He asked me, "Do you really think 45 minutes is going to wipe away all the hours of this past week?"

 Ahhh, Sunday morning, everyone rushes to put on a happy face and walk across the parking lot to greet friends and grab a welcoming hug.  Visitors look on wondering if this is really how it is...these people are actually glad to be here?  Encouraging words shared and pleasantries exchanged while friends quickly shove down the frowns that lined their faces moments prior.  We all put on a good face in front of others.  Christians, old and new, have mastered the art of presenting that all is great and church is the best place to be.  Is it really?

As we walked into Sunday school, a friend made a comment about hurrying to get to class which prompted Ted to ask me this question.  "Do you really think 45 minutes is going to wipe away all the hours of this past week?"  It made me stop because I wasn't sure what he was saying and if he was saying it to me or to someone else.  "What!?"  Again, he asked the question and added how silly we are to rush about like we are earning God's favor on Sunday morning when we have ignored God the entire week as we surfed through social media filling our minds with the influencers and junk of the day and got slammed with the filth of this world filling our hearts and minds. 

Ouch!  It stings a little when put in those terms, especially as we are on our way into the church building.  Seems a little harsh when those thoughts or pictures of what the Christian life is to look like are put into spoken words.  No one would ever say out loud, well, almost no one!  My husband has a way of saying things that stop me dead in my tracks.  I felt a little bristly at the timing of it all, but he is not wrong!

 We are nice and polite and proper to put on the mask of a good, respectable person while God calls us "whited sepulchers full of dead mens bones", but we all made it to church!  Why go through the motions?  Because people are watching the outward actions...but God sees our hearts.   Whoops, always seem to forget that part!  Why do you go to church?  To feel better?  To check the box?  

We walked into the class and settled in with our niceties and the Sunday school lesson started.  Then came the morning message, both the SS teacher and Pastor hit the same idea.  I marvel at how God works through all circumstances.  I've been meditating on the thoughts ever since.

Actually, we do feel better when we worship with God's people.  But it is so much more meaningful and helpful when we have spent time with God all week in our private times of Bible reading, meditation on what we are reading, and in prayer.  My relationship with God isn't just a Sunday checklist thing!  I need to seek His face every day.  I "Look to the Lord" for the needs I have in life.  The influencers of today come and go.  Their opinions and helpful tips change with the seasons.  My "Strength for the day comes from the Lord" when we seek His face and ask for His wisdom.  Am I seeking God all week long?  Or just on Sundays?  A 45 minute lesson and message are not enough to counteract the hours in the week that I spend doing everything else.

Micah 6:8

"He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?"
 
We had the opportunity to fill in for the teen SS class a couple weeks ago, and I taught the group this verse in the form of a song.  I used to teach it every year to my school class.  Ted started out the lesson based on some interaction with the teens.  While he spoke and the teens responded, God brought this song to mind.  Every plan that Ted had written on paper changed in those first few minutes.  I watched my husband share his heart once again...and he connected with the group!  My eyes filled with tears as I heard the teens open their hearts to a man who knows the path that some of them walk.  "God brings things into our lives to teach us many different things.  You will learn something different than what I learned.  When we learn those lessons, we are then to take what we have learned and help others...you can't do that if you are angry and bitter...you must submit to the will of your Father."
When we learn from our Father, He expects us to live differently.  He expects us to show love and mercy to others.  He expects us to walk with Him...submitting daily to what He has for us to learn!  It sounds so simple...yet we struggle so violently against Him.  He has taken the guess work out of the equation!  God tells us in His Word that He has showed us what is good...why do we settle for the bad, the "it's not that bad", or "it's close...it will be good enough"?

Whoops...I was thinking again...

especially after reading Proverbs 21:21, "He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour."  When I follow after righteousness and mercy, I will find God's blessings.  A result from this...I will want to see others have the same.  How do I express that desire to others?  I can pray for them.  I can show them in my actions.  I can tell them.  Do I even try to express those things to others?  Do I even care?  I can do certain things and then totally destroy with the words I speak...and vice versa...I can say certain things and then destroy with my actions. 
The damage of both is great!  
I started thinking about some of my conversations in the last few days...What am I saying to people? What are we talking about?  What do I say just in passing?  Am I discreet in my conversations or do I babble and blab in a manner so that everyone around me hears? 
Do I discourage those with whom I speak? 
I've been thinking about a few of the discouraging things that have been said to me or to those that I love.  The words have made an impact that have nothing to do with right, mercy, love, grace, and truth.   
When we get ready to spout off or interject something into a conversation, we really need to stop and think.  Will I be administering grace to those that hear me?  Colossians 4:6  Would Christ speak these words?  Would I be bold enough to say the same words to Him?  Is what I am going to say edifying? Profitable? Helpful? Kind?  Ephesians 4:32
We are surrounded by people who think differently and are at different stages of life.  Christ was amongst various people groups too...yet He always spoke the truth boldly and in love...without sin.  His motives were pure and served His Father's purpose.  I submit that the words that have brought discouragement to me were out of selfish motives and purposes.   I understand that we all have different perspectives, opinions, and experiences.  But I do know that we all have something more we can learn...older and younger.  If we "have been around for awhile" and are God's children...we have much to learn about speaking discouraging words to those younger and still growing spiritually.  We are all at various stages in our Christian walk. 
Titus 2:4   There are those who may have walked where we will walk and those who have many years to their name, yet are spiritually immature and should be challenged to think God's Word. 
I Timothy 4:12

Proverbs 8:5
Romans 16:18-19
No matter where we fall in our years and maturity...we are responsible and will be held accountable for the discouraging words we speak.  
"Just because" or "we don't do things like that" or "we have always done this" or "you may think that is a great man" or "well, that is your opinion" or "that is their philosophy, not ours" or "it hasn't worked in the past" or "I don't agree with that"or constant complaining and disagreement...ARE NOT  reasons to give those who are still learning and growing!   
How many people are being discouraged in the work of the Lord...because of our spiritual immaturity? unbiblical thinking? lazy excuses? stubborn hearts? undisciplined tongues?
It is more than you actually want to think...or admit to!  Next time you ask the question, "Where is everyone?  Why is nobody here?"  Honestly, with many of the words, actions, and attitudes why would anyone want what we supposedly say we have?
Consider your words, actions, and attitudes...it just might be our fault!

A study on the lies women believe...

and what we believe about God...will be shown to everyone around us in how we live.

It is easy to say we believe certain things...but how do you live?

It is the subtle and distorted lies that seem to catch us...

because we are "too smart to get caught up in an all-out lie"...

or so we think!

John 8:31-32

"Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on Him, If ye continue in My word, then are ye my disciples indeed;  And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

It struck me..."If ye continue..."

It is more than reading. 

It is more than saying that you believe. 

The dictionary definition of continue (verb)...1. to go on with a particular action or in a particular condition; persist.  2. to exist over a prolonged period; last.  3. to remain in the same state, capacity, or place.  4. to go on after an interruption; resume.

It is actively doing something.

"...in My word..."

We will either continue in our wicked, sinful patterns of our old nature,

or we have put on the new man.  There should be a drastic difference!  Colossians 3

Once we know the truth...we must do something with it!

We can't ignore it...and we will be held accountable for what we have heard.

Christ has made us free...but so often we live in the bondage of satan's lies...giving up that freedom.

Why can't we seem to separate the two?

My heart hurts when wrong decisions are made.  We all make them.  The problem is that there are consequences to each decision we make.  So many others are affected by decisions that are made...or not made. We don't get to choose the consequences. 
We make decisions because we don't want to offend those closest to us and end up discouraging those around us.  We get all mixed up in our thinking because our emotions cloud our judgment as we make decisions.  I sit back and watch decisions that are made in my life and in the lives of others...which then affect the lives of others...we are sacrificing what is right for what is comfortable for us.  We need to go back to the basic, simple thoughts found in this song.

"Do Right"


From the very start, have pur­pose in your heart


To do what’s right and never ques­tion why.


Never count the cost, though every­thing seems lost;


The price for doing right is some­times high


Right is always right, and wrong is always wrong,


And we must learn to sep­a­rate the two!

If you love the right, the Lord will give you light;


So seek the right in every­thing you do!

Do right till the stars fall, do right till the last call


Do right when there’s no one else to stand by you!


Do right when you’re all alone, do right though it’s never known.


Do right since you love the Lord — do right, do right!

I have plans to plant some seeds.

I bought a couple packets at the store the other day.  I am still deciding if I want to give a go at some garden type boxes to grow vegetables.  I see plans and pictures and like the idea, but haven't decided if I want to put forth the effort or cost to end up feeding the neighborhood squirrels.  Chevy already ate two of the little green strawberries that had grown of the lonely plants.  Then there is the fact of snake sightings this week.  I have put a minimal amount of thought into this since I have had other things on my mind.  Today in junior church, Ted talked about the petunias I planted this week...how they started out as seeds.  The seeds were planted in the soil and then had to be watered everyday.  He asked the children,

"What kind of seeds are you planting in your heart?"  I thought about these seed packets. 

I thought about the different "seeds" that fall on my heart every day. 

Fear, doubt, discouragement, worry, anger, bitterness, frustration... 

Some are bad...sinful! 

Peace, contentment, joy, kindness, gentleness, thankfulness, love...

Some are good...fruits of the Spirit!

It got me to thinking...what seeds am I cultivating and watering? 

What our children truly need from us...doesn't cost a dime!

We sat watching our children. 
We see how they have grown. 
We see how they act and react to situations around them. 
We hear their responses to different circumstances. 
We recall the many times of reproof and correction, knowing there are many more to come. 
We hear what they talk about with each other. 
We know we are on the right track, because Satan is working over-time these days.  And then we hear message after message that confirms in our hearts and minds that there is something more important than any thing we can give our children. 
"We want our children to have so much more." 
I hear those words and fear rises in my throat, and I want to ask the question, "Are you ready for what it will cost you?"  I am not a kid anymore.  I have a few years on me now.  I have seen some of the outcomes of this line of thinking.  I have seen and heard the heartbreak that was involved, and I wonder...if parents could now go back...knowing what they know now...would they have chosen a different way?
III John 1:4
We are all mixed up in our thinking, and the ones who are paying dearly are our children.  They have the latest and greatest toys and movies, but know nothing about how God wants them to live.  They can operate any technological device, but don't know where to find Proverbs in their Bible.  Often, they can't even find their Bible.  They can quote line after line from movies they watch, but they can't recall a single memory verse.  They can sing every commercial jingle and movie lyric, but look at the church teacher cross-ways when we sing spiritual songs.
So-called Christian parents are raising a generation that will do what they want, when they want, where they want, how they want, totally disregarding what God wants. 
I John 5
They have everything the world offers.  Their rooms, closets, and toy boxes are filled with every imaginable thing that "will make them happy" till the next talked about fad.  We have filled their line of vision with so much stuff, our children can't see and think straight.  As parents, we are sometimes frustrated and embarrassed by their behavior.  Yet, we simply won't follow and do what God says is the best.  He gave a simple plan with simple, straight-forward directions.   Satan plants the seed of doubt and question, and we listen and fall into the same trap that Eve and Adam did.  Satan laid the foundation for this world's system.   And once again the creature is questioning the Creator! 
Moms, we question and fight with our spouses, because we think we know better "because of how we feel about this and that".  Our feelings change with our moods and our husbands get tired of fighting, give up, and give in.  Satan knows that if he can get Mom where he wants her, the stage is set once again.  It worked with Eve, and it will work again and again.  It is interesting...the weaker vessel is the woman...the first person Satan attacks in the family...the wife/mother.  Our first struggle is with contentment.  Some of the first people that see that struggle and  who are affected by it...our children...because they are usually the ones that are around us the most!  We have then taught them...by our example.   What leads us to make wrong choices...the lack of contentment!
Satan has clouded our judgment with all the noisy advice of this world.  We have left our Bibles on the shelf by the back door or under the backseat of the car.  God created the family to accomplish His purpose.  He gave us the manual with all the answers, and most of us never open it.  We read everything else, listen to Oprah, and search the internet to self-diagnose. 
We have complicated our lives!  God never intended for us to operate this way.  Satan has distorted God's perfect plan.  We have quadrupled the cost of the average family's needs because we can't say, "No!" to our selfish desires.  We question the fact that God really does know what is best for us...maybe not with our exact words...but definitely by our actions!
What our children truly need from us, doesn't cost a dime!  The one thing that all of us have been given is time.  24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for approximately 18 years.  The problem...we satisfy our selfish, sinful nature and we squander our time on things that won't matter for eternity.  The only things we can take into eternity...our children!
How have you spent your time...
teaching your children about God and what He expects,
talking and listening to their concerns and questions about real life issues, 
applying God's Words to specific needs and fears,
memorizing verses that they can recall in times of trouble, 
singing praises for what He has done,
getting your family to Sunday School/church/kid's activities that will build them up,
reading God's Word each day to equip them for the temptations of the day,
and praying for needs/concerns? 

I can't think of anything more that I want for our children!  When Satan comes to tempt and lure God's children away from the right path...all the stuff that we dedicated our time and energy into getting for our children...won't be worth one cent!
Tell me...what cost are you willing pay?

What is wrong with me?

"What's wrong with you?" is usually the question we ask when we notice there is something just not right.  It might be a symptom of illness that prompts us to ask that question.  It may be a facial expression that demonstrates a problem.  It could be actions that move us to ask, "What's wrong with you?"  Sometimes we ask in genuine concern...others times...we ask in disgust.  There is always a reason for asking the question...a problem has made itself known.
I find myself asking myself this question more frequently these days.  I don't know if it is my age.  I don't know if it is where we are in life.  I don't know if it is due to what we are dealing with with our children. 
I do know many of the events of my (our) life have had a strong impact in my thinking and handling the issues of life.  I also know, as I study and read God's Word and as each day passes, there is a problem. 
I guess, I am the one with the problem, and so I ask again, "What is wrong with me?"
There are so many accepted thoughts, attitudes, and actions these days that I just can't follow.  God's Word is not allowing me to do it.  But yet, as I look around and see what is going on, so many others are jumping on the various band wagons of thoughts, attitudes, and actions.  The older I get, I find myself doing the opposite of what so many of my church, school, and college acquaintances are doing...I'm getting narrower in what I understand and accept as what is pleasing to God. 
What is wrong with me that I can't accept "the new ways" too? 
I guess the "push over the edge" this week was the arrival of another catalog full of "the latest and greatest music to worship God with".  I sat and read through the choices.  I looked at the pictures.  I considered the questions we have been asked by the children (and our children).  I recalled all the groups that are shared on facebook lists and played on blogspots. 
"What's wrong with me that I can see what satan is doing to us and I just won't accept this as 'new and improved Christianity'?" 
The best voted groups want us to "kick it old school".  What?  I can't shake the memory of the looks on the faces of our children is Kid's Club as they made the connection of what satan's job in heaven was...the highest of all God's created angels.  "He was God's right hand man.  But he had wrong thoughts...attitudes...actions."  When his heart was lifted up and he thought he could become God...removing his Creator, he went from being Lucifer (Light Bearer) to Satan (The Adversary).  Ezekiel 28  And he has been ruling as the "god of this world" ever since, "blinding the minds of those who believe not".  2 Corinthians 4:4.  Ephesians 2. I John 5
Why aren't we being diligent to guard ourselves against the deceptions of Satan?  As believers, we are new creations and we have the armor of God available to us.  Ephesians 6
We know how it will end.  Revelation 12
God has told us that Satan is a deceiver and will be judged. Isaiah 14:12-15
Satan has demonstrated his tactics over and over.  Genesis 3 in the garden, Job 1 testing Job, and the list continues.  He uses his tried and true methods every time I John 2:16. 
In Matthew 4, he tempted Jesus without success.  We have an example to follow.
After reading and studying some more, I understand even more about the vengence that Satan is using.  He took a whole army of angels when God removed him from Heaven, and he isn't going to leave earth without a bigger army.  I don't want to be deceived.  I won't be deceived...if I continue to fill my mind with truth.
That's what is wrong with me...I'd rather bring glory to the One who created me...saved me...and is preparing a place for me!
Can I ask...what's wrong with you?

"Where the rubber meets the road..."

We heard this comment recently regarding the feel good emotions one may have after spending time in God's house...seeing and hearing all the wonderful things that God is doing in lives.  In the very next breath, the same person commented about casting their vote for the next American Idol star. 
Huh? 
What?
Which comment is the rubber and what road are you traveling on?
I'm confused.
Tonight for our Kid's Club lesson, we reviewed five of the verses that we learned this year. 
Why have we spent the time memorizing God's Word? 
Psalm 119:9-11  "Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way?  by taking heed thereto according to thy word.  With my whole heart have I sought thee:  O let me not wander from thy commandments.  Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee."
Mr. Ted explained the purpose for learning God's Word and hiding it in our heart.  In our daily life...we  make many choices.  In our choices, we will either bring glory to God or glory to satan.  God's Word gives us the wisdom to make right choices...friends, music, activities, tv...
John 3:16
James 4:7
Proverbs 1:5
James 4:17
Where the rubber meets the road...how are you responding to the truth of God's Word in your day to day life?  Satan is working hard and he has been able to accomplish much with the music of the day...and believers have followed his vices because they do not take heed to God's Word.  We think it is harmless to watch and vote for the Idol.  "It is just harmless fun."  And you think that the music, lifestyles, dress, actions, and agendas are all in fun?  The word "idol" doesn't even phase you?  Really?
In order to heed something...you need to read...and understand what you read.  We don't always have our Bibles with us...how can you heed God's Word then?  By hiding it in your heart!
We dealt with spiritual immaturity that comes with childhood tonight.  But later, I was taken by surprise at the lack of spiritual maturity of believers in their adulthood.
"I thought music was just for fun." stated one of our girls in Kid's Club.  "If satan is so smart, why did he get thrown out of heaven?  Is there a pizza party next week?  Where exactly is hell? I'm just wondering, because someone told me it was in the center of the earth."
...and yes, our heads were spinning after this rapidly fired exchange.  Excuse me for not thinking that all of this is "just for fun".  We have little girls and boys who are struggling with truth and trying to decide if hell is going to be as bad as the Bible describes...while Christians embrace "the fun of this world".  It is frightening to me.  Another verse from this year...Luke 16:13  "NO SERVANT CAN SERVE TWO MASTERS..."
We came home, kicked back our chairs, and tried to comprehend the seriousness of what these children are dealing with each day.  We checked email and facebook...and I am still reeling from what I read.  Just two choices on the shelf...pleasing God or pleasing self (or satan...actually). 
Is music just for fun? 
Honestly?
Where the rubber meets the road...could better be summed up by...
Your walk talks...and your talk talks...BUT your walk talks louder than your talk talks! 
It's too bad that these days, we post our talk about our walk all over the internet for the world...and the Lord...to see. 
Did you ever stop to think... what your talk, about your walk, actually sounds like...to God?

While standing at the bathroom sink

The best place for thinking, meditating, and praying for me is often when my hands are busy...in the busiest room, the kitchen or better yet... in the smallest room of the house...the bathroom!   Probably because I can close the door to be truly alone!  I've been known to go in there and just sit on the side of the tub for a few minutes.  Today was a day of no interruptions...and that was nice.

I soon found myself lost in thought as I was "fixing my face" and hair.  I cleaned the sink and straightened the shelf.  I noticed all the "big girl" stuff that is accumulating in the bathroom.  I saw the new washcloths I purchased.  My mom will be so proud!  After...12...(wow!) years of marriage, it is time to move some of the washcloths to the rag bin.  It's ok to do that...especially if you are trying to encourage your daughters to use "big girl" facial products.  Bright, new washcloths make that new responsibility...fun!  Our children are changing and growing.  It is a good thing!  That is what is supposed to happen.

Change

It hit me again.

Change is a good thing!

As wives and mothers, we are constantly changing things...well, we should be!  Worn out, stained, broken things need to be thrown out!  If something doesn't work...get rid of it!  If it does not serve its intended purpose...it is time to re-evaluate!  Change it! 

We buy new toothbrushes, make-up, jewlry, nail polish, shoes, home decorations, clothing, kitchen gadgets, hobby helps (I just bought pinking shears!), power tools, patio furniture, grill tools, tires, furniture, and hairstyles (also a recent change for me).  If we haven't done any of those things in...say...12 years...shame on us!  With children in the house...change is a constant verb in our language..."Did you change your....?"

Well...it is a very necessary change that must be handled.

There is no virtue in holding on to old, out-dated, broken junk!

There is no virtue to keep doing the same thing over and over with no results! 

It is easy to see that when you look at others...or watch that tv show about hoarding. 

Good grief!  "I'm not like that!" I respond in relief.

Or am I?

Here is another silly illustation that started this whole thought process this morning...

I think about how long I waited to get my hair cut again. 

It was easier when it was longer...throw it up in a clip and I was good to go. 

  As I dried, gelled, and curled my hair...I acknowledged the fact that I didn't want to put the extra effort into fussing with my hair.  I was afraid it would take too long to do. Was that just laziness?  Or was that fear?  Hmmm?!?

Change isn't bad!  It is just different!

I have heard this from many people's mouths over the last couple months.  Honestly, I don't spend that much more time on my hair.  It takes less time to dry and a little more time to curl...if at all.  What was I so concerned about?  How it would affect me and my time!

Isn't it funny how differently we view change?!  It all depends upon what needs to be changed! 

We often don't like change because it will take us out of our comfort zone.  Change shakes up "how things have always been" and makes us think...which makes us actually face the fact that there could be a better way!  In our churches, we count it a virtue to have not changed something for the last 50 years, or 12 years, or even 5 years.  But in our homes...we wouldn't be caught dead with last seasons drapes or shoes. 

I don't understand! 

We won't change the plan of how we do things in our church ministries, but we make sure Mother's Day dinner will be held at Aunt Ethel's this year because Easter was at Uncle Mervin's.  We know that this church to do list or policy covered every needful thing in 1982, but we made sure to rewrite this year's garden plans and our life insurance policy so it is all up to date for our family.

It makes no sense!  (I am not talking about faith and doctrinal change. 

I am talking guardedly about practice or methods change.)

What I am missing!? 

My mind goes back to John 15.  

We should not be eating fruit from 50 years ago...but we should be cultivating the same fields that were planted 50 years ago.  There are new branches to be cared for that they may bring forth fruit.

 There are some really helpful tools that can be used.  Those who care for vineyards and orchards now...have different tools and ways to do the same things that have always been done.

It is 2011...there are some things that are dead, worn out, stained, or broken.

Read Romans 12...ALL OF IT!

How can we "prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." if we don't renew our minds?  What type of service is that to God?  God gives us grace.  He gives us the ability to use our minds to think.  He has blessed us with many different members in this body of believers called the church.  He gives us different gifts.  "Not slothful (lazy) in business; fervent (showing great warmth, intensity of spirit, zealous) in spirit; serving (giving aid, assist, help) the Lord;"  How can you do God's work in the right way with something that is dead, worn out, stained, and broken?  What type of testimony is that to others?

If you make changes in your job, home, and personal life...every day, week, month, year...

why would you not do the same in any and every ministry you are involved?  

  I wonder why we view change in some areas of our life acceptable...

and in other areas of life, we treat the very word with disdain...

I was just wondering as I stood at the bathroom sink.

"Satan always attacks the weak spots!"

Have you left yourself vulnerable to his attacks today?  Why?
Are you going to stay that way all day?  Why?
Have you asked God for His guidance, protection, and help?  Why not?
Who then...are you going to blame for your failures?  Why?

Just wondering...am I the only one who asks these types of questions? 
Does anyone else go through this type of a thought process when you find yourself standing in a pile of muck called failure?

Illustrations are used to drive a point home...sometimes the truth hurts!

"Many pastors are like pig farmers!  Christians show up to church and expect the pastor to give them what they need to fill them up and fatten them up spiritually to be able to make it through the week."

Audible gasps were heard through the auditorium.

For some reason...we don't think illustrations like this are "appropriate in church".  We get all hot and bothered..."The pastor just called us pigs."  "Well...I never..."

Would you have rathered he called you a fool?  sluggard?  silly woman?  scorner?  unlearned?

We truly understood the point that was being made.  Sometimes...Christians...church members...we need to be shocked out of our lethargy!  Our sin needs to be called out...whether we like it or not!  Whether it hurts or not!  We don't hear straight forward, direct preaching like we once did.  We don't like to hear it because it steps all over our toes and makes us feel guilty as the Holy Spirit tries to penetrate our heart, will, and stubborn pride.

Would you have rathered he asked you how many times you opened the Bread of Life and ate for yourself this week?  Or fed your family during a time of devotions?  Would that have been less shocking?  Would you have been less offended?  I submit to you...you would have been just as upset!  Because the question was personal and hurts when we realize what the truth is!  It demands a yes or no answer! 

As you spend time each day feasting on God's Word, you will come to realize that "all our righteousness is as a filthy rag" before a pure and holy God.  "Without Him...we can do nothing" to please Him.  He shows us how to think and live in His Word. He expects us to read, meditate, and memorize "that we may grow thereby".

Yes, I think the illustration that was used was perfect! 

Pigs...coming to a trough to get their fill...doing nothing...covered in muck!

Not the first time in history that pigs and their slop have been used to get someone's attention!  The blessing from that particular story...the man got right...and went home to make things right.

So what was all the gasping about?!

Can you sing the words to this song...and really mean it?!

What is most important to you?  Are you really willing to give it all up...for things that matter most to God?  He is not impressed with our achievements and our degrees.  How large our bank account is, doesn't impress Him.  He is not worried about our address and zip code.  What matters most...are the lives you touch each and every day!  How have you touched your family today?  Are they in your way?  Have you pushed them aside?  Have you encouraged someone else today or are you too obsessed with your troubles and desires?  Have you reached out to show the love of Jesus...with just a word or a smile?
We have lost sight of what is most important to God!  The only things that never die...are those people around you...and you can take them with you...to Heaven.

Things That Never Die

I can't think of any places I'd leave it all to go. I can't think of any thing I'd die to hold. The list of what is priceless is very short indeed. There aren't very many things I find I really need. So here's my simple plea...

Things that last forever, things that never die. I give my self each day I live, for what I know will never, never die. Yes, I will give myself away for things that will never die.

To know a love that's lasting, forgiveness without blame, peace that through the pressure still remains.  The simple joy of living, my family, and my friends.  Relationships that go on after space and time shall end.  I thank you, Lord, for them.

Things that last forever, things that never die.  I give myself each day I live, for what I know will never, never die.  Yes, I will give myself away for things that will never die.

To rescue someone dying, to lift a fallen child, to hurt when someone's hurting, to walk a second mile...
Things that last forever, things that never die.  I give myself each day I live for what I know will never, never die.  Yes, I will give myself away for things that will never die.

"Mom, when you sing again, can I sing with you?" asked Alisa.

When there is a willingness to use a talent for God...of course!  "Uh, I am on the schedule to sing this Sunday!  Is that too soon?" I asked.  She smiled and shook her head "No."

I had been thinking of two different songs...but they just weren't flowing.  Alisa asked me that question as I was listening to one of my favorite cds of late, "Alisa, are you willing to sing acapella with Mom?  I don't have the music...but God directed me to what song we will sing.  It is your testimony...our testimony of what God did for us a year ago."

My thoughts have drifted repeatedly to where we were a year ago at this time.  I have waves of emotion hit me at the oddest times.  The other night, I sat and read over the events of last February.  I am filled with gratefulness for God's direction in every situation.  I am asking God for strength of voice and control of emotions to be able to sing with our daughter.  As we practiced today, we talked about what God did in our lives last year.  We, personally, know the answer!  And don't ever want to forget His answer.

"Is Anything Too Hard For God?"

"Why Me?"

We all ask that question at one point or another.  Maybe we have asked it numerous times.  We have heard this question asked several times lately!
 By ourselves.
 By others.
It occurred to me the other day..."Why not me?" 
And then in the next thought, "Who else?"

I believe that God orders each step.  I believe that God has a plan for my life.  I believe that God's ways and purposes are not my ways and purposes.  I believe Proverbs 3:5-6.

So I will trust.  I will lean not on my limited understanding.  I will acknowledge Him.  And I know He will direct my path.
It makes perfect sense..."Why me?" 
Because I am His child...so..."Why not me?"!

You say you trust God...do you...really?

It's out of your hands, you've done all you can do. You've given God the problem, it's no longer up to you. You prayed the prayer of faith.  You're standing on God's truth while you're waiting on the answer, He has a question for you.


Is anything too hard for God?  Who's got a problem beyond His power to solve?  Are there situations He's not the master of?  Is anything too hard for God?


Only believe.  Trust His word.  You'll see His plans are now unfolding, performing perfectly.  It is clear how much He loves you, look at all He's done. For all your questions there's really only one.


Are there situations He's not the master of?  Is anything too hard for God?

Another song sung by Mrs. Susan McGill that has touched my heart this week with conviction.  Do I really believe this truth?  Do I act like it in my daily life?  Do I talk about His power and provision in my life?  Do I point others to this truth by my words and actions?  By my attitude?

A legitimate question!

"What is the big deal about this game anyway?" our middle child wanted to know.  "Is this the game that everyone was talking about?"
It is a legitimate question for a little girl, who is not into sports, to ask.
I asked the question too, in the grand scheme of life and eternity...what is the big deal?
Well...from the sound of it...in our neck of the woods...it is a very big deal.  And then I think back to the words of the song I sang yesterday morning...

What About You? 
What will you tell the Lord...when you stand before Him on that day?
What about you, will your life be in full accord, when you turn from Him to darkness and dismay?
**Well, God, Sunday...it is the only day I get to sleep in.  It is the only day I have off.  It is only for a couple hours...it just isn't worth it to fuss about.  The kids are little enough...it won't matter.**
Have you forgotten, His love so true? 
Have you forgotten how He suffered just for you?
When will you trust Him?
What will you do?
You're hearing now the call to Jesus, What about you?
**God, I've got time.  You understand how things are right now.  My family comes first, You know.**
What about you?
The hour is growing late.  This may be the very last time He may call.
What about you, He's pleading sinner do not wait.
Come and yield to Him your soul, your life, your all.
**God, you have my attention, but was that really necessary?  You know I was trying...I'm not perfect.  What more do you want?**

Pastor commented that it was a haunting question...that we all must consider.  That question has been "haunting" me for months...for weeks...and still today.  We fell into satan's trap.  We used the excuses.  We justified every move we made...after all..."God knows our hearts".  YES, HE DID!  Our hearts were filled with selfishness and deceit.  Our eyes were on our plans.  Our minds were filled with our ways.  WE HAD FORGOTTEN...THAT SOMEDAY...WE WILL STAND BEFORE A HOLY GOD!  GOD DID WHAT HE NEEDED TO DO TO GET OUR FOCUS BACK ON HIM.
I can't help but think back to a year ago...God took us to a point where we could do nothing...but trust and obey.  So...now...I ask questions like this too...what is the big deal?

We are so filled with the distractions of this world.  We are consumed with things that don't matter.  We are stressed.  We are upset.  We are distracted from the important things of life.  I am not saying that we can't enjoy different things...we enjoyed watching one of the biggest rivalries in football yesterday.  But it didn't consume our life...it is not in our every thought...it didn't take the place of what is important to God.

So many people lost alot of money yesterday...among other things.  Much effort and time was given to being ready for the game.  Something...that in light of eternity...doesn't matter!  There will be hundreds of other games and other rivalries.  The coaches will be replaced, the players will grow too old, the rings will tarnish, the trophy shoved out of the way for another...the glory and excitement doesn't last. 
Yet...sadly,  many Christians gave more time preparing for their parties and watching that afternoon game yesterday...than they gave to God.  They didn't bother with worshipping in His house and seeking His face yesterday.  He wasn't part of their game plan for the day. Yet this week...when trouble besets them...they will plead for His help and grace. 
I wonder...how long He will continue to ask the question...what is it going to take for you to yield your soul, your life, your all?
It is a legitimate question.  He asked us...and we had to answer it in a very personal way...last year around this time!

"Did You Forget What Christmas Is About?"

I've been thinking back over this Christmas season.  Evaluating what I did with my time.  Considering where I put my focus.  Asking myself, "Did I show love and thankfulness?"  "Was I kind or short-tempered?" "Did I consider others and their feelings and their plans?"  "Did we truly show our children what Christmas is all about...not just by our words...but our actions as well?"

For me, the memory-making starts with the decorations and the first snow.  The giving spirit demonstrating unconditional love...to those that live in our home...first!  If you can't do that...it doesn't matter what you do anywhere else...that is just a show!  All you do is show your instability and double-mindedness to your spouse and children...who are always watching you.  Read the book of James!  The meaning builds as the first strains of Christmas music begin.  Actually, this year, it all started with preparing for our Christmas program.  Back this summer, when my cousin-in-law (Is that what I would call Dave?) sent me the music for a song he wrote and recorded on A Quiet Christmas.  "Did You Forget?"  It is a soul-stirring question!  We began practicing and memorizing the end of September.

I think our children understood what we were trying to communicate.  They sang the songs and quoted the Scripture for the program. The program wasn't a beauty pageant.  It wasn't meant to be "cute". The children took the opportunity to tell others about the birth of Jesus seriously.  And many adults...missed the whole message!  It was disheartening to me, to be honest.  We spend time teaching and training our children Scripture and what God expects and why we do what we do...and then the shallowness of our adults blazes through the room.  Moms and Dads, have you ever considered the effects of your words and actions?  It is not an either or situation!  Your children see and hear your instability.  They are learning your double-minded ways.  We are faced with that reality each week as we stand before the children that are in junior church.  We are battling for the minds and hearts of children as we teach what God's Word says.

When the wrapping is pulled away...when the tree comes down...when the cookie platters only hold crumbs...what are you left with?  An empty, shallow feeling filled with regret?  Where was all your effort put this year?  What did you do that will last?  What will the New Year bring?  Will you continue as you are...or will you allow Him to change you...to set you free?

As we hustled and bustled through the Christmas season, some of us have regrets.  We lost our focus and lost the opportunity for sharing Jesus' birth and true joy with others.  We forgot...and lost that time this Christmas to make a memory for our loved ones.  Thank the Lord...we don't have to stay there!  We can seek His forgiveness and start the day with a clean slate!  We have a New Year ahead of us...and we can substitute the word...Christmas in the song with the word...life!

"Did You Forget?"

Did you forget what Christmas is about?  Have life's hardships filled your heart with doubt?  Are you living with some sad regret?  I've got a story you should not forget. 

There was a Baby, born poor and lowly, His name is Jesus, He came for you and me.  His birth forever changed the course of history and He can change you, too, and make you free.

Did you forget what Christmas is about?  Have you gone and left the Savior out?  Did you think that real peace could be bought, when all along it's Him your heart has sought?

There was a Baby, born poor and lowly, His name is Jesus, He came for you and me. His birth forever changed the course of history and He can change you, too, and make you free.

Receive Him as your own and be set free.

What memories do you have of Christmas 2010?  What memories do your children have?

What will you do with the life God has given you in 2011?

It is a good read...or watch for children and adults!

We just finished our summer kid's program on Wednesday nights.  We had a small group for the summer months, which is sad to me.  When the hype of kid's club comes to an end, so does the commitment to...whatever the commitment is to, but I doubt that it truly is to God.  Those who serve and minister to others need to have their hearts and souls refreshed by God's Word.  Those who lead in ministry are to be examples.  "We need a break" is the explanation.  A break from God? I wonder how that reason will be received by God Almighty?  My heart gets very heavy when I think about the ramifications of this mindset...what about our children's hearts?  What are we teaching the next generation?  How is it that this is the accepted way of thinking?  What has led us to this point of apathy?
We had a good time learning about heros of our faith (missionaries) this summer.  We learned about God's Word, why it was written, and many facts about the Bible.  We ended with the story of John Bunyan.  A man who was imprisoned for preaching God's Word.  We watched the video of Pilgrim's Progress.  WHAT A VIVID PICTURE OF THE DECISION EACH CHRISTIAN MAKES!  As I sat and viewed this with the children, tears came several times.  Tears of regret, tears of fear, tears of gratefulness, tears of desire, tears of joy.  We live in places like the City of Destruction and Vanity Fair.  We are surrounded by some people who desire to do right, but more in number are the ones who don't care for us.  They would rather we join them and be destroyed.  Satan lurks at every turn along life's way.  We will get discouraged and spend time doubting.  God will encourage us with those who love Him.  We all will walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death.  We will cross the river...some in great fear and some in peace.  One day...we will stand before His throne.  What wonderful truth is imparted in this story that God gave John Bunyan the talent to write...from his prison cell!  Sad to say...it was the first time some of our children had ever heard that story.  But they could give us the rundown of the list of characters from Star Wars and other pop-culture heroes.  What are we, as supposed Christian parents, doing to our children?  I wondered what character from Pilgrim's Progress our children would label me as!?!  I am almost afraid to ask!