coming, and a few on Wall Street sounded the alarm. But, wrote Ritholz, "the vast majority of professional economists, strategists and analysts--the 'Herd'--totally missed it."
It's interesting that Ritholz described them as the Herd. It's easy to be stampeded by our society. Group think takes over; certain opinions form in the popular culture; morality is prescribed by Hollywood ; and our spending habits are influenced by the number of commercials we see.
We can't go with the Herd. The majority of people in this world are missing the warning signs. But as Christians, we march to the beat of a different drummer. We handle our money, our morals, and our ministries as those who know that crises are ahead and that judgment is coming. Jesus told us to stay alert, lest the Day of the Lord come on us unawares. Watch for the signs and take heed.
"There is a choice you have to make in everything you do. So keep in mind that in the end, the choice you make, makes you." John Wooden
"The Herd"
"But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly."
Luke 21:34
Recommended Reading
Luke 21:31-38
In his column "Why Economists Missed the Crisis," Barry Ritholz observed that most of the world's financial and political leaders overlooked the warning signs of the current recession. Some saw it coming, and a few on Wall Street sounded the alarm. But, wrote Ritholz, "the vast majority of professional economists, strategists and analysts--the 'Herd'--totally missed it."
It's interesting that Ritholz described them as the Herd. It's easy to be stampeded by our society. Group think takes over; certain opinions form in the popular culture; morality is prescribed by Hollywood ; and our spending habits are influenced by the number of commercials we see.
We can't go with the Herd. The majority of people in this world are missing the warning signs. But as Christians, we march to the beat of a different drummer. We handle our money, our morals, and our ministries as those who know that crises are ahead and that judgment is coming. Jesus told us to stay alert, lest the Day of the Lord come on us unawares. Watch for the signs and take heed.
"There is a choice you have to make in everything you do. So keep in mind that in the end, the choice you make, makes you." John Wooden
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Grab bag!
Well, it's been almost 2 months since my last blog entry...not because I haven't had anything to say...but rather that we have been going "at the speed of life"...at full speed for the past couple of months. That's not the speed that my family enjoys but we really didn't have much choice. Things are starting to settle down a bit...and we are very thankful for that!
So this is going to be a "catch up" post. Overall we had a pretty good summer. Much more enjoyable & calmer than last summer, which was right after the 3 came home. Of course the summer was harder for Shakira & me because Shakira really thrives at school & without school she's not really sure what to do with herself which of course leads to some undesirable behavior which leads to a grumpy Mama :o)
We made several short trips over the summer & one longer one for our vacation. All of us are doing better with traveling which I am very thankful for!
Our school year started off much better than last year. Phoebe had a very rough start last year & mostly a "bumpy" road all school year. Shakira really struggled at the beginning & then got into a routine that she liked but then was not motivated to do anymore than was required. Samara's progress in preschool last year seemed very slow to her teacher & Caleb was a real challenge for me most of the year.
The start of this school year as been the exact opposite...Thank you God! Phoebe really likes her teacher & has several friends in her class that are a good "fit" for her. She is more focused on learning & doing her best instead of being funny & a socialite. She continues to be a wonderful "older" sister. Phoebe is active in Sunday School, Brownies, TKD, & Upwards Cheerleading.
Shakira was moved from the severe & profound special needs class to the moderate special needs class & the change has been amazing!
She is talking more, & more clearly. She is also being challenged to do things both in the classroom & on field trips that she wasn't in the other class...and she has homework! Yes, I think that's a good thing!
During the end of the summer we got Shakira's "official" diagnoses which are: moderate mental retardation, mixed expressive & receptive language disorder, & ADHD. It's a relief to finally know what her special needs are & to get help with them! She's also wearing her glasses now. Last year we had to take them away from her because she kept breaking them. We got her lens prescription adjusted & now she leaves them alone. Thank you God!
Although Samara's preschool was not convinced that Samara was ready to start kindergarten this year...I was & so she started. She has totally blossomed since starting! She is more confident & very eager to learn. She even uses pencils with erasers on them now...which is something she couldn't do last year because she would constantly erase everything she wrote. She goes half day & is home before lunch. She is a great "big" helper! Samara started Daisies this year as well as Upwards Cheerleading. She is also active in Sunday School & TKD.
Caleb started preschool this fall. He goes three days a week & "loves" it! We get a long much better now that we have some "breaks" from each other :o) He is growing taller every day & of course still has that amazing smile! He's very proud that he knows his ABC's & 1,2,3's. Caleb definitely is all "boy" & enjoys playing with his cousin Isaiah, affectionately known as "Double Trouble" when they are together :o)
Randy is doing well & is very busy at work...which is a good thing :o) I continue to stay busy at home & "not at home" :o) Two weekends ago I completed a Community Health Evangelism (CHE) course which I thoroughly enjoyed. Randy & I continue to pray as we seek the Lord as to what He has planned for us next.
A few of our summer trips were to P-ville to spend time with my Grandma who went into a nursing home at the beginning of July. Her health kept declining & she went home to be with the Lord (and Grandpa & Suzie) on Sunday September 19th...on my mother's 63rd birthday & a week away from her 88th birthday. This past weekend was the kids fall break & we(me & the kids) went back to P-ville to spend time with my Mom. Yesterday was the one month anniversary of my Grandma's death. I got to love on my mom & we had quite a few laughs at good memories of Grandma & Grandpa. We briefly saw Randy's nephew Luke on his birthday...can't believe he's 11! We also got to spend some time with Randy's parents.
We are looking forward to Thanksgiving & Christmas & all that God has in store for us between now & then!
So this is going to be a "catch up" post. Overall we had a pretty good summer. Much more enjoyable & calmer than last summer, which was right after the 3 came home. Of course the summer was harder for Shakira & me because Shakira really thrives at school & without school she's not really sure what to do with herself which of course leads to some undesirable behavior which leads to a grumpy Mama :o)
We made several short trips over the summer & one longer one for our vacation. All of us are doing better with traveling which I am very thankful for!
Our school year started off much better than last year. Phoebe had a very rough start last year & mostly a "bumpy" road all school year. Shakira really struggled at the beginning & then got into a routine that she liked but then was not motivated to do anymore than was required. Samara's progress in preschool last year seemed very slow to her teacher & Caleb was a real challenge for me most of the year.
The start of this school year as been the exact opposite...Thank you God! Phoebe really likes her teacher & has several friends in her class that are a good "fit" for her. She is more focused on learning & doing her best instead of being funny & a socialite. She continues to be a wonderful "older" sister. Phoebe is active in Sunday School, Brownies, TKD, & Upwards Cheerleading.
Shakira was moved from the severe & profound special needs class to the moderate special needs class & the change has been amazing!
She is talking more, & more clearly. She is also being challenged to do things both in the classroom & on field trips that she wasn't in the other class...and she has homework! Yes, I think that's a good thing!
During the end of the summer we got Shakira's "official" diagnoses which are: moderate mental retardation, mixed expressive & receptive language disorder, & ADHD. It's a relief to finally know what her special needs are & to get help with them! She's also wearing her glasses now. Last year we had to take them away from her because she kept breaking them. We got her lens prescription adjusted & now she leaves them alone. Thank you God!
Although Samara's preschool was not convinced that Samara was ready to start kindergarten this year...I was & so she started. She has totally blossomed since starting! She is more confident & very eager to learn. She even uses pencils with erasers on them now...which is something she couldn't do last year because she would constantly erase everything she wrote. She goes half day & is home before lunch. She is a great "big" helper! Samara started Daisies this year as well as Upwards Cheerleading. She is also active in Sunday School & TKD.
Caleb started preschool this fall. He goes three days a week & "loves" it! We get a long much better now that we have some "breaks" from each other :o) He is growing taller every day & of course still has that amazing smile! He's very proud that he knows his ABC's & 1,2,3's. Caleb definitely is all "boy" & enjoys playing with his cousin Isaiah, affectionately known as "Double Trouble" when they are together :o)
Randy is doing well & is very busy at work...which is a good thing :o) I continue to stay busy at home & "not at home" :o) Two weekends ago I completed a Community Health Evangelism (CHE) course which I thoroughly enjoyed. Randy & I continue to pray as we seek the Lord as to what He has planned for us next.
A few of our summer trips were to P-ville to spend time with my Grandma who went into a nursing home at the beginning of July. Her health kept declining & she went home to be with the Lord (and Grandpa & Suzie) on Sunday September 19th...on my mother's 63rd birthday & a week away from her 88th birthday. This past weekend was the kids fall break & we(me & the kids) went back to P-ville to spend time with my Mom. Yesterday was the one month anniversary of my Grandma's death. I got to love on my mom & we had quite a few laughs at good memories of Grandma & Grandpa. We briefly saw Randy's nephew Luke on his birthday...can't believe he's 11! We also got to spend some time with Randy's parents.
We are looking forward to Thanksgiving & Christmas & all that God has in store for us between now & then!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
"When Your World Shakes"
From 8/31 Turning Point by Dr. David Jeremiah
"God is...a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed."
Psalm 46:1-2
Recommended Reading
Isaiah 41:10-13
At first they couldn't believe it. Fifteen days after Haiti 's devastating earthquake, workers found a miracle survivor. Darline Etienne, 16, was pulled from the rubble barely breathing and hardly able to speak. She'd apparently been alone in the house taking a shower when the quake struck. The house collapsed on her, but since she was in the bathroom, she had access to water. That's what saved her life. As she was pulled from the ruins, she weakly asked for her mother. She was immediately given food, medical care, and loving assurance.
Just as an earthquake victim eagerly accepts rescue and the provisions of food and clothing, we should look to the Lord for all we need. The psalmist said, "Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their masters, as the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the LORD our God, until He has mercy on us" (Psalm 123:2).
God provides one blessing after another, and His reserves are never diminished. Trust Him to rescue and provide for you today.
"In the presence of Jesus there is sheer thrilling effervescence in life. A gloom-encompassed Christianity is an impossibility." William Barclay
You may have not ever been in an earthquake before but it's pretty safe to say that most of us have been "shaken" to the core by something in our lives. Usually there are two types of responses to this shakening: run to someone or something or run away from someone or something. Most of the time, running away is not the best solution. So who are you going to run to? Are you going to run to the God of the universe who knows how many hairs are on your head or are you going to run to other people or to the things of this world? I pray that today you will choose to run to God. Run into his arms & feel His presence, peace, comfort, & joy.
"God is...a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed."
Psalm 46:1-2
Recommended Reading
Isaiah 41:10-13
At first they couldn't believe it. Fifteen days after Haiti 's devastating earthquake, workers found a miracle survivor. Darline Etienne, 16, was pulled from the rubble barely breathing and hardly able to speak. She'd apparently been alone in the house taking a shower when the quake struck. The house collapsed on her, but since she was in the bathroom, she had access to water. That's what saved her life. As she was pulled from the ruins, she weakly asked for her mother. She was immediately given food, medical care, and loving assurance.
Just as an earthquake victim eagerly accepts rescue and the provisions of food and clothing, we should look to the Lord for all we need. The psalmist said, "Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their masters, as the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the LORD our God, until He has mercy on us" (Psalm 123:2).
God provides one blessing after another, and His reserves are never diminished. Trust Him to rescue and provide for you today.
"In the presence of Jesus there is sheer thrilling effervescence in life. A gloom-encompassed Christianity is an impossibility." William Barclay
You may have not ever been in an earthquake before but it's pretty safe to say that most of us have been "shaken" to the core by something in our lives. Usually there are two types of responses to this shakening: run to someone or something or run away from someone or something. Most of the time, running away is not the best solution. So who are you going to run to? Are you going to run to the God of the universe who knows how many hairs are on your head or are you going to run to other people or to the things of this world? I pray that today you will choose to run to God. Run into his arms & feel His presence, peace, comfort, & joy.
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