On Vacation

I apologize for the lack of posts these past two weeks. I've been "on vacation." 

It isn't really a vacation I'm on. I'm not sitting in an Adirondack chair on the back deck of a mountain cabin overlooking the vista. 

Instead, I'm sitting on my sister's couch, sipping coffee while checking for important emails and updating my facebook status, counting down the minutes until my husband's plane will land and I can hug him for the first time in two weeks.

We will be attending a ball tomorrow night, honoring the twenty years and 1,000 Sundays our beloved pastor has been at CMCC. I will be wearing a gorgeous floor-length red gown while my husband sports a tux for the first time since our wedding day, almost fourteen years ago.

Sunday, our itinerant ministry, Together Ministries, will be ceremoniously ordained (we've been ordained under faithconnect.org for a year or so, but this will serve as our official ceremony). We can't put to words how tremendously honored we are to become an official ministry.

So, although we aren't "officially" on vacation, we have many exciting things going on, requiring us to be away from home and everyday life. So, if my posting seems sparse over the next few days, please forgive me and know that I will return to regular posts next week.

And maybe I'll get to go on a "normal" vacation this fall! That will be nice!

Photo Courtesy of Horton Group

~ Monday Musings ~

Everything is A-Okay

God has truly blessed me with a fine husband. He loves the Lord with all of his heart. He is like a sponge when it comes to the Word of God. Squeeze him and it freely flows forth. We were on the phone today - he's been traveling this past weekend - when I made the comment, "Our children are in their typical form this afternoon." We'd just arrived home from school, and the bickering had already begun. As I busied myself getting the cookie dough orders from the truck while talking to my husband on my cell, a few slaps were thrown and names were called. Why can't they just get along? 

My husband's reply is what caught me off guard and reminded me where my thoughts should be. "The world is falling apart. You need to be thankful our kids are well and healthy." 

It struck a chord inside. He's right. My children are healthy. 

Caleebster was born nine years ago this past Friday. The day the medical staff was releasing him from the hospital, they informed me that he had a heart murmur. My husband hunted my grandfather's hill, two hundred miles away. My mother taught her first grade class and didn't finish until three o'clock that afternoon. My father flew to Texas for an EMT trade show. I was alone and had to make decisions that seemed overwhelming at the time. 

My heart aches today as I hear my nine-year-old throw a temper tantrum over video games, just as it did the day I left the hospital wondering how severe his heart issue was. Would it cause him to struggle and face death? Or, would God heal it and allow us many years with him and his laughter? The questions remain the same as we enter the pre-teen years. Will he heed the wisdom of his parents and learn obedience, allowing himself many years of walking with the Lord? Or will he continue to have heart issues that will lead him far from God's protective wing?

As I raise my children, I continually ask myself what I'm doing wrong. Why do they fight all the time? Why can't they treat each other the way they want to be treated? What am I doing wrong? What can I do differently? Why don't they seem to hear me when I speak?  

I suppose God sits in heaven, wondering the same thing. Why do they insist on fighting in wars? Why do they insist on getting divorced instead of working through the difficulties? Why do they mock me? Why do they disobey me and my Word? I desire only good things for them. I desire to see them in eternity. I desire to share my love with them, rather than my wrath.

Then I ponder the fact that my parents and God could tell me the truth, give me wisdom, and desire for me to make the right choices. But, it ultimately becomes my choice to make. Do I treat others with kindness? Do I choose to love, forgive, and have faith in God to see me through, guiding me in His paths? Or do I choose to carry grudges, despise others, and dismiss God altogether? I'm the only one who can make that choice for myself. No one else can do it for me.

It's the same for my children. I can read the Word, train them up in the way that they should go, and pray for God's divine intervention in their hearts. It then becomes their choice to obey, love, forgive, and live a life with God. When I doubt my parenting abilities because of their poor behaviors and bad attitudes, I have to ask if I've done all I can to train them up in the way they should go. If my answer is yes, then I can rest assured that the Father of all knows my heart's ache for my children. Rather than become frustrated and stuck on the worldly picture in front of me, I have to turn my focus to heavenly matters. I need to put my trust in God that my children will turn out to be the godly woman and men I pray for. 

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;

and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

~ Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)

As Thanksgiving nears, I come before God with an attitude of thanksgiving. I am thankful that my son's hole in his heart healed and did not hinder. I am thankful that my four children are healthy, even when there are days they seem to be deaf to my voice. I know God's voice rings louder than my own. I trust Him to speak to their hearts. In the meantime, I'll continue praying for their futures and their hearts, teaching them the truths found in God's holy word, and doing my best to train them in the way they should go. Thank You, Jesus, for all You are, for all You do, and for completing me. I know that if I stick with You, everything will be a-okay.

~ Monday Musings ~

Scattered Thoughts

Today, my thoughts are rather scattered. I'm yielding it to the fact that I haven't been feeling well lately. Last Tuesday and Wednesday, I suffered with a stuffy head, weighed down like a cement block had formed inside. Friday, I woke at 1:00 in the morning to an upset stomach. After crawling back into bed, I prayed it was only something I ate and not the stomach bug. Yesterday, I spent the day on the couch, not feeling well enough to move. I slept half the day away. And today, I've got a scratchy, irritable throat, congestion has progressed from my head to my chest, and I am surprised I'm not still sleeping on my couch...I guess it's time to see the doctor, before it gets worse.

So, my thoughts aren't streamlined and focused on any one particular thing this morning. I'm considering all I'm getting behind on, being couch-ridden for a day or more. I'm thinking about the upcoming holidays and all the bills that need paying. I'm thinking about what God is doing in our lives at this point in time. I'm wishing I had more to send out right now in hopes of finding a place on the pages of a magazine. I'm considering my Memoir, which I've been plugging away at and getting the rough draft done for NaNoWriMo. I'm thinking of people, friends and family, who I miss and look forward to seeing again very soon. I'm pondering taking my own mini-vacation and getting away for a weekend. I'm wondering if my husband would let me go, if I asked him nicely? I'm looking forward to an opportunity I have next month to share my skills and serve a family I don't even know. 

Yet, despite all of my scattered thoughts, floating around like the autumn leaves falling from the trees, they land in one place at the end. Jesus. As Thanksgiving nears, my thoughts consistently turn to God and all He has done and all He is to me. I can see His hand in everything happening in my life. I know He has orchestrated the events and meetings along the way. I know He has a plan for all of my scattered thinking. When I look to Him for the common thread in the tapestry of my mind, He will be there, shining His light on it. His truth will prevail.

I hope this all made sense. As I said, scattered....

 

~ Monday Musings ~

Homesick: adj. unhappy at being away from home. 


That's what I've been musing about all weekend. Homesickness. I've suddenly found myself longing for the Catskill Mountains, my family, the blessing it is to have my children in a private Christian Academy like CMCA, how happy my children were in Margaretville (with their friends), the wonderful ministry of CMCC, our church family, and yes, even some of that cold, white stuff we call snow...


Now, mind you, I've been telling God for the past three years that if He were to send us back North, He'd have to work a major miracle in my heart, because I've fallen in love with the South. New York is always super busy, rush, rush, go here, go there, get out of my way! The South has been relaxing for me. I've been amazed at how often people will kindly allow you into their lane of traffic, holding everyone up behind them to let you in. I've also enjoyed friendly conversations with perfect strangers in the Wal-Mart checkout line. That doesn't happen in New York (99.9% of the time, anyway). People there just aren't that friendly. 


So, I find myself asking God why I'm so weepy and have this deep desire to go home. Am I merely homesick, or is He preparing me for things yet to come? Is it just because the holidays are looming before us? Or is He answering the heart cries of my children? 


I'm not certain (yet) of what God has in store for the new year, but in prayer, He's told me it's something great. Whatever it is, I know one thing...


I'll be home for Christmas...You can count on me...Please have snow and mistletoe...And presents on the tree...

~Tuesday Tips~

"Bring all the tithes into the storehouse" ~ Malachi 3:10

A tithe is giving ten percent of your income to the Lord. This was a new concept to me when I first came to know Jesus as my Lord and Savior. However, just as the commandment to honor your father and mother comes with a promise, so does tithing.

 

"'And try Me now in this,' says the Lord of hosts,

'If I will not open for you the windows in heaven

And pour out for you such blessing

That there will not be room enough to receive it.'"  

~ Malachi 3:10

 

The Lord promises that when we bring our tithes into His storehouse, He will pour out blessings on us. We will have so much we cannot receive all of it for ourselves. Our own storehouses will not be large enough to contain it. 

 

See, God's math is different than ours. While we are adding up the bills and subtracting out of our checking (and sometimes savings) account, God is multiplying. He is thinking of turning our five loaves and two fish into enough to feed a multitude. In Malachi He says to bring the tithes into the storehouse "That there may be food in My house." He wants to give us increase and blessings in order that His house may have more to share. "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." (Matthew 6:33) When we put God first, He is able to do far more in our lives and the lives of others.

 

"'And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes,

 So that he will not destroy the fruit of your ground,

 Nor shall the vine fail to bear fruit for you in the field,'

 Says the Lord of hosts."

~ Malachi 3:11

 

This is the second promise which results from our tithe. God will rebuke the devourer. The devourer is the seed killer. He is the one who comes against all of our efforts, labors and plantings. He steals what we sow. He kills our attempts at earning a living, planting spiritual seeds and bringing in a harvest. God promises that when we put Him first in our finances, He will rebuke the devourer for our sakes. He will no longer have the power to come against our attempts at getting ahead in life. 

 

I have experienced the effects of tithing firsthand. 

 

There have been times when we've been super tight and I've withheld the tithe in an effort to keep food on our table. Only, instead of having enough provision, things became more and more difficult. Our bills weren't paid on time. We'd overdraw the checking account, wasting hundreds of dollars as we paid overdraft fees.

 

But no sooner than I changed my heart-itude and returned to faithful tithing did God come through. The devourer was rebuked and we had all that we needed, if not more. It's during these times that we have plenty of food and some to spare or share. It's during these times that our savings account would grow. It's during these times that work would be in plenty. Layoffs would be fewer. (My husband's in construction.) It's during these times I'd have a little extra to do something special for the kids. It's during these times we could even increase our giving and we'd have offerings for guest ministers or felt needs in the body of Christ (the church). 

 

God's word never comes back void. If He says it is so, it is. If He promises blessings will flow, they will flow. Be encouraged today. 

 

My tip? Tithe. It's the only place in the Bible where God says, "Challenge me and see what I do." Take the challenge. Bring your tithe into the storehouse this Sunday. Bless the Lord with your firstfruits. He provided them in the first place. They belong to Him already. See what He can do with them. He's into multiplication!  

~ Monday Musings ~

This Monday, I am musing over finances. For awhile we were doing fairly well, the tithes were in the storehouse, the bills were paid on time and we were slowly chipping away at debt. The only thing lacking was saving, but we were even able to set aside a little here and there, once in awhile. 


I've read Dave Ramsey's material, taken a Crown Financial course through our local church and listened to or read the advice of many. Unfortunately, I lack in the application area. I try really hard for several months and then throw my hands up in the air in frustration when we have a tight month. The cupboards are barer than I like, the kids are outgrowing their shoes and pants at beanstalk rate and the checkbook is spent before the paycheck arrives in our account.


This month, we are making it a point to straighten out our finances. We aren't horribly in debt. Fortunately, we've never gotten ourselves buried under credit card debt. No. Our thousands owed are on my student loan and our mortgage. Our only unnecessary debt is our truck payment, which we deem a necessity due to moving with my husband's job. We rely on our vehicle to tow our belongings and comfortably seat our four growing children. At least we did our homework and purchased a used vehicle that won't lose its value as quickly as others.


In my recent worrying over money matters, God has reminded me of several scriptures that deal with finances and heart-itudes. I've been reminded that I need to seek first the kingdom of God and all these things will be added unto me. (Matt. 6:33) I've been reminded that I can't love both God and money, lest I love the one and despise the other. (Matt. 6:24) I've been reminded that when times get tough and I want to buy food for the table rather than tithe, I need to give God his money first and let Him provide our physical needs. (Malachi 3:10-11) I've remembered that God does not give His children stones when they ask for a piece of bread. (Matthew 7:9, 11) 

To top it off, our pastor preached on Revelation or Situation this Sunday. His message was about whether we were allowing our circumstances and situations to determine our position in life. This applies to finances, as well as any number of things. Am I going to allow the appearance of my bank account determine where my faith lies? No. God is my Jehovah Jireh, My Provider. His grace is sufficient for all my needs, including those financial. I am a daughter of the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, the One who owns all things. When I recognize that all I have is His, I need not worry about what I will eat, drink or wear this week. He knows I need these things. I will concern myself with eternity instead. 

The kingdom of heaven is at hand. What will we do with our eternal riches this week? I'd love to hear your thoughts! Feel free to comment and invite your friends to join in!

~ Family Friday ~

My husband and I decided early in our children's lives that we would honor God during Halloween. We would no longer participate in the annual rituals of Halloween, dressing children up in scary costumes and taking them around town to gather hoards of candy.


I remember the year I decided trick-or-treating was no longer for us. My children and I had walked the back streets of our small hometown. For most of the night, we hadn't encountered anything too spooky or spirit-cringing. Until we were halfway down the final street. This particular house was decorated in honor of evil spirits. Several half-drunk adults were in the front yard handing out candy to small children. No sooner than I'd reached the edge of their property with my children did I feel the spiritual darkness exuding from it. We skipped that house. And we never went trick-or-treating again.


Am I against children dressing up and going door-to-door asking for candy once a year? No. I am against the use of evil and spooky costumes. My children don't need to have nightmares for a week after witnessing someone wearing a scary mask that squirts blood down its face. I am against calling on evil spirits in the name of having fun (or for any other reason). 

I am for a time of fun and bringing honor to God for the harvest He has provided. Hence, our annual attendance at our church's Harvest Party. Dressing up in God-honoring costumes and playing games like bobbing for apples and hay bale bowling can be more fun than trick-or-treating! Watching my husband spend a few minutes in "jail" until someone bails him out with a quarter is fantastic fund-raising for the children's ministry. I support it wholeheartedly.


What are some things your church offers as an alternative to Halloween? Feel free to leave a comment!

~ Thursday Ten ~

Since it's the time of year when our children come home with a lot of candy,

here's my list of the ten things I look for in their bags... ;) 

(What mom doesn't enjoy partaking of their treats? 

We worked hard to get the kids into costumes and take them out to get the treats, right?)

1. Reese's Peanut Butter Cups

2. Reese's Pieces

3. Hershey Chocolate Bars

4. Snickers

5. Milky Ways

6. Milk Duds

7. Nerds (a childhood favorite)

8. Sweet Tarts

9. Now and Laters

10. Tootsie Rolls

~Tuesday Tips~

My husband and I celebrated 12 years of marriage on Sunday. Those who've been married a short time are in awe when the number 12 is mentioned. Those who've been married a long time smile and nod their heads. If only I could hear their thoughts...what would they sound like? "Twelve is such a small number." "You've got a long way to go." "Just wait until you see what's around the corner. " "Wow. That's nice."

Vic and I have been blessed with the opportunity to pour into a few married couples within the past year. It's not something that we take lightly, marriage. In fact, it's something that we honor as a God-ordained covenant between a man and a woman. Marriage was God's idea, not man's and it traces all the way back to the Garden of Eden.


Some of the marital advice or "tips" I've found us sharing repeatedly (seems every couple can benefit from these) are (in no particular order):


Never go to bed angry. Ephesians 4:26-27 says, "Do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil." Any time that we go to sleep without resolving a disagreement with our spouse, we give place to the devil. Seeds of bitterness, doubt, malice, contempt and others have the opportunity to grow overnight. In the morning, we are faced with a tree of discontent where there was only a tiny sprout the night before. Always resolve disagreements before you close your eyes, even if you can only agree to disagree. Kiss each other and fall asleep knowing there won't be a tree needing to be pulled out by its roots when the sun rises.

Proper order in the home is important. Biblical structure for relational priorities is this: First, your relationship with God. Next, your relationship with your spouse. Third, you and your spouse's relationship with your children. Fourth, serving the church. Fifth, your responsibilities such as your career. If any of these ever gets out of order, your relationships will suffer. Putting your job as a priority over spending time with your children simply because you need to feed them is not God's idea. He is the provider of all things before you are. Putting ministry needs or classes at church above your family's needs is not acceptable. Your ministry starts in your home (See 1 Timothy 3).


Don't keep secrets. I'm not talking about dumping out your filthy past on your spouse. There's no need to burden him or her with your sin record. I'm talking about current issues. I'm talking about the times that you overdraw the checking account. I'm talking about forgetting to tell them about your plans for next weekend because you don't want them to find out you didn't include them. I'm talking about hiding things from them because you don't feel like involving them or hearing their input concerning a situation. Keeping secrets will erode trust faster than paint stripper removes paint. Another form of keeping secrets? Talking about your spouse behind their back. If you know they would feel violated by you speaking with your best friend about their faults or your recent argument, don't do it. 

Only God can change your spouse. We all come with strengths and weaknesses. There is going to be something in everyone we love that we can't stand. What we were willing to overlook during courtship should still be overlooked in marriage, unless it's a threat to you or your spouse's life. If you didn't like the way he smelled his socks every time he took them off while you were dating, you still won't like it when you're married. But it's nothing to hold against him. If you don't like the way he treats his mother before you marry him, don't marry him. It's likely that character flaw won't change and he'll be treating you that way once his ring is on your finger and you've said, "I do." If you've recently discovered that he has anger issues and they've only surfaced now that you two are wed, pray. If he isn't abusing you in his fit of anger, suggest he get counsel and pray for God to remove that angry spirit from him. You can't love him enough to heal him. Only God can make that change. (And if he is abusing you, verbally or physically, seek godly counsel and refuge. It'll only get worse until he admits he's got a problem and desires to get help to change.)

Step-families are a whole other ball game, but priorities in the home should stay the same. Step-families are all different. Relational dynamics are different. Some spouses still get along with their ex. Some tolerate their ex for the childrens' sake. Others can't stand their ex and everyone around them knows it. In our situation, my husband has a son from a previous marriage. I had no children and had never been married before. The key to keeping a second (or third, fourth, or fifth) marriage intact? PUT YOUR NEW SPOUSE FIRST. I can't say that loud enough. Remember the order in the home previously mentioned? Seek God first. Then comes your wife (marriage). Then comes child 1, 2, 3 in the baby carriage. It doesn't matter if your son or daughter or clan is your child from a previous marriage/relationship. Your wife or husband is your priority. Your children will grow up and leave home one day. You'll either stand with your wife and wave goodbye as they leave your home or you'll stand alone as they move on to their adult lives. If you and your spouse are on the same page with each other concerning parenting tactics (which should be discussed prior to saying "I do"), you'll have nothing to worry about. 

These are just a few pieces of advice and wisdom we've been sharing with others as we've begun to minister to married couples. There's plenty more that we've learned, figured out, been taught or received counsel on in our twelve years together. The one thing we always remember before anything else is this: marriage requires hard work in order to maintain a healthy relationship. Without effort from both of us, we wouldn't be where we are today. Happy. Excited. Content. More in love with each other today than on our wedding day.

~ Thursday Ten ~

Ten Parenting/Marriage Books I Keep On My Shelf At All Times

(To see more on each book, click the title/author line for a link.)

1. Love and Respect - Dr. Emerson Eggerichs

This book is extremely valuable in understanding how to communicate what your spouse needs. (Men need respect. Women need love.) I would recommend giving this book as a wedding gift to every couple getting married. It's that good.

2. Boundaries (In Marriage) (With Kids) - Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend

Boundaries are extremely important to understand. A boundary is where you end and another person begins. If people don't understand boundaries, they feel free to walk all over whoever they wish. They don't necessarily realize that they are stepping on someone else's toes. It's very important to teach children boundaries when they are young so that they can be considerate and mature adults. There is also a general Boundaries book for individuals.

3. The Five Love Languages - Gary Chapman

Mr. Chapman has also written The Five Love Languages of Children and The Five Love Languages of Teenagers. My husband and I used this book in our home group (cell group) one year. It got everyone's attention and encouraged some really great discussions. The book focuses on how we receive love and affection and how we tend to give love and affection. Since everyone has their own way of receiving love, it's important to know how to speak their love language. You can try to speak your own to them but don't be surprised when they don't receive it as you'd have liked.

4. Wild Things the art of nurturing boys - Stephen James and David Thomas

This is a must-have if you are a mom trying to raise boys. I've gotten more out of this book when it comes to why my boys behave the way they do than any other book on raising boys I've ever read. It is a wealth of information ranging from their physical make-up to child development to everyday stories of boys being boys. HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT.

5. Bringing Up Boys/Bringing Up Girls - Dr. James Dobson

Dr. Dobson is still one of my favorite parenting "experts" to turn to when raising my children. I think next week I'll post the Ten Books on Parenting/Marriage I Wish I Had on My Shelf... There are a few he's authored that I still desire to obtain for my collection. I enjoyed reading Bringing Up Boys and Bringing Up Girls is at the top of my list of next books to buy (since it recently released...).

6. Shepherding a Child's Heart - Tedd Tripp

I wish I'd found this book earlier. It is a great resource for figuring out exactly what a child's heart needs vs. typical parenting and discipline strategies. I can tell you this: I need to read it again. And probably again after that. It's that good. And I need a few reminders...

7. Personality Plus for Parents - Florence Littauer

I was extremely grateful when a friend of mine, who's finishing up her counseling degree, told me about this book. I'd had Personality Plus on my shelves since before I was married. Personality Plus for Parents gave me a better understanding of my sons' and my daughter's personalities and how they affect what goes on in our home and our relationships. There are pointers with each personality type that will assist parents with applying the kids' strengths and helping them to overcome their weaknesses.

8. The Smart Stepmom - Ron L. Deal and Laura Petherbridge

I wish this book had been written ten years ago!!! I have already helped raise my step-son and we've sent him on to college. The content in this book is most of what I felt and dealt with on a daily basis for the ten years that I was in the position of step-mom in my home. I'd received a generous amount of council and advice from people who never experienced being a step-mom and not all of it was as wise as others thought. This book reinforced a lot of what I attempted to work through. I am grateful for it now and wish I'd had it then! If you are a mother or a father who has a wife or husband who is in a step-parenting role, this is a MUST READ for you, too! Spouses desperately need to come to an understanding of these roles in their households. No one can do it alone. (The authors have also written The Smart Stepfamily and, coming soon, The Smart Stepdad.) 

9. In Praise of Stay-at-Home Moms - Dr. Laura Schlessinger

We made the decision before our first son was born that I would stay home and raise our family. At the time, we were both in agreement on this matter. Since that glorious day that I was able to leave the career world behind and begin my life as "Mom", we've had our moments of wondering if it was such a good idea. I have never wavered in my desire to be home with and for my kids. My husband has had occasional moments of wanting more income in our household budget. Sometimes I'd like to share this book with him. But for the most part, it's been a great journey in life. I wouldn't trade it for anything. Any stay-at-home mom should read this book. It's encouraging to know that we are not alone! 

10. Okay, so I ran out...but what book is the most important book on marriage and parenting of all?  The Bible... My bookshelf will never be without it.  

 

~ Monday Musings ~

Goober Pea turned six on Sunday. Like a good mom, I sent out eight birthday party invitations to his little friends, inviting them to join us at the park for a celebration. I spent time and money (and asked my husband to postpone his plans) preparing for the big day. 

We arrived at the park early, setting the table with the red, plastic cloth that tried to blow away as we laid out Gatorade bottles and cupcake containers in order to hold it down. Balloons tugged against their knot, desiring to float off into the blue skies. Sweat dripped down my face as I stuffed Toy Story 3 cups with Sour Patch Kids, Double Bubble and Silly Bands. 

We sat and waited. The kids ran off to play on the tire swing and monkey bars. Two-fifteen arrived but no guests had. Two-thirty came and went, as well as several vehicles. None dropped off kids to join the party. 

My heart sank with the weight of a sandbag as I considered that no one came to my son's birthday party. How do you explain to a six-year-old that people were too busy that day to celebrate his birthday?


God had another plan, however. Gideon found a "new friend" that day. One little guy happened to be at the playground with his dad. Gideon happily shared his birthday cupcakes and his cups of candy with his buddy. 

His dad shared that they normally go to another park and had decided to come there. I realized in that moment God had intervened and blessed my son with a birthday party guest who wasn't invited by me.

~ Monday Musings ~

This weekend was challenging. Vic was out of town, visiting family in New York. That means that kids were acting out of their distress or knowledge that Daddy wasn't here. By Friday night (Vic left Thursday night), three were grounded. No video games. No TV. No toys. Only pens and paper and their imaginations to entertain them. By the end of the weekend, I found I like them better that way. No arguing over who gets to pick next, who gets to play next, or who gets to be first. The rest of the weekend was spent giggling and being creative and playing Red Light, Green Light. They got along. There was no fighting, hitting or name calling. Maybe they should stay grounded...?

Through God's grace I have discovered this about myself: I have come a long, long way from where and who I was as a young Christian to the place of maturity that God has me in today. I do believe that I know how to handle myself with grace and poise. I also am fully aware that one can never learn enough about God. He is always new and exciting and fresh, if we just look around the next corner or bend as we walk with Him.

It amazes me how much writing one can do when passionate about a subject. I must have written at least three articles or chapters of a book or a whole devotional this weekend. At least, I spoke it into the air. Maybe I should have written it down? (I did get some of it out on paper...just not as much as I'd have liked.) I'm so glad that several ministers and other writers have said that we are not crazy because we talk to ourselves out loud. In reality, it's a way of processing those thoughts running around in my head, as well as it being a conversation with God.

I have to leave in ten minutes to pick my children up from school, so I close with this thought: I'm so thankful, incredibly, very thankful, for my husband and our marriage. The key to making it last? Put God first before each other, put each other first before others after that, and work through all trials and tribulations. God didn't say it wouldn't take work. He did say that what He has joined together, no man (or woman) should put asunder. Why make your marriage another statistic? Why not allow it to bring God the glory?

Who Is Your Confidence?

Step-mothering is one of the most difficult roles I've had to live out in my life. At times, things would be great. Everyone involved in the situation would  be in agreement, walk in unity, and enjoy the journey. Other days I had to rely on God, as the enemy came at me full force. My every decision, word, or action would be scrutinized, criticized, and held under a magnifying glass. During these times, I went to battle in prayer, and I knew that God had given me directives and a plan. The battles were never easy to fight but I had to stand my ground. In the years to come, I would be able to give God the glory for the victories won.


Every one of us face similar battles in life. I'm not talking about overcoming spiritual giants that have resulted from our personal sin. I'm talking about the unjust accusations from others. I'm talking about the times when we know that we are lined up with God's will and are following His directives. Yet, the enemy is advancing. Names are being called. Mud covers our faces. We face shame and defeat. The question is, will we set our faces like flint and know for certain that God will help us through?


Isaiah 50:5-9 tell a scene of Jesus facing His accusers. I am truly amazed at how He gave of Himself and trusted God, His Father, to help Him. When He was on the cross, He cried out to God, asking Him why He'd forsaken Him. Doesn't that sound like our hearts' cries when we face the adversary? God, why have You forsaken me? Why do I feel so alone right now, with all of these people accusing me of things I have not done, things I have not said? Why do I feel as if I'm wide open for the world to throw rotten and vile things at?


"The Lord God has opened My ear; And I was not rebellious, Nor did I turn away." (v. 5)
We could respond to their pressure and accusations by rebelling against God and turning from His truths. We could stop listening to Him and His wisdom. We could become one of the accusers and leave the cross behind. But Jesus didn't...

"I gave My back to those who struck Me, And My cheeks to those who plucked out the beard; I did not hide My face from shame and spitting." (v. 6)
We could fight back, as Peter drew his sword in the Garden of Gethsemane. Or, we could respond as Jesus did, turning the other cheek, forgiving those who came against Him, for they knew not what they did. It may feel shameful to be spit upon, but it's not about us. It's about Jesus and what He did for us. Vengeance is the Lord's, not ours.

"For the Lord God will help Me; Therefore I will not be disgraced; Therefore I have set My face like a flint, And I know that I will not be ashamed." (v. 7)
Jesus had His confidence in the Lord before He ever went to the cross. He knew God would be glorified and would come to His aid. His esteem did not come from those who accused Him. His purpose came from God. 

"He is near who justifies Me; Who will contend with Me? Let us stand together. Who is My adversary? Let him come near Me." (v. 8)
God justifies us, just as He justified Jesus as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, the Messiah. When our lives truly belong to God and we are following in His footsteps, we have nothing else to fear. God is love, and perfect Love (Jesus) casts out all fear. Our adversaries cannot touch us in the end if we truly believe that God is who He says He is. He is the One who justifies us. If God is for us, none can be against us. Jesus overcame the enemy. God raised Him from the dead and placed Him at His right hand in heaven. He was glorified, and the enemy was overcome.

When we strive to be like Jesus, to be obedient to God, even in the midst of our adversaries, He will always be near, ready to help in times of need. Our confidence needs to be in Him, not ourselves, not other people, not material things. Jesus saves.  
   

Just In Case...

...you've been wondering if I disappeared, I have not. I have been super duper busy over the past month, and against my will, my writing hasn't been as frequent as I'd like it to be. What have I been up to, you ask? Well...

I spent a week in NY visiting family and friends and moving stuff around again. During our stay, I took a lot of great pictures of my grandparents' farm, which Grandma has recently sold. I figured I'd better get the photographs of the memory-filled place before I didn't have that access anymore...

 The Farmhouse

 The Hill

Grandpa's Hill stands for cows grazing in hilltop pastures, casual walks up the path just because, deer hunting stories and many trophy bucks throughout the years (just ask my husband).

The Barn
Many childhood days were spent jumping from new heights in the hay mound, helping Grandpa milk the cows or bottle feed calves, and feeding the chickens...




On our return from NY, we decided to actually enjoy part of our vacation, and we drove the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. Our 16 hour trip turned into 20, but I was able to get some fantastic photographs, like these:

I had one day after our trip to NY to rest and get organized before I headed off on my own to the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer's Conference. It's always amazing to me when God orchestrates something in my life. He set me up with the best roommate I could ever hope for, the best teachers a girl could want, and the encouragement that I desperately needed. I left from there knowing that I have a definite call on my life and with all of my questions answered. I also met the greatest people around - other wierdos like me...we're really not that wierd...unless we're milking each other. But, I don't have that picture...

Me with...Vonda Skelton, Edie Melson and Mary Denman, & Michelle Medlock Adams

 

Since my return, I have managed to write a little bit. I plan to do a lot more writing once the children are finished with school. In the meantime, I have been pouring myself into the education of my four lovely children. Some days are easier than others. Sometimes I see a hint of normalcy in our crazy life. But through it all, God's presence is in our midst. I couldn't be more thankful.

The Bread of Life

But He answered and said, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.'" - Matthew 4:4 

Bread only satisfies for so long. Then we hunger again. When we live acccording to the Word of God, we find satisfaction and abundant life. The hunger ceases. We no longer feel empty inside, trying to find something to fill that gnawing void. Are you feeling satisfied today, or is it time to partake of the Bread of Life?

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God." - John 1:1-2 (Jesus is the Word. He was always obedient to His Father's will. His words were God's words.)

"I am the bread of life...I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread that I shall give is My flesh, which I shall give for the life of this world." - John 6:48, 51 (Jesus is the bread of life, and He gave Himself for the life of this world...forgiveness of our sins and reconciliation of humankind with God the Father. Through His blood and broken body, we find eternal life with God.)

Just a little something to chew on... How has the Bread of Life, the Word, satisfied you?

~ Whirlwind Week ~

The plates are spinning, and so is my head! It's one of those months where I have a lot going on, and it's all I can do to keep my feet on the ground, my head on straight, and not feel like I'm caught up in a whirlwind that will have me dizzy and flat on my face by the time it's done.

The good news is, it's all exciting, fun, and God-centered. And with God in the midst of all that is going on, I am sure to stand through it all.

First, there's a 15 hour road trip, one way. It could be 13, but my wise hubby thinks we should avoid back roads, stick to the main highway, and travel swiftly in the night hours. I tend to agree, because our four children can sleep and won't need to stop for fast food and potty breaks every four hours.

Then, there's going through Grandpa and Grandma's farm house, pulling treasures from the past for safe keeping for following generations to enjoy. My Grandpa passed away last November, and Grandma just bought the smaller home that she needs. Sometimes, we just can't keep up with the bigger things in life, and we need to slow down and enjoy it on a smaller level. This holds true in more categories of life than homes...
I'm honestly thankful that I have the opportunity to claim some of these long-admired treasures. I missed that opportunity when my father's parents sold their estate, and it's something that even a ten year old can understand the ache of...watching the items that your fond memories are built around sold out from under your grasp.

Following that, it's on to "home" to clear out our own house. Just as there are times when downsizing is a necessity, there are times when getting out from under things are a necessity, freeing one up for future successes. Fortunately, we have a potential buyer. We are excited about this change, as it will open up a whole new season in our life and our walk with God. We are thankful that we hear His voice and know when it is time to move on from one season or town to the next. Unlike the children of Israel, we won't be spending a lifetime wandering in the wilderness. It's time to move on...there goes the cloud of glory.

Even more exciting than the potential sale of our house is the opportunity to visit with beloved friends and family. When God is in the center of one's relationships, ties are bound tighter and are not loosed easily. Even miles cannot keep the heart from yearning for those one loves. Fathers. Mothers. Brothers. Sisters. Church family. Best friends. Those who know your deepest secrets and could write your autobiography themselves. Childhood friends who are missed so much you wish you could live with Grandma...instead of Mom and Dad. (My son knows that one well.) It will be difficult to leave again at the end of this journey, but one cannot forgo the opportunity to visit.

Then, it's another 13 hour drive to return to our latest "home." Upon returning, I have an entire 24 hours (not enough time in a day, some days) to unpack, wash laundry, grocery shop, pack myself, polish manuscripts/articles/devotionals, and rest in time to hit the road again Sunday morning.

This time, I journey alone...although God is driving on this trip. So, I guess I'm not alone. This is a new adventure. This is a life-changing course I am on. I will be attending my first writer's conference and visiting a beautiful place that (I am told) will impact me in ways that I can only imagine. I only hope that in the midst of workshops, classes, and dinner with faculty that I have time to hike that mountain and take in the breath-taking scenery that God has provided just for my soul. God truly is amazing, and this writer knows that He is real. No one could convince me otherwise, not after I've seen and experienced His hand in my life for the past ten years. Not after I've witnessed His sunsets painted in the evening skies. Not after I've experienced His faithfulness in providing for me and my family as the world around us falls apart. Not after I've witnessed His ability to change my life, to take me from a deep, dark place and bring me out into His glorious light. Not after I've heard His voice call me in a new direction in life, saying, "Trust Me. I will do it." And so, I hand Him the wheel. And I make a new journey into the world of writing for His glory.

Sometimes we feel like we're being pulled in 100 different directions, but if we take the time to stop, stand still, and know that He is God, we realize that we're really headed in only One direction...His calling on our lives. Closer to Him. Into His will. On His path.

Bless the Lord, O my soul!

Psalm 103:1-5 reads:
"Bless the Lord, O my soul;
And all that is within me, bless His holy name!
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
And forget not all His benefits:
Who forgives all your iniquities,
Who heals all your diseases,
Who redeems your life from destruction,
Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,
Who satisfies your mouth with good things,
So that your youth is renewed like the eagle's."

There is a lot in our life that we can complain about. Our bills are past due. Our boss is demanding that we have to work overtime. We can't find our keys this morning. The coffee pot quit. Our kids are whining non-stop.  Someone at church offended us.

However, complaining gets us nowhere but in a tizzy. Complaining adds bitterness and strife to our day. It has a domino affect and we start to pick out every little thing that goes wrong throughout the day. We tell anyone who will listen about the slacker at work whose responsibilities get thrown to our desk. We tell anyone who will listen about our obnoxious kids and their refusal to do things our way. We forget that these words are not life-giving and bring no glory to God.

This morning, I will choose to praise the Lord. I will bless His holy name for all that He has done for me.

The Lord has many benefits. He has forgiven me of many iniquities, including (but not limited to) selfishness, rebellion, disrespect of my parents, murder, hatred, strife, fornication, and more. He has healed all of my diseases, both physically and mentally. He has healed me of depression, anxiety, and injury. He redeemed my life from destruction. I was on the highway to hell, and he set me free from bondage and death! He crowns me with His lovingkindness and tender mercies. He satisfies my mouth with good things. I partake of His table every day. My youth is renewed as the eagle's. When I read His word and pray, I hear from the Lord. I receive a joy inexplicable, even in the midst of my circumstances and in dealing with my issues. Jesus is King in my life!

What has God done for you and in your life? Bless His name today! Don't let the enemy have his way...

~ Wisdom for Wednesday ~

GRASSHOPPERS

"There we saw the giants (the descendants of Anak come from the giants); and we were like grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight."  ~ Numbers 13:33

*Note: When I read this verse, I realized that the Israelites who did not enter the Promised Land were in lack of confidence in themselves and in God...they saw themselves as small in comparison to others, and they then perceived that the giants in their lives saw them as small, as well, even though the giants never saw the spies...*

"Above all the grace and the gifts that Christ gives to His beloved is that of overcoming self." ~ Francis of Assisi

"I know the power obedience has of making things easy which seem impossible." ~ Mother Teresa

"Obedience is an act of faith; disobedience is the result of unbelief."

~ Edwin Louis Cole