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September
18 Little Interruptions by Barbara Rainey Make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Philippians 2:2 As moms, we get to deal with such exciting things as spit up, poopy pull-ups, and frogs and lizards escaping in the house. So how do you balance all of that with the desire to be an attractive, romantic, interesting wife? One key is to remember that your children are third on your list of priorities. They cannot be more important to you than their father and certainly not more important than your heavenly Father. A wise woman said to me years ago, “Honey, one child will take all your time, two children will take all your time and so will three. It doesn’t matter how many children you have; they will take all your time.” And she’s right . . . if you let them. It’s up to you whether or not you save at least some of your energy, time and attention for your husband. When you pay attention to your husband, children begin to see that their needs and desires don’t have to be met immediately. They learn patience when they have to wait for you to finish your tasks, your conversation . . . or your kiss! A healthy marriage creates security in their hearts and minds. Plus they can learn responsibility and greater independence when you and your husband leave them (well supervised, of course) to go on a date or a weekend away. They need an occasional break from you, just like you do from them! Yes, children are often little interruptions, but keeping your husband a higher priority is the first step in balancing the roles of wife and mother. Discuss Perhaps this sounds very freeing for you. Or perhaps it sounds selfish and unkind. Talk about how you feel about putting limits on the time you spend with your children so that you can spend time with each other. Discuss a regular time each week when you can have a date night together. Pray Ask God for the wisdom to set aside time for one another to invest in your marriage relationship. **THIS WAS AN EMAIL FROM 'MOMENTS WITH YOU' CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE FOR THESE MARRIAGE DEVOS** |
Showing posts with label Devotional. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Devotional. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Little Interruptions
Friday, April 13, 2012
Devo
This is something the Lord has continually put in my readings and in my path over the past month or so. Of course, wanted to share incase you needed a reminder that it is He you hear a-knockin' ;0
Happy Friday all!!
"I was a stranger and you invited me in ..." Matthew 25:35 (NIV 1984)
After five years of living in our house, my husband finally agreed we needed curtains on the windows. Not to block the view, but to enhance it. (That is a breakthrough, right there.)
Deciding on just the right thing, at just the right sale price, was a challenge. In the span of a week I put up rods, ironed drapes, switched them out and took them down. The gals in the drapery department at the local store knew me by my first name.
The last place I planned to be was at the mall, exchanging curtains, on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. But there I was, ringing out at the register.
And there she was, Vivian. She breathlessly approached the counter asking to use the phone. It seemed this young girl had been dropped off to go to work and discovered she wasn't scheduled. She needed to find someone to pick her up.
That's when I felt a familiar knock on my heart. Actually, it was pounding pretty good. I knew when I felt that it meant God had an interruption planned.
"Do you need a ride?" I asked. All activity stopped. She looked at me quizzically. The cashier waited to see what would happen next. Vivian cocked her head to the side in disbelief and replied, "Uh, yes."
"I'm leaving; I'll take you," came out of my mouth.
Can I just say that was not on my agenda? My list was probably like yours, a mile long with things that needed to be done before the end of the day. But the truths of Matthew 25 resonated within me. I knew God asked me to be on the lookout for strangers to invite in: into my home, into my church and it appeared, into my routine.
I discovered a little bit about my new friend during our ride. She has seven siblings. Because of her mom's drug abuse, five were adopted out of the family six years ago, leaving just her and her brother. No one wants 13 and 14 year olds she explained. Her decisions thereafter took her down some wrong roads.
We talked about church and she said she'd been a few times, but didn't go now.
"Vivian, God put us together on purpose today. He has a plan for your life. You didn't expect to run into me and I didn't expect to run into you, yet here we are. Unusual, don't you think?"
She agreed. "Yes. In today's world, no one takes a chance on anyone. I couldn't believe you offered me a ride."
I asked about her past and her hopes for the future. In twenty minutes we bonded. "Are you working Sunday?" I asked.
"No, I'm off," she replied.
"I'll pick you up for church if you want to go with us." She said she thought that would be great!
I got out of the car and wrapped her in a hug. Then I prayed over her as we stood amazed at how quickly we'd connected.
Looking back, I'm thankful for interruptions; some of the most memorable moments have been unexpected. God wants to interrupt us for His purposes, inviting Him and others into our lives in unexpected ways.
Dear Lord, please open my heart, my eyes, and my routine to Your divine interruptions. May it be said of me, I'm a woman who invited You in. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Visit Luann's blog and listen to her Encouragement Café radio show for loads of fun and spiritual application for real life!
Will you pray about inviting a Compassion International child into your heart?
Reflect and Respond:
"The ultimate rich man, Jesus Christ, became poor for you. That means that we ought to be deeply involved in the lives of broken people in this city. And it means not just giving your charity, giving your money, though that's very important. But it means giving your time, giving your relationship ..." ~Tim Keller
Look for ways God is interrupting you today. Who can you 'invite in'?
Power Verses:
Proverbs 16:9, "The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps." (ESV)
Matthew 25:35-40, "For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.' Then the righteous will answer him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?' And the King will answer them, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.'" (ESV)
Happy Friday all!!
 |
April
13, 2012 Interrupt Me Luann Prater |
"I was a stranger and you invited me in ..." Matthew 25:35 (NIV 1984)
After five years of living in our house, my husband finally agreed we needed curtains on the windows. Not to block the view, but to enhance it. (That is a breakthrough, right there.)
Deciding on just the right thing, at just the right sale price, was a challenge. In the span of a week I put up rods, ironed drapes, switched them out and took them down. The gals in the drapery department at the local store knew me by my first name.
The last place I planned to be was at the mall, exchanging curtains, on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. But there I was, ringing out at the register.
And there she was, Vivian. She breathlessly approached the counter asking to use the phone. It seemed this young girl had been dropped off to go to work and discovered she wasn't scheduled. She needed to find someone to pick her up.
That's when I felt a familiar knock on my heart. Actually, it was pounding pretty good. I knew when I felt that it meant God had an interruption planned.
"Do you need a ride?" I asked. All activity stopped. She looked at me quizzically. The cashier waited to see what would happen next. Vivian cocked her head to the side in disbelief and replied, "Uh, yes."
"I'm leaving; I'll take you," came out of my mouth.
Can I just say that was not on my agenda? My list was probably like yours, a mile long with things that needed to be done before the end of the day. But the truths of Matthew 25 resonated within me. I knew God asked me to be on the lookout for strangers to invite in: into my home, into my church and it appeared, into my routine.
I discovered a little bit about my new friend during our ride. She has seven siblings. Because of her mom's drug abuse, five were adopted out of the family six years ago, leaving just her and her brother. No one wants 13 and 14 year olds she explained. Her decisions thereafter took her down some wrong roads.
We talked about church and she said she'd been a few times, but didn't go now.
"Vivian, God put us together on purpose today. He has a plan for your life. You didn't expect to run into me and I didn't expect to run into you, yet here we are. Unusual, don't you think?"
She agreed. "Yes. In today's world, no one takes a chance on anyone. I couldn't believe you offered me a ride."
I asked about her past and her hopes for the future. In twenty minutes we bonded. "Are you working Sunday?" I asked.
"No, I'm off," she replied.
"I'll pick you up for church if you want to go with us." She said she thought that would be great!
I got out of the car and wrapped her in a hug. Then I prayed over her as we stood amazed at how quickly we'd connected.
Looking back, I'm thankful for interruptions; some of the most memorable moments have been unexpected. God wants to interrupt us for His purposes, inviting Him and others into our lives in unexpected ways.
Dear Lord, please open my heart, my eyes, and my routine to Your divine interruptions. May it be said of me, I'm a woman who invited You in. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Visit Luann's blog and listen to her Encouragement Café radio show for loads of fun and spiritual application for real life!
Will you pray about inviting a Compassion International child into your heart?
Reflect and Respond:
"The ultimate rich man, Jesus Christ, became poor for you. That means that we ought to be deeply involved in the lives of broken people in this city. And it means not just giving your charity, giving your money, though that's very important. But it means giving your time, giving your relationship ..." ~Tim Keller
Look for ways God is interrupting you today. Who can you 'invite in'?
Power Verses:
Proverbs 16:9, "The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps." (ESV)
Matthew 25:35-40, "For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.' Then the righteous will answer him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?' And the King will answer them, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.'" (ESV)
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Girlfriends in God - Good read today!
Hello all....yes, still working on my current project. Even more need to hurry it up and finish is that 1. I still need to do bday thank you's from my party a week ago...and 2. I just had a request to design a 75th bday party invite ;0 SO...yeah
Read this wonderful devo just now and HAD TO SHARE!
Read here:
Today’s Truth
A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of (Luke 6:45, NIV)
A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of (Luke 6:45, NIV)
Friend to Friend
What is really inside will come spilling out for all to see when life puts the squeeze on us. My Mama used to say “What’s down in the well comes up in the bucket.” In other words, a crisis will usually reveal what is really in our hearts. It is easy to do and say the right things when life is calm and everything is going right, but what we say and do when chaos hits and the pressure is on tends to paint a more accurate picture of who we really are. It is kind of like sponge theology.
What is really inside will come spilling out for all to see when life puts the squeeze on us. My Mama used to say “What’s down in the well comes up in the bucket.” In other words, a crisis will usually reveal what is really in our hearts. It is easy to do and say the right things when life is calm and everything is going right, but what we say and do when chaos hits and the pressure is on tends to paint a more accurate picture of who we really are. It is kind of like sponge theology.
Suppose you have five sponges lying on your kitchen counter. Each member of your family has been cleaning different areas of your home, but the sponges all look the same. You are curious about what was cleaned but you can’t tell just by looking at the sponges since they all look the same. So what do you do?
You squeeze each sponge to see what happens. As you squeeze the first sponge, brown cola comes pouring out. Someone must have cleaned the kitchen with that sponge. Upon squeezing the second sponge, you see blue tub and tile cleaner oozing out of the sponge which leads you to believe someone used that particular sponge to clean the bathroom. In the third sponge, you find motor oil and conclude your husband was using that sponge to clean the garage. The fourth sponge produces a puff of baby powder when it is squeezed. The baby’s nursery was obviously cleaned with that sponge. Finally, the last sponge is dripping with floor wax which tells you someone used that particular sponge to clean the hall floor. As you lay the last sponge down, you look again at their similarity. They all look the same -- until they are squeezed.
We are a lot like sponges when it comes to our faith in God. We look and act as if God is Lord of our lives. We say all the right things to all the right people and do right things in order to prove we are right. But what is really inside? What do our hearts really look like?
When a crisis comes and the pressures of life squeeze us mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually, what comes out? Do we respond to that difficult person in anger or with patience and love? Does revenge spill out in ugly words to that person who has hurt us more times than we can count or do we take a breath and remember that God loves them and that hurt people tend to hurt people? Does the pain of unresolved sin flood our hearts and minds as guilt spills out of our heart with a vengeance?
Just like the sponge, we can only squeeze out what is put in. Fill your heart with the things of God. Stay in the Word each day. Spend time with faith builders who will encourage you in your faith. Seek God and His plan for your life. Pray about everything so that when life puts the squeeze on you – and it will – the very nature of God will come pouring out.
Let’s Pray
Father, I want my faith to be more than just talk. I want it to be real and authentic, flowing from a heart set on You. Forgive me when I play religious games and pretend to be someone I am not. I am a sinner saved by Your grace. Teach me how to walk in that grace so that when the hard times come and the pressure is on, You come pouring out of my life.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Father, I want my faith to be more than just talk. I want it to be real and authentic, flowing from a heart set on You. Forgive me when I play religious games and pretend to be someone I am not. I am a sinner saved by Your grace. Teach me how to walk in that grace so that when the hard times come and the pressure is on, You come pouring out of my life.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Now It’s Your Turn
Think back to the last time you were surprised by your reaction to a situation or a person. What does that tell you about the condition of your heart? Set aside time to spend alone with God. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any sin that needs to be faced and confessed. Give Him permission to purify your heart so that no matter what life throws at you, God will be honored by how you respond.
Think back to the last time you were surprised by your reaction to a situation or a person. What does that tell you about the condition of your heart? Set aside time to spend alone with God. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any sin that needs to be faced and confessed. Give Him permission to purify your heart so that no matter what life throws at you, God will be honored by how you respond.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Isaiah 59:9-15
Here's an exercise from this AM's devo...
Isaiah 59:9-15
9-11Which means thatwe're I'M a far cry from fair dealing,
Isaiah 59:9-15
9-11Which means that
and we're I'M not even close to right living.
We I long for light but sink into darkness,
long for brightness but stumble through the night.
Like the blind,we I inch along a wall,
groping eyeless in the dark.
We I shuffle our way in broad daylight,
like the dead, but somehow walking.
We're I'M no better off than bears, groaning,
and no worse off than doves, moaning.
We I look for justice—not a sign of it;
for salvation—not so much as a hint.
long for brightness but stumble through the night.
Like the blind,
groping eyeless in the dark.
like the dead, but somehow walking.
and no worse off than doves, moaning.
for salvation—not so much as a hint.
12-15Our MY wrongdoings pile up before you, God,
our MY sins stand up and accuse us ME.
Our MY wrongdoings stare us ME down;
we I know in detail what we've I'VE done:
Mocking and denying God,
not following our God,
Spreading false rumors, inciting sedition,
pregnant with lies, muttering malice.
Justice is beaten back,
Righteousness is banished to the sidelines,
Truth staggers down the street,
Honesty is nowhere to be found,
Good is missing in action.
Anyone renouncing evil is beaten and robbed.
Mocking and denying God,
not following our God,
Spreading false rumors, inciting sedition,
pregnant with lies, muttering malice.
Justice is beaten back,
Righteousness is banished to the sidelines,
Truth staggers down the street,
Honesty is nowhere to be found,
Good is missing in action.
Anyone renouncing evil is beaten and robbed.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Exhaling...
Hello! I know some of you are looking for pics from our trip, and they are coming! It's taken me a bit to get them all uploaded. Next step is to begin to insert them in to the post, and getting them all organized in posts. So I will not bombard you with a million pics. That would actually cause me to be silent for a while then because I don't think we've taken any pics since we've been back :0
There has been so much going on in me and I've been, of course, wanting to share each part of it. This morning I have a little extra time (I think;0) before Emma wakes up, so thought I'd hop on in hopes to get this thought out!
The Lord has just been so 'loud and clear' to me lately, and I love it. So much affirmation and confirmation that I didn't realize I was in need of. So much so, that I pray I do not jump around too much and ramble and just focus on this am's powerful words!
The devotional I'm reading is The Message//Remix: Solo. It has a daily 'expanded passage' to assist in putting the verses in context, and I read them out of my NIV. Today's EP: Isaiah 48-50, and verses focused on were 49:13-18 (in case you'd like to read for yourself;0).
Of that passage, it focused on being forgotten - thinking back to times when you were intentionally or unintentionally (like when you were little and your mom was caught up shopping at the mall) forgotten. Man did it bring a ton of thoughts to my mind of times I've recently felt forgotten...and by 'recently', I am referring to the past few years of life.
(see...this girl has a ton she's trying to work out!)
Intentional or unintentional? Who knows. I am such an over-processer. I've spent so much time pondering each and have yet to come up with any answers (duh, did I really think I could figure it out?!). The Lord has been giving me opportunities lately to show me more about myself through these types of things. This morning, He just gave me so much peace and wrapped it all up for me with this devo. The Lord will never forget us.
He loves us more than any love we can seek from any human being on this earth. And why shouldn't he? He created us. He knew every fiber about us before we were conceived. He has chosen us and labeled us as His children. He has glorious plans for us, as we walk as His disciples on this earth; better than we could have ever possibly fathomed for ourselves. He's with us no matter where we are. And my current go to verse:
I have had the opportunity to catch up with friends and family lately that are in my same boats of things we are going through. Thought that, if this was such an encouragement to me this morning, it just may make someone else smile too...and relax in the loving arms of the Lord ;0
There has been so much going on in me and I've been, of course, wanting to share each part of it. This morning I have a little extra time (I think;0) before Emma wakes up, so thought I'd hop on in hopes to get this thought out!
The Lord has just been so 'loud and clear' to me lately, and I love it. So much affirmation and confirmation that I didn't realize I was in need of. So much so, that I pray I do not jump around too much and ramble and just focus on this am's powerful words!
The devotional I'm reading is The Message//Remix: Solo. It has a daily 'expanded passage' to assist in putting the verses in context, and I read them out of my NIV. Today's EP: Isaiah 48-50, and verses focused on were 49:13-18 (in case you'd like to read for yourself;0).
Of that passage, it focused on being forgotten - thinking back to times when you were intentionally or unintentionally (like when you were little and your mom was caught up shopping at the mall) forgotten. Man did it bring a ton of thoughts to my mind of times I've recently felt forgotten...and by 'recently', I am referring to the past few years of life.
- before children: when friends were having kids and invites/calls/emails/time together went a way
- leaving work: waiting to get calls/texts/emails from 'friends' and co-workers. hoping to just hear them say they were thinking of me
- reaching out: 'trying' to get together with friends, but it never working out, no responses from texts/emails/calls
(see...this girl has a ton she's trying to work out!)
Intentional or unintentional? Who knows. I am such an over-processer. I've spent so much time pondering each and have yet to come up with any answers (duh, did I really think I could figure it out?!). The Lord has been giving me opportunities lately to show me more about myself through these types of things. This morning, He just gave me so much peace and wrapped it all up for me with this devo. The Lord will never forget us.
"Look, I've written your names on the backs of my hands."
Isaiah 49:16
Isaiah 49:16
He loves us more than any love we can seek from any human being on this earth. And why shouldn't he? He created us. He knew every fiber about us before we were conceived. He has chosen us and labeled us as His children. He has glorious plans for us, as we walk as His disciples on this earth; better than we could have ever possibly fathomed for ourselves. He's with us no matter where we are. And my current go to verse:
When you’re in over your head, I’ll be there with you.
When you’re in rough waters, you will not go down
When you’re between a rock and a hard place
it won’t be a dead end –
it won’t be a dead end –
Because I am God, your personal God
Isaiah 43:2,3 (MSG)
I have had the opportunity to catch up with friends and family lately that are in my same boats of things we are going through. Thought that, if this was such an encouragement to me this morning, it just may make someone else smile too...and relax in the loving arms of the Lord ;0
Thursday, November 10, 2011
women of virtue - cathe laurie
I so needed this today, so of course had to share. I haven't been spending much time on the computer lately, or reading through EVERY email either (i subscribe to a lot of things ;0). Today, I saw this title and was like, OK CLICK PLEASE! It really ministered to me right now as some of you know that my hubby's basically working two jobs for a few months. It wasn't easy to begin with and it's getting more and more difficult. We are approaching the 2 most difficult months of this time (and would very much appreciate your prayers for us!) and I'm just breaking down at the smallest thing, it feels like. Not a complete bawling session, but 180 in attitude/mood change. I know that part is only adding to the difficulty Tyler's already experiencing...I try to pray myself out of it as quickly as I can, but my stubbornness (I guess) attaches itself to said mood:(...ANYWAY...unload?! :) That's where I am today. Hope you enjoyed!! And do read on, I hope I didn't ramble too much and change your mind!!
how to be thankful in times of perplexity
how to be thankful in times of perplexity
November 10th, 2011 | Posted by Cathe Laurie
In everything give thanks… We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair…
This will be a tough Thanksgiving holiday for the Huseman family. There will be two empty places at the table. Somewhere in the desert, near Lake Dolores, Rick and Jeff’s plane crashed. In that moment, they took their last breath on earth, their first breath in heaven. In those final heartbreaking moments, they took turns talking and praying with their mother… and then came a deafening silence on the other end. I can’t imagine this mother’s heartbreak.
We want to know: How is it possible to be thankful and praise God for the things we cannot comprehend? The psalmists show us the way.
The Book of Psalms gives us the permission to ask why, how, when. In one psalm, David cries out, “Wake up God; why are you sleeping?” I love the honesty, the rawness of his prayer. He didn’t tidy it up to impress us. He bares his soul so freely, confident his God will understand. We are in good company; there are many others in Scripture who knew “tears as their food day and night.” After all, the Lord Jesus Christ Himself called from His cross, “My God, My God, why?”
I read in Psalm 42, couched in the midst of the cries and questions, of a tremendous strength. One moment the psalmist pours out his soul to God, and the next he preaches to himself.
“Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God” (Psalm 42:11 NIV).
I will yet praise him! These are the final verses in the psalm. There was no quick fix, no answer on the horizon; his condition hadn’t changed. But despite his bewilderment, he determines to praise his Savior and God.
Is this some form of holy schizophrenia? Perhaps, but I assure you God is in favor to this kind of “self talk.” We must learn how preach to our hearts in tough times. Try this prescription: instead of running to the pastor, the counselor, your best friend, or the bottle of anti-depressants, talk to yourself.
Greg, when being hit with thoughts of doubt, has used these words: “Greg, shut up!” Strong words I know, but whatever words you choose, you must urge yourself strongly to do more than rehearse your painful situation. Command your heart into obedience, and put your hope in God, who is worthy of our praise.
Maybe with broken hearts, tear-stained faces, and voices hoarse from crying, we can rise above our circumstances and offer thanks, a sacrifice of praise. Because, either we believe God is good and is in control, or we had better quit the charade, pack our bags, and call it a day. Instead, I pray you will join me and many others who continue to believe and give thanks, in spite of how we feel and what we face.
As Nancy Leigh DeMoss writes, “The grateful heart that springs forth in joy is not acquired in a moment; it is the fruit of a thousand choices.”
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Shadows...good one
 | August 31, 2011 Living Beyond the Shadow of My Doubts Renee Swope |
"You are a chosen [woman], a royal [priest], a holy [daughter], God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light." 1 Peter 2:9 (NIV)
I stood in front of my bathroom mirror getting ready for a large event while begging God to zap me with confidence, or send Jesus back before it was time for me to speak. I had been struggling with paralyzing self-doubt that week, and it was making me question everything.
Although I was honored when the event leader called months before, now I questioned why I'd accepted the invitation. And my internal dialogue was relentless...What if I forget what I'm going to say? What if my points aren't that powerful? What if they don't connect with my stories or laugh at my humor? What if...?
When I turned around to put something in my suitcase behind me, I noticed a huge nine-foot shadow on the wall. I was surprised how big the shadow was and how much it distorted the image of my five-foot, two-inch frame.
All of a sudden, I realized my uncertainty had also created a huge shadow—a shadow of doubt. It was distorting my thoughts and overpowering my emotions.
As I stood there looking at the humongous shadow, I sensed God whispering to my heart: Renee, you can only see the shadow because you have turned away from the light. Turn back toward the light.
Slowly I turned back toward the lights above the mirror, and realized I was no longer standing in the shadow. And, I also realized I had created the shadow by blocking the light.
Shadows are created all around us when something blocks light. And so it is with the shadow of doubt. When we focus on ourselves and how inadequate we feel, or what others are thinking about us, we cast a shadow of doubt in our minds and block the light of God's Truth in our hearts.
Yet, we were not designed to block the light or to be the light.
We were created to live in the Light, by focusing on what God thinks about us instead. I love how John the Baptist is described as "a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light." (John 1:7-8, NIV)
The same is true for us. Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (John 8:12b, NIV) When we follow Jesus closely in our thoughts, we find our confidence in Him.
As we shift the focus from our feelings of inadequacy to His promises of all-sufficiency, we can exchange our lack of self-confidence with lasting God-confidence. And in doing so, our lives become a witness, testifying of the One who called us out of darkness into His wonderful light (1 Peter 2:9, NIV).
Are you ready to become a more Jesus-dependent, God-confident woman whose assurance is found in Him alone? If so, when you find yourself standing in the shadow of self-doubt, instead of wishing for more self-confidence, pray for lasting God-confidence! Then turn towards the Light so your heart can focus on and live in the security of His promises:
• When you feel inadequate, remember God says: You are CHOSEN.
"'You are my witnesses,' declares the Lord, 'and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he.'" (Isa. 43:10a, NIV)
• When you feel unable or unstable, God says: You are ABLE.
"The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights." (Hab. 3:19, NIV)
• When you feel unworthy, remember God says: You are LOVED.
"You are precious and honored in my sight, and...I love you." (Isa. 43:4a, NIV)
Lord, Your Word says I am a chosen woman, a royal priest, a holy daughter, a woman belonging to You. Help me remember that You have called me out of the shadows of my doubts to tell others about the Light and hope I've found in You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Application Steps:
What are your most common thoughts of self-doubt and how do they make you feel? (inadequate, uncertain, indecisive, etc.) Click here for a list of powerful promises to replace them.
Reflections:
"When we focus our attention on ourselves, we turn our attention away from God. We leave no room in our thoughts to listen to what God is thinking about us, because we have given that place away to be occupied by other people's opinions." — from A Confident Heart
Power Verses:
Luke 24:38, "Why are you frightened?" [Jesus] asked. "Why are your hearts filled with doubt?" (NLT)
Romans 8:6, "The mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace." (NASB)
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Slow Down and Inquire
Just finished a some devo time and the topic today was to slow down and inquire, coming from Joshua 9. This has probably been one of my most repeated lessons (thank you, Lord, for your endless patience with me ;0) since last year Mayish.
I thought it was funny to reflect on all my projects/commitments or as the devo called them 'attachments' that I've got going on. Only one of which I sat and prayerfully considered. The rest I felt like I had to say yes to. Yet, here I am, feeling like I can't catch a break because I have too many projects lined up ahead as I'm coming off of Emma's birthday party extravaganza ;0 Ok...wasn't an extravaganza, but the first time I'd done a solo event in a while!
So nice to know that I can still pray about all these 'attachments' now, and if I must turn something down, the Lord will guide me to it and the person I have to turn down and it'll be all good :)
What's on your to-do or project list? or is there a relationship you're 'attached' to that perhaps the Lord would like for you to inquire with Him over before continuing?
Stay tuned for updates on pics from July events, as well as Emma's bday party! This week, I'm focused on finishing up my cousin's wedding invites (the one project I prayed over and accepted gladly;0). As soon as I turn those over to he and his lovely bride-to-be, I'll have a little time for picture posting.
I thought it was funny to reflect on all my projects/commitments or as the devo called them 'attachments' that I've got going on. Only one of which I sat and prayerfully considered. The rest I felt like I had to say yes to. Yet, here I am, feeling like I can't catch a break because I have too many projects lined up ahead as I'm coming off of Emma's birthday party extravaganza ;0 Ok...wasn't an extravaganza, but the first time I'd done a solo event in a while!
So nice to know that I can still pray about all these 'attachments' now, and if I must turn something down, the Lord will guide me to it and the person I have to turn down and it'll be all good :)
What's on your to-do or project list? or is there a relationship you're 'attached' to that perhaps the Lord would like for you to inquire with Him over before continuing?
Stay tuned for updates on pics from July events, as well as Emma's bday party! This week, I'm focused on finishing up my cousin's wedding invites (the one project I prayed over and accepted gladly;0). As soon as I turn those over to he and his lovely bride-to-be, I'll have a little time for picture posting.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Thump, eh?
After having a (what is seaming to be) 'regular Thursday breakdown', it was nice to read this just now. Well. Gives good perspective. Read on...will leave my comments for the end.
Week of July 22
Thump-Thud, Thump-Thud
When a potter bakes a pot, he checks its solidity by pulling it out of the oven and thumping it. If it “sings,” it’s ready. If it “thuds,” it’s placed back in the oven.
The character of a person is also checked by thumping. Been thumped lately?
Late-night phone calls. Grouchy teacher. Grumpy moms. Burnt meals. Flat tires. You’ve-got-to-be-kidding deadlines. Those are thumps. Thumps are those irritating inconveniences that trigger the worst in us. They catch us off guard. Flat-footed. They aren’t big enough to be crises, but if you get enough of them, watch out! Traffic jams. Long lines. Empty mailboxes. Dirty clothes on the floor. Even as I write this, I’m being thumped. Because of interruptions, it has taken me almost two hours to write these two paragraphs. Thump. Thump. Thump.
How do I respond? Do I sing? Or do I thud?
Jesus said that out of the nature of the heart a man speaks (Luke 6:45). There’s nothing like a good thump to reveal the nature of a heart. The true character of a person is seen not in momentary heroics but in the thump-packed humdrum of day-to-day living.
If you have a tendency to thud more than you sing, take heart.
The true character of a person is seen not in momentary heroics but in the thump-packed humdrum of day-to day living.
There is hope for us “thudders”:
1. Begin by thanking God for thumps. I don’t mean a half-hearted thank-you. I mean a rejoicing, jumping-for-joy thank-you from the bottom of your heart (James 1:2). Chances are that God is doing the thumping. And he’s doing it for your own good. So every thump is a reminder that God is molding you (Heb. 12:5–8).
2. Learn from each thump. Face up to the fact that you are not “thump-proof.” You are going to be tested from now on. You might as well learn from the thumps—you can’t avoid them. Look upon each inconvenience as an opportunity to develop patience and persistence. Each thump will help you or hurt you, depending on how you use it.
3. Be aware of “thump-slump” times. Know your pressure periods. For me Mondays are infamous for causing thump-slumps. Fridays can be just as bad. For all of us, there are times during the week when we can anticipate an unusual amount of thumping. The best way to handle thump-slump times? Head on. Bolster yourself with extra prayer, and don’t give up.
Remember, no thump is disastrous. All thumps work for good if we are loving and obeying God.
Now you know how you can pray for me! And I'd much appreciate it:)
Week of July 22
Thump-Thud, Thump-Thud
When a potter bakes a pot, he checks its solidity by pulling it out of the oven and thumping it. If it “sings,” it’s ready. If it “thuds,” it’s placed back in the oven.
The character of a person is also checked by thumping. Been thumped lately?
Late-night phone calls. Grouchy teacher. Grumpy moms. Burnt meals. Flat tires. You’ve-got-to-be-kidding deadlines. Those are thumps. Thumps are those irritating inconveniences that trigger the worst in us. They catch us off guard. Flat-footed. They aren’t big enough to be crises, but if you get enough of them, watch out! Traffic jams. Long lines. Empty mailboxes. Dirty clothes on the floor. Even as I write this, I’m being thumped. Because of interruptions, it has taken me almost two hours to write these two paragraphs. Thump. Thump. Thump.
How do I respond? Do I sing? Or do I thud?
Jesus said that out of the nature of the heart a man speaks (Luke 6:45). There’s nothing like a good thump to reveal the nature of a heart. The true character of a person is seen not in momentary heroics but in the thump-packed humdrum of day-to-day living.
If you have a tendency to thud more than you sing, take heart.
The true character of a person is seen not in momentary heroics but in the thump-packed humdrum of day-to day living.
There is hope for us “thudders”:
1. Begin by thanking God for thumps. I don’t mean a half-hearted thank-you. I mean a rejoicing, jumping-for-joy thank-you from the bottom of your heart (James 1:2). Chances are that God is doing the thumping. And he’s doing it for your own good. So every thump is a reminder that God is molding you (Heb. 12:5–8).
2. Learn from each thump. Face up to the fact that you are not “thump-proof.” You are going to be tested from now on. You might as well learn from the thumps—you can’t avoid them. Look upon each inconvenience as an opportunity to develop patience and persistence. Each thump will help you or hurt you, depending on how you use it.
3. Be aware of “thump-slump” times. Know your pressure periods. For me Mondays are infamous for causing thump-slumps. Fridays can be just as bad. For all of us, there are times during the week when we can anticipate an unusual amount of thumping. The best way to handle thump-slump times? Head on. Bolster yourself with extra prayer, and don’t give up.
Remember, no thump is disastrous. All thumps work for good if we are loving and obeying God.
So, I'm definitely NOT a singer, but a 'thudder'. No fun. Praise God the meltdowns haven't been weekly. However, when they come, the day of the week they land on is ALWAYS on a Thursday. Usually the night we meet for life group, which leaves me fighting going all day long even through our 30 minute drive.
It was nice, though. After reading #1 above, I stopped and prayed, oh and praised a little too :) Thinking that the Lord may be trying to teach me patience...and possibly not to just try to 'get through' whatever period - which is what I usually do. See, with Tyler working evenings and lately working late at the office, it leaves us little time together not even just to hang out, but talk, discuss and decide things...needed connections, not just the desire to have an hour of quality time with hubby. I pray for patience, a kind heart, a servant attitude - so that I can continue to do for him, help and encourage him through his 'busy' times and look for a day of rest ahead. Maybe a Saturday or Sunday where I can sleep in and he'll wake up with Emma or maybe an evening I can 'tune out' and maybe read or do a mask or my toes...something to qualify as 'me' time. For the past couple of months, I've been planning to use a GC I have for a facial - thinking I can have a few hours away solo. BUT, my 'rest' that I look forward to and press on for during whatever is going on hasn't been happening, for one reason or another.
I guess enduring 2 months is better than just 1 week :) (my melt-downs were weekly for a while). Praise God for that! I just need to keep pressing and praying! And asking for prayer as well! I want to be able to make it through these times and continue to be that patient, loving, caring and serving person...not turn in to the 'i want to go lock myself in the closet where I can't hear anything and can hide from the world' person. Is that TMI? :) It's the truth...no hiding here. And, I've only done that maybe twice...and not recently, so no worries :)
NEEDLESS to say...I'm MUCH better today. After emotionally draining myself with some good crying yesterday, I slept WELL last night and here I am, gearing up for another day! And, yes, I realize it's 10 :) I 'start' my day when Emma goes down for a nap, when I have my quiet time. She fought it for an hour and a half this am, so I'm starting late today :)
Now you know how you can pray for me! And I'd much appreciate it:)
Have a great weekend! And if you have any prayer requests, don't hesitate!
Friday, July 15, 2011
The To-Do List Abyss
The To-Do List Abyss
Gwen Smith
Gwen Smith
Today’s Truth
Proverbs 31:17 (NIV) “She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.”
Friend To Friend
Many of us check off neatly penciled boxes. Some draw lines through the tasks we’ve finished. A select few of us even add tasks that we’ve already completed to our list so that we’ve got accurate accomplishment records at the end of the day! (Present company included!) Some of us keep track of what we need to do each day in our heads, while others track progress of daily goals electronically.
There are days I fluff up my list. Instead of simply writing, "Do three loads of laundry," I’ll create twelve list items to check off that read:
Friend To Friend
Many of us check off neatly penciled boxes. Some draw lines through the tasks we’ve finished. A select few of us even add tasks that we’ve already completed to our list so that we’ve got accurate accomplishment records at the end of the day! (Present company included!) Some of us keep track of what we need to do each day in our heads, while others track progress of daily goals electronically.
There are days I fluff up my list. Instead of simply writing, "Do three loads of laundry," I’ll create twelve list items to check off that read:
- Wash whites
- Dry whites
- Fold/hang whites
- Put away whites
- Wash colors
- Dry colors
- Fold/hang colors
- Put away colors
- Wash darks
- Dry darks
- Fold/hang darks
- Put away darks
Yeah, right.
I'm such a dreamer. It just never seems to work out that simply or efficiently.
I’m guessing that you are in this daily struggle with me. Right? No matter what it looks like, thinks like, or prints off like, many of us feel overwhelmed by the abyss of a rarely satisfied to-do list. We face constant demands that call to us and vie for our attention. We sift through the essentials and the fire drills, then we go to bed, wake up, and do it all again. The abyss of a to-do list can be so exhausting!
The good news is that we don’t need to face our lists alone. God offers to come along side of us daily to provide the strength, perspective, and wisdom we need. He helps us prioritize our days when we turn to Him in prayer. In the Bible, we read of a woman who approached each day with God-power and God-perspective:
“She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks” (Proverbs 31:17, NIV).
Though this is an impressive statement about her work ethic and though it seems this fictional woman dominates her daily to-do list, it’s important to consider the source of her strength: God. At the end of the chapter, Scripture shows us that she “...fears the Lord...” (Proverbs 31:30, NIV). Her source of strength is rooted in faith and in her dependence on God. Ours should be, too.
Your list looks different from mine. We all have unique ministries, friendships, jobs, responsibilities, and families. Whether you are in the work force, unemployed, or retired or a stay-at-home mom, a single mom, or an empty nester – a wife, a widow, a single woman, or a divorcee – God can and will give you strength for each day when you prioritize Him and fear Him.
Consider the following verses:
“Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort?” (Galatians 3:3, NIV).
“Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (Isaiah 40:28-31, NIV).
God longs to strengthen your arms for the tasks on your to-do list today. Place time with Him as your first priority. Check your God-box. Go to Him now. Pray. Listen. Call on Him for direction, wisdom, renewal, and strength. Strong arms await you, girlfriend!
Let’s Pray
God, I was created by You and for You. Please forgive me when I rush into a day without calling on You for my strength. I need you, Lord. Please prioritize my heart and my list today.
In Jesus’ Name I pray,
Amen.
Now It’s Your Turn
Read Proverbs 31:25-26: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.”
How closely do you relate to the above verse?
What steps need to be taken in your life to move toward a deeper dependence on God’s strength verses your own? Are you willing to go there? Take a moment to talk to God about it.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Jealousy...ew...
How easy is it to become jealous? Super, right? There are a few words I've tried to eliminate from my vocabulary, by weighing their value by what they mean. To be jealous of someone or something is a lot more than just saying it in passing. If I'm feeling like the words are going to come out of my mouth, I'll stop and say to myself, "Self...am I truly jealous? Am I placing this person or item on too high of a pedestal? In doing so, am I placing this person or item above you?"
Usually I realize that I don't feel THAT strongly about whatever it is, and there you have it, I choose a different word to describe my feeling (and have a little 'how do you really feel about this' moment at the same time).
So there's a little ramble from me today:) It comes from the blog post on Lysa TerKeurst's site.
Click here to read the post.
Enjoy :) Have a great weekend if I don't get a chance to post before then.
Usually I realize that I don't feel THAT strongly about whatever it is, and there you have it, I choose a different word to describe my feeling (and have a little 'how do you really feel about this' moment at the same time).
So there's a little ramble from me today:) It comes from the blog post on Lysa TerKeurst's site.
Click here to read the post.
Enjoy :) Have a great weekend if I don't get a chance to post before then.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
When Worry Makes Me Wonder
I know today's supposed to be 'wordless', but the Lord honored mine and my hubbies prayers and sent me this devotional email this morning that spoke to EXACTLY where I am at the moment. I had a mini-melt last night after dinner, and another this morning. Ahhh....I never thought about God sending emails :) Makes me smile. He speaks to us however He can get our attention! And I'm thrilled about that.
The following is from the P31 Ministries "Encouragement for Today" email. You can click here to subscribe to their daily emails and see what God's trying to say to you ;0...enjoy.
OH and I did get the best pictures ever of Ms Em this morning...will have to use them for next Wednesday's post :)
"She came to him and asked, 'Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!'" Luke 10:40b (NIV)
When life gets overwhelming, do you ever wonder if God notices everything you have going on — like how you're trying so hard to take care of everyone and everything? Staying up late to pay the bills, and feeling stretched between relationships at home and in ministry while caring for aging parents, commuting to work and carpooling kids?
Several years ago, I couldn't keep up with all of the commitments I'd made. I felt like I was suffocating under everything I needed to do. Slowly, I let worry weave it's way into my thoughts, making me wonder how I was going to do it all. I knew I should trust God more, but I was concerned that if I stopped worrying about everything and everybody He would too.
Eventually, I came to a point where I was exhausted and ready to resign from just about everything. I ran out of fuel. I didn't have enough energy to handle all of my roles, relationships and responsibilities.
I also ran out of faith. I started doubting my ability to manage my life, to hear God clearly and to do all I assumed He wanted me to do.
And all those worries that made me weary, also made me wonder. I wondered why God wasn't doing something to make life easier. I wondered if God noticed and cared about all I was doing for Him, and others.
One day I was reading my Bible and noticed how Martha's worries were making her weary, and making her wonder if Jesus cared that her sister left her in the kitchen to do all that work, all by herself.
And listen to how He responded: "'Martha, Martha,' the Lord answered, 'you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.'" (NIV)
So, how do we choose what is better? How do we let go of our worries and take hold of confident peace that assures us God notices and God cares?
First Peter 5:7 tells us: "Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you." (NLT)
The apostle Paul tells us the same and he tells us how: "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7, NLT)
It sounds so doable, but why is it so hard? I think it's because Satan whispers the opposite. He tells us, "Don't be calm about anything; instead worry about everything. Tell God what He should do. Then take control if He doesn't listen. And concerns that consume you will become like acid in your heart, eroding your confidence with worry and doubt!"
Instead of giving into the whispers of worry, spoken by the enemy, let's listen to God's promise for peace. When we feel overwhelmed by life this week, let's commit to ...
• Stop worrying — Press the pause button on our consuming concerns.
• Start praying — Talk to God about all we're doing. Ask if there's anything we need to cut back so we can seek Him as much as we serve Him, and others.
• Keep thanking God — Thank God for what He's done in the past and will do in the future. This helps us remember how good He is at being God.
Lord, when my concerns consume me, help me remember that You are with me, holding me by the hand and guiding me. I want to seek You as much as I serve You and others. Help me balance my life and give my worries to You, knowing with confidence that You care about me and are good at taking care of me! In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
This devotion is taken in part from chapter 9 of Renee Swope's upcoming book: A Confident Heart: How to Stop Doubting Yourself & Live in the Security of God's Promises. To order your copy, click here.
Join over 5,000 women who have signed up for Renee's "7-day DOUBT Diet" — you'll receive a week's worth of FREE devotions from her new book, A Confident Heart. To find out more, click here.
Visit Renee's new website where she's offering a free download of her favorite peace-giving promises and giving away two copies of her new book, A Confident Heart.
Application Steps:
"Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you," 1 Peter 5:7.
Write your concerns on an index card and physically give them to Jesus. I have a table-top cross by my bedside where I lay my "concerns card." Maybe you could get one, too. Then, when you start worrying, go back and write more on your card and commit once again to cast your cares upon the Lord.
Reflections:
Are there concerns that are consuming me? Have my worries made me wonder if God notices and cares about the details in my life?
Power Verses:
Psalm 138:7. "Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life. You stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes; with your right hand you save me." (NIV)
The following is from the P31 Ministries "Encouragement for Today" email. You can click here to subscribe to their daily emails and see what God's trying to say to you ;0...enjoy.
OH and I did get the best pictures ever of Ms Em this morning...will have to use them for next Wednesday's post :)
| When Worry Makes Me Wonder Renee Swope |
"She came to him and asked, 'Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!'" Luke 10:40b (NIV)
When life gets overwhelming, do you ever wonder if God notices everything you have going on — like how you're trying so hard to take care of everyone and everything? Staying up late to pay the bills, and feeling stretched between relationships at home and in ministry while caring for aging parents, commuting to work and carpooling kids?
Several years ago, I couldn't keep up with all of the commitments I'd made. I felt like I was suffocating under everything I needed to do. Slowly, I let worry weave it's way into my thoughts, making me wonder how I was going to do it all. I knew I should trust God more, but I was concerned that if I stopped worrying about everything and everybody He would too.
Eventually, I came to a point where I was exhausted and ready to resign from just about everything. I ran out of fuel. I didn't have enough energy to handle all of my roles, relationships and responsibilities.
I also ran out of faith. I started doubting my ability to manage my life, to hear God clearly and to do all I assumed He wanted me to do.
And all those worries that made me weary, also made me wonder. I wondered why God wasn't doing something to make life easier. I wondered if God noticed and cared about all I was doing for Him, and others.
One day I was reading my Bible and noticed how Martha's worries were making her weary, and making her wonder if Jesus cared that her sister left her in the kitchen to do all that work, all by herself.
And listen to how He responded: "'Martha, Martha,' the Lord answered, 'you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.'" (NIV)
So, how do we choose what is better? How do we let go of our worries and take hold of confident peace that assures us God notices and God cares?
First Peter 5:7 tells us: "Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you." (NLT)
The apostle Paul tells us the same and he tells us how: "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7, NLT)
It sounds so doable, but why is it so hard? I think it's because Satan whispers the opposite. He tells us, "Don't be calm about anything; instead worry about everything. Tell God what He should do. Then take control if He doesn't listen. And concerns that consume you will become like acid in your heart, eroding your confidence with worry and doubt!"
Instead of giving into the whispers of worry, spoken by the enemy, let's listen to God's promise for peace. When we feel overwhelmed by life this week, let's commit to ...
• Stop worrying — Press the pause button on our consuming concerns.
• Start praying — Talk to God about all we're doing. Ask if there's anything we need to cut back so we can seek Him as much as we serve Him, and others.
• Keep thanking God — Thank God for what He's done in the past and will do in the future. This helps us remember how good He is at being God.
Lord, when my concerns consume me, help me remember that You are with me, holding me by the hand and guiding me. I want to seek You as much as I serve You and others. Help me balance my life and give my worries to You, knowing with confidence that You care about me and are good at taking care of me! In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
This devotion is taken in part from chapter 9 of Renee Swope's upcoming book: A Confident Heart: How to Stop Doubting Yourself & Live in the Security of God's Promises. To order your copy, click here.
Join over 5,000 women who have signed up for Renee's "7-day DOUBT Diet" — you'll receive a week's worth of FREE devotions from her new book, A Confident Heart. To find out more, click here.
Visit Renee's new website where she's offering a free download of her favorite peace-giving promises and giving away two copies of her new book, A Confident Heart.
Application Steps:
"Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you," 1 Peter 5:7.
Write your concerns on an index card and physically give them to Jesus. I have a table-top cross by my bedside where I lay my "concerns card." Maybe you could get one, too. Then, when you start worrying, go back and write more on your card and commit once again to cast your cares upon the Lord.
Reflections:
Are there concerns that are consuming me? Have my worries made me wonder if God notices and cares about the details in my life?
Power Verses:
Psalm 138:7. "Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life. You stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes; with your right hand you save me." (NIV)
Friday, July 8, 2011
Come Out And Play
Somebody gave me a little jar of “Miracle Bubbles” with a plastic wand . . . and I blew bubbles for maybe ten minutes. (I made a new wand with the shape of a cat on the end. I wanted to see if the bubbles would come out cat-shaped. They don’t.)
Maybe you’d like to have your inner child come outside and enjoy a bit of adventure, but you don’t quite know how to coax her forth. After all, you’re grown up, have a respectable job where you wear business clothes every day, have worked hard for your education, and don’t want to look like an idiot by acting like a child blowing bubbles. You don’t have time to be creative and playful. It takes all the energy you can muster just to get through your busy day at the office. If you let down your decorum, what will people think?
I can tell you what they’ll think. They’ll be jealous that you’ve found a way to take the drudge out of the daily grind. They’ll want what you have. Everybody wants to be where the fun is. I don’t know a single person who is having too much fun.
Here are half a dozen tips that may help you bring your muse into the sunlight:
Unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. — Matthew 18:3 NIV
— Luci Swindoll
Maybe you’d like to have your inner child come outside and enjoy a bit of adventure, but you don’t quite know how to coax her forth. After all, you’re grown up, have a respectable job where you wear business clothes every day, have worked hard for your education, and don’t want to look like an idiot by acting like a child blowing bubbles. You don’t have time to be creative and playful. It takes all the energy you can muster just to get through your busy day at the office. If you let down your decorum, what will people think?
I can tell you what they’ll think. They’ll be jealous that you’ve found a way to take the drudge out of the daily grind. They’ll want what you have. Everybody wants to be where the fun is. I don’t know a single person who is having too much fun.
Here are half a dozen tips that may help you bring your muse into the sunlight:
- Figure out what the child within you wants to do and do it.
- Listen to that tiny, soft voice inside and believe it.
- Quit conforming to what the world demands and say, “No!” (Kids are good at that.)
- Surround yourself with people who love you and enjoy them.
- Create a life for yourself that’s meaningful and live there.
- Keep in mind that imagination is more important than knowledge.
Unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. — Matthew 18:3 NIV
— Luci Swindoll
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Video
Some of you that dare to stay tuned on a 'ramble' day should know that I like to visit Lysa TerKeurst's blog and read Proverbs 31 Ministry devos when I can. She introduced me to her pastor's wife's blog a couple of months back, which lead me to the Elevation Church website and I have shared a few of their sermons with you here. Yes, I give background infos about 99.9% of the time:)
Last week, I skimmed one of Lysa's posts where she said she was going to be speaking at her church, and I thought 'cool'. I thought maybe for an audience of women only, a ladies brunch perhaps. Something I thought I'd have to be in the area for to catch. When I checked out Holly Furtick's blog earlier this week (as she does a Monday morning commentary on the Sunday sermon), I saw she mentioned Lysa was the deliverer of Sunday's Sermon. Background infos concluded ;)
Finally this morning I got a chance to watch/listen - and she talked about so much, I wanted to share! If you know her story of adoption, she goes in to far more detail her than she did on Oprah :) Just a great message about our reactions determining our reach.
Click here to enjoy!
Last week, I skimmed one of Lysa's posts where she said she was going to be speaking at her church, and I thought 'cool'. I thought maybe for an audience of women only, a ladies brunch perhaps. Something I thought I'd have to be in the area for to catch. When I checked out Holly Furtick's blog earlier this week (as she does a Monday morning commentary on the Sunday sermon), I saw she mentioned Lysa was the deliverer of Sunday's Sermon. Background infos concluded ;)
Finally this morning I got a chance to watch/listen - and she talked about so much, I wanted to share! If you know her story of adoption, she goes in to far more detail her than she did on Oprah :) Just a great message about our reactions determining our reach.
Click here to enjoy!
Friday, May 27, 2011
The Moment - Lysa TerKeurst
The Moment
So familiar can some of our relationships be, we forget. We rush. We assume. We feel like we have forever.
And feeling like we have forever cheapens the right now feelings.
Each morning I have a routine with my man. It’s simple. Nothing profound. Nothing for which we’d ever stop and snap a picture.
It’s just a moment.
He asks me to help him pick a tie. He then goes away to fuss with this fixture of his professional job. Soon, he returns with a flipped up collar and a pressed down, knotted tie. He needs gentle hands to fold the collar over. No, he doesn’t need. He wants gentle hands to fold the collar over.
And I do.
It’s just a moment.
But it’s something I would miss with the deepest ache imaginable if today was the last of the moments.
If today.
Tears slip as I think about this. Dear God, help me think about this. Let me snap a hundred of these moments with the lens of my heart to be stored and appreciated and thought of as the great treasure they are.
Let my mind park there.
Let my heart relish there.
Let my mouth dare to whisper what a joy this is. “I love you. I love us. I love this moment each day.”
No, our relationship isn’t perfect. No relationship is. We’re two very strong willed people with vastly different approaches to life. And oh how easy it would be to list out all the differences. He likes the towel hanging in the same spot. I am more creative. But I stop the list here.
I stop because great love isn’t two people finding the perfect match in one another.
Great love is two people making the choice to be a match.
A decision.
To fold his collar and snap the heart lens and find myself grateful to the point of tears.
Tears of relishing today are so much better than tears of what was missed.
It’s just a moment.
Or is it?
Here's a link to her blog...some really great posts this past week and last.
Lord, let us enjoy the MOMENTS! Let us choose gratitude over self-centered grumbling. Let us love where you have us, not look for where we want to be. Let us look for your hand in our lives NOW and your guidance TODAY. You are teaching us today. You are loving us today. You are right next to us, talking with us today. You are answering our prayers and blessing us today. Do we see it all? Are we pausing in our 'busyness' to notice YOU today? Let us be right here in our today.
Monday, May 16, 2011
The Truth About Time
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven. —Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV
Time is my highest priority right now. I never have enough of it. And the truth is, I’ll never have enough time because it’s all up to God, and he views time differently than I do.
My time has to do with duration, a measurable period when something occurs. I don’t have enough “duration” during the day. I lack the continuum for everything I want or need to do to actually get it done. It’s that simple. But God’s timing is in terms of division; He operates moment by moment or through seasons or a lifetime or a dispensation. His time is not measurable, because He’s eternal and earthly time is temporal.
The reason this is important is because when I look at my life from a human viewpoint, I run out of time. But when I look at it from a spiritual viewpoint, I see that God is in charge of everything; I’m not! Therefore, I will accomplish whatever comes my way even though it may not be written into the schedule of my daily planner.
Realistically speaking, then, I do have enough time. I have all the time God wants me to have and can spend it any way I like. I just need God’s help to learn to spend it better.
—Luci Swindoll
Friday, February 18, 2011
Free
While I know I'm a struggler in this area, I am learning more and more that EVERYONE struggles with lack of 'freedom', so I had to share this...my comments at the end :) Click here for some background tunes...a song that came to mind while reading :)
FreeLynn Cowell
"I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts."
Psalm 119:45 (NIV)
Devotion:Being busy, overwhelmed in fact, made me feel important. I loved nothing more than creating a to-do list, simply for the happiness of checking it off. Even better was recounting the day back to my husband; my life sounded so important! Running around had a purpose.
Busyness quieted the voices of insignificance that screamed inside my head. But it wore me down. The pay-off simply wasn't there.
Soon I sensed God asking me to take things off my plate. When I didn't, He started removing them...one by one. That is when I began to experience freedom and the peace that comes from simply being. I found my completion in being His girl. The more I embraced the Lord, the more His freedom became the thing I cherished.
Dictionary.com defines freedom as the state of being free or at liberty, rather than in confinement or under physical restraint.
Freedom is my word for 2011, a word I want to fully understand. A word I am defining for me as: unconfined by my human limitations; free to be an expression of my amazing God and His revolutionary love.
David must have been a bit like me; a man prone to have to preach to himself on occasion. He gave himself this command, "I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts" (Psalm 119:45, NIV).
In the original language "freedom" here means spacious, broad, roomy. That's not exactly how most non-Christians would describe Christians. But spacious, broad and roomy is exactly what Jesus has for those who are His.
Since God is not a God of chaos or confinement, when I follow His ways He brings freedom. He causes the things He has not called me to do, or to be a part of, to fade in the background. That is where my purpose is peaceful.
Father, I need Your freedom - the ability to move about without being driven by compulsion or emotions. I seek Your direction to find Your freedom. I choose to allow my expectations to fade, enabling my family and friends to walk in a spacious and broad place. I choose to walk in Your ways, not cluttering life with me and my agenda, but having room to be led by Your Spirit. Thank You, Lord, for giving me what only You can give...true freedom. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Stop by Lynn's blog today. She is hosting a special "freedom" give away!
Application Steps: In what area of life do you struggle to experience freedom and peace? Take today's key verse and insert your struggle. For example: "I will walk about in freedom from controlling my family, for I have sought out Your precepts." Write this out. Memorize it. Make it your go-to place when you need God's freedom.
Maybe like Lynn was, you are addicted to frenzy and you don't want to exchange crazy for calm. Ask the Lord to give you a desire to experience His peace.
Reflections: Why do I struggle to have freedom in certain areas of my life? (Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the root cause of the struggle.)
With the root revealed, what actions do I need to take toward freedom? (For example: pray for faith, choose forgiveness, focus on my completion in Christ, etc.)
Power Verses: Galatians 5:1, "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." (NIV)
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Watch this video
I very much enjoy the teachings of Beth Moore :) I appreciate her humor, her realness and how much she puts in to learning, and turns around and shares it with us! Here's a video that aired a couple of weeks back - check back for part II to be posted.
http://www.lightsource.com/ministry/wednesdays-with-beth/20101222/
As always, it spoke to me in some ways and hoping it will speak to you as well!
http://www.lightsource.com/ministry/wednesdays-with-beth/20101222/
As always, it spoke to me in some ways and hoping it will speak to you as well!
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Top 10 - Anita Renfroe
had to do the 'head nod...yep...agree' all the way down this list, so thought I would share!
A good woman is hard to find . . . When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say. —Proverbs 31:10, 26 MSG
Sleep researchers tell us that women have from 20 to 50 percent higher incidence of insomnia than men. They say that this is due to our fluctuating levels of estrogen. Women would tell you that this is really because we are the only gender that truly has a grip on the emotional complexities of life and once the lights go out our minds zoom in like a laser pen on the most pressing issue de jour.
I made up this list during one of those sleepless nights. It’s a countdown a la The David Letterman Showof some things I probably should pass on to a younger generation . . .
- Surround yourself with people who build you up.
- Take care of your body.
- You make your decisions—but then your decisions make you.
- A chapter of Proverbs a day keeps the stupids away.
- Keep your destiny in mind.
- Pray about everything.
- Never make important decisions when you are tired or hungry.
- Take time to decide what is worth doing, then do it with your whole heart and with excellence.
- Call home.
- Love God.
— Anita Renfroe
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