Last weekend I had the awesome privledge of seeing my son and his friends at college. The weather turned out to be so beautiful that we decided on saturday to take a "little" hike up the mountain.
Now the original sight we wanted to see was only about a 15 minute hike...But Once we got there, my son's roomate asked if we wanted to get a "little more exercise and see more of the mountian. My son's roomate worked on the trails there and said he knew of a great spot that looked out over the mountain. It was such a beautiful day, so why not?
I soon found out why not....almost 2 hours later. I had lost feeling in my shins, thighs, and booty! I was sweaty, tired, and my mouth was so dry I could spit cotton. All I could see was the mountain in front of us, that kept climbing up! When we finally got to the top and it was really beautiful.
I wish I could say I drank it all in and enjoyed the majesty of nature and how creative God is! I can't, because all I could think of was getting down the mountain to sonic and getting a 44oz Cherry Limade...(it was happy hour!)
The next day I realized I had not allowed myself to enjoy the hike as much as I should have. I got great exercise, fresh air, and I did sleep like a baby that night. It had really been a great day, but I was not as prepared as I would have liked (like using the bathroom and bringing water) so I didn't get as much joy out of it, as I should have.
How many times have we done that in our life? God has the days planned for us. He says so in Psalms 139:16. He also says in 2 Timothy 3:17 "That using scriptures, the person who serves God will be capable, having all that is needed to do every good work."
Everyday God has something wonderful to show us, but we choose to sleep in, not open his word, so we feel so unprepared that we miss the adventure laid out before us. God has given us all we need in His Word and through the Holy Spirit living in us, that we have all we need to "Hike" through each day and enjoy it. Didn't God also say He came to give us life MORE abundantly!
I don't know about you, but I don't want to be at the end of life and realize I never fully enjoyed the view!
And Bryan I take back all the bad things I said about you...You can still be friends with Stephen! Love you man!
Friday, February 24, 2012
Saturday, February 11, 2012
PASTOR'S WIFE
I was on line and came aross these video's about being a Pastor's wife. They truly touched my heart. If you are a Pastor's Wife please know you are not alone. If you have ever wondered what it would be like to be a Pastor's wife then click on the link below and enjoy. There were 3 different video's, this one was my favorite.
http://vimeo.com/3733204
http://vimeo.com/3733204
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
MANDISA IS FREE!
I'm pretty sure Mandisa would say she is free in Christ. But, I'm actually talking about my Mandisa CD. If you have followed me on my blog you know I got my favorite CD stuck in the car CD player. I was slightly devastated, then it turned to annoyance, then it became a mission.
Every time I got in the car I'd, hit eject hoping the CD would pop out. Then I started hitting potholes on purpose so it might just pop out. Finally, I googled. (Yes, I googled)
Not that it was much help...At first. Everything said, "take it to the car dealer" or "Take it to a place that installs stereo equipment" Duh, I knew that. Finally one last entry I read said, "Take a thin knife and put tape on the end, backwards. (So it's sticky all the way around.) Hit eject and the CD will stick to the knife and you can pull it out!" Genius!!!!! ( I won't tell you the site was called "You might be a redneck...") JK
Well it worked! I am waking up to "A Good Morning" everyday this week! As always I had to stop and ask, " Is there a spiritual lesson in this?" THERE IS!!!!
I had read the google entry about the knife and tape several days ago. I just didn't try it, because I thought it was a little silly. Crazy really. When I was out of other options I had nothing to lose...Then I tried...and it worked.
How many times has God told me to do something? Something silly or even crazy. You know, send a card, call a friend, invite someone to lunch. OR Trust God and tithe when I have bills due and don't get paid till NEXT week. Apply for that job, Don't apply for that great job, write a blog, get on your knees and pray...in front of people!!! AWWWWWW
Just a few I have personally heard. Yet I hesitate or don't try because it makes No sense whatsoever.
You know I serve a God who asks crazy things of His people. "Be in the world NOT of the World. Love Your enemy as yourself" "Love Me with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength" "Be anxious for NOTHING" "Pray about EVERYTHING" oh the list goes on and on.
So maybe the next time I hear that voice, or feel that nudge from the Holy Spirit I will remember my favorite CD. I will remember how it got stuck and how I got it out and I will obey without hesitation, no matter how crazy it sounds.
I bet if I do it will make me "STRONGER"! (Oh I crack myself up!) hint listen to Mandisa CD
Every time I got in the car I'd, hit eject hoping the CD would pop out. Then I started hitting potholes on purpose so it might just pop out. Finally, I googled. (Yes, I googled)
Not that it was much help...At first. Everything said, "take it to the car dealer" or "Take it to a place that installs stereo equipment" Duh, I knew that. Finally one last entry I read said, "Take a thin knife and put tape on the end, backwards. (So it's sticky all the way around.) Hit eject and the CD will stick to the knife and you can pull it out!" Genius!!!!! ( I won't tell you the site was called "You might be a redneck...") JK
Well it worked! I am waking up to "A Good Morning" everyday this week! As always I had to stop and ask, " Is there a spiritual lesson in this?" THERE IS!!!!
I had read the google entry about the knife and tape several days ago. I just didn't try it, because I thought it was a little silly. Crazy really. When I was out of other options I had nothing to lose...Then I tried...and it worked.
How many times has God told me to do something? Something silly or even crazy. You know, send a card, call a friend, invite someone to lunch. OR Trust God and tithe when I have bills due and don't get paid till NEXT week. Apply for that job, Don't apply for that great job, write a blog, get on your knees and pray...in front of people!!! AWWWWWW
Just a few I have personally heard. Yet I hesitate or don't try because it makes No sense whatsoever.
You know I serve a God who asks crazy things of His people. "Be in the world NOT of the World. Love Your enemy as yourself" "Love Me with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength" "Be anxious for NOTHING" "Pray about EVERYTHING" oh the list goes on and on.
So maybe the next time I hear that voice, or feel that nudge from the Holy Spirit I will remember my favorite CD. I will remember how it got stuck and how I got it out and I will obey without hesitation, no matter how crazy it sounds.
I bet if I do it will make me "STRONGER"! (Oh I crack myself up!) hint listen to Mandisa CD
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
NO FRIENDS!
I am having a trip down memory lane this week. Why? Tomorrow my only son turns 21! (Happy Birthday if you are reading this Son.) I am not sure where the time went? Seriously. It seems like yesterday I was in labour and now he is officially a man.
It has sent my mind racing to where the time went, but also to all the moments that grew him into the godly man he has become. For example, the time he and his big sis were in the pool and she tried to baptize him, but told him he had to repent first. He exclaimed, "What is Repent?" To which she answered, "Because you are a sinner you need to say sorry to Jesus!". He yelled at the top of his 3 year old lungs, "I am not a sinner and if you say it again I will punch you in the mouth!" Awwww good times.
Thank goodness he did finally figure out he was a sinner and he did accept Jesus into his life.
Another defining moment was when we moved to New York.
He was a new 5th grader in a huge school. He was also a quiet kid and shy kid. (Man did he grow out of that. I will take credit...or blame for that one)
He had been in school 4 months and they were about to have Christmas Break. I had went up to the school to help with the class party and happened to pass by the lunch room. There were over 365 kids...all 5th graders eating lunch. It was crazy loud with kids yelling and teachers trying keep everyone in their seats. I peeked in to see my son, when I noticed he was sitting all by himself. Not a soul around him. I was a little shocked. Was he in trouble? Was he having a bad day? I let it go until after school. When he came home I asked him why he had sat alone. (I still tear up 10 years later thinking of his little face) He looked up with those beautiful M&M eyes and said, "I have no friends, I've been eating lunch alone since school started."
I hugged him and put on my bravest face and said, with more confidence than I was feeling, "Then we are going to pray God sends you a friend!" (Then I went to the bathroom and cried really hard)
We started praying everyday for God to please send a friend. The next Sunday after church, my son busted through the auditorium doors yelling, "Mom, God answered our prayers!" Sure enough God and brought a new family to visit that Sunday and they had a son in the 5th grade. (Who was also quiet and shy.) They immediately became buds. They played in band together, quit band together, played football together, and Sr. Year Captained the Football team together. Now they are both in Bible College together and share an apartment together. (Actually, they are dating best friends.) They also have birthday's the same week only 2 days apart! God Truly Answered our prayers!
Looking back there were so many days I blamed God for moving us to New York, from friends who we loved, and still love, to this day. Why did God put my kids in that scary place? Why couldn't He have made life easier on them?
BECAUSE...God loves my kids more than Me. He knew my son would learn one of the most valuable lessons in his life. God cares, God loves him, God answers prayer. He also knew that lesson would grow him up to Trust God with all of life's problems. Big or small!
So Happy Birthday guys. You know I love you and SO DOES GOD!
It has sent my mind racing to where the time went, but also to all the moments that grew him into the godly man he has become. For example, the time he and his big sis were in the pool and she tried to baptize him, but told him he had to repent first. He exclaimed, "What is Repent?" To which she answered, "Because you are a sinner you need to say sorry to Jesus!". He yelled at the top of his 3 year old lungs, "I am not a sinner and if you say it again I will punch you in the mouth!" Awwww good times.
Thank goodness he did finally figure out he was a sinner and he did accept Jesus into his life.
Another defining moment was when we moved to New York.
He was a new 5th grader in a huge school. He was also a quiet kid and shy kid. (Man did he grow out of that. I will take credit...or blame for that one)
He had been in school 4 months and they were about to have Christmas Break. I had went up to the school to help with the class party and happened to pass by the lunch room. There were over 365 kids...all 5th graders eating lunch. It was crazy loud with kids yelling and teachers trying keep everyone in their seats. I peeked in to see my son, when I noticed he was sitting all by himself. Not a soul around him. I was a little shocked. Was he in trouble? Was he having a bad day? I let it go until after school. When he came home I asked him why he had sat alone. (I still tear up 10 years later thinking of his little face) He looked up with those beautiful M&M eyes and said, "I have no friends, I've been eating lunch alone since school started."
I hugged him and put on my bravest face and said, with more confidence than I was feeling, "Then we are going to pray God sends you a friend!" (Then I went to the bathroom and cried really hard)
We started praying everyday for God to please send a friend. The next Sunday after church, my son busted through the auditorium doors yelling, "Mom, God answered our prayers!" Sure enough God and brought a new family to visit that Sunday and they had a son in the 5th grade. (Who was also quiet and shy.) They immediately became buds. They played in band together, quit band together, played football together, and Sr. Year Captained the Football team together. Now they are both in Bible College together and share an apartment together. (Actually, they are dating best friends.) They also have birthday's the same week only 2 days apart! God Truly Answered our prayers!
Looking back there were so many days I blamed God for moving us to New York, from friends who we loved, and still love, to this day. Why did God put my kids in that scary place? Why couldn't He have made life easier on them?
BECAUSE...God loves my kids more than Me. He knew my son would learn one of the most valuable lessons in his life. God cares, God loves him, God answers prayer. He also knew that lesson would grow him up to Trust God with all of life's problems. Big or small!
So Happy Birthday guys. You know I love you and SO DOES GOD!
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU ASK FOR!
So I am doing a Beth Moore study on the life of David. I absolutely love it! (Shocker) But, the very first night God used the study to speak to my heart. (Again, Shocker!)
We were studying the name of Saul. It actually means "Asked For". I know, you're saying "What's the big deal." You're right, it's not that big of a deal, unless you read 1 Samuel 8:19-20. Actually, 1 Samuel 8:1-20.
Here is the summery. The people of Israel went to Samuel and "Asked For" a king to lead them. The reason...."So we can be like other nations!"
Well not only did they reject the Lord as their king, they "Asked For" a king so they could be like everyone else. It cracked me up to think that God gave the people what they "Asked For". A man named Saul which means "Asked For" (Don't tell me God doesn't have a sense of humor!"
It made me start thinking. How many times have I prayed for my kids, "God just help them fit in?" (We have moved several times and it's always so hard to watch your kids struggle to make friends and not stick out as "The NEW kids".)
I want my kids to fit in, because I know how hard it is to feel embarrassed and awkward and insecure. But here is the truth. As Children of God, we are NOT suppose to "Fit In". We are to be the light in this dark world. Think about that. Turn off the lights and see how dark it is, then turn on the light. What a contrast! That is how we are to be in this world. Not like the other Nations.
Yes, it's hard watching your kids getting mocked because they went to See You At The Pole. Yes, its hard when they have to explain why they can't date someone who doesn't believe like them. Yes, it's hard when their friends criticize them for choosing to go to Youth Group instead of a party. But, would I REALLY want them to "Fit In" and be like the other kids?
I have been blessed to have 2 of my three children grow into mature, loving, godly adults. I have 1 still growing, but she is on the right track. We will pray for godly friends. We will pray for boldness and courage to stand out. We will pray for her to love God more than the praise of men! But the one thing I will NOT be praying. "Help her fit in and be like other kids!"
Thank you Lord for NOT giving me what I asked for and help me be careful of what I DO ask for!
We were studying the name of Saul. It actually means "Asked For". I know, you're saying "What's the big deal." You're right, it's not that big of a deal, unless you read 1 Samuel 8:19-20. Actually, 1 Samuel 8:1-20.
Here is the summery. The people of Israel went to Samuel and "Asked For" a king to lead them. The reason...."So we can be like other nations!"
Well not only did they reject the Lord as their king, they "Asked For" a king so they could be like everyone else. It cracked me up to think that God gave the people what they "Asked For". A man named Saul which means "Asked For" (Don't tell me God doesn't have a sense of humor!"
It made me start thinking. How many times have I prayed for my kids, "God just help them fit in?" (We have moved several times and it's always so hard to watch your kids struggle to make friends and not stick out as "The NEW kids".)
I want my kids to fit in, because I know how hard it is to feel embarrassed and awkward and insecure. But here is the truth. As Children of God, we are NOT suppose to "Fit In". We are to be the light in this dark world. Think about that. Turn off the lights and see how dark it is, then turn on the light. What a contrast! That is how we are to be in this world. Not like the other Nations.
Yes, it's hard watching your kids getting mocked because they went to See You At The Pole. Yes, its hard when they have to explain why they can't date someone who doesn't believe like them. Yes, it's hard when their friends criticize them for choosing to go to Youth Group instead of a party. But, would I REALLY want them to "Fit In" and be like the other kids?
I have been blessed to have 2 of my three children grow into mature, loving, godly adults. I have 1 still growing, but she is on the right track. We will pray for godly friends. We will pray for boldness and courage to stand out. We will pray for her to love God more than the praise of men! But the one thing I will NOT be praying. "Help her fit in and be like other kids!"
Thank you Lord for NOT giving me what I asked for and help me be careful of what I DO ask for!
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
FIGHTING CHANGE PART 2
As my son pulled out of the drive, to head back to college, I had that sick feeling in my stomach. "I'm not going to cry, I'm not going to cry." I kept saying to myself. I didn't...right then. The next day, out of no where, I burst into tears. "I miss him so much," I cried.
No my son is not a freshman. No this is not the first time he has been home for break and left. In fact he is a Sr. this year. He will graduate in May with a college degree. His Dad and I are very, very proud of the godly man he has become. YET.....
Why do I cry like it's his first time to leave? CHANGE. What does it mean if he graduates? Will he ever come back home for a full break? Will he move even further away to work? It's all change and I hate it...even when it's good.
I heard this about change..." All beginnings are hard. Change hurts, even when we choose it. It is frightening, even when we boldly push forward. It undoes us, and we never know what we will be like when the pieces are put back together again." Amen!
We like sameness, routine, comfortable! But Jesus clearly says in scripture...Hebrews 13:8 - Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever" Only Jesus is the same.
Max Lucado writes in his book "Just Like Jesus" - "God accepts you just the way you are, But He loves you enough not to let you stay that way. He wants you to be Just Like Jesus."
So whether its a huge change like having a baby, losing a loved one, losing a job, sending your child into the world, or relocating. Or a smaller change (But still feels huge to you) the way something is done at work, leadership change, new friends, or just new ideas.
You have a choice to make. You can deny it's happening and cry, fight, scream, get depressed, get bitter. (Been there, done that, got the t-shirt- NOT YOUR BEST CHOICE, change still happens)
You can Cope. Grit your teeth and endure. Little bit of complaining and fighting, but as a whole you give it a try and hope it doesn't hurt too bad.
OR You can see it as a Divine Process or in Greek METANOIA = Move from Old to New. Celebrate the change Get excited about what GOD, the one who loves you and has plans for you, is going to teach you and mold you into!
I wish I could say the latter has been my attitude ever time change has came into my life. Baahaaha! But as I am maturing I am learning to Ask What instead of Why? What awesome surprise do you have for me in this situation? Instead of Why can't it stay the same? I have learned that God has my best at heart and NOTHING, not even man made changes come into my life without filtering through HIS Hands.
Jeremiah 29:11 " For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
What change has come into your life lately? Is it BIG or SMALL? How are you handling it?
No my son is not a freshman. No this is not the first time he has been home for break and left. In fact he is a Sr. this year. He will graduate in May with a college degree. His Dad and I are very, very proud of the godly man he has become. YET.....
Why do I cry like it's his first time to leave? CHANGE. What does it mean if he graduates? Will he ever come back home for a full break? Will he move even further away to work? It's all change and I hate it...even when it's good.
I heard this about change..." All beginnings are hard. Change hurts, even when we choose it. It is frightening, even when we boldly push forward. It undoes us, and we never know what we will be like when the pieces are put back together again." Amen!
We like sameness, routine, comfortable! But Jesus clearly says in scripture...Hebrews 13:8 - Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever" Only Jesus is the same.
Max Lucado writes in his book "Just Like Jesus" - "God accepts you just the way you are, But He loves you enough not to let you stay that way. He wants you to be Just Like Jesus."
So whether its a huge change like having a baby, losing a loved one, losing a job, sending your child into the world, or relocating. Or a smaller change (But still feels huge to you) the way something is done at work, leadership change, new friends, or just new ideas.
You have a choice to make. You can deny it's happening and cry, fight, scream, get depressed, get bitter. (Been there, done that, got the t-shirt- NOT YOUR BEST CHOICE, change still happens)
You can Cope. Grit your teeth and endure. Little bit of complaining and fighting, but as a whole you give it a try and hope it doesn't hurt too bad.
OR You can see it as a Divine Process or in Greek METANOIA = Move from Old to New. Celebrate the change Get excited about what GOD, the one who loves you and has plans for you, is going to teach you and mold you into!
I wish I could say the latter has been my attitude ever time change has came into my life. Baahaaha! But as I am maturing I am learning to Ask What instead of Why? What awesome surprise do you have for me in this situation? Instead of Why can't it stay the same? I have learned that God has my best at heart and NOTHING, not even man made changes come into my life without filtering through HIS Hands.
Jeremiah 29:11 " For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
What change has come into your life lately? Is it BIG or SMALL? How are you handling it?
Monday, January 16, 2012
STOP FIGHTING CHANGE
I want to talk about Change. Does anyone really enjoy it? Even if it's good, do we jump in with both feet and full enthusiasm. Yes, if we are the one pushing the change and feeling like we are in control! But how often does that really happen?
It starts as newborns. What child really loves getting their diaper changed? My kids screamed like I was beating them and when they were big enough to crawl, it looked like WWF. They squirmed, screamed, flipped, and cried. Most of the time, they got away with a wipey stuck in their crack crawling as fast as they could. It was exhausting. But when it was all said and done, they would give a sigh and feel better. Why the fight? Just work with me and be better off when I'm done!
How many times do you think God has wanted to say that to us? "Stop fighting me! You will be better when I finish"
The bottom line...We fight change because we feel out of control. But the real root is WE DON'T BELIEVE GOD!
God has told us in Philippians 1:6 - "Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ."
He also says in Romans 8:28 - "We know that all things work together for good, for those who love God and are called according to His purpose."
So all change is for God's good for us. It's to complete us and make us more like Him.
We will talk more this week about change and why we fight it, and what to do. In the meantime, ask yourself what are You fighting God about. Are you running naked with wipey stuck for no reason at all? You will feel better when God changes you and you feel clean and comfortable and give a sigh of THANKS!
It starts as newborns. What child really loves getting their diaper changed? My kids screamed like I was beating them and when they were big enough to crawl, it looked like WWF. They squirmed, screamed, flipped, and cried. Most of the time, they got away with a wipey stuck in their crack crawling as fast as they could. It was exhausting. But when it was all said and done, they would give a sigh and feel better. Why the fight? Just work with me and be better off when I'm done!
How many times do you think God has wanted to say that to us? "Stop fighting me! You will be better when I finish"
The bottom line...We fight change because we feel out of control. But the real root is WE DON'T BELIEVE GOD!
God has told us in Philippians 1:6 - "Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ."
He also says in Romans 8:28 - "We know that all things work together for good, for those who love God and are called according to His purpose."
So all change is for God's good for us. It's to complete us and make us more like Him.
We will talk more this week about change and why we fight it, and what to do. In the meantime, ask yourself what are You fighting God about. Are you running naked with wipey stuck for no reason at all? You will feel better when God changes you and you feel clean and comfortable and give a sigh of THANKS!
Thursday, January 12, 2012
DID I SAY THAT?
If you are friends with me at all, or if you have heard me speak then you have heard this story. (Not one of my finer moments!)
We were young in ministry and expecting our first baby. I was about 5 or 6 months pregnant and very excited about wearing maternity clothes and FINALY showing. (I know, first child. The thrill was gone by baby 3...but that's another blog)
ANYWAY, It was a Sunday morning and I was standing in the lobby of the church shaking hands next to my husband. This lovely young couple came through the doors and she rubbed my stomach and said, "Awww when are you expecting?" Again I was young and excited, I proudly answered, "September!" Then I proceeded to rub her stomach and ask, "What about you?" I know you know what is coming! She looked embarrassed or maybe it was anger? Then replied, "Ummm, I'm not pregnant!"
My hand jerked off her stomach like it was on fire. It didn't really matter because my face was on fire. I apologized a thousand times. WHAT DO YOU SAY? My husband nearly shoved me through the wall, but it was too late. I had said it!
Years later I still turn red when I tell...or write that story. How did that come out of my mouth?
Not long ago I realized something. God taught me valuable lessons from that one very embarrassing situation.
Proverbs 12:18 Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.
James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
I did not intend to hurt that ladies feelings. For the most part I would never use my words to hurt someone else. But without wisdom my words can hurt. So if I don't want that to happen... I need to ask God for wisdom. Wise words bring healing. That is what I want!
I also learned that even if you are in labor and the baby's head is hanging out...I WON'T ASK IF YOU ARE PREGNANT!
We were young in ministry and expecting our first baby. I was about 5 or 6 months pregnant and very excited about wearing maternity clothes and FINALY showing. (I know, first child. The thrill was gone by baby 3...but that's another blog)
ANYWAY, It was a Sunday morning and I was standing in the lobby of the church shaking hands next to my husband. This lovely young couple came through the doors and she rubbed my stomach and said, "Awww when are you expecting?" Again I was young and excited, I proudly answered, "September!" Then I proceeded to rub her stomach and ask, "What about you?" I know you know what is coming! She looked embarrassed or maybe it was anger? Then replied, "Ummm, I'm not pregnant!"
My hand jerked off her stomach like it was on fire. It didn't really matter because my face was on fire. I apologized a thousand times. WHAT DO YOU SAY? My husband nearly shoved me through the wall, but it was too late. I had said it!
Years later I still turn red when I tell...or write that story. How did that come out of my mouth?
Not long ago I realized something. God taught me valuable lessons from that one very embarrassing situation.
Proverbs 12:18 Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.
I did not intend to hurt that ladies feelings. For the most part I would never use my words to hurt someone else. But without wisdom my words can hurt. So if I don't want that to happen... I need to ask God for wisdom. Wise words bring healing. That is what I want!
I also learned that even if you are in labor and the baby's head is hanging out...I WON'T ASK IF YOU ARE PREGNANT!
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
WAIT ON THE LORD
I got a Mandisa CD for Christmas. I have listened to it at least twice everyday. I love every single song and I ALMOST know every word of every song. Then the other day I took the CD in my car and sang all the way through the cd...at the top of my lungs and close to on pitch! (Mandisa sings a LOT higher than I do!)
Anyway the cd popped out and I pushed it back in to start over. The cd didn't go in so I pushed a little harder. It started to go in and I gave a little shove to help.
BAD IDEA...I now have my favorite cd stuck in the player and I can't listen to anything in the player. All you hear when you turn on the sound system is MY CD trying to come out!
Then today I read ...
Isa 30:18
So what could that mean? Then it hit me. It's just like my CD. When we don't trust God and wait for Him we will "shove" ahead and live "Stuck". You cannot run ahead of God. It's just like shoving a cd in the player. You just make noise and try to play, but you won't make any progress.
What is keeping you from waiting on the Lord? Is it worth it to push ahead without the LORD? I can promise...from experience, it is NOT. In fact some of my greatest lessons have been learned while I was waiting for God.
Psa 37:7
Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for Him to act So the LORD must wait for you to come to Him so He can show you His love and compassion. For the LORD is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for His help.
Hey while your waiting can you tell me how to get my cd out?
Anyway the cd popped out and I pushed it back in to start over. The cd didn't go in so I pushed a little harder. It started to go in and I gave a little shove to help.
BAD IDEA...I now have my favorite cd stuck in the player and I can't listen to anything in the player. All you hear when you turn on the sound system is MY CD trying to come out!
Then today I read ...
So what could that mean? Then it hit me. It's just like my CD. When we don't trust God and wait for Him we will "shove" ahead and live "Stuck". You cannot run ahead of God. It's just like shoving a cd in the player. You just make noise and try to play, but you won't make any progress.
What is keeping you from waiting on the Lord? Is it worth it to push ahead without the LORD? I can promise...from experience, it is NOT. In fact some of my greatest lessons have been learned while I was waiting for God.
Psa 37:7
Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for Him to act So the LORD must wait for you to come to Him so He can show you His love and compassion. For the LORD is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for His help.
Hey while your waiting can you tell me how to get my cd out?
Monday, January 9, 2012
REMEMBER WHEN?
Psalm 51:12
Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and make me willing to obey You. m
I had the privilege today to share my testimony with a couple of young ladies. As I was driving home I realized it felt really great to remember, and talk about, what God did for me 32 years ago.
I was a 13 year old, who was trying to figure out if I was a kid or a "REAL" teenager. There was a lady in our church who was offering a class on how to do your hair and make-up. I eagerly attended the class and actually learned some great tips on filing, painting, cleaning, curling, and conditioning. It was great fun.
At the end of the night, the lady stood up and said, "I'm so glad everyone had fun and enjoyed yourselves, BUT...let me ask a question. If you left tonight and something tragic happened and you died and stood before God and He asked 'Why should I let you into heaven?' Do you know what you would say?" She went on to say, "Knowing how to look good on the outside will not be good enough."
I wasn't sure what I would say. I had grown up in church, but I didn't have a answer. I went that night and talked to my youth Pastor's wife. We looked at scripture and I realized I was a sinner who needed a Savior. That night I got on my knees and asked The Lord to save me. A few months later I was baptized and that summer I went to youth camp and surrendered my life to full time ministry.
That was over 32 years ago and I have never regretted that decision. I have, however, had times where I forgot the joy of my salvation. I have taken for granted what God did for me and forgotten, that I get to do what I do, because of what God did for me.
I'm guessing I'm not alone. Why else would David have written Restore to me the joy of your salvation? David didn't stop there. He also asked for The Lord to make him willing to obey. Maybe the two go hand in hand? When we obey God it restores the Joy of our salvation. We obey and it reminds us of Why we are obeying. God has changed our life. He has given us hope and eternal life.
So if you have lost the joy of your salvation maybe there is an obedience problem...or maybe you just need to share with someone else and be reminded?
I'd love to hear your story...please share
Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and make me willing to obey You. m
I had the privilege today to share my testimony with a couple of young ladies. As I was driving home I realized it felt really great to remember, and talk about, what God did for me 32 years ago.
I was a 13 year old, who was trying to figure out if I was a kid or a "REAL" teenager. There was a lady in our church who was offering a class on how to do your hair and make-up. I eagerly attended the class and actually learned some great tips on filing, painting, cleaning, curling, and conditioning. It was great fun.
At the end of the night, the lady stood up and said, "I'm so glad everyone had fun and enjoyed yourselves, BUT...let me ask a question. If you left tonight and something tragic happened and you died and stood before God and He asked 'Why should I let you into heaven?' Do you know what you would say?" She went on to say, "Knowing how to look good on the outside will not be good enough."
I wasn't sure what I would say. I had grown up in church, but I didn't have a answer. I went that night and talked to my youth Pastor's wife. We looked at scripture and I realized I was a sinner who needed a Savior. That night I got on my knees and asked The Lord to save me. A few months later I was baptized and that summer I went to youth camp and surrendered my life to full time ministry.
That was over 32 years ago and I have never regretted that decision. I have, however, had times where I forgot the joy of my salvation. I have taken for granted what God did for me and forgotten, that I get to do what I do, because of what God did for me.
I'm guessing I'm not alone. Why else would David have written Restore to me the joy of your salvation? David didn't stop there. He also asked for The Lord to make him willing to obey. Maybe the two go hand in hand? When we obey God it restores the Joy of our salvation. We obey and it reminds us of Why we are obeying. God has changed our life. He has given us hope and eternal life.
So if you have lost the joy of your salvation maybe there is an obedience problem...or maybe you just need to share with someone else and be reminded?
I'd love to hear your story...please share
Friday, January 6, 2012
LESSON FROM MY DOG
I was going through a "dry" spell in my Christian life. I wasn't mad. There wasn't some terrible sin in my life. I was just being lazy. I was tired in the morning so guess what I would skip? Yep, my quiet time. When I wanted to talk it was on the phone, not to God. Then I actually had the nerve to wonder why I didn't feel God in my life.
One night before I went to bed I did pray and ask God, "Why do I not feel you near and What should I do?" I went to sleep. About 6 am the alarm went off. I laid in bed having that old familiar conversation. "If I just sleep a little longer, I can do my devotions later. Right? " "You understand God? You know I need my sleep...You made me! lol"
God laughed out loud all right. Just as I was falling back to sleep my dog started barking and scratching at the door. I knew if I didn't get up he would leave me a surprise somewhere in the house and it would NOT be a good start to my day. I reluctantly got out of bed and let the dog out. Well, I was awake now so I might as well go ahead and read my bible. I read John 21.
When I got to verse 7-8 I realized something eye opening. Peter, even though he had denied Jesus 3 times, was so excited that Jesus was on the shore, he jumped out of the boat and swam to shore. He was only a few yards out, but he couldn't wait. That's when God spoke to me..."When was the last time you jumped out of bed to see Me?" OUCH!
I had jumped out of bed to keep the dog from making messes in my house; but I couldn't get out of bed to hear what MY God, The God of the universe, had to say to me. I confessed my sin and laziness right then and there and thanked God for being patient and speaking to me. Even if He had to use my dog to get my attention! Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, "It is the Lord," he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water. The other disciples followed in the boat, towing the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, about a hundred yards.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
STOP LOOKING AT ME!
I Samuel 16:7b "The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."
It was our first Sunday, in our first church, as the "NEW" staff. My husband had been hired to do music and young marrieds. I was so excited to be full time in ministry I could barely stand still. As we were coming out of the choir room on that Sunday morning, I was beaming with pride that the man leading the worship was MY Husband. I was standing in awe admiring how handsome he looked, when I noticed a small string hanging out of his sleeve. When I say small, I mean really small. No one would ever notice...Except an adoring wife. The more I stared, the more it bugged me. (Everything was suppose to be perfect, we were in full time ministry now. We had a reputation to uphold.) I couldn't take it. When my husband asked one of the ushers to pray for the offering I made my move. I came out of the choir loft, onto the platform and grabbed that string with all my might! Imagine my husbands surprise when we hear the usher saying "In Jesus Name We pray all these things." I'm still on the platform and that little string is now 2 feet long. (That suit was made REALLY well!) Before the usher could say Amen. I made a mad dash back to the choir loft, my husband started shoving string back into his sleeve and all was well.
Not exactly. As my husband led the next song that little string made it's way out of that sleeve. a By the end of the song it looked as if he was doing a ribbon dance with his right arm. You could hear people snickering and my husband turned 10 shades of red.
Just let me say, my husband is a very forgiving man. (After I apologized for days on end.) But I did learn a very valuable lesson.
If I'm not careful I can look at people and life a little too close and see things that are not significant at all to eternal things. I can stare so long that they bug me and when I react I make a bigger mess.
People are never going to meet my standards and I am never going to meet theirs. But when I pray and ask God to help me see people as He sees them. I honestly see people who are trying to please God, not trying to get on my nerves.
"God help us to see as You see, and not look so close at the outward appearance!"
Oh, One more lesson...I now carry clippers in my purse!
It was our first Sunday, in our first church, as the "NEW" staff. My husband had been hired to do music and young marrieds. I was so excited to be full time in ministry I could barely stand still. As we were coming out of the choir room on that Sunday morning, I was beaming with pride that the man leading the worship was MY Husband. I was standing in awe admiring how handsome he looked, when I noticed a small string hanging out of his sleeve. When I say small, I mean really small. No one would ever notice...Except an adoring wife. The more I stared, the more it bugged me. (Everything was suppose to be perfect, we were in full time ministry now. We had a reputation to uphold.) I couldn't take it. When my husband asked one of the ushers to pray for the offering I made my move. I came out of the choir loft, onto the platform and grabbed that string with all my might! Imagine my husbands surprise when we hear the usher saying "In Jesus Name We pray all these things." I'm still on the platform and that little string is now 2 feet long. (That suit was made REALLY well!) Before the usher could say Amen. I made a mad dash back to the choir loft, my husband started shoving string back into his sleeve and all was well.
Not exactly. As my husband led the next song that little string made it's way out of that sleeve. a By the end of the song it looked as if he was doing a ribbon dance with his right arm. You could hear people snickering and my husband turned 10 shades of red.
Just let me say, my husband is a very forgiving man. (After I apologized for days on end.) But I did learn a very valuable lesson.
If I'm not careful I can look at people and life a little too close and see things that are not significant at all to eternal things. I can stare so long that they bug me and when I react I make a bigger mess.
People are never going to meet my standards and I am never going to meet theirs. But when I pray and ask God to help me see people as He sees them. I honestly see people who are trying to please God, not trying to get on my nerves.
"God help us to see as You see, and not look so close at the outward appearance!"
Oh, One more lesson...I now carry clippers in my purse!
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
AWWW I am the "Older" Women!
I have been in full time ministry for 26 years. Most days I really enjoy what I do...BUT there are a few days when I wish I had a "REAL" job. Any of you ever been there?
I have read some books on being a Pastor's wife, but can't find a ton out there. I was recently looking for an "older" woman to show me the way. You know, Titus 2:3-4, Older women teach the younger? When it hit me...I AM THE OLDER WOMEN!!!
Needless to say it was a sad depressing day. I ate extra chocolate, exercised, and took a trip to walmart for new anti-aging cream! Then I heard God say, "Be an Example". " Teach those younger some of the things you learned the hard way, because no one taught you. "
So my blog will be lessons I have learned and still learning. I am hoping to encourage and challange anyone who reads, but I am a firm believer that you are NEVER to old to learn. I would love to hear what God has taught or is teaching other's in ministry and what resouces have truly helped you.
Thanks for reading.
Shelley
I have read some books on being a Pastor's wife, but can't find a ton out there. I was recently looking for an "older" woman to show me the way. You know, Titus 2:3-4, Older women teach the younger? When it hit me...I AM THE OLDER WOMEN!!!
Needless to say it was a sad depressing day. I ate extra chocolate, exercised, and took a trip to walmart for new anti-aging cream! Then I heard God say, "Be an Example". " Teach those younger some of the things you learned the hard way, because no one taught you. "
So my blog will be lessons I have learned and still learning. I am hoping to encourage and challange anyone who reads, but I am a firm believer that you are NEVER to old to learn. I would love to hear what God has taught or is teaching other's in ministry and what resouces have truly helped you.
Thanks for reading.
Shelley
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