For several months the Lord has been telling me to do something, to cut something out of my life.
And, I've said No.
Frankly, I've said," I've got it under control, Don't worry God, I can handle this. You take care of the other stuff-I' got this covered."
Today that still small voice, became a LOUD ROAR in the middle of our Bible study. I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to make it through to the end - I KNEW I must obey and OBEY RIGHT NOW.
In that obedience it meant also going to The Hubs and apologizing. Yep, obedience with a spot of humbling. Good times.
I kid, but actually it is good. GOD is GOOD and in obedience there is freedom!
I feel about 50 lbs lighter and like I could dance for joy.
There is nothing as freeing as doing what God would have you do.
You would think I would have learned by now to do what I teach my children 'Obey right away. Delayed obedience is not obedience.' But, I'm walking this thing out just like you.
So, here is some encouragement from a wayward Girl, whatever He is telling you to do. DO it. Don't hesitate, just do it. You'll be the better for it- I know I am.
Obedience isn't always easy, but it always leads to freedom!
Our oldest son had a bad week last week.
Bad. Just about anything that could go wrong did go wrong.
Some of it was done to him and some he did to himself.
As any Momma will tell you, it is difficult to watch your child struggle.
And when someone hurts your baby. . .well everyone better just stand clear as we go into Momma Bear mode.
But, several of the things he dealt with last week were of his own making.
It is hard to grow up.
But growing requires being stretched. And sometimes stretching hurts. As he (and the rest of our children) learn this difficult lessons-that we want them to learn at home-I was reminded how much I want our home to be a place of safety and security for them.
Like you I've been watching the news around the world. And, I'm no foreign policy expert, just a mom in the middle of the United States. But, as I see men, women and children yearning for freedom and all the struggles that go with that journey, I found myself praying for peace for them.
Especially the children, who are always the ones who get hurt, forgotten and walked over first.
As I was praying for peace around the world, that still small voice began speaking to me. He asked 'When was the last time you prayed for peace for YOUR children?' 'What about peace for your own people?'. OUCH! His voice may come quietly, but that doesn't mean it isn't powerful!
So, this week, in my quiet time and then throughout the day, I've been praying for peace for my children. Let's face it, the world they live in does not desire peace. It can be a dark and scary place. Our goal as parents is to rear children who make a difference in their worlds. Who are light in the darkness.
I've even began taking a votive candle and lighting it for them as I pray- a symbol of the life we would want for them. (no small feat for a little Baptist girl! )
Would you join me in praying for peace for our children?
That our homes would become places of peace-safety harbors-where no matter what battles are raging all around them and in them, our children can come and know peace.
I will both lie down in peace, and sleep;
For You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8
Bad. Just about anything that could go wrong did go wrong.
Some of it was done to him and some he did to himself.
As any Momma will tell you, it is difficult to watch your child struggle.
And when someone hurts your baby. . .well everyone better just stand clear as we go into Momma Bear mode.
But, several of the things he dealt with last week were of his own making.
It is hard to grow up.
But growing requires being stretched. And sometimes stretching hurts. As he (and the rest of our children) learn this difficult lessons-that we want them to learn at home-I was reminded how much I want our home to be a place of safety and security for them.
Like you I've been watching the news around the world. And, I'm no foreign policy expert, just a mom in the middle of the United States. But, as I see men, women and children yearning for freedom and all the struggles that go with that journey, I found myself praying for peace for them.
Especially the children, who are always the ones who get hurt, forgotten and walked over first.
As I was praying for peace around the world, that still small voice began speaking to me. He asked 'When was the last time you prayed for peace for YOUR children?' 'What about peace for your own people?'. OUCH! His voice may come quietly, but that doesn't mean it isn't powerful!
So, this week, in my quiet time and then throughout the day, I've been praying for peace for my children. Let's face it, the world they live in does not desire peace. It can be a dark and scary place. Our goal as parents is to rear children who make a difference in their worlds. Who are light in the darkness.
I've even began taking a votive candle and lighting it for them as I pray- a symbol of the life we would want for them. (no small feat for a little Baptist girl! )
Would you join me in praying for peace for our children?
That our homes would become places of peace-safety harbors-where no matter what battles are raging all around them and in them, our children can come and know peace.
I will both lie down in peace, and sleep;
For You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8
Well, the great state of Kansas got snow again yesterday. Snow with a lovely layer of sleet and ice underneath. And frankly, I am so over it.
Ready for some glorious spring days with the trees and flowers blooming and birds singing.
It will come, it does every year, but oh how the waiting become difficult the longer the cold lasts.
Some winters are mild and fly by quickly, but some are hard and last much longer than we'd like.
Life is like that isn't it?
Sometimes we can be in the middle of some difficult stuff, but soon it's over and thing get better quickly.
Other times the 'winters' of our lives, those cold and difficult times, seem to last much longer than we ever thought and much harder than we could have imagined.
If you find yourself in that place right now, know that the maker of the seasons is right there with you and in His time, the ground will thaw, the sun will shine and the flowers will bloom!
Sometimes in the middle of the yuck of my life I like to take a little cue from my good friend Mara Von Trapp and think of my favorite things.
(BTW, there are much more spiritual things you can and should do in times of trouble, but it's Friday and I wanted to have some fun.)
So, I thought I'd list 3 of my favorite things and then ask you to do the same.
Just leave your list of 3 fav's in the comment section. They can be any 3 things you want. Books, tv shows/movies, flowers, songs. Whatever.
Here are mine-
acrylic nails with French tips. They looks so clean and pretty-LOVE them!
Hot, buttery popcorn-my favorite snack-mmmm!
The Penguins of Madagascar -kids or no kids, this show is funny. I dare to watch and not laugh!
Ok, on this cold and snowy day those are 3 of my favorite things-what are yours?
Don't be shy, leave a comment so we can all share in the fun!
Ready for some glorious spring days with the trees and flowers blooming and birds singing.
It will come, it does every year, but oh how the waiting become difficult the longer the cold lasts.
Some winters are mild and fly by quickly, but some are hard and last much longer than we'd like.
Life is like that isn't it?
Sometimes we can be in the middle of some difficult stuff, but soon it's over and thing get better quickly.
Other times the 'winters' of our lives, those cold and difficult times, seem to last much longer than we ever thought and much harder than we could have imagined.
If you find yourself in that place right now, know that the maker of the seasons is right there with you and in His time, the ground will thaw, the sun will shine and the flowers will bloom!
Sometimes in the middle of the yuck of my life I like to take a little cue from my good friend Mara Von Trapp and think of my favorite things.
(BTW, there are much more spiritual things you can and should do in times of trouble, but it's Friday and I wanted to have some fun.)
So, I thought I'd list 3 of my favorite things and then ask you to do the same.
Just leave your list of 3 fav's in the comment section. They can be any 3 things you want. Books, tv shows/movies, flowers, songs. Whatever.
Here are mine-
acrylic nails with French tips. They looks so clean and pretty-LOVE them!
Hot, buttery popcorn-my favorite snack-mmmm!
The Penguins of Madagascar -kids or no kids, this show is funny. I dare to watch and not laugh!
Ok, on this cold and snowy day those are 3 of my favorite things-what are yours?
Don't be shy, leave a comment so we can all share in the fun!
Words jumbled up in my head.
Overflowing thoughts trying to get out.
How do I get them out and say what needs to be said.
Some days they flow so easy
Others they seem to get stuck.
I've heard it often said you equip the called not call the equipped.
Oh how I am proof of that.
There are days when this crazy mixed up mind of mine feels sure
that you didn't mean me
Surely, you meant her over there.
You know, the one who seems to have it all together?
Then I hear you whispering,
" I called you by name
Do you remember?
Do you believe?
Make a choice
Ignore me or let's go
Just remember, I lead and you follow."
Following, following, how I wish I could see what lies in store around the corner up ahead.
A crazy curve? A bump? An open road?
But where would be the faith in that be?
What need to believe in the One Who Calls Me Child,
If He handed out maps and clear destinations?
I'll hang on and keep believing that the words will come when He wills and wants them.
And this silly, mixed up Girl is exactly what He intended.
Overflowing thoughts trying to get out.
How do I get them out and say what needs to be said.
Some days they flow so easy
Others they seem to get stuck.
I've heard it often said you equip the called not call the equipped.
Oh how I am proof of that.
There are days when this crazy mixed up mind of mine feels sure
that you didn't mean me
Surely, you meant her over there.
You know, the one who seems to have it all together?
Then I hear you whispering,
" I called you by name
Do you remember?
Do you believe?
Make a choice
Ignore me or let's go
Just remember, I lead and you follow."
Following, following, how I wish I could see what lies in store around the corner up ahead.
A crazy curve? A bump? An open road?
But where would be the faith in that be?
What need to believe in the One Who Calls Me Child,
If He handed out maps and clear destinations?
I'll hang on and keep believing that the words will come when He wills and wants them.
And this silly, mixed up Girl is exactly what He intended.
Today The Hubs and I are celebrating 19 years of wedded bliss!
Ok, we aren't celebrating today. Today we're working and tonight taking our oldest to a big rally at church for an event he's part of this weekend.
If someone would have told me 19 years ago that is how we'd spend our day, I would have told them they were crazy. I was young and stupid when we got married!
But we are celebrating this weekend with a little getaway that we are SUPER excited about!
Anyone who's been married, let's say for more than a week, is lying if they tell you marriage is easy or perfect. Two selfish sinners coming together is not a recipe for easy. However, it can be great if you put Jesus right in the middle.
There have been times in our married life that we've been much better about doing that then others.
But, by God's grace alone we've weathered storms, been on the mountain top, walked the valley of the shadow of death, been in the desert, and times of peace. Each season is a blessing-maybe hard to see it at the time, but looking at the over all arch of our lives, seeing God's hand each step of the way and His sweet grace covering all our mistakes is a true blessing.
On this day of celebrating the man I love, I thought I'd give him a little shout out here on the blog. Thanks for indulging me.
And you know I love a good list!
So, for The Hubs, Nineteen things I love about you~
1) I love that you love Jesus first- then us.
2) I love that in nineteen years of marriage I've never once had to remind you about a birthday, holiday or anniversary. No matter how crazy our lives where at the moment, you've always remembered and made is special.
3) I love that in 19 years you've never ONCE said one negative thing about the way I look.
Crazy hair cuts and colors. . pounds that have come and gone and come again. . you've always just told me how pretty I was. That means allot to a girl!
4) I love that you love my folks and think of them as your own.
5) I love that you love my extended family . . .and you don't just love them, you enjoy spending time with them.
6) I love that you always work hard for us.
7) I love the fact that you can enjoy a good musical with me!
8) I love that when something questionable comes on I don't have to ask you to turn the channel, you're already doing it.
9) I love that 'my friends' are your friends. That you like us to spend time together and you enjoy them too and pray for them and care about what's happening in their lives.
10) I love that I never had to tell you that you were supposed to change diapers, feed babies, get up in the night with them. . you knew that is what a good daddy does.
11) I love that when it was touch and go with me after I had Jude, I never worried about leaving, knowing if the worst happened, the boys would be taken care of. I knew you would do a great job!
12) I love that you love having a daughter as much as sons. You've never had the 'my boy' mentality.
13) I love that you know I'm independent and you don't try and change that.
14) I love that when it comes to furniture, paint colors and accessories for the home, you don't need antlers and camo or race cars to enjoy the space.
15) I love that you've never loved sports more than us. I've never been a football widow (or any other sport). Thanks for putting us first!
16)I love that even though it would've been more practical, you knew I couldn't handle a mini van and you let me pick out the Expedition!
17) I love that you indulge my oddness and never put up a fuss when I want us all to 'match'. Really that aren't many men who would do that!
18) I love that you are my biggest cheerleader-that you think I can do anything I set my mind too!
19) I love that you know and understand my love of certain musicians -that you've taken the time to appreciate them too!
Thank you for nineteen years, three beautiful children and a lifetime of memories.
That even when things weren't easy, with God's help and grace, we made it through.
I'm so thankful to be walking this road with you. . .I can't wait to see what the next 19 years bring, and I wouldn't want to do them with any one else but you!
All my love!
XOXO
Ok, we aren't celebrating today. Today we're working and tonight taking our oldest to a big rally at church for an event he's part of this weekend.
If someone would have told me 19 years ago that is how we'd spend our day, I would have told them they were crazy. I was young and stupid when we got married!
But we are celebrating this weekend with a little getaway that we are SUPER excited about!
Anyone who's been married, let's say for more than a week, is lying if they tell you marriage is easy or perfect. Two selfish sinners coming together is not a recipe for easy. However, it can be great if you put Jesus right in the middle.
There have been times in our married life that we've been much better about doing that then others.
But, by God's grace alone we've weathered storms, been on the mountain top, walked the valley of the shadow of death, been in the desert, and times of peace. Each season is a blessing-maybe hard to see it at the time, but looking at the over all arch of our lives, seeing God's hand each step of the way and His sweet grace covering all our mistakes is a true blessing.
On this day of celebrating the man I love, I thought I'd give him a little shout out here on the blog. Thanks for indulging me.
And you know I love a good list!
So, for The Hubs, Nineteen things I love about you~
1) I love that you love Jesus first- then us.
2) I love that in nineteen years of marriage I've never once had to remind you about a birthday, holiday or anniversary. No matter how crazy our lives where at the moment, you've always remembered and made is special.
3) I love that in 19 years you've never ONCE said one negative thing about the way I look.
Crazy hair cuts and colors. . pounds that have come and gone and come again. . you've always just told me how pretty I was. That means allot to a girl!
4) I love that you love my folks and think of them as your own.
5) I love that you love my extended family . . .and you don't just love them, you enjoy spending time with them.
6) I love that you always work hard for us.
7) I love the fact that you can enjoy a good musical with me!
8) I love that when something questionable comes on I don't have to ask you to turn the channel, you're already doing it.
9) I love that 'my friends' are your friends. That you like us to spend time together and you enjoy them too and pray for them and care about what's happening in their lives.
10) I love that I never had to tell you that you were supposed to change diapers, feed babies, get up in the night with them. . you knew that is what a good daddy does.
11) I love that when it was touch and go with me after I had Jude, I never worried about leaving, knowing if the worst happened, the boys would be taken care of. I knew you would do a great job!
12) I love that you love having a daughter as much as sons. You've never had the 'my boy' mentality.
13) I love that you know I'm independent and you don't try and change that.
14) I love that when it comes to furniture, paint colors and accessories for the home, you don't need antlers and camo or race cars to enjoy the space.
15) I love that you've never loved sports more than us. I've never been a football widow (or any other sport). Thanks for putting us first!
16)I love that even though it would've been more practical, you knew I couldn't handle a mini van and you let me pick out the Expedition!
17) I love that you indulge my oddness and never put up a fuss when I want us all to 'match'. Really that aren't many men who would do that!
18) I love that you are my biggest cheerleader-that you think I can do anything I set my mind too!
19) I love that you know and understand my love of certain musicians -that you've taken the time to appreciate them too!
Thank you for nineteen years, three beautiful children and a lifetime of memories.
That even when things weren't easy, with God's help and grace, we made it through.
I'm so thankful to be walking this road with you. . .I can't wait to see what the next 19 years bring, and I wouldn't want to do them with any one else but you!
All my love!
XOXO
This has been a rough -read lots of snow and coldness, Oh the dreaded coldness-winter.
Rough and long. And frankly we probably aren't finished.
BUT, the past two days have been full of sunshine and warm temperatures and the promise of upper 60's by Thursday. Yes, you just heard the entire state of Kansas cheer!
As I was out and about Saturday and Sunday and saw the blessed melting right in front of my eyes, I began thinking - WE SURVIVED!
Let's just say during the Blizzard and many snow days later it didn't always feel like that would happen.
Sometimes when you are in the middle of something, it feels like it's going to last forever and never change. That you very well may be stunk under 2 feet of snow forever. Cold and lonely. Because, one of the side effects of a ridiculous amount of snow and ice is being homebound.
All the normal things you do and people you see along the way are suddenly cut off as you can't get out of drive way. Snow can make you lonely.
I've noticed that life can make you cold and lonely as well. Trouble comes and our hearts can become frozen or we can be cut off from those we love.
I remember when C was six months old and so VERY VERY SICK, that while they were trying to figure out what was wrong with him and how to fix it, the doctor had us pull him out of the church nursery and as much as we could not even take him out to friends, the store ect.
Basically, keep him isolated as much as possible.
Talk about cold and lonely.
But, things change.
Today he's a thriving Middle Schooler who is on pace to out grow my by the end of summer.
Because, things do change.
The sun comes back out, the ground warms up and the snow melts. Birds sing and flowers bloom. Eventually.
Just like nature, life is full of seasons.
So if you're finding yourself in a cold and lonely place, I just want to encourage you to HOLD ON.
The warm up will come!
It doesn't mean it won't get cold and frozen again because that is part of living on planet Earth.
But, it DOES mean, it won't be like this forever!
To everything there is a season,
A time for every purpose under heaven:
Ecclesiastes 3:1
Hold on Dear One, it won't be like this forever!
Rough and long. And frankly we probably aren't finished.
BUT, the past two days have been full of sunshine and warm temperatures and the promise of upper 60's by Thursday. Yes, you just heard the entire state of Kansas cheer!
As I was out and about Saturday and Sunday and saw the blessed melting right in front of my eyes, I began thinking - WE SURVIVED!
Let's just say during the Blizzard and many snow days later it didn't always feel like that would happen.
Sometimes when you are in the middle of something, it feels like it's going to last forever and never change. That you very well may be stunk under 2 feet of snow forever. Cold and lonely. Because, one of the side effects of a ridiculous amount of snow and ice is being homebound.
All the normal things you do and people you see along the way are suddenly cut off as you can't get out of drive way. Snow can make you lonely.
I've noticed that life can make you cold and lonely as well. Trouble comes and our hearts can become frozen or we can be cut off from those we love.
I remember when C was six months old and so VERY VERY SICK, that while they were trying to figure out what was wrong with him and how to fix it, the doctor had us pull him out of the church nursery and as much as we could not even take him out to friends, the store ect.
Basically, keep him isolated as much as possible.
Talk about cold and lonely.
But, things change.
Today he's a thriving Middle Schooler who is on pace to out grow my by the end of summer.
Because, things do change.
The sun comes back out, the ground warms up and the snow melts. Birds sing and flowers bloom. Eventually.
Just like nature, life is full of seasons.
So if you're finding yourself in a cold and lonely place, I just want to encourage you to HOLD ON.
The warm up will come!
It doesn't mean it won't get cold and frozen again because that is part of living on planet Earth.
But, it DOES mean, it won't be like this forever!
To everything there is a season,
A time for every purpose under heaven:
Ecclesiastes 3:1
Hold on Dear One, it won't be like this forever!
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