Tuesday, August 31, 2010

A book of thoughts

“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5

Have you ever read a book complied of people’s thoughts? And I am not talking about people’s opinions I am talking about thoughts that are never said.

I don’t know if such a thing even exists, but if it did I would read it. Not because I want to know what people are thinking, well maybe a little, but because I might actually find some relieve knowing others have the same kind of thoughts that I do. And even though my husband says no one thinks like I do, I beg to differ.

If I were to write down every thought that passed through my mind and put out for the public eye to read, it would be scary, embarrassing, funny, shameful, and sad.

And though no one knows what the other is thinking there is one who does. He knows my every thought from far away. He knows all the scary, embarrassing, funny, shameful and sad thoughts that run through my mind. And yet He still loves me and accepts me.

But He will not tolerate any thoughts that take away from Him, are unloving, or sinful. That is why I must take captive EVERY thought and make it obedient to Christ. So for the next week I am going to write down every passing thought (not to share, maybe a few) but to take hold of, bring before the Lord and confess.

Anyone struggle with their thoughts? If so, I hope you will join me in taking our thoughts captive.

Prayer: Lord make me aware of every thought that is displeasing to You. Help me to take these thoughts captive and make them obedient to You. Amen




Monday, August 30, 2010

This I have known but today I have done!

“Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts.” Joel 2:12

Just today the Lord opened my heart to an area of sin that I have been holding on to, nurturing, feeding, and focusing on for some time now. It is an area that has caused a lot of pain, sadness, anger, frustration and bitterness in my life.  This area has consumed my thoughts, actions, speech, and behavior. Satan has taken full advantage of this sin and has caused lots of dissension to arise.

For the longest time I have believed that I was doing what I was supposed to do, but I wasn’t. I was putting blame on others for my own poor actions. I was the one at fault. I took things into my own hands instead of turning to God and letting Him tend to my heart.  

But today my friends, the Lord removed the veil from my eyes, grabbed my hand and led me to the deepest part of my heart where the sin began. From there He showed me that the driving force behind my actions and behavior was because of a thing called jealousy. This moment for me was so devastating, embarrassing, and shameful. But from this bad has now come good!

As I walked in the darkness of this area I began to confess and admit my sins before Him. And some amazing things happened. I began to experience God’s grace, His mercy, and His forgiveness and I mean for the first time I have felt His grace, mercy, and forgiveness go from my mind straight to the place they belong, my heart. They have finally moved the 6 inches!

The good keeps going; His light than began to penetrate through the darkness bringing a peace that is still surpassing my understanding and Satan has finally been put in his place.

God has been telling me now for a solid week; turn to me now, while there is time, give me your heart. And it has taken up to today for me to finally let my guard down, swallow my pride, remove the stubbornness and see that I was the one needing to turn to Him and give Him my heart so He could bring healing and freedom.

I now know more than ever that for healing to begin I must allow God to take me to the darkest places within me. The places where I close Him off, the places in my heart where I have shoved hurt, shame, pride, and sin and closed the door. I must give Him ALL areas of my heart and ALL the control. This I have known but today I have done!

Prayer: There is victory in You, Jesus my Savior forever. You have lead me to a place I have longed for healing and freedom. I turned to You and gave You my heart and in return You healed it, clothed it, and filled it with Your love, mercy, and grace. Thank You Jesus! Amen



Sunday, August 29, 2010

Used

“Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts.” Joel 2:12

Do you have or know people in your life that only come to you when it benefits them? How does it make you feel? It makes me feel used!

How do you think it makes God feel when you only come to Him when it benefits you?

God said turn to me now, while there is time and give me your hearts. Give me all of you, come to me all the time whether it benefits you or not. For I am the Creator of ALL things and I want to be worshiped and honored with ALL of you.

“You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.” Matthew 22:37

Prayer: Lord I never want to use You for my own benefit. I never want to come to You only when I need something. I want to give You all of me, I want to be in constant communication and fellowship with You always. Amen


Saturday, August 28, 2010

U-Turn

“Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts.” Joel 2:12

A car can only go forward or backwards, but never at the same time. A car can never go in two different directions at the same time either. In order for a car to begin traveling in a different direction it must be turned and made to go that way.

Our Spiritual lives are very similar to the ability of a car. We can either go forward or backward but never at the same time. We also cannot go in two different directions at the same time.  In order for us to begin traveling in a new direction we too must be turned and made to go that way.

There are only two directions we can travel, the direction of heaven or the direction of hell. Though we all begin traveling in the direction of hell we have also been given the opportunity to make a U-Turn and travel in the direction of heaven.

This was made possible by the Creator Himself when He sent His Son to die on the cross for each of us. It is that very cross that allows us to turn our Spiritual cars (hearts) around.

We each have a choice, when we come to the “light” we can either keep traveling in the direction of hell, or we can make a U-turn, by confessing with our mouths that Jesus is Lord, and begin traveling in the direction of heaven.

Which direction are you going?

Prayer: Lord take control of our Spiritual cars and drive us in the direction that leads to You. Amen







Friday, August 27, 2010

Have you realized it?



“Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts.” Joel 2:12

Here is a question for you to ponder for a while, and because the Lord has placed it so heavily on my heart I will ask it three times, in three different ways, hoping that by the third time it will begin to take root within you. And I pray that you will allow the Holy Spirit to begin a work within you.

  • Don’t you realize how kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Or don’t you care? Can’t you see how kind he has been in giving you time to turn from your sin? Romans 2:4 NLT



  • “Or did you think that because he’s such a nice God, he’d let you off the hook? Better think this on through from the beginning. God is kind, but he’s not soft. In kindness he takes us firmly by the hand and leads us into a radical life-change.” Romans 2:4 MSG



  • “Or is it nothing to you that God had pity on you, wanting and putting up with you for so long, not seeing that in his pity God’s desire is to give you a change of heart?” BBE
    Prayer: Thank You Father for Your kindness towards us sinners, thank You for being patient with such stubborn, selfish people such as me. Thank You Lord for being so tolerant of me and allowing me to turn from my sinful ways and turn to You. Help me to take advantage of this time You are giving me, may I never take it for granted. Amen

    Thursday, August 26, 2010

    Our daily reminder

    “Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts.” Joel 2:12

    Lord I could express my opinion over and over about the importance of turning to You before it is too late, but I know there is no better way to express the importance of turning to You than by using Your word.

    Prayer:

    So today Lord I pray the same prayer David prayed for all my brothers and sisters and for all those who are lost and confused.

    Lord remind us how brief our time on earth will be. Remind us that our days are numbered-how fleeting our life is. You have made our lives no longer than the width of our hands. Our entire lifetime is just a moment to you; at best each of us is but a breath. We are merely moving shadows, and all our busy rushing ends in nothing. (Psalm 39:4-6)

    Lord teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom. (Psalm 90:12) Remind us daily that our days on earth are like grass; like wildflowers, we bloom and die. The wind blows, and we are gone as though we had never been here. But Your love O’ Lord remains forever with those who fear You. (Psalm 103:15-17)

    Lord capture the hearts of the lost, open their eyes to see Your love and mercy. Place within all of us the urgency to share the Good the News and the urgency to tell everyone that You are coming soon.

    Hasten the day Lord Jesus!

    Wednesday, August 25, 2010

    What are you waiting on?

    "Turn to me now while there is time! Give me your hearts." Joel 2:12

    The Lord gives us many opportunities to turn to Him. He does not force it upon us, instead He lays it out before us in His word and then gives us the choice. We can wait until we hit rock bottom, which unfortunately is the place a lot of us have to come in order for our stubborn hearts to become softened and for our eyes to be opened. For some, it is to late. For many it will be to late.


    What is keeping you from turning your life over to the Lord? What is keeping you from giving Him complete control? What is it in your life that is taking precedence over the Lord?

    What are you waiting for? I urge you today with the love of Christ and with a burden so great to turn to Christ now!

    Heaven is forever and so is the burning fire of hell!

    Prayer: Lord help us to understand the great importance of giving our lives to You now! May we wait no longer. Amen


    Tuesday, August 24, 2010

    We are all going to die one day!

    "Turn to me now while there is time! Give me your hearts." Joel 2:12

    Are you ready...

    How would Christ find us if He came right now? Would He find us working wholeheartedly for Him?

    Would he find us ready and waiting or would he find us scrambling around or maybe even missing?

    Why, how have we become such people that wait until the last minute to run to God, to seek God? Why do we wait until tragedy strikes or until death is knocking on our door to turn to Him.

    My dearest friends we must turn to God NOW! We must seek Him NOW. We must serve Him, obey Him, accept Him NOW!

    Prayer: Lord forgive us for procrastinating! May we not wait any longer. Amen

    Monday, August 23, 2010

    His big gulp's and servants heart.

    "When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the way to where I am going."  John 13:3-4

    His love for life was contagious. He could always make you smile with his funny jokes and silly quirks. But it was not those two things I loved the most. It was the love he had for a woman who stole his heart, six kids, and over a dozen grandkids and great grandkids.

    It was his servant’s heart and his big gulps that captured my heart. He spent a majority of my growing up life traveling hand and hand with the love of his life to basketball games, graduations, births, birthdays, and just causes.   

    He would brighten your day with the sweetness of his divinity, and put fire in your belly with his fire hot cinnamon suckers made in all kinds of shapes.

    His love for people was so natural. It didn’t matter who you were, if you needed an ear…his was there. If you needed a family…he opened his. If you needed comfort…his arms could wrap twice around you. If you needed help…he always provided a hand.

    His greatest joys in life came every Christmas when dozens of people would flood his home. He would do the entertaining and she would cook the best biscuits and gravy in the county. His lap was big enough to seat as many of his own kids and their kids that could squeeze up there.

    He showed my mom, her brothers, and her sisters what it meant to be a family. It was to love, to be there for each other no matter what, where, when, or why. I too have been blessed to have learned that from him and am now passing that on to my own family.

    This man was a walking display of gentleness, kindness, and peace loving. He fought hard for the things he believed in and he fought hard for the people he loved.

    Beyond all of that, this man taught and showed me what unconditionally love looked like. And it came at a time when the Lord knew I needed to see it the most. Almost six years ago when the woman who could make him madder than mad and happier than happy became ill, he never left her side. Literally! He never showed anger, frustration, weakness, or tiredness. Only unconditional Jesus type love.

    I will never forget there in the hospital, in a bed made for one was a woman short and petite cradled in the arms of a six foot 3 man.  It didn’t matter then nor did it matter ever before he was always holding her hand.

    On August 21, 2010 this man known as my “Papa” has gone to the place I long to go and is standing in the presence of the one I can’t wait to meet. He is now hand in hand with Christ alone.

    He is no longer tired nor weak, sick nor hungry. He now is joyful and complete, walking down the streets of gold singing and praising the one who has made him whole.               

    Sunday, August 22, 2010

    The Mirror of Christ

    “And all of us have had that veil removed so that we can be mirrors that brightly reflect the glory of the Lord. And as the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him and reflect his glory even more.” 2 Corinthians 3:18

    If you were a mirror and on one side you were looking in and the other side was your reflection, what would people see as you walked towards them? Would they see sin and self, or would they see Christ?

    It is the mirror of choice, the cream of the crop, and the best on the market. It is free and the benefits of this mirror are like no other mirror out there.

    If one were to choose this mirror they would be choosing to see themselves for who they really are a sinner. They would see areas of sin that need tending to. They would be cleansed, purified, and pruned. All while seeing the love and time that was spent by the one who made them.

    Some benefits of this mirror are it requires no light, the light is built in. In fact this light is so bright it can shine even in the darkest places, and the light will never burn out or lose its power. But it will be only as useful as one allows it to be.

    The reflection is brighter and unlike any other reflection known to man. It displays a beauty so captivating, a love so desired, tenderness so comforting, mercy so undeserved, a type of forgiveness that is mesmerizing, and a peace that is indescribable.

    This mirror will always work for you and not against you. It is the Mirror of Christ.

    Those who choose this mirror are those who have received Christ, are faithful, obedient, have pure hearts, hunger for Christ, have had the veil removed, spend daily time in prayer and His word. They confess and repent of their sins daily are dedicated to serving Christ wholeheartedly and have a passion to share with others what Christ has done for them.

    Those using this mirror must be prepared to stand out, be left out, and asked about.  


    Prayer: Lord today and every day I want to pick up the Mirror of Christ. I want this mirror to be used so much that it becomes an addiction, a habit. I never want to go back to those other mirrors again. So I ask Lord that You give me the strength and discernment right away when I begin to slip. Amen 

    Saturday, August 21, 2010

    The Cracked Mirror

    “And all of us have had that veil removed so that we can be mirrors that brightly reflect the glory of the Lord. And as the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him and reflect his glory even more.” 2 Corinthians 3:18

    If you were a walking mirror, and on one side you looked in and the other side was the reflection, what would people see as you came towards them?  Would they see the world, sin, and self, or would they see Jesus? 

    They want to have the best of both worlds, so much they are able to adjust their behavior and speech according to the people they are around and the environment they are in. They want to do what is right yet they want to satisfy their flesh.

    All while also trying to do what they think is right. They go to church, pray, and say all the right things.

    These people carry around a mirror that is cracked right down the center.

    On one side they will party with one group and talk about Jesus with another group. They will confess their love for Jesus in one breath and curse someone in the next breath. They will gamble, drink, go to places they shouldn’t and show up to teach on Sunday’s. All while justifying their actions.

    Now on the other hand you might have those who do the less obvious but are still just as guilty. They might hold a grudge, cause dissension, are bitter, disrespect their spouses, easily angered, lie, cuss, judge, gossip, are unforgiving, watch inappropriate TV shows, and/or neglect spending time with Christ. They too are able to justify their actions.

    We aren’t addicted, we aren’t causing others to stumble (that you know of), nowhere does God say it is wrong, it’s mentioned in the Bible so it must be okay, and Jesus did it. Not all of us have the same convictions. Well, we are not perfect, neither is anyone else. (You are right…still bad excuse), it was a white lie, well if he/she would be more loving I would show them more respect, I just don’t have enough time in my day. It’s not that bad of a word, etc.

    This mirror gives off the reflection of a lukewarm Christian. It gives those who see it the impression that it is okay to straddle both God and the world.

    But do you know the problem with that? It is a disgusting taste in the Father’s mouth.
    I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold.  I wish you were one or the other!  But since you are like lukewarm water, I will spit you out of my mouth!  Revelation 3:15-16
      
    It’s time for us to pick whether we are going to be for Christ or for the World.

    Romans 6:12-13 " Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to its lustful desires. Do not let any part of your body become a tool of wickedness, to be used for sinning. Instead give yourselves completely to God since you have been given new life. And use your whole body as a tool to do what is right for the glory of God."
      
    Prayer: Lord forgive us for being lukewarm, may we decide today that we are for You, with You, and all about YOU! Amen

    Friday, August 20, 2010

    The Mirror of Doubt

    “And all of us have had that veil removed so that we can be mirrors that brightly reflect the glory of the Lord. And as the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him and reflect his glory even more.”  2 Corinthians 3:18

    If you were a walking mirror, and on one side you looked in and the other side was the reflection, what would people see as you came towards them?  Would they see the world, sin, and self, or would they see Jesus? 

    “Lord if you can really do all you say you can, then I ask that You please heal me.”

    This was a prayer prayed by a young mother who was just diagnosed with cancer. She has two healthy vibrant little kids and a hardworking, loving husband.

    As her and her husband made their way home from the doctor that day she immediately began to hold the mirror of doubt. Doubt that God could and would deliver and heal her.

    As for many of us we too pick up this mirror of doubt. Our situation might not be as life changing as this young woman’s, but to each of us, there are situations in our lives when we begin to question the power and faithfulness of the Lord. Maybe it is our jobs, a miscarriage, a broken marriage, an illness, a death, so on and so forth.

    Whatever the reason, the reflection reveals our limited knowledge of the Almightiness of God and our lack of complete dependence on God.  

    What is it that causes us to hold this mirror of doubt-Satan. Satan wants our reflection to cause others to stumble, to begin to doubt God’s power and love, and to question God.

    Our God is a huge God who can do far more than we could ever begin to comprehend. He supplies our needs in ways we cannot even imagine, and in spite of our doubts He never fails to follow through and He always calms the storms and brings us safely ashore.

    James compares the mirror of doubt to an unsettled wave. “But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do.” James 1:6-8

    Are you in the middle of a storm and all that people see reflecting from you is doubt?

    We always have to remember, Christ, through all His suffering, never doubted whether or not His Father would deliver Him. Nor should we…we will be delivered, we will be healed, maybe not in the way we expect, but in the way that is best for us and according to the will of God.

    Prayer: Lord give us the type of faith that can move mountains. Lord may we live in confident dependence and trust in You no matter the storm. Amen

    Thursday, August 19, 2010

    The Mirror of Self

    “And all of us have had that veil removed so that we can be mirrors that brightly reflect the glory of the Lord. And as the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him and reflect his glory even more.” 2 Corinthians 3:18

    If you were a walking mirror, and on one side you looked in and the other side was the reflection, what would people see as you came towards them?  Would they see the world, sin, and self, or would they see Jesus?

    It is the most commonly used mirror in our world today. It is the dreadful mirror of self. This mirror does two things;

    It stares back with power; it is a close-up view that reflects our pores. You know those deep disgusting pores filled with black heads (black heads- are the beginning and root of sin. When they are not treated they surface leaving a big ole’ white head (I know that is disgusting but so is untreated sin.) 

    And, it is a reflection of the world, self-pleasure, pride, selfishness, jealousy, bitterness, hate, gossip, death, demanding of our own way and anything else that is all about us and not about Christ or others.

    The thing I hate the most about this mirror is how often I myself pick it up. All our mirrors upset Christ but this one can cost us our eternal life.

     Luke 9:23 says, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must put aside your selfish ambition, shoulder your cross daily and follow me. If you try to keep your life for yourself, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for me, you will find true life." 

    When we begin to act off of our feelings it is because we are holding the mirror of self.

    When we become more worried about our appearance…mirror of self

    When we become more concerned about our status with others…mirror of self

    When we become money hungry…mirror of self.

    When we focus on our needs before others…mirror of self.

    When we do things that please our flesh…mirror of self.

    When we do anything to bring attention to ourselves…mirror of self.

     Is the handle on this mirror worn? If so, then you have been using it to much.

    Prayer: Jesus forgive us for using the mirror of self as much as we do. May we always see the cross and in this mirror and remember just how selfless You were. Amen

    Wednesday, August 18, 2010

    The Mirror of Anger

    “And all of us have had that veil removed so that we can be mirrors that brightly reflect the glory of the Lord. And as the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him and reflect his glory even more.” 2 Corinthians 3:18

    If you were a walking mirror, and on one side you looked in and the other side was the reflection, what would people see as you came towards them?  Would they see the world, sin, and self, or would they see Jesus?

    She was the wife who had it all…until her husband left her for another woman.

    His didn’t begin until his best friend got the promotion over him and started receiving all the attention.

    Hers began at an early age toward her sister who was always better at everything.

    Theirs began when they lost their first child to cancer.

    His began when a drunk driver hit and killed his wife and daughter.

    Hers took root when she felt that first punch, slap across the face.

    Hers began when the sexual predator robbed her of her purity.

    Theirs began when he stopped being respected and when she stopped feeling loved.

    His began because of the lack of affection and attention he received from his dad growing up.

    His began when he realized nothing he did was ever good enough.

    Hers took root when her mom kept telling her she was to fat and asking why she wasn’t like so and so.

    There are many reasons we pick up the mirror of anger and to some good reason, but to those of us who pick it up out of jealousy, envy, and self…not so good, actually not good at all.

    When we look into this mirror we might have a smile on our face but the reflection shows what the inside of us looks like; bitter, annoyed, hurt, mad, jealous, and self-focused. Why, because our thoughts are consumed with the things and people that have offended us and from our thoughts come our attitude and from our attitude come’s our actions. The more we are around the people and things that anger us the longer we hold this mirror and the deeper anger takes root, thus making it even harder to put the mirror down.

    The book of James sums up the mirror of anger well, “What is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Don’t they come from the evil desires at war within you? You want what you don’t have, so you scheme and kill to get it. You are jealous of what others have, but you can’t get it, so you fight and wage war to take it away from them. Yet you don’t have what you want because you don’t ask God for it. And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong-you want only what will give you pleasure.” James 4:1-2

    Would that pretty much sum up why you have been carrying the mirror of anger around?

    The mirror of anger reflects a person who is lacking in mercy, grace, and forgiveness, all of which is the complete opposite of Christ.

    When one picks up and holds this mirror they should remind themselves of the mercy, love and forgiveness they receive daily from Christ.

    Prayer: Lord forgive us for picking up this mirror so often. Remind us of the mercy and love You give us each day. Most of all Father may we be reminded that we are not a mistake and that we are never alone. May we look to You for the attention, comfort, healing, and peace we need. Lord help us to take our thoughts captive and act of Your word and not our feelings. Amen

    Tuesday, August 17, 2010

    The Fog

    “And all of us have had that veil removed so that we can be mirrors that brightly reflect the glory of the Lord. And as the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him and reflect his glory even more.” 2 Corinthians 3:18

    If you were a walking mirror, and on one side you looked in and the other side was the reflection, what would people see as you came towards them?  Would they see the world, sin, and self, or would they see Jesus? 

    Have you ever driven in fog? If so, then you know how hard it is to see things from a distance. Most of the time if the fog is really heavy you never know what is in front of you until you are right up on it. This can cause lots of accidents if we are not using caution and paying close attention.

    The same goes with our reflection when we pick up the mirror of fogginess. When we look into the mirror we are able to see what is right in front of us, but to those who see our reflection see something quite different.

    They see a cloudy blurry vision of us. This is because we have lacked in the area of making our walk with Christ known. We get into the word or we go to church on Sunday’s but we never do anything more than that. It is not until people get right up to us that they can begin to see we are living in a blur ourselves.

    What causes us to pick up the mirror of fog? When we listen but don’t obey. “For if you listen and don’t obey, it is like looking at your face in a mirror but doing nothing to improve your appearance. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like.” James 1:23-24  

    There have been many times I have walked away from the word of God and have not the foggiest idea of what I had just read or what God was telling me to do. As a result of that my appearance or reflection never changed. I remained the same! If we ever wonder why things seem to be unclear to us, maybe God is showing us that our obedience is not where it should be.

    I do know that in order for the fog to lift, the sun must come out. In order for our reflection to become clear, our obedience to the Son must come out and be put into action. We should not settle for wanting to see only what is in front of us. We need to move past the fog and let the Son be our reflection.

    Prayer: Lord we know Satan wants nothing more than for You to be hidden in the fog and seen as a reflection to others as one who is blurry, clouded and confusing. But Lord we know better so we ask that You bring down Your Son and clear the fog. Amen

    Monday, August 16, 2010

    Anyone willing to share?

    "To discipline and reprimand a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child." Proverbs 29:15


    I was wondering if any of you would be willing to share what the Lord has taught you about discipline.

    Prayer: Lord teach and train us to become devoted followers of You. Amen

    Sunday, August 15, 2010

    You will always be... my baby, lover, and prince!

    To my sweetest Avery,

      Four years ago Jesus brought you into this world and placed you in my arms and it was a moment that took my breath away. Daddy and I fell madly in love with you, and we are still madly in love with you.

     Avery, mommy loves you so much. I cannot believe you are four years old today. My precious baby I pray that this day will be filled with so much joy, love, and laughter. I am so thankful to Jesus for finding me favorable enough to be your earthly mommy. I pray that as you and your brother continue to grow that you will also continue to grow in the wisdom and knowledge of Jesus Christ.

       I want nothing more for you than for you to love and hunger for Jesus as much as your daddy and I do. You sweet boy fill this home with more joy, laughter, excitement, and fun than you will ever know.

      I will never forget the morning I woke up to you laying on the floor face down praying. I pray you will have many more intimate days on your face before your Heavenly Father. Thank you for displaying Jesus at age 4! Thank you for teaching mommy what unconditional love and purity in Christ looks like.

        You are our sweet boy that has the biggest heart, you show no favoritism and you never want anyone to be left out. You want all people to receive the same amount of love. Some of my favorite moments are seeing you take care of your baby brother, you are so nurturing and Dax is truly blessed to have you!

       Avery you will always be mommy's baby,lover and prince and I hope you never get tired of telling me that, no matter how old you get! Thank you for being mommy's spider-man and saving me from the dragon's keep. I know every time you pray that prayer that Jesus smiles from ear to ear and so do I!

       Dear Jesus today I praise You for 4 years of Avery's life. I praise You for his health, his love, his laughter, his hugs, his kisses, his ability to run, walk, talk, hear and feel. I praise You for loving Garrett and I so much that You entrusted one of Your precious angels into our lives to raise according to Your word. I pray that as Avery continues to grow that he will grow in the knowledge and wisdom of You. I pray for Your biggest and strongest angels to surround him all the days of his life. Lord I ask that You fill him with wisdom beyond his years so he is able to discern right from wrong. I pray that You will place friends in his life who are as passionate about You as he is. Fill him with a burning desire to seek You and to study Your word. Thank You for shining through him in all the ways that You do. Thank You Jesus for creating such a beautiful, precious, smart, loving baby. Thank You for August 15, 2006 when he entered this world and was placed in my arms. That was a day Lord when You showed Garrett and I just how faithful, loving and mighty You are. May You show Avery the path where he should walk O' Lord. Point out the right road for him to follow, lead him by Your truth and teach him all the days of his life. Amen


    Happy Birthday my sweet, sweet baby, lover and prince!

    Mommy

    Saturday, August 14, 2010

    Discipline…discipline…and some more discipline

    "To discipline and reprimand a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child." Proverbs 29:15



    "Don’t fail to correct your children. They won’t die if you spank them. Physical discipline may well save them from death.” Proverbs 23:13

    If you refuse to discipline your children, it proves you don’t love them; if you love your children, you will be prompt to discipline them.” Proverbs 13:24

    My child, don’t ignore it when the Lord disciplines you, and don’t be discouraged when he corrects you. For the Lord corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights.” Proverbs 3:11-12

    Discipline your children while there is hope. If you don’t, you will ruin their lives.” Proverbs 19:18

    Teach your children to choose the right path, and when they are older, they will remain upon it.” Proverbs 22:6

    “To learn you must love discipline; it is stupid to hate correction.” Proverbs 12:1  

    “A youngster’s heart is filled with foolishness but discipline will drive it away.” Proverbs 22:15

    Here are just a few passages to show how important discipline is to the Lord…just in case you didn’t know!

    Prayer: Lord instill discipline within us. Amen





    Friday, August 13, 2010

    A by-product of me

    “To discipline and reprimand a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child.” Proverbs 29:15

    Today is such a somber day for me, my heart has become so saddened by a revelation the Lord has just revealed to me.

    My boys are a by-product of me. They are like lumps of clay that have been placed in my hands. And thus far I have shaped them to behave just as I behave.

    When I lose self-control… they lose self-control.

    When I yell… they yell.

    When they see me disrespect Garrett… they disrespect Garrett.

    When I am lazy… they are lazy.

    When I get frustrated… they get frustrated.

    If I tell them the moo-moo’s ate their pappy and he didn’t I am teaching them to lie.

    When I gripe and complain… they gripe and complain.

    If I am constantly putting myself down, I am teaching them self-condemnation.

    If I put Garrett down or others down, I am teaching them disrespect and gossip.

    If I have a negative attitude …they have a negative attitude.

    If I am impatient…they are impatient.

     If we watch a TV show that has cussing and inappropriate behavior, then I am allowing their eyes which is a lamp for their body (Matthew 6:22) to be filled with filth.

    I praise God for revealing this to me now and not when my boys are grown. I am so thankful to have such a loving Father who is willing to teach me the importance of the example I set for my children.

    You could say that it is I who has needed the most discipline this week.

    My boys spend every moment with me and I am the one who will answer to the Lord for the example I have set for them. I will either set the example that leads my boys to be heaven bound…or hell bound.

    I have been given one of the greatest responsibilities in this life and it is to shape and mold my two boys to be Christ-like, to love Christ first and foremost, to obey Him, respect Him, honor Him, and to love others. And it all begins at home... with me!!!!

    If you ever wonder why your children act and behave the way they do, stop and look at how you act and behave. 

    Prayer: Lord help my boys to become a by-product of You. Lord when my boys look at me, please let them see You. For then they will have the perfect example set before them. Lord thank You for loving me so much and opening my eyes to the importance of discipline and consistency.Amen



    Thursday, August 12, 2010

    How can we…

    “To discipline and reprimand a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child.” Proverbs 29:15

    How can we discipline our children if we ourselves are not willing to be disciplined?

    How can we expect our children to have self-control if we ourselves do not practice self-control?

    How can we ever expect our children to do what is right if we discipline them according to the worlds standards?

    How can we pass our God-given responsibility to discipline and instill Jesus Christ in our children onto others?

    How can we expect our children to know Christ if we don’t teach them at home?

    How can we expect our children not to lie, cuss, cheat, drink, steal, be angry, rude, disrespectful, have pre-marital sex, etc. when they see us do it at home?

    Should there be laughter at our child’s poor behavior? Christ doesn’t find it funny or cute.

    As my husband puts it best, there are three kinds of parenting:

    1. Parenting without Christ.
    2. Parenting that is lukewarm-one way at home and one way at church.
    3. Parenting that is Christ-like, God and Scripture centered.-this one takes work, discipline, consistency, and a love for Christ.
    Prayer: Lord instill Your word, love, and Your very presence within Garrett and I, so we can become the parents that You desire us to be. Parents that live and breathe You.Amen

    Wednesday, August 11, 2010

    Disciplining out of frustration or anger…it’s not right!



     “To discipline and reprimand a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child.” Proverbs 29:15!

    One of my biggest weaknesses in disciplining is doing it out of frustration. You know like when you are trying to pick up the house and they are messing it up as quickly as you pick up. Or when you are trying to get some work done for your actual job and they are pulling all your papers off your desk, opening the drawers, grabbing your pens, etc. My favorite is when they wait until you get on the phone and they begin yelling! I remind you they are 1 ½ and 3 ½ .

    At first I will react with calmness and self-control. The second time my frustration begins to creep up and I raise my voice a little louder, more stern, and give them a look. The third time frustration has taken complete control and I am now yelling like a crazy woman, getting in their face, and telling them the same thing I told them the first time only it is now their third warning. If you do it again I am going to spank you! (Yes I spank)

    Now I believe all of the above are good reasons to get on to them, but then there are the times when they are simply being boys that I get frustrated and lash out on them. And that is when it becomes a problem. Let me share with you a meeting Jesus called to order just today with me.

    There is a difference between disciplining My way and disciplining your way. You must be careful not to lash out on your children because they are getting on your nerves. To be honest Kristi there are many times you get on my nerves but I do not lash out and discipline you. Remember the purpose of Godly discipline is to teach your children right from wrong, so when they depart from you they will be able to discern it for themselves.

    When I the Lord discipline I do it out of love-always! “My child, don’t ignore it when the Lord disciplines you, and don’t be discouraged when he corrects you. For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes those he accepts as his children.” Hebrews 12:5-6

    Like I said yesterday, we are all learning a lot! Just as Christ does with me, disciplines me out of love, I want to do the same for my boys, discipline out of love not frustration or anger. If you really think about it the only reason we act out of frustration is because we in those moments are a little self-absorbed.

    Day two and we did not cross the tape one time!

    Prayer: Lord thank You that You do not discipline out of Your frustration because I would be non-existent. Lord help me to shape and mold these two precious gifts into godly men who are filled with wisdom, discernment, and respect. Amen


    Tuesday, August 10, 2010

    This mommy will not be disgraced!

    “To discipline and reprimand a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child.” Proverbs 29:15

    As a mother I have lacked consistency in the area of discipline and as a result I have allowed some bad behaviors to become rampant within my 2 year old. He is not a horrible child by any means; he just has gotten away with a little more than he should, which has resulted in less fear and respect.

    The Lord knows best and He knows this week needs to be a week of learning consistency and discipline and the importance of both. Not just in my four year old and two year old but also in me.

    My biggest prayer for my boys has always been that they will be filled with wisdom beyond their years, but in order for wisdom to develop there must be discipline and consistency.

    Okay so as of today with the help of my uncle we have started day one of boundaries. It begins by taping off an area I do not want the boys to be in, which would be the kitchen.

                
    Once the tape is up you tell them, we do not cross this tape. We don’t go under, over, or through it. Then this is where the consistency comes in. Once they cross that tape you pick them up without saying a word and place them in a special chair for two minutes while you stand behind them, still not saying a word. When the timer goes off you walk away.

    Can I just tell you that this has been the greatest thing EVER! Not just for the boys but for me as well, and I am happy to say we only had to sit in the special chair three times today!

    We are all getting something wonderful from it. My boys are learning boundaries and I am learning to actually follow through on something.  I am also learning self-control in the area of my tongue. Which the Lord knows I need thus aligning all this up as He did.

    Do you have some areas you are struggling to stay consistent in? Maybe it is your quite time or prayer life. Maybe you need to put up some boundaries in your own life boundaries that will keep you from falling into temptation, whatever it might be seek the Lord for help. Ask Him to help you desire Him more. Ask Him to help keep you from running through your boundary and into sin.

    “But the Lord’s plans stand firm forever; his intentions can never be shaken.” Psalm 33:11
    Prayer: Lord help me to imitate Your consistency. Help me to produce wisdom within my boys through consistency and discipline so they can grow up and discern right from wrong. Amen










    Monday, August 9, 2010

    Giving up ourselves

    "For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do what I want." John 6:38


    How has life been this last week knowing that your main purpose on earth is to do absolutely nothing but serve God and be like Christ?

    I have found it to be freeing, less stressful, more exciting, and a lot easier in decision making.

    I want to finish up this week with what I believe to be the second greatest purpose we have. Giving up ourselves.

    "If any of you wants to be my follower, you must put aside your selfish ambition, shoulder your cross, and follow me. If you try to keep your life for yourself, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for me, you will find true life." Matthew 16:24-25 

    This week take on the same mindset as Christ when He says, "For even I, the Son of Man, came here not to be served but to serve others, and to give my life as a ransom for many." Matthew 20:28

    Prayer: Lord thank You for teaching me this week that my purpose is ALL about You. 

    Sunday, August 8, 2010

    It’s just that simple

       ”For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do what I want.” John 6:38

    Lord You have created me and have called me to be:

    1. A child/woman of God that serves You, loves you, and honors you
    2. A part of the body of Christ that works together for Your good, Your glory, and to bring others to know You.
    3. A wife that honors and glorifies You by honoring, respecting, encouraging, and helping my husband.
    4. A mother that talks the talk and walks the walk. A mother that lives and breathes You and Your word and that teaches and instills Your word and love within my boys.
    5. A daughter that brings joy and honor to You by bringing joy and honor to her parents
    6.  A sister that listens first to You, so I in return can be a listener for them.
    7. A friend that loves, encourages, holds accountable, and listens. All of which is done through the Holy Spirit within me.
    8. A teacher that lives by example according to Your word, that speaks the truth, and one who always points to You at all times.
    9. A writer that writes when prompted by the Holy Spirit, which in returns brings Your amazing word to life.
    Lord You have sent me down from heaven to do Your will, not to do what I want.




    Saturday, August 7, 2010

    You have a purpose!

    “For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do what I want.” John 6:38

    Whether you are the groom that sweeps your new bride off her feet and carries her down the aisle or the husband that comforts your grieving wife who just buried her father. You have a purpose!

    Maybe you are a mom that has been interceding in prayer for your lost son who is addicted to drugs or your daughter who is 16 and pregnant. You have a purpose!

    Maybe you are mourning the death of a child, husband, or wife and you are so broken you can’t even lift up your head. You have a purpose!

    Maybe you are the mom, sister, husband, wife, brother, or father that holds the hand of your loved one as they receive the first injection of chemo into their body to fight the cancer that is trying so hard to take their life.  You have a purpose!

    Maybe you are the woman who is so desperate to be loved that you will do just about anything. You have a purpose!

    Maybe you have turned from God because you or a loved one has become ill or has died and you are angry. You have a purpose!

    Maybe you are the mother or father that has become so overwhelmed with the stresses of life that you have been contemplating suicide. You have a purpose!

    My sweet brethren you have a purpose! You have a purpose to run to the Son of God and believe in Him. Believe in the one who promises to help you, strengthen you, comfort you, and heal you. Believe in His unending love that surrounds every inch of your body.

    Believe Him when He promises to deliver you from the pain that entangles your soul.

    Your purpose is to stand under the wings of your Savior, believe in who He says He is, and believe He will do all He says He will do.

    Your purpose is not to question when tests and trials come your way, your purpose is to just believe wholeheartedly in the one who will guide you, protect you, comfort you, love you, and stand beside you.

    Your purpose is to share of the great things the Lord has done in you, through you, and for you. Your purpose is to be the hands and feet of Christ, your purpose is to comfort those who are hurting, mourn with those who are mourning, celebrate with those who are celebrating. Your purpose is to join in with other brothers and sisters interceding in prayer, and your purpose is to look at each person through the eyes of Christ.

    Prayer: Lord You alone are our purpose. You are the reason we exist! May we use our existence to fulfill Your very purpose for creating us. Amen

    Friday, August 6, 2010

    We are blessed to even get a piece

    "For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do what I want." John 6:38


    Here is a great Scripture to test your real motives for why you pursue the purpose in this world that you do.

     “Anyone who wants to do the will of God will know whether my teaching is from God or is merely my own. Those who present their own ideas are looking for praise for themselves, but those who seek to honor the one who sent them are good and genuine.” John 7:17-18

    You might find this week to be extremely repetitive, but we cannot choose a self-centered purpose in this world and expect great things to happen, believe me it will come to an end. Our purpose has to be God centered.

    If you are struggling with how to fulfill your God given purpose, try spending some time with Him in prayer and in His word. The more you search His word the more clear your purpose will become.

    Here is the bottom line-our purpose is to become more and more like Christ every second of our lives. Which means you just can’t have your cake and eat it to. It is Christ’s cake, He made it, and He gets to eat it, we just need to be thankful that we have a Heavenly Father who loves us enough to give us a piece.

    How many ways can your purpose be said?

    Prayer: Father thank You for sharing the most delicious piece of cake ever made. Forgive us for the times when we have tried to take the credit from You. Amen  

    Thursday, August 5, 2010

    Where do you seek purpose?

    “For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do what I want.” John 6:38

    Is your purpose self-motivated or Christ motivated?

    Do you search the world to find purpose and meaning for your life or do you search the word of God to find His purpose and meaning for your life?

    Do you notice when you try to fulfill your own purpose it never goes quite like you expected. Even the road getting there is difficult and once achieved it results in short satisfaction.

    How about the times you seek to fulfill God’s purpose-how is the outcome, yes it’s true the road might still have some bumps, but do you notice you get over them a lot easier than you did the ones you tried to get over on your own? That’s because God’s purpose comes with a helper!

    And what about the results, once Christ has achieved His purpose through you, have you noticed the joy and satisfaction lingers and lasts?

    I really believe that Christ when upon that cross, having known that He had and was about to complete the purpose of His Father felt a satisfaction that is unexplainable. Our Savior lived and breathed the purpose of God, and we too should live and breathe the purpose of God.

    Prayer: Lord You set the perfect example of what it looks like to fulfill God’s purpose. Thank You. Amen

    Wednesday, August 4, 2010

    How Lord?

    “For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do what I want.”  John 6:38

    The biggest mistake I have made is trying to figure out what “my” purpose is. I have gotten so caught up in asking God who, what, when, where, and why, when I should have been asking Him how. Lord how can I fulfill “Your” purpose for today?

    I believe when we start asking about “our” purpose it is because we have taken our eyes off of God and placed them upon ourselves, which makes complete since why overcoming “me” is SO important.

    If you have noticed in our Scripture this week Jesus says I have come to do the will of God who sent me, not to do what “I” want.  He also says over in John 10:10, “My purpose is to give life in all its fullness.”

    Before we can even begin to know His purpose for our lives we must begin to understand Christ’s purpose. So for today my purpose is to become even more Christ like than yesterday; it is to do the will of God who created me, and to please Him and not myself or the world.   

    Prayer: Lord change me from within making me pure so I can become a utensil You can use for Your purpose. May all I do and all I say be pleasing to You. Show me how Lord I can fulfill Your purpose for today. Amen