Yesterdays Faith is not enough for today.

In church we are working our way through Genesis. We covered a story I have never heard (shocking after growing up in church and in a christian school). Genesis 9:18-29

After getting past the amazing encouragement found in seeing such a great man as Noah make infantile mistakes, I got so much more from this odd passage! Honesty, it is continuously frustrating to see myself falter in the same areas over and over again, no matter how many times I try to "be better." So to know that it is more a reflection of our human nature than our faith, my heart was encouraged. BUT one statement in the sermon remained heavy on my heart. "Yesterday's Faith is not enough for today." And how profound to think. In the words of Lloyd Shadrach: You cant stockpile faith. He compared faith to breathing ... yesterdays breath was not enough to keep you going today. You have to keep breathing! You need another measure of faith in the same way to get through today's obstacles. The faith you built yesterday is not sufficient for the days to come, however, we build further on the faith.

So what have you done today to build your faith...to increase the roots by which you live by today? After all...you never know what obstacles await around the corner! So why not prepare yourself?

Who you really are!

When you woke this morning ... did you smile at your day or cringe and hit snooze? Do you face each moment knowing your capabilities or fearful of your failures? Do you focus on your weakness or your strengths? Do you step over your past and move forward or are you blocked by the past that got you off track? Do you see yourself through the worlds eyes or through Gods?

I think the GREATEST obstacle we face each day is our own opinion of ourselves! What others think of us is meaningless unless we choose to believe it! Our pasts do not define us unless we let it! So...I ask. Are you fallen to these obstacles or are you choosing to have a Godly perspective of who you are?

We can accomplish more if we choose to believe what God says about us!

Quit looking in a distorted mirror of what peers and partners and parents have said to you. Start repeating what God says about you: "I am acceptable, I am lovable, I am valuable, I am forgivable, and I am capable."

Psalm 27:10 says, "Even if my mother and father forsake me, the Lord will receive me." What others think is variable when you first consider what God thinks. Just like knowing monopoly money counterfeit to US American currency. We can know the truth of what others say about us, by first considering what our GOD says about us. And rest in the fact that even in our failures HE chooses us. Wants us and Loves us unconditionally!

Psalm 139:14 God says,“you are fearfully and wonderfully made." In Psalm 17, "you are the apple of His eye." In Deuteronomy 7:6, God tells you that you are "His treasured possession." In Philippians 4:8, God tells us we are to think about whatever is "true, noble, right, pure, and lovely."

If you struggle to believe what he thinks about you, read in His Word the truth of what He says about you, believe it, and let Him change your heart.

I am a child of God John 1: 12
I am a joint-heir with Christ Romans 8: 17
I am the righteousness of God in Christ. 2 Cor.5: 21
I am the temple of the Holy Spirit. 1 Cor. 6: 19
I am the apple of His eye. Zec.2: 8
I am an ambassador for Christ. 2 Cor.5: 20
I am free from condemnation Romans 8: 1
I am more than a conqueror Romans 8: 17
I am the salt of the earth. Mathew 5: 13
I am the light of the world Mathew 5: 14 & Eph. 5: 8
I am a member of the household of faith Gal.6 :10
I am a branch of the True Vine John 15: 5
I am the will of God James 1: 8
I am in the palm of the Lord’s Hand Isa. 49: 16
I am covered by the shadow of His Hand Isa. 51: 6
I am loved by God as much as He loves Jesus John 17:23
I am in God’s Hand and none can pluck me out John10:28
I am delivered from sin Romans 6: 7
I am free from weaknesses and diseases. Matt.8: 17
I am complete in Him. Col.2: 10
I am translated into the kingdom of God’s Son.Col.1:13
I am delivered from the power of darkness Col. 1: 13
I am accepted in Him Eph. 1: 6
I am dead to sin and alive to God in Christ.Rom.6:11
I am seated in heavenly places in Christ. Eph. 2: 6
I am redeemed from the curse of the law. Gal. 3: 13
I am in Christ. 1 Cor. 1: 30
I am hidden with Christ in God. Col. 3: 3

Choose today to believe what GOD says you are!

Faith that moves mountains...

Please continue to pray for the Atwood family as their faith grows and their hearts heal. Pray for them as their family continues to build their hope and restore their joy. Pray that they hear from all the numerous people who have been moved, challenged and changed by the ONE day their son lived in this world. Pray that they continue to rejoice knowing that their Son will see them again in Heaven!

Trevor and Keva Atwood have two adopted sons, Micah from Russia and Isaac from Ethiopia. They brought a beautiful baby boy, Chai, into the world last week and God welcomed him home shortly after. As they buried their little boy's lifeless body, their faith resounded to everyone around them as they claimed the glory of their almighty God! I dont know how to endure such heartache or how to cope with such loss, but I do know that God granted them a STRONG faith to pull them through and shine as such Godly examples to the rest of us. I have not seen this family since college (other than on facebook), but my life and my faith has been and will continue to see huge growth due in part to this little life and to his family!

These were the words of a brokenhearted father at the funeral for his son: (prepare your hearts, for these words are not what you would expect! This is a true testament to a relationship with the almighty GOD!)

"How many tears can I cry until I have none left? I may find the answer to that mystery soon.

My youngest son lived just over 1 Day. How do I make that make any sense- to me, to my wife, to my Micah and my Isaac? There is only one hope of even beginning to understand this. It is the same hope that offers us any understanding for all of our lives, no matter the length. It is the sure hope of the glory of God.

Despite our world's narcissistic understanding of existence, this world, our lives, were not created for us. We were made to image God. To show him off. To display his character. To declare truth in the midst of falsehood, light in the darkness. In short, the purpose for life is to bring fame and glory to God.

Many miss this truth. Many live long lives, amass great wealth, become loved and adored by millions, and even do very good things for the world...but they miss the truth. Jesus death on the cross and resurrection to life is not a nice story. Neither is it your "ticket to heaven". It is the only way we can do what we were created to do. It is the only way that God made for us to overcome our own treason against a Father that perfectly loves us first. Our self-worship means that we are not worshipping him. Jesus death and resurrection, the gospel, is the only way to true life, one that worships and glorifies God.

Chai Samuel Atwood did not understand this truth. He could not. But God has made a way for children, those who cannot yet understand their own sinful natures and need for redemption, to be brought into his loving fellowship and to be made new. I thank God that Chai is with Jesus awaiting the resurrection of his body.

Chai lived only a day, but through his life and death, many will be reminded of the gospel and, we pray, trust the Jesus who has given him new life. In 24 hours God did more with a helpless, weak, baby than many who do not trust him, live for him, do in an entire lifetime. This is just like God (2 Corinthians 1:26-31). Why do we waste our lives by keeping the gospel silent? Why do we live as if these truths are not real and do not need to be proclaimed? It is because, many times, we think it will show us weak. It will expose us as needy. It will cause others to look at us strangely, to mock us. But God uses the weak to shame the strong so that no one will boast.

So this is where Chai has challenged me. If there is a hope like that of the gospel; a great hope that Romans 8 speaks of, that 1 Corinthians 15 speaks of, a resurrection, a renewal of creation, then I must make it known. I must live as if it is true.

I cannot waste the life and death of Jesus. It is clear that he accomplished salvation on the cross and through his resurrection. I cannot waste the life of my son, Chai. It is clear that his 24 hours of life and all-to-early death have brought the light of the gospel to many. But, I can waste my own life. I can sit on this truth and not live it and speak it daily. I can dope myself with the morphine of my own flesh and this world that comes in the form of life's comforts and ease. Or I can cry out with creation, "Abba, Father! Fix this broken world! Renew this sinful people!" All along, loving and living like there is a resurrection and that the God who created everything through and for his son (Colossians 1:15-20; Romans 11:36) loves me with an everlasting love.

The pain for me makes the message more urgent. Though it will remain, it will lessen in weeks, months, and years to come. For most of you who read this, you will forget the pain even more quickly. Do not pass this opportunity the Lord has afforded to commit yourself to him. It won't happen by promising him to do more or be a better person (Romans 4:5). The change you need, the change you long for, will only come by trusting him with every part of your life.

The gospel is not obey then be loved by God. It is that God has loved you perfectly in Christ, so you want to obey him. Trust him in your marriage. Trust him at your job. Trust him with kids and family. To believe the gospel is to give God everything in response to his great love for you (Romans 12:1-2). This is the way to life (John 1:4).

Chai's name means "Alive". How paradoxical that a child whose name means "alive" died in order for God to bring the message of life in Christ to many.

Does the life you have been graciously given scream the truth of the gospel? Chai's life and death has now for 24 hours and will continue to eternity.

I love you, son. Rest well in Christ."

I am, and will never apologize for being, a CHRISTIAN.

Christian catch such crap for living a double standard. We get trapped and tripped by people who try their hardest to catch us flawed and fallen, weak and wrong! Truth be known, Christians do not wish to display perfection. We do not claim to be holy. We just try and what it really comes down to is being even more aware of our flaws than those trying to trip us up, hence the reason we ever acknowledged our need for a savior.

This is the clearest and most pure view, I have heard, of the Christian I claim to be!
(Those who judge, go ahead, realizing you prob. arent going to reveal anything that I am not already aware needs to be "fixed.")

I am a Christian!

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not shouting "I'm clean livin'."
I'm whispering "I was lost,
Now I'm found and forgiven."

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
and need Christ to be my guide.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak
And need His strength to carry on.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed
And need God to clean my mess.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect,
My flaws are far too visible
But, God believes I am worth it.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain.
I have my share of heartaches
So I call upon His name.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not holier than thou,
I'm just a simple sinner
Who received God's good grace.

Digging your heals in.

I am more thankful than I can say how life has seemingly settled! Maybe it was true events of the past 10 years or maybe it was immaturity, but my life always seemed as though it were FULL of curve balls! I always felt as though I were on my toes or crashing fast! Life these days ... it is much more systematic. A home (so no moving around) a job (for the past 4 1/2 years) and a great church, great friends, incredible relationship...life is GOOD.

So, in reflecting I was reminded of a quote.

"God will shake everything surrounding you, in order to prove to you that HE has your feet on SOLID GROUND!"

This quote causes me to wonder. With life being so comfortable, does that mean I have learned to KNOW the unshaken ground I stand on...or does it mean I should dig my heals in and prepare? I remember clinging to this quote so many nights in order to find what little joy I could in circumstances of my past! I am so thankful that I was able to know what I stood on, in order to stand through the "curve balls" I put myself in line for.

As a side note: You know, I cant tell you how many times I was told, nor how many people told me do as I say not as I do" and now...I pray that one day at least one child will head that same advice. Mistakes are only mistakes until you learn from them...but the consequences and the pain is a journey to overcome. So ... all to say (in a rabbit-trail) When life leaves you uneasy or unsure, remember the ground you stand on! If your grounded in faith, you can trust that the core of who you are is left unshaken, simply molded to become more in line with the man or woman GOD desires you to be.

Knowing that I am no where near the woman God intends...and having much to learn and more to grow, I guess in the seasons of simplicity and ease...we prepare to ground ourselves for the next lesson we are going to learn!

Fresh Faith...from an random perspective

I woke up this morning and read about wisdom. I drove to work this morning wondering if my life displays wisdom? Solomon was known for wisdom. What made him wise? What did he do that credited his life to be considered "wise." And do I hold qualities that make my life worthy of such?

Makes me think back to the "Sunday school lesson" on the talents. Wisdom comes from the Lord. And according to the story of the talents God gives according to the diligence of His children. Today I wondered if God has given me wisdom in which I have chosen not to utilize. Have I buried my wisdom to hold on to it? Have I used it carelessly or have I taken, learned and applied it? With what I have been given, have I made myself worthy of receiving more? Do I live a life of wisdom or a life where wisdom take a back shelf?

I often consider my opportunities and wonder if I made the most of them. I dont want to look back on my life and see chances I had to be the woman of God I could have been. I wanna know that as God grows and stretches me, that I am acting in accordance.

This morning I was also reminded that our "work" is rooted in our faith. It is at times difficult to act when we have no belief in the action or in the outcome. So I ask...do my actions reflect the strength of my faith or is the depth of my faith too shallow to produce a life resembling my faith.

Faith. Belief. I was raised to know that I know what I know. I was raised in church, a christian school and among peers that "accommodated" my faith. I would say encouraged. However, when you are brought up among "christians" you find quickly that the role itself can at times be as shallow as a role. When faith is a role, it is accommodated. When Faith is a life...it is encouraged and built up! Anyway, When I went to college, I quickly found my faith challenged. I was accused of believing simply because I was told to. Which lead me to really dig and discover what I believed. I wanted to own my faith rather than being handed my faith on a platter in the form of pews, private school tuition and bible studies. I wanted simply what all those things gave me the desire to want. To know that I know what I know!

When you dig. You learn and when you learn you grow. And when you grow...you stumble. You face moments that test what you are taught. Dedication determines the outcome of your stumble. Will you fall and retreat or will you fall and persevere?

I stand now as a 28 year old that stumbles on a daily, if not hourly basis! But I also stand with deep roots in my faith. A faith that is MINE to claim. A faith I can live by because it has been challenged, tested and remained steadfast.

Not as if I have "arrived," because the life of faith is never accomplished...rather it is constantly developed. But now, my faith is to produce a life that exemplifies what I believe. For 'faith without works is dead.'[James]

In any job that you master, you grow tired of the repetition. I am so thankful that my relationship with God is an ongoing pursuit on both parts. Never growing weary of the fresh faith He gives me each day! Helps me see how incredibly blessed I am!

Grace

Grace. What does it mean to you. Have you truly stopped to realize the gift you have received in grace? Have you grasped the amazing God that desires to look past our fault and see our possibility?

In church this week the most profound statement left echoing in my mind has been: grace produces faith that leads to obedience. How wonderful to know that our obedience is not a requirement for grace but a production of the grace so freely given!

Humility reveals our need for the grace of GOD...Faith reveals our trust in His grace!

I am so thankful to be saved by grace! The law was in place prior to Christ's death on the cross, but his death was a transition of sorts in which grace was introduced and the grip of the law was released.

The laws demands: Do your best with your resources to live up to the high and holy standards of God. IMPOSSIBLE!

It is impossible to build a relationship with God with that plan of action. Our resources limit our ability to be "good enough." The law only produces defeat. It is simply by grace that we are able to walk with God and have a relationship with God. Accepting that grace and living by that grace is what enables us to know Him. When we act on our own, pride and self reliance hinder our relationship with God. They give us a false realization of what we are capable of. Pride blinds us to our need. Self-reliance causes us to stumble. Humility and Faith are the building blocks of a relationship with the Almighty because in humility and faith we see our need and trust His fulfillment.

Humility allows us to stand before God IN GRACE. GRACE is the very essence of God drawing us close to Himself in our current condition. Faith is the next essential step. Trusting God for his provision, that is Faith!

Humility says: "I need what you have." Faith says: "I trust you are sufficient for my need."

The results of God's grace is to bear fruit. Producing a life that honors that grace. Grace produces a growing life of obedience. I read in my devotional yesterday that grace leads to courage. Courage is edified by knowing grace. How much more dedicated and driven would you be, knowing that someone saw it fit to have grace on you. That drive is courage result of grace, result of pardon.

John 15:4-5 "Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing."

The grace of God stirs our faith and we find that in spending time in the word and with our God, we realize his life filters ours and produces fruit! Going to church to merely go, or reading to say we read, talking the talk with out walking the walk is no different that wax fruit. True fruit is produced from a relationship, not from religion or ritual expectations.

I love living with God's grace on my mind! It causes me to view possibilities differently! It produces hope for every moment! Because of Grace...my life can far exceed the limitations of my human nature! I can be Christ-like!

And another great encouragement is knowing that when I faulter...God's grace is an all-sufficient supply! A God with so much grace to grant us, is a God that sees something GREAT in us!

Are you living today with the realization of the possibility that God sees when He looks at you?

Insecurity surmounts...

Insecurity (by definition)

in·se·cure (ns-kyr)
adj.

1. Not sure or certain; doubtful
2. Inadequately guarded or protected; unsafe
3. Not firm or fixed; unsteady
4. Lacking stability; troubled
5. Lacking self-confidence; plagued by anxiety

Insecurity is our greatest guard and our worst enemy. Insecurity tantalizes our thoughts and balances our risky behavior. Insecurity is all in all a win lose situation. It gives you the reality of our situations and the presumption of our fears. The core of insecurity is defeat and destruction. Feeding our fears and driving our tears.

After reading these definitions I realized something. Those who claim to be believers can rest in the Lord to dismount all insecurities. Let me explain:

1. Insecurity says I am not sure. The Bible however states: "Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me." Psalm 54:4 Those who love God, can rest in in knowing that they know what the know is what they know to be true! They can be sure.

2. Insecurity says I am vulnerable. The Bible says: "Let the beloved of the LORD rest secure in Him, for He shields him all day long, and the one the LORD loves rests between His shoulders." Deuteronomy 33:12 When our identity is in the Lord we are guarded and He has our best interest at heart!

3. Insecurity says I am unsteady. The Bible reminds us "If the LORD delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand." Psalm 37:23-24 Our lives are steady and stable when we live a life pleasing to the Lord we love.

4. Insecurity says I am troubled. The Bible says: "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God ; trust also in me." John 14:1 and "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27 God pleads with us to trust Him when troubles arise. Our perception is skewed by our limited vision. Trouble to us may be the avenue for blessings later. Trust makes trouble bearable and leaves insecurity lifeless.

5. Insecurity says I am anxious. The Bible says: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Phillipians 4:6 We can take all concerns to the One who can offer our hearts comfort that produces peace! Peace dispels all insecurity. They cannot coexist!

So for every definition of Insecurity the Bible refutes its hold and offers us answers of hope! Let your hearts be comforted in the ONE who desires to give you a hope and a future!

Where is the richest place in the world?

Take a wild guess.

Would you say the city of New York, Saudi Arabia, Japan, The Gold Coast of Ghana, or perhaps The Oil Wells of Kuwait? Many of us can rack our brains to think of riches beyond our wildest dreams. However...the richest place on Earth is a place that never cashed in. A place who left all to chance and never let their dreams take flight.

The richest place on earth is the graveyard. Where there lie paintings never painted, books never written, businesses never begun, dreams never pursued. Relationships never started, songs never sung, items never produced.

So, will you rest in peace or will you take your dreams to the grave? If you have dreams ideas or aspirations what are you doing to pursue them? What are you accomplishing?

Will you aide in making the graveyard richer still or will you pursue the dreams God granted to your heart. Afterall, we are here for a time to accomplish good. He has placed a purpose in each of us that we are trusted to accomplish.

Inspired by a Quote:

"Do not think that love, in order to be genuine, has to be extraordinary. What we need is to love without getting tired."-Mother Teresa



Burdened by the attribute of love is a wound most lie unaware of.
When love flutters and carries our souls, we find existing simple and divine.
We see a world of color hidden to the eyes of those in forced affection.
Love can bring the fresh breath of new dawn or strike an empty hollow hole.
Where will you seek to let your heart tread?
With burden or blessings, simplicity or grievance?
When you love another, do you face exhaustion or refreshed by the blessed new hope?

Love is simply stated. Love is a a longing we all face. Love is a craving and fulfillment. Love is meant to produce energized endearment.

We need not find the complexity of love, but the most raw form of genuine expression. Look to find the honesty, and your labor will not be in vain. You will find yourself revived from love and feel loved more in the same!

Love.

Oh they joys of falling in love. We all know the moments and memories!! The feelings that sweep you literally off your feet and then as if your body carried no wait your head is suddenly in the clouds and you cant control yourself!

This morning my alarm went off and a song came on, which Im sure is popular at the moment but it was the first time I heard it. I love love love when my alarm goes off and God gives me something huge to think on. It always does one of two things. Either Im going to lie in bed and really ponder the heart of my God. OR I am going to get up and really challenge my own heart!

This morning was the latter. How many times do you hear, "Dont settle?" I would say most of us at some point in the dating scheme have been reminded of what we are worth and not to settle for less. Some of us hold out and wait for the "desire of our heart." And others of us end up "ok" with so much less than we deserve. So much less than our loving God wants for us in life.

This blog is not about relationships though! Ha. Take all the thoughts that came to mind while reading thus far and now focus on this:

"Have you ever really fallen head over heals for your GOD?"

Has He ever become THAT real to you? Has HE been you sole focus and distraction from life or is life the distraction on a consistent basis? When is the last time you let Him swoon you? When have you let go because He was the only thing you wanted?

And to take it a step further, when did you let your relationship with God and your love for Him be every bit as intense as it possibly could be? Are you in a relationship with God that is a "settling point" or are you challenging yourself to have the relationship with Him that He meant for you? Are you allowing Him to reveal His whole self to you? Or do you want to settle for the relationship that doesnt need maintaining or upkeep?

Listen to these lyrics and then reflect on what you have allowed yourself to settle for, then maybe you will find a the challenge I did this morning to step in with a little more determination and enthusiasm to catch who He really is and how much our hearts are truly drawn to HIS!


Give me rules I will break them
Give me lines I will cross them
I need more than a truth to believe
I need a truth that lives, moves, and breathes
To sweep me off my feet
It ought to be

More like falling in love
Than something to believe in
More like losing my heart
Than giving my allegiance
Caught up, called out
Come take a look at me now
It's like I'm falling, oh
It's like I'm falling in love

Give me words I'll misuse them
Obligations I'll misplace them
'Cause all religion ever made of me
Was just a sinner with a stone tied to my feet
It never set me free
It's gotta be

...It's like I'm falling in love, love, love
Deeper and deeper
It was love that made
Me a believer
In more than a name, a faith, a creed
Falling in love with Jesus brought the change in me


I dont know about you, but as far as my relationship with my God goes, Id rather my head be in the clouds than a stone tied to my feet!

What do you expect from you relationship?

True Beauty.

Have you ever seen Wisteria? The purple flowers that look like grapes? I have always been completely mesmerized by these flowers! The vines grow so delicate and climb to reveal various sizes of these purple flowers! The flowers hang from the vines with both beauty and gentle simplicity.

I understand that not all of you will have an appreciation for flowers, but no skimming allowed..ha. Follow me for a second! ;)

Tonight I was driving and I saw around three or four Wisteria plants, full grown. They were planted in the middle of the yard! They were growing like mad, but they were given nothing to climb. They were still beautiful and producing incredible fruit, but they were missing that piece that always made me stand in awe.

Made me think about our lives and how at times we do the same. We may have a wonderful life. We may be content and happy, but what is beauty without awe? Have you given yourself what you need in order to reach your full potential? Are you challenging yourself enough to really be eye catching or are you settling for the type of beauty that come naturally with little to no effort or upkeep?

For the wisteria, all if needed was a post or fence or something to climb. For us it can be many things, but think today about what you have neglected to give yourself to challenge that true beauty? The kind from the inside that makes others notice a difference. Because if you cause people to stop and watch and you are living for God, they may just find something more than surface level. They may step up to the challenge as well!

Just a simple thought:

Dont forget to appreciate people and enjoy the simple conversations! Take time to talk and connect. I am speaking very much to myself at this moment! I am the worlds worst at getting so caught up in the moment and so busy with the "to do's" that I let others fall by the wayside. But today in a wonderful conversation, I was reminded that a simple conversation and wonderful laughter can make the difference between a good and bad day! So dont miss the humor and the connection as result of being busy! Life goes on...and it will never matter where you are going if you dont have others there with you when you get there.

Comforted by His Company

"I will never leave you..."

We all hear this reminder. It is often spoke as comfort. To ease the present situation. To know you are not standing in difficulty on your own. This is a true statement. However, as a challenge to us through this verse. Try to contemplate it for the week. Keep it on mind. We should all think of what it means in light of this question: "Where are you taking Him."

God states boldly that "[He] will never leave [us] or forsake us." But with that in mind what direction are you walking in life. Have you ever stopped mid plans to think about what you are dragging your relationship with God through? Or on the contrary, are you letting God lead you? Are you following where He guides? Life is not all serious. I understand that, but in light of comparison, think for a moment about a relationship in modern day. Would you be madly in love with a guy and then drag him along as you flirt and tease the guy at the bar? Would you take your pastor to the party this weekend? Would you expect your parents to follow willingly on your date? Some of you live a life "above reproach." To those these wouldnt be difficult, although unlikely to offer any chance of a cheating heart. But the party you would attend would be fine to include a pastor. Your night out would be no different with your parents in tow. But for others we live an "out of sight out of mind" type lifestyle.

What would you do different this week if you realized the truth in God's words "I will never leave you?" What decisions would you think twice about and what reflection of a Christian would you present? I cant help but wonder if this mindset would reverse the reputation Christians have obtained...if the consistency and genuine lifestyle would make a difference.

So go through your normal week knowing that you are not alone! It is a verse that comforts our hearts in difficulty, but He is around for more than just our broken and shattered lives. He is here for the joyful moments and the thankful moments as well. Acknowledgment can make a world of difference. And letting Him take the reigns a while may really surprise you! You may find that your life is rich with opportunity that your choices didn't allow you to see!

Have a blessed week and know that you are not alone! He has your back every step of the way!

Its not Over Over

I heard a story today about a kid at a baseball game. The team they were there to cheer for was down by 10 or 11 runs in the top of the 7th. The dad wanted to leave. The child asked is it over? To which the dad replied "Yes, sort of." The boy looked intently and repeated "No, is it over-over?"

I went to the Vanderbilt Auburn game here in Nashville a couple years back and remember the frustration of watching my team plummet. We had had a wonderful season and to beat Vandi would have been icing on the cake. However at the start of the fourth I was ready to leave. The game was done. I knew the outcome wouldnt be pretty. I knew it would leave me even more frustrated that I already was. Sometimes, accepting the inevitable is better than facing reality...but at those times we need to have the perspective of a kid. The perseverence of a child. The vision of innocence. Because its not OVER-over.

May I be so bold as to ask: What in your life feels over? What is it that you are trying to accomplish that people around you are walking out, telling you its "over?" Those are the moments you need to face the fact that its not over over...you never know when the end result holds the element of surprise. Or the determination to overcome is what you are suppose to walk away with on the other side. Dig your heels in and stand firm.

Even the Bible is full of instances that are left to mystery. Not everything can make sense or be predicted. Sometimes we have faith, and that's it. Sometimes, your faith is what carries you through. SO...keep praying, keep working, keep believing. You never know when the answers, the yes, the faith or the payoff is right around the corner! BECAUSE ITS NOT OVER OVER. :)

We all have an issue with "Madness"

So on Wed this week Gillian had a really rough day. I must say there was obviously something in the air, you know, since she is the most well mannered kid on the planet! ha. Anywho. She argued, sassed, and even manipulated for the majority of the day. Every time I attempted to offer a consequence it was thrown back in my face. (I didnt want to have a playdate, I wasnt planning to watch any tv, who wants to have a treat not me) So after a full on battle of the wills, I brought my day to its conclusion.

I must say, children may not always win, but when you lay them to sleep at the end of the day, I am glad they don't know how close they are to shutting us down. ha. I was exhausted. Worn down and discouraged. Unsure of how tomorrow would end up. However, to my relief, Thursday was incredibly pleasant. Then on Friday when we were discussing how all of the kids "panned out" on the allowance chart, Gillian and I had a deep heart to heart. She is too young to earn an allowance, but we do check marks for her chores (bed teeth toys and behavior) After a LONG calm conversation about the way we act and the perception we give others of our character she utters this as an offering of a humble apologetic plea.

"I'm sorry Lisa, next week I will try to control my madness."

After a lovely tear wrenching laugh with her, she promised to be better. I left that Friday with a mindful. You know we are all in Gillian's shoes. We all have our own bouts of "madness." The question is do you stop and listen to be humble and realize where your "madness" lies? Is it anger, hate, judgment, jealousy, or is it simple laziness? What ever your weakness, know that our God desires to have a heart to heart conversation with each of us as well, not to condemn. Not to ridicule. He desires to encourage us to be better. To recognize areas we can attempt to improve.

Reminds me of the fact that God doesn't call those who are improved. He calls those willing to improve. He doesn't expect any of us to take a single step on our own. He wants to love us where we are and help us see what we can become! He sees the bigger picture and wants to give us the vision.

I challenge everyone, including myself, to listen humbly to the areas God is encouraging you to improve! Allow yourself to feel empowered to improve not discouraged by the process.

Have a blessed weekend and know that every step you take, there is opportunity waiting for your arrival! Enjoy.

Listen with a humble ear

"The student is never above the teacher."

People will always attempt to advise. Sometimes even before they attempt to listen. Our greatest fault as people seems to be the "need" to have an answer. Which at the core holds pride. The worst advice I have ever received in life has come from the prideful. Have you ever vented to someone, listened to their advice and then wondered if you both just had the same conversation because you had NO CLUE what they were talking about? The best advice I have ever had in my life came from a humble friend who listened intently and then just said she would pray for me. Sometimes not having the answer allows people to turn to the One they need to hear the advice from.

We need to stop loving to listen to ourselves. We need to quit thinking so much about what we are going to say next, and take the time to listen!

The most amazing thing I have heard in the past month was this: "You will never be able to lead anyone beyond where you, yourself, are." The whole message of the plank in your own eye. If we are not caring for ourselves, how are we going to be healthy enough to care for others.

Nurture can be a remedy not only for those around us...but for ourselves too!

Allow your self to see the areas you need to focus on to give yourself a healthy place to stand and then attempt to listen to others in order to offer a helping hand.

Relief from being a let down . . .

I found old sermon notes today from a sermon that was who-knows how long ago...but being that I typed them out and saved them on a hard drive, I figured they were worth rereading! :)

So...The sermon was on Fear of the Lord. The meaning or impact I got from the notes today was completely different. Amazing how a message can affect you in such variation from day to day. Well reading the words gave me a ton of comfort because of what is on my mind today. I hope you all enjoy and I hope it gives you reflection and a challenge in your own life.

Here is what I got from it:

Reading this today gave me a multitude of relief. Encouragement. I have so many situations surrounding me that have me "heavy." While trying to live my own life, I am trying to keep everyone else happy. I am trying to make decisions and nurture relationships, heck just trying to maintain relationships. I am trying to hold everything in balance, which I am not so great at! I am juggling so many things and yet GOD is asking me to let them go! Let them all go completely. It is not up to me to hold it together. It is my duty to make sure I am taking care of myself and living life to the best of my ability. Rather than monitoring the affairs of everyone else, I need to discipline myself to care for myself. I have wasted so much time. I think a big part of that is to distract myself from what truly needs to be taken care of. My own hurts, my grievances, my grudges, anger, insecurities.

I need to focus on making my life reflect the life I want people around me to have, a blessed life. I need to develop a Fear of the Lord enabling me to make quicker decisions based on what would please the Father, not those around me. I cannot carry the weight of everyone's happiness on my shoulders. It isn’t what I am called to. And in doing so I am missing opportunities to fulfill my own calling.

So in making decisions based on my Fear of the Lord I realize people will turn from me. I realize I will lose favor with some. But I need to live what I believe and my conscience will be far less burdened with guilt. Afterall, I cant be everything to everyone. Sometimes you do, as an individual, have to bow out gracefully and take care of you! The guilt I carry for being unavailable to others is a crutch for me. It keeps my potential limited.

In nurturing my own health, physically, mentally and spiritually, I hope to be more equipped to help others!

Perspective

I'm sitting at the gym watching a class of four year olds run a "torch" around the gym (with no clue they are exercising!) Its Olympics day at gymnastics. Got me thinking about perspective. Mainly because of the heavy guilt trip this moment gave me, for not having been to gym myself in ... lets just say a while. ha.

Perspective energizes people. Motivates their desires and justifies their distastes. Perspective is the point of view by which you live. And anyone who thinks their perspective is not affecting their actions is blind to the influence sight holds.

The young 21 year old who lost his life this past week on the lunge course for the Olympics had a perspective that lead him to not only his death, but his life as well. His perspective was on the gold. Realistically he was fearful of the journey, but his perspective gave him courage. Although it is a sad story and a hard concept to swallow, that young boy deserves to be admired. His perspective motivated him past his fear. It landed him on an Olympian team at the age 21!

Perspective allows a grieving mother stand before a huge crowd of tear filled gazes and speak of how blessed she was to be her daughter's mother for 12 years. Perspective that her daughters passing was not loss in entirety, it was also a blessed gain. Perspective reveals the lives that were affected and the love shared. Perspective gave her not only closure, but confidence that her daughter was in a better place!

As teams face their rivals and people face their fears, when sick face their disease and marriage faces destruction, perspective causes that next step. However, perspective can cause you to step back as easily as it can drive you to step forward. You choose which perspective you will take.

Albert Einstein mentioned that "In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity." Perspective gives you the discernment to see it. Perspective gives the strength to pursue it. Perspective gives you the motivation to claim it!

Alexander Duma made an incredible point when he said "There is neither happiness nor misery in the world; there is only the comparison of one state to another, nothing more. He who has felt the deepest grief is best able to experience supreme happiness. We must have felt what it is to die, that we may appreciate the enjoyments of life." Although we all have a story, we all develop a perspective from it. We can choose to see life through bitter retaliation or hopeful expectation. It is only when your heart experiences true heartbreak or a difficult trials, that you value the blessings and the benefits of life. With out the valleys the mountain tops aren't nearly as majestic!

Breath in a perspective today that allows you to live life to its fullest!

In memory of an incredible blessing!

So as always...when my heart hurts, my fingers find the keys...sweet relief. To take the pain and put it on paper somehow comforts me. I don't know what brings pain on. I'm not sure if it is just life in general or memories that taunt my emotions. But it can be even the best of days that bring pain, as easily as the worst.

Sometimes the strain of open wounds can bring me to my knees. Others, the joy of a peaceful day gives time for reflection on missed memories. Tonight, its the latter. Today was a wonderful day. Today was peaceful, simple, and fulfilling. Today I loved on three amazing children. Today I was told "I love you" by a four year old with no inhibitions. A child who speaks exactly what she feels and is not afraid to say it! And somehow...those words..."I love you" are completely different coming from a child. Children say what they want...I love you, I hate you, I want you to go away, I miss you, ... they don't hold back and they don't worry about how it will be taken or what the outcome will be. It is raw and its honest!

I am blessed! Truly blessed to have a career that surrounds me with such honesty! I wish I learned more how to be so honest in return. How to not care ... but to just speak the truth of my emotions. I'm mad. I'm hurt. I'm sad. I miss you. I love you.

So all that to say, I have dealt inwardly for over a month. Truth be known, with most things in my life I do that. I hold it all inside and I deal, until the emotions pass. However, sometimes it just becomes too much.

The best part of working with children is that when they love you, you do not question it. You can trust it! And that love both given to you and by you becomes a life long commitment! When you love a child...you love them forever. Any parent can attest. That love produces hope for them, joy in them, encouragement for them and pride in who they become.

The worst part about my job is when that love leads you into a situation where you feel pain that is inconceivable. When a child loses his way and chooses to betray the morals they were taught, or when fear of them facing pain, both mental or physical, consumes you. Or in this case, when pain of losing a child envelopes you.

I am a 28 year old single female with no children, of my own. But I have had the privilege of LOVING and caring for more children than I can count. I am not their parent, nor would I ever try to overstep into that position. But 20 years from now...they can count on me still having that same sense of pride in who they are. The same hope for who they can become, and the same joy in loving them.

In October, Hallee Cartwright passed away. I nannied her and her sister for 2 1/2 years. They were two precious and energetic kids! They were full of life, and I was blessed to spend most every day of those years with them. At that time, so many people asked me why I worked such long hours or would be there at the first ring of my phone...For each birthday, or special occasion. And today I look back and see that it wasn't dedication for my job...it was dedication for those girls! It was because I loved who they were and I was proud of their accomplishments, however big or small. And now, having lost one of them, I wish I would have been there even more. I wish I could have just one more memory, or story to reflect on. One more laugh, or even tear...so long as it was with her.

And with where I am now...that is why I love what I do...because every moment is special. Even if it seems insignificant to us...it is one more memory we will have later! So don't miss out...Don't over look or trade those moments...

We are not guaranteed another hour...you hear the statement ever so often...but truth is, we aren't! We have this moment, right now. And it is up to us to seize those moments or miss them...and trust me on the side of the situation where you don't have any more opportunities...you want to know you had all the moments you could.

Simple Challenge!

i'm walking through the bright white gates. Breathing in and out your grace. All around me melodies rise. That echo with the joy inside.

So i start to sing, But I cant sing loud enough. I can't sing loud enough when I'm singing for You my God! I can't sing loud enough. I can't sing loud enough when I'm singing for You my God!

With a thunder roll and a brilliant light. Your glory boasts and the heavens shine. The saints and angels stand in awe. Captured by the beauty of it all.

So I fall to my knees, but i can't bow low enough. I can't bow low enough at the vision of You my God. I can't bow low enough. I can't bow low enough at the vision of You my God!

I can't hold it all inside. I'm reaching for the One who brought me out of death and into life. But i can't lift my hands high enough. I cant lift my hands high enough when I'm reaching for You my God. I can't lift my hands high enough. I cant lift my hands high enough when I'm reaching for You my God!

-Phil Whickham, Cielo

I have had an incredible weekend! It began with the stomach virus...and ended with a humbling awe of what God is able to accomplish, even in our weakness! As someone who LOVES to write...it is moving to have such a flood of emotions and not be able to find words deep enough to constitute! I dont know where everyone is in life, what you believe or who you rely on, but I cant help but look at life and stand awestruck by how GREAT our God is! This song seems to be the best description. There is just so little I can do and it feels so small when the desire to serve him is so much greater than it seems I can accomplish! But I know a willing heart is an empty vessel to him...and so useful. So I love to be empty and willing! I long to be used...(a scary and exciting prayer) :)

Recently I had an idea enter my mind. A HUGE idea for a non for profit business. An idea that I cant wrap my mind around or form a process or plan for. For those who know me, I am one who will chase an idea. I will try anything. Success or failure, doesnt matter. But this one, I dont even know where to begin. So I am just letting the idea resonate! Excited to see the opportunity to watch it happen, yet unable to understand how to make it happen. So I am pleased to be stretched yet again. Learning to wait eagerly to be used and patient to know how!

I am so thankful to be where I am right now. (Im sorry I am all over the place, I hope you can follow) The four year old I nanny asked me last month: "Do you hear God?" To which I responded people hear God in all sorts of ways. And sadly some people dont want to hear him at all. She asked how I hear him. (Keep reading for the typical Gillian response) Being a month later, I really cant wait for her to grasp how wonderful it is to know God and feel his presence and his voice so differently than you do a friend here on Earth! We are encouraged in the word to have a childlike faith...dont complex the simple to make something seem deep. God in his very essence is simplistic in depth. Faith, a child's faith, can grab hold of something so simple and turn simplicity in profound meaning. I love this. It is the joy of my job! As adults we just need to tune in...their question will challenge us to answers beyond our limitations. Our faith is somehow reborn in their curiosity! If, IF you let it!

Gillian's response to my description of God voice was this: "Well, I talked to God last night, because I got scared. And he didnt answer me. I think he had his IPOD turned up too loud!" Ha. As I corrected her with a laugh. I love this little girl! I love that she puts a God I cant fathom into her simple world and makes Him hers! She gets it...maybe not in correct terminology...but she gets it!

Listen to a child this week, let them increase your faith! Stand in awe and soak in his greatness! His glory!

The Health of a Country

So I can only try to wrap my mind around the events in Haiti. It seems complex beyond my comprehension. I know one person there who has spent the past years loving on the people there and to know now what she is going through seems too much to grasp in one thought. My heart goes out to them and the more I hear or watch of the issue, I become more burdened for them. I saw a briefing asking for money to help send crackers. Crackers, the kind that feed a person for a whole day. I dont know why that shocked me so much. But bottom line is, they need support! They need encouragement. They need to be loved on. Which leads me to my point. The US is in a recession of sorts. We are all faced with a financial stupor. The government is faced with such a debt that the idea of the US aiding Haiti is a concept seemly difficult to fathom. This makes me sad to think that the country that is envied among so many other countries has not taken care of themselves. I dont want to get into politics and pointing fingers. I just think over all we were given the structure for success and yet we are where we are. Bizarre.

This reminds me of those of us who are Christians. People all around us face difficulties, as we do. However, we have what we need to cope, depend, encourage and succeed. It is in our best interest that we heed what we are given, and we keep ourselves in a healthy place, because after all if we allow ourselves to "breakdown" we will not be in a healthy enough place to help others when they need us.

As a country, it was our responsibility to not just keep ourselves in a healthy financial state for our own benefit, but for the benefit of the countries that look to us as a successful and admirable country!

What do we each need to do individually to help ourselves to get to a healthy state for ourselves, our country and the countries around us! Where is your influence?

I had to ask myself a hard question as 2009 concluded. What influence have I been. I obviously have influence in work and my home life is very much a reflection of who I am, but how little do I actually invest myself. I have great potential because of the gifts and talents that my God has invested in me. So what am I doing to utilize those talents? Because success in true definition is reaching a full potential!

So, ask yourself, what is your potential? And if you are not reaching your full potential, how can you? I can only imagine the affect it would have on this country if everyone asked themselves those two questions!

Imagine how much more affective we would be as individuals and as a country...

Imagine the relief a country like Haiti could count on in a time of devastation such as now. Imagine how the hurting could count on Christians if we did the same in our lives!

Where is your influence???

Be the Investment

Before writing out this conceptual thought, I must offer the disclaimer than in all situations there are exceptions to everything, this being no different. However, one must take a deep look at their life in order to pass judgment for themselves. For none of us are here to judge another, but to simply live, setting examples of the character we wish to carry forward. I am reminded of the saying “Iron Sharpens Iron,” but this cannot ring true unless we offer insight on the intricate conversations as well as the comfortable ones.

So that being said, not all of us would consider to be “spoiled,” especially with the effects of the recession. But take an honest look at what you have. Not just monetary but in tangible and relational areas as well. For me I don’t like the word “spoiled,” but I will be the first to admit that I live a life that is “richly blessed.” I don’t have the trust funds and vacation homes, but I have people who love me, a job I enjoy, and home that gives me comfort. Although I don’t have everything, I have everything I need. When asked what I wanted for Christmas this year, my response was simple, nothing, I lack for nothing.

My concern over the weekend has been seeing how those who are “richly blessed” don’t always offer themselves to bless others. Myself included. As I have been preparing to plan this dinner of sorts, I realized it is uncharted territory for me. Sad, since as a child I was raised to serve my community. I was involved with Habitat for Humanity and stocking shelves at the Food Bank and even working with under privileged kids. Yet, in the years since I attended college; nothing. I have invested myself in things that were not bad, per say, just more or less for myself. I don’t like living with regrets, but looking back, I would say that this is one. Makes me stop and truly ponder what would have been different, what lives could have been touched. How my life would have changed if others were more a focus than myself.

And also in past experience, I have witnessed that many of us are unreliable, myself included. So even if this meal is planned or a day of service is put together, how would we trust that those of us who are comfortable would help those who are not? Who would show up to get their hands dirty when the life we live keeps them clean? But I have to say in what little I have done in my life; the rewards are far greater than anything I have done to further myself. That what we do for others, is what we take with us in life. Those memories are inconceivably different.

And as a challenge for both myself, and my readers, see the value in who you are, not for selfish gain, but to offer others something they cannot offer themselves. Ask yourself, what talents do you have, to bless those less fortunate. However, big or small your investment, it is still an investment!

Love Will Reside

A heart can beat to a tune of a song
The voice of a friend or the rush of a night.
A heart can carry where we dare not let our feet tread
A heart can mold a person to forgive and forget.
The heart allows our vulnerability to reveal
the softer side and the part that is real
The heart lays us out to be hurt and deceived.
The heart makes way for broken relief

Without the heart, chances are missed
We wouldnt jump or step out and take risks.
Love would be foriegn and lessons unlearned
The love of our God would not be understood

We value others by taking such strides
to go out on a limb and subjected to such strife
Once a blue moon true love will be found
Our hearts find their home and new shelter is found.

Our God never means to allow hearts to break
But we are the ones that choose which roads we will take
He offers his arms to comfort and provide
healing and laughter and love to reside

He longs to give what our hearts long to have
In stepping with his guidance that love we will find
We wait for his hand and step with his pace
We find perfect peace when seeking his face