Christmas has got to be one of the most intense times of the year for people. It seems like there is some sort of obligation every single night. We always seem to be going non-stop. A couple of days ago I couldn’t get the Doxology out of my head for some reason. Usually when that happens to me that means there is something I am supposed to get out of it. I guess the word that stood out the most for me at the time was endure. Good word for this time of year... don't you think?
God's Word says in 1 Chronicles 16:34 - Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. Psalm 136 says it probably 100 times more.
I looked up the word endurance in the dictionary just for grins. The definition is, the ability to sustain a prolonged stressful effort or activity. I don’t know about you but I think my endurance level is pretty good. There has been a ton of stuff going on here at the church and there have been many late nights and long weekends lately. I am confident many of you are dealing with the very same things in your lives. You know... even in the busiest times of our lives the blessing for us is there is a light at the end of our tunnels. We will only have to deal with the late nights and long weekends for a short time period. While we must endure only for a time… the scripture says the Lord’s love endures FOREVER. Wow. That is a long time. I don’t know about you, but I promise you I get worn out and I know I cannot continue forever when the demands are very high. I get tired, weak and ineffective. My earthly tent just will not allow me to continue on forever.
What is amazing to me is that the Lord never tires. No matter how difficult we may be to love, He endures and continues to love us FOREVER. No matter the late nights or the long weekends… he can continue at the same pace of loving us even when we don’t deserve it.
I think that even when we are tired and feeling weak, we should remember that the Lord never tires. He is ever strong to continue to show us His love which in turn gives us strength to continue on even when we think we have nothing left in us to give.
So my prayer for each of you? Endurance!
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Thursday, December 3, 2009
The Madness Of It All
Everyone writes about how crazy the season is at this time of year, but what I have noticed is that it seems the madness is becoming a year-round problem. What happened? Since when did we decide that we had to be going non-stop? Not only are we a non-stop society, but we are going so fast and furious that we have lost sight of what is going on around us. We have become so task oriented that we can't even take our eye's off the to do list to see all the wonderful things we have just been going by.
Are you holding the door for people as they pass?
Are you helping your neighbor carrying in bags?
Are you noticing the hurting people you come in contact with?
Are you writing notes to people who just need a word of encouragement?
If you are so wrapped up in yourself and what is going on with you, you are missing the opportunity (simple opportunities) to be a blessing to someone.
I urge you to start now (and not just for the season) and be purposeful about looking for opportunities to bless someone each and every day. It doesn't have to be huge. Sometimes the most simple things are all anyone really needs to turn them around and get them on a better path for their life!
Are you holding the door for people as they pass?
Are you helping your neighbor carrying in bags?
Are you noticing the hurting people you come in contact with?
Are you writing notes to people who just need a word of encouragement?
If you are so wrapped up in yourself and what is going on with you, you are missing the opportunity (simple opportunities) to be a blessing to someone.
I urge you to start now (and not just for the season) and be purposeful about looking for opportunities to bless someone each and every day. It doesn't have to be huge. Sometimes the most simple things are all anyone really needs to turn them around and get them on a better path for their life!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
In Everything Give Thanks!
It is Thanksgiving week and there are so many things to be thankful for I thought I would just take this opportunity to share what I am thankful for.
1. I am thankful for a God that loves me. He loves me when I am successful, when I fail, when I am weak and when I am strong. It doesn't matter where I am in life, I know that he will never leave me.
2. I am thankful for my family. I am blessed with a husband that I love deeply and who loves me deeply even after 18 years together. I have two of the most wonderful children anyone could hope for. I am blessed with parent's who were strong enough people to lay their differences aside when my brother's and I were children so that we never had to argue over which house we were to spend our holidays. We spent them together and still do when possible.
3. I am thankful for my job. It is a tremendous blessing to be able to work at this church day after day. I can't tell you how much of a difference it has made in my life to know the endless hours of work I put in each week goes to impact some one's life for eternity not someone else's bank account. I work with amazing people and for a man truly anointed by the spirit of God. To see that in action each and every week is something I will never forget.
4. I am thankful for the great people I get to serve with each and every week. The people of the church I work for are amazing people with a heart for serving the Kingdom of God. I'm blessed each day knowing that I can count on them to make what would otherwise be impossible... POSSIBLE.
I could go on and on because despite anything that is going wrong with my life... There are 50 more things going right! So... What are you thankful for?
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
1. I am thankful for a God that loves me. He loves me when I am successful, when I fail, when I am weak and when I am strong. It doesn't matter where I am in life, I know that he will never leave me.
2. I am thankful for my family. I am blessed with a husband that I love deeply and who loves me deeply even after 18 years together. I have two of the most wonderful children anyone could hope for. I am blessed with parent's who were strong enough people to lay their differences aside when my brother's and I were children so that we never had to argue over which house we were to spend our holidays. We spent them together and still do when possible.
3. I am thankful for my job. It is a tremendous blessing to be able to work at this church day after day. I can't tell you how much of a difference it has made in my life to know the endless hours of work I put in each week goes to impact some one's life for eternity not someone else's bank account. I work with amazing people and for a man truly anointed by the spirit of God. To see that in action each and every week is something I will never forget.
4. I am thankful for the great people I get to serve with each and every week. The people of the church I work for are amazing people with a heart for serving the Kingdom of God. I'm blessed each day knowing that I can count on them to make what would otherwise be impossible... POSSIBLE.
I could go on and on because despite anything that is going wrong with my life... There are 50 more things going right! So... What are you thankful for?
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
An Impactful Smile
My Twitter post from Tuesday morning...
Good morning. It is going to be a great day! Whose life are you going to impact for the better today?
I garnered two types of responses from this post. One was basically, "What could possibly make this day great?" The other responses were overwhelmingly positive about the impacting some one's life for the better.
Based on these responses I felt like there was a couple of things I had to say about this post and the reactions.
1. Every day can be a great day! It is all in how you approach the day. Just think about Joseph. This guy was getting raw deal after raw deal. However, despite all that was happening to him... He honored God in everything he did. He didn't let his circumstance be the deciding factor for his attitude. Approach each day, no matter how difficult it may be, with an attitude of gratitude. I believe the Lord will see your heart and guide you to a better place. He will reward you justly. If you can do this, you will not only greatly impact your personal life for the better, but just think about the Christian example you can be for others who are struggling through many of the same issues you are battling.
2. You can impact ANY ONE'S life for the better each and every day of your life. From a simple smile to a person who feels like everyone in the world is against them, to a helping hand for the person who cannot stand on their own... Your impact can be tremendous. Many times you will never know how God has used you, but remember that He does use us to be little beacons of His light. You know how easy it can be to disguise your pain to others so keep in mind that everyone you meet could be going through struggles that you may never know. How we treat them during those times can be turning points in their life.
So all that to say... be kind, be loving and be the Light of Christ. It isn't hard to do at all.
Good morning. It is going to be a great day! Whose life are you going to impact for the better today?
I garnered two types of responses from this post. One was basically, "What could possibly make this day great?" The other responses were overwhelmingly positive about the impacting some one's life for the better.
Based on these responses I felt like there was a couple of things I had to say about this post and the reactions.
1. Every day can be a great day! It is all in how you approach the day. Just think about Joseph. This guy was getting raw deal after raw deal. However, despite all that was happening to him... He honored God in everything he did. He didn't let his circumstance be the deciding factor for his attitude. Approach each day, no matter how difficult it may be, with an attitude of gratitude. I believe the Lord will see your heart and guide you to a better place. He will reward you justly. If you can do this, you will not only greatly impact your personal life for the better, but just think about the Christian example you can be for others who are struggling through many of the same issues you are battling.
2. You can impact ANY ONE'S life for the better each and every day of your life. From a simple smile to a person who feels like everyone in the world is against them, to a helping hand for the person who cannot stand on their own... Your impact can be tremendous. Many times you will never know how God has used you, but remember that He does use us to be little beacons of His light. You know how easy it can be to disguise your pain to others so keep in mind that everyone you meet could be going through struggles that you may never know. How we treat them during those times can be turning points in their life.
So all that to say... be kind, be loving and be the Light of Christ. It isn't hard to do at all.
Monday, October 26, 2009
It may not always be easy, but it is always right!
One of my scriptures for the day was Daniel 4. Aside from the fact that I am positive I cannot pronounce the name of the king or even Daniel's name (given by the king), this is a wonderful example of why it is important to listen to the Godly people in your life!
King Nebuchadnezzar (See what I mean?) had a dream and none of his "wise" men were able to interpret it for him. So what is a king to do? Call on Daniel (or Belteshazzar as the King named him) and order him to interpret it. You see, the King believed that Daniel had "the spirit of the holy gods" in him. {Side note... at this point in the King's life he did not believe in our one true God.} So, in comes Daniel... he listens to the King's dream and right away Daniel knew this wasn't a good dream for the King to have had. Daniel had to tell the King that the Lord was going to punish him for not believing in Him.
Wow! If I am the King and I hear that interpretation, I believe I might change my way. After all, the King believes Daniel is the only one who can correctly interpret the dream. But no... that is not what happens. The King ignores Daniel's warnings and sure enough the dream comes to fruition.
I know what you are thinking... You would never ignore such a warning. Are you sure about that? I think we do it all the time! As much as I would love to say I was perfect and obedient to God's Word I am not. I am human and along with that comes selfish behaviors and bad decisions. What can be done about it? LISTEN and then APPLY! Hear what the Godly people in your life are saying to you and apply the words of God to your life. It may not always be easy, but it is always right!
King Nebuchadnezzar (See what I mean?) had a dream and none of his "wise" men were able to interpret it for him. So what is a king to do? Call on Daniel (or Belteshazzar as the King named him) and order him to interpret it. You see, the King believed that Daniel had "the spirit of the holy gods" in him. {Side note... at this point in the King's life he did not believe in our one true God.} So, in comes Daniel... he listens to the King's dream and right away Daniel knew this wasn't a good dream for the King to have had. Daniel had to tell the King that the Lord was going to punish him for not believing in Him.
Wow! If I am the King and I hear that interpretation, I believe I might change my way. After all, the King believes Daniel is the only one who can correctly interpret the dream. But no... that is not what happens. The King ignores Daniel's warnings and sure enough the dream comes to fruition.
I know what you are thinking... You would never ignore such a warning. Are you sure about that? I think we do it all the time! As much as I would love to say I was perfect and obedient to God's Word I am not. I am human and along with that comes selfish behaviors and bad decisions. What can be done about it? LISTEN and then APPLY! Hear what the Godly people in your life are saying to you and apply the words of God to your life. It may not always be easy, but it is always right!
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Where did that come from?
Isaiah 55:8 says... “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.
This morning, during a book study I participate in, we discussed the idea of where our thoughts come from. The leader of the group (Paul, for those who know him!) suggested that our thoughts come from three places.
1. God
2. Satan
3. Self.
It is up to us to choose the right thought to retain.
This discussion got me to thinking about how God has formed us to choose Him in EVERYTHING we do. He has made us so that loving Him is entirely up to us... completely.
It amazes me that our God could have created us so that each and every one of us worshipped and believed in Him always and without a second thought. That isn't what he did. He gave us free will. We have to choose. It also isn't just about one singular choice of believing in Him. Once we have done that we still have to follow Him. We can't just say, "Hey Jesus. I believe in you. I know you died for me. So, thanks for that. Oh and... Are we good now?" No, we have to believe and follow.
Deuteronomy 13:4 says...
It is the Lord your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him.
So as you move throughout your day remember to seek the Lord's guidance in EVERYTHING you do (Psalm 32:8). Remember that we are human and even though it was God who made us this way, it is up to us to live His way!
This morning, during a book study I participate in, we discussed the idea of where our thoughts come from. The leader of the group (Paul, for those who know him!) suggested that our thoughts come from three places.
1. God
2. Satan
3. Self.
It is up to us to choose the right thought to retain.
This discussion got me to thinking about how God has formed us to choose Him in EVERYTHING we do. He has made us so that loving Him is entirely up to us... completely.
It amazes me that our God could have created us so that each and every one of us worshipped and believed in Him always and without a second thought. That isn't what he did. He gave us free will. We have to choose. It also isn't just about one singular choice of believing in Him. Once we have done that we still have to follow Him. We can't just say, "Hey Jesus. I believe in you. I know you died for me. So, thanks for that. Oh and... Are we good now?" No, we have to believe and follow.
Deuteronomy 13:4 says...
It is the Lord your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him.
So as you move throughout your day remember to seek the Lord's guidance in EVERYTHING you do (Psalm 32:8). Remember that we are human and even though it was God who made us this way, it is up to us to live His way!
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
It's only hair, shoes... oh and your job
There was a lot going on tonight at ye old Ethridge house! Clayton had his hair cut tonight. Yes it was a major deal... check it out.
Clay before...
Clay after...
Then he got home and had to do a little preparation for the PSAT test he is taking tomorrow before the marching band takes off for their very first competition in probably 20 years. (That is how long it has been since Eaton had a marching band.) So, as you can see... there is a lot going on there with him.
Dylan is finishing up his football season and getting ready to kick off basketball... Yes, that means I have to buy him another pair of shoes. Should a 14 year old really be wearing 10 1/2 to size 11 shoes? Shortly after basketball starts, he will be celebrating his 14th birthday so we are working on the plans for that weekend too.
The biggest thing we were dealing with tonight was the impending news from Bobby's company regarding layoffs happening December 18. The company began delivering the news to the staff this morning and it will take until Friday to speak with everyone. Rumors have been flying so that just added to the stress of the wait. Bobby was working a night shift today so he got into work around 7pm. I didn't hear until 10pm that he is NOT a part of the layoff. While I exhaled a breath of relief, he went on to say he lost one of his team members who was asked to leave immediately and because he had been written up just under (by three days) a year ago, he would not be receiving any severance package. So after 10 years of service... tonight was his last night. So my relief was great regarding our personal situation, yet I can't seem to shake this person's situation from my mind. Three days away from his write-up falling of his record and he could have possibly had a different result for the evening.
I looked up the word forgive on www.youversion.com. It pulled 86 verses. The one that stood out for me tonight was...
2 Chronicles 7:14
if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
You know what I don't see in there... Statements like this: After one year without any further transgressions, your sin will drop from your record and you can start anew.
There isn't any clause like that with our Lord. If you ask to be forgiven, and you are truly repentant, then you are forgiven. It is over. Gone. You have a "clean slate." If you died the next minute after seeking forgiveness, God isn't going to look you in the eye and say that you were on probation from your sin and you died before that probationary period was up and you cannot enter the Kingdom. No! He is going to say to you, "Welcome home my child."
Clay before...
Clay after...
Then he got home and had to do a little preparation for the PSAT test he is taking tomorrow before the marching band takes off for their very first competition in probably 20 years. (That is how long it has been since Eaton had a marching band.) So, as you can see... there is a lot going on there with him.
Dylan is finishing up his football season and getting ready to kick off basketball... Yes, that means I have to buy him another pair of shoes. Should a 14 year old really be wearing 10 1/2 to size 11 shoes? Shortly after basketball starts, he will be celebrating his 14th birthday so we are working on the plans for that weekend too.
The biggest thing we were dealing with tonight was the impending news from Bobby's company regarding layoffs happening December 18. The company began delivering the news to the staff this morning and it will take until Friday to speak with everyone. Rumors have been flying so that just added to the stress of the wait. Bobby was working a night shift today so he got into work around 7pm. I didn't hear until 10pm that he is NOT a part of the layoff. While I exhaled a breath of relief, he went on to say he lost one of his team members who was asked to leave immediately and because he had been written up just under (by three days) a year ago, he would not be receiving any severance package. So after 10 years of service... tonight was his last night. So my relief was great regarding our personal situation, yet I can't seem to shake this person's situation from my mind. Three days away from his write-up falling of his record and he could have possibly had a different result for the evening.
I looked up the word forgive on www.youversion.com. It pulled 86 verses. The one that stood out for me tonight was...
2 Chronicles 7:14
if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
You know what I don't see in there... Statements like this: After one year without any further transgressions, your sin will drop from your record and you can start anew.
There isn't any clause like that with our Lord. If you ask to be forgiven, and you are truly repentant, then you are forgiven. It is over. Gone. You have a "clean slate." If you died the next minute after seeking forgiveness, God isn't going to look you in the eye and say that you were on probation from your sin and you died before that probationary period was up and you cannot enter the Kingdom. No! He is going to say to you, "Welcome home my child."
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
The Assumption of Flu
This past weekend and through Monday my entire family was stricken by what was believed to be H1N1. I say "believed to be" because the doctors aren't even testing for it anymore. The spread is so vast and there really isn't much they can do so they just treat the symptoms and assume you have it.
While I was enjoying my forced break from work, I kept thinking about the fact that the doctor's just assumed what we had was H1N1. Seems to me to be a pretty odd thing for a doctor to do... Assume that is. However, isn't that what we do all the time? We assume somebody has told our un-churched friend about Christ so we don't do it. We assume someone is showing that homeless person the love of Christ. We assume someone is taking care of feeding the hungry. The truth is Jesus said in Luke 10:2, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few."
We have to quit assuming someone else is doing what Christ has called us to do. Even if someone else is doing it, Christ called every Christian to show the love of Christ and share the Good News because the harvest is plentiful! The thought of leaving fruit on the tree to rot because there aren't enough people to take care of the harvest is distressing. Who has God brought in your life recently that maybe is the person you are being called to reach out to. Why aren't you doing it? What is holding you back. Use an alias if you must but post it and let's talk through it right here.
While I was enjoying my forced break from work, I kept thinking about the fact that the doctor's just assumed what we had was H1N1. Seems to me to be a pretty odd thing for a doctor to do... Assume that is. However, isn't that what we do all the time? We assume somebody has told our un-churched friend about Christ so we don't do it. We assume someone is showing that homeless person the love of Christ. We assume someone is taking care of feeding the hungry. The truth is Jesus said in Luke 10:2, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few."
We have to quit assuming someone else is doing what Christ has called us to do. Even if someone else is doing it, Christ called every Christian to show the love of Christ and share the Good News because the harvest is plentiful! The thought of leaving fruit on the tree to rot because there aren't enough people to take care of the harvest is distressing. Who has God brought in your life recently that maybe is the person you are being called to reach out to. Why aren't you doing it? What is holding you back. Use an alias if you must but post it and let's talk through it right here.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Humble Pie By Choice
For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted. Luke 14:11
In 1 Kings 21 Ahab stayed off disaster because he humbled himself before the Lord. In 2 Chronicles 12 Rehoboam and all the leaders of Israel humble themselves before the Lord and 2 Chronicles 12:7 says When the Lord saw that they humbled themselves, this word of the Lord came to Shemaiah: “Since they have humbled themselves, I will not destroy them but will soon give them deliverance. My wrath will not be poured out on Jerusalem through Shishak.
I don't know about you but I am starting to see a pattern. Seems to me those who are willing to... by choice... eat a big piece of humble pie will avoid being destroyed by the Lord! I think out of the two options you have here the choice is pretty simple. Humble yourself and be saved or keep your pride and arrogance and be destroyed. So why is it there are so many people still holding on to their prideful, arrogant ways? Do you feel like you are so good at your job that you don't need God to guide you? Do you feel like you have to be hanging out with the most popular/important people to really be successful in life? Repeatedly in the scripture God honors the humble and brings the haughty low (2 Samuel 22:28, Isaiah 5:15, Matthew 23:12).
So I pray I do not think too highly of myself. I pray I do not worry with my place among the men and women of this world and only worry about my place with the Lord. I pray I remember I am but a servant.
In 1 Kings 21 Ahab stayed off disaster because he humbled himself before the Lord. In 2 Chronicles 12 Rehoboam and all the leaders of Israel humble themselves before the Lord and 2 Chronicles 12:7 says When the Lord saw that they humbled themselves, this word of the Lord came to Shemaiah: “Since they have humbled themselves, I will not destroy them but will soon give them deliverance. My wrath will not be poured out on Jerusalem through Shishak.
I don't know about you but I am starting to see a pattern. Seems to me those who are willing to... by choice... eat a big piece of humble pie will avoid being destroyed by the Lord! I think out of the two options you have here the choice is pretty simple. Humble yourself and be saved or keep your pride and arrogance and be destroyed. So why is it there are so many people still holding on to their prideful, arrogant ways? Do you feel like you are so good at your job that you don't need God to guide you? Do you feel like you have to be hanging out with the most popular/important people to really be successful in life? Repeatedly in the scripture God honors the humble and brings the haughty low (2 Samuel 22:28, Isaiah 5:15, Matthew 23:12).
So I pray I do not think too highly of myself. I pray I do not worry with my place among the men and women of this world and only worry about my place with the Lord. I pray I remember I am but a servant.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Just for fun!
Thought some of you might enjoy seeing some of the graphic work I have been working on lately. Love to hear your comments so please type away!!
This one is for an upcoming Concert of Prayer at our church.
This one was for a large outdoor baptism event we had.
This one is for an upcoming Concert of Prayer at our church.
This one was for a large outdoor baptism event we had.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
It's A Miracle!
Luke 5: 1-11
1 One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret,with the people crowding around him and listening to the word of God,2 he saw at the water's edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets.
3 He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat.
4 When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.”
5 Simon answered, “Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.”
6 When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break.
7 So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.
8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus' knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!”9 For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken,
10 and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon's partners.
Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don't be afraid; from now on you will catch men.”
11 So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.
I love that Simon Peter is there as Jesus is speaking to such a crowd that he had to climb into a boat and push out from the shore and yet it takes a miracle of boat loads of fish for Simon Peter to realize that he is a sinful man and in the presence of the Lord. Can you imagine just hearing Jesus speaking and not being so moved to realize your sin much less realize you are in the presence of Christ Jesus?
So if Simon Peter took a miracle to come to Christ even though he was already in the presence of the Lord... what is it going to take for you? Do you go to church week after week, yet you haven't laid it all down and made the decision to follow Christ? What miracle are you looking for? Maybe you are just too close to see it?
Christ is still performing miracles that will blow your mind if you just open your eyes to see them. Far more explosive then a boat full of fish. What miracles you ask? Take a look around. There are miracles every time we take a breath, every time we catch a glimpse of a beautiful sunset, every time we take a step. Too small for you? What about every time a soldier comes home from war, what about every time a premature baby grows up into an obnoxious teenager, what about every time the doctor says the cancer is in remission.
Maybe you aren't seeing the miracles because you are too close. Maybe you should push out from the shore and take it all in and look at it from a different point of view. Jesus is still performing great miracles. Do you see them? Will you leave everything and follow Him?
1 One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret,with the people crowding around him and listening to the word of God,2 he saw at the water's edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets.
3 He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat.
4 When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.”
5 Simon answered, “Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.”
6 When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break.
7 So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.
8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus' knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!”9 For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken,
10 and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon's partners.
Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don't be afraid; from now on you will catch men.”
11 So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.
I love that Simon Peter is there as Jesus is speaking to such a crowd that he had to climb into a boat and push out from the shore and yet it takes a miracle of boat loads of fish for Simon Peter to realize that he is a sinful man and in the presence of the Lord. Can you imagine just hearing Jesus speaking and not being so moved to realize your sin much less realize you are in the presence of Christ Jesus?
So if Simon Peter took a miracle to come to Christ even though he was already in the presence of the Lord... what is it going to take for you? Do you go to church week after week, yet you haven't laid it all down and made the decision to follow Christ? What miracle are you looking for? Maybe you are just too close to see it?
Christ is still performing miracles that will blow your mind if you just open your eyes to see them. Far more explosive then a boat full of fish. What miracles you ask? Take a look around. There are miracles every time we take a breath, every time we catch a glimpse of a beautiful sunset, every time we take a step. Too small for you? What about every time a soldier comes home from war, what about every time a premature baby grows up into an obnoxious teenager, what about every time the doctor says the cancer is in remission.
Maybe you aren't seeing the miracles because you are too close. Maybe you should push out from the shore and take it all in and look at it from a different point of view. Jesus is still performing great miracles. Do you see them? Will you leave everything and follow Him?
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Tomorrow's Troubles
Matthew 6:34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Do not worry about tomorrow! Is it just me or is that easier said than done most of the time? We are going through so much these days with financial, career, family, and many more different types of pressures. Tell me... is there one person out there that truly doesn't have something they could be worrying about?
The Lord says to not worry about tomorrow. I'm all for that! Really... who wants to worry about tomorrow? Today is hard enough and has, as the Lord says, enough trouble of its own. Do you really want to add another day's worth of trouble to your existing worries? I don't.
We just recently had a funeral at the church for a young mom. It was a very sad day for that family. What I realize every time we have a funeral at that church is we do not know how many days we have here on this earth. Only the Lord knows. So who am I to fill my days with worry about days I am not sure are mine to worry about.
I want to live this life the Lord has given me to the fullest. I want to love and serve Him. I want to love and care for my family. Those are the things that matter. So what about those worries that fill my day? I will give those to the Lord and certainly not worry about tomorrow's worries. After all, they may not belong to me at all.
Do not worry about tomorrow! Is it just me or is that easier said than done most of the time? We are going through so much these days with financial, career, family, and many more different types of pressures. Tell me... is there one person out there that truly doesn't have something they could be worrying about?
The Lord says to not worry about tomorrow. I'm all for that! Really... who wants to worry about tomorrow? Today is hard enough and has, as the Lord says, enough trouble of its own. Do you really want to add another day's worth of trouble to your existing worries? I don't.
We just recently had a funeral at the church for a young mom. It was a very sad day for that family. What I realize every time we have a funeral at that church is we do not know how many days we have here on this earth. Only the Lord knows. So who am I to fill my days with worry about days I am not sure are mine to worry about.
I want to live this life the Lord has given me to the fullest. I want to love and serve Him. I want to love and care for my family. Those are the things that matter. So what about those worries that fill my day? I will give those to the Lord and certainly not worry about tomorrow's worries. After all, they may not belong to me at all.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Labor Day
Exodus 34:21 “Six days you shall labor, but on the seventh day you shall rest; even during the plowing season and harvest you must rest.
Rest... Huh. I'm going to have to admit that I am not very good at this one. Well, at least not until I have run myself ragged and then fall over exhausted. Then I rest. I know I am not alone in this one!
A good friend gave me a book to read not too long ago. It is on this very subject. I was told it would be an easy read and that it really would be helpful. Frankly, it hasn't been a very easy read for me. Throughout the book I have learned things about myself that I really didn't care to know. They have been a little painful in fact.
I learned that I push myself to the point of exhaustion because I feel like I have a need to prove myself because I do not have a college degree.
I learned that I push myself because I feel like I am indispensable. I thought the work couldn't not be done without me.
I learned that I push myself because I am avoiding dealing with things that are difficult in my life.
Wow... I hope you didn't mind the honesty!
The book I am reading is Leading On Empty by Wayne Cordeiro. The best thing I learned from the book....
When we rest, we learn that God can go on and do His work without us... we learn that if you take the time to deal with personal issues in your life, your work for the Lord is much more effective... we learn that the Lord can use anyone, even those who do not have extensive higher education. The books says it this way... We return with a humble heart.
I know now that I always want to approach the Lord's work with a humble heart. Even if you are not working in the ministry, this applies to you too. Remember that Lord is the one who has gifted you with the abilities to do your job. Take the day of rest He has commanded and return rest, reinvigorated and most of all humble and you can do great things in the name of the Lord.
Rest... Huh. I'm going to have to admit that I am not very good at this one. Well, at least not until I have run myself ragged and then fall over exhausted. Then I rest. I know I am not alone in this one!
A good friend gave me a book to read not too long ago. It is on this very subject. I was told it would be an easy read and that it really would be helpful. Frankly, it hasn't been a very easy read for me. Throughout the book I have learned things about myself that I really didn't care to know. They have been a little painful in fact.
I learned that I push myself to the point of exhaustion because I feel like I have a need to prove myself because I do not have a college degree.
I learned that I push myself because I feel like I am indispensable. I thought the work couldn't not be done without me.
I learned that I push myself because I am avoiding dealing with things that are difficult in my life.
Wow... I hope you didn't mind the honesty!
The book I am reading is Leading On Empty by Wayne Cordeiro. The best thing I learned from the book....
When we rest, we learn that God can go on and do His work without us... we learn that if you take the time to deal with personal issues in your life, your work for the Lord is much more effective... we learn that the Lord can use anyone, even those who do not have extensive higher education. The books says it this way... We return with a humble heart.
I know now that I always want to approach the Lord's work with a humble heart. Even if you are not working in the ministry, this applies to you too. Remember that Lord is the one who has gifted you with the abilities to do your job. Take the day of rest He has commanded and return rest, reinvigorated and most of all humble and you can do great things in the name of the Lord.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
1, 2, 3 JUMP!!
It has been a little more then 5 years since my husband and I took our "leap." It has been very similar to what I imagine (because I have never done it) it would be like to bungee jump.
First, you make the tough decision to make the jump. Then you prepare by climbing and then getting all your strapping and such ready. Once you are all strapped in and ready to go you ease over to the edge, take a deep breath and leap. Woo Hoooooo! You are flying high now! Oh.... now we are falling. Man, that ground is approaching FAST! Wow. I'm slowing down. Maybe I won't plow face first into the ground! Sweet! We are climbing again... I'm on top of the world again. Uh... I'm falling again... Will this up and down ever end?
You know... the up and down thing doesn't really end. It becomes more gentle as life goes on, but make no mistake. After you take the leap, it isn't going to only be high flying from that point on. If you look at the picture I have included you see that at the point this photo was taken... this guy was just kind of hanging there. He made the leap and he is probably pretty confident still... Once the fall starts and that ground is coming at him fast and hard, I bet the fear starts to creep in. His saving grace??? The bungee cord. When you make the leap and the fall starts... What is your saving grace? Is God your life bungee cord?
If He is, you can make the leap and be totally confident when the fall comes that you have the life saving hand of God holding you during the entire fall. God has been there the whole time of our ups and downs. It hasn't been easy... in fact this was the hardest thing we have ever done. Have I ever regretted the leap? No. Not once. Even in the lowest points, we are in a much better place for our family then we were ever in before. I know my up and down moments aren't over, but I'm not scared, concerned, worried, stressed or anything else. Why? Because of God. I know He is there and that is all I need.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Suprise... It is not all about YOU!
Philippians 2:3... Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.
When thinking about this passage of scripture it brought to mind an episode of Friends where the group challenged Phoebe. They told her it was impossible to do something good for someone without getting something out of it for yourself. Of course she was bound and determined to prove them wrong. It was a pretty funny episode of Phoebe trying all kinds of things only to find out that when you help someone somehow you always benefit in the end.
The group was right... you always get something out of it... even if it is just a good feeling in your heart. What I want to know is did you do it just to get something out of it for yourself? I think our intentions at the onset of a "good deed" are what matters the most. We need to do all things for the glory of God, not the glory of me! If you are expecting a pat on the back or some sort of recognition then you have done this good thing for the wrong reasons.
So I challenge you... Put Christ first then look at others through His eyes and put their concerns in front of your own and do it ALL for the glory of God!
When thinking about this passage of scripture it brought to mind an episode of Friends where the group challenged Phoebe. They told her it was impossible to do something good for someone without getting something out of it for yourself. Of course she was bound and determined to prove them wrong. It was a pretty funny episode of Phoebe trying all kinds of things only to find out that when you help someone somehow you always benefit in the end.
The group was right... you always get something out of it... even if it is just a good feeling in your heart. What I want to know is did you do it just to get something out of it for yourself? I think our intentions at the onset of a "good deed" are what matters the most. We need to do all things for the glory of God, not the glory of me! If you are expecting a pat on the back or some sort of recognition then you have done this good thing for the wrong reasons.
So I challenge you... Put Christ first then look at others through His eyes and put their concerns in front of your own and do it ALL for the glory of God!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Is Your Enemy Close Enough to Kiss You?
Mark 14:43-46
Just as he was speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, appeared. With him was a crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests, the teachers of the law, and the elders.
Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him and lead him away under guard.” Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Rabbi!” and kissed him. The men seized Jesus and arrested him.
I attended a conference a couple of years ago where Bishop TD Jakes spoke. It was a message for church leaders. He told us the story of Judas and reminded us that our enemy would always be close enough to kiss us. That is a little unsettling don't you think? But think about it... Satan is always at work in your life. You may not see him directly, but he is working to put obstacles in your way... the wrong people in your life. While these people in our lives may not be as obviously deceitful as Judas, the wrong people in your life can lead you down a path not chosen for you by God.
What happens when you find yourself surrounded by the wrong people? How do you even know they are the wrong people? Unfortunately we don't have humanly wisdom equal to the Divine wisdom Jesus had in Mark 14:18 but we do have the power of prayer. God calls us to walk on the path of righteousness (Proverbs 2:20) and to do that we must fully rely on Him, His Word and His Wisdom. Bathe your life in prayer. Ask the Lord to show you His way, His people, His path.
If you find yourself struggling spiritually, pray for the Lord to surround you with His friends so there is no room for the enemy to get close enough to kiss you!
Just as he was speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, appeared. With him was a crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests, the teachers of the law, and the elders.
Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him and lead him away under guard.” Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Rabbi!” and kissed him. The men seized Jesus and arrested him.
I attended a conference a couple of years ago where Bishop TD Jakes spoke. It was a message for church leaders. He told us the story of Judas and reminded us that our enemy would always be close enough to kiss us. That is a little unsettling don't you think? But think about it... Satan is always at work in your life. You may not see him directly, but he is working to put obstacles in your way... the wrong people in your life. While these people in our lives may not be as obviously deceitful as Judas, the wrong people in your life can lead you down a path not chosen for you by God.
What happens when you find yourself surrounded by the wrong people? How do you even know they are the wrong people? Unfortunately we don't have humanly wisdom equal to the Divine wisdom Jesus had in Mark 14:18 but we do have the power of prayer. God calls us to walk on the path of righteousness (Proverbs 2:20) and to do that we must fully rely on Him, His Word and His Wisdom. Bathe your life in prayer. Ask the Lord to show you His way, His people, His path.
If you find yourself struggling spiritually, pray for the Lord to surround you with His friends so there is no room for the enemy to get close enough to kiss you!
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
And we are walking...
I had lunch with a good friend last week. She has been going through a difficult season in her life. You know... you can always tell the true character of a person when they are going through hard times in life. It was (and always has been) very clear to me that my friend fully relies on the strength of the Lord every moment of every day. She was telling me about a devotion she had read recently and when she brought it up it reminded me that I too had seen this before and had forgotten about it. I hope she doesn't mind, but I haven't stopped thinking about it since our conversation and well... I feel like this is something I need to write about.
Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
The devotion my friend read was Joel Osteen's. He is a great man of God and a much better writer then I am so bear with me as I give you my take.
Let's focus on the action word in this scripture... WALK. If I am in the valley of the shadow of death, I'm certainly not going to just hang out there and set up camp. I can promise you I am moving on as quickly as I can. But that isn't what a lot of us do. When we are in the valley, we just sit there and expect someone to come along and pick us up and get us out of there. Not happening my friends! You have to get up and get moving. God will help you get through the valley, but you have to put one foot in front of the other and start walking. This very same verse says that we will fear no evil because God will comfort us. So... What fear is keeping you in the valley? What has you so afraid that you can't even start walking? I can promise you this... It isn't anything the Lord can't help you overcome.
Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
The devotion my friend read was Joel Osteen's. He is a great man of God and a much better writer then I am so bear with me as I give you my take.
Let's focus on the action word in this scripture... WALK. If I am in the valley of the shadow of death, I'm certainly not going to just hang out there and set up camp. I can promise you I am moving on as quickly as I can. But that isn't what a lot of us do. When we are in the valley, we just sit there and expect someone to come along and pick us up and get us out of there. Not happening my friends! You have to get up and get moving. God will help you get through the valley, but you have to put one foot in front of the other and start walking. This very same verse says that we will fear no evil because God will comfort us. So... What fear is keeping you in the valley? What has you so afraid that you can't even start walking? I can promise you this... It isn't anything the Lord can't help you overcome.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
How Does Your Garden Grow?
I'm not sure that someone didn't secretly poured excessive amounts of Miracle Grow on our garden while my husband and I were gone on our anniversary trip. When we came home we were over run with Zucchini and we were only gone a couple of days.
Not that I am against good garden production but it did get me to thinking... What happens to our spiritual health when we leave it unattended? If you ignore it, Satan can get into your "garden" and over run it with weeds. Our spiritual health is an every day kind of thing. We cannot give it a little care here and there. We have to be in our "garden" nurturing, educating, growing and tending EVERY single day.
What are you doing to maintain and grow your own spiritual health? Are you reading God's Word every day? What else are you reading? Are you going to classes? Are you in a small group? Let me know. I would love to talk about what is going on in your lives.
Not that I am against good garden production but it did get me to thinking... What happens to our spiritual health when we leave it unattended? If you ignore it, Satan can get into your "garden" and over run it with weeds. Our spiritual health is an every day kind of thing. We cannot give it a little care here and there. We have to be in our "garden" nurturing, educating, growing and tending EVERY single day.
What are you doing to maintain and grow your own spiritual health? Are you reading God's Word every day? What else are you reading? Are you going to classes? Are you in a small group? Let me know. I would love to talk about what is going on in your lives.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Faith in myself?
Jeremiah 17: 5-8
5 This is what the Lord says:
“Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who depends on flesh for his strength and whose heart turns away from the Lord.
6 He will be like a bush in the wastelands; he will not see prosperity when it comes. He will dwell in the parched places of the desert, in a salt land where no one lives.
7 “But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.
8 He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.”
You know... sometimes when Pastor Steve is preaching I feel like he wrote his sermon just for me. Well... I think God must have His hand in www.YouVersion.com because Jeremiah 17 was for me today! This was a passage on the list for my daily reading plan today.
Has anyone ever told you to have faith in yourself when you are up against some tough odds? I know I have said it plenty of times.
So... things are trucking along at a pretty good pace. Things are going well, kids are behaving, bills are being paid and then it happens... You know what it is. LIFE. I know. What was life circumstances thinking when it had to go put its ugly head in the middle of your beautifully orchestrated plans? Now you have struggle, fights, pain, and hurt. Hmmm... What to do? What to do? I know! You can fix it. You have a plan. You have faith in your own abilities. Right?
Well... Think again! Jeremiah 17:5 says cursed is the one who depends on flesh for his strength! What? I shouldn't depend on my own abilities? Didn't God give me these abilities and talents? Yes, however... your abilities and talents are useless if you are not fully depending on God as your complete strength. Trying to use your abilities without the guidance and strength from God will have you running on a treadmill. Yeah, you are running and you are sweating, but you really aren't getting anywhere.
I personally want to be like the tree planted by the water. I want to have no fears when life's troubles come my way. I want to always "bear fruit" for the Lord even when my life is in turmoil. The only way I can do that is to trust in the Lord... not by having faith in myself!
5 This is what the Lord says:
“Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who depends on flesh for his strength and whose heart turns away from the Lord.
6 He will be like a bush in the wastelands; he will not see prosperity when it comes. He will dwell in the parched places of the desert, in a salt land where no one lives.
7 “But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.
8 He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.”
You know... sometimes when Pastor Steve is preaching I feel like he wrote his sermon just for me. Well... I think God must have His hand in www.YouVersion.com because Jeremiah 17 was for me today! This was a passage on the list for my daily reading plan today.
Has anyone ever told you to have faith in yourself when you are up against some tough odds? I know I have said it plenty of times.
So... things are trucking along at a pretty good pace. Things are going well, kids are behaving, bills are being paid and then it happens... You know what it is. LIFE. I know. What was life circumstances thinking when it had to go put its ugly head in the middle of your beautifully orchestrated plans? Now you have struggle, fights, pain, and hurt. Hmmm... What to do? What to do? I know! You can fix it. You have a plan. You have faith in your own abilities. Right?
Well... Think again! Jeremiah 17:5 says cursed is the one who depends on flesh for his strength! What? I shouldn't depend on my own abilities? Didn't God give me these abilities and talents? Yes, however... your abilities and talents are useless if you are not fully depending on God as your complete strength. Trying to use your abilities without the guidance and strength from God will have you running on a treadmill. Yeah, you are running and you are sweating, but you really aren't getting anywhere.
I personally want to be like the tree planted by the water. I want to have no fears when life's troubles come my way. I want to always "bear fruit" for the Lord even when my life is in turmoil. The only way I can do that is to trust in the Lord... not by having faith in myself!
Monday, July 20, 2009
NO!
Tonight I struggled with my teenage children really feeling like they could just tell my husband and I what they will and won't do. Clayton needs to get a hat for his job he has coming up. He is going to be working outside in a corn field all day for about 3 - 4 weeks. He needs to get a hat to protect his face and neck. We were at a sporting goods store tonight and he kept telling us he wasn't going to wear a hat. At some point in the store he had to have a reality check and learned that he would wear a hat even if he didn't want to.
It got me thinking on the way home. How many times have we had God tell us what we were going to do and we threw a temper tantrum and said no. Ha... I know... Imagine telling God no... I'm not going to do that! But we do it all the time and have done it for a long time.
Adam and Eve said no in their actions... Genesis 3:6 When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.
The Iseralites did it a lot... Judges 10:6 Again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the LORD...
Jonah said no... big time! Jonah 1:2 “Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.”
3 But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord.
Of course saying no to what God wanted really never works out in your favor... Although God can always make the choices we humans make work out in His favor. Wouldn't it be easier to just do what He wants in the first place? Now if I could just make my teenagers understand that!
It got me thinking on the way home. How many times have we had God tell us what we were going to do and we threw a temper tantrum and said no. Ha... I know... Imagine telling God no... I'm not going to do that! But we do it all the time and have done it for a long time.
Adam and Eve said no in their actions... Genesis 3:6 When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.
The Iseralites did it a lot... Judges 10:6 Again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the LORD...
Jonah said no... big time! Jonah 1:2 “Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.”
3 But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord.
Of course saying no to what God wanted really never works out in your favor... Although God can always make the choices we humans make work out in His favor. Wouldn't it be easier to just do what He wants in the first place? Now if I could just make my teenagers understand that!
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Grace
2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.
This scripture came to mind this morning. I'm not sure why, but it was just something that was bouncing around in my mind as I was getting ready to head out for the day. "My grace is sufficient..." I didn't think much about it and honestly I still am not sure why the Lord laid it on my mind. I do know this... He put it there for a reason and He knows why. I'm good with that. In fact, I'm blessed by it.
If we are listening, God is there... giving us the words that will carry us through those rough bumps in the road called life. Little whispers or perhaps that song that you can't seem to get out of your mind. How often have you woke up with a tune in your head and you aren't sure why. Maybe it was a hymn that you haven't sung in years or worship song you sung in church weeks ago.
I do know this... when I hit that bump in the road that is surely headed my way. I bet I remember 2 Corinthians 12:9 and press on towards the glory God has for me!
This scripture came to mind this morning. I'm not sure why, but it was just something that was bouncing around in my mind as I was getting ready to head out for the day. "My grace is sufficient..." I didn't think much about it and honestly I still am not sure why the Lord laid it on my mind. I do know this... He put it there for a reason and He knows why. I'm good with that. In fact, I'm blessed by it.
If we are listening, God is there... giving us the words that will carry us through those rough bumps in the road called life. Little whispers or perhaps that song that you can't seem to get out of your mind. How often have you woke up with a tune in your head and you aren't sure why. Maybe it was a hymn that you haven't sung in years or worship song you sung in church weeks ago.
I do know this... when I hit that bump in the road that is surely headed my way. I bet I remember 2 Corinthians 12:9 and press on towards the glory God has for me!
Monday, July 13, 2009
Failure
What is it about failure that scares us so much?
Does experiencing failure cripple you?
I know that when I try something and fail at it, I can't stop thinking about how I let people down... How disappointed I am in myself. I think that maybe I shouldn't even be in my chosen profession. A "What was I thinking" kind of thing! It takes me quite a while to be able to look back on the failure and see the lessons that I have learned. What a shame that I waste so much time dwelling on what I did wrong instead of focusing on what I learned.
This past weekend Pastor Steve preached a message called Water Walkers (you can watch it here beginning July 14). The sermon covered Matthew 14:22-32. You know it... when Peter walked on water. The one statement Pastor Steve made that is still ringing around in my head... "I would rather fail trying to do something great for God then to succeed doing nothing for God." Wow! That was a lesson I needed to learn. What am I so afraid of? Getting in trouble with the boss? Letting my friends & family down? Disappointing myself? How much more of a letdown, disappointment and failure would I be if I never tried anything? What purpose would I hold?
So I wonder... Are you willing to get out of the boat like Peter did? Are you ready to walk on water? Stop identifying the phrase "walk on water" with someone who is perfect and let's start identifying "walk on water" with someone who is willing to step out of the boat on faith!
Does experiencing failure cripple you?
I know that when I try something and fail at it, I can't stop thinking about how I let people down... How disappointed I am in myself. I think that maybe I shouldn't even be in my chosen profession. A "What was I thinking" kind of thing! It takes me quite a while to be able to look back on the failure and see the lessons that I have learned. What a shame that I waste so much time dwelling on what I did wrong instead of focusing on what I learned.
This past weekend Pastor Steve preached a message called Water Walkers (you can watch it here beginning July 14). The sermon covered Matthew 14:22-32. You know it... when Peter walked on water. The one statement Pastor Steve made that is still ringing around in my head... "I would rather fail trying to do something great for God then to succeed doing nothing for God." Wow! That was a lesson I needed to learn. What am I so afraid of? Getting in trouble with the boss? Letting my friends & family down? Disappointing myself? How much more of a letdown, disappointment and failure would I be if I never tried anything? What purpose would I hold?
So I wonder... Are you willing to get out of the boat like Peter did? Are you ready to walk on water? Stop identifying the phrase "walk on water" with someone who is perfect and let's start identifying "walk on water" with someone who is willing to step out of the boat on faith!
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Joy
I have been on and off the Internet all day on YouVersion looking up what the Bible says about joy. I'm not sure why I had to keep reading and looking it up, but when you feel like the Lord is pressing you to read something... YOU DO IT!
Psalm 43:4 Then will I go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight.
I will praise you with the harp, O God, my God.
My joy and delight is in God. I love that I can go to Him even in my sorrow, pain, hurt, anger and find joy.
Psalm 100:2 Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.
The Lord wants us to come to Him in joy. How could we not? What great joy it brings my heart to know I can come to Him in my brokenness and He readily accepts me, loves me and heals me!
1 Chronicles 16:27 Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy in his dwelling place.
Where do you seek the joy in your life? Have you been searching yet not finding it? Seek the Lord and you will find "strength and joy in his dwelling place."
Psalm 43:4 Then will I go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight.
I will praise you with the harp, O God, my God.
My joy and delight is in God. I love that I can go to Him even in my sorrow, pain, hurt, anger and find joy.
Psalm 100:2 Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.
The Lord wants us to come to Him in joy. How could we not? What great joy it brings my heart to know I can come to Him in my brokenness and He readily accepts me, loves me and heals me!
1 Chronicles 16:27 Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy in his dwelling place.
Where do you seek the joy in your life? Have you been searching yet not finding it? Seek the Lord and you will find "strength and joy in his dwelling place."
Monday, July 6, 2009
Rough Roads
I really hate to drive on most of I25 in Colorado. It is a very rough ride. Most of the time, I would rather take one of the side county roads. Basically, I am willing to go miles out of my way to avoid the bumpy ride.
So... What do you do when your own choices or actions have led you to the bumpy part of the road called life? Sometimes there are no nice smooth county roads to escape to. Your only escape is sorrow and repentance.
2 Corinthians 7: 8-10
8Even if I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it. Though I did regret it—I see that my letter hurt you, but only for a little while— 9yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us. 10Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.
In Paul's letter to the Corinthians he is explaining that even if his letter caused them sorrow he doesn't regret it because it has led the Corinthians to repentance.
If you are on a bumpy road because of a choice you have made, know that "Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret..." How wonderful is our Lord!
So... What do you do when your own choices or actions have led you to the bumpy part of the road called life? Sometimes there are no nice smooth county roads to escape to. Your only escape is sorrow and repentance.
2 Corinthians 7: 8-10
8Even if I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it. Though I did regret it—I see that my letter hurt you, but only for a little while— 9yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us. 10Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.
In Paul's letter to the Corinthians he is explaining that even if his letter caused them sorrow he doesn't regret it because it has led the Corinthians to repentance.
If you are on a bumpy road because of a choice you have made, know that "Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret..." How wonderful is our Lord!
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Understanding
Isaiah 40:28
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.
My favorite part of that verse is “…and his understanding no one can fathom.” Praise the Lord for that. I can’t tell you how many times I go through life and say to myself, “I don’t understand what is going on!” Do you ever feel that way? Like you are totally lost and you’re so confused as to why life has taken the turn it has. Rejoice! The Lord knows and He understands!
The family of my son’s girlfriend experienced a loss recently. Her uncle’s baby boy passed away unexpectedly. As you can imagine, the entire family is wrecked with grief. Even Clay’s girlfriend posted on her Facebook account a cry out against God for the loss. She couldn't believe God would inflict that kind of pain on a family. She is unable to understand why this happened.
If you are lost in your own lack of understanding, please know that God does know what is happening, why it is happening and if you allow the Lord to lead you… He will walk you through it.
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.
My favorite part of that verse is “…and his understanding no one can fathom.” Praise the Lord for that. I can’t tell you how many times I go through life and say to myself, “I don’t understand what is going on!” Do you ever feel that way? Like you are totally lost and you’re so confused as to why life has taken the turn it has. Rejoice! The Lord knows and He understands!
The family of my son’s girlfriend experienced a loss recently. Her uncle’s baby boy passed away unexpectedly. As you can imagine, the entire family is wrecked with grief. Even Clay’s girlfriend posted on her Facebook account a cry out against God for the loss. She couldn't believe God would inflict that kind of pain on a family. She is unable to understand why this happened.
If you are lost in your own lack of understanding, please know that God does know what is happening, why it is happening and if you allow the Lord to lead you… He will walk you through it.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Family
This has been one of the first weekends in a very long time that I have felt like I really was able to enjoy my family. My husband wasn't working, my kids were home for the most part, and we had things to do that kept us around the house and when we weren't at home we were together... for the most part! I know I keep saying "for the most part." You have to understand I have teenagers. I can't force them to spend an entire weekend with the "parents" because they think that might make their skin fall off. Clayton's girlfriend lives in a town about 45 minutes away. She spent a good portion of the day with us on Saturday. Dylan spent a good part of the day at the house but spent the night with a friend. Sunday we all went to church and then Dylan spent the afternoon with a friend and Bobby and I picked up Clayton's girlfriend and headed up to the mountains. I call that a family weekend success!
Doesn't it seem like these types of weekends are getting to be more of the unique occasions? What is it that is preventing this? What is it that keeps intruding in our lives so that family time is a rare occasion?
Is it something intruding or is it our priorities are out of whack? I know what my problem is... Priorities... What about you?
Doesn't it seem like these types of weekends are getting to be more of the unique occasions? What is it that is preventing this? What is it that keeps intruding in our lives so that family time is a rare occasion?
Is it something intruding or is it our priorities are out of whack? I know what my problem is... Priorities... What about you?
Monday, May 18, 2009
Committments and Good Intentions
Pastor Steve just preached a sermon on Gideon's 300. Hoping to give our congregation an uplifting message that we each can rise to be a "mighty warrior" just as Gideon did. It was a wonderful message and even though I was running switcher for that weekend, I found myself saying, "yes," "amen," "uh-huh" in the headset throughout the message. (Sorry about that camera crew!)
It is easy to sit and listen and feel like Pastor Steve is talking about me... like he somehow just wrote the sermon for me. I know many folks who have told me the same thing. However, I do believe that Pastor Steve is a gifted speaker and is very in tuned to God and delivers the exact message God would have for each of us to hear. So here is my question... why why why is it that we can hear it and know it is for us and still ignore it?
My thought on the question... We are lazy. We are full of good intentions and no follow through. We sit... hear... and choose to ignore. I don't want to be that way... do you?
What are you going to do about it? My plan... start with the basics. Take the highlights of the sermon and start with the basics in my life. If you start making small changes first... the fall out from that change will make the next one even easier. Don't believe me? I dare you to try it!
It is easy to sit and listen and feel like Pastor Steve is talking about me... like he somehow just wrote the sermon for me. I know many folks who have told me the same thing. However, I do believe that Pastor Steve is a gifted speaker and is very in tuned to God and delivers the exact message God would have for each of us to hear. So here is my question... why why why is it that we can hear it and know it is for us and still ignore it?
My thought on the question... We are lazy. We are full of good intentions and no follow through. We sit... hear... and choose to ignore. I don't want to be that way... do you?
What are you going to do about it? My plan... start with the basics. Take the highlights of the sermon and start with the basics in my life. If you start making small changes first... the fall out from that change will make the next one even easier. Don't believe me? I dare you to try it!
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Rabbits and Cockroaches
Does anyone else feel like life is moving a mach speed? It is nearly the middle of May already and I feel like I haven't even got a grip on what my goals are for this year. There are always so many plans and things that I want to accomplish and for some reason it always feels like life just keeps getting in the way. Something to distract me... to move my attention to something that seems more important at that particular time.
I wonder sometimes if it is Satan leading me on a rabbit chase to distract me from God's work. I recently read a book called "Killing Cockroaches" by Tony Morgan. I found my story so many times as I read through it. So... now that I know I have a problem with staying focused on the important items... What is it I need to improve in myself that will help me with my cockroach killing tendencies?
My first step... More time in God's Word. I think that is the best place I can start... What about you? Are you a cockroach killer? (read Tony's book to learn more about it). If you feel like you are always chasing rabbits... What are you going to do to maintain your focus on what is important?
I wonder sometimes if it is Satan leading me on a rabbit chase to distract me from God's work. I recently read a book called "Killing Cockroaches" by Tony Morgan. I found my story so many times as I read through it. So... now that I know I have a problem with staying focused on the important items... What is it I need to improve in myself that will help me with my cockroach killing tendencies?
My first step... More time in God's Word. I think that is the best place I can start... What about you? Are you a cockroach killer? (read Tony's book to learn more about it). If you feel like you are always chasing rabbits... What are you going to do to maintain your focus on what is important?
Monday, May 4, 2009
Life
This past week has been a difficult one for me and for my family. My father passed away on April 25. At the time of his passing, my mother was in a rehabilitation hospital mending after knee replacement surgery. She was on the phone with my dad while my father waited for the ambulance to arrive. They were able to tell each other how much they loved each other.
I know we have all been told to make sure you don't go to bed mad... kiss a loved one good-bye every time you leave each other, etc. I just don't think that is something that is truly practiced. I know I have been lax in following those oh so important "life instructions" and I plan to make a point of fixing that in my life and would encourage you to do the same.
I'm not the kind of person that is overly sappy, or really very sentimental, but I cannot imagine loosing a loved one only to realize the last time I saw them, I didn't make them believe they were important to me.
So...
Kiss them good-bye
Tell them you love them
Hold them tightly
Do your best to not go to bed mad... even if you can't resolve the problem. Tell them you love them and you will work out the issue the next day.
There... I gave you my sappy speech... thanks for listening!
I know we have all been told to make sure you don't go to bed mad... kiss a loved one good-bye every time you leave each other, etc. I just don't think that is something that is truly practiced. I know I have been lax in following those oh so important "life instructions" and I plan to make a point of fixing that in my life and would encourage you to do the same.
I'm not the kind of person that is overly sappy, or really very sentimental, but I cannot imagine loosing a loved one only to realize the last time I saw them, I didn't make them believe they were important to me.
So...
Kiss them good-bye
Tell them you love them
Hold them tightly
Do your best to not go to bed mad... even if you can't resolve the problem. Tell them you love them and you will work out the issue the next day.
There... I gave you my sappy speech... thanks for listening!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Stand up!
Things have been a little crazy lately. The economy is crashing and shows little, if any, signs of recovery. Families are being taxed with the added pressures of job loss, pay cuts, increased bills, etc. Who could expect anything less then for us to crumble under the weight of all these burdens.
Ah... but those who walk with the Lord are able to stand and walk. The burdens are light because the Lord carries them for you. I say to you who are weary and heavily burden.... to cast your concerns on the Lord and STAND UP. He will carry your burdens for you so that you can walk confidently through the tough economic times and KNOW that He will provide for all of your needs.
You may think it is easier said then done... but pray, pray and pray again. You will find your shoulder's are lighter, your mind is clear and your future to be bright again... if you can give it to the Lord and walk with Him.
Ah... but those who walk with the Lord are able to stand and walk. The burdens are light because the Lord carries them for you. I say to you who are weary and heavily burden.... to cast your concerns on the Lord and STAND UP. He will carry your burdens for you so that you can walk confidently through the tough economic times and KNOW that He will provide for all of your needs.
You may think it is easier said then done... but pray, pray and pray again. You will find your shoulder's are lighter, your mind is clear and your future to be bright again... if you can give it to the Lord and walk with Him.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Couples Retreat
Wow... My husband and I are home and settled from the great weekend we spent at the couple's retreat hosted by our church. I twittered all the sessions, but I thought I would make it easy for those of you who aren't on twitter to get a "picture" of what went on and what was discussed. It was a great time and a wealth of information was passed on that will greatly impact the marriages of the nearly 50 couples that attended... So here it is... enjoy! (The trick with Twitter is to read from the bottom up!)
Praise God for a wonderful weekend now to head home to see my boys.
about 5 hours ago from txt
Step 3... Allow the Lord to help you. Philippians 4:13
about 5 hours ago from txt
God's plan for the husband. Be leading, be cherishing, be pampering.
about 5 hours ago from txt
God's plan for the wife. Be understanding, be supportive, be honoring.
about 6 hours ago from txt
Step 2... Allow the Lord to lead you. Luke 9:23
about 6 hours ago from txt
Step 1... Allow the Lord to change you. 2 Corinthians 5:17
about 6 hours ago from txt
What do you have to do for the Lord to be the builder of your home? Three steps...
about 6 hours ago from txt
Let the Lord build your house... Psalm 127:1
about 6 hours ago from txt
Session three ... Being one with your Lord. LAST SESSION!
about 6 hours ago from txt
And that's all she wrote... Good night all.
about 16 hours ago from txt
Playing pool with friends... I stink at pool!
about 17 hours ago from txt
http://twitpic.com/3kt2m - Crew of 'retreaters' having fun!
about 17 hours ago from TwitPic
Get back to the basics - genesis 2:18-25
about 19 hours ago from txt
Needs of humans... Emotional, physical, spiritual, and social.
about 19 hours ago from txt
Just took a partner awareness quiz... We did pretty good!
about 19 hours ago from txt
How has your parent's marriage impacted your marriage?
about 19 hours ago from txt
Tonight we are studying marriage personalities.
about 20 hours ago from txt
Presented pastor steve and rebecca with a small gift in recognition of their 31st wedding anniversary.
about 20 hours ago from txt
Session two about to start... Being one with your spouse!
about 20 hours ago from txt
Hanging with friends enjoying doing nothing.
about 22 hours ago from txt
Game time! Meeting some other couples in the fireside room for some fun!
about 23 hours ago from txt
Lunch with my honey... Its good to spend this time together.
11:58 AM Apr 18th from txt
Just had breakfast with everyone and we are off for free time. Heading to the mall for some shopping.
9:49 AM Apr 18th from txt
Don't stop at the plant (problem) you gotta dig up the roots.
9:36 PM Apr 17th from txt
Mark 5:1-20... Change is possible with the Lord's help!
9:22 PM Apr 17th from txt
Beavers are here to keep us in order!
9:09 PM Apr 17th from txt
Lots of golden retrievers here... Lots of encouragement gonna happen this weekend.
9:01 PM Apr 17th from txt
Not a lot of otters here... Guess that means no big parties this weekend!
8:57 PM Apr 17th from txt
I'm a lion...anyone shocked by that?
8:40 PM Apr 17th from txt
Trent smalley personality profiles... Are you a lion, otter, beaver or golden retriever?
8:26 PM Apr 17th from txt
50 couples booked 48 made it thru the snow!
8:05 PM Apr 17th from txt
First session about to start ... Most everyone made it thru snow so far.
7:59 PM Apr 17th from txt
Meet and greet time ... Lots of fun!
Praise God for a wonderful weekend now to head home to see my boys.
about 5 hours ago from txt
Step 3... Allow the Lord to help you. Philippians 4:13
about 5 hours ago from txt
God's plan for the husband. Be leading, be cherishing, be pampering.
about 5 hours ago from txt
God's plan for the wife. Be understanding, be supportive, be honoring.
about 6 hours ago from txt
Step 2... Allow the Lord to lead you. Luke 9:23
about 6 hours ago from txt
Step 1... Allow the Lord to change you. 2 Corinthians 5:17
about 6 hours ago from txt
What do you have to do for the Lord to be the builder of your home? Three steps...
about 6 hours ago from txt
Let the Lord build your house... Psalm 127:1
about 6 hours ago from txt
Session three ... Being one with your Lord. LAST SESSION!
about 6 hours ago from txt
And that's all she wrote... Good night all.
about 16 hours ago from txt
Playing pool with friends... I stink at pool!
about 17 hours ago from txt
http://twitpic.com/3kt2m - Crew of 'retreaters' having fun!
about 17 hours ago from TwitPic
Get back to the basics - genesis 2:18-25
about 19 hours ago from txt
Needs of humans... Emotional, physical, spiritual, and social.
about 19 hours ago from txt
Just took a partner awareness quiz... We did pretty good!
about 19 hours ago from txt
How has your parent's marriage impacted your marriage?
about 19 hours ago from txt
Tonight we are studying marriage personalities.
about 20 hours ago from txt
Presented pastor steve and rebecca with a small gift in recognition of their 31st wedding anniversary.
about 20 hours ago from txt
Session two about to start... Being one with your spouse!
about 20 hours ago from txt
Hanging with friends enjoying doing nothing.
about 22 hours ago from txt
Game time! Meeting some other couples in the fireside room for some fun!
about 23 hours ago from txt
Lunch with my honey... Its good to spend this time together.
11:58 AM Apr 18th from txt
Just had breakfast with everyone and we are off for free time. Heading to the mall for some shopping.
9:49 AM Apr 18th from txt
Don't stop at the plant (problem) you gotta dig up the roots.
9:36 PM Apr 17th from txt
Mark 5:1-20... Change is possible with the Lord's help!
9:22 PM Apr 17th from txt
Beavers are here to keep us in order!
9:09 PM Apr 17th from txt
Lots of golden retrievers here... Lots of encouragement gonna happen this weekend.
9:01 PM Apr 17th from txt
Not a lot of otters here... Guess that means no big parties this weekend!
8:57 PM Apr 17th from txt
I'm a lion...anyone shocked by that?
8:40 PM Apr 17th from txt
Trent smalley personality profiles... Are you a lion, otter, beaver or golden retriever?
8:26 PM Apr 17th from txt
50 couples booked 48 made it thru the snow!
8:05 PM Apr 17th from txt
First session about to start ... Most everyone made it thru snow so far.
7:59 PM Apr 17th from txt
Meet and greet time ... Lots of fun!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Whew!
Wow... I still feel like I am just recovering from Easter services this past weekend. I miss just being able to enjoy these days and not work. These days are so important yet... since I joined the ministry 5 years ago, I have come to see them from such a different angle. The holy days now are more about an increased opportunity to meet people who only come to church on Easter and Christmas and make "THE" presentation. It has to be good, easy to hear, and impacting... No pressure there!
The work is intense and well planned. Words, artwork, music is all chosen carefully. The goal is a flawless service. Not flawless because we want the unchurched to see us as perfect (which we are not), but because we want the unchurched to see, hear and feel everything we have for them. No distractions. Nothing to divert their attention.
I miss just going to church and worshipping the sacrifice on Good Friday and celebrating on Easter Sunday. However, while those things are wonderful and amazing... nothing beats hearing the stories that are coming around this week about the life changes that are happening in the folks that came to our church over the weekend. Those stories are filling the void in my heart for the worship and celebration I feel like I am missing. The work... the very hard work we did was more the worth it! Praise be to God!
Log on to the church website and watch our Easter Services. They are all there... Palm Sunday, Good Friday and Easter Services!
The work is intense and well planned. Words, artwork, music is all chosen carefully. The goal is a flawless service. Not flawless because we want the unchurched to see us as perfect (which we are not), but because we want the unchurched to see, hear and feel everything we have for them. No distractions. Nothing to divert their attention.
I miss just going to church and worshipping the sacrifice on Good Friday and celebrating on Easter Sunday. However, while those things are wonderful and amazing... nothing beats hearing the stories that are coming around this week about the life changes that are happening in the folks that came to our church over the weekend. Those stories are filling the void in my heart for the worship and celebration I feel like I am missing. The work... the very hard work we did was more the worth it! Praise be to God!
Log on to the church website and watch our Easter Services. They are all there... Palm Sunday, Good Friday and Easter Services!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
PRESSURE
Public speaking has never really been my thing. I am much more of a behind the scenes kind of girl. My first major public speaking event was this past Christmas Eve. A Pastor at the church had to back out of his scheduled reading because his wife became ill at the last minute. Instead of rearranging the entire night, I volunteered to fill in for him. Wow... what was I thinking? We have three Christmas Eve services at our church. The first one was a bomb! I was so nervous. I made it through the reading just fine. I didn't stumble on my words or anything, but wow... you could hear my voice shaking. I tried so hard to take a deep breath and let it pass, but no chance! It was there for all to hear. Well, by the third service... I was a pro (haha that was a BIG joke). Although not a real pro, the voice warble was gone and I delivered my bit and felt pretty good about it.
Well, I'm on deck again. I guess I didn't blow it too bad and I have been assigned a reading for our Good Friday services. Man... the reading I was assigned (as is everyone else's) is phenomenal. Our Pastor is a tremendous writer and he really just blows me away. I guess I am feeling a tremendous amount of pressure because our Good Friday service is going to be amazing and I really don't want to be the one bad part! Well... preparation is usually my biggest pet peeves and I know that will ease my mind, but I'm heading to the scripture for my comfort. I know that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" so that is where I will put my worries! I honestly believe that when put under pressure the true character of a person is revealed and we are forced to fully rely on Christ. I don't want to let my Lord down.
What do you rely on or where do you turn when you are called to step outside of your comfort zone?
Well, I'm on deck again. I guess I didn't blow it too bad and I have been assigned a reading for our Good Friday services. Man... the reading I was assigned (as is everyone else's) is phenomenal. Our Pastor is a tremendous writer and he really just blows me away. I guess I am feeling a tremendous amount of pressure because our Good Friday service is going to be amazing and I really don't want to be the one bad part! Well... preparation is usually my biggest pet peeves and I know that will ease my mind, but I'm heading to the scripture for my comfort. I know that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" so that is where I will put my worries! I honestly believe that when put under pressure the true character of a person is revealed and we are forced to fully rely on Christ. I don't want to let my Lord down.
What do you rely on or where do you turn when you are called to step outside of your comfort zone?
Thursday, March 26, 2009
STORMS
Colorado weather. Such a funny thing. I got a little sunburn working in the yard Sunday afternoon. Today... a foot of snow! It is funny how the storms in our lives can come upon us so quickly... Just remember that our Lord is faithful to stay with us through each and every storm in our lives. He even knows about the storms way before we do! Have faith in the Lord and the storm will only be a minor bump in the road.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
True meaning of TRUST
Pastor preached this morning about truly trusting the Lord. His sermon spoke so closely to my heart. I went through the struggle not too long ago where I realized how much I don't need "things." I found myself getting angry when a promised raise didn't happen or when that bonus that "was coming" never came. It was like God slapped me across the face and reminded me that I really didn't NEED the pay increase or the bonus. I had been putting my faith in money and not the Lord. Things were changing where I worked and a good time to leave presented itself. So my husband and I did something that on occasion we wonder what we were thinking, but for the most part... was the best decision we ever made. We sold our house in Texas and left for Colorado. My brother lived in Northern Colorado and we had visited several times. We liked the area so that is where we went. Oh... and we didn't have jobs lined up. We left on faith. It just felt like that is where we were supposed to be.
It has been hard. Don't let me fool you. We struggled and it still isn't easy. I am not making near what I was making in Dallas and my husband still hasn't found a job he is truly happy with. HOWEVER... what we have found is a renewed faith and a renewed sense of peace in our life. The kids are in a MUCH better school... the town we live in is small... tight knit and peaceful. We live in a small house that fits our NEEDS not our wants. I absolutely love it. It is a wonderful small craftsman in the historic part of town with a wonderful front porch and friendly neighbors. My job is finally meaningful. I no longer work many hours away from my family on projects that only put money in someone elses pocket. My work is life changing and eternally impactful.
Don't get me wrong. I still have typical wants. I would love to have TWO bathrooms :-) and a new washer and dryer. I don't have to have them, but they would be nice! I just am so much happier with only worrying about the things I need and to make it even better... the Lord provides for those!
Just consider some small change in your life. Something small can make such a big impact.
It has been hard. Don't let me fool you. We struggled and it still isn't easy. I am not making near what I was making in Dallas and my husband still hasn't found a job he is truly happy with. HOWEVER... what we have found is a renewed faith and a renewed sense of peace in our life. The kids are in a MUCH better school... the town we live in is small... tight knit and peaceful. We live in a small house that fits our NEEDS not our wants. I absolutely love it. It is a wonderful small craftsman in the historic part of town with a wonderful front porch and friendly neighbors. My job is finally meaningful. I no longer work many hours away from my family on projects that only put money in someone elses pocket. My work is life changing and eternally impactful.
Don't get me wrong. I still have typical wants. I would love to have TWO bathrooms :-) and a new washer and dryer. I don't have to have them, but they would be nice! I just am so much happier with only worrying about the things I need and to make it even better... the Lord provides for those!
Just consider some small change in your life. Something small can make such a big impact.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Long week
This has been a tough week. I had one evening where I was home before dinner... the rest were 9pm or later. I wonder why those types of nights have to happen all at once? Have you ever noticed that? Even if it isn't just one event that occupies every night of the week, it ends up being several that converge on the same week? One kid has a sporting event one night... the other kid has a band event the next night... Wednesday night church and rehearsals... another night of sports/band/special service/ or worse multiple events at the same time... Before you know it... the week is GONE and your still wondering what happened!
Trying to convince myself that I am not Wonder Woman and cannot do it all has been my biggest challenge. I know I am not the only one who has such a hard time walking away from things when they are not finished! Where do you draw the line between your work ethics and your mental stability? I have to have time away to spend with my family, but when I am away from the work, I stress about what needs to get done. Oh what a vicious circle!
Balance... what an elusive achievement. Well... at least it is for me!
Trying to convince myself that I am not Wonder Woman and cannot do it all has been my biggest challenge. I know I am not the only one who has such a hard time walking away from things when they are not finished! Where do you draw the line between your work ethics and your mental stability? I have to have time away to spend with my family, but when I am away from the work, I stress about what needs to get done. Oh what a vicious circle!
Balance... what an elusive achievement. Well... at least it is for me!
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Time
Well.. it has been a while. I'm going to try to be better at this... HEY I think I have said that before.
Anyway... Here is the latest:
Clayton turns 16 next month. He will get his driver's license in June. Part of me can't wait, the other part says... DON'T LET HIM GET IT! I'm so proud of him. He always has to come to things on his own and when he does.. it is awesome. Clayton had been taking piano for a while and he is really good at it, but he was overwhelmed and undercommitted so he quit. Well... by the grace of God he has decided he wants to take lessons again. On top of that... his birthday present from his grand-parents and from us was a violin. Now we will find someone to give him lessons for that too. So... to keep you up to date... that means he plays the saxophone, piano, bass guitar and soon the violin! I'm extremely proud.
Dylan is 13... that is such a hard age... for EVERYONE! He is really finding out who he is and trying hard to define himself. I'm proud of him because he really works to be his own person and that is awesome. Dylan loves sports and wants to do it all! We just finished league basketball and have started school track. He is running hurdles and will also so shotput (is that how you spell it?). What I am most proud of is Dylan's sportsmanship... He really plays the game because he loves it and he encourages that among his teammates.
Bobby and I are doing well. Bobby still is hoping to find a job he can love, but until that time he gives it all to his current employer because we are just thankful he still has a job in these hard times. I love working at the church and have really found my calling. I'm so excited for all the fun challenges that come my way, but for any of you who think working for a church is a cushie - easy - cakewalk job... YOU ARE WRONG! I certainly had misconceptions about what it was like to work for a church! I have honestly never worked harder in my life.
That should catch you up and you should check back often. I promise to post around 1 - 3 times a week. See you soon!
Anyway... Here is the latest:
Clayton turns 16 next month. He will get his driver's license in June. Part of me can't wait, the other part says... DON'T LET HIM GET IT! I'm so proud of him. He always has to come to things on his own and when he does.. it is awesome. Clayton had been taking piano for a while and he is really good at it, but he was overwhelmed and undercommitted so he quit. Well... by the grace of God he has decided he wants to take lessons again. On top of that... his birthday present from his grand-parents and from us was a violin. Now we will find someone to give him lessons for that too. So... to keep you up to date... that means he plays the saxophone, piano, bass guitar and soon the violin! I'm extremely proud.
Dylan is 13... that is such a hard age... for EVERYONE! He is really finding out who he is and trying hard to define himself. I'm proud of him because he really works to be his own person and that is awesome. Dylan loves sports and wants to do it all! We just finished league basketball and have started school track. He is running hurdles and will also so shotput (is that how you spell it?). What I am most proud of is Dylan's sportsmanship... He really plays the game because he loves it and he encourages that among his teammates.
Bobby and I are doing well. Bobby still is hoping to find a job he can love, but until that time he gives it all to his current employer because we are just thankful he still has a job in these hard times. I love working at the church and have really found my calling. I'm so excited for all the fun challenges that come my way, but for any of you who think working for a church is a cushie - easy - cakewalk job... YOU ARE WRONG! I certainly had misconceptions about what it was like to work for a church! I have honestly never worked harder in my life.
That should catch you up and you should check back often. I promise to post around 1 - 3 times a week. See you soon!
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