It's something said a lot in church settings.
"You are a child of God."
"God is your Father."
But, honestly, I didn't TRULY understand what that meant.
When I fell away from God I got into the "I have to clean up my life before I can return" trap. I felt like I had to be GOOD ENOUGH for Him to truly love me.
My husband said to me, "That's the best part. None of us deserve it and none of us are truly good enough. He loves us anyway."
I accepted that and accepted Christ (again).
But now that I'm a parent with kids of my own I feel like I actually get it.
My kids aren't perfect. They are FAR from it! They make me angry daily. They disobey daily...sometimes hourly. And I still love them. I don't approve of their bad decisions, but it doesn't make me love them any less.
THAT is how God feels about us. We screw up daily...sometimes hourly! He gets angry with us. He doesn't approve of our bad decisions, but that doesn't mean he loves us any less!
Showing posts with label Scripture. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Scripture. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Does Your Reflection Show Your Love?
I avoid the mirror.
It's a habit from when I was a teenager and deep into my eating disorder. I still have a distorted view of my body (I see fat where there isn't any) so the habit is still there. It might be a little amusing to watch me spend time in the bathroom and only look in the mirror once or twice.
I know a lot of people feel that children reflect their parents' parenting. (Sometimes I hope that's not true because my son is a typical 3 year old!!) This morning he parroted something that I didn't like to hear. Jonathan (18mo) dumped out a baggie of crackers. This is typical for him and his general age group (just an FYI to new parents: 12mo-24mo is a lot of dumping) I asked them to pick them up and put them back in the bag. As I walked away to get some water I hear Franklin say, "It's you fault, Jonathan."
I froze.
He wasn't being ugly about it. He was very matter of fact. I calmly asked him to repeat what he said to make sure I heard right (this was before coffee...I mishear all sorts of fun things before coffee) He did. I did.
My heart broke a little bit. Is that how he hears me? Have I said that to him? Maybe he heard it on a show... Is he a reflection of how much I love them?
2 Corinthians 3:18 says Our faces, then, are not covered. We all show the Lord's glory, and we are being changed to be like him. This change in us brings ever greater glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. (NCV)
The King James puts it this way:
But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.
We're supposed to be a reflection of God's love. Just like we want our children to reflect our love for them. Sometimes, especially on Facebook, I see so many Christians being downright hateful. Jesus loved everyone. He didn't APPROVE of everyone, but he sure loved them. I think that we forget that sometimes. Loving someone and showing them the love of Christ isn't the same as showing them approval of their behavior...but it's hard to be loving and condemn someone to hell in the same breath (or comment box).
Linking up
It's a habit from when I was a teenager and deep into my eating disorder. I still have a distorted view of my body (I see fat where there isn't any) so the habit is still there. It might be a little amusing to watch me spend time in the bathroom and only look in the mirror once or twice.
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| I need this. |
I froze.
He wasn't being ugly about it. He was very matter of fact. I calmly asked him to repeat what he said to make sure I heard right (this was before coffee...I mishear all sorts of fun things before coffee) He did. I did.
My heart broke a little bit. Is that how he hears me? Have I said that to him? Maybe he heard it on a show... Is he a reflection of how much I love them?
2 Corinthians 3:18 says Our faces, then, are not covered. We all show the Lord's glory, and we are being changed to be like him. This change in us brings ever greater glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. (NCV)
The King James puts it this way:
But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.
We're supposed to be a reflection of God's love. Just like we want our children to reflect our love for them. Sometimes, especially on Facebook, I see so many Christians being downright hateful. Jesus loved everyone. He didn't APPROVE of everyone, but he sure loved them. I think that we forget that sometimes. Loving someone and showing them the love of Christ isn't the same as showing them approval of their behavior...but it's hard to be loving and condemn someone to hell in the same breath (or comment box).
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
I Don't Have Faith In Myself
This morning I was lying awake (I do that) and thinking about all of the things I wanted to get done today. I kept thinking "I can't do everything" and trying to prioritize. At one point I thought, "Why don't I have faith in myself to get it all done?"
That's when it hit me.
Duh. Trying to have faith in MYSELF is why I haven't been able to succeed.
I'm not supposed to have faith in myself to get things done; I'm supposed to have faith that God will give me the strength and tools to get things done.
By trying to focus on faith in myself I was basically telling God that I didn't need Him and I'd figure it out on my own.
Yeah...you can see how well THAT'S going!
So if you've been trying to figure something out and feel like you're hitting a wall...stop and pray. I have a bit more peace about the situation knowing that *I* don't have to be in charge! That's my prayer for you: Peace.
That's when it hit me.
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| Source |
I'm not supposed to have faith in myself to get things done; I'm supposed to have faith that God will give me the strength and tools to get things done.
By trying to focus on faith in myself I was basically telling God that I didn't need Him and I'd figure it out on my own.
Yeah...you can see how well THAT'S going!
So if you've been trying to figure something out and feel like you're hitting a wall...stop and pray. I have a bit more peace about the situation knowing that *I* don't have to be in charge! That's my prayer for you: Peace.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Give Her Something To Eat
Luke 8:40-56 (I cut the middle out...that's for a different post!)
Now when Jesus returned, a crowd welcomed him, for they were all expecting him.
Then a man named Jairus, a synagogue leader, came and fell at Jesus’ feet, pleading with him to come to his house because his only daughter, a girl of about twelve, was dying.
While Jesus was still speaking, someone came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” he said. “Don’t bother the teacher anymore.”
Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, “Don’t be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed.”
When he arrived at the house of Jairus, he did not let anyone go in with him except Peter, John and James, and the child’s father and mother.
Meanwhile, all the people were wailing and mourning for her. “Stop wailing,” Jesus said. “She is not dead but asleep.”
They laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. But he took her by the hand and said, “My child, get up!” Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up. Then Jesus told them to give her something to eat. Her parents were astonished, but he ordered them not to tell anyone what had happened.
I have so many thoughts on this passage...
- The quote from Jesus "Don't be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed" is SO powerful. Just believe. Just. Believe. I can't say it enough. That is ALL we need for healing. Believe that Jesus WILL.
- I think it's interesting that He didn't let everyone go in...he took a few disciples and the girl's parents.
- Jesus told them to give her something to eat. This verse has SO much impact on me. When I was still recovering from my eating disorder my husband and I came across this verse during a Bible study. Why was it emphasized to give her food? It MUST be important or it wouldn't be recorded.
This is an open ended post. I want YOUR thoughts below!
Now when Jesus returned, a crowd welcomed him, for they were all expecting him.
Then a man named Jairus, a synagogue leader, came and fell at Jesus’ feet, pleading with him to come to his house because his only daughter, a girl of about twelve, was dying.
While Jesus was still speaking, someone came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” he said. “Don’t bother the teacher anymore.”
Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, “Don’t be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed.”
When he arrived at the house of Jairus, he did not let anyone go in with him except Peter, John and James, and the child’s father and mother.
Meanwhile, all the people were wailing and mourning for her. “Stop wailing,” Jesus said. “She is not dead but asleep.”
They laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. But he took her by the hand and said, “My child, get up!” Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up. Then Jesus told them to give her something to eat. Her parents were astonished, but he ordered them not to tell anyone what had happened.
I have so many thoughts on this passage...
- The quote from Jesus "Don't be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed" is SO powerful. Just believe. Just. Believe. I can't say it enough. That is ALL we need for healing. Believe that Jesus WILL.
- I think it's interesting that He didn't let everyone go in...he took a few disciples and the girl's parents.
- Jesus told them to give her something to eat. This verse has SO much impact on me. When I was still recovering from my eating disorder my husband and I came across this verse during a Bible study. Why was it emphasized to give her food? It MUST be important or it wouldn't be recorded.
This is an open ended post. I want YOUR thoughts below!
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Dealing With Fear
So, a moment of bragging, my business has been picking up and doing really well. February I earned close to $250. March I can see a bit of what I'm earning and it's close to $300...my last paycheck kept my family out of the red. (Yes, we probably could have done it ourselves...but that little bit really helped)
It's weird...even though I'm seeing the numbers and seeing the success there's this teeny voice in my head that whispers things to me.
Things like...
You can't do it.
Quit now. You'll never keep this up.
You got lucky. Next time you'll just fail.
You'll never get more than this.
That voice? Is dead wrong. I know it is.
I bounced this off my husband and he told me it's totally normal. These are the moments that separate successful people and unsuccessful people. Successful people hear that voice and tell it to hush up. (We don't say shut up in my house! lol) Unsuccessful people give in and listen to that voice.
At the beginning of January I put my trust in God. I told Him that if He wanted me to stay in this business to show me, to grow my business, and to help me succeed. He definitely has done that.
Psalm 56:3 says When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.
So yes, I'm afraid. I have to admit I'm close to terrified. This could be a huge defining moment for our lives. If I continue growing like this, even at a slow pace, my husband won't have to reenlist into the military in 5 years. That would be such a blessing!
It's weird...even though I'm seeing the numbers and seeing the success there's this teeny voice in my head that whispers things to me.
Things like...
You can't do it.
Quit now. You'll never keep this up.
You got lucky. Next time you'll just fail.
You'll never get more than this.
That voice? Is dead wrong. I know it is.
I bounced this off my husband and he told me it's totally normal. These are the moments that separate successful people and unsuccessful people. Successful people hear that voice and tell it to hush up. (We don't say shut up in my house! lol) Unsuccessful people give in and listen to that voice.
At the beginning of January I put my trust in God. I told Him that if He wanted me to stay in this business to show me, to grow my business, and to help me succeed. He definitely has done that.
Psalm 56:3 says When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.
So yes, I'm afraid. I have to admit I'm close to terrified. This could be a huge defining moment for our lives. If I continue growing like this, even at a slow pace, my husband won't have to reenlist into the military in 5 years. That would be such a blessing!
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Are You Forgiving?
I'm doing the Good Morning Girls study on Ephesians. I'm in a Facebook group with some AWESOME ladies!
Today's verse was: Eph. 4:4-6 "There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
We ended up talking about the parable of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18: 23-35. Basically, a servant is called in to his lord because he owes money. He BEGS to be given more time and the lord has compassion and forgives his debt. This servant immediately goes and starts demanding money from a fellow servant that owes him. (And, for the record, the debt is significantly smaller) The lord finds out and is livid and has the man thrown in jail. The lesson is basically: Forgive others if you expect to be forgiven.
For me this speaks a lot of marriage.
My husband has forgiven a lot. I have a troubled past and I'm not perfect (there are days I'm so far from it that it's ridiculous). But he forgives me. So, if my husband can forgive me what kind of person am I if I can't forgive others?
Even moreso, if GOD can forgive me...and He's a lot more jealous and picky than my husband...what kind of example am I setting if I can't forgive others? If I refuse to forgive someone am I reflecting Christ?
I struggle with this with my children. My toddler, especially today, has been troublesome.
He's a typical toddler. He doesn't listen, he yells back at me, he throws things, he plays rough, etc... I have to remember (remind myself) that he lives in the moment. So, when he throws something and gets disciplined he's over it 5mins later even if *I'M* not over it.
But isn't it like that with God? Scripture tells us that time means nothing to God. So what feels like an eternity for me is like a fingersnap for God. When I'm dwelling on something God may be saying "Forgive and move on."
Linking up!
Today's verse was: Eph. 4:4-6 "There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
We ended up talking about the parable of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18: 23-35. Basically, a servant is called in to his lord because he owes money. He BEGS to be given more time and the lord has compassion and forgives his debt. This servant immediately goes and starts demanding money from a fellow servant that owes him. (And, for the record, the debt is significantly smaller) The lord finds out and is livid and has the man thrown in jail. The lesson is basically: Forgive others if you expect to be forgiven.
For me this speaks a lot of marriage.
My husband has forgiven a lot. I have a troubled past and I'm not perfect (there are days I'm so far from it that it's ridiculous). But he forgives me. So, if my husband can forgive me what kind of person am I if I can't forgive others?
Even moreso, if GOD can forgive me...and He's a lot more jealous and picky than my husband...what kind of example am I setting if I can't forgive others? If I refuse to forgive someone am I reflecting Christ?
I struggle with this with my children. My toddler, especially today, has been troublesome.
He's a typical toddler. He doesn't listen, he yells back at me, he throws things, he plays rough, etc... I have to remember (remind myself) that he lives in the moment. So, when he throws something and gets disciplined he's over it 5mins later even if *I'M* not over it.
But isn't it like that with God? Scripture tells us that time means nothing to God. So what feels like an eternity for me is like a fingersnap for God. When I'm dwelling on something God may be saying "Forgive and move on."
Linking up!
Friday, February 24, 2012
What Are You Saying To God?
One of the blogs I follow on Facebook wrote today about grumbling to God. I encourage you to go and read the post because it is REALLY GOOD and very convicting!
The Scriptures she references are:
Acts 3:8 And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.
and
Col 3:23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
Everything we do should be to praise God. Yes, even scrubbing toilets and picking up toys.
I realized I complain a lot...a lot more than I should.
I feel like God called me to be a stay at home wife and mother. So, each time I complain and say "I CAN'T DO THIS!" I'm basically telling God "You made a mistake."
God doesn't make mistakes. Everything is in His hands. He called me to do this for a reason. Even if it doesn't make sense to ME it makes sense to HIM and that's all that matters.
Challenge: The next time you feel a complaint coming on say "Thank you" instead. Seriously. Even if you don't mean it at first (it will probably come out in a sarcastic tone) do it anyway. Thank God for the toilet you're scrubbing, for the dishes you're washing, for the screaming children...If He brings you to it He'll bring you through it!
UPDATE!
I did this on Friday when I was trying to get the kids dressed. Clothes (clean) were everywhere and I had trouble finding kid pants. Instead of complaining I remembered this post, paused, and said "Thank you Lord for giving us so many clothes that I have trouble sorting through them. Thank you for the space in the house to spread clothes everywhere. Thank you for my (then screaming) children." I don't know it humbled me...but it gave me something else to focus on for a brief moment.
Linking up
The Scriptures she references are:
Acts 3:8 And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.
and
Col 3:23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
Everything we do should be to praise God. Yes, even scrubbing toilets and picking up toys.
I realized I complain a lot...a lot more than I should.
I feel like God called me to be a stay at home wife and mother. So, each time I complain and say "I CAN'T DO THIS!" I'm basically telling God "You made a mistake."
God doesn't make mistakes. Everything is in His hands. He called me to do this for a reason. Even if it doesn't make sense to ME it makes sense to HIM and that's all that matters.
Challenge: The next time you feel a complaint coming on say "Thank you" instead. Seriously. Even if you don't mean it at first (it will probably come out in a sarcastic tone) do it anyway. Thank God for the toilet you're scrubbing, for the dishes you're washing, for the screaming children...If He brings you to it He'll bring you through it!
UPDATE!
I did this on Friday when I was trying to get the kids dressed. Clothes (clean) were everywhere and I had trouble finding kid pants. Instead of complaining I remembered this post, paused, and said "Thank you Lord for giving us so many clothes that I have trouble sorting through them. Thank you for the space in the house to spread clothes everywhere. Thank you for my (then screaming) children." I don't know it humbled me...but it gave me something else to focus on for a brief moment.
Linking up
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Emotional Hoarding?
There's a popular TV phenomenon right now...
Hoarding TV Shows.
As I lay in bed this morning God put on my heart that you can be a hoarder even if your home doesn't look like this:
But what if EMOTIONALLY you're a hoarder?
The definition of hoarding is
If you change "items" to "emotions" or "grudges" the above description reads like most people. We hold on to grudges and bad feelings and bad memories. We fill ourselves up with those things until we're so full of depression/anxiety/hate that we can't let anyone else in. We feel that we need to hold on to this garbage because if we don't we'll forget and get hurt again. The danger that comes with hoarding is two-fold: 1) The stacks of garbage will fall and crush the hoarder. 2) If the hoarder needs help no one (ie: emergency crews) will be able to get in and help.
If you're so full of emotional garbage you probably don't feel comfortable letting anyone, including God, inside. I remember telling my husband, then boyfriend, "I'm not good enough for God." I thought I needed to clean up my life before I could invite God in...definitely before I let anyone else in either.
So what do we do? On the show they get a therapist and professional cleaning crew to come in and help the hoarder deal with the mess. We have that in the way of the Holy Spirit. He's a helper (John 14:16 I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper to be with you forever), a therapist, and a cleaning crew. If you ask the Holy Spirit to help you clean up your emotional garbage He will be MORE than happy to help.
If you need help/advice on how to ask the Holy Spirit for help please email me or comment below (or come find me on Facebook!)
Hoarding TV Shows.
As I lay in bed this morning God put on my heart that you can be a hoarder even if your home doesn't look like this:
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| Source |
The definition of hoarding is
Hoarding is the excessive collection of items, along with the inability to discard them. Hoarding often creates such cramped living conditions that homes may be filled to capacity, with only narrow pathways winding through stacks of clutter....People who hoard typically save items because they believe these items will be needed or have value in the future...Source
If you change "items" to "emotions" or "grudges" the above description reads like most people. We hold on to grudges and bad feelings and bad memories. We fill ourselves up with those things until we're so full of depression/anxiety/hate that we can't let anyone else in. We feel that we need to hold on to this garbage because if we don't we'll forget and get hurt again. The danger that comes with hoarding is two-fold: 1) The stacks of garbage will fall and crush the hoarder. 2) If the hoarder needs help no one (ie: emergency crews) will be able to get in and help.
If you're so full of emotional garbage you probably don't feel comfortable letting anyone, including God, inside. I remember telling my husband, then boyfriend, "I'm not good enough for God." I thought I needed to clean up my life before I could invite God in...definitely before I let anyone else in either.
So what do we do? On the show they get a therapist and professional cleaning crew to come in and help the hoarder deal with the mess. We have that in the way of the Holy Spirit. He's a helper (John 14:16 I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper to be with you forever), a therapist, and a cleaning crew. If you ask the Holy Spirit to help you clean up your emotional garbage He will be MORE than happy to help.
If you need help/advice on how to ask the Holy Spirit for help please email me or comment below (or come find me on Facebook!)
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Be Still And Know... (repost)
I know, another repost!
There will be several because I loved them when I wrote them last year...
The verse that is on my mind today is Psalm 46:10a Be still and know that I am God.
Why that verse? Mothers of toddlers (I'm willing to bet especially mothers of BOYS) will get it quickly.
We want our children to know God. We want them raised to know that they have a wonderful Heavenly Father that sent his Son to die for their sins. The verse I've chosen is very specific in the manner of knowing God: Be still.
As a mother of a toddler boy (with another boy on the way) I have to laugh a little bit. (It's okay to laugh when you read the Bible right?) My son is very rarely STILL. Even when he's not actively running around tearing the house down he's still moving. He's always busy. The only time this child is STILL is when he's sleeping...and sometimes not even then! As a result, I often forget to be be still.
New Year's Challenge: Create a time of stillness to commune with God. Even if it's just prayer time before bed. All of us need to have that time. We should begin developing this habit before the new baby gets here!
Will you accept the challenge? How are you "still" to hear God?
There will be several because I loved them when I wrote them last year...
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| My sweet boy |
The verse that is on my mind today is Psalm 46:10a Be still and know that I am God.
Why that verse? Mothers of toddlers (I'm willing to bet especially mothers of BOYS) will get it quickly.
We want our children to know God. We want them raised to know that they have a wonderful Heavenly Father that sent his Son to die for their sins. The verse I've chosen is very specific in the manner of knowing God: Be still.
As a mother of a toddler boy (with another boy on the way) I have to laugh a little bit. (It's okay to laugh when you read the Bible right?) My son is very rarely STILL. Even when he's not actively running around tearing the house down he's still moving. He's always busy. The only time this child is STILL is when he's sleeping...and sometimes not even then! As a result, I often forget to be be still.
New Year's Challenge: Create a time of stillness to commune with God. Even if it's just prayer time before bed. All of us need to have that time. We should begin developing this habit before the new baby gets here!
Will you accept the challenge? How are you "still" to hear God?
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
That is my 9 month old CLIMBING...He already climbs the stairs.
That is my 2 year old, fully clothed, in the bathroom sink (yes, there was water).
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
As a mom (especially a mom of boys!) I need that extra strength. There are days when I'm ready to throw in the towel. There are days the Enemy wants me to resent having children. There are days when I literally need to run away...(I always come back!)
I can do all things [change yet another diaper, break up another fight, deal with more screaming, wake after another sleepless night, clean up another mess...] through Christ who strengthens me.
http://www.themobsociety.com/2011/10/growing-godly-men-link-up-day-14/
That is my 9 month old CLIMBING...He already climbs the stairs.
That is my 2 year old, fully clothed, in the bathroom sink (yes, there was water).
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
As a mom (especially a mom of boys!) I need that extra strength. There are days when I'm ready to throw in the towel. There are days the Enemy wants me to resent having children. There are days when I literally need to run away...(I always come back!)
I can do all things [change yet another diaper, break up another fight, deal with more screaming, wake after another sleepless night, clean up another mess...] through Christ who strengthens me.
http://www.themobsociety.com/2011/10/growing-godly-men-link-up-day-14/
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Thursday, July 7, 2011
This Love is Free
One of the neatest conversations I had as a teenager was with my mom and brother in some little restaurant. I can't remember how we got on the topic, but we were discussing Love. Every "love" we put out for discussion had some sort of stipulation attached.
You can't love your husband if you never meet him.
You can't love your kids if you never have them.
You can't love your mom if you're never born.
And so the conversation went. You wouldn't think that a topic like this could keep everyone's interest for a long time, but it filled time until the food came.
There was one kind of love that we decided was, in fact, totally free.
God's Love.
He loves us no matter what. He loved us before we were born. There are NO stipulations attached. No rules. Nothing.
Jeremiah 1:5 Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart...
You can't love your husband if you never meet him.
You can't love your kids if you never have them.
You can't love your mom if you're never born.
And so the conversation went. You wouldn't think that a topic like this could keep everyone's interest for a long time, but it filled time until the food came.
There was one kind of love that we decided was, in fact, totally free.
God's Love.
He loves us no matter what. He loved us before we were born. There are NO stipulations attached. No rules. Nothing.
Jeremiah 1:5 Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart...
Thursday, May 19, 2011
A Prayer Request
I've been doing phone calls and emails most of the day.
My friend Ginni (my doula from my recent birth) told be about a little girl she knows named Peyton. Peyton lives in Toronto. Peyton is 2.5 years old.
Peyton has been diagnosed with cancer...for the second time.
My heart breaks for this family. My son is 2 years old. Just the THOUGHT of anything like this happening to him is heart wrenching. I don't even like it when he scrapes his knee!
So, I'm calling on you! My goal is to get as many people as possible putting this little girl's name before the Throne of God. He can perform a miracle. He's the only one that can.
Pray for her every chance you get. Tell your friends and family to pray for her. If we believe it, we will see a miracle done in her life!
Mark 10:16 And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.
My friend Ginni (my doula from my recent birth) told be about a little girl she knows named Peyton. Peyton lives in Toronto. Peyton is 2.5 years old.
Peyton has been diagnosed with cancer...for the second time.
My heart breaks for this family. My son is 2 years old. Just the THOUGHT of anything like this happening to him is heart wrenching. I don't even like it when he scrapes his knee!
So, I'm calling on you! My goal is to get as many people as possible putting this little girl's name before the Throne of God. He can perform a miracle. He's the only one that can.
Pray for her every chance you get. Tell your friends and family to pray for her. If we believe it, we will see a miracle done in her life!
Mark 10:16 And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Easter Challenge
I know this week most of my readers are preparing for Easter...usually planning an Easter Egg Hunts, Easter Baskets, and family reunions. Don't forget the huge thing that actually happened. (And yes, I know that it's not the EXACT DATE or whatever...but it's why we celebrate it)
Jesus gave his life so that YOU could have life. In church this weekend they showed bits from The Passion of The Christ. (I have avoided seeing that movie and my reasoning was solidified this weekend) The clips they showed were, of course, the crucifixion parts. While watching it there was a voice in my head saying, "That was for you. He went through that (and worse because they couldn't be totally accurate due to ratings) for YOU." It was a well needed reminder.
What are you doing with the life that Jesus saved? The song "Love Them Like Jesus" by Casting Crowns comes to mind. (song and lyrics at the end of this post)
I'm CHALLENGING YOU to love people like Jesus each day this week. Some ideas:
- Pray for someone. Call your local radio ministry and ask if you can pray for someone that called in with a prayer request. If you have a Twitter account search #prayerrequest and pray for someone. Call your pastor and ask if there's someone in the church that needs prayer.
- Buy bottled water and hand them out to the homeless/struggling on the side of the road. It's HOT out there for some states. Give water to construction crews.
- Call your pastor and see if someone needs help in the church. Can you go cook for someone? Clean someone's house? Help a stay at home mom with the kids? (trust me, we need it!!)
So, this week I want you to love them like Jesus. Come back and share what you did!
"Love Them Like Jesus"
The love of her life is drifting away
They're losing the fight for another day
The life that she's known is falling apart
A fatherless home, a child's broken heart
You're holding her hand, you're straining for words
You trying to make - sense of it all
She's desperate for hope, darkness clouding her view
She's looking to you
Just love her like Jesus, carry her to Him
His yoke is easy, His burden is light
You don't need the answers to all of life's questions
Just know that He loves her and stay by her side
Love her like Jesus
Love her like Jesus
The gifts lie in wait, in a room painted blue
Little blessing from Heaven would be there soon
Hope fades in the night, blue skies turn to gray
As the little one slips away
You're holding her hand, you're straining for words
You're trying to make sense of it all
They're desperate for hope, darkness clouding their view
They're looking to you
Just love them like Jesus, carry them to Him
His yoke is easy, His burden is light
You don't need the answers to all of life's questions
Just know that He loves them and stay by their side
Love them like Jesus
Lord of all creation holds our lives in His hands
The God of all the nations holds our lives in His hands
The Rock of our salvation holds our lives in His hands
He cares for them just as He cares for you
So love them like Jesus, love them like Jesus
You don't need the answers to all of life's questions
Just know that He loves them and stay by their side
Love them like Jesus
Love them like Jesus
Jesus gave his life so that YOU could have life. In church this weekend they showed bits from The Passion of The Christ. (I have avoided seeing that movie and my reasoning was solidified this weekend) The clips they showed were, of course, the crucifixion parts. While watching it there was a voice in my head saying, "That was for you. He went through that (and worse because they couldn't be totally accurate due to ratings) for YOU." It was a well needed reminder.
What are you doing with the life that Jesus saved? The song "Love Them Like Jesus" by Casting Crowns comes to mind. (song and lyrics at the end of this post)
I'm CHALLENGING YOU to love people like Jesus each day this week. Some ideas:
- Pray for someone. Call your local radio ministry and ask if you can pray for someone that called in with a prayer request. If you have a Twitter account search #prayerrequest and pray for someone. Call your pastor and ask if there's someone in the church that needs prayer.
- Buy bottled water and hand them out to the homeless/struggling on the side of the road. It's HOT out there for some states. Give water to construction crews.
- Call your pastor and see if someone needs help in the church. Can you go cook for someone? Clean someone's house? Help a stay at home mom with the kids? (trust me, we need it!!)
So, this week I want you to love them like Jesus. Come back and share what you did!
"Love Them Like Jesus"
The love of her life is drifting away
They're losing the fight for another day
The life that she's known is falling apart
A fatherless home, a child's broken heart
You're holding her hand, you're straining for words
You trying to make - sense of it all
She's desperate for hope, darkness clouding her view
She's looking to you
Just love her like Jesus, carry her to Him
His yoke is easy, His burden is light
You don't need the answers to all of life's questions
Just know that He loves her and stay by her side
Love her like Jesus
Love her like Jesus
The gifts lie in wait, in a room painted blue
Little blessing from Heaven would be there soon
Hope fades in the night, blue skies turn to gray
As the little one slips away
You're holding her hand, you're straining for words
You're trying to make sense of it all
They're desperate for hope, darkness clouding their view
They're looking to you
Just love them like Jesus, carry them to Him
His yoke is easy, His burden is light
You don't need the answers to all of life's questions
Just know that He loves them and stay by their side
Love them like Jesus
Lord of all creation holds our lives in His hands
The God of all the nations holds our lives in His hands
The Rock of our salvation holds our lives in His hands
He cares for them just as He cares for you
So love them like Jesus, love them like Jesus
You don't need the answers to all of life's questions
Just know that He loves them and stay by their side
Love them like Jesus
Love them like Jesus
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
&%$#@!
Colossians 3:8 But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.
Obscene Talk: Greek word also means "shameful", "improper", or "sordid."Now that we've identified the Scripture in question...let's get to it.
Profanity. Cursing. Swear words. Potty talk. There are a lot of different ways to say it, and even more ways to use it!
This isn't going to be a blog contesting whether or not it's sinful...but rather a blog to look at it in a different way.
I'm going to look at another verse: Matthew 15:18 But the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them.
How do I feel on the subject?
Well, I curse/swear/use bad words. I'm trying to get better about it because my son is starting to pick up words! I don't need him to bust out a "new word" in the middle of church or something! However, I use most swear words the same way that someone would use mundane words. To me, more often than not, these words are merely filler in a conversation. There is no emphasis. It's not meant to be rude. (Really!) I use the "f-word" the same way someone would use "stupid" or "THAT." (As in "the *stupid* car" or "*THAT* shoe")
What about using an alternative word? In my opinion, it's the same as cursing. If you use a "plain" filler word (like, "freaking" or even something silly like "balderdash") but IN YOUR HEART it's meant to be a "curse" then I consider it the same level of cursing. Some people will disagree here...but I think it's the intent that counts most of all.
Now, a dear friend of mine pointed out if you can choose to filter your language then why say them at all? She makes a good point. If, in the end, they are JUST WORDS then why not just stop saying them? A lot of people consider those of us that curse to be uneducated (or at least, say we sound that way) or just stupid. I'm a smart girl and a lot of people that I know that curse are educated people. We don't use profanity because we can't come up with another word...I can, and I know some big ones! I just choose to use profanity when it suits the occasion.
Please, share your thoughts in the comments below! How do YOU feel about profanity? Remember to remain respectful.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Same Life, New Story: Naomi
Naomi's story is in the book of Ruth: Click here to read it.
The Scripture that sums up the story is: “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. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29: 11- 13
Naomi felt that her life had NO plan. She felt like God had abandoned her. It turns out that He had a plan for her life the entire time!
The next time you feel beaten down and like your life is going nowhere just remember the above Scripture and know that God DOES have a plan for your life! Just remember to seek God with all your heart.
The Scripture that sums up the story is: “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. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29: 11- 13
Naomi felt that her life had NO plan. She felt like God had abandoned her. It turns out that He had a plan for her life the entire time!
The next time you feel beaten down and like your life is going nowhere just remember the above Scripture and know that God DOES have a plan for your life! Just remember to seek God with all your heart.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
You Are A Flower
It sounds kind of cheesy, right? "You're a flower." Now, don't click away. It's an analogy.
Flowers need sunshine, water, and earth to grow and thrive.
Jesus was heard to say, "whoever drinks the water I give will never be thirsty. The water I give will become a spring of water gushing up inside that person, giving eternal life." (John 4:14 NCV) Just like actual flowers need H2O to grow; you need the salvation found in Jesus to thrive and grow.
God has been referred to as "a sun and shield." (Psalm 84:11 NCV) Again, flowers cannot grow in the dark (photosynthesis requires sunlight) and YOU cannot grow in your spiritual life without God.
Here's where I don't have a direct Biblical Reference...you'll just have to go with me! Think of "earth/dirt" like the Bible; in the sense that it's the base for your spiritual self. If the dirt is too loose the flowers can't take root properly. Same thing if its too hard. You have to find the right consistency for growth.
Yeah, it's a little bit silly...but you'll remember it! (I had a teacher tell me once, "silly remembers" and she did lots of silly things to drill stuff into us)
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
East to West?
I was thinking about this Scripture recently. My thoughts went to the more technical aspect of it...mainly the question of why "east from west?" Why did the writer choose those words specifically?
I wasn't sure so I turned to the person I usually turn to for this kind of question: My husband. He's one of the most brilliant people I know and he usually knows the answer to these things. This time was no different!
He pointed out that when you're walking North eventually you'll hit a pole and start going South. However, if you start walking East you'll always be walking East unless you turn around and start walking West. So, the choice of "east from west" is because they will never meet. There is no "West Pole" or anything. There is no place in the world where they come together.
I like to use little analogies to simplify thoughts. Think about it like this: Think about your sins like a bad TV program. (Bad in the sense of horrible ratings) God canceled it and there are no reruns. As far as He's concerned the show is over forever. However, you have it recorded. Satan comes along and constantly reminds you of the recording and hits play when you least expect it. YOU have the choice to delete it and forget it exists (like God already did). Only you can delete it because you hold the password. So why don't you?
I know I'm horrible about this one! Not only do I allow Satan to come in and push Play, but I grab a bag of popcorn and settle in to watch! I beat myself up about things that have been forgiven (by all parties involved) constantly. So, this Scripture hits home for me and the Challenge I offer is for me as well.
Challenge: Make a conscious effort to tell Satan to BACK OFF the next time he tries to remind you of a sin God forgave.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Just Do It!
Recently I had a pastor bring up a Bible verse that I wanted to share. It takes place when Jesus is at the wedding feast. The verse refers to what His mother tells the servants.
John 2:5 His mother said to the servants, "Do whatever he tells you to do."
Now, if you're wondering where I'm going with this I ask you to read it again. I'll wait...
.
..
...
Did you catch it? "Do whatever he tells you to do." His mother is talking to the servants, but she's also talking to us. We are called to be servants of Christ: Whoever serves me must follow me. Then my servant will be with me everywhere I am. My Father will honor anyone who serves me. (words of Christ) John 12:26 (NCV)
Are you doing all that Christ tells you to do?
Challenge: Read through the words of Christ. Search your heart and ask God to reveal to you where you are and aren't serving Christ.
John 2:5 His mother said to the servants, "Do whatever he tells you to do."
Now, if you're wondering where I'm going with this I ask you to read it again. I'll wait...
.
..
...
Did you catch it? "Do whatever he tells you to do." His mother is talking to the servants, but she's also talking to us. We are called to be servants of Christ: Whoever serves me must follow me. Then my servant will be with me everywhere I am. My Father will honor anyone who serves me. (words of Christ) John 12:26 (NCV)
Are you doing all that Christ tells you to do?
Challenge: Read through the words of Christ. Search your heart and ask God to reveal to you where you are and aren't serving Christ.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Feeling Like THAT Mom
This is the first round of "I Confess"
Lately I've felt like THAT mom. You know the one. You whisper comments about her in the grocery store. You roll your eyes at her at the park. You go home and tell your husband, "You'll never believe the mom I saw today!"
The word that is used to describe my son is "spirited." Parents of spirited children usually refer to these children as "AAAHHHHH!!!!! SERIOUSLY? SERIOUSLY? WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO?!?"
If you Google "spirited child" you get a full description of my son:
Intensity—meaning greater drama, easier cry response, making more demands on parents.
Persistence—gets committed to and stays with ideas, may argue points with parents long after an issue is settled.
High Energy Level—also sometimes labeled hyperactive, but many who write on this disorder do not want the term hyperactivity confused with the disorder.
Sensitive—may be overly sensitive to sounds, slight discomfort, pictures, and stimuli of all sorts.
Difficult Adaptability—may react with greater emotion to changes like attending school, or moving to a new house.
Moody—may be more prone to get cranky, but may also be susceptible to and more perceptive of the moods of others.
*sigh* Yep, that's Franklin.
If you don't have a spirited toddler you have NO idea what it's like raising one. Trust me. He's also incredibly bright so that just adds to my frustration. His temperament causes him to be high energy and intense. I KNOW he understands when he's told "no" (because he says, "no no no" when you catch him doing something he's not supposed to do). He knows the rules. He understands complex instructions. (I told him to find me a bowl to give him breakfast in and he searched the room until he found one and then brought it to me)
As a toddler he lacks impulse control. As a bright child he's inquisitive and constantly exploring and experimenting with his surroundings. As a spirited child he reacts with huge intensity when told "no" and mirrors the frustration of his parents.
Sometimes, when I've said "no" for the 146876351567 time or spanked him 5 times IN A ROW for the same behavior or fought an hour of screaming and kicking to get him to just go to bed, I feel like I'm a horrible mom. There's always that voice in the back of my mind that says, "You caused this." There's always that voice reminding me that I've seen toddlers/children that are MUCH better behaved. There is always that voice that makes me feel like an utter failure. When I sit here with a peaceful, napping toddler I can calmly tell you that voice is Satan and he's trying to steal my joy and make me feel like my children would be better off in daycare. However, in the heat of the moment? I believe every word he slips into my head.
I found this Scripture:
1 Peter 5:8-9 (NCV) Control yourselves and be careful! The devil, your enemy, goes around like a roaring lion looking for someone to eat. Refuse to give in to him, by standing strong in your faith. You know that your Christian family all over the world is having the same kinds of suffering.
My favorite part is the very last where it reminds me that I'm not alone!
Be sure and grab the button!
Do you ever feel like a failure as a parent? Link up below and tell us about it!
Lately I've felt like THAT mom. You know the one. You whisper comments about her in the grocery store. You roll your eyes at her at the park. You go home and tell your husband, "You'll never believe the mom I saw today!"
The word that is used to describe my son is "spirited." Parents of spirited children usually refer to these children as "AAAHHHHH!!!!! SERIOUSLY? SERIOUSLY? WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO?!?"
If you Google "spirited child" you get a full description of my son:
*sigh* Yep, that's Franklin.
If you don't have a spirited toddler you have NO idea what it's like raising one. Trust me. He's also incredibly bright so that just adds to my frustration. His temperament causes him to be high energy and intense. I KNOW he understands when he's told "no" (because he says, "no no no" when you catch him doing something he's not supposed to do). He knows the rules. He understands complex instructions. (I told him to find me a bowl to give him breakfast in and he searched the room until he found one and then brought it to me)
As a toddler he lacks impulse control. As a bright child he's inquisitive and constantly exploring and experimenting with his surroundings. As a spirited child he reacts with huge intensity when told "no" and mirrors the frustration of his parents.
Sometimes, when I've said "no" for the 146876351567 time or spanked him 5 times IN A ROW for the same behavior or fought an hour of screaming and kicking to get him to just go to bed, I feel like I'm a horrible mom. There's always that voice in the back of my mind that says, "You caused this." There's always that voice reminding me that I've seen toddlers/children that are MUCH better behaved. There is always that voice that makes me feel like an utter failure. When I sit here with a peaceful, napping toddler I can calmly tell you that voice is Satan and he's trying to steal my joy and make me feel like my children would be better off in daycare. However, in the heat of the moment? I believe every word he slips into my head.
I found this Scripture:
1 Peter 5:8-9 (NCV) Control yourselves and be careful! The devil, your enemy, goes around like a roaring lion looking for someone to eat. Refuse to give in to him, by standing strong in your faith. You know that your Christian family all over the world is having the same kinds of suffering.
My favorite part is the very last where it reminds me that I'm not alone!
Be sure and grab the button!
Do you ever feel like a failure as a parent? Link up below and tell us about it!
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