I love this time of year. I enjoy some cold weather. I enjoy trying to think up great gifts for friends and family - especially Terry! He's hard to buy for and to surprise! Last year, I shocked him by getting him a bi-pod for his gun. And he thought I didn't know about guns! (Well, I don't, but I'm observant! I saw him eyeing one at the store once!) I love the food, the decorations, the food, the music, the lights, the food...well, you get the idea. I love it all!!!!
The down side is, that when it's time to take down the decorations and lights, turn off the music and start losing the weight from all the food, that I can get very melancholy. I feel like it was all over so fast! I was so excited about it, and then it's over, that fast! I've been looking back at all the photos of past Christmases and I can't believe how much my kids have changed! It's already been almost a year since Laci was born! I guess I'm just "female"! I go from up to down so quickly. And when I get down, it's hard for me to get back up again!
Because I'm aware of my "holiday letdown pattern", the get excited-have the event-get blue pattern, I've developed a "holiday letdown response system." Or, H.L.R.S. for short. My system is simple: have something fun planned to do after the big day! I am blessed to have an anniversary on January 2nd. My Hubby and I try to go out to eat that day, or do something together. But, that sort of blends in with the other holidays, so I try to plan something else after that. Maybe I plan to go to the mall to spend some Christmas money (I hate to admit this, but I don't buy clothes! I usually buy books!), or a trip to the library, or I may plan to call a friend and visit. I plan something. Something that I can immediately shift my focus to after the holidays.
I am also prone to look back at the past all year long. I look back at old photos and think about when the kids were smaller. I think about the friends and family that I never see, I think about my Dad and I feel like I didn't get to have him long enough - though I know others who've lost parents younger than I did, I still wish I'd had him longer. I remember the great Christmases Mom and Dad gave me, and on and on I go until I'm in tears! It's not pretty! But, I've developed a system for those times too! When I feel that way, I remember Phil. 3:13-14 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Now, I know Paul was probably saying that we should forget the mistakes of the past and move forward, and that's so true. But I also have to forget the good times. I can't dwell on the happy memories of yesteryear, because I begin to feel like I'll never be happy again, life stinks, poor me, and so forth. After all, if I stay in that mood, I certainly am not getting anything done for Christ, I'm giving the Devil the victory! No, I have to forget those good times (temporarily) and move forward, making new happy memories, today. Yesterday is over. I'm so glad I got to live it, and there are times I can look back and not feel so blue, but I need to focus on today. What can I do today for my kids? How can I invest my life today so that it impacts eternity? How can I help you today? This is the stuff the Christian life is made of: giving ourselves to Him, so that someday, we can stand in Heaven with no sorrow, no regret, and no "holiday blues" - but with satisfaction of a life lived wholly for Him.
Do you have a Holiday Letdown Response System? I sure couldn't make it without mine!
Friday, November 30, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Worldly Thinking
Here is the devotional that I shared with our ladies at our November fellowship. My Mom wanted to me to share this, so here it is. I hope it is a blessing, and I hope you have a spare hour to read this! :0)
The Lord began showing me some of my own "worldly thinking" shortly after my Dad went to Heaven. At that time I began to think that I should go out and get a degree in case Terry died suddenly. I would need to find a good job support myself and four kiddos! (After all, I certainly couldn’t continue in the family business, could I?) What would I do? Well, my mother, who holds several degrees, pointed out that I was using worldly thinking. She reminded me that God could provide for me, and if I needed a degree, it would be in His timing, not mine. As I nurse a baby, home school two kids and rear a lively toddler, when could I find time to work on a degree? I’m struggling just to write this now! No, I need to just wait and trust Him. There’s nothing wrong with planning for an emergency, it is wrong when we do not seek His face before plunging ahead with our own ideas. He may have another way- a better way, and perhaps, an easier way. But we must trust Him, and go to Him. We cannot possibly plan for every possible circumstance that may come up! We must trust Him, and rely upon Him.
Why do we need to shy away from worldly thinking? James 4:4b says "whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God." I surely do not want to be God’s enemy! I’m also aware that sin begins in the mind. If I keep my thoughts pure, then my life will be pure. It’s definitely a battle for the mind!
Oh, I also want to add that this is not an exhaustive study. This is just the tip of the iceberg. My hope and prayer is that this will be a springboard to an even deeper and more personal study for you. May God help all of us to clean out the cobwebs of worldly thinking that have settled in our minds, and replace them with the glorious sunlight of God's Word!
I.What does the Bible say about the world?
A. Who rules the world? Satan!
Eph. 2:2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:
2 Cor. 4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
Rev. 12:9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.
B. As Christians, how should we feel about the world?
The Bible says we’re different, and others should be able to see that clearly. Not just by how we dress, that’s way overemphasized - but by our attitudes and actions. After all, if our hearts are right with God, then will submit to His authority on everything, including our clothing. Get your heart right, and the rest will fall in place, and it won't be hard at all because you'll be sincerely desiring to please Him!
2 Cor.6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,
1 Cor. 6:19-20 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
James 4:4b whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
C. How do we act toward people of the world?
We love them! See John 3:16, and 1 John 4:8 & 16
D. How should we live in this world?
Live right, do what’s right. Go to church, read the Bible, pray, be honest, witness, be real, and on and on.
Tit. 2: 11-12 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;
E. We love the people, but not the "way" of the world.
1 John 2:15-16 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
F. We should love Him, and the things that pertain to Him!
Col.3:2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
We can overcome this world.
1 John 4:4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.
For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
1 John 5:4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
Your faith is what overcomes this world. You have the power already in your hands, or heart. But which one are you "feeding"? Your faith, or your flesh?
G.Where does it all begin? In the mind!
Do you feed your mind filthy TV, wrong music, bad books? Then you will not be an overcomer! You're feeding your flesh and not your spirit. I don't even watch the news because all the media does is tell you all that's wrong in the world. I want to dwell on what's right - and only one thing fits the bill - Jesus! Let's dwell on Him, and His Word!
Do you use worldly thinking? I think we all do without even realizing it - I know I do, anyway! Remember, we’re in the world but not of the world. We should think according to the Bible. With that said let's try these on for size:
II.The following are some comparisons of worldly thinking to Bible thinking.
The World says: "She (or he) deserves that!"
The Bible Says: We should be forgiving and longsuffering with others.
Eph.4:32And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Matt.5:7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
Matt.18:21-22 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.
Prov. 24:17-18 Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth: Lest the LORD see it, and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him.
The World says: "I have to take care of myself, because no one else will."
Are you a child of God? If so, then that’s not true! God takes care of His children.
The Bible Says:
Matt.6:25-26Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?
Ps. 55:22 Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.
Ps. 37: 25 I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.*Note: What about the beggar Lazarus in the NT? He was saved, yet he was a beggar! I believe the key to this verse is that David said he hadn’t seen the "righteous" or those living right forsaken. Perhaps Lazarus wasn’t living right! Maybe that’s why we see some saved folk suffering financially. Maybe they aren’t tithing, or living right according to God’s Word. Just a thought!
I Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
The World says: "No one can make me do anything."
The Bible Says:
I Cor. 6:19-20 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
I Sam. 15:23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry....
Gal. 5:13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.
Matt. 12:50 For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.
The World says: "I'll serve God, but my family comes first!"
The Bible Says: We should put God ahead of all other people in our lives.
Gen.12:1 Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will show thee:
Matt. 19:29 And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.
The World Says: "Okay, I'll help with (fill in the blank). But I'm doing it my way!"
The Bible Says: We are to submit (which means to abase or humble) ourselves to others, not take over.
James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Eph. 5:22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
I Pet.2:13 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;
Here's the one that gets me!
Eph. 5:21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
The World says: "No one notices what I do, so why should I bother?"
The Bible Says: We aren't to do things to get man's attention, but we are to serve God out of a heart full of love for Him.
Matt. 6:19-20 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
Eph.6:6 Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;
Heb. 6:10 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have showed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.
Ps.100:2a Serve the LORD with gladness:...
The Lord began showing me some of my own "worldly thinking" shortly after my Dad went to Heaven. At that time I began to think that I should go out and get a degree in case Terry died suddenly. I would need to find a good job support myself and four kiddos! (After all, I certainly couldn’t continue in the family business, could I?) What would I do? Well, my mother, who holds several degrees, pointed out that I was using worldly thinking. She reminded me that God could provide for me, and if I needed a degree, it would be in His timing, not mine. As I nurse a baby, home school two kids and rear a lively toddler, when could I find time to work on a degree? I’m struggling just to write this now! No, I need to just wait and trust Him. There’s nothing wrong with planning for an emergency, it is wrong when we do not seek His face before plunging ahead with our own ideas. He may have another way- a better way, and perhaps, an easier way. But we must trust Him, and go to Him. We cannot possibly plan for every possible circumstance that may come up! We must trust Him, and rely upon Him.
Why do we need to shy away from worldly thinking? James 4:4b says "whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God." I surely do not want to be God’s enemy! I’m also aware that sin begins in the mind. If I keep my thoughts pure, then my life will be pure. It’s definitely a battle for the mind!
Oh, I also want to add that this is not an exhaustive study. This is just the tip of the iceberg. My hope and prayer is that this will be a springboard to an even deeper and more personal study for you. May God help all of us to clean out the cobwebs of worldly thinking that have settled in our minds, and replace them with the glorious sunlight of God's Word!
I.What does the Bible say about the world?
A. Who rules the world? Satan!
Eph. 2:2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:
2 Cor. 4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
Rev. 12:9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.
B. As Christians, how should we feel about the world?
The Bible says we’re different, and others should be able to see that clearly. Not just by how we dress, that’s way overemphasized - but by our attitudes and actions. After all, if our hearts are right with God, then will submit to His authority on everything, including our clothing. Get your heart right, and the rest will fall in place, and it won't be hard at all because you'll be sincerely desiring to please Him!
2 Cor.6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,
1 Cor. 6:19-20 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
James 4:4b whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
C. How do we act toward people of the world?
We love them! See John 3:16, and 1 John 4:8 & 16
D. How should we live in this world?
Live right, do what’s right. Go to church, read the Bible, pray, be honest, witness, be real, and on and on.
Tit. 2: 11-12 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;
E. We love the people, but not the "way" of the world.
1 John 2:15-16 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
F. We should love Him, and the things that pertain to Him!
Col.3:2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
We can overcome this world.
1 John 4:4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.
For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
1 John 5:4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
Your faith is what overcomes this world. You have the power already in your hands, or heart. But which one are you "feeding"? Your faith, or your flesh?
G.Where does it all begin? In the mind!
Do you feed your mind filthy TV, wrong music, bad books? Then you will not be an overcomer! You're feeding your flesh and not your spirit. I don't even watch the news because all the media does is tell you all that's wrong in the world. I want to dwell on what's right - and only one thing fits the bill - Jesus! Let's dwell on Him, and His Word!
Do you use worldly thinking? I think we all do without even realizing it - I know I do, anyway! Remember, we’re in the world but not of the world. We should think according to the Bible. With that said let's try these on for size:
II.The following are some comparisons of worldly thinking to Bible thinking.
The World says: "She (or he) deserves that!"
The Bible Says: We should be forgiving and longsuffering with others.
Eph.4:32And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Matt.5:7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
Matt.18:21-22 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.
Prov. 24:17-18 Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth: Lest the LORD see it, and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him.
The World says: "I have to take care of myself, because no one else will."
Are you a child of God? If so, then that’s not true! God takes care of His children.
The Bible Says:
Matt.6:25-26Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?
Ps. 55:22 Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.
Ps. 37: 25 I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.*Note: What about the beggar Lazarus in the NT? He was saved, yet he was a beggar! I believe the key to this verse is that David said he hadn’t seen the "righteous" or those living right forsaken. Perhaps Lazarus wasn’t living right! Maybe that’s why we see some saved folk suffering financially. Maybe they aren’t tithing, or living right according to God’s Word. Just a thought!
I Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
The World says: "No one can make me do anything."
The Bible Says:
I Cor. 6:19-20 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
I Sam. 15:23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry....
Gal. 5:13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.
Matt. 12:50 For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.
The World says: "I'll serve God, but my family comes first!"
The Bible Says: We should put God ahead of all other people in our lives.
Gen.12:1 Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will show thee:
Matt. 19:29 And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.
The World Says: "Okay, I'll help with (fill in the blank). But I'm doing it my way!"
The Bible Says: We are to submit (which means to abase or humble) ourselves to others, not take over.
James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Eph. 5:22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
I Pet.2:13 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;
Here's the one that gets me!
Eph. 5:21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
The World says: "No one notices what I do, so why should I bother?"
The Bible Says: We aren't to do things to get man's attention, but we are to serve God out of a heart full of love for Him.
Matt. 6:19-20 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
Eph.6:6 Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;
Heb. 6:10 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have showed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.
Ps.100:2a Serve the LORD with gladness:...
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
I've Earned $2.21 in Two Years
I was recently cleaning out some of the obscure areas in our home. Areas like our hall closet, our bedroom closet, the pantry and the laundry room. I was cleaning the shelves above my washer and dryer when I saw a wide assortment of little things on the shelf. There were three cherries and a bucket from the Hi-Ho Cherrio game (what was I thinking in buying that game anyway? I bet we've lost all but four cherries by now!). There were three shoelaces...but don't ask me which shoes belonged with them! I also found six safety pins and (drum roll please) all of the loose change that has been found in the washing machine! A grand total of, yep, you guessed it - $2.21! That is approximately $.09 a month for 24 months! Oh! Along with the U.S. money there was also one Brazilian coin that one of the kids had gotten from a missionary, but I didn't figure that in my total! :o) All in all, I'd say that I'm overworked and underpaid, as are all stay-at-home-moms! I think I'll be discussing a possible wage increase with my boss today when he gets home. ;0)
Really, I thought this was interesting. After two years of cooking, cleaning, serving, washing, refereeing, teaching, disciplining, decorating, shopping, "doctoring", loving - I only have $2.21 to show for it...in one sense. If I were seriously looking at the financial benefits to being a stay-at-home-mom, and a home schooling mom, then I wouldn't be doing it! The world has way more to offer me in tangible benefits than this line of work! But I realize that I am getting so much more than the world could ever offer me. No, there's no paid vacation, or sick days, or even a small salary package. But I get the unconditional love and admiration of four sweet children! I got to hear my daughter, and now my son, begin to read!! I get to see their faces light up when some difficult subject finally "clicks." I was there for their first smiles, their first steps, and I was there when they were hurt or sad. I'm there each morning to greet them with a hot breakfast, and I'm there in the afternoon to see them play at the park. I'm there every night to read to them, kiss them and tuck them in their beds. I'm there to spot character flaws and point them out, before they become habits! I'm not out conquering the business world. I don't hold a degree of any kind, unless "Mrs." counts! I know several women who are mothers, in that, they did bring forth children into the world, they have the title "mother". But, some moms, sadly, leave their children with the nanny or babysitter -indefinitely- so they can go fulfil their own "dreams". I'm not trying to bash working Moms, because you can work a job and be an excellent mother, no doubt about it. What I'm talking about is mothers who seem to be able to forget that they even have kids because they get so wrapped up in their own separate lives. It's so sad. I believe "mother" is a noun and a verb! It's work, and love, and more work! I feel that I hold an even higher position than any female CEO in the country - I'm a Mom! Not just in title, but in deed.
Really, I thought this was interesting. After two years of cooking, cleaning, serving, washing, refereeing, teaching, disciplining, decorating, shopping, "doctoring", loving - I only have $2.21 to show for it...in one sense. If I were seriously looking at the financial benefits to being a stay-at-home-mom, and a home schooling mom, then I wouldn't be doing it! The world has way more to offer me in tangible benefits than this line of work! But I realize that I am getting so much more than the world could ever offer me. No, there's no paid vacation, or sick days, or even a small salary package. But I get the unconditional love and admiration of four sweet children! I got to hear my daughter, and now my son, begin to read!! I get to see their faces light up when some difficult subject finally "clicks." I was there for their first smiles, their first steps, and I was there when they were hurt or sad. I'm there each morning to greet them with a hot breakfast, and I'm there in the afternoon to see them play at the park. I'm there every night to read to them, kiss them and tuck them in their beds. I'm there to spot character flaws and point them out, before they become habits! I'm not out conquering the business world. I don't hold a degree of any kind, unless "Mrs." counts! I know several women who are mothers, in that, they did bring forth children into the world, they have the title "mother". But, some moms, sadly, leave their children with the nanny or babysitter -indefinitely- so they can go fulfil their own "dreams". I'm not trying to bash working Moms, because you can work a job and be an excellent mother, no doubt about it. What I'm talking about is mothers who seem to be able to forget that they even have kids because they get so wrapped up in their own separate lives. It's so sad. I believe "mother" is a noun and a verb! It's work, and love, and more work! I feel that I hold an even higher position than any female CEO in the country - I'm a Mom! Not just in title, but in deed.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
There's No Place Like Home....
First of all, thank you so much for praying for our heat to be fixed. It was repaired yesterday at about 10:30 and the minute that heat started blowing we rejoiced! Thank you to Bro. Scotty Bristow for coming over and repairing it for us. Also, my thumb is so much better! I can't believe it is already doing so much better. I appreciate your prayers so much.
I had such a good time during my last trip to Arkansas for the Thanksgiving holiday.Here's Janet Drive, the street on the side of our house. It was so lovely to see the falling leaves!! It's something we don't see down here in autumn. We have the Live Oak trees here and, oddly enough, they lose their leaves in the spring! I couldn't resist snapping the photo below. It's kind of relaxing, don't ya think?
Here is my nephew, Andrew. He is holding, well, trying to hold Laci! Melanie's boys loved her so much!
Here is David Allen, Melanie's oldest boy with Laci.
The three Musketeers! L-R: David Allen, Mitchell and Andrew
Here I am with the three little ones. L-R: Leslie, Laci and Stephen
My Mom bought new pajamas for the grandkids. These five here spent the night at Mom's house on pallets on the floor(For you Andy lovers out there, they called it "adventure sleeping"). Terry and I and the little girls stayed at a motel. Lauren was the only girl, so she didn't get Spiderman PJ's! She loved her penguin pajamas though! They all had a blast!
Here's the whole gang: L-R: David Allen, Andrew, Stephen, Lauren, Mitchell and Leslie (who's trying unsuccessfully to hide. She's the shy one.)
A proud Aunt! Here I am with the cutest clan in the world! Okay, I'm a little prejudiced! :o)
Leslie was a busy girl during our trip. She was always trying to fold blankets, or help Mom fold towels. She also enjoyed coloring! Her baby doll Lucy is beside her. Lucy has seen better days, as you can see!
Stephen, Melanie's youngest boy, just adored Laci! He kept asking her if they could have Laci for Christmas! He would come up to me and say "Valry, I love your baby!" and then give her and me some kisses! He's a sweetie! He was such a good "babysitter". He kept Laci happy so I could visit with my Mom and Melanie.
The kids had so much fun together. Uncle Walter took all the older ones to the park three times, and the weather was nice enough for them to play outside.
Here's one of my three sweet nephews! I sure miss him, and the whole family.
David Allen and Mitchell had matching Spiderman pajamas, which, by the way, came in very handy those two nights the heat was off!
Lauren and Stephen enjoying the building blocks.
Valerie and Terry ~ still in love after all these years!
I had such a good time during my last trip to Arkansas for the Thanksgiving holiday.Here's Janet Drive, the street on the side of our house. It was so lovely to see the falling leaves!! It's something we don't see down here in autumn. We have the Live Oak trees here and, oddly enough, they lose their leaves in the spring! I couldn't resist snapping the photo below. It's kind of relaxing, don't ya think?
Here is my nephew, Andrew. He is holding, well, trying to hold Laci! Melanie's boys loved her so much!
Here is David Allen, Melanie's oldest boy with Laci.
The three Musketeers! L-R: David Allen, Mitchell and Andrew
Here I am with the three little ones. L-R: Leslie, Laci and Stephen
My Mom bought new pajamas for the grandkids. These five here spent the night at Mom's house on pallets on the floor(For you Andy lovers out there, they called it "adventure sleeping"). Terry and I and the little girls stayed at a motel. Lauren was the only girl, so she didn't get Spiderman PJ's! She loved her penguin pajamas though! They all had a blast!
Here's the whole gang: L-R: David Allen, Andrew, Stephen, Lauren, Mitchell and Leslie (who's trying unsuccessfully to hide. She's the shy one.)
A proud Aunt! Here I am with the cutest clan in the world! Okay, I'm a little prejudiced! :o)
Leslie was a busy girl during our trip. She was always trying to fold blankets, or help Mom fold towels. She also enjoyed coloring! Her baby doll Lucy is beside her. Lucy has seen better days, as you can see!
Stephen, Melanie's youngest boy, just adored Laci! He kept asking her if they could have Laci for Christmas! He would come up to me and say "Valry, I love your baby!" and then give her and me some kisses! He's a sweetie! He was such a good "babysitter". He kept Laci happy so I could visit with my Mom and Melanie.
The kids had so much fun together. Uncle Walter took all the older ones to the park three times, and the weather was nice enough for them to play outside.
Here's one of my three sweet nephews! I sure miss him, and the whole family.
David Allen and Mitchell had matching Spiderman pajamas, which, by the way, came in very handy those two nights the heat was off!Lauren and Stephen enjoying the building blocks.
Valerie and Terry ~ still in love after all these years!We had such a great holiday. Thank you, Mom, for treating us to such a great time. I made memories that, Lord willing, will last my lifetime.
We don't have lots of money, or a fancy car. We don't have designer clothes or a bass boat, but we are so rich. We have a loving family and a home that is truly a haven from the stress and turmoil of this world. We have a great home because we have Jesus! The song says: "With Christ in my vessel I can smile at the storm" and for a child of God that is so true! No matter what is happening in my town or around the world, I can smile at the storm because I have the giver of peace with me each and every moment. Even during the times of no heat, and painful burns, I have so much to be thankful for!
Monday, November 26, 2007
My Life in the Hill Country
Here are some photos from recent days. I did get lots of good photos on my trip home!!! I'll be sharing those tomorrow. I hope you enjoy this glimpse into my life in the hills of Texas...
Terry increased his workout. He's made it triple effective!
Leslie has learned that good eye protection can make all the difference!
Our last ladies fellowship was held November 17. We had a Thanksgiving theme. Here are some highlights. I shared a devotional thought that I've been mulling over for a while on "Worldly Thinking." The Lord really used it to work on me.
We had a great turnout! 
I made a cake that was supposed to look like a cornucopia, or horn of plenty. I had fun doing it, but I don't know if it turned out exactly right!
Terry increased his workout. He's made it triple effective!
Leslie has learned that good eye protection can make all the difference!Our last ladies fellowship was held November 17. We had a Thanksgiving theme. Here are some highlights. I shared a devotional thought that I've been mulling over for a while on "Worldly Thinking." The Lord really used it to work on me.
We had a great turnout! We had a few autumn-type snacks. I made my Aunt Dorothy's famous Cranberry punch, and it was a hit! (Thank you, Dot!)
I made a cake that was supposed to look like a cornucopia, or horn of plenty. I had fun doing it, but I don't know if it turned out exactly right! I have had computer problems this morning, so I won't have time to post the photos of my trip home today. We are also without heat here in the parsonage and it's 36 degrees! We hope to have it fixed today. In the meantime, we are using two small space heaters and we've all been sleeping in the same room, with one of the space heaters. This morning, when I went to plug in the other heater, it sparked and sizzled and burned my left thumb pretty badly. It burned the cord into two pieces and left me crying. I'm just so glad it wasn't one of the kids who got burned! If you think of me, please pray for our heat, and my thumb! :o)
So now you're up to date on my life in the hill country! I know Mondays typically stink, and I'll admit that mine has started out lousy, but with God's help I hope to make it a profitable day. Not just for now, but also for eternity. I hope you can do the same! Have a great Monday, and thanks for stopping by!
Saturday, November 17, 2007
My Heart Is Full, and Overflowing
This will be my last post until November 26th. I will be leaving to go home on Monday to spend the Thanksgiving holiday with my Mom and my sister and her family. I am really excited about it.Thanksgiving often gets overlooked. We are all in such a rush to get to Christmas that we forget about the sacrifices the Pilgrims made so long ago that have made our lives possible. God's grace alone saw them safely over to the New World from Holland aboard the Mayflower. It was no wonder they knelt immediately at Plymouth Rock to give Him thanks. When they arrived, and nearly froze to death or died of starvation, it was God alone who kept them alive. It was God who allowed them to meet the Indians that helped them that first year. What if they had isolated themselves from the Indians because they were "different"? They would've starved to death for sure. They showed thankfulness to the Indians by inviting them for a big feast - sharing in the bounty that God so graciously provided.
We live today in a world that's very different from the Pilgrims' day. Kids don't know how to say "thank you." Most people don't send written thank you notes for gifts anymore. What has happened? Have we no time to be thankful for that which God has given us? I hope I don't become captive to the attitude of "un-thankfulness." I want to always remember to thank God, and others, for the kindness they show me. As I consider all He's given me, my heart is full and overflowing. I'd like to share some of the blessings for which I am thankful:
My Parents, Ron and Carolyn Courtney, for looking to the cross when trials came into our lives and making Christ so real to me. For staying faithful to a church that was falling apart, all the while trusting God to send His man, which He did! For not quitting no matter what happened. My Mother used to quote from Job,"Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him."
My Salvation - God graciously convicted me of my sin on June 12, 1993, and I accepted His gift.
My Husband - A man who loves the Lord, and me. His humility has enabled him to have a walk with the Lord that few can have. He is a loving and encouraging companion as I walk life's road.
My Children - Why would God allow someone like me to be a mother? And not once, but four times? He is so merciful and loving to me.
My Church - We waited for seven years on God's perfect will for a church to pastor, and on Sept. 11, 2005, God answered! He had a people and a place that He was preparing just for us. What if we hadn't waited on Him?
My Friends- I don't have a vast number of friends, but I have some faithful friends. Friends who have known me for years, and like me anyway. You are a gift - thank you.
My relationship with the Lord - He has provided for me when no one else could. He has listened to me when no one else would. He's given me strength to stand against wrong and He's been by my side when I stood all alone. He has kept every promise. He's never let me down. I've not always understood His ways, but I've always known He was with me through every trial. He speaks to me, He isn't just a God who lives way out in the galaxy - He's my very best friend.
Those I've led to the Lord - I've led many people to Christ, and that is a blessing. We are only commanded to go, not win them, so to see some saved is a bonus.
Yes, as the song says: "I've got so much to thank Him for."
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Finally!
Here are the photos I mentioned a while back. I've been meaning to post these for some time now! These first ones are of me and my hubby painting our entry way at our house. The church painted all the walls white for us before we came, so they would be fresh and clean. I have gone through and painted some myself, choosing something other than white. I thought it would be welcoming if my entry way were a warm color so I chose a kind of mocha color. Oh, and we did this back at the first part of October.
Laci wanted to get in on the action!
Thanks, Honey, for your help! :-)
Here I am doing my part on the entry way. I didn't have any old shoes to paint in, so I went barefoot! And yes, I did step in wet paint!
Lauren got to do the honors! She was only too happy to oblige!
She got him so hard that she bent the pie tin! Luckily, it didn't break his nose!
He's officially been "creamed."
The kids are enjoying breakfast! Say cheese, er, uh I mean oatmeal!
Laci wanted to get in on the action!
Thanks, Honey, for your help! :-)
Here I am doing my part on the entry way. I didn't have any old shoes to paint in, so I went barefoot! And yes, I did step in wet paint!
During the month of September, Terry led our church in a Sunday School campaign/contest against his brother's church in Trenton, MO. The loser had to get a pie in the face, and well, we lost. We did get some great photos from it though! :o)
Lauren got to do the honors! She was only too happy to oblige!
She got him so hard that she bent the pie tin! Luckily, it didn't break his nose!He's officially been "creamed."The kids are enjoying breakfast! Say cheese, er, uh I mean oatmeal! 
Leslie enjoys a smile and some cereal early in the morning.
This is kind of dark (sorry) but it's Laci on the treadmill! She's trying to walk, but I don't think she's ready for a treadmill yet!
Lord willing, we'll be getting to go home for Thanksgiving! I know! I was just home less than a month ago! What a blessing! My sister, Melanie, from North Carolina will be there this time with her hubby and three boys! I am really looking forward to it. I haven't seen them since last Christmas! I will try and get a whole new batch of photos for you. But, don't hold your breath...you know what happened last time I went home!
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Who's Winning?
I Peter 1: 15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
I Peter 2: 21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
I'm trying to do better. I don't watch much TV, and I only listen to music that was produced 10 years ago, or was done by a "non-professional", but I still struggle. Do you ever play a song on the radio or stop "surfing" to watch a show that you've heard about, only to feel a terrible struggle 'neath your chest? I have! That struggle, if you're born again, is the Holy Spirit and your flesh battling it out. Who will win? Well, the stronger of the two, naturally. You may be thinking, "Well, that's the Holy Spirit- He's God, He's stronger than anything." Well, think again! You see, the Holy Spirit is very sensitive. You can quench Him easily. If you feed your flesh more than your Spirit, then your flesh will win. You do this by ignoring the Holy Spirit's tugging at your mind. When He tells you "You know this is wrong, don't do it." and you refuse to listen, then each time after that, the voice will not be as hard to ignore. If you rarely read your Bible, attend church, tithe, or do for others, oh, and here's a biggie -pray, then you will have an anemic spiritual life. Your flesh will be stronger, and your flesh will win those "battles", if you even have a "battle" going on. Maybe you never feel the Holy Spirit tugging at your mind. If you don't then you need to have a check up. Ask yourself: Am I saved? If you are for sure, then ask yourself :When was the last time I had a spiritual "meal" of Bible, and prayer. Not a "ritual" but an actual time where you talked with God and listened to His Word? There's an old illustration of the flesh and the Spirit that goes like this: A man had a white dog and a black dog that he was going to let fight each other. He fed the black dog meat two or three times a day for a week, while the white dog went hungry for a week. Which dog do you think won the fight? It's obvious: the black dog. The white dog was too weak with hunger to defend himself. Which one do you feed?
Christ is our example. We aren't to measure up to "Mr. or Mrs. Super Christian", because even they at their best are still just human. We are to measure up to Christ. We are to be holy, because He is holy! I have a loooong way to go! Would Jesus be pleased with my watching that new TV show? Well, there's cursing, nudity and inappropriate dialog...I don't think so. Does he want me listening to that new Southern Gospel group that sounds more country than Gospel? Does He get glory from that? No, I doubt it.I don't always choose for my Spirit - sometimes I fail and give over to my flesh, but I don't want to make it a habit! I want to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and feed my Spirit. And when there is a battle going on for my mind, I want my Spirit to win, hands down.
I Peter 2: 21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
I'm trying to do better. I don't watch much TV, and I only listen to music that was produced 10 years ago, or was done by a "non-professional", but I still struggle. Do you ever play a song on the radio or stop "surfing" to watch a show that you've heard about, only to feel a terrible struggle 'neath your chest? I have! That struggle, if you're born again, is the Holy Spirit and your flesh battling it out. Who will win? Well, the stronger of the two, naturally. You may be thinking, "Well, that's the Holy Spirit- He's God, He's stronger than anything." Well, think again! You see, the Holy Spirit is very sensitive. You can quench Him easily. If you feed your flesh more than your Spirit, then your flesh will win. You do this by ignoring the Holy Spirit's tugging at your mind. When He tells you "You know this is wrong, don't do it." and you refuse to listen, then each time after that, the voice will not be as hard to ignore. If you rarely read your Bible, attend church, tithe, or do for others, oh, and here's a biggie -pray, then you will have an anemic spiritual life. Your flesh will be stronger, and your flesh will win those "battles", if you even have a "battle" going on. Maybe you never feel the Holy Spirit tugging at your mind. If you don't then you need to have a check up. Ask yourself: Am I saved? If you are for sure, then ask yourself :When was the last time I had a spiritual "meal" of Bible, and prayer. Not a "ritual" but an actual time where you talked with God and listened to His Word? There's an old illustration of the flesh and the Spirit that goes like this: A man had a white dog and a black dog that he was going to let fight each other. He fed the black dog meat two or three times a day for a week, while the white dog went hungry for a week. Which dog do you think won the fight? It's obvious: the black dog. The white dog was too weak with hunger to defend himself. Which one do you feed?
Christ is our example. We aren't to measure up to "Mr. or Mrs. Super Christian", because even they at their best are still just human. We are to measure up to Christ. We are to be holy, because He is holy! I have a loooong way to go! Would Jesus be pleased with my watching that new TV show? Well, there's cursing, nudity and inappropriate dialog...I don't think so. Does he want me listening to that new Southern Gospel group that sounds more country than Gospel? Does He get glory from that? No, I doubt it.I don't always choose for my Spirit - sometimes I fail and give over to my flesh, but I don't want to make it a habit! I want to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and feed my Spirit. And when there is a battle going on for my mind, I want my Spirit to win, hands down.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
A Beauty Tip for Everyone
My Proverbs for today is one that brings back many memories!
Proverbs 11: 22 As a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion.
Isn't this an unusual scripture? In today's world, I've seen jewelry in some very ridiculous places, but one place I've never seen it, is in a pig's nose!
I say it brings back memories, because I first read this verse when I was 10 years old in a book called Those Kids from Proverbsville by Elizabeth Rice Hanford. My sister bought it for me as a gift at the gift shop at Hyles-Anderson College when she was a student. There was a story in it about discretion using this very verse as it's foundation. I will never forget it, because this was an area in my life that my Mother was really trying perfect in me.
As a talkative person, I often speak before I think! I hope I'm a lot better now, but at 10, I had a lot to learn about discretion! I would say some things that would hurt or even offend others, simply because I wasn't thinking about what I was saying and how someone else would take what I was saying. I also tended to "dominate the conversation"! I didn't mean for others to think I was trying to "take over", I just really enjoyed talking and trying to make others smile or even laugh! Back then, I just made people cry! (And not tears of joy!)
Today's verse is also a beauty tip! After all, who wants to look like a pig with a ring in her nose? Yet, the Bible says that's what an attractive woman looks like when she has no discretion. She's repulsive and odd!
I hope I'm not alone in this "battle for the tongue". I still want to be very careful in choosing my words, and in my spirit as I speak those words. I don't want to repulse others. I want to be warm and friendly and welcoming to those God allows me to meet. Not domineering, just a "happy medium" as my Grandmother used to say.
I'm a pastor's wife, and I feel pressure to be "just right" for everybody. I worry that when a visitor doesn't come back to our church, it might be because I wasn't friendly enough, or maybe I was too friendly! But, then the Holy Spirit tells me that I just have to relax and be "me" and He will give the increase! Whew! That's a relief!
So by God's grace I will go out tomorrow and do my best to be pleasing in my speech. I pray that the folks at my church see, and hear, Jesus in me everyday from the inside out!
Proverbs 11: 22 As a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion.
Isn't this an unusual scripture? In today's world, I've seen jewelry in some very ridiculous places, but one place I've never seen it, is in a pig's nose!
I say it brings back memories, because I first read this verse when I was 10 years old in a book called Those Kids from Proverbsville by Elizabeth Rice Hanford. My sister bought it for me as a gift at the gift shop at Hyles-Anderson College when she was a student. There was a story in it about discretion using this very verse as it's foundation. I will never forget it, because this was an area in my life that my Mother was really trying perfect in me.
As a talkative person, I often speak before I think! I hope I'm a lot better now, but at 10, I had a lot to learn about discretion! I would say some things that would hurt or even offend others, simply because I wasn't thinking about what I was saying and how someone else would take what I was saying. I also tended to "dominate the conversation"! I didn't mean for others to think I was trying to "take over", I just really enjoyed talking and trying to make others smile or even laugh! Back then, I just made people cry! (And not tears of joy!)
Today's verse is also a beauty tip! After all, who wants to look like a pig with a ring in her nose? Yet, the Bible says that's what an attractive woman looks like when she has no discretion. She's repulsive and odd!
I hope I'm not alone in this "battle for the tongue". I still want to be very careful in choosing my words, and in my spirit as I speak those words. I don't want to repulse others. I want to be warm and friendly and welcoming to those God allows me to meet. Not domineering, just a "happy medium" as my Grandmother used to say.
I'm a pastor's wife, and I feel pressure to be "just right" for everybody. I worry that when a visitor doesn't come back to our church, it might be because I wasn't friendly enough, or maybe I was too friendly! But, then the Holy Spirit tells me that I just have to relax and be "me" and He will give the increase! Whew! That's a relief!
So by God's grace I will go out tomorrow and do my best to be pleasing in my speech. I pray that the folks at my church see, and hear, Jesus in me everyday from the inside out!
Thursday, November 8, 2007
I Love to Escape!
As a stay at home Mom, I find my life somewhat isolated and tedious. That's why I love to escape! Sometimes, I escape with my husband on a date! But, that's not too often. I can't get out alone or on a date when I want to, so I try to escape with a good book whenever I get a few minutes. Here are a few of my favorite stories. Please email me at valeriebasham@yahoo.com or please post here if you have any goodies that you'd like to share. I'm always looking for new good books! Oh and by the way, some of these are young adult books, but I feel that a good story is a good story, no matter what age group! I must also add here, that these do not ever replace my Bible time! In fact, I try to not pick up a book to read for pleasure until I have read my Bible for the day, it should be first on my "reading list" everyday!
The Laura Ingalls Wilder books
The Anne of Green Gables series- L.M. Montgomery
Tuck Everlasting -Natalie Babbit
Number the Stars- Lois Lowery
Christy- Catherine Marshall
The Love Comes Softly Series -Janette Oke
The Canadian West Series - Janette Oke
The Blue Bottle Club- Penelope J. Stokes (I'm reading this one now)
I love reading Biographies, but haven't read any lately. The one I've read most recently is Laughs, Luck and Lucy by Jess Oppenheimer, the creator and producer of the I Love Lucy show. It is very funny and a good read. I also love the book Gifted Hands, the autobiography of Ben Carson, a famous neurosurgeon who came out of the projects of Detroit to be one of the most renowned surgeons of our time. He is a Christian. This will encourage and inspire you! Also, the autobiography of George Mueller is excellent. Another must read!
Here are a few of my favorite non-fiction books:
Sheet Music - Kevin Leman
Making Children Mind without Losing Yours - Kevin Leman
What Every Mom Needs - Elise Morgan and Carol Kuykendall
Honey for a Child's Heart - Gladys Hunt
More Hours in My Day- Emilie Barnes
Things Happen when Women Care - Emilie Barnes
50 Veteran Homeschoolers: Things We Wish We'd Known - Compiled and edited by Bill & Diana Waring
Slow & Steady Get Me Ready!- June R. Oberlander (a book to help you prepare your pre-schooler for school)
Help for the Harried Homeschooler - Christine M. Field
Odds & Ends I enjoy:
Simple & Delicious Magazine
Fix it & Forget it - Feasting with your slow cooker (a great cookbook - recipes do not have very many ingredients and it's all for your crockpot! Even desserts!)
Maybe you can try some of these books on for size to create your own escape. It's really wonderful to get new ideas, to travel back in time, to visit different places or to meet famous people without leaving the comfort of your own home! So happy reading!!
The Laura Ingalls Wilder books
The Anne of Green Gables series- L.M. Montgomery
Tuck Everlasting -Natalie Babbit
Number the Stars- Lois Lowery
Christy- Catherine Marshall
The Love Comes Softly Series -Janette Oke
The Canadian West Series - Janette Oke
The Blue Bottle Club- Penelope J. Stokes (I'm reading this one now)
I love reading Biographies, but haven't read any lately. The one I've read most recently is Laughs, Luck and Lucy by Jess Oppenheimer, the creator and producer of the I Love Lucy show. It is very funny and a good read. I also love the book Gifted Hands, the autobiography of Ben Carson, a famous neurosurgeon who came out of the projects of Detroit to be one of the most renowned surgeons of our time. He is a Christian. This will encourage and inspire you! Also, the autobiography of George Mueller is excellent. Another must read!
Here are a few of my favorite non-fiction books:
Sheet Music - Kevin Leman
Making Children Mind without Losing Yours - Kevin Leman
What Every Mom Needs - Elise Morgan and Carol Kuykendall
Honey for a Child's Heart - Gladys Hunt
More Hours in My Day- Emilie Barnes
Things Happen when Women Care - Emilie Barnes
50 Veteran Homeschoolers: Things We Wish We'd Known - Compiled and edited by Bill & Diana Waring
Slow & Steady Get Me Ready!- June R. Oberlander (a book to help you prepare your pre-schooler for school)
Help for the Harried Homeschooler - Christine M. Field
Odds & Ends I enjoy:
Simple & Delicious Magazine
Fix it & Forget it - Feasting with your slow cooker (a great cookbook - recipes do not have very many ingredients and it's all for your crockpot! Even desserts!)
Maybe you can try some of these books on for size to create your own escape. It's really wonderful to get new ideas, to travel back in time, to visit different places or to meet famous people without leaving the comfort of your own home! So happy reading!!
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
He Is With Me
Today, as I awoke to another day of work, I stumbled in to my "spot". And as usual, I have to steel myself against the interruptions that come. This is "my quiet time" and I must guard it, as I know if I don't seek God early, I'll not get to see Him at all! My days are so busy.
I began my prayer time, really kind of thinking "When will He answer all of these needs? And, is it worth this time and effort?" Then I realized God knew my thoughts, so I just said it out loud to Him. "Lord, are you there? It feels like you're not listening so why am I working so hard to get here in my spot if you're not going to help me in a way where I can really see that it's You?" Then, I knew He was there, He's always there. It was just my focus that was off. But still, when will I see the miracles that I am praying for? I needed personal affirmation that He was there, and that He loved me. Today. So, I told Him that.
I went on to my Bible time and the Lord showed up.(Thank you Lord!)
Hebrews 13:5-6
5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.
I got the message. He was there, and I had to wait on Him for His timing to see my miracles take place. These verses spoke to me loud and clear: "Hey, Valerie, be content! I am here, and I will never leave!"
So, just because I'm fighting my flesh, or failing Him in some way, and He feels like He's a million miles away, He isn't. He's right beside me, and He's working - at His pace, not mine! I'm so glad that knowing the Lord doesn't depend on my feelings, because they change daily, or hourly! :o) It depends on His faithfulness, which never waivers, at all!
I began my prayer time, really kind of thinking "When will He answer all of these needs? And, is it worth this time and effort?" Then I realized God knew my thoughts, so I just said it out loud to Him. "Lord, are you there? It feels like you're not listening so why am I working so hard to get here in my spot if you're not going to help me in a way where I can really see that it's You?" Then, I knew He was there, He's always there. It was just my focus that was off. But still, when will I see the miracles that I am praying for? I needed personal affirmation that He was there, and that He loved me. Today. So, I told Him that.
I went on to my Bible time and the Lord showed up.(Thank you Lord!)
Hebrews 13:5-6
5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.
I got the message. He was there, and I had to wait on Him for His timing to see my miracles take place. These verses spoke to me loud and clear: "Hey, Valerie, be content! I am here, and I will never leave!"
So, just because I'm fighting my flesh, or failing Him in some way, and He feels like He's a million miles away, He isn't. He's right beside me, and He's working - at His pace, not mine! I'm so glad that knowing the Lord doesn't depend on my feelings, because they change daily, or hourly! :o) It depends on His faithfulness, which never waivers, at all!
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
She's Looking for the "Precious Life"
In just about every church we've been a part of, we have dealt with the wicked sin of adultery. I suppose it isn't discussed very much because it is of a delicate nature. I am not going to be crass today, but I believe all of us women - Christian women - need to be on guard. Notice that I stated that this is happening in our churches. Of course it is rampant in the world. It goes on everyday, unrestrained. But why in our churches? Do we not realize that Satan wants these types of sins to pervade the Church more than anywhere else? If he can fell a Pastor, evangelist, youth director, missionary, deacon, or Sunday School teacher with this heinous sin then hasn't he accomplished so much more harm on the cause of Christ than if Tom Cruise is brought down by this sin? Don't we already "expect" to hear of such wickedness in Hollywood? But Church? Nah, those are "Christian people."
I know this isn't a popular topic, and I hope I don't lose good friends for writing about it, but I don't care. I'm tired of seeing Christian homes destroyed by sensual lust right in the church pew! It's so wrong, and so avoidable...if we listen to Scripture.
Proverbs 6:26 says For by means of a whorish woman a man is brought to a piece of bread: and the adulteress will hunt for the precious life.
Notice that last part, "the adulteress will hunt for the precious life." That means that she sets her eyes on the prize! She goes for the person with a reputation. If you have been a godly wife to your husband, then he is happy. If you have bragged on him and encouraged him, and loved him, then he is confident. These are the qualities the adulteress wants. She wants someone who is confident, but she doesn't want to marry and build her own man up, she wants one who's already "assembled" so to speak.
Now, I'm a blond, but I'm not dumb. I have a sixth sense about people, and especially women, that I believe all women have!It's something our husbands just don't have. You've heard of "women's intuition"? Well, I believe it's the Holy Spirit if you're saved, but there is something that we women have that helps us to protect our families. We need to listen that "voice" that's telling us when something isn't right. I've been able to warn my husband that some woman, or teenage girl, doesn't have the right motives. And he has always stepped back and said "You know, I believe you're right! I wouldn't have seen it if you hadn't said something."
I have invested almost 10 years in my marriage, and I pray I get about 30 or 40 more! But if we're going to make it that long, then I need to guard my family from the adulteress who's hunting for the precious life - mine! I understand there are some men who go searching for that sort of thing, and that is just as wicked. But I see the warning about "the strange woman" so many times in Proverbs! We need to do our part to protect our homes from the wreck and ruin that Satan would love to see take place in our families - as Christians. Let's stop and listen to that voice - and keep Satan out of our marriages!
Oh, and by the way, while we're on guard against other women, let's be sure that we don't dress or talk like the "adulteress" ourselves! I never want a lady to be uncomfortable with how I carry myself in the presence of her husband! With God as our helper, we can safeguard our homes!
I know this isn't a popular topic, and I hope I don't lose good friends for writing about it, but I don't care. I'm tired of seeing Christian homes destroyed by sensual lust right in the church pew! It's so wrong, and so avoidable...if we listen to Scripture.
Proverbs 6:26 says For by means of a whorish woman a man is brought to a piece of bread: and the adulteress will hunt for the precious life.
Notice that last part, "the adulteress will hunt for the precious life." That means that she sets her eyes on the prize! She goes for the person with a reputation. If you have been a godly wife to your husband, then he is happy. If you have bragged on him and encouraged him, and loved him, then he is confident. These are the qualities the adulteress wants. She wants someone who is confident, but she doesn't want to marry and build her own man up, she wants one who's already "assembled" so to speak.
Now, I'm a blond, but I'm not dumb. I have a sixth sense about people, and especially women, that I believe all women have!It's something our husbands just don't have. You've heard of "women's intuition"? Well, I believe it's the Holy Spirit if you're saved, but there is something that we women have that helps us to protect our families. We need to listen that "voice" that's telling us when something isn't right. I've been able to warn my husband that some woman, or teenage girl, doesn't have the right motives. And he has always stepped back and said "You know, I believe you're right! I wouldn't have seen it if you hadn't said something."
I have invested almost 10 years in my marriage, and I pray I get about 30 or 40 more! But if we're going to make it that long, then I need to guard my family from the adulteress who's hunting for the precious life - mine! I understand there are some men who go searching for that sort of thing, and that is just as wicked. But I see the warning about "the strange woman" so many times in Proverbs! We need to do our part to protect our homes from the wreck and ruin that Satan would love to see take place in our families - as Christians. Let's stop and listen to that voice - and keep Satan out of our marriages!
Oh, and by the way, while we're on guard against other women, let's be sure that we don't dress or talk like the "adulteress" ourselves! I never want a lady to be uncomfortable with how I carry myself in the presence of her husband! With God as our helper, we can safeguard our homes!
Monday, November 5, 2007
The World was not Worthy
There are so many great truths in Hebrews! I love the verses that are well known. Hebrews 4:15 & 16, 10:25, 11:1,6 are a few. Of course, most Bible-believing Baptists know all about Hebrews 11 - "The Hall of Faith" it has been called. It is an amazing chapter! It chronicles the lives of great Old Testament Christians beginning with Abel, telling of the sacrifices they made for the cause of Christ. And yet, they never saw the promise of a Savior fulfilled! They believed in Him, yet they never saw Him. But they didn't just believe in Him the way people do today, with lipservice only. Some lost everything, some died for Him.
These passages always make me get a lump in my throat...they are so convicting.
Hebrews 11:36-39
36 And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:37 They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;38 (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.39 And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:
I am such a wimp! And if you're honest, you probably are too. How can I complain about the trials I am facing? And believe you me, I am queen of the complaint kingdom! The Bible - God's Word- says of these great Christians, "(Of whom the world was not worthy:)" Wow! God values faithfulness. He values loyalty. These folks simply trusted Him and kept going even though it cost them the ultimate sacrifice in some cases...their lives, and God said the world wasn't worthy of them.
Hebrews 11:6 says But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. To please the Lord we must have faith in Him and realize that He rewards us for seeking to know Him more.
These passages always make me get a lump in my throat...they are so convicting.
Hebrews 11:36-39
36 And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:37 They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;38 (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.39 And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:
I am such a wimp! And if you're honest, you probably are too. How can I complain about the trials I am facing? And believe you me, I am queen of the complaint kingdom! The Bible - God's Word- says of these great Christians, "(Of whom the world was not worthy:)" Wow! God values faithfulness. He values loyalty. These folks simply trusted Him and kept going even though it cost them the ultimate sacrifice in some cases...their lives, and God said the world wasn't worthy of them.
Hebrews 11:6 says But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. To please the Lord we must have faith in Him and realize that He rewards us for seeking to know Him more.
I believe that if these great Christians could die for Him, then I surely could live for Him. With His help, I want to be faithful to Him till the very end.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
I Needed That!
Boy, I sure did need these verses that I read today. I wanted to share them. I hope they help you today as you serve the Lord today.
Hebrews 10:35-36
35 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward.36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.
Sometimes I lose my confidence that things will turn out right, but that's because my confidence is misplaced. I need to be confident that He will keep His Word! I can't be sure of much in this world, but I can be sure of Him! And, yes, I need patience! Thank you, Lord, for Your wonderful Word!
Have a great Sunday as you worship Him "in Spirit and in truth"!
Hebrews 10:35-36
35 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward.36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.
Sometimes I lose my confidence that things will turn out right, but that's because my confidence is misplaced. I need to be confident that He will keep His Word! I can't be sure of much in this world, but I can be sure of Him! And, yes, I need patience! Thank you, Lord, for Your wonderful Word!
Have a great Sunday as you worship Him "in Spirit and in truth"!
Saturday, November 3, 2007
A Sense of Urgency
I read some many years ago a book entitled Life As Viewed from the Goldfish Bowl by Beverly Hyles. She wrote about life as a Pastor's wife, including some of the pitfalls to which many a preacher's wife become victims. If you are in the ministry, I highly recommend this book. In the book, Mrs. Hyles talks about going to God each day with a sense of urgency. We never know what each day holds for us, and we need to be as close to Him as possible so that whatever does happen, we have the help we need close at hand. I know that God is with us always if we're saved, not just if we have our daily devotions. However, be honest, if you had a good friend that moved away, and you never wrote her, called her or visited her, would you call her for a loan if you were in a tight spot financially? I wouldn't dream of it! If I didn't care to keep in touch with her during my good times, why would I dare ask a favor in harsh times?? That would take a lot of nerve!
Now think about your walk with God. Do you talk to Him daily? Do you hear from Him by reading His letter to you each day, the Bible? Is your life going great right now? Good! You should thank Him for making that possible. Are things a bummer? Then talk to Him about it. Maybe you haven't kept in touch with Him like you should, but go ahead and tell Him you blew it. He's there waiting to restore you.
I've recently seen in the national news a story about Fred Phelps, the pastor of Westboro Baptist Church in Topeka, Kansas. He is a preacher of hate, and he just lost a law suit to the sum of $11 million for picketing soldiers funerals. We lived in Topeka and witnessed his church's hate first hand. I don't find Fred Phelp's god in the Bible. I believe John 3:16! God loves America - He loves you! Is He just? Yes. But He cannot hate. If you haven't been what you should be, don't be afraid to go to Him now. He is hoping you will come back!
I don't pray and study my Bible like I should, but I do feel a renewed "sense of urgency" to get to it sometime in my day. I need to know He's close
to me as I face each new day.
Now think about your walk with God. Do you talk to Him daily? Do you hear from Him by reading His letter to you each day, the Bible? Is your life going great right now? Good! You should thank Him for making that possible. Are things a bummer? Then talk to Him about it. Maybe you haven't kept in touch with Him like you should, but go ahead and tell Him you blew it. He's there waiting to restore you.
I've recently seen in the national news a story about Fred Phelps, the pastor of Westboro Baptist Church in Topeka, Kansas. He is a preacher of hate, and he just lost a law suit to the sum of $11 million for picketing soldiers funerals. We lived in Topeka and witnessed his church's hate first hand. I don't find Fred Phelp's god in the Bible. I believe John 3:16! God loves America - He loves you! Is He just? Yes. But He cannot hate. If you haven't been what you should be, don't be afraid to go to Him now. He is hoping you will come back!
I don't pray and study my Bible like I should, but I do feel a renewed "sense of urgency" to get to it sometime in my day. I need to know He's close
to me as I face each new day.
Friday, November 2, 2007
Here I go... again!
Yes, it's that time again! Time for Valerie to fall prey to the ever present desire to feel sorry for herself!! "Haven't you blogged about this before?" you ask? Yes! Yes, I have! But, obviously, I haven't arrived, so here I go again!
I have been in the "depths of despair" as Anne Shirley once said, and I really hate it when that happens! Things have been so busy and tiring lately and I just keep holding out hope that the Lord will send us some added faithful folks to church, or a huge offering (hey, it could happen!) that when it doesn't happen, I slip off my comfy plateau and into that bottomless abyss of self-pity. Forgive my transparency here, but why try to hide it? I'm sorry if this shocks or disappoints anyone, I think most of you already know how "full of faults" I am. If you didn't, well, you do now.
But, you needn't fear, for the Lord has lined me out...again!
When I need encouragement, He's there. When I need correction, well, He's there then too! Today, He helped me out. I didn't deserve it. He should have scolded me through His Word, but He is so longsuffering. Instead, He encouraged me today.
Hebrews 6:10 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have showed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.
I heard someone say that the Christian life is a marathon, not a sprint. That's a perfect analogy! It's like when you're running a marathon (not that I've ever run one, but I have a good imagination!), and you are just ready to say "Forget it! The finish line is too far! I'll never make it!!!!" But then, someone runs along 'side you and gives you a cup of water, or Gatorade, and pats you on the back and says "Good job! You're doing great! Almost there!" And then, you get a second wind and even speed up a little. That's how it feels. We're in Texas, and it's a great place, but the Devil fights here just like anywhere else! The work is slow but steady, and sometimes, it feels like the finish line is just too far away...we'll never make it. I'm reminded of Psalm 89:46 where David asks "How long, LORD? wilt thou hide thyself for ever?" That's how I feel sometimes. Like it will be forever!
When I feel this way, I have the Bible to help me. Have I told you how I love God's Word? And I need to love it more.
Here are some ways it helps me:
It Counsels me - Proverbs
It Cheers me - Psalms, Philippians, Hebrews and many others.
It Corrects me - The Whole Thing!
It Comforts me - Psalms and much of the New Testament. Psalm 34:18 has been a particular comfort to me.
So, if you're feeling that "What's the use?" kind of feeling about your work for the Lord, like I do sometimes, then take heart! God sees, and He doesn't forget your work and labor of love. His Word is there to come along 'side you, pat you on the back and offer you that much needed drink of Gatorade and the encouragement that "You're doing great. Just keep going..."
I have been in the "depths of despair" as Anne Shirley once said, and I really hate it when that happens! Things have been so busy and tiring lately and I just keep holding out hope that the Lord will send us some added faithful folks to church, or a huge offering (hey, it could happen!) that when it doesn't happen, I slip off my comfy plateau and into that bottomless abyss of self-pity. Forgive my transparency here, but why try to hide it? I'm sorry if this shocks or disappoints anyone, I think most of you already know how "full of faults" I am. If you didn't, well, you do now.
But, you needn't fear, for the Lord has lined me out...again!
When I need encouragement, He's there. When I need correction, well, He's there then too! Today, He helped me out. I didn't deserve it. He should have scolded me through His Word, but He is so longsuffering. Instead, He encouraged me today.
Hebrews 6:10 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have showed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.
I heard someone say that the Christian life is a marathon, not a sprint. That's a perfect analogy! It's like when you're running a marathon (not that I've ever run one, but I have a good imagination!), and you are just ready to say "Forget it! The finish line is too far! I'll never make it!!!!" But then, someone runs along 'side you and gives you a cup of water, or Gatorade, and pats you on the back and says "Good job! You're doing great! Almost there!" And then, you get a second wind and even speed up a little. That's how it feels. We're in Texas, and it's a great place, but the Devil fights here just like anywhere else! The work is slow but steady, and sometimes, it feels like the finish line is just too far away...we'll never make it. I'm reminded of Psalm 89:46 where David asks "How long, LORD? wilt thou hide thyself for ever?" That's how I feel sometimes. Like it will be forever!
When I feel this way, I have the Bible to help me. Have I told you how I love God's Word? And I need to love it more.
Here are some ways it helps me:
It Counsels me - Proverbs
It Cheers me - Psalms, Philippians, Hebrews and many others.
It Corrects me - The Whole Thing!
It Comforts me - Psalms and much of the New Testament. Psalm 34:18 has been a particular comfort to me.
So, if you're feeling that "What's the use?" kind of feeling about your work for the Lord, like I do sometimes, then take heart! God sees, and He doesn't forget your work and labor of love. His Word is there to come along 'side you, pat you on the back and offer you that much needed drink of Gatorade and the encouragement that "You're doing great. Just keep going..."
Thursday, November 1, 2007
You Are My Bright Spot in the Day
As a stay at home mom, I am never off duty. Right now, as I sit a the computer, I could be called upon to referee an argument, clean up a spill, change a diaper, and well, you know what I mean. It's taxing. It hardly ever lets up. I home school two kids, so that adds a whole new "job" to my already lengthy job description. I have to have a "bright spot" in my day. Sometimes, I work hard and promise myself I'll take a moment to eat a brownie and read a book, or sometimes, I promise myself a walk, or to put my feet up and enjoy one of my faves...Andy or Lucy! Lately, my bright spot has been doing what I'm doing now, blogging! I really enjoy sharing thoughts, ideas, news and views with you. I really enjoy hearing from you. I've been able to keep in touch with friends like never before since I became a "blogger".
It's been really crazy here lately. Laci is sick with yet another ear infection and some sort of rash??? Leslie is, well, being 2 all the time! We've had lots to do at church, so I haven't been able to enjoy my little "mini-vacation" (blogging) as much as I'd like to. But I still take a break of some kind each day, even if it's only five minutes. Why? Because I need a bright spot! I need something that makes me smile. If you don't have a "bright spot" each day, you should get one! It gives you something besides cooking and laundry to wake up to each morning! I guess you could say that you are my bright spot each day - you make me smile, and everyone needs a smile! :o)
Oh, and by the way, thanks for making me smile today!
It's been really crazy here lately. Laci is sick with yet another ear infection and some sort of rash??? Leslie is, well, being 2 all the time! We've had lots to do at church, so I haven't been able to enjoy my little "mini-vacation" (blogging) as much as I'd like to. But I still take a break of some kind each day, even if it's only five minutes. Why? Because I need a bright spot! I need something that makes me smile. If you don't have a "bright spot" each day, you should get one! It gives you something besides cooking and laundry to wake up to each morning! I guess you could say that you are my bright spot each day - you make me smile, and everyone needs a smile! :o)
Oh, and by the way, thanks for making me smile today!