God, My Standard Issue of Faith Gear is Busted

Sometimes I wonder if God forgot my personal force field when I accepted Him as my Savior. Maybe, it's defective and it needs to go in for a repair or two, or maybe I need to be issued a better instruction manual. You know the Scripture that talks about our personal force field right? 

¹¹ Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. ¹² For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. ¹³ Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.Ephesians 6:11-13.

The pressures of motherhood, personal issues that I can't seem to let go, and old wounds have been reopened. The problem is that I still believe life would be better, if not safer in the arms of Christ. Here is the reality check, God didn't promise a safe life filled with roses and problems nonexistent. He brought my reality check this morning when I happened to have read a devotional email for mommies:

Beloved, do not be surprised as the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you. 1 Peter 4:12.

Instead, He reminded me to renew my mind daily by talking with Him. Not just going through the motions of reading my Bible and sending up a quick prayer; but to really sit down and tell Him what's on my heart. When we spend time with Him, it's like we buff our armor and ensuring it fits correctly. 

Because we are going to have trials, via tantrum prone kids, venomous encounters with not so friendly people, financial strain; we can rest in knowing that He has provided what we need, when we need it. We can rest knowing that our force field will protect us through trials and will shape our spiritual life, tempering it, and strengthening our resolve. 

Go on, talk to Him about your day, talk to Him about what is on your heart. This will give Him the opportunity to prepare you to walk through the next trial with Him Shielding what needs shielded and helping you battle what needed battled. 

Stinkin' Thinkin': 3 Tips to Take Those Thoughts Captive

Have you heard the term, "Stinkin' thinkin'"? It makes me giggle along with my kids. It rhymes, it's catchy. It reminds me every time I hear it or think it, that I need to take my thoughts captive. Maybe you do too, which is why I wanted to share with you. 

“…and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ…”  2 Corinthians 10:5 

Your Thoughts Are Who You Are

Do you struggle to take control of your thoughts? I know I do. Very recently, after a misunderstanding, old wounds were reopened and all I could do was dwell on the injustice I felt. What I didn't realize was how it colored everything. Because my thoughts were dwelling on this incident, it painted how I thought of my kids, my work, and myself. 

Maybe you struggle with envy, jealousy, rejection, worry, or fear. Or your thoughts are just plain unkind, crabby, unhelpful thoughts like:

"What is she doing on the worship team, have you seen the suggestive clothes she wears?"

"Why does she always seem to have the newest phone or shoes, new curtains, new house, and when I buy stuff, it doesn't look that good. My taste stinks."

"I can't believe they let that woman in here."

"He wants to go to school next year, but I'm worried that he won't be ready."

"I never seem to have it all together, why I can't I be better at this?"

"She is SO unkind, just plain mean to me. I'm so hurt that she said that to me. And my kids have been little monsters today, they are SO not listening to me. AND the house is a complete disaster, AND I didn't have time to clean it. AND that to-do list of repairs is still on the fridge. AND my husband is going to be getting home late again...AND"

Tell me what you thought of the last example? Have you ever noticed that if you're in a stinky mood, it permeates and spills over onto everything that is happening in your life? Did you ever stop to notice how hard it is not have stinky thoughts? They just keep rolling in like tidal waves in a storm. Things keep getting worse and worse with no end in sight.

Thankfully I have a few tips that I've picked up along the way that I can share with you that I've learned from friends and because I've encountered situations like the examples of above.

Febreeze that Stinkin' Thinkin'

I Need a Brainwash

Music affects our moods, it has the ability to lighten our moods and lower our blood pressure. I love listening to my favorite radio stations.

• My Bridge Radio can be played on your computer or via radio. They now offer the lyrics to the songs they broadcast, which is awesome if you're a wordy chick like me.
• K-LOVE is another favorite I use online. 

Some of my current favorite videos via YouTube:

• Lose My Soul:Toby Mac, Kirk Franklin, & Mandisa
• The Lost Get Found: Britt Nicole (This is has been my ring tone for the three years.)
• From The Inside Out: Seventh Day Slumber (I'm a groupie, so proud of these boys!)

Of course you can always use your IPod and create a playlist of songs that are uplifting and remind you of who really is in charge of your life and your mind.

Stick It

Of course, we can't listen to music all of the time, but you do carry a purse don't you? Get some note cards or sticky notes, write out specific verses that empower you, knowing God is in control. 

Some of my favorite power Scriptures that I stand on are:

When I need peace:

• ...And the peace of God...will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 4:6-7.
• “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you...“  John 14:27

When I need to know God is with me:

• “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you…”  Isaiah 43:1-3
• “The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid.”  Psalm 118:6

Find Scriptures that speak to your heart, stick them in your purse, on your mirror, in your car, on your treadmill.

Let Someone Read to You

If you're a busy mama which I imagine you are, there are other ways to stay in God's word and let His Words strengthen your heart and clear your mind of stinky thoughts. I just discovered YouVersion for editing purposes but found they have apps for your latest gadget. It's a great way to stay in God's word or you can listen to it at night as you're falling asleep.

• You Version for IPhone
• You Version for Android
• Listen from your computer at Bible Gateway

Taking our thoughts captivated can be a tenaciousness process, unless we discipline ourselves to be grounded in God's Word. I've found over time, that my kids are better thinkers and actors when we are listening to worship music. I know your struggles are just as real as mine and it's hard to keep our thoughts pure, but with God all things are possible!

Do You Pray With Your Man?

    "When two of you get together on anything at all on earth and make a prayer of it, my Father in heaven goes into action. And when two or three of you are together because of me, you can be sure that I'll be there." Matthew 18:19-20 MSG.

     "Chris, we really need to pray."

     "Right now? Its almost midnight. What do you want to pray about?"

     I rolled turned towards him while rolling my eyes, "The kids and for us."

     Silence and then an exasperated sigh, "FINE," he said before he started praying. (Note: My husband would be happier to pray first thing in the morning or right before bed, instead of feeling me toss and turn until I ask him in the middle of the night).

     I’ve heard it said over the course of my short Christian life, 'A couple that prays together, stays together.' Kind of like the best friends in the "Cletus, Take The Reel" parody by Tim Hawkins...Don't know what I'm talking about, watch the video below. HILARIOUS! 

    But praying is so hard especially as a couple. It is one thing to share your thoughts and feelings, but it is a whole new ball game to open up in prayer. Praying is just as intimate as anything else in the bedroom, it lays bare our souls and reveals our vulnerabilities. But when I do pray with my husband it creates a stronger bond between us. It invites God into our lives and into our marriage, uniting us on the spiritual front.

     Do you pray with your husband, do you ask him to pray for you before you start your day? For me, it's still a new practice, sometimes I feel embarrassed going to my husband and saying, "I'm feeling a little crabby this morning and I have so much to get done. Can you pray that I'm not short tempered with the kids?" 
     It's easy to think, "If I could just control myself and have a better mind set, then I can handle the day just fine." But when I bring my shortcomings to my husband, who then takes it before God; it humbles me and invites both my husband and God into my day. On the days when I do take my requests to my husband, it creates peace out of the chaos. The day is still filled with frustrations, but then I'm reminded that God is with me and He is paving the way to do what He intended that day. It connects me to my husband who thinks about me through out the day and is more tender when he gets home.
     It also reminds me of what I model in front of my children. Elijah is the first to point out that I have a crabby attitude, "Mom you didn't pray this morning with Daddy did you? Maybe we should pray for you on the way to school."

     I hate it when my children point out my mistakes and flaws, but then it blesses me to know they understand the power of prayer. They have no problem telling God when they are angry, what they want and what they worry about. As adults, we lose that childlike faith and forget that God isn't some imaginary thing in the sky that we send our thoughts up to. He is real, lives within our spirits and wants to be able to work through our plans, weaknesses, and dreams. 
     How can He strengthen our marriage and faith if we don't first go to Him? Prayer and marriage go hand in hand and I'm thankful my kids are seeing it through my fumbles and shortcomings.

     Do you pray with your man? If not, what holds you back? The power of praying with your husband breaks through our shortcomings and limitations. It strengthens ours bond and creates intimacy that stands through trials. I encourage you to start out small and go to your husband.

Your New Year Challenge

     It’s that time of the year again. The time in which, we make our New Year resolutions. For most of us, it’s the same list as last year and the year before that. We just need to tweak a few things on the list, but it’s mostly the same. Is yours anything like mine?

• I will start exercising three times a week.
• I will not yell at my children.
• I will control my temper.
• I will run a marathon this year.
•  I will edify my career.
• I will get invited to all the important events in town.
• Blah, blah, blah.

    This year, after struggling so much with my personal goals, on top of my new year’s resolutions, I threw my list out. I’d much rather have one goal that will encompass and spill over into my resolutions, Are you ready for it? It's rather crazy and yet so simple: Go.To.God.First. Then do everything in wisdom to care for my mind, soul, and body.

    “Oh, my, did she really say that?” Yes, little mama—I sure did. I’m pulling the spiritual card and quite frankly, you need it!  We as women tend to exhaust ourselves with all the balls we try to juggle. As we throw each one into the air, we’ve forgotten why we are juggling it as weariness, disappointment, and failure set in; we beat ourselves up wondering why we can’t keep our resolutions. Have you asked yourself why you have this list? Is it a void in your life that you are trying to fill under the disguise of importance, being needed, social status, feeling unloved, feeling insignificant?

    Being a Nebraska girl (transplanted from Wyoming), I know the roots most of us have were saturated in going to Sunday School and learning how Jesus loves us. It was so simple wasn’t it? We would get into our Sunday best, eat snacks, listen to the Bible stories as they were played out on the felt boards. We knew we were loved, significant, and content. As our childhood paved the way into adulthood, we put Jesus in a box, wondering how He fit into the complicated workplace, college, and life in general.

     Now that we are mothers, we see the faith and wholeness our children have, we can’t help but make our New Year Resolutions, thinking if we can discipline ourselves enough, we will find that satisfaction once again. So this year, do something different—Go. To. God.

     A religious fanatic is not needed, just pray. Acknowledge that you’ve lost your way and ask God to be your New Year’s Resolution. Keep Him in mind throughout your day, whether you’re home or in the work place.  Ask God to ingite the childlike faith you used to have.

    Try to create your prayer something like this:

Dear God, I know that I've replaced You for something more tangible. I’ve been searching for significance and success in my career, promotions, committees, being a good hostess at home, being a good mom and so much more. God you created me to have a relationship with You. This year I pray that You fill my life with Your presence. Satisfy the longings in my heart with You. Show me in my everyday life what it means to love You. Help me to recognize the beauty of Your spirit in my life. Unleash Your love within me.

  

If you haven’t walked with God in a while, here are some things to add to your list:

•    Find one thing about each day that reminds you of God as the Creator.
•   Acknowledge God in your life, everyday.
•   Thank Him for one blessing.
•    Ask Him to ignite your heart with a passion for His word.
•     Read one scripture verse each day, if you like to tackle things, try one chapter a day.

      I promise you’ll find the beauty and the wholeness you’ve been longing for as you pursue a relationship with God. It will spill over into all the goals you have. Tell me what your goals are? What do you think of this rather different New Year’s Resolution? Share your thoughts!

How Are You, Really?

 

     I'm tired and don't want to talk to anyone. Yet my daily routine of shuffling kids and women's ministry forces me to interact. So I smile and say, "I'm fine, thank you. How are you?" 

      The truth is, there are very few women, I'm willing to open myself up to, and so begins the manners of being polite and asking, "How are you?" As they tell me about their burdens, I struggle to be present and not check out and I find myself retreating to the inner depths of my soul, discovering that I am already over capacity. 

     My own cup is already full of burdens; stresses of finances, weary of my so-called 'God's Call to Write', concerned with what our future holds in this very town, worried about behaviors my son is presenting, and pushing myself to be ever present for my oldest child in her turbulent teens, combined with Aspergers; but I choose not to talk about it. Very few friends really want to listen and even then, their circumstances are weigh heavily on their minds. It's not that they aren't good listeners, it's because I know they don't have what I need. Weary laden, I drive home, already mentally checking out. 

      In the quiet of my home, I hear Him speak to me, those three same words, we use out of politeness; so I respond knowing that God isn’t overly burdened and weighed down.

           “How are you?”

          “I’m lonely, God.

          “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Mathew 28:20b (NIV).

          “I’m weary, God.”

          “Your soul will find rest in Me alone. I am your salvation. I am your Rock, your fortress, you will not be shaken.” Psalm 62:1-2. (paraphrased, NIV).

          As I pour out, He pours in. I realize that being quiet in His presence is almost a lost art that needs a revival. When we quiet ourselves before Him, He is able to completely fill us in exchange for what is weighing us down. He uses His presence, and His Word to breath life into us, and we need so very much more than we realize.

      Being a mother and woman of God can sometimes weigh us down so deeply with concerns, crisis, worries, needs of our children, demands from others, and expectations of organizations. Without quieting ourselves before God, we become so full, and yet so very empty.

       Our souls were created for the ebb and flow of pouring ourselves out before Him, as He pours life back into us. He touches our hearts, just enough for each day.

          Just enough that we long to come back to Him for more.

          Just enough to recreate a bond that can overcome any feeling, any burden.

          Just enough to teach us the depth of friendship with Him.

          Just enough to create a vibration in our spirits. We become filled with His truth and peace and we can begin the ripple affect of giving His friendship to others when we truly ask, “How are you?”

Family Ties and Celebration

 

     It's not supposed to be like this.

     We aren't supposed to have strained relationships, tension between family members, tight checkbooks, and complicated seating arrangements. We're supposed to be thankful for each person in our family and for every little thing we have. We're supposed to be looking forward to family coming, but we aren't. We're supposed to be accepted for who we are, not for our social or financial status.

     Sound familiar? December, compared to any other month of the year, is when we often presume that God’s joy and peace will flood our hearts and somehow smoother issues we have.  But when the holiday seasons are filled with darkness, we despair.  I was just wrapping up a meeting today, when the women of my group rattled off prayer requests. All revolved around family, and all were sensitive because of the season of holiday blessings we are in.  I know too well how hurtful words, past mistakes, and misguided expectations can make the holidays seem stressful, and in many ways, unmemorable. We feel cheated and wonder if the house across the street is as perfect as it seems.

     Wanted or not, the family we have is the one God has chosen for us. Each heart serves a purpose; and each heart is bonded to another. But sometimes, it's hard to accept the choices each heart makes; it tends to have a ripple effect on every other family member.

     Instead of grieving over the missing pieces to the puzzle of our family life, I thank God for what it is. I thank Him and run to Him because of the way He loves us. He didn't promise picture perfect families or picture perfect memories for that matter. He did promise that we would have trouble; after all, it's a fallen world and this place in time is only temporary until we're able to move on to what He has in store for us on the other side of eternity. In the meantime, I offer you the same words He has spoken to my heart, helping me see the moments for what they are—a moment in time to reflect His love for our family, no matter the situation.

The Lord your God is with you,

He is mighty to save.

He will take great delight in you,

he will quiet you with his love,

he will rejoice over you with singing.

Zephaniah 3:17 (NIV).

Wait, one more link to bring some comfort and perspective for you this holiday season, this song by Tenth Avenue North has brought clarity, comfort, and strength. I pray it speaks to you heart and lifts your spirit! It's titled, Times. 

Cultivating a Thankful Heart 101

     "Now that you've had a chance to sit here and think about why Mama put you in your room, can you tell me about it?" I asked my son quietly, hoping this wouldn't be a challenge with him.

     “I'm in my room because I wouldn't take the cup from Tori.”

Wanting him to dig a little deeper into this lesson, I prodded for more answers.

     “I'm in my room because I didn't show thankfulness to Tori for bringing me water."

TOUCH DOWN! Whew, for a few minutes there, I was really sure this would be another lesson of frustration for us all.

     “Yes you are, that's the reason; whether or not you wanted the water, Tori brought you water because she loves you and wanted to show kindness to you. Yelling at her and slapping the cup away was rude. It hurt her feelings. God wants us to be thankful and kind to our family."

     Cultivating a thankful heart is another one of those 'caught' lessons that is often times difficult to teach our kids. Nipping selfishness in the bud and creating thankfulness with my son has been the biggest challenge this year. Frustrated with this lesson that didn't seem to be resonating with my son, I realized it’s one of those lessons which must be presented to him on a daily basis--and it begins with me!

     What am I doing to create a thankful heart in my children? As I thought about it, I became more aware of my words and actions one afternoon. I realized that all I did in front of my kids was complain when something wasn't going my way and even it things were, I  showing my grateful heart. So what's a mama to do?

      I set to work on showing my thankful heart to my seemingly ungrateful ankle biters. We began each day with a thankful prayer on the way to school. Throughout the day, I would catch my son doing little things like picking up his blocks, playing with his toys, getting his own drink of water; I would jump on these little moments to tell him how thankful I was of his actions. Sometimes I would tackle him with bear hugs just to tell him I was so thankful he was my son.

      In the evenings at supper, we began our meals with 'thankfuls'; each person would state one thing they were thankful for that day. As the months wore on, I began to see the fruits or our efforts in creating gratefulness in our children. I’m so thankful this Thanksgiving season that my children have grateful hearts. They’re grateful for smallest of things, black socks, bath bubbles, hair ties, our dog, Daddy’s smile and so much more. How is it I’ve managed to have forgotten how to be grateful in these little things too? Sometimes teaching our kids lessons, we end up re-teaching our own hearts. 

Deepening the Tide: Prayer Confessions and Sessions

 I don't know about you but I'm one of those gals that doesn't ever really get around to praying except at meal times, church, or it's on going argument of some sort with our Almighty Maker. I have to say that was me until recently. The dynamics of prayer time has changed and so has my heart towards it. First I'd like to say God does hear all of our prayers, every one of them. Secondly prayer time is a way to build your relationship with Jesus who intercedes for us. And thirdly, it awakens the power that was instilled within us when we said yes to our Savior.

    The change in my prayer life happened with the loss of my baby, I wasn't able to sleep, there were so many questions I wanted to ask God. In the midst of another night of insomnia, I muttered that I didn't understand His reasons for allowing it to happen. That's when I heard ever so faintly, "Why is it that only in a crisis do I really hear your thoughts?"

OUCH! "Wait a minute, I talk to you all the time, what about when I'm working out, doing dishes, for heaven sakes, what about all those extra minutes in the shower?"

     "Do you ever take the time to hear me respond?"

      "What about my ministry and those prayers?"

     "Do you know My heart for you?"

     "Okay You got me there, because I totally don't get this!"

     "Meet Me in the morning."

      "What are you talking about? I don't have time in the mornings!"

      "For My Word says, Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love that we may sing and be glad all our days." (Psalm 90:14).

    With that scripture verse, I also received an impression of Jesus sitting downstairs on my couch with my cup of coffee, waiting for me to descend to tell Him my joys, fears, who I want Him to intercede for and just wanting to know my thoughts. With this conversation and impression, I begrudgingly began testing this theory and I cannot begin to tell you what He has awakened within me.

    Though this trial has been fairly recent, the differences are night and day. While you may not be in the same place as me in terms getting up early, or maybe you're aren't quite ready to make a big commitment like this, but it is so worth the lost hours of sleep.The relationship between me and my Jesus is so much more that what it was. I encourage you to ask God where He wants to take you.

Revelations Of A Mama Prayer Slacker

     I bet the word 'confessions' caught your eye so you decided to read a little further. Sorry sister, nothing juicy or too exciting here unless you count how the enemy is plotting against me. By enemy, that generally means Satan or the kids, but in this case, Satan!
    The enemy is constantly dogging my conscience about what a better christian I should be. He is especially good at making me feel like a failure at setting that example for my kids. I must confess that my prayer life ebbs and flows with my daily existence, and yet I strive to constantly be in prayer and mindful of God speaking to me. Where I fail is thinking I need to be busy with Bible studies, sitting on church committees, and leading women. What I do not understand is why I seem to think those things are priorities. Can you find anything in the Bible that says any of that busyness will satisfy God's desires for me? If you do, please call me! You and I both know it's much more simplified than that.
    It's about communication, and an open heart...It's about prayer. Prayer is communicating your heart, thoughts, desires, dreams, failures, and worries to God. It opens the line of communications directly to your spirit. Without prayer, we cannot be sure of what God wants from us or for us. If you're like me, you'll open your Bible, but nothing makes sense. You'll bumble about your day feeling satisfied because your spirit hasn't connected with God.
   Here's a few tips that you can not only incorporate into your daily life but into the lives of your kiddos too.

1. Set up a pray alter. Purchase scripture cards and a small notebook, each more pull a card out, read the verse and write out your prayers in the notebook. Instruct your whole family to do the same. Before you leave for work or as you go about your day, you can refer back to the prayers of your family.
• If you have little ones, simplify your prayer/scripture time. For example, our kids memorized Philippians 1:6 last week. The verse reads, "Now being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Jesus Christ." Our kids memorized it as "God is working in me."
2. Take small business sized note cards with you full of scriptures and prayers, set them about your home. As your eye reads them, send up a prayer to God on what that scripture prompts you.
3. Have an accountability partner. Meet or call a friend once a week to prayer for each other and help each other strive to pray daily. 

Are you a prayer warrior? Leave a comment with how you incorporate prayer in your daily life? Have kids? What do you do to teach them the importance of prayer?

Heart of The Home Challenge--Finding Joy...Even at 1:30 in the Morning.

 In case you haven't been following along these last few weeks, I have challenged my readers to memorize scripture every week of 2011 as part of your new years resolutions. This week we are focusing on Romans 15:3. "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." 

 I wasn't full of joy, nor was I hopeful about anything at 1:30 this morning. My son had wet the bed and that meant, showering him off, stripping the bed, and making the bed, drying off my son, and finally putting that bugger back to bed. When I awoke this morning, I was tired and dreaded rolling out of bed for the day. Lack of sleep causes my perceptions to be negative and you know the saying, "If mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy." 

     As I laid in bed, having a bad case of the "Mondays", this scripture popped up on my phone. Bad attitudes, negative perceptions are anything but what God designed us for.Instead we are to put all our hope in Him. The more we hope, the more joy fills our hearts until it's overflowing. The key trusting in God that He has our best interests at heart, even at 1:30 in the morning! 

God's Way Or My Way

What dreams have do you have in your heart? Have you been chasing after them and wondering where God is in the big picture? I've been asking the same questions myself lately over a dream that I've had. This month was supposed to be the month for it to happen. So when the answer to my heart's desire was "No," I had to question the answer, and then question God. When God doesn't answer your prayers, it's because He has something else in mind for you. Stop for a moment and look around you. Ask what is He doing in your life, then ask Him to be a part of it. The gifts He's given you and the talents He's created in you are for His purpose and plans. Through His ways, He will full-fill your desires and dreams. It takes faith, obedience, acceptance, and asking to be a part of His plans. 

"My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,' says the Lord.

'For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways,

And My thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9.

God is Moving.

Test me in this," says the Lord Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it." Malachi 3:10

    How have you tested God? Have you laid your hurts, worries, joys, and dreams in His hands? I Have. These last few weeks I have felt Him nudging me to lay my dreams of writing, speaking to women, teens, and of course my finances on His alter. The return has been indescribable, the joy my heart feels has spilled over into aspect of my life. I wake up and my heart is singing to Him. Relationships that were damaged have been restored. Feeling at home in my home church has taken on a new meaning. My dreams of being an author are unfolding as I type. Ministering to women is budding day by day. And finally God has more than abundantly blessed our finances in terms of being able to afford a newer vehicle. We still don't make much but all our needs are being cared for in ways I had always hoped. These are just a few things I wanted to share and when I'm able to process it more fully, I will share in detail. 

    If you're worried about where money for a bill is going to come from, lay it before God. If you are worried about your teen and life altering mistakes or decisions they've made, lay it in front of Him. If you have a dream that's bubbling up from the bottom of your heart, give it to Him. Stay faithful, be patient, praise Him, and wait! Give it over to Him, allow His faithfulness, His love, and His power give your dreams and needs soil to take root. Your trust will water the soil, and His power will cause it to bloom. 

Gratitude Is The Attitude that Sets the Altitude for Living....

          Going on day two of 'adjusting my attitude' with the bible study from James MacDonald (Lord, Change My Attitude). During class today, he said something profound that hit my heart like a missile looking for its target. "Gratitude is the attitude that sets the altitude for living," try saying that three times fast. Better yet, get alone with God and think about this phrase. We have much to be thankful for, even it's just our very life itself. Though it may not be much, I would rather be thankful for my life than complain over every little thing that hasn't gone my way.
            How many times have I been ungrateful or have I complained about stupid stuff. Here's a few examples, I don't have a flat screen, I don't have Buckle jeans, I wish my kids were more behaved. I hate driving my dented mini van,  I hate the time frame I have in which to shuttle kids for preschool. I wish I had breast implants (vanity issue, I know!), Why can't it be warmer out? I wish groceries weren't so expensive, why can't my laundry fold itself, does my friend have to gossip about everything?

         Now that you know my flaws, please don't hold them against me! I have more serious complaints but I choose not to put those on here for my sanity sake. However when I choose to have this type of attitude, I forget about God's blessings and how His hand has always guided my life, even in the small every day things of being at home. So I propose this for all of you wanting to change your attitude and wanting to remember what God has done for you.

      Create a Blessings Jar. Take an old oatmeal can or something fancier to fit your decor. Next as a family, talk about attitudes; "Gratitude is the attitude that sets the altitude for living." Each time that God has provided for your needs, great or small, it's something to be thankful for. So on a slip of paper, write the date and the moment. Not only will it teach your children a heart of thankfulness, it will serve as a reminder just how big our God is, and how much He moves in your daily life. You can pull them out in moments you are feeling discouraged and will serve as memories for both you and your kids.

Let me know how your project went with the family. Post your comments please.

Daddy's Girl

One of my deepest desires was to have a Dad. I had a Dad, but because of his issues and addictions, I haven't seen much of him since I was 12. He came to see me at graduation, then I visited him in Arizona when I was 22, and then I saw him again a few years ago for my sisters wedding. Each visit was less than an hour spent with him because of his drinking issues. However things are now different! There is much to be thankful for during the season of Thanksgiving. One of my prayers for many years has been that God would restore and redeem my family. Although there are a few strained relationships, God has answered the deepest desires of my heart. For the first time since I was 12, I get to spend time with my Dad. Not only do I get to spend time with him, I get to be Daddy's girl.


This prayer has been answered because my father surrendered to God and allowed Christ to be the center of his heart. Gone are the days of addictions and self centered. It's be replaced by a passionate fire for our Almighty God. My brother and I picked up my Dad from the airport last night. As nervous as I was, there was peace. Peace because I knew that my Dad had changed. Peace because I knew I wouldn't have to walk on eggshells. Peace because our time won't be ruined with the need of alcohol or other recreational drugs.

It may seem small or insignificant to those of you who have fathers or don't have a desire for the love of your family; for me it's one of the greatest gifts of all time that both my Father God and my Dad can give me. Finally at the age of 29, I get to begin a relationship with my Dad. Together we get to share moments with my children and my kids get to call him Grandpa... So let the season of thanksgiving begin! With these thoughts, I leave you with one of my favorite songs that encompasses prayer and lifts your mood!

Thirsty?

   

         These last few months I have been hanging on by a thread to get through the daily domestic duties of mommy hood and life itself. The very idea of grocery shopping or playing with my kids wore me out. Tired and irritable were the words that described how I felt. Within an hour of being at the Women's Weekend Retreat, I was able to put a finger on it. I was spiritually burned out.
          While I was there God impressed on me through workshops, prayer, worship, I was running on empty. Empty as in this clay jar was cracked and couldn't hold any water. I enjoyed being in the presence of God and didn't this joy and sense of being poured into to leave me. So why was I so dry? I hadn't taken the time to fill my cup. Sure I read my bible, went to church, and sent up a few 'Help me' prayers; but that left me dry. Without posturing myself to hear from God and actually spending time with Him, what can I expect? So this week I tested my theory. Each day when I laid the kids down for nap (asleep or not), I got my journal and got alone with God. The outcome was a much happier, less irritable Mommy.

Raising Soldiers

   Here is a sample of what I've been working on. I decided to post this because I feel the need to rally the troops.

     There is a war brewing in America. The battle lines are being drawn and it’s starting in our schools. The primary targets are the minds of our children. We can no longer freely say ‘One nation under God.’ Children are discouraged from praying during lunch. Symbols of their faith are considered contraband because it may be offensive to others. Laws are being passed under discrimination that the public schools are to teach our children we should accept and tolerate homosexual relationships. Books are available in their libraries that teach God as some imaginary being like Santa Claus.


     There are many aspects and battle fronts to this war but the primary war is between Christianity and Secular Humanism. Secular humanism is a religion and philosophy of life which views man as the supreme being of the world. God and all the supernatural ‘stuff’ is mere fluff. It sees moral values as relative and varying from person to person. It sees these morals are personable until that person decides to change it, so long as it doesn’t hurt anybody else. We live in a day and age where double standards are acceptable and religion is considered intolerant.

     For several weeks my husband and I went back and forth over pulling our oldest daughter out of public school and putting her into Faith Christian School. Our main worry was whether or not we could afford it. We were concerned that some of the aspects Cheyenne was being taught to tolerate; and the current bills for laws that were currently sitting before the senate that dictate what should be taught in public schools. Our decision became clear after the principle of her school ignored the bullying that happened on the last day of school and his ‘good old boys club’ attitude in respect to disciplining the kids that were bullying her. After Obama became president and the lines between Christ and secular society were blown wide open, we didn’t regret our decision.

     Instead we breathed a sigh of relief. Though our faith is strong we are still new in Christ and feel that she needed a stronger foundation in her faith than what we can give her. Her new school does just that. It sparks conversations and leads us to debates with our Bibles in hand. As she encounters Christ’s word, it is building up her faith and reinforcing her armor she puts on daily as she walks out the door. The school is teaching her who Christ created her to be and is encouraging her giftings (and school isn't one of them). It has raised the standard in our home, and that standard is to live for Christ. In the Bible the word standard was translated in many texts to mean banner. A banner is just that, a standard. In the ancient of days, banners were carved on wood and metals that represented a clan or nations ideals’. This banner or flag could be seen from a distance and was often a rallying point for troops just before battle. It was raised high during critical times in the battle to boost the soldier’s moral, to help them find their strength and remind them what they were fighting for. My dear little mama, it’s all coming down to the final wire, the final battle. In these last of days, you and I both need to decide how we are going to raise our children. If I’m not mistaken, you love Christ and the choice is clear. It’s time to raise our banners high so others can see that we serve Christ. We serve a God who does not tolerate double standards and will not make light of how society has debunked Him and His kingdom. It's time as parents to no longer tolerate what society is deeming as acceptable. Listen to the music your children listen to. If it tugs at your gut, throw it out. Make a stand to not allow some questionable movies be viewed in your home. Draw the line between acceptable friendships and not so acceptable friendships. Moniter what your child is being taught in school. You may live in a rural town in America, but you will be suprised what is being taught, even in the Bible belt of the U.S. Take a stand and raise your standards so your children will know what to strive for.

     It may seem like we are losing this battle and that may be so in terms of being able to pray and worship freely. However don’t forget what Yahweh Nissi means. Yahweh Nissi means The Lord is My Banner. Moses built an alter and called our Heavenly Father our banner after victory over the Amalekites. It was their first battle after being freed from Egypt. When you pray and call on Yahweh Nissi, you are calling on a God that is powerful enough to overcome any foe and that includes the enemy who disguises himself as secular humanism.

     Though the battle is great and our soldiers are going into battle as young as two; our father God is shinning His light over our children. Start teaching your children how to put on their armor and pray for their safety each day before they go off to play or head off to school. Finally let your banner be raised high so it can be seen from a distance as an encouragement to those who are fighting in this battle with us.

1.Putting on the full armor of God is a tedious but necessary process. So here is the scripture listed below and then an example of how to teach your children to pray.



The Armor of God

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints (Ephesians 6:13-18 NIV).





How to Put On the Armor of God

Father God, we thank You for today and we ask that You watch over us as we go about our day. Help me to put on my armor so that I am protected, and can stand up in the battle. First I pray that You help me protect my mind with the Helmet of Salvation, help me to make right decisions. Next I pray that you protect my heart with the Breast Plate of Righteousness and I ask forgiveness for my sins. Help me to obey you. Next I pray that You help me remember that You are truth as I put on The Belt of Truth. It will help remind me of all that I know about You. Also I pray that as I put on my Sandals of Peace that You guide my feet to where they should go. Help me to carry my Shield of Faith as it will help protect me from doubt and to keep the enemy away. Last I pray You help me carry the Sword of the Spirit which is Your word. Use it to guide my way today. In Jesus’ name amen.