First, I'm very thankful that we had a special evening worship service at church tonight. Attending our Music Gala really lifted my spirits, and helped me calm down from the "incident" today.
If I had tried to blog out my feelings beforehand, I'd need a censorship button :)
I think the worst part of the whole situation, was knowing my daughter succumbed to the pressure of "impressing" her friend, and acted very poorly.
My daughter (9) and her friend were in her bedroom playing, when her friend came downstairs and whispered to my son (4) that my daughter wanted him to come upstairs to play. Now, my mommy radar was going off..but I wanted to give them the benefit of the doubt (slaps forehead).
About 45 seconds later, I hear him begin to yell, which suddenly became muffled...hmm. Going upstairs, I saw him sprawled out on the floor on his stomach, with my daughter on top of him, barking in his ear asking why he was in her room bothering her (?!).
Apparently, she didn't request his presence, and the friend took it upon herself to invite him up, thinking it would be funny (my daughter was ignoring the friend momentarily). Once he was upstairs, everything fell apart, and dd decided to "strut her stuff" and show off.
Being the 3rd and youngest child in a family, I have been the recipient of many cruel gags in my life. It's not something I tolerate well. I was very disappointed and angry at the two girls. I was more angry at my daughter though, because she knows better than to act that way towards her brother...We had a long talk with all of them, and I still haven't finished with her yet. I think we will need to work together this week on some issues.
I know the ordeal wasn't much, really, in the long run. But, my child is more mature than that! Our family tries to emphasize a close-knit, loving relationship. Not "my brother/sister is a punching bag, watch this!"
Ugh!
Today just reminded me that we're "not quite there yet" with our progress.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Running out of August!
Wow, the month is almost gone! I feel like it passed by in a blur. Soon enough, Girl Scouts will begin, then sewing classes, and soccer and softball games will start on the weekends. Someone will have to remind me mid-October what "free time" means!!
I've been awfully tired the past couple of days. I think it is mental fatigue. I've been doing a lot of scheduling and that always drains me. I'm looking forward to some renewal soon. My homeschooling group will be having our first Ladies Night Out & then a Bible study within the next couple of weeks. That will surely help!!
I'm juggling the idea of year round schooling. Maybe an adaptation of 9 weeks on 4 weeks off. Dunno quite how I'll do that, since Kierstyn must be in TX during the summer. That MAY be her 4 weeks off...again, I must adapt, because there are a few other times when we will need to take time off from school. We'll see. Maybe it will be 9 weeks on, 2 weeks off, 9 weeks on, 4 weeks off...etc. Nothing is finalized.
On a different note, next week marks Labor Day weekend, which means..duh duh duh...HOME IMPROVEMENT TIME....again. This year we are replacing the roof over our back deck, replacing the back door in the sun room, and replacing the floor in the sun room, kitchen, wash room, foyer, and downstairs bathroom. Lots to do! Maybe we'll be finished by 2012 :)
That's about it for now. Next week, things get tricky around here. I'm not sure how all that is going to go.
I've been awfully tired the past couple of days. I think it is mental fatigue. I've been doing a lot of scheduling and that always drains me. I'm looking forward to some renewal soon. My homeschooling group will be having our first Ladies Night Out & then a Bible study within the next couple of weeks. That will surely help!!
I'm juggling the idea of year round schooling. Maybe an adaptation of 9 weeks on 4 weeks off. Dunno quite how I'll do that, since Kierstyn must be in TX during the summer. That MAY be her 4 weeks off...again, I must adapt, because there are a few other times when we will need to take time off from school. We'll see. Maybe it will be 9 weeks on, 2 weeks off, 9 weeks on, 4 weeks off...etc. Nothing is finalized.
On a different note, next week marks Labor Day weekend, which means..duh duh duh...HOME IMPROVEMENT TIME....again. This year we are replacing the roof over our back deck, replacing the back door in the sun room, and replacing the floor in the sun room, kitchen, wash room, foyer, and downstairs bathroom. Lots to do! Maybe we'll be finished by 2012 :)
That's about it for now. Next week, things get tricky around here. I'm not sure how all that is going to go.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Well, my last post ended abruptly, because, well, that's how I felt at the moment.
God's faithfulness never fails, though. The VERY next day, I received a wonderful email that addressed exactly what I was struggling with in my previous post. I love the Lord's timing!!!!!
The number one thing the letter talked about was making sure your dreams are in line with God's dreams for you. Too often, we get caught up in the noise of the world, and we can't hear the soft melody of God's plan. My goal is to stop trying to keep up with the noise, and instead choose contentment in the sweet melody that God has for me.
On another note, I found a blog that I'm rather enjoying...
http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/BlessingsUndreamtOf/
I need to get my links page fixed up. I've been lazy!
God's faithfulness never fails, though. The VERY next day, I received a wonderful email that addressed exactly what I was struggling with in my previous post. I love the Lord's timing!!!!!
The number one thing the letter talked about was making sure your dreams are in line with God's dreams for you. Too often, we get caught up in the noise of the world, and we can't hear the soft melody of God's plan. My goal is to stop trying to keep up with the noise, and instead choose contentment in the sweet melody that God has for me.
On another note, I found a blog that I'm rather enjoying...
http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/BlessingsUndreamtOf/
I need to get my links page fixed up. I've been lazy!
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Choosing Contentment
It's unsettling how quickly we can become dissatisfied with life. It can happen even when you are rooted firmly where you are. Contentment quickly washes away.
I know I'm where I need to be in life. I know that God has charged me with a great responsibility in raising my children. Yet, as I see many of my peers pursuing the lifestyle of their choosing...my previous choosing, I find myself wishing that I could, I would, I had.
What a dangerous place this is! Without realizing, I ham turning to God and saying "Thanks for this gift, but really, can I have the receipt?" Who knows better what is right for me? Certainly not me. But all too easily I forget.
I know I'm where I need to be in life. I know that God has charged me with a great responsibility in raising my children. Yet, as I see many of my peers pursuing the lifestyle of their choosing...my previous choosing, I find myself wishing that I could, I would, I had.
What a dangerous place this is! Without realizing, I ham turning to God and saying "Thanks for this gift, but really, can I have the receipt?" Who knows better what is right for me? Certainly not me. But all too easily I forget.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
The Fired Dryer...part 2
I've just washed/dried our 6th load of laundry without my dryer. The only adjustment I've made is adding fabric softener to my wash. That has helped with the stiff feeling from line dried clothing. I've also found that it works much better doing one load of laundry per day. This may seem a little tedious, but I have found that I actually like it better. I don't end up with an enormous load of folded clothes to deal with. Typically, I wash a load of laundry around 7am, and have it hanging up by 8am. The next morning, I usually fold the clothes while the next load is washing. It's a pretty simple process!
So, all in all, we're going to continue our adventures in a dryer-less world :) Stay tuned for more updates as the seasons change!
So, all in all, we're going to continue our adventures in a dryer-less world :) Stay tuned for more updates as the seasons change!
Monday, August 17, 2009
Thoughts on home...
As we begin our second year of home education, I've had a chance to think about my role in life. It is much different than I had imagined. I've always imagined myself as a self-sufficient person that would be very successful professionally. I wouldn't be dependent on anyone, least of all a man! That's what I was always taught.
Fast forward 30 years or so, and here I sit :). I have left the work force, and well, I'm completely dependent on a man to provide income for my family!
So many women in today's society would frown on this. So often today, we (women) think we must leave the house and enter the work force to be fulfilled or "find our identity". I was that woman for a long time. Initially, I joined the work force because I had to. Simply put, I was the income provider for my family. But, as my life progressed, I became the secondary income provider. I still yearned the freedom that being a professional gave me, so I continued working. I could feel my heart strings being pulled by God to come home with my children, but I had to look after my needs, my desires. As a result, I put God on mute for a few years.
Finally, my husband and I realized what shape our family was in, and we came to the agreement that I needed to come home. Sounds easy, doesn't it?
Coming home was the scariest thing I have ever done. Why?....
We have found that through FAITH, we are sustained. There have been a few financial crises that we have faced since my departure from the workforce, and each one of them have been handled through answered prayer. There was even a time when we anonymously received a gift card in the mail for groceries!
Well, what about Ms. Liberated Woman? This is what I have to say to her:
The bravest, most challenging, most fulfilling thing a mother could ever do is to take care of her family! There is no accomplishment made in an office building that can come anywhere near the gratification waiting for you at home with your children! We have the (brief) opportunity to build up these children into mighty men and women for God's glory!
I know from personal experience that sometimes we have to work. But, when it isn't a necessity, when it has become an escape for you to "find yourself" outside of your family, I want to ask you: What are you hoping to find? And...once you find it, what will it cost you?
Fast forward 30 years or so, and here I sit :). I have left the work force, and well, I'm completely dependent on a man to provide income for my family!
So many women in today's society would frown on this. So often today, we (women) think we must leave the house and enter the work force to be fulfilled or "find our identity". I was that woman for a long time. Initially, I joined the work force because I had to. Simply put, I was the income provider for my family. But, as my life progressed, I became the secondary income provider. I still yearned the freedom that being a professional gave me, so I continued working. I could feel my heart strings being pulled by God to come home with my children, but I had to look after my needs, my desires. As a result, I put God on mute for a few years.
Finally, my husband and I realized what shape our family was in, and we came to the agreement that I needed to come home. Sounds easy, doesn't it?
Coming home was the scariest thing I have ever done. Why?....
- I am a liberated woman! What about my "identity"? Won't it get lost at home with the kids all the time?
- What about our lifestyle? Can we live on half of our income?
- What do I tell people I know? How do I support our decision to those that disagree?
We have found that through FAITH, we are sustained. There have been a few financial crises that we have faced since my departure from the workforce, and each one of them have been handled through answered prayer. There was even a time when we anonymously received a gift card in the mail for groceries!
Well, what about Ms. Liberated Woman? This is what I have to say to her:
The bravest, most challenging, most fulfilling thing a mother could ever do is to take care of her family! There is no accomplishment made in an office building that can come anywhere near the gratification waiting for you at home with your children! We have the (brief) opportunity to build up these children into mighty men and women for God's glory!
I know from personal experience that sometimes we have to work. But, when it isn't a necessity, when it has become an escape for you to "find yourself" outside of your family, I want to ask you: What are you hoping to find? And...once you find it, what will it cost you?
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Massive Update
The last couple of weeks have been a blur. I need to make a better effort of updating this blog!
One of the most recent things I've decided to do is to fire my dryer. Now, that doesn't mean I've quit doing laundry. Our house would be overrun by mounds of dirty clothes in a matter of days if I did that! No, what it means is that I'm not using my dryer anymore! I found this great article taking about line drying your clothes. Now, I've wanted to do this for a while, but my husband has been completely against it b/c of pollen issues. My son has asthma, and my husband has a terrible time with pollen season. Peppering our clothes with the wonderful powder would not be good for either of them. So...I've struggled with not being able to line dry our clothes.
Then, I found this great website! that talks about how ANYONE living ANYWHERE can fire their dryer. I never thought of line drying in the house before! So, I'm on day 2 (load 2) of line drying. I'm using our bonus room & I have a ladder set up in the back. I hang most of the clothes on hangers and put them on the ladder. So far, so good. It takes a while...but I can be patient :)
I've also been tinkering with canning food. This is also something that anyone can do! There is a little set up cost. You need to buy a pressure canner (mine was $62) and you need jars, lids, etc. But, the cost is quickly balanced out after a few rounds of canning. So far, I've canned:
- peach preserves
- canned peaches
- sweet pickles
- dill pickles
- vegetable beef soup
- chicken noodle soup
- potato soup
Next up will be pinto beans. I'm trying to eliminate eating store bought soup. It's packed full of sodium and other various preservatives that I'd rather not ingest. ...AND canning is surprisingly a gratifying activity.
Our school year has also kicked off at our house, so we have books and science things everywhere! We'll be doing monthly unit studies on different countries this year -- something I can't wait to do. This will be the first set of unit studies that I have personally put together (instead of finding a pre-made one online). I'm a little nervous, but very excited!!!
I'll update on how the studies go as we start them (September).
Well, that's all I have time for right now. Until next time....
One of the most recent things I've decided to do is to fire my dryer. Now, that doesn't mean I've quit doing laundry. Our house would be overrun by mounds of dirty clothes in a matter of days if I did that! No, what it means is that I'm not using my dryer anymore! I found this great article taking about line drying your clothes. Now, I've wanted to do this for a while, but my husband has been completely against it b/c of pollen issues. My son has asthma, and my husband has a terrible time with pollen season. Peppering our clothes with the wonderful powder would not be good for either of them. So...I've struggled with not being able to line dry our clothes.
Then, I found this great website! that talks about how ANYONE living ANYWHERE can fire their dryer. I never thought of line drying in the house before! So, I'm on day 2 (load 2) of line drying. I'm using our bonus room & I have a ladder set up in the back. I hang most of the clothes on hangers and put them on the ladder. So far, so good. It takes a while...but I can be patient :)
I've also been tinkering with canning food. This is also something that anyone can do! There is a little set up cost. You need to buy a pressure canner (mine was $62) and you need jars, lids, etc. But, the cost is quickly balanced out after a few rounds of canning. So far, I've canned:
- peach preserves
- canned peaches
- sweet pickles
- dill pickles
- vegetable beef soup
- chicken noodle soup
- potato soup
Next up will be pinto beans. I'm trying to eliminate eating store bought soup. It's packed full of sodium and other various preservatives that I'd rather not ingest. ...AND canning is surprisingly a gratifying activity.
Our school year has also kicked off at our house, so we have books and science things everywhere! We'll be doing monthly unit studies on different countries this year -- something I can't wait to do. This will be the first set of unit studies that I have personally put together (instead of finding a pre-made one online). I'm a little nervous, but very excited!!!
I'll update on how the studies go as we start them (September).
Well, that's all I have time for right now. Until next time....
Monday, July 27, 2009
Marriage Retreat
John and I just returned from a wonderful Marriage Retreat. We had a wonderful time, and grew closer to God (and one another through Christ!) Ric and Cindy Cadle lead the sessions (they are great!)
(view from 3rd floor)
One item discussed that stuck with me was the fact that we cannot fulfill all of our spouse's needs. We...cannot! Only Christ Jesus can fulfill all of our needs! Think about that carefully. So many times, I have beat myself up because I couldn't fulfill every single need of my husband. I wasted so much energy focusing on something that I'm not supposed to do! Simply put, we aren't supposed to be our spouse's number one supporter in their life. (We come in a close second!) Our Lord and Savior should always be number one!
Additionally, I learned that although my life may be "good" right now (including my marriage), God can always make it great. IF I let Him! That's something we must ask ourselves: Do we want our life to be "good" or "Great!"? Do you want to settle?
I hadn't thought about it that way. I realize now that when I choose worldly desires over a Christ-centered decision (spending more time doing recreational things than studying God's word for example) I'm denying myself the opportunity to experience something great.
John and I have already decided that we're definitely going to the marriage retreat next year (Ridgecrest, NC). I strongly urge married couples to find a marriage retreat to attend. Once you've experienced one, you'll never be the same!
(view from 3rd floor)
One item discussed that stuck with me was the fact that we cannot fulfill all of our spouse's needs. We...cannot! Only Christ Jesus can fulfill all of our needs! Think about that carefully. So many times, I have beat myself up because I couldn't fulfill every single need of my husband. I wasted so much energy focusing on something that I'm not supposed to do! Simply put, we aren't supposed to be our spouse's number one supporter in their life. (We come in a close second!) Our Lord and Savior should always be number one!
Additionally, I learned that although my life may be "good" right now (including my marriage), God can always make it great. IF I let Him! That's something we must ask ourselves: Do we want our life to be "good" or "Great!"? Do you want to settle?
I hadn't thought about it that way. I realize now that when I choose worldly desires over a Christ-centered decision (spending more time doing recreational things than studying God's word for example) I'm denying myself the opportunity to experience something great.
John and I have already decided that we're definitely going to the marriage retreat next year (Ridgecrest, NC). I strongly urge married couples to find a marriage retreat to attend. Once you've experienced one, you'll never be the same!
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Gossip
Gossip infects everyone. It controls even the least expected. It causes Christians who should love one another to lash out and hurt them instead. What good can come of gossip? Can God's will be done when your focus is on gossip? Traitors! Children of christ humble yourselves! Realize what you are doing. Beg God to open the eyes of your heart and expose that which you do.
(Personal Note: Pray for me -- I am in mourning for my brothers and sisters in Christ and it is a heavy burden to carry.)
(Personal Note: Pray for me -- I am in mourning for my brothers and sisters in Christ and it is a heavy burden to carry.)
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Happy Mommy
Every spring break, summer break, and winter break my daughter travels to TX to visit her father. Typically we drive 1/2 way there and drop her off with her grandparents. This spring break was no different.
My husband picked her up this time, and they had the most wonderful talk. Please keep in mind, my daughter is 7 years old. I remember being 7.......*shudders* I was already so lost in life...I was very far away from our Lord...
They had quite a long talk (driving from AL to NC gives ample opportunity for such chats). They discussed many different topics, ranging from peer pressure -- making good choices that reflect your Christian life, all the way to marriage and waiting for God to place the right husband in her life.
We were amazed with how profound her answers were to my husband's questions. They were all very biblically rooted. I am so thankful that God is working so diligently in my daugher's life.
It makes me smile.
My husband picked her up this time, and they had the most wonderful talk. Please keep in mind, my daughter is 7 years old. I remember being 7.......*shudders* I was already so lost in life...I was very far away from our Lord...
They had quite a long talk (driving from AL to NC gives ample opportunity for such chats). They discussed many different topics, ranging from peer pressure -- making good choices that reflect your Christian life, all the way to marriage and waiting for God to place the right husband in her life.
We were amazed with how profound her answers were to my husband's questions. They were all very biblically rooted. I am so thankful that God is working so diligently in my daugher's life.
It makes me smile.
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Advice from a "Christian"
An article I was reading on a blog here got me to thinking about a conversation I had with a co-worker a few months ago... We have a mutual friend that is a non-believer (she's semi-muslim -- long story)...She's constantly having marital problems and various stress in her life.
My friend and I (who, btw, claims to be a Christian) were having a conversation, and it turned to our other friend. She made a comment that our friend needed to "get rid of that sorry husband of hers" and it would solve all of her problems. I rebutted with "No, she needs Jesus in her life".. My friend...the CHRISTIAN...proceeded to argue that her problem wasn't that she was not saved..but that she needed a new husband!!!!!!!
How can we, Christians, actually think anyone would need anything more than Jesus Christ? But it happens all the time. And you can see the effects of that everywhere...especially in church.
My friend and I (who, btw, claims to be a Christian) were having a conversation, and it turned to our other friend. She made a comment that our friend needed to "get rid of that sorry husband of hers" and it would solve all of her problems. I rebutted with "No, she needs Jesus in her life".. My friend...the CHRISTIAN...proceeded to argue that her problem wasn't that she was not saved..but that she needed a new husband!!!!!!!
How can we, Christians, actually think anyone would need anything more than Jesus Christ? But it happens all the time. And you can see the effects of that everywhere...especially in church.
Monday, April 02, 2007
Driving with Jesus
I love to go driving. This past weekend I drove from NC to AL and back...I was driving alone all the way back. I really love all of that time to myself. I always spend a lot of time with my Lord. I usually end up being convicted of something (Which is a great thing!) This weekend was no different.
God convicted me on a few things.
1) My recent attitude at work
2) My failure to be faithful in my devotional time
3) My failure to step out of my comfort zone
4) My lack of acknowledging Jesus Christ as MY Lord.
I have been lead by my selfish pride and laziness lately. I started living worldy, which is a dangerous habit to pick up! I'm so thankful that my God loves me so much that He opens my heart to these things.
I have started reading a book I have had on my shelf collecting dust (part of my growing McArthur collection) with my husband..and we have picked up our morning bible studies once more. I'm looking around for a bible study that might be good to invite people (non-believers) to my house to study with. I have some neighbors that I have been ignoring spiritually for way to long. I've been afraid to approach them. I can't continue to do that!!!!
God has given me the peace I have needed to get past that uncomfort level that has kept me at bay.
Pray for me!!!!!! I do not want to slip back into my lazy ways. Now more than ever I realize that Jesus Christ is MY LORD! And I want to devote my time to serving HIS will and spreading HIS love!
God convicted me on a few things.
1) My recent attitude at work
2) My failure to be faithful in my devotional time
3) My failure to step out of my comfort zone
4) My lack of acknowledging Jesus Christ as MY Lord.
I have been lead by my selfish pride and laziness lately. I started living worldy, which is a dangerous habit to pick up! I'm so thankful that my God loves me so much that He opens my heart to these things.
I have started reading a book I have had on my shelf collecting dust (part of my growing McArthur collection) with my husband..and we have picked up our morning bible studies once more. I'm looking around for a bible study that might be good to invite people (non-believers) to my house to study with. I have some neighbors that I have been ignoring spiritually for way to long. I've been afraid to approach them. I can't continue to do that!!!!
God has given me the peace I have needed to get past that uncomfort level that has kept me at bay.
Pray for me!!!!!! I do not want to slip back into my lazy ways. Now more than ever I realize that Jesus Christ is MY LORD! And I want to devote my time to serving HIS will and spreading HIS love!
Monday, February 12, 2007
Thoughts from this Sunday
The sermon this Sunday had a convicting impact on me (which is always good!). It was when we went over the passage in Galatians. (Galatians 5:19-25)
19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.
It made me think about how I act at work around my co-workers (most of which aren't saved). It made me feel ashamed at my latest actions. I have become too worldy at work. I praise God for opening my eyes to this. I will be working and praying on this over the next few weeks.
I pray that I can turn this around.
19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.
It made me think about how I act at work around my co-workers (most of which aren't saved). It made me feel ashamed at my latest actions. I have become too worldy at work. I praise God for opening my eyes to this. I will be working and praying on this over the next few weeks.
I pray that I can turn this around.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Eye Opener
You hear about it in church quite frequently - God opening your eyes to scripture that you may have read/heard before, and it taking on a whole new level in your heart. I know I have heard of this many times. But I could never really say that it has happened to me. Well, not until today.
I was reading John 14:15-18 this morning:
15 “If you love Me, keep My commandments. 16 And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. 18 I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.
This passage took on a whole new level of meaning for me. I don't know how to explain it. I got choked up (you know when you get that lump in your throat that you just can't quite swallow???). It was overwhelming! The comfort this scripture gave me -- the promise Christ made that the Holy Spirit would be with us -- would be with ME.
I know I'm rambling here. It is hard to sum up how I am feeling in intelligent words and phrases. I am amazed again at how wonderful God is. I have been struggling with some things in my life lately, and this is exactly what I needed to get through these struggles. It is just another example of how He always provides for us what we need exactly when we need it.
Praise Him!
I was reading John 14:15-18 this morning:
15 “If you love Me, keep My commandments. 16 And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. 18 I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.
This passage took on a whole new level of meaning for me. I don't know how to explain it. I got choked up (you know when you get that lump in your throat that you just can't quite swallow???). It was overwhelming! The comfort this scripture gave me -- the promise Christ made that the Holy Spirit would be with us -- would be with ME.
I know I'm rambling here. It is hard to sum up how I am feeling in intelligent words and phrases. I am amazed again at how wonderful God is. I have been struggling with some things in my life lately, and this is exactly what I needed to get through these struggles. It is just another example of how He always provides for us what we need exactly when we need it.
Praise Him!
Friday, December 01, 2006
How do you say...
"you're going to hell" to some of your closest friends?
I am at such a loss right now for words...or thoughts of encouragement. And then it dons on me.. That's the problem "thoughts of encouragement...words" << those feelings..that kind of thinking..that is what is trapping so many of my friends ..condeming them to an eternity in hell.
The "I can fix it" mantra...and the perversion of God's plan for salvation..morphing it into some kind of after dinner mint idea that we can earn our way into heaven... That's what I see many of my friends deluding themselves into believing.
I know what I should do. I should trust God. I should trust that He will provide me with the strength and the words to proclaim the Truth to my friends. I shouldn't allow fear to overcome me. I know I shouldn't ...I know I need to pray.
If you read this..please pray for me in this area of my life.
I am at such a loss right now for words...or thoughts of encouragement. And then it dons on me.. That's the problem "thoughts of encouragement...words" << those feelings..that kind of thinking..that is what is trapping so many of my friends ..condeming them to an eternity in hell.
The "I can fix it" mantra...and the perversion of God's plan for salvation..morphing it into some kind of after dinner mint idea that we can earn our way into heaven... That's what I see many of my friends deluding themselves into believing.
I know what I should do. I should trust God. I should trust that He will provide me with the strength and the words to proclaim the Truth to my friends. I shouldn't allow fear to overcome me. I know I shouldn't ...I know I need to pray.
If you read this..please pray for me in this area of my life.
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Wow...
I have been doing a small groups study with 2 ladies from my church every Thursday evening. I am soooo thankful that God has put us together. We have only met 3 times, yet I have been blessed so much already by our Lord - I can't put it into words.
I don't know why, but every time the subject of "small groups" comes up at church, I cringe (when we're leading up to start a new term of small groups) I get this "ugh, again???" attitude about it. It is so silly to feel that way, and so WRONG! Each small group I have been a part of has been absolutely amazing!
I'm very lucky...very blessed to be able to have this experience.
I feel myself growing as a Christian in the sight of our Lord..and it is great.
I don't know why, but every time the subject of "small groups" comes up at church, I cringe (when we're leading up to start a new term of small groups) I get this "ugh, again???" attitude about it. It is so silly to feel that way, and so WRONG! Each small group I have been a part of has been absolutely amazing!
I'm very lucky...very blessed to be able to have this experience.
I feel myself growing as a Christian in the sight of our Lord..and it is great.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Been in hiding...
I know its been a long time since my last post. A lot has been going on, and I just haven't had the energy to post.
I'm battling a health inconvience that is getting me down. I keep having these painful chest pains (which causes shortness of breath). My doctor doesn't know what is causing it..and his office has yet to call me back for a stress test appointment. It keeps me from exercising, and I just feel like a big pile of blob right now!
Oh well... life goes on - either here, or in eternity.
There isn't much reason for this post, other than to announce that I'm still alive!
I'm battling a health inconvience that is getting me down. I keep having these painful chest pains (which causes shortness of breath). My doctor doesn't know what is causing it..and his office has yet to call me back for a stress test appointment. It keeps me from exercising, and I just feel like a big pile of blob right now!
Oh well... life goes on - either here, or in eternity.
There isn't much reason for this post, other than to announce that I'm still alive!
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Temptations
What's some of your temptations?
I have a few that keep surfacing. Other people may find some of them to be silly, but it is a real challenge to me.
MySpace - Temptation (1). A while back, an online friend of mine introduced me to myspace. I eagerly started to make a page, being the 'net junkie I am. John noticed what I was doing, and asked me to not make a site.
Why? Because of all of the negative issues surrounding it. You hear about it all the time, and if you are a myspacer, probably see it often - people using myspace to "hook up". Then there's the vulgar things you see on the pages. I'm not talking about someone making an inappropriate page, but the comments their friends leave. And yes, I do understand that as the "owner" of the site, you can remove comments made on your page. But the fact remains, the reputation that My Space has, is one that makes me uncomfortable. I don't want to have to give an explanation about how my site "isn't like those others" when I tell someone I have a myspace account. I don't want to rationalize it.
So why is this a problem? BECAUSE I REALLY WANT TO MAKE A PAGE! What's the big deal? I feel that God has convicted me in not getting involved with this. I'm reminded of 2 Timothy 2:3-5.
Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs—he wants to please his commanding officer. Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor's crown unless he competes according to the rules.
Every timee one of my friends show me their myspace pages, I start feeling left out, almost envious. I want to "join the group". I know I'm in trouble with it when I start to rationalize the reasons around making a page. (To me) Rationalization is convincing the mind something is right that the spirit knows is wrong.
Ugh. So what is the point of this rant? Is it to whine about not being able to make a page? (maybe, a little). But mainly, its just to show that there are others out there that have daily struggles with "little things". And its important to stick to your convictions, no matter how trivial they may seem when scrutinized.
Ok, rant off. =)
I have a few that keep surfacing. Other people may find some of them to be silly, but it is a real challenge to me.
MySpace - Temptation (1). A while back, an online friend of mine introduced me to myspace. I eagerly started to make a page, being the 'net junkie I am. John noticed what I was doing, and asked me to not make a site.
Why? Because of all of the negative issues surrounding it. You hear about it all the time, and if you are a myspacer, probably see it often - people using myspace to "hook up". Then there's the vulgar things you see on the pages. I'm not talking about someone making an inappropriate page, but the comments their friends leave. And yes, I do understand that as the "owner" of the site, you can remove comments made on your page. But the fact remains, the reputation that My Space has, is one that makes me uncomfortable. I don't want to have to give an explanation about how my site "isn't like those others" when I tell someone I have a myspace account. I don't want to rationalize it.
So why is this a problem? BECAUSE I REALLY WANT TO MAKE A PAGE! What's the big deal? I feel that God has convicted me in not getting involved with this. I'm reminded of 2 Timothy 2:3-5.
Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs—he wants to please his commanding officer. Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor's crown unless he competes according to the rules.
Every timee one of my friends show me their myspace pages, I start feeling left out, almost envious. I want to "join the group". I know I'm in trouble with it when I start to rationalize the reasons around making a page. (To me) Rationalization is convincing the mind something is right that the spirit knows is wrong.
Ugh. So what is the point of this rant? Is it to whine about not being able to make a page? (maybe, a little). But mainly, its just to show that there are others out there that have daily struggles with "little things". And its important to stick to your convictions, no matter how trivial they may seem when scrutinized.
Ok, rant off. =)
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
hmm, title?
Ever feel like just screaming? Or, how about just going "blahhhhhh"? That's how I feel off and on right now. I am being bombarded with a ton of junk right now. I'm easily frustrated with things. I am trying hard to focus. I pray when I'm feeling this way. I thank God for allowing me the things in my life that do frustrate me (Glad that I have kids, husband, a job, etc).
It seems like Satan is attacking me around every corner right now. And I guess, it makes sense. I know God has things He wants me to do, and Satan will try everything to stop that.
....
On a positive note, I finally wrote my step-mother a letter of apology for being such a jerk to her when I first met her (and until I moved away). She should get it by the end of the week. I pray that it helps.
Well, laundry is calling my name. Until next time!
It seems like Satan is attacking me around every corner right now. And I guess, it makes sense. I know God has things He wants me to do, and Satan will try everything to stop that.
....
On a positive note, I finally wrote my step-mother a letter of apology for being such a jerk to her when I first met her (and until I moved away). She should get it by the end of the week. I pray that it helps.
Well, laundry is calling my name. Until next time!
Labor Day Weekend
We went to Myrtle Beach for the weekend (we were there Friday-Monday). It was a very lovely trip. It was the first time that both of our kids were at the beach. Nate had a blast. He is fearless when it comes to waves!!! Kierstyn had lots of fun, too.
There was some head-butting with John's parents though. Pray that God does a LOT of work in that area =(
But, mostly the trip was great.
Saturday John and his father went golfing, while I took Kierstyn swimming. (Nate was asleep at that time). Saturday night, John and I had a little "date night" we went walking on the beach for a while and then went out for ice cream. Sunday we took the kids to the beach, and then we went out to the mall (the mall in Myrtle Beach is lousy!). We also took Kierstyn putt-putt golfing. Monday we headed out around 9am and got home around 2pm.
I'm glad to be back home!
There was some head-butting with John's parents though. Pray that God does a LOT of work in that area =(
But, mostly the trip was great.
Saturday John and his father went golfing, while I took Kierstyn swimming. (Nate was asleep at that time). Saturday night, John and I had a little "date night" we went walking on the beach for a while and then went out for ice cream. Sunday we took the kids to the beach, and then we went out to the mall (the mall in Myrtle Beach is lousy!). We also took Kierstyn putt-putt golfing. Monday we headed out around 9am and got home around 2pm.
I'm glad to be back home!
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