Begin...

I'm so excited to share with you - my faithful readers - that I've moved to a new writing place...

You can find me here: http://michellenehrig.com/ 

I do hope you'll stop by!

Perfect Peace

As I was coming into consciousness this morning, this thought was tumbling through my mind: those whose mind is focused on you will be kept in perfect peace.

I knew this was scripture, I just didn't know its 'address.' So, I searched and discovered this is Isaiah 26:3. When I turned to this scripture in my Bible, I found it was already underlined and highlighted, so I must have been here before!

The NIV reads: "You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you." 

When the Lord brings to my mind a scripture, I have to dissect it to know how it applies to my current situation. Keeping this in mind, here are 4 key definitions according to Webster:

Perfect: complete in all respects; flawless

Peace: serenity, calm, or quiet

Steadfast: firm, fixed, constant

Trust: firm belief in the honesty, reliability, of another; faith

When I looked up this verse in the Message translation, this is what I found: "People with their minds set on you, you keep completely whole, steady on their feet, because they keep at it and don't quit."

Completely whole.

Steady on their feet.

Because they keep at it and don't quit.

Ok, so now I have the basis of what the words mean. Now it's time to pull out my commentary. Here's what Matthew Henry has to say about Isaiah 26:3

"All who belong to it {the nation that keeps faith - a reference to verse 2} are safe and at peace and have a security and calmness of mind in the assurance of God's favor. Thou wilt keep him in peace, in perfect peace, inner peace, outer peace, peace with God, peace of conscience, peace in all events. Those who trust in God must have their minds firmly set on him. God will keep in perpetual peace those who do so, and that peace will keep them {Psalm 112:7}."

Inner peace

Outer peace

Peace with God

Peace of conscience

Peace in all events

Did you catch that? He provides perfect peace in all events. Not just some events, not just some times...but all events...at all times.

Ok, so I decided to read on to verse 4: "Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal."

Matthew Henry has this to say about verse 4: "Trust in him forever, at all times, when you have nothing else to trust in. Whatever we trust in the world for is restricted to the limits of time. But what we trust in God for will last as long as we will last. For in the Lord Jehovah-Jah, Jehovah, in him who was, is, and is to come {Revelation 1:4}-there is, literally, a "Rock of ages," a firm and lasting foundation for faith to build on, and the house built on that rock will stand secure in a storm {Matthew 7:24-25}."

Based on many events that are currently happening in my life right now, God knew this word, this scripture, would be exactly what I needed. If I keep my mind fixed on Him, He will provide a complete serenity, a flawless calm and quiet that I cannot find anywhere else, in anything else. 

And of course, this all comes full circle to my life verse, Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."

I've had to accept that, if I'm going to trust in God and seek His perfect peace, then that also means I have to trust in His timing. And that's not always the easiest thing to do. 

I'm praying for perfect peace for all of you this morning. 

Heartfelt

According to Dictionary.com, 'heartfelt' can be defined as: "deeply or sincerely felt."

For the first time in a long time {if ever}, I experienced heartfelt listening and understanding recently.

It happened when I was experiencing a particularly low point in the month {let's be real, ladies...we ALL have them!}, there was a full moon, and the enemy was particularly bent on attacking me. All of these factors together created a full-blown storm of insecurity, self-doubt, negative self-talk, and a lack of confidence in who I am and WHOSE I am.

Someone who is very near to my heart and whom I care for a great deal could sense that there was something bothering me. I had been able to suppress it for a few days, but it began to bubble up to the surface like a pot of water ready to boil over.

When they approached me about what was on my mind, I was reticent to share what was truly brewing within. My fear (False Evidence Appearing Real) was that if I expose my innermost vulnerabilities, surely this person will want none of it and vanish...yet one more reason you should never give into fear or assume anything.

This person gently and lovingly drew this information out of me by continuing to ask questions. And not in a threatening manner; but in a manner which communicated to me that they truly cared about what was on my heart and mind. And the kicker? This person had been in an environment for 8-9 hours {or more}, that could be very emotionally, mentally, and physically draining. No, they weren't working! :-)

I am reminded of a quote by Melanie Beattie I once read:

"You don't blast a heart open. You coax and nurture it open, like the sun does to a rose."

This person never got defensive because of anything I said, even though, they could have. They were open and receptive to what I was sharing.

Their non-verbal communication was just as effective, if not more so, than their verbal communication.  They made constant eye contact with me, their posture was not indicative of being uninterested, and the tone of their voice made me feel safe and valued.

This person listened intently, I mean, truly listened and heard what I was saying. I felt honored, respected, cared for, and cherished by the way in which they handled this delicate situation.

See, no one truly enjoys being exposed and vulnerable. And yet, at the end of the conversation, I felt that a gap had been bridged. There we were, on the same side of the fence again. And I felt stronger because of it.

This experience left me...bewildered.

I thought to myself, 'What if...just what if, everyone were to interact with others in this manner? Wouldn't the world be a much nicer place to live?'

See, this person was less concerned with themselves, their feelings, and what they wanted. And they were more concerned with me, my feelings, and what was eating away at me.

Most people are more concerned with being understood than understanding others.

Most people are only listening with the intent to respond; not with the intent to hear what the speaker is actually saying, and what is really on their heart.

I can say that I have walked away from this encounter with a deeper, richer sense of relationship; a better understanding of what it takes to make any relationship work and function better.

My challenge to you is to think on this post...on my remarkable experience...and try to implement this in just one relationship you are currently in. Just one...and tell me if you don't walk away feeling better about yourself and your relationship.

And now, if I can bottle this heartfelt communication and sell it...

Belong

It's Friday! We made it through another week! Praises to Him for that...

Each Friday, with a community of other writers, I link up with Lisa-Jo Baker for Five Minute Friday. Want details? You can find those here.

Today we are writing on the word Belong.

Have you ever had one of  'those' days? Where you wonder what you're doing? Why you're doing it? If you belong where you are?

The last 24 hours have been like that for me.

See, last night, I attended my church's Worship Team rehearsal to see what they're like. {At the prompting of my two beautiful children, I'm considering joining - I think I might be crazy.}

At first, I just kind of stood back, a willing observer. Then they invited me onstage. Then they gave me headphones. Stuff just got real, folks!

The entire time, I was thinking to myself, I don't belong here. I don't fit in with these gifted individuals. While I enjoy LOVE to sing, there's a HUGE difference between singing along as the radio drowns you out and singing on stage...in front of people...with a microphone.

But see, the truth is, that in some way, we all belong there. We are all to be giving Him praises. Psalm 100:2 says, "Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs."

As we left, I told my kids that I was nervous being up there {truth is, my daughter already knew that; she could tell}. And then I told them how I was frustrated with myself for being nervous. Yes, I was testing the waters, but at the same time, I shouldn't have cared about how I sounded. I may not have a voice like Celine Dion, but I can sing...and it's not about singing for the praises of others...it's about giving the praises to Him.

And then there's this blog. I'm not sure I ever would have called myself a 'writer.' But when there is a God-given desire in your heart, you better recognize who it's coming from...and follow it.

Most days, I don't feel like I belong on the interweb...where I post some of my private {and not-so-private} thoughts for all the world to read. But I just keep-on, keepin' on. And I write anyway.

See, the key is that we all have special gifts. We all belong in the family of God - using those gifts.

Random Thoughts

Brace yourself; this post is going to contain some random thoughts. Please bear with me; writing is cheaper than therapy.

Have you ever been just going along your 'normal' day-to-day life and then something comes along your path which causes you to alter your course, your direction, your well-thought out plans?

It could be a positive thing or a negative thing, but then your equilibrium shifts and you're not quite sure how to adapt to the change? You're trying to get your bearings and steady yourself again. Establish a new 'normal'. 

And then you realize that normal is just a setting on the washer. Normal is only an illusion...a ghost...the slippery bar of soap in the bathtub. 

Then...and then...you get a message...a text...a phone call...any communication at all...that reminds you where you are...why you're doing what you're doing...and why you should press on...in spite of the shaky ground you feel you tread upon. 

Someone who has thought enough of you in that moment to share with you their innermost thoughts about you. 

Someone whose opinion you value...someone you respect...someone you look up to...someone you love and you know loves you back. 

And they cause you to remember that your bearings, your equilibrium, your foundation is not in anything worldly that may cross your path...but rather in the King of kings, the Lord of lords, your Savior. Your Prince of Peace.

That you don't need to try to steady your own course. You don't need to try to handle it all on your own. You can't create your own peace or your own rest. 

Jesus is the answer to every question.

And all is right in the world again. The feelings of unrest or unease are melting away. And you can lean into the arms of Jesus and know, really KNOW that you are where you're supposed to be. Normal or not. Balanced or not. 

You know that, no matter what it may look like in the Lower Story, in the Upper Story, God is working everything out for our good. For His glory. And for His kingdom. 

And while you feel that He couldn't possibly use someone like you; that your role is so minuscule, it's almost non-existent. But rest assured, every part is key. The story couldn't go on without you. 

You, and the responsibilities He has given you, can make a difference. 

And His Beauty

i spent some time recently enjoying nature and His beauty...

listening to the birds chirping, watching the sunrise...

i recalled something my Emma said to me recently on a leisurely stroll...she was commenting on how quiet it was on our road at that particular time and she remarked, "momma, think if we were really quiet, we could hear the corn growing?"

ahhhh...to have the faith and curiosity of a child again...when did we grow up and stop being inquisitive...stop seeking knowledge around every bend?

here are a few shots i recently took

the remnants of 2-week old birthday flowers and the sun blazing its path into my kitchen:

the farmer's crops...growing as they should:

the sun highlighting all that is glorious:

and a backwards reminder that His eye is on the sparrow:

Psalm 19:1 - "the heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands."

Exhale

I'm waiting for the other shoe to fall...as it seems to always do. Is it okay to exhale?

Is it okay to breathe that deep sigh of relief, not knowing if everything will turn out just as I want it to?

Or am I better served to wait until they're all grown-up and on their own? When they're completely responsible for their own choices...

Is it okay to exhale and leave them in the hands of their Father?

Is it okay to exhale and remember the words emblazoned on my ring from Romans 8:28, "And we know that in ALL things, God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."

Is it okay to exhale and know that He will use their lives, their experiences, their situations for His glory and their good?

Yes, I believe I can exhale. I believe I can breathe deeply, safely tucked in the embrace of knowledge that God makes all things new. He works all things for His glory...

The good, the messy, the ugly, the happy, the sad, even the disappointments. The trials, the tests, the rejoicing testimonies.

It's easy for me now to look back on my life now and see how each and every circumstance led me to a deeper reverence for You. 

Thank You for holding my future and the future of my children in Your hands so I can exhale.

Lost

It's Friday again. Yep, you guessed it. That means it's time for Five Minute Friday where I link up with Lisa-Jo Baker and a whole group of bold, brave, courageous writers to write on a topic for five minutes - no editing, no second guessing, just straight writing.

Today we are writing about lost...

It's been such a short time and yet, there is a familiarity that is years old. Have we really only just begun?

It all started innocently enough. As all really great things do. Baseball. It was baseball that connected us. Your passion for the kids. My desire for my son to be exposed to something really great.

Is it really possible to get so lost...so easily...so quickly? The world and those in it would say it's not rational. Or reasonable. But since when is getting lost reasonable or rational?

So many times, I think of you and get lost in the possibilities...the opportunities...the 'what-ifs' {of the truly great kind}. And before I know it, I've arrived at my destination.

Getting lost in the moment...while I'm watching you coach or work...and coming to the conclusion that I'm a goner.

So many conversations we've had about our dreams, desires, goals...many of which are lost in this day and age. It's about getting back to the basics.

And being found. And looking at you and feeling like I'm home...no longer lost, but right where I'm supposed to be.

Maybe I was never lost to begin with. Just on my way to something really great. And I found you. 

Release

Well y'all. It's Friday. We've made it through another week. And may I share with you that it's not just any other Friday? On this particular day, I get to celebrate my life. The life given to me by my earthly parents and my Heavenly Father. 

But that's not what this post is about. Today, as with most Fridays, I'm linking up with Lisa-Jo Baker for her Five Minute Friday writing challenge. If you don't typically read her, may I suggest you head on over there now? Go ahead, I'll wait...

Today, the prompt is Release...

Most days I write - words that are my story, that are true and genuine and only mine to write and share. 

Most days I read - words that inspire, words that cut deep to the soul of my being.

Most days I do a litany of other tasks as well; laundry, dishes, prepare meals, kiss boo-boos, give hugs {my favorite!}, tell stories, say prayers. 

All of these things, and more, define who I am. Who I am to my children, others, and most importantly, my God. They shape and mold me.

Some days, I wonder who I'm doing all of this for. Who am I writing for? Who receives the benefit of my reading? I know why I do the laundry and dishes and meal prep; because no one else will do it.

But why do I invest the time to kiss boo-boos? Why do I take the time to say prayers that are thoughtful and genuine? 

Why do I share the stories that shaped me?

These are things I do that are released into the atmosphere. These things are less for my benefit, and more for the benefit of others to come; others that may come along after me. 

On this day, I am releasing the expectation that people will read what I write; that people will like what I write; that I may have an impact on someone else.

Today, I'm releasing the desires to share the big stuff. Instead, I'm remembering that it's a bunch of little stuff that makes up the big stuff. 

And it's the whole lot of little stuff that matters. 

Today, I'm releasing these words, and the words to come...I'm releasing them into the world to do what they are meant to do. And it's not my call or decision what their meaning is. 

That's up to the Creator. 

So, ultimately, I'm releasing my words to Him. For Him. Because of Him. 

Messenger

A messenger can be found in many places, in many spaces. Just yesterday, I had two very special messengers.

The first messenger came to me when I was feeling discouraged about where I am in my bible reading plan, because I'm behind. Not to mention the fact that I was not feeling an overwhelming connection to the text. 

And then, out of the blue, one of my favorite people sent me a message with these words:

"1 Kings 18:30b, 'And he repaired the altar of the Lord that was broken down.' 

Rightly dividing the Word of truth faithfully is like Elijah's careful and meticulous preparations on the altar. Obedience and faith came before the fire."

WOW! Talk about right. on. time. I needed this message from this messenger. I needed to hear that the important thing is not the timing of my bible reading, but the fact that I am faithfully in His Word. That I am reading and dissecting and trying to grasp the truth of His word. That I'm trying to not be just a hearer, but also a do-er of His Word. 

This, yes this obedience of being in His Word daily. The faith that His Word does not return void. Yes, these come before the fire. These come before the miracles. 

The second messenger was found in a song on the radio and the scripture on my wall. I was enjoying the company of a special guest in my home last night. 

While we were sitting there, Jeremy Camp came on the radio. He was singing about walking by faith. At that point, I turned to my wall where the words of 2 Corinthians 5:7 are emblazoned. These words that were placed with careful consideration before I even had the hopes of owning my home...my little slice of heaven here on earth. These words that remind me that this home is my blessing. It has MY name on it. And if it's my blessing, no one can take it from me.

At that moment, I had to smile. I had to smile knowing that God, in His infinite wisdom, gives us just what we need when we need it. The good and the bad. And I knew, while enjoying my guest's company, that one day, God will give me what I need, right when I'm ready for it and not a moment too soon. I need only to walk by faith. And keep rightly dividing His Word of truth. Faithfully. 

My Temple

Dictionary.com defines temple as: 'an edifice or place dedicated to the service or worship of a deity.' 

Also, 'any place or object in which God dwells, as the body of a Christian,' as referenced in 1 Corinthians 6:19. In this verse, we read, "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?"

I've been doing a One Year plan to read the entire Bible. (Can I share with you that I'm a little behind? But can I also share with you that I'm learning sooo much?) The Lord is revealing some things to me that I wouldn't want to miss by rushing through His word.

In my reading yesterday in 2 Chronicles 6, Solomon had just finished building the temple that was to be for The Lord. He then offers a prayer of dedication for it. 

In this dedication in verses 20 & 21, he says, "May your eyes be open toward this temple day and night, this place of which you said you would put your Name there. May you hear the prayer your servant prays toward this place"

When I read this, I get excited! Especially when I think of my body being God's temple. 

Think about that...if your body is a temple, this prayer of dedication is asking God to keep His eyes open toward it day and night...to never turn away...to never close His eyes toward it. 

This prayer of dedication asks God to have constant, unwavering, laser-like focus on YOU.

So, with this in the back of my mind, I continued to read. All the way to chapter 7. Where I found the Lord appeared to Solomon.

In verses 15 & 16, the Lord says, "Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place. I have chosen and consecrated this temple so that my Name may be there forever. My eyes and my heart will always be there."

Wait...what...what did I just read?

Ok, so not only can I be so bold as to ask God to never, not for one second, take his eyes off of me...no, more than that...don't even CLOSE them. But I can also ask Him to listen for my prayers...and He will do it?!?!?!

He says He will listen for my prayers. 

He says HE chose and consecrated this temple...me, my body. But why did He do it? Did He do it because I'm so wonderful? Because I'm so great at obeying Him? Because I'm so unselfish? 

Good gracious no. He did it so that His name would be there forever. Not just for the day...not just for the week...not for that one year that you've I've really got your my stuff together...but FOREVER. Even when you're I'm acting a fool. Even when you I forget about Him...He never forgets about you me. 

His eyes and His heart are always there...with me...in my temple, that was built for service and worship to Him. 

He did it so that He can get the glory.

Blueberry Cobbler

Whenever we have family and friend gatherings, one of my most requested dishes is my blueberry cobbler. The kids and I are having very special guests for dinner tonight and I'm making this dish for our dessert. So, I thought I would share my recipe with you all. I have adapted this from The Pioneer Woman's Blackberry Cobbler recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 pound (1 stick) butter, melted (as a sidenote, you will NOT find margarine in my house - we always use butter)
• 1 1/4 cups plus 2+ tablespoons sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup half & half (you can substitute milk, if you prefer)
• 2 cups fresh (or frozen) blueberries (if you're local to Lafayette, you should check out the Prelock Blueberry Farm. This is where I get mine from and they're quite possibly the BEST blueberries out there!)

Preheat the oven to 350.

Grease a 3-quart baking dish with butter.

Place the stick of butter in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-45 second increments until melted.

In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, salt, baking powder, and 1 cup of the sugar. 

Whisk the half & half into the dry ingredients. 

Whisk in the melted butter.

Rinse the blueberries and pat them dry. (If you're working with frozen blueberries, it's likely you've already done this step prior to freezing them.)

Pour the batter into the baking dish. Sprinkle the blueberries evenly over the top of the batter.

Evenly sprinkle 1/4 cup of sugar over the blueberries.

Bake for 1 hour, or until golden brown and bubbly. When 10 minutes of the baking time remain, evenly sprinkle the remaining 2+ tablespoons of sugar over the top (use your best guesstimate, sometimes I use more, sometimes just the 2 tablespoons).

When you're done, you're left with baked blueberry deliciousness that will keep 'em coming back for more!

{Today, I'm linking up with the Simple Life Sunday Blog}

Hands

I once read that things are different in the hands of different people.

For example, a paintbrush is much different when in the hands of Monet versus a child.

A basketball is much different in the hands of Michael Jordan than those of Babe Ruth.

A piano sounds much different when played by the hands of Mozart than when played by the hands of a first year piano student.

Clay turns out to be something much more inspired when molded by Leonardo da Vinci than when turned and shaped by a college student in an elective course.

One of the best examples I can think of to illustrate this is with the two fish and the five loaves of bread.

In Luke 9, there was a crowd of people surrounding Jesus and His disciples waiting and yearning to be taught. But, as Jesus repeatedly taught us, we need to meet people where they are before attempting to minister the Word of God to them.

This crowd was hungry, so Jesus told His disciples, "You give them something to eat."

They replied, "We only have five loaves of bread and two fish-unless we go and buy food for all this crowd."

If you are familiar with the story, you know that Jesus takes the bread and the fish, and, "looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke them."

The story further goes on to tell us that everyone ate to their satisfaction and there was still plenty that was left over.

Two fish and five loaves of bread go much further when in the hands of Jesus than when in the hands of His disciples.

When I apply this to my life, I realize that my circumstances, my children, my blessings, my challenges are all different in my hands than in the hands of others. While I may long for an easier road, or different blessings, I realize that God can't accomplish what He wants to in me and through me without giving me what is in my hands.

Only I can prepare my children for the life God has for them; no other mother could do that. Only I can share with others my struggles as a single parent and give them hope that they, too, will come out on the other side - and stronger for it.

Only my words will breathe life into an experience I've lived; one that will deeply move and touch the heart of another.

So, friends, on this day, instead of looking at your situation and wondering why this is the hand that God has dealt you, thank Him that He chose you for this great work. Work that only you and your hands can accomplish for His greater purpose.

Close

Sometimes I wonder if we're close enough. Not as in geographically. Or even in the same house.

But are we close enough that it's going to mean something when they get older. When they want to talk about things that really matter.

Do they genuinely see me as a refuge? As a safe haven? As someone who really has their back? Are we that kind of close?

I know at some point, they will turn to their peers before they turn to me. But, do we have that close-knit bond that will allow them to understand that, despite what predicament they get into with or without their friends, they can call home? They can call their Momma...and I will listen or help.

I want to be close enough to them that when they get older and they get into a wrong relationship, they can call me and I'll listen without judgment or even negative non-verbal communication.

Will they know that I just have their best interests at heart?

Are we close enough for them to know that they can rely on me to be there when their friends decide to drink and drive and they aren't comfortable getting into the car with them?

Are we close enough for them to know that they can rely on me to be there when they decide to drink and NOT drive and they need a ride home?

Am I laying the foundation, daily, that is required for us to be this kind of close?

Am I putting in the hard work, the dedication, the time necessary to make this kind of close a reality?

Am I praying the hard prayers that seem to go out into the abyss, only to be answered many days, weeks, months, and years later?

Mother's Day - with a twist

I'd like to do something a little different on Mother's Day this year. I want to take some time to focus on the little people who gave me the much revered and respected title of "Mother."

So today, this post is for them. This is my list of why I love being mother to each of them. 

For Emma, my girl, my first born, the one who radically changed my life in the most amazing way...here are some of the reasons I love being your mother:

1)  your heart

2)  your singing

3)  your love for others

4)  when you ride on the lawn mower with me

5)  your love and compassion for animals

6)  the way you twirl - in any new dress, when you put on a 'cape' 

7)  how you always know just when I need a hug

8)  how you snuggle

9)  your perseverance

10) how you always look for the good in others

11) your forgiving nature

12) the way you hold me accountable

13) your tenderness with sick or elderly people - it takes a very special person to have this 

14) the time you skipped cheerleading practice (which you LOVED) to stay home with me because I was not feeling well

15) your imagination

16) watching you play anything and everything

17) your genuine laugh

18) your desire to do the right thing - at all cost

19) when we just sit or lay and talk - about whatever is on our minds

For Elijah, my 'baby' and my son, the one who constantly challenges (in a good way) my patience...here are some of the reasons I love being your mother:

1)  your smile

2)  your heart

3)  your sense of humor - this has been a saving grace many days in our home!

4)  your appetite

5)  the way you constantly encourage others

6)  how you're such a good friend

7)  how you always find things for me - you're my 'finder' - and you find things I didn't even know were lost!

8)  when you call me 'Momma Jo' - and the fact that I have NO idea where that came from, but it's your special name for me.

9)  how you can always make me laugh

10) how you always look for the good in others

11) your forgiving nature

12) your passion for the things you love

13) the way you notice every new and little thing about me - whether it's new earrings, freshly painted toenails/fingernails - you're a noticer, and that's a fantastic thing!

14) watching you play anything and everything

15) your imagination

16) how you know every single character on Skylanders and what element they are and what they say when you put them on the portal (see #12)

17) your laid back style

18) your charisma

19) our late night 'pillow-talks' where I get to hear all about your day

Some of the items are on both lists, but those are the things I'm super grateful for in both of my kids. 

Some days, I'm not gonna lie, I really have to hunt for something to like about my kids...because, like all kids, they test me, they push me, they challenge me and my authority. 

But if I'm truly honest with myself, my kids bring much joy to my life and have made me a better person. 

I think that's the thing about motherhood - it's truly a calling. And it can change you in amazing ways, but only if you let it. 

The Hands Free Revolution

I'm embarking on a new journey. This will be a life-long journey, but the rewards will be felt instantly. After all, that's what our society is about, right? Instant gratification. Instant results. 

We want it now; no, in fact, we want it yesterday.

Recently, two things have come across my radar. First, this video appeared, ironically, in my FaceBook news feed. Go watch it. No really, I'll wait...go watch it and come back a changed person.

Secondly, Rachel Macy Stafford's post, "The Day I Stopped Saying 'Hurry Up'" has had an impact on me. You see, I have a sweet boy who is a 'stop and smell the roses' kinda guy. My daughter, while she enjoys the smelling of the roses, she more wants to please me, therefore, she has stepped right in line with my expectations of 'get-it-done-now-so-we-can-hurry-up-and-move-onto-the-next-thing' mentality. 

Let me share something with you, friends. I'm tired. I mean, I'm really tired. Tired of trying to be involved in everything and tired of trying to be everything to everyone else, while my kids get less than the best from me. 

Before you get all high and mighty on me, let me share with you that my kids come first in my decision making. Which is where the lines get blurred. Because is it best for them that they be involved in every activity that comes their way? Or is it best for them to have a mom that is able to sit and appreciate them because we aren't running out the door to the next play/practice/rehearsal/activity/event/program there is?

I know what the Bible tells me. I know what God has been pressing into my heart. I know what my gut-wrenching, overbooked-calendar, stressed-out, tightly-wound, body is telling me. That we need to  s   l   o   w   d   o   w   n.

So, today, I'm taking the 'Hands Free Pledge' to be more present with my children. (I'm taking this from Rachel Macy Stafford's book "Hands Free Mama.") 

          The Hands Free Pledge 

     I'm becoming Hands Free.
     I want to make memories, not to-do lists.
     I want to feel the squeeze of my child's arms, not the pressure of overcommitment.
     I want to get lost in conversation with the people I love, not consumed by a sea of unimportant emails.
     I want to be overwhelmed by sunsets that give me hope, not by overloaded agendas that steal my joy.
     I want the noise of my life to be a mixture of laughter and gratitude, not the intrusive buzz of cell phones and text messages.
     I'm letting go of distraction, disconnection, and perfection to live a life that simply, so very simply, consists of what really matters.
     I'm becoming Hands Free. 


Won't you join me?

Share with me in the comments your thoughts on how we can make positive changes to put the phones down, close the screens, and really connect with people.

It's ALIVE!!!!

Ok, y'all need to get comfy...I'm about to tell you a most interesting story...got your coffee, water, tea, or soda ready? Are you snuggled in with a cozy blanket? Ok, here we go...

Tonight Elijah had baseball practice. Emma and I dropped him off at the ball field and went to Sam's Club. I'm watching my time, in order to get back to get him around 7:30. We get him picked up, and head home about 8:15. This is where it gets good.

For those of you who haven't been to my house, the master bathroom window overlooks the back of my yard and my neighbor's back yard. I walked in my bathroom and happened to look out. In the distance, I saw one of our chickens...the kicker is, it looked like it was on the OTHER side of the fence (in my neighbor's back yard). 

So, I stroll outside to investigate. Sure enough, the chicken was frantically pacing along the fence line, trying to determine how it got itself into this predicament and how to get itself out. I could see the worry in her face, as she could see her friends, but couldn't get to them. I can only imagine what was going through her little chicken brain.

I gather the kids and head over to the neighbor's to try to corral this chicken and return it to our coop. A few of my chickens will allow me to pick them up; this was not one of them. I know in my mind that this is not going to be an easy task. With each step I take, I'm rehearsing the kabillion ways this could go. 

The kids and I get to the same side of the fence as the chicken, and I'm trying to slowly approach her, in the hopes that she *might* allow me to just pick her up and toss her over the fence. She sees me coming and scurries in the opposite direction. 

I ask Emma to hold the gate open, thinking if I can slowly walk alongside her, with the fence on the other side of her, we might be able to just walk her right out of the yard. Naturally, she ends up in a corner, not at all interested in my plan. 

After this dance goes on for about 10 minutes, Emma finally yells to Elijah for him to hold the gate and she can help me. See, she and I have done this trick before when we're trying to get the chickens in their run. Elijah begins to hold the gate, but not before a 5 minute dissertation from Emma on how it should be done. 

A couple of times, the chicken gets within arms reach of me. I'm able to grasp out for her, but she's very elusive and escapes my advances. At this point, I'm beginning to feel a little Jerry McGuire-ish, in saying to her, "Help me help you. Listen up chicken, I know you want to be with your other little chicken friends, but you gotta work with me here."

Clearly, I did not have all my wits about me...trying to reason and rationalize with a chicken. Not one of my finer moments.

At this point, both kids end up at the gate to the yard and we're all very discouraged. I begin brainstorming other ideas to attempt to save this hen from it's fate of being separated from her sisters, when all of a sudden, the kids begin screaming, "HERE COME THEIR DOGS! MOMMA, THEIR DOGS ARE COMING!!" 

Having lost a few of my chickens to the neighbor's dogs in the past, we KNOW that they will attack the chicken in a heartbeat. 

At first the kids were able to distract the dogs by having them come to them. But as soon as one of the dogs catches a whiff of the chicken, he's gone! In an instant, the dog was at the chicken, grabbing it by its neck and dragging it through the yard. 

I immediately heard wailing from Emma and Elijah because they LOVE these chickens. I tried to stop the dog, but had no luck. Pretty soon, the chicken was laying in the yard in a heap. My adrenaline was slowly beginning to decline, and I was now faced with the task of calming the kids down and explaining to them that the chicken somehow made it to the other side of the fence, and that this result was a very real possibility. 

Emma and I began walking what felt like a trail of death back to the house; Elijah was already there. They were both in hysterics. 

I was taking the time to explain to them that this is what happens, and that our dogs are pretty much the exception to the rule that dogs like to play with and kill chickens. I was mid-sentence when Elijah shouts so loudly that I'm sure people in the next county could hear him, "IT'S ALIVE!!!! OH MOMMA, IT'S ALIVE!!! LOOK!!!"

I turn to look and as sure as I'm sitting here now, that chicken got up, shrugged her wings, and walked away from a pile of feathers that I just knew would be the final resting place of that poor girl. 

I quickly tell Emma to run to the house and ask the neighbors not to let the dogs out; that the chicken is alive and we're going to try to get it.

I make my way back over to the other side of the fence, and again, we are playing this little cat-and-mouse game in which the chicken gets just close enough for me to catch it...if I took a nose-dive...and then runs off. 

Have I mentioned HOW FAST chickens are when they are running?!?!? (Obviously not fast enough to outrun a boxer, though!)

By a stroke of sheer luck, I catch the chicken and, quite literally, toss the darn thing over the fence. 

At this point, I'm ready for a stiff drink! All of this excitement is more than I can handle!

I begin walking back to the yard, after a successful search-and-rescue mission, and Elijah says, "It's a miracle! I just knew that God would save that chicken!!"

Oh to have the faith of a child again...

Stay tuned for further antics from my chickens! (Even though the blog says 13 chickens, I actually have 8 chickens, and 11 pullets, which are like female teenage chickens...and they're not even as much trouble as the grown ones!!!) 

I'm gonna go fix that drink now...enjoy your evening/day/afternoon, whatever time it is when you're reading this. 

Do You Measure Yourself?

A journalist visited a town famous for its rampant unhappiness to see if he could understand its origin. Walking down the street, he noticed a man ahead of him. 

Suddenly, a little man, no more than a few inches high, appeared and ran up the man's leg. He started sticking pins into the man and sewing things to him. 

Instantly, the man was covered by these tiny tailors, all sticking him with pins. He looked completely miserable as he shuffled off.

The journalist saw this happen to one person after another, until he was ready to give up and go home. The town was completely infested with tiny tailors; no wonder everyone was unhappy.

Then the journalist noticed one woman covered with tiny tailors who apparently said something, and the tiny tailors just melted away. 

The journalist ran over to her. "What did you say to get free of them?!" he exclaimed.

"Oh," she answered, "it was nothing. I just told them I've decided to stop measuring myself."

--Guy Finley

How many of us allow tiny tailors to attach themselves to us? To our outsides...to our insides...

How many of us walk through life feeling defeated, because we feel like we don't measure up to some impossible standard of living?

Whether it's the way you feel you should be talking to your spouse, or the way you feel you should be interacting with your children, or the way you feel you should lose weight, or the way you feel you should treat yourself.

In all of these examples, we should ourselves. We should ourselves almost to the point of exhaustion and defeat.

Surely, I'm not the only one?!

This year was supposed to be the year I came to accept myself and who I am. Not that I was content to just remain stagnant where I was when the year started, but to just accept ME. for ME.

I'm not sure I'm progressing in this goal.

And it makes me kind of sad.

What example am I setting for my children if I walk around with LOADS of negative self-talk going on? That does nothing for the environment in my home.

Just this morning, I felt like I was failing at life. And then my daughter, my beautiful daughter, wrapped her arms around my neck and said the sweetest words to me, "I Love You, Momma."

WOAH! It was like a ton of bricks were lifted off my shoulders.

Then, my son echoed her sentiments. He said, "It's OK, Momma."

And I knew I was right where I was meant to be...being 'measured' by the ones who love me most. Who see me at my best...and at my worst...

We are our own worst critics. Let's band together and silence the inner voice which tells us that we'll never measure up...

Five Minute Friday - Friend

Hey Friends! Here we are, at another Friday (already?). So, I've been doing some thinking...scary, I know. I'm going to start writing more frequently. There for a while, I was writing almost daily and it has slowly trickled off. But, as I've said before...I need to write like I need to breathe. And sometimes, it's not much...but just taking the time to sit down and get all of the thoughts out of my head and onto paper (21st Century translation = computer screen).

Today, as with all Fridays, I'm linking up with Lisa-Jo Baker for her Five Minute Friday writing challenge. Today's prompt is Friend...ready? GO!

It's funny to think of the word friend. Sometimes, I think that I haven't got a friend in the world, and then other times, when I take a long-hard look around, I realize I'm blessed with an overwhelming supply of friends.

Those who encourage me with the things they say or do.

Those who lift me up when I'm having trouble lifting myself up.

Those who pray for me when I feel I don't have the strength or stamina to pray for myself.

Those who remind me of the song of my life and sing it back to me when I forget it's chorus or the verses.

Those who let me know that it's okay (and perfectly normal) to yell at my children on occasion. (Side note: thank God for His grace and mercy that I don't stay in 'that place.')

Those who push me to do more. To be more. To love more. To forgive more - even when I feel I. Just. Can't. Forgive. Again.

Those who love me when I feel I'm at my most unlovable.

Those who have care and compassion for me when I'm hurting.

I have several girlfriends who fit some or all of the above. And I'm so grateful for each and every one of them.

I know that you, my dear reader, have this person or people in your life that do these things for you. Oftentimes, it's the person we would least expect it to be. In my case, it's my children.

I know that I can't share all of my personal woes and life struggles in detail with my children, but they have been my best friends lately.

They remind me that I'm their superhero. I'm their mom. I'm their first friend. And I hope to be their best and last friend they have.

Five Minute Friday - Glue

Whew! We made it through another week! I don't know about you, but I'm praising God for that. Today is Friday, and I link up with Lisa Jo Baker for her Five Minute Friday challenge - five solid minutes of writing on a one word prompt - no second guessing, no grammar concerns - just write.

Today's prompt is glue. GO

Merriam-Webster defines glue as, "any of various strong adhesive substances; something that binds together." As I think about the glue in my life...what strong adhesive substances I'm surrounded by, what something(s) that bind me together, my first thought on this Good Friday takes me to my Savior.

John 1:1-2 tells us, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning." Jesus was there. Just as He is here now.

Glue - something that binds together. Oh, like something that binds me together? You mean like on the days when I just don't want to see one more crumpled up sock? You mean like on the days when I can't muster up the strength to put one more smile on my face for the sake of my children?

Or on the days when my world has been shaken to it's core and I know that in order to be the glue that my children need on this earth, I have to keep it together. Yes, those days are the days I'm scratching and clawing my way to the cross. To get what Jesus has for me...the rest He promises for the weary and burdened...the peace He offers, not in the way the world gives or offers...the amazing grace He gives...the hope that is found in His name.

Jesus...

Five Minute Friday - Paint

Happy Friday y'all! We made it through another week! On Fridays I link up with Lisa-Jo Baker for her Five Minute Friday writing challenge - write for 5 minutes flat, no second guessing, no going back and changing your words; on a topic given to you. Today the prompt is 'Paint'...here goes...

A few weeks ago I wrote a post about my daughter painting and how I was simply exasperated when she got the set of brushes in the paint...it wasn't because she was intentionally trying to make a mess, it was because she was just so excited at the brushes I had found.

Last week, I wrote about a sunrise - a true gift from God that day. I wrote about how the colors appeared as though the artist had carelessly just streaked his brush across the sky. When we know that THE artist is anything but careless.

I guess what I'm learning from these 'paint' scenarios is that not everything in life is going to be 'perfect.' And besides, who says that what I think is 'perfect' is actually perfect? If I'm not perfect - and I'm not - then how could I have even a remote sense of what perfect is?

When someone sits down to paint, or draw, or be creative and expressive in any way (by the way, I believe writing falls into this category), there is no right or wrong. There is no perfect. There is no black and white. There are only shades of grey, and colors that blend and bleed, and words that may not fit 'just so.'

So, from here on out, I'm going to take a step back and just be...be content for things to be as they are, without worrying that they're not perfect. Because I'm not. So, how could I expect for things (and people) around me to be perfect?

Sunrise Abounding

It seems my schedule hasn't allowed for me to write in abundance lately. As I've discovered during this drought, writing is therapeutic for me...and I need it. So, yesterday morning, despite the fact that Elijah and six of his friends were slumbering in the basement and any one of them could have awoken at any time, I decided to sit and enjoy the gorgeous sunrise...and write about it...

I'm sitting on my bed - listening to "Hallelujah, Salvation and Glory" and watching the sunrise as I drink my coffee. When I first looked out, the night sky was a shade of midnight blue and where the sun was beginning to come upon the horizon, there was a shade of magenta. Now, as I look out - only a few short minutes later - it's a blazing orange with depth and shades of pink. The blue backdrop of the night sky is beginning to lighten up. I could see the silhouette of a bird in the tree branch. 

The blue is really getting lighter despite the fact that the depth of the actual sunlight isn't increasing. The words of the song strike me deep - 'THE King of kings and Lord of lords.'

Everything is slowly growing more visible and the light is giving the trees more definition. I hear Jesus Culture singing to me now...'Your Glory surrounds me - and I'm overwhelmed'

The sky is now a beautiful shade of sky blue - but still not yet what it will be during the day. Where the sun is rising - the color is a shade between orange and pink and yellow. The colors are rich with new beginnings and yet...the depth and width of the color has not overtaken the sky.

Where the colors were so strictly defined before, they are now beginning to bleed into one another. The sky is now a very pale blue - almost grey-ish white.

The clouds in the distance are now becoming illuminated with the deep pink of the sun. It's so awesome to see the contrast in the clouds. On the top, they are the shade of the sky, but their shape and the outline of the bottom is defined by the color of the rising sun. While I watch the beauty unfold before me, I think about how me and my shape would be defined by the rising 'SON'.

Jesus Culture serenades me with the glorious truth that is occurring before me: 'the winter has passed and the springtime has come.'

The sunrise that is blocked by the trees reveals a sky that is almost translucent. And now - the colors of the sunrise are so narrow and thin - it's just a sliver of orange across the horizon - barely visible. As if all of the glory that was just seen is preparing me for what is to come.

I can see things in the distance that I couldn't before. There's a farm and factory that is illuminated by the light peeking through. 

I hear Kim Walker describing exactly what I'm witnessing: 'Heaven meets earth like a sloppy, wet kiss.'

The sky is now a dusty light blue - with white streaking across like an artist carelessly casting his brush across his canvass. But THE artist is far from careless. Every detail of this sunrise was orchestrated and meant for me this morning. And I'm basking in the awesomeness of it all. My God is the artist...and the world is His canvass. 

It's an oddity - complex and yet so simple - that the sky and the earth would be lit up - but the actual sun is still not yet visible. I suppose it's the same in life-we can't see the actual SON, but we can see His light in those around us. 

As I hear children beginning to stir under me, I take a moment to thank God for this time that is coming to and end. I thank Him for these revelations. For these illustrations and demonstrations of His character.  

Decoding Your Child's SOS - by Dr. Laura Markham

This email came through my inbox with some really good information. It's by Dr. Laura Markham and can be found online here: Decoding Your Child's SOS

Decoding Your Child's SOS

"All communication is either an SOS or a care package." -- Kelly Bryson
You’ve probably heard the term “Acting out’ refer to misbehaving. It actually means to act out a feeling that you can't express in words.

So when your three year old hits the baby, or your five year old throws a toy at you, or your seven year old slams the door, they’re acting out. You could respond with punishment. After all, the behavior is clearly unacceptable. But you would be missing the feeling that your child is finding so unbearable that he has to act it out. You would be missing your child’s SOS.

Should you overlook the “bad” behavior? Of course not. Move in to keep everyone safe. (In a perfect world, of course, you would do this BEFORE the SOS behavior. But families are made of humans, who by definition aren't perfect. That's ok; Love serves us better than Perfect every time.)

As you set the limit--calmly and kindly--remind yourself that there’s a reason for your child’s behavior. It may not be what you consider a good reason, but it’s her reason. And if you don’t address the need or feeling that’s motivating her behavior, you're not giving her the help she needs to behave.

Want some examples of decoding an SOS?

• Children who are always cranky and uncooperative usually need more sleep, more connection, a physical ailment addressed, or a safe opportunity to cry in a parent’s arms.
• Children who compete with siblings often need to feel more connected to parents, more "seen" and valued for who they are.
• Children who keep pushing the limits usually need to know the parent is in charge and will keep them (and everyone else) safe. (You show them this by setting limits clearly, firmly and with empathy.)
• Children who "don't listen" have usually been trained not to take us seriously unless we yell; they're asking us to calm down and connect.
• Children who are always rebelling usually need to feel more powerful, competent, and respected.
• Children who disrespect us are showing that they don't feel enough connection, warmth and respect from us.
• Children who lie to us feel afraid.

What behavior bothers you most from your own child? That behavior is an SOS. Here are 7 questions to help you decode and respond.

1. What is the behavior that bothers you?

2. What’s the first thing that pops into your head about what’s behind this SOS from your child? (What need or feeling might your child be acting out? Connection? Autonomy? Sleep?)

3. What actions could you take to answer your child’s SOS? Make a list.

4. Notice how your own fear gets in the way of meeting your child's needs. (For instance, if he's suddenly talking baby talk, do you feel a need to correct him, or can you respond to his temporary need to be babied?) Breathe into that fear and let it go. Once we meet our kids' needs, our child can move on. When we deny needs, the child stays stuck.

5. Make a plan to take at least one of those actions every day for a week. (It might be the same action over and over.)

6. Notice your child's behavior change. What have you learned about his or her needs?

7. What will you do differently in the future?

Five Minute Friday - Joy

YAY! It's Friday! These are the days that I link up with Lisa Jo Baker on her Five Minute Friday writing challenge. 

Today's word is Joy. Here goes:

Joy. I can think of all of the standard cliches when it comes to Joy. Some of them are true: Jesus Others You (JOY) is the way to find Joy in your life. Joy is an inner state, happiness is circumstantial. 

Here's where I find Joy. My daughter, who is growing up into the most amazing little girl. Am I allowed to still call her that? She's not still 'little,' yet she's so far from being grown up. She has such a love for others. We were at church last Sunday, and the worship was geared towards children's church camp. They gave an overview and showed pictures of past years. This little girl of mine, who is generally so timid and shy, looked at me with a sparkle in her eye, and a joyful expression on her face and said, "Momma, I want to go!" She's never stayed with anyone but family for 3 nights...but she wrote in her journal that night that she so desperately wants to go. She wrote that 'it seems like kids really meet Jesus there (well, not face-to-face), but they get to know Him better and I want to get to know Him better.' WOW! This Momma heart was just. about. to. burst. when she allowed me to read her vulnerable words.

My son, who is turning into a young man right before my eyes. When he got home from school yesterday, he mentioned that he had hurt someone's feelings in school. So, I gave it the attention it needed. We discussed it, then I thought we were done. Later, when he came out of the bathroom after his bath and was in his pj's and was at his most open, he was crying. I asked him what was wrong, and he said, 'Momma, I really hurt some people's feelings today.' Then he continued to cry. I held him, I prayed over him, we talked about it, and I consoled his little boy broken heart. I told him that God is so proud of him right now for understanding and realizing that he may have hurt someone. I told him that Jesus and the Holy Spirit are for sure living in his little boy heart, for him to be feeling this way. Again, a bursting Momma heart.

These examples are only two of the many that I could share with you. I have so many words I could share about my children. I have so many emotions that pulse through me on a daily basis. I know my kids are far from perfect; I've witnessed it. But this Momma is surely joy-filled when events such as these occur under my watch. I'm doing something right...maybe not too many things, but I am pointing them to the one true source of Joy in this world: Jesus. And if that's the only thing they learn from me, well, then I have equipped them the best I know how. 

Have a fabulous Friday! Spring is upon us. 

Tony Evans - The Saga of Single Parenting

Today in my Facebook news feed, I came across a blog post by Tony Evans. He titled it, "The Saga of Single Parenting."

There was one thing that stood out and gave me hope.

     In the post, Tony says: "The greatest thing you can do is have a passion for God, because single mother, when you have a passion for God youhave Someone who will be a Father to your child and a Husband and protector to you."

That gives me hope because if I only have a passion for God, then He will meet my every need in Christ. 

Here's the link to his full post. It's definitely worth the read. 
     http://tonyevans.org/2014/03/the-saga-of-single-parenting/

Have a blessed night, dear readers. 

God's Plan vs. The Enemy's Plan

Imagination vs. Knowledge

Fatherlessness - An Epidemic

An article came through my email and I wanted to share it with my readers. The link is below.

What struck me were these thoughts:

     "The assumption that the father is of little use in the home and lives of children is costly. This mindset is especially unfortunate because the church has adopted it, at the very least, in practice, even in Reformed circles. We reveal this when we show little care for those without fathers. If we can agree that the fatherless should be considered orphans, and even the children with absentee dads, does the church have a responsibility?"

     "If the church wants to bring up young male and female leaders in their congregations and effectively evangelize their city, they must address the issue of fatherlessness"

      "It takes men and families building relationships with kids and young adults intentionally looking for spiritual sons and daughters to adopt “unofficially.” To our surprise, I think we’d find most kids and young adults with absent fathers would be open to older godly men acting as a spiritual father in their lives. These relationships need to be developed patiently, with the local church encouraging and supporting this initiative in the context of discipleship."

The entire article is worth the read. Because I grew up without my father as a constant presence, I know what a difference a dad makes! Fortunately, he and I have established a relationship in my adult years. However, I know that I would have made some very different choices if I had someone in my youth, who was instructing me on how to value myself. It has made me stronger, for sure, but, it's not anything I want my daughter to go through, if avoidable.

Fortunately, I'm not naive to the difference a Godly man makes in the life of children and have made every real effort to find a 'substitute' father, or someone to fill in the gaps in their lives. (Notice I said Godly. I could find and use just any Joe Schmo to spend time with my kids, but the real value and reward comes in finding someone who fears God.)

Unfortunately, I had to look outside of my church home. Not due to lack of effort on my part. The real treasure in this is that I know who has stepped up to "unofficially" adopt my children. They are the true heroes here.

As a side note, my father has become a devoted believer, so, if it took my childhood experiences to produce the grandpa that my kids have, well, then so be it. It was worth every tear shed.

As promised, here is the link: http://www.desiringgod.org/blog/posts/finding-the-fatherless-a-call-to-fill-the-gap

Have a wonderfully blessed Wednesday!

'Singled' Out

Lately, I've felt 'singled' out. Truly, as though because I'm a single mother, I'm a single woman, that somehow, I'm not worthy. I've felt that I don't have as much to contribute to any cause; that I don't matter as much...in the eyes of the world.

I'm not part of a couple. I can't go on double-dates with other couples. I don't have a 'better half' to fix things around my house or to send on errands when I just don't feel like going to the grocery store. I don't have someone else that can entertain the kids while I take 10 minutes to myself.

I know that in the eyes of the world, I may not be 'complete.' But the truth is that in God's eyes and in His viewpoint, I matter just as much as everyone else, if not more...simply because I'm doing it all by myself.

I've been reading through my bible and I'm on course to finish it in a year. I just completed the book of Joshua this morning. I noticed something as I was reading this book. This book is powerful stuff! In the book, Joshua and his armies battle neighboring lands in order to receive the Promised Land that The Lord is to deliver to them. Therefore, it's only natural that you would find uplifting and encouraging words. There are 24 chapters and 658 verses in this book.

Of these 658 verses, there is some repetition. Where there is repetition, you know God is trying to get a message across to His people.

In the book of Joshua, you find the phrase, "Be strong and courageous" or some variation of, six times! It's in the following passages: 1:6, 1:7, 1:9, 1:18, 10:25, 23:6.

In the book of Joshua, you find the phrase, "Do not be afraid" or some variation of, five times! It's in the following passages: 1:9, 8:1, 10:8, 10:25, 11:6.

In the book of Joshua, you find the phrase, "Do not be discouraged" or some variation of, three times. It's in the following passages: 1:9, 8:1, 10:25.

Now, I don't know about you, but it seems that God is trying to get a message across to Joshua (and you and me!). All of these phrases and the many times they are repeated, indicate to me, that I should be strong and courageous and that I should not be afraid or discouraged in my 'single-ness.'

I shouldn't be discouraged that I am 'singled' out, because it means that My God has taken notice of me! I shouldn't be afraid that I've been set apart; after all, aren't we told that to be 'holy' means to be set apart? And being 'singled' out is to be set apart.

YES! I think that I will begin to rejoice in being 'singled' out! I will begin to shout for JOY when I remember that My God has thought enough of me to 'single' me out; to set me apart, to consecrate me for His use and His purposes...to make me holy for His glory. 

Five Minute Friday - Crowd

TGIF! I'm excited to be here with you again on a Friday; writing the Five Minute Friday Challenge by Lisa Jo Baker.

This week the prompt is 'crowd.'

To my Emma: my one prayer is that you be strong enough to stand up to the crowd. That you are able to pave your own way and know in your core what's right and wrong. I just read this morning of a 16 year old that ended up so close to death because she decided to raid her father's liquor cabinet with her cousin. She had 2 beers and 6 shots...her blood alcohol level was high enough to kill a grown man. I pray you will know and understand that at 16, you have no business messing around with things which can impair you in this manner. She followed the crowd.

I also read of a young girl who decided she didn't want to follow the crowd. She had taken her younger sister bra shopping and was so disgusted at the 'options' available to her sister, that she decided to create her own bra for the preteen and teenage girls who aren't looking to have their cup sizes 'enlarged'...there's enough time for that...trust me. She didn't follow the crowd.

To my Elijah: my one prayer is that you have a voice that others will follow. That others will be drawn to you and you will lead them on the path of righteousness. That you will not succumb to the society's objectification of women; that you would see we are all beautiful in our own right. That you will be a Godly man in this God-less world and you will stand up for the 'weaker' sex.

I pray that you will understand what it really means to be a superhero. That it's not about the glory received, but rather the glory given to our Creator that really matters.

My overwhelming desire in life is that I show you both what it means to stand out from the crowd. To go after what you desire, but all the while, showing kindness and compassion to those around you. To fight for your beliefs and never. give. up. while being a voice of encouragement. The world needs more of that.

My prayer is, in its basest form, that you will recognize the crowd for what it is and remember that God made you to be unique. We aren't all meant to be alike and following along the same path.

I'll love you forever. I'll like you for always. As long as I'm living, my babies you'll be...

Love,
Your Momma

Catching Fire, the Real Enemy, and Our Weapons

With the release of 'The Hunger Games: Catching Fire' on disk yesterday, I think it's only fitting to use this movie to illustrate a point.

For those of you who aren't familiar with the book, and now movie, series, Katniss is the main female character and Peeta is the main male character. They were victors in a modern Gladiator-style 'game' in the first move 'The Hunger Games.' In the second movie, 'Catching Fire,' they are sent back to the game or arena, with the other remaining victors to viciously battle it out. One other important character, played by Woody Harrelson, is Haymitch, their mentor. It is his job to help prepare them, physically, mentally, and emotionally, for the battle.

Ok, now that you're mostly up to speed, here's where things get good. In Catching Fire, Haymitch is prepping Katniss for the arena. She is just beside herself that she has to go back, since winning the games has generally bought you a ticket out of future games. In her thinking, she views all of the other contestants as the enemies. She is trying to get herself in the mindset that, in order for her to win again, she will need to kill all of the others.

During one scene, Haymitch tells her, "Katniss, when you're in the arena...you just remember who the enemy is."

See, Haymitch wanted her to remember that the other contestants in the 'game' are forced to be there, just like she is. They don't want to kill any more than she does. They are pawns in the government's game just as she is.

I think that we believers could take a cue from Haymitch to remember who the real enemy is. We need to remember who we are truly fighting against. Recall what Ephesians 6:12 tells us:

     "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."

In his commentary, Matthew Henry says that, "The combat is not against ordinary human enemies, not merely against people made up of flesh and blood." See, most people think that the people we encounter during our daily lives or our arena, are 'out to get us' or are being difficult because that's who they are to their core. But that's not the truth. The truth is that they are simply pawns in the enemy's games. He is using them to achieve his purposes.

Matthew Henry goes on to say, "Our enemies fight to prevent our ascent to heaven...because we grapple with spiritual enemies; we also need faith in our Christian work, because we need to draw in supplies of spiritual strength." The devil wants nothing more than to keep you, yes YOU, out of heaven. He wants to see you suffering an eternal damnation, separated from God.

Because we are fighting this battle, we need to have supplies of our spiritual strength. Which is where Paul further goes on to tell us in verses 13-17 to put on the full armor of God so that we can stand our ground. He instructs us to stand firm with the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, feet fitted with readiness that comes from the gospel of peace, and to take up the shield of faith. Finally, he tells us to take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit.

All of these weapons prepare us for the spiritual warfare that is going on around us and within us.

We, as believers, need to remember the words of our Savior Jesus Christ, found in John 10:10, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."

It is not the desire of our loving, heavenly Father that we would perish or that we would fall prey to the enemy. He desires that we would come into a relationship with Him and draw upon His strength, use the weapons we have available to us, and bring others to Him.

Ephesians 6:17 instructs us to, "Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."

Fellow believers, lets put on the full armor of God this morning and attack the real enemy and not one another.

Five Minute Friday - Willing

Today's Five Minute Friday topic is willing...so here goes, 5 minutes straight of writing, no questioning, no second guessing, no stopping and reading...

Willing - am I willing to do all of the things I need to do to be effective and good as a person and especially as a mother? Am I willing to be changed and molded into what Jesus has for me?

One thing that sticks out in my mind is the phrase, "Who you are at home is who you are." Well, I can honestly say that I don't like that person from the past few days. Two nights ago, my children were being their creative selves. Elijah was working on his Pinewood Derby car and Emma wanted to paint as well, so I found a little wooden crate for her to paint. 

Now, let me tell you that Emma has expressed an interest in art. Me? Not so much; sure, I can appreciate art, but I am not creatively inclined. So, as she is painting and being creative, she gets excited about some paint brushes I found. After she pulls out the one she wants, she puts the case down...right in the paint...oh BOY was I frustrated!

So, naturally, I expressed my frustration in exasperated sighs...which she saw and heard. And then, when she got up, I noticed a blob of green paint right where she was painting...again, exasperated sighs...which she saw and heard.

Now, fortunately (for me AND her) this was as bad as it got. There was no yelling, no temper tantrums (from the momma)...just exasperated sighs.

I felt God convicting me...so, the following morning, I apologized to her. I apologized for making her feel as though her mistakes were the end of the world. For making her feel as though she's not ALLOWED to make mistakes (never mind the fact that I make about a gazillion of them DAILY - that's another topic for another day). I apologized for stifling her creativity by making her feel that her work space had to be perfect. I even shared with her that it was so easy to wipe up, since the paint was still wet. And even if it hadn't been, it was WATER-BASED PAINT! 

And then I gushed about how incredibly awesome her creation is. I told her that I wanted to start seeds in it...and put it on display for all of the world to see. And I shared with her that I love her creativity and how I wish I had some of it!

Then I began to think about the phrase "Who you are at home is who you are." I don't want to be the one who is so bent on the rules and things being 'just so' that my kids can't express themselves.

So, today, I'm going to be a little more WILLING to bend. A little more WILLING to just let. things. go. A little more WILLING to focus on the relationship and a little less focused on the rules. Because that's who I want to be...at home and in the world. 

What about you? What areas do you feel the Lord calling you to be more willing in? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Five Minute Friday (on Saturday) - Choose

This week's Five Minute Friday writing challenge is on the word 'Choose' so I got to thinking about all of the things I get to choose.

The things I get to choose can be minor, like, I get to choose when I will get out of bed in the morning. I get to choose what I will wear. I get to choose what I will eat for breakfast.

The things I get to choose can also be major, like, I get to choose where we will live. I get to choose what school my children will attend. I get to choose what church we will go to, or even IF we will go to church. I get to choose how to raise my children.

See, all of the things I get to choose will somehow affect another. So, that leads me to question, what are the things I am choosing? Will they benefit another? Or will they tear another down? What are the words I'm choosing? 

We, as women, and especially as mothers, have upwards of a hundred thousand choices per day. Where are the things I'm choosing leading me? Are they leading me for greatness? Are they leading me and my loved ones down a path of destruction?

The bible tells us in Matthew chapter 7 to "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." (v. 13-14).

So, are the things I get to choose leading me down the wide and broad road that leads to destruction? Or do the things I get to choose, those seemingly minor and those major, leading me and my loved ones through the small gate and down the narrow road?

Five Minute Friday - Small

They are small. In size. But yet they are so big in my heart. My two beautiful children.

They are smart, they are sassy, they are my reason for living, for thriving, for surviving.

They are small. But the moments are BIG in meaning.

The small, everyday, ordinary moments which translate into one big lifetime of occasions and memories.

These small moments of breakfast at the island in our kitchen. Our kitchen that I LOVE preparing meals for them in.

These small moments of devotions at dinner time, which turn into small stories of our days. Small stories, small days, in the BIG story of our BIG God.

Oh how I hope that my small moments make for BIG meaning in the lives of my children. Who are small. In size. But yet they are so big in my heart. My two beautiful children.