tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45219162525483898482024-03-13T23:38:52.151-07:00Rachel Hall and AllAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09104261234011118651noreply@blogger.comBlogger10125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4521916252548389848.post-3142947921600711012014-01-10T10:11:00.000-08:002014-01-10T10:11:29.209-08:00On the Verge<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don't have anything in particular to write about today...but I'm going to write anyway. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Because I want to. So there!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Because of weather issues, the kids started school one hour late today. Oh my Goodness! They were so ready to get out of the house this morning. The combination of the holiday break, weather too cold for being outside much, and an inclement weather day two days after returning from break has left my children with heaps of pent up energy. I'm concerned for their teachers today...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I think I know how a little of how my children feel. I've had a stirring in my spirit lately that I am on the verge of great things. Big changes, for me personally and our family as a whole. So much that I have been cleaning out the kids' rooms and organizing cabinets. What is up with that??</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I have also felt a longing to spend more time in the Word and in prayer. I want to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and make sure it's His leading I'm following in new directions. New things sometimes involve moving out of our comfort zone a little bit. I know that will be a part of it. And I want the presence of Jesus to be with me more than ever. More than anything I want to be a light for HIm, so He receives the glory, through whatever new things or changes He brings into my life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What about you? Are you feeling stirred to move toward or away from something?</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09104261234011118651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4521916252548389848.post-17571005684160863002014-01-08T19:30:00.000-08:002014-01-09T06:53:09.926-08:002014 ~ A Great Year to be IntentionalIt has been months since I have written anything...months. Way. Too. Long. I'd be lying if I said that didn't frustrate me. I had grand intentions of writing a couple times a week. Um...Yeah...<br />
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Here we are on January 8, barely over a week into the new year. (Happy Birthday, Dad! And Elvis...). <br />
I've been spending a lot of time praying, reading, and seeking God for direction personally, and for our family, for this upcoming year. I've read several things about all the New Year's Resolutions that get made...and broken by the end of January...or March at the latest. Not so much into those. It's almost like they're made to be broken. I've also read several things about asking God to give you a word for the year. I like this idea! It's not some unattainable goal you set for yourself only to be disappointed before Valentine's Day because you failed. Who needs that?? It's one word that you let sink into your spirit to help keep your focus throughout the year. A reminder. Not necessarily of a specific thing to accomplish, but the direction you want to be moving in. So much more grace in this concept...and personally, I love me some grace!<br />
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My word...(drum roll, please) is...<i style="font-weight: bold;">Intentional.</i><br />
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I get so busy and so bogged down with kids, laundry, ministry, dishes, just "life" stuff that days go by and I'm wondering what happened. I was going to do this, or have coffee with her, or write, or organize this space, memorize this scripture with the kids. Not cool! It's like running in a hamster wheel. Busy...but getting nowhere. I'm over it.<br />
I believe this year is going to involve some big changes for our family. Good changes. God has great plans for our lives. I don't want to miss out on anything he has planned for us. My goal is to live with more intention. I want to be more <i>intentional</i> in spending time with my kiddos. They are growing up way too fast. There will always be laundry...it can wait...not indefinitely...but long enough for me to read a story or play a game. :) I want to be more<i> intentional</i> in my prayer life and Scripture reading. I'm working with reading plans to help me stay on track. I want to be more <i>intentional</i> about memorizing Scripture and teaching it to my children. We are doing this plan. <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2014/01/scripture-memorization-for-the-rest-of-us-the-jesus-project-memoryproject2014/">The Jesus Project</a>. I'm really excited about it! We are also taking <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/joy-dares/">The Joy Dare</a> and counting gifts. I want to write more. I want to organize and write down recipes so my girls can learn to cook when I'm not around...or in the other room reading...:)<br />
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I know you probably think some of those sound a lot like resolutions...but I want to think of them more as goals to move toward...<i>intentionally</i>. I will <i>intentionally</i> make choices and put plans in place and hit the snooze button a few less times to move in the direction of these goals. I know there will be times when I get off course and I'll need to give myself some grace, read this post, and refocus on my word and be <i>intentional</i> about moving in the right direction again.<br />
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Would you like to take this journey with me? Ask God to give you a word for the year to help keep you focused in moving towards your goals and dreams. <br />
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<a href="http://www.faithbarista.com/join-faith-barista-jam-thursdays/" target="blank"><img src="http://www.faithbarista.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/OneWord2014_Badge.jpg" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09104261234011118651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4521916252548389848.post-21904423469003838332013-11-01T08:44:00.000-07:002013-11-01T08:44:39.891-07:00The Only Way To Make It<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sometimes it is hard to get out of bed in the morning. Sometimes it is hard to face the day. The pressure of life bears down so much that it is difficult to even take a breath. Life is hard. People change. People fail us. Circumstances change. Jobs go. Finances change. Children push back against rules. Dishes are dirty. Laundry piles up. Some days it all just crushes down and I just. Can't. Breathe.</span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">November. The month of remembering to be thankful. Posting our thanks on our Facebook. It's all good. However, when it's only in November, it becomes trite. It's almost like, "Whatever...everyone is thankful this month." This is not how it should be! It's not how we make it. Not how we continue to breathe.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">God gave us the formula. It's not just being thankful in November. It's the giving thanks is ALL things. </span></div>
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<i><span style="color: purple;"><span class="text 1Thess-5-16" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: purple;"><span class="text 1Thess-5-16" id="en-NIV-29638" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Rejoice always,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29638A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text 1Thess-5-17" id="en-NIV-29639" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;"> </span>pray continually,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29639B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text 1Thess-5-18" id="en-NIV-29640" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;"> </span>give thanks in all circumstances;<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29640C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></span> for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18</span></span></i></div>
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<span class="text 1Thess-5-18" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's so simple, yet I forget. And this giving of thanks is not just about the <i>things</i> as much as it is about <i>Him.</i></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><span class="text 1Thess-5-18" style="background-color: white;"><i><span class="text 1Chr-16-34" id="en-NIV-10855" style="position: relative;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Give thanks<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-10855A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></span> to the </span><span class="small-caps" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, for he is good;</span><span style="font-family: monospace;"><span style="font-size: 7px; line-height: 0px;"> </span></span></span><span class="indent-1" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="text 1Chr-16-34" style="position: relative;">his love endures forever. </span></span></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><span class="text 1Thess-5-18" style="background-color: white;"><i><span class="indent-1" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="text 1Chr-16-34" style="position: relative;">1 Chronicles 16:34</span></span></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Whatever challenge or circumstance I am in the middle of...He is always good. His love is forever. I am wrapped up in it. His grace is enough. <i> He is enough. </i>These things are sure! My life will begin to change as much as I give thanks. In His presence is "fullness of joy" (Psalm 16:11). And how do we enter His presence?</span><div>
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<i><span style="color: purple;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Enter his gates with thanksgiving </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">and his courts</span><span class="crossreference" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15513F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">with praise;</span><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-100-4" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; position: relative;">give thanks to him and praise his name. Psalm 100:4</span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="text Ps-100-4" style="font-size: 16px; position: relative;">With thanks. Why would I want to be anywhere but in His presence? </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="text Ps-100-4" style="font-size: 16px; position: relative;">So today...just this. To keep breathing in grace, and breathing out thanks. With. Every. Breath. This is the only way to make it.</span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09104261234011118651noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4521916252548389848.post-85745234361531035982013-10-22T09:03:00.000-07:002013-10-22T09:03:35.342-07:00The Journey To Live<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Oh my goodnes! There's so much going on in my head and heart these days. I'm positive there is no way to get it all out in this blog post. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But can I just say I love the way the Holy Spirit plants seeds and begins to stir up my spirit preparing my heart for beautiful things He wants to teach me. He is so faithful like that! I love it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I wrote in an earlier post about beautiful things and beauty drawing our hearts to God, the Creator of all things beautiful. Since then, I've started reading Emily Freeman's book <i>a million little ways. </i> So. So. Good. I'm only a few chapters in and trying to pace myself since I'm participating in the <i>Bloom</i> book club over at <a href="http://www.incourage.me/">www.incourage.me</a>. I really would love to just shut myself in my house with a pot of coffee and read the whole thing without stopping. However, not exactly an option since you know, the 5 kids, and husband, job, etc. :) Anyway...where was i?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The book! Emily does an amazing job putting into words feelings and stirring I've had in my soul for years. I encourage you to check out her book and her blog at <a href="http://www.chattingatthesky.com/">http://www.chattingatthesky.com/</a>. It is challenging me to step into who God has lovingly and purposefully created me to be. And not just step into me, but be willing to freely share myself, fully alive, with the world around me in such a way that God is glorified. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I think we all get so hung up on comparing ourselves to others or to ideas we have in our heads about what we "should be" doing or how things are "supposed to" look. I know I struggle with it...in different areas...depending on the day. I am over it! Tired of it. That's not the way God intends for me to live. Jesus came to give us life, fully.</span><br />
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<i><span style="color: purple;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">I came that they may have </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">and</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it </span><span class="footnote" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="[<a href="#fen-AMP-26490a" title="See footnote a">a</a>]">[<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2010:10&version=AMP#fen-AMP-26490a" style="text-decoration: none; vertical-align: top;" title="See footnote a">a</a>]</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">overflows). John 10:10 AMP</span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am on a journey to have this life. To be fully alive. To live art as His creation. To bring Him glory. This can look like so many things. It's not about perfection. It's about authenticity. This is who God made me. This is what He put the desire in me to do. I will discover these gifts and share them with you. Because He is glorified in the sharing...whatever that looks like.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><i><span style="color: purple;">Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31 NKJV</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Will you join me on this journey? It's not so much about what we do, as it is how we do it. Let's encourage one another to uncover the art God has placed inside us and share it with the world for His glory.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09104261234011118651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4521916252548389848.post-52718975292027995212013-10-16T12:44:00.001-07:002013-10-16T12:44:28.463-07:00Everyday Miracles<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's been awhile since I've made time to write. I've had way too much to get done and not enough hours in the day. Chaos, clutter, and crankiness seem to rule the house. Every morning when the alarm goes off and I smack the snooze button my mind begins to race with the pressures of the day. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i> Who needs to be where at what time for an appointment, practice, or game. The errands that need to be run to the pharmacy or grocery store. What do I have in the freezer that I can cook for dinner? Do I know the songs on the set list for Sunday? Can I wait till tomorrow to do laundry? Remember, it's trash day. It's Ian's snack day. Sean has been asking for waffles. Don't forget to drop that bill off? And on and on...</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm exhausted before I ever get up! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our family has been going through some stuff lately and we've been earnestly seeking God for a miracle. And I expect God to show up. But I need to remember that He does things in His time, His way...and He doesn't always adhere to the specific requests I've prayed with the details I've given Him on how best to fix my situation. He sees the big picture and is concerned with my growth in Him, not just my comfort or an easy fix. I'm convinced much of our inner struggle comes from our perspective. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">What do we choose to focus on? Am I only thinking about how difficult things are and begging God for a miracle without noticing and being grateful for the miracles He does in my life everyday. For some reason, we, as humans, find it much easier to focus on the negative and what we don't have. It's like our default setting. I need to change my perspective and be intentional about it. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">I believe there are certain things we can do that help position ourselves for God's blessings and miracles. Being obedient to His word and listening to His voice. I also believe God wants to bless us and loves to move on our behalf. God is all about showing off in ways that give us no other option but to give Him the glory. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">My challenge to you, and myself, is this: instead of waiting and begging God for whatever "big" miracle we are in need of, let's start thanking Him for the "small" miracles He does for us everyday. You know the ones I'm talking about. The close parking place at Walmart. The short line at the pharmacy. When you find your lost keys. Hitting all the green lights when you're running late. Evenings with no homework and nowhere to go. A morning where the kids get along and no one spills anything at breakfast. Let's intentionally start thanking Him and giving Him praise for these things. He loves when we have relationship with Him for more than just pleading our requests . I don't know about you, but I enjoy giving my children special things...but I always want to do more for them when they are grateful for the things I do for them everyday. Let's start praising Him in the "everyday" and wait expectantly for Him to move on our behalf in the "big" things! </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><i><b>He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? (Romans 8:32 NIV)</b></i></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09104261234011118651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4521916252548389848.post-58782912888530790872013-09-27T09:38:00.001-07:002013-09-27T09:38:15.243-07:00Make It Beautiful<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have no idea what this post will be about. So...I'm just going to get started and we'll see where we end up. Doesn't that sound like fun??</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last night I found myself excited at the prospect that today I would probably be able to make time to write. I am discovering that I really love this writing thing. Does that make me a writer? Speaking of being a writer, how do you answer the question, "What do you do?" I've been thinking about that lately. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: blue;">I'm in customer service.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: lime;">I'm a teacher.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">I work at a bank.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: orange; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm a pastor.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #351c75;">I'm just a stay-at-home mom. (I'm saving the "just a stay-at-home mom" thing for another post.)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All of these would be considered acceptable answers to the question. Our society tends to label everything. But, really?? Do those responses sum up all of what we do or are? And if we are one of those things...does that make us not another? Or if we feel we are one, can we not become another instead of...or also?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When God created man, He created us in His image. God is amazingly diverse and creative. So wouldn't it stand to reason that we would be, too. Can you label God in one word that defines all of who He is? Hardly. We shouldn't attempt to limit our "labels" either. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While on this journey to learn about "soul integrity," I have been learning and reading a lot about what it means to be creative. To make art. Whatever that looks like. Those are the "labels" I want us to challenge in ourselves. You would have to be dead to not see that our God is an amazing artist. Everywhere we look we see the beauty He has created. Again, we're made in His image. We're artists, too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">James 1:17 says, <i><span style="color: #45818e;">Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father...</span></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Beauty is a gift given to us to enjoy. I believe because beauty is such a part of who God is that beauty (in whatever form) draws our hearts to Him. Beauty is a landscape. Beauty is Handel's <i>Messiah</i>. Beauty is the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Beauty is your child's face. Beauty is a home-cooked meal. Beauty is words on a page. Beauty is friendship. Beauty is a well executed double play or "Hail Mary" pass caught in the end zone. As beautiful creations of our amazing God we were made to create beauty as well, in whatever form we enjoy. Because whatever is beautiful points to Him, the Giver of all things beautiful. He delights in our creations, our art, whatever that looks like.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So let's throw off the "labels" we think we have and explore our God-given creativity to make art. Feed your soul. Write. Paint. Draw. Cook. Bake. Play music. Landscape. Garden. Fix up that classic car. Play that sport. Make that Pinterest craft. Don't be afraid to step out of your box and try because you think it may not turn out. Whatever is beauty to you...create it. Admire and encourage the art of each other. Let the beauty of what you and others create draw your heart to the Creator of all things beautiful. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09104261234011118651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4521916252548389848.post-13716473997795442612013-09-24T08:33:00.001-07:002013-09-24T08:33:04.590-07:00Time Is On My Side<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So much for writing twice a week. Last week flew by in a whirlwind of parent teacher conferences, occupational therapy, laundry, football, and cheer. Oh, well. New week. Fresh start. </span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh, happy day!! Sunday officially ushered in Autumn. My favoritest of favorite time of year!! Cooler weather. Beautiful colors. Pumpkin everything! Love everything about it!! Except for my fall allergies. I could totally do without those. Excuse me while I go take a Claritin...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This last week has been a time of processing priorities for our family. Time is such an important commodity and I want to budget it well. The Word talks about <i><span style="color: red;">redeeming the time</span>(</i>Ephesians 5:16 KJV). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The dictionary defines <i><span style="color: red;">redeem</span></i> as this: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">to make better or more acceptable; </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">to exchange for money, award, etc; </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">to buy back; to free from what distresses or harms.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don't want to just <i>spend </i>my time. I want to <i>redeem it. </i>The applications of this concept are many. Notice Paul uses the present participle form of the word <i>redeem</i>. Adding the</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> -<i>ing</i> means it is not just a one time action...but an ongoing one. Oh, Snap! You didn't know you were going to get an English lesson today, did ya? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Christ redeemed us when He died on the cross. One time. Action finished. We don't have to do anything else. Praise God!! But we are charged to redeem our time. The NIV translates it as <i>making the most of every opportunity.</i> Our mortal selves are so tied to time. We can't function without it. How many times have we said, "I have no idea where today went!" </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As women we can get so caught up in taking care of things and people around us that we don't stop to think about how we are using our time. We are just thinking about what needs to be accomplished and how little time we have to get everything done. I know, I live there! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I want to be more intentional in <i>redeeming</i> my time. I'm a very practical person. What would it look like to <i>redeem</i> my time?? Let's take the definition and get practical!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>to make better or more acceptable:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I want to use my time to make something better. This includes myself. Spiritually, the only way to do this is to let God work in me. I must make time to spend in the Word and prayer. Only He can change me into a "better" person. And on the completely frivolous side of things. It's okay to feed your soul by taking time to do something you enjoy. I mean, really, don't you always feel better after getting your hair done or a pedicure?? Even the mundane tasks we do like laundry and dishes...they make our homes better. If I look at the household chores as this...it makes it seem not quite as yucky. I'm redeeming the time to make things better for my family. The applications for this can be carried into most things we do. Be intentional about thinking of things in this way and see if it doesn't help your perspective.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>to exchange for money, award, etc:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am not advocating selling your time. However, I guess, technically, when you work at your job, you are exchanging your time for your paycheck. I would like you to think about it in the intangible, though. I want to redeem my time with the eternal dividends in mind. We can exchange our time by investing in others for heavenly treasures. Every time we share the love of Jesus with those around us, we are trading in our time. Whether it's serving others through an organization, ministry at church, or just our friendships, how great is it to know that our time can have an eternal value and impact.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">to buy back; to free from what distresses or harms</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This last one is exciting! This is what Jesus did for us! He bought us with His precious blood and freed us from everything that distresses and harms us. Somebody should be shouting about that!! We can carry this freedom to the world around us. There are so many people around us hurting and in bondage and we have the freedom and deliverance they so desperately need. May what we say and do bring this freedom to those we see every day. Don't get overwhelmed by the idea of this. Sometimes this may mean sharing Christ with a lost soul. Other times it may just be by encouraging a friend by prayer and a Scripture, sending a card, taking a meal to someone, or watching a young mom's littles so she can run an errand.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My challenge for all of us today is to consciously think about our time. Are we <i>redeeming</i> it? Let's be encouraged that we can redeem our time for things of eternal value.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09104261234011118651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4521916252548389848.post-12783033221235399572013-09-12T17:43:00.001-07:002013-09-12T17:43:53.004-07:00Something's Gotta Give<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I thought I had an idea of what I would write about today. I thought I would have plenty of time to write it. I thought I'd have more time for a lot of things today. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Guess that's what I get for thinking too much...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Life happened. Nothing huge or catastrophic. Just a lot of little things that took longer than planned or didn't happen as smoothly as I had hoped. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, here it is a few minutes past 7, I have a few minutes to sit down and write what is about to burst out of my heart. Mostly questions. Maybe if I write it out, answers will become clearer. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I'm on a journey...just like everyone else. Trying to take care of my children, husband, and home. Trying to do my job at work well. Trying to be a good friend to those I know God has given to me. Trying to be excellent in ministry. Trying to lead well in my life group. All of these things really overlap.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Above all of these, I want to hear the Holy Spirit and follow His leading.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Right now I feel I've reached an impasse. T</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">he crazy busy that has been our lives for the last few weeks is not working. All of these things I am doing are good things. But I feel like my family is suffering. We are always just making it to our next activity or meeting. Everyone has to hurry all the time. I feel the busy-ness and obligation has started to drown out My Father's voice. It is time to do some recalculating.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm not sure what this will look like. I'm praying and asking you to pray for me as well. I need wisdom and guidance to decide what He wants me to do or not do. My family is always my first ministry. I can be excellent in all other areas of "ministry, " but if I fail at home, my first God-given ministry, I fail at everything. We have had something every night this week. As I write this Jason has one kid at football, one at cheer, and another at a life group. I am home with the twins, finishing up another dinner that will be eaten well after the time the kiddos should be in bed. I need to figure out which of the good things I need to say "No" to, in order to say "Yes" to the best thing.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'll let you know how it turns out. This hasn't been the funniest post...but not in a funny mood today. I believe it's time for me to "Be still (cease striving) and know that He is God." I am encouraged that I have learned He will be faithful. The answers will come if I make the effort to listen for His voice. Be encouraged that we all struggle at times to know the right steps to take. But always this:</span><br />
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<i><span style="color: magenta;"><span class="text Lam-3-22" id="en-NIV-20377" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; position: relative;">Because of the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>’s great love<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-20377A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></span> we are not consumed,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-20377B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></span></span><br /><span class="indent-1" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Lam-3-22" style="position: relative;">for his compassions never fail.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-20377C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></span></span></span><br /><span class="text Lam-3-23" id="en-NIV-20378" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; vertical-align: top;"> </span>They are new every morning;</span><br /><span class="indent-1" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Lam-3-23" style="position: relative;">great is your faithfulness.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-20378D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></span></span></span><br /><span class="text Lam-3-24" id="en-NIV-20379" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; vertical-align: top;"> </span>I say to myself, “The <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> is my portion;<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-20379E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></span></span><br /><span class="indent-1" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Lam-3-24" style="position: relative;">therefore I will wait for him.”</span></span><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: magenta;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="line-height: 0;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Lord is good</span></span><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Lam-3-25" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; position: relative;">to those whose hope is in him,</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: magenta;"><span class="text Lam-3-25" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; position: relative;">to the one who seeks him;</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: magenta;">it is good to wait quietly</span></i></div>
<span class="indent-1" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><i><span style="color: magenta;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Lam-3-26" style="position: relative;">for the salvation of the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>.</span></span></i></span></div>
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<i><span style="color: magenta;">Lamentations 3:22-26</span></i><br /><div class="line">
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<span class="text Lam-3-26" id="en-NIV-20381" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; vertical-align: top;"><span style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span></span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09104261234011118651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4521916252548389848.post-41306254177456433782013-09-10T08:36:00.000-07:002013-09-10T08:36:27.146-07:00Let's Get Transparent<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So...after my husband read my last blog post, he informed me I needed an editor. Lovely. Yes, I must admit the fact that he was such a grammatical genius attracted me when I met him. Now...not so much. Ha! I shall try to edit this post a little more thoroughly. :) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Transparent moment: I love people, but they annoy me...seriously.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have thought about running away to a deserted island several times over the last few weeks where I wouldn't have to deal with people. You probably think it can't possibly be that bad and you're probably right. But whatever...I didn't ask you. (Have I told you that sarcasm is one of my spiritual gifts.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have been learning a lot about what it means to have "soul integrity" lately. It's okay to say no to activities, even good ones, because you just want to hang out with your husband and kids and eat burgers and watch tennis. It's okay to take a break from the 27 loads of laundry that need to be done to write a blog post because it feeds your soul. It's okay to love to dress up and feel pretty in a casual environment. And it's always okay to wear high heels whenever you feel like it (I'm almost positive when the first pair was created, God looked down from heaven and said, "It is good").</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But mostly, soul integrity has to do with being honest with yourself. Honest about how you feel. Why you feel that way. What annoys you. What are your true desires. We are so good at lying to ourselves and making excuses to ourselves. And sometimes we've been doing this for so long we don't even realize it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Soul integrity is really just about getting real with yourself so God can work. I believe the more soul integrity we have the easier it is for the Spirit to change us and make us more like Jesus. Because isn't that our goal...to become more like Christ. The more like Him we can become, the more others will see Him and know Him. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In my heart of hearts I just want to</span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> magnify</i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Him, by definition...make Him easier to see. The glory of any created thing is directly tied to whether or not it's fulfilling the purpose God designed for it. Our purpose is to bring God glory. So in everything I do, including dealing with all those annoying people, I want to show Christ, and Him be glorified. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Does this always happen? I'm afraid not. This becoming is quite a process and requires much dying to self, which is not always easy for us humans. Thanks to the whole "sin nature" thing we have going on, selfishness is easier for us. And just when we think we have learned and prayed and confessed enough...one of those annoying people does something completely stupid. The only way we know the change is real and the Holy Spirit is working is to have it tested out in our relationships. I am so thankful we don't rely on our own abilities.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><i><span style="color: blue;">I’ll give you a new heart, put a new spirit in you. I’ll remove the stone heart from your body and replace it with a heart that’s God-willed, not self-willed. I’ll put my Spirit in you and make it possible for you to do what I tell you and live by my commands. Ezekiel 36:25-27</span> </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We are all learning and growing. I want to write more about what God has been teaching me about relationships and people on Thursday...or maybe Friday...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Domestic duties are calling. Be encouraged today friends, that we have a new heart and His Spirit to make it through the difficult moments.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09104261234011118651noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4521916252548389848.post-45631141170001571632013-09-06T10:23:00.000-07:002013-09-06T10:23:07.599-07:00Let's Do ThisLet's do this! <br />
<i>This</i>.<br />
What is <i>this</i>? <br />
Is my <i>this</i> the same as your <i>this</i>? <br />
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Yes. No. Sometimes.<br />
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I've been thinking about writing for a long time...even blogged some in the past. It seems I'm always writing in my head. Composing things God is teaching me and funny things my kids say into posts. They never get written, because let's face it....life is busy. Writing seems like something else on the list that's not as important as all the other things that <u>have</u> to be accomplished for the day. So I don't do it.<br />
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I love reading so many other blogs. Mostly of women, just like me. In the throes of serving their family, working their jobs, and trying to walk out their faith. Everyday. The blogs are real, funny, raw, and so very encouraging. <br />
Why? Because they let me know I'm not alone in the <i>this. </i>The <i>this.</i> The right now. The parenting failures and successes. The friendships that are smooth and effortless or sometimes rocky and exhausting. The marriage that is work and a blessing. The job that needs attention. The laundry that never ends. The dinners that have to be fixed every stinkin' night. Sports, cheer, homework, doctor's visits. And ministry that can be both messy and rewarding.<br />
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Ministry is not just for full time, paid church staff. It's what we all do. Everyday. In everything we do. If you are on the journey to follow Christ and become more like Him, your life IS ministry. Laundry, conversations, leading worship and small groups. Sending encouraging cards or texts. Just listening. <br />
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So...That's what I want this <i>this</i> to be. Ministering to my soul as I write, my God as I try to follow and write what He is teaching me, and and to you, the reader...my friends. Will every post have some deep spiritual thought? Probably not. I hope to write about funny things that happen in my life, because goodness knows we need to laugh to survive...even if it is at ourselves. But I feel even in the funny, God is there, smiling and enjoying our delight. <br />
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And I want to encourage you. You are not alone in <i>this.</i> We all struggle and have bad days. We all have great days that we wish would go on forever. But in <i>this </i>we need each other. We need to laugh, cry, and celebrate with each other. We need to stand together in the battles, praying over one another when the <i>this </i>gets too hard. We need to remind each other where our strength comes from and Who has things under control.<br />
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So join me on my journey in <i>this.</i> Be patient with me as I figure this whole blog thing out, as I'm not the most technologically savvy person I know. I am going to try to post 2 times a week or so...emphases on try. Hope you are encouraged.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09104261234011118651noreply@blogger.com0