Hope Floats...

Proverbs 13:12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick; but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.

Have you ever been in that moment, where you're waiting on an answer or action from God? Waiting for... the right mate, a baby, a job, test results, a stronger marriage... this list is endless. I'll be the first to admit I'm not a big fan of waiting. I thrive on organizing, planning and understanding what's coming up and when it's coming. One of my strengths is anticipating needs... so having to hope/want/wish for someone or something obviously doesn't fit my journey model well. But in every step of the waiting process, God is always there. And when he shows himself to be faithful in my hope/want/wish - he is more generous than I could have even hoped for. It's the waiting room mentality that we need to step out of. In the waiting room we become anxious, uneasy, 2nd guessing ourselves, over thinking our need, sometimes desperate... do I dare say, not trusting God? When we truly give our hope, need, longing to God - we're no longer in the waiting room, we are enjoying the journey. Find the silver lining in where you are at, because in this 'step' you will find something that will lead you to God's best for you.

So as you wait - be joyful in hope. Stand firm in your faith. Reflect and medidate on God's word

• His timing is always perfect,
• His wisdom will lead you,
• His strenth will carry you,
• His voice will give you peace

And if you feel doubt looming - stand on His Word
Psalm 56:8 "You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book."

God is just as excited (maybe even more so) about the next chapter in your life. Like a parent at Christmas knowing what's under the tree... Enjoy your journey, let your hope... float.

Romans 12:12 "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer."

Patient Endurance

Re posting this because I needed it today...
Hebrews 12:1 ' ... and let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence the appointed course of the race that is set before us.' -- I LOVE this. Not only because I love to run and the analogy fits me well but I love that God directs us to stay the course with patience. Which to me means that there are going to be things that will distract, encumber, and discourage. But HE who is faithful will deliver me from that if I allow it. So amazed at God's love and and encouragement.
I choose today to be steady, not easily turned, not wavered but set on the course God has prepared for me. And I pursue his calling on my life. I pray for wisdom and blessings to rain on me and my family. I cast out fear, worry, doubt, sickness, strife and bitterness. I will dwell in His perfect love. And taking to heart that we are redeemed.

Deuteronomy 28

28 If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. ² All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God:

³ You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country.
⁴ The fruit of your womb will be blessed, and the crops of your land and the young of your livestock—the calves of your herds and the lambs of your flocks.
⁵ Your basket and your kneading trough will be blessed.
⁶ You will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go out.

⁷ The Lord will grant that the enemies who rise up against you will be defeated before you. They will come at you from one direction but flee from you in seven.

⁸ The Lord will send a blessing on your barns and on everything you put your hand to. The Lord your God will bless you in the land he is giving you.

⁹ The Lord will establish you as his holy people, as he promised you on oath, if you keep the commands of the Lord your God and walk in obedience to him. ¹⁰ Then all the peoples on earth will see that you are called by the name of the Lord, and they will fear you. ¹¹ The Lord will grant you abundant prosperity—in the fruit of your womb, the young of your livestock and the crops of your ground—in the land he swore to your ancestors to give you.

¹² The Lord will open the heavens, the storehouse of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands. You will lend to many nations but will borrow from none. ¹³ The Lord will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom. ¹⁴ Do not turn aside from any of the commands I give you today, to the right or to the left, following other gods and serving them.

Take hold of what God says is yours. Continue the race with patient endurance knowing that He protects, provides, gives wisdom and is eagerly awaiting the next chapter in your life.

Communicate.... less

One of my favorite memories of the early days of dating my hubs was the abundance of notes and letters I got from him. Not that I want to date myself, but this was a time before email, texting and fb were the common forms of communication.

Things I will always remember: how the letter always smelled like him, his beautiful penmanship, and how articulate he was.

A lot gets lost in technology. It feels like we live in an abbreviated world now. Everything has to come faster, and with less information or benefit. Texting during dinner (instead of quality family time), addiction to online games (instead of getting on the floor and playing with the kids), pintrest, facebook, instagram... --- this is my dirty laundry list, feel free to add :). It's what I call cyber reality. Where I convince myself that it's good mental stimulation and at the end of the day it sure has taken a lot of my time. Taking multi-tasking to it's greatest height and maybe one of my epic failures. Don't get me wrong, this form of communication and ability to gain knowledge is great, but in moderation and should be close to the bottom of the list of things you need to do today.

All this to say, take your time and communicate less with your smartphone, laptop, ipad, itouch, etc. Time is a gift.
- Read a book (to encourage you)
- Go on a date (to keep your relationship strong with your spouse) -- and if you can, with 1 phone for emergency calls from the babysitter only
- Read a book to your child (to build your family)
- Play football/games with your children (to build your family)
- Invest in others
   - Send a friend a 'thinking of you' card
   - Host play dates for your kids
   - Make a meal (or desert) for a friend

Ecclesiastes 3:2-8
There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:

² a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
³ a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
⁴ a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
⁵ a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
⁶ a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
⁷ a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
⁸ a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.

 

Don't forget the salt...

One of our weekend rituals is to make pancakes or waffles for breakfast. It's one of the things my family loves most. Well, on this particular day - I seemingly forgot one (what I thought to be probably insignificant) ingredient... SALT. My recipe only calls for 1/2 tsp of it - so after I started ladeling the batter I didn't think it would make a difference. Good grief, what a difference it made - my pancakes were aweful.  How could something so small and in such a small amount make such a big difference!
How often do we overlook our achievements and maybe even potential. Afterall, we're just a 'grain of salt' right? We are the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13). We were meant to change the world. Make no small plans. God has called us to live a life of blessing. To help sustain those who are weak, sooth those who need comfort, to encourage, to help bring to life those who don't know Christ. To BE the salt of the earth...

And just in case you didn't know... some interesting uses for salt:
- Relieve a bee sting/treat mosquito bite
- Ease throat pain
- Extinguish grease fires
- Clean sink drains, coffee pots, etc
- Brighten colors
- Set colors
- Remove stains
- Kill weeds

Every flower must grow through dirt...

I'm a results oriented person. I love working hard and seeing the 'fruit' of my labor. But sometimes, when I've been working on something for longer than anticipated,and I don't see (or feel) the results I become discouraged.

Thought for the day... Just because you can't see/feel it, doesn't mean that it's not there or on it's way. I believe God answers prayers right when we ask it. Sometimes we think the answers are slow in getting to us, but they eventually get to us - and in the right time.

Just like a flower, it starts out as a seed and is cultivated underground (sometimes even dormant for a season). But - there is life, there is a work going on within it - even though it isn't anything we can see. And in it's own perfect time, it blossoms.

So even though you may feel like you're not making any progress, have BIG faith. Learn to see things that don't exist. Stand firm on God's promises and not the circumstances that may be surrounding you.

Psalms 46:10 'Be still and know that I am God..'
Proverbs 3:5-6 'Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.'

Instead of being anxious, fill your thoughts with:

• His timing is always perfect
• He is faithful
• He is truth
• He is provision
• He forgives
• He restores
• He heals
• Jehovah Shammah: The Lord is there! He is already in my tomorrow
• His love NEVER fails

Supermom complex

From the time I found out we were pregnant with our first child I have ALWAYS wanted to be a stay at home mom. But things didn't always work out the way I had hoped. In fact, many times it felt like my journey was going in the complete opposite direction. And throughout this time, I dug my heels into the ground, feeling like I've missed out on what I really wanted.

But what I've come to realize and understand is that I didn't need to be a supermom to be the best wife for my husband and the best mother for our children. I am blessed with the opportunity to work and help provide for our family:

• Proverbs 31:16-17 She considers a field and buys it, out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks

Being a working mom (outside the home), means that you need to be extra aware of what you commit to. The separation axiety (although excruciatingly painful at first), will eventually help your child be independent and confident. The 'mother's guilt' will never go away, but it will fade. Dig deep, but not in resistance - but in harmony with God's word. There's a purpose for you being in the place where you're at. Thrive where you're planted. Soak in all the goodness of the opportunities in your grasp. Learn to see these things as steps towards God's greater plan for your life.

When the anxiousness of not being enough, giving enough, doing enough attacks my mind... I'm gently reminded of my Saviour's pace and slow down to enjoy His unlimited blessings.

Tips for surviving the Supermom Complex
1. Understand your strengths
2. Understand your weaknesses
   - Ask for help (listen girls, the hubs was not created to be intuitive - he needs to know how to help  
     you. And be patient, they're not born knowing how to multi-task and won't do things like you
     would have them done. But you never know, he may have a better solution :) - mine actually did
     laundry MUCH better than I did - and I'm happy to share the responsibility)
3. DON'T Compare
   - This is your journey... own it, love it, and LIVE it
   - Remember that God's blessings will never run out - and that we are all equal in His eyes
4. Evaluate your commitments
  - Make time for quiet time (your time in God's word and in worship will change the course of
    your day... and life)
   - Make your husband your priority (even before the kids) -- you're relationship with him will ensure
    peace and balance in your home
  - Don't over schedule your children
  - Never put work before your family (work diligently, and work smart. leave 'work' and work - and
    when you're with your family, be 100% there)
  - Give (make time for the next generation, make time for the body of Christ) - you can't out give
    God

Enjoy... the Process

Romans 12:12 Be JOYFUL in hope, PATIENT in affliction and FAITHFUL in prayer

One of the things I've been consciously practicing is to enjoy the process. For so many years I followed my heartstrings and became anxious for not being where I thought I should be, not having what I thought I should have, and not being who I thought I should be. I've made a consicous effort to enjoy where I am. To be present in the here and now. To enjoy the little things, and big things, in my life. Like the hundreds of kisses I get from my kids and date nights with my husband.

Instead of trying to push towards that 'ultimately perfect' future, seek to find what life lessons can be learned through the place you are at. Instead of being anxious or frustrated with a difficult situation, look for ways to see how God is helping you grow. Life lessons that you may not have learned otherwise.

Learn to enjoy the process.  Be joyful, be patient and be faithful.

Fellowship of Sisterhood

If there's one thing I've learned in the last 11+ years of being a mom, it's that you shouldn't do this journey of motherhood alone. To enjoy the journey you will need to surround yourself with positve, prayerful and purposeful women. Women who will pray with you, over you and speak into your life. I'm very blessed with a handful of those. But they didn't come quickly or easily. Be very discerning on who you let into your inner circle. And at the same time be generous (gracious, gentle and giving) to those around you, they may need you more than you know. Also give wholeheartedly to the next generation of women (who may not yet be married or have children). I've had the honor and opportunity to meet dozens of college aged girls through the ORU wingbacker program and have made some lifetime friendships with a handful of amzaing ladies. They are going to change the world for God.

Live by example and let your light SHINE
- Be gracious (give, give, give: babysit for a friend, bring dinner to another family, have the girls over and bake like crazy)
- Share knowlege (from inspirational thoughts from your personal devos to recipes, cooking tips, cleaning tips, and child rearing)
- Be generous in uplifting others

I can't tell you how amazing it is when one in my 'fellowship' brings us dinner...just because. Little did she know that I had a really rough day at work. Truely, that is God's love in a 5'5" frame (Carrie :)). This lady has taught me so much about selflessnes, goodness, mercy and love.

We're not alone, we're meant to run this race together as the body of Christ.

Without Reservations

The other day I found myself droning about doing my household chores.... loads of laundry, dishes to wash, floors to be swept, beds to be made... when it hit me how wonderful that I have the opportunity to serve my family. Not in a cheesy, God spoke to me moment. But one of those, 'I'm so thankful that God has brought me to this place' moments. I have loads of laundry, because God has provided and my children are well clothed. I have dishes to wash, because God provided and we always have food on our table. I never lack, because God is faithful to His word. Wow. Who knew that in the midst of my household duties I can feel God work.

Colossians 3: 23-24 'Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving'

Make a habit of living without reservations. Doing things with excellence, even in the little things. So that in everything (even in laundry) you do, you bless others. God is faithful and will graciously give you what you need and more.

Monkey see, Monkey do

'Stop copying me'.... words I hear quite often lately between our two kids. Whether we like it or not, we're always being watched. And whether we like it or not 'someone' is 'copying' us. I love it when my kids mimic me: speaking God's word, praying as soon as they feel discomfort and pain, being thankful, practicing the spirit of hospitality ... but sometimes I'm also reminded of how much I need to improve so that they see Christ in me. Things like: being quick to apologize, being more sensitive to others, watching my tone of voice...

Funny thing is, what we don't like in someone else is probably an area in our own life we need to work on. Tough pill to swallow. Be careful what you do, how you react, what you say.... your legacy depends on it

- Practice humility
- Accept correction
- Be eager to learn and know God's Word
- Walk in forgiveness
- Be a peacemaker
- Always do the right thing
**These are actually the beattitudes from Mark 5:3-10**

What are your areas that need improvement? Write them down. Work on them. This not only benefits you, but those watching you.

Mark 5:3-10  Blessed are...

• ...the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (5:3)
• ...those who mourn: for they will be comforted. (5:4)
• ...the meek: for they will inherit the earth. (5:5)
• ...those who hunger and thirst for righteousness: for they will be filled. (5:6)
• ...the merciful: for they will be shown mercy. (5:7)
• ...the pure in heart: for they will see God. (5:8)
• ...the peacemakers: for they will be called children of God. (5:9)
• ...those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (5:10)

Right to Life

I have been prolife since a was a child. To this day I remember having a dream of women waiting in line at store, giving their babies (who were in a placenta shapped bag) to the cashier, because they didn't want them.... I think I was 9 or 10 years old. Not old enough to know what a placenta was or how babies were even made. But old enough to be sensitive to God's voice, and the cry of the unborn.
Fast forward 32 years later. I am still very much a prolife supporter although I don't actively picket abortion clinics or write my congressmen. I pray. I pray for the unborn. And lately I've been dreaming about it too. My husband thinks it's time to have one more baby :) - and perhaps it is.

All this to say... we have the right to life. And we should live it honorably and with a purpose.

You are unique and have a God given purpose. You have a right to be on this earth. Fight for it.
When you see the broken hearted, lend an ear
When you see the oppressed, give
If you want to grow as a follower or Christ, be actively part of your church family
Surround yourself with people you can be accountable to
Work diligently... and prosper... Proverbs 10:4
Let love and faithfulness never leave you... Proverbs 3:3

Live your life, don't let it just pass by. Too many didn't even have a chance to take one breath. Make your mark on this earth.

Stay Focused

One of the things that can cause the most stress is the inability to start/complete things you set out to do. Things that you feel God has called you to do. My challenge to you today is to be patient and stay focused. Too often we become anxious over big decisions, next steps, new careers, etc.

Some food for thought
Make a list of what you what you need or want to do (write it down)
If you can't sleep peacefully at night over it --- it's not yet time or it's not the right decision to make
 - Remember, God leads us in steps --- not leaps -- so the more you wait on his timing, the steps
   you need to take will become apparent to you (and not leave you questioning if you did the right
   thing or not)
Try to do at least 1 thing on your to do list every day
Don't procrastinate
Be mindful of what you spend your time doing
  - I confess I'm guilty of too much time spent on social media and 'cleaning' and not focusing on
    quality time with my kids
Don't dwell on the past - it can't be changed. Forgive and move forward

God's Word
Colossians 3:2
Set your minds on the things that are above, not on things that are on earth.
Matthew 6:33
But seek FIRST the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to yuo.
Proverbs 4:25
Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you

We are equpped with everything we need
God will provide
God will sustain
God will give wisdom
Stay focused, you're not alone -- you have the very one who raised Jesus from the dead in your corner. He's there to lead, guide and cheer you on. Let that desire that he has placed in your heart take root and be cultivated in His word. Be patient and enjoy the journey.

Peace in the storm

Today I'm reminded that no matter what storm I'm facing... He will always be there to guide and protect.
In Matthew 14:22-33, Jesus meets the diciples in the middle of the lake AND in the MIDST of the storm. I think he did this for a few reasons. To prove to them that he was the son of God and to test their faith. What I like the most about this story is that he came to them in the middle of the storm. And what this tells me is that no matter what I'm going through (spiritally, mentally, physically) - He will be there, reaching out his hand and telling me to come out and walk with him.
My life will never be comfortable, and I don't want it to be. I want to continue seeking and growing. So even when the storm comes, and it will, God will always be there to meet me where I am and carry me through.

Shortcuts

There really isn't such a thing as a shortcut in this journey. BUT there are better ways to do what we were meant to do. Slow and steady. Racing through our journey only causes us to miss all the wonderful 'little' things we would/could experience.

• dates with your spouse
• dates with  your daughter/son
• the opportunity to correct your child while they're young so that they don't experience the heartbreak of disobedience when they're older
• a hobby you love
• being a blessing to others

The list is endless. And having the right attitude/behavior will either shorten or lengthen the time spent in your periods of wilderness or desert. Don't let your journey be like that of the Israelites. It took them 40 years to go through what should have only taken 11 days. 11 days!!! You have this in you. You are called for a higher purpose. Walk in obedience and contentment in ALL things. Pray without ceasing and do not allow yourself to mumble or complain.

Be encouraged, that our Father in Heaven is excited to be on this journey with you. That his best laid plans are right in front of you. That even though our journey sometimes takes us through the wilderness, HE IS ABLE, HE IS PROVISION,  HE IS EVERYTHING YOU NEED.... TRUST AND OBEY.

Psalm 121 'I lift up my eyes to the mountains - where does my help come from?² My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. ³ He will not let your foot slip - he who watches over you will not slumber;⁴ indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.⁵ The Lord watches over you - the Lord is your shade at your right hand; ⁶ the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.⁷ The Lord will keep you from all harm - he will watch over your life;⁸ the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.'

Making time...

'There's never enough time' ... Truth be told, you make time for things most important to you. If we're not careful we allow our days (and nights) to be filled with negative steps. My challenge to you... take a chance on God and choose to purposefully change the way you manage your time.

Take a moment and write down 2 things that you want to complete in the next 6 months, another 2 for the next year, another 2 for the next 2 years, another 2 for the next 5 years, and another 2 within the next 10 years. (Habakkuk 2:2 - Write the vision, and make it plain...)

'Making Time'...

• Put God first - Preparing your spiritual self
• Let his Word be the 1st thing that enters your mind when you wake up (it can be from a devotional, proverb, etc)
• Let your first thoughts of the day be those of thanksgiving and worship
• Preparing your physical self
• Take time to get yourself ready for the day
• Not that outward beauty is so greatly important, but take time to take care of yourself
• Examples: get a workout in, do your hair, put on a decent outfit :)
• Prepare your family
• Proverbs 31:15 She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family
  and portions for her female servants.
• Sometimes easier said than done, but get up early - and set the stage for your family. I like to make sure that my husband's coffee is ready, breakfast is in progress and lunches are packed. When possible, I get dinner in the crockpot (so it can cook all day) or write down what I should make for dinner - so it's not so hard at the end of my day to think about it.
• Work hard, as unto the Lord
• Col 3:23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters
• So whatever you have in front of you for the day, be diligent, work willingly, be productive.
• Allow for downtime
• Give yourself at least 30 minutes of your day to just rest (have a cup of tea, take a walk, read a book)
• Honor the sabbath
• Doesn't always have to be Sunday
• What this means in my family - no working (no conference calls, no yardwork, no meetings with clients), and spending real time with our kids... and resting.

Don't get so caught up with the little things that the 'big' things in your life are never achieved. Allow yourself to practice this lifestyle. Adding more hours to your day doesn't come overnight but taking steps towards better management of your day will lead to a more peaceful journey.

Equipping for the Journey

Before you go on a trip there's always a level of preparation that takes place. If you're like me you have lists, and then probably lists for your list, and then reminders on your icalendar to make sure you didn't forget anything on your list...

I think one of the key elements of success in enjoying your journey is to enjoy all phases of it - from preparation to completion. And in life we'll go through that process hundreds if not thousands of times. Don't be anxious when you're in the preparation phase - understand that the pressure you may be feeling is God's way of testing you and making sure you're ready for bigger and better (remember, He always takes us in steps.... not leaps). And when you get to that next step, it won't always be easy. In fact, if you're in the center of God's will, be sure that you will encounter resistance...'no weapons formed against me will prosper...'

And in these moments.... equip yourself with the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18)
'Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against rulers, against authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor or God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.'

Constantly remind yourself that God has given you all that you need... equip yourself, and your family. Pour over them prayer and God's word. Enjoy the preparation... and enjoy your journey.

Be Anxious For NOTHING....

'Rejoice in the Lord always. Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.'
Philippians 4:4-7

I can't get enough of these verses lately. God's word instructs us to REJOICE!
What that means:Your attitude (mind, body and spirit) should be joyful (delighted) in all things and in every situation

Anxiety = nervousnes, dread, unrealistic fear, worry, restlessness and fatigue

Train your mind!!! Your thoughts become your words (out of the abundance of your heart/mind your mouth will speak), and your thoughts become your actions....  Don't allow anxiety to have a foothold in what you know God has planned for you (a bright and prosperous future). Be diligent about this. This mindset will change not only the course of your life but that of your family.

Open the floodgates of heaven....

It's a double post day for me :)... guess I'm feeling inspired.

Deuteronomy 28:12-13 'The Lord will open the heavens, the storehouse of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands. You will lend to many nations but will borrow from none. The Lord will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom."

This speaks volumes to my soul. My prayer today... Father, I thank you for the rain, your good and perfect will, and your perfect timing. I will rejoice and speak abundance in my storehouse. I will work diligently with what you've given me so that when the rain comes, my work will flourish and I can bless others. I call in my blessings from the north, south, east and west. Your word says in Isaiah 58:11

'The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.'

Thank you God for your unfailing love and your faithfulness... I'm ready for my day :).

Growing Peace

Be careful what you allow to cultivate -- grow peace.
Peace, like a lot of other godly characteristics (faith), starts as a seed. It's planted by your parents and watered by your church and your alone time with God. And like all seeds, it has to be watered and cultivated.
Take the time to cultivate peace in all areas of your life.... your marriage, your children, your family and friends. Reaping the benefits of it will add time to your day, years to your life and and overwhelming sense that God is in control.
Hang in there.
'May the Lord bless and watch, guard and keep you; the Lord make His face to shine upon and enlighten you and be gracious (kind, merciful, and giving favor) to you; the Lor life up His approving countenance upon you and give you PEACE....' Numbers 6:24-26

Power to Overcome

This week I've faced so many opportunities to throw in the towel and be frustrated.
Lesson learned: 

• my morning quiet time is crucial to transforming what seemed to be frustrating situations into opportunities for God's grace to shine
• I have what I need, better yet - God has given me all that I nee

2 Corinthians 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things and at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work

Other verses for the week:
Proverbs 12:24 The hand of the dilgent will rule
Proverbs 10:22 The blessings of the Lord make rich, He adds no sorrow to it
Psalms 37:4 Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart (my favorite verse of all time.... thanks Mom for instilling it in me)
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strenthens me

And finally...
Eph 6:10-17...Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armour of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rules, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

May your journey today be blessed. May you face any and every circumstance with God's power and authority. May you walk in peace...

The Seed of the Righteous Are BLESSED....

The seed of the righteous are blessed...
I saw this posted on a friend's FB page today and couldn't stop thinking about it.

God is so good. He's given me the gift of a faithful and strong husband. And as if it couldn't get better... the gift of motherhood. I know that that one of my main purposes in life is to raise our beautiful children. And to raise them in a Godly and peaceful home. They are going to be world changers, they are going to bless others, they will lead others to Christ.

Prayer for Favor
Father, thank you that my child is blessed of God and surrounded with favor as a shield. I pray that throughout the day people in their lives will be predispensed to want to bless, assist, and encourage them. I believe that they will enjoy unusual cooperation and overwhelming goodwill in all their activities. As they walk in favor with You. I thank You for complimenting them with favor and protection from people. In Jesus name, Amen.
(Psalm 5:12, Luke 2:52, Acts 2:47)

Deuteronomy 28:4
The fruit of your womb will be blessed and the crops of your land and the young of your livestock, the calves of your herds and the labms of your flocks.

When anxiety knocks at your door....

Fact of life... not everything will go your way OR as you had planned. There are lots of things that can cause anxiousness... but before you let those things even begin to take hold of your thoughtlife ---
GOD's words
Let peace take hold of your heart & mind
      Psalms 46:10 'Be still and know that I am God..'
Trust - know that God has the best laid plans for your life.
      Proverbs 3:5-6 'Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own
      understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths
      straight.'

Instead of being anxious, fill your thoughts with:

• His timing is always perfect
• He is faithful
• He is truth
• He is provision
• He forgives
• He restores
• He heals
• Jehovah Shammah: The Lord is there! He is already in my tomorrow
• His love NEVER fails

Let the weight of anxious thoughts fall off and let God carry you through.

Because I said so....

I never thought I would hear myself say this phrase ("because I said so...") to my children.... until now. They're at the age where they want to question my decision or direction for them, all a part of growing up. My goal with this stage is to help them make good decisions for themselves. The good news is that they don't question my authority, only the manner in which I require them to complete a task. Gently assuring them that if they just listen to their mama and follow my direction, their tasks would be easier and less frustrating.
How much more is God like that with us. I don't question God's authority in my life. But sometimes, if I don't watch it, I let doubt creep in on how God brings about his plan into my life. And I can just hear Him say it now...'Because I said so'. It's 'Trust me', 'Believe in Me', 'Know that I have the best laid plans' for your life statements all summed up in those 4 little words, because I said so.
So instead of questioning, I choose to trust.
Peace - Isaiah 54:10 'Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,"
Provision - Philippians 4:19 'And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus'
Protection - Isaiah 54:17 'No weapon formed against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you'
I choose to speak God's word and his promises into my life... Because HE said so.

Patient Endurance

Hebrews 12:1 ' ... and let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistance the appointed course of the race that is set before us.' -- I LOVE this. Not only because I love to run and the analogy fits me well but I love that God directs us to stay the course with patience. Which to me means that there are going to be things that will distract, encumber, and discourage. But HE who is faithful will deliver me from that if I allow it. So amazed at God's love and and encouragement.
I choose today to be steady, not easily turned, not wavered but set on the course God has prepared for me. And I pursue his calling on my life. I pray for wisdom and blessings to rain on me and my family. I cast out fear, worry, doubt, sickness, strife and bitterness. I will dwell in His perfect love.

Recharging

Recharging... this is probably one of my most unused tools in my mama toolbelt. There's a reason why God made the earth and everything in it in 6 days and RESTED on the 7th. Unfortunately it's a biblical principle that looks better on paper than in practice in my life. But not anymore. I struggle as a working mom to want to be that 'super'mom. Which means to me that I have to be a good wife, an everpresent and engaged mother, respectful daughter/grandaughter, thoughtful friend, and exemplary employee. But at the end of the day, I'm completely drained with nothing left.
God first... and always God first. First in my thoughts in the morning, first person I go to when I feel discouraged or fear, first, first, first.
   - Read and Memorize His word (it's what my soul longs for and what I need at all times)
   - Listen to worship (how wonderful will it be someday to be in worship ALL the time in heaven... i can only   
     imagine)
Husband is next
   - Be there to greet him when he gets home
   - Meet his needs
   - Love him unconditionally
   - Make time for him
   - Go to bed at the same time
Children come after
   - Give them God's word everyday
   - Love them unconditionally
   - Practice discipline in love
   - Play and laugh with them every day
Me time
   - Run/Exercise
   - Do something crafty!
Here's my list.. it's a start. Looking forward to see how God uses me in his amazing plan!

Living in the empowered moment

You have a choice, every day, to make a difference. To speak/answer softly, to make a good choice, to be diligent, to overcome. It's a choice. No one can make it for you. No one can cause you to succeed. God provides the roadmap, all you need to do is take the step. I know, easier said than done. And I live in that thought every day.
When I woke up this morning I really didn't feel like getting up, getting everything ready for my family, or going to work. I just wanted to snooze (for a couple more hours). BUT there's something about reading my daily verse and spending time with God that changes how I want (and chose) to go about my day. I am empowered. I choose to empower my life with God's promises. I choose life.
I know there are dozens of verses in the Bible that tell us that diligent hands will prosper, that they will rule, that we will never lack. So the next time you don't feel like getting up, or when you feel the weight of your 'routine' life... go to God's word and be diligent about it. Ask Him to show you how he sees you. Read Proverbs 31 and know that all of that 'goodness' and grace are already instilled in you. Walk in the moment, the empowered moment and make it count.

You have what you say... Wisdom and Blessing

'What you continually say with your mouth will be imprinted in your heart.' - Something my pastor shared this past weekend. I choose today to speak life, blessings and healing. I choose today to plant good seed. May the meditation of my heart be pleasing to the Lord.
What God says... 

Proverbs 16:3 "Commit to the Lord what ever you do, and your plans will succeed."

Isaiah 58:11 "The Lord will guide you always, he will satisfy your needs in a sun scorced land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail."

Proverbs 12:14 "From the fruit of his lips a man is filled with good things, as surely as the work of his hands rewards him"

I have without a shadow of a doubt that God is working on my behalf. Thankful for the things that I don't see but know that they are ever present and coming. Thankful that God has every good and perfect thing for me and my family.

Blessings for my kiddos

May the Lord make you spiritually strong and economically creative....
One of the lessons learned from our church is to pray blessings over our children, and to do this daily. Do it from their infancy, and if you haven't - it's never too late to start. Our children need to not only see God exemplified through us, they also need to hear it from our mouths.
I pray that the Lord pour wisdom on my husband and I to train our children to be strong, independent, respectful and honorable. That they learn not to depend on others for their success but to God for wisdom in pursuing their gifts and talents and have exceedingly and abundantly above all they can even imagine. To learn and meditate on God's word so that they know without a shadow of a doubt who they are in Him. To be faithful in the small things and to not shy away from hard work. To live a blessed life...

Gentle Answers

'A gentle answer turns away anger' Proverbs 15:1
I thought a lot about this verse last night after a very stressful day. Managing oneself, one's marriage, family and career is no small feat. And the way we choose to respond to every circumstance makes a difference. As I pondered this verse I began to think that maybe this verse wasn't written just to teach us how to respond to others but also to help in my own restoration process. When I choose to respond in kindness, my temperment is more calm, my thoughts are more clear, and I'm in a better place.
I want to make a difference, better yet - I want to be the difference. I want my husband to know that I honor and respect him, for my children to know that they are loved unconditionally. To discipline them in love so that they can grow in grace. Another small step.