Tuesday, December 31, 2013

The Gift of Time

"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

365 days God gave you time.

Time to turn to Him
Time to trust Him
Time to know Him
Time to serve Him
Time to love Him
Time to spend with Him
Time to talk to others about Him
Time to repent
Time to confess
Time to grow closer to Him
Time to love others
Time to forgive
Time to heal
Time to be selfless
Time to laugh
Time to cry
Time for joy
Time to hope
Time to smile
Time to breathe
Time to worship
Time to give thanks
Time to fellowship
Time to give
Time to comfort
Time to learn
Time to change
Time to transform
Time to be with family


T-I-M-E! It's a gift from God, and He desires us to be good stewards with our time. As you close out this year, praise God for the time He has given you. And as You begin a New Year, make the resolution to be a better steward with your time.

Use it for His glory. His honor.

Happy New Year Sweet Ones!!

Monday, December 30, 2013

The Gift of Commitment

Commitment...

A gift Christ gave us when He died for us. A gift that is required in a relationship. It's required in our relationship with Christ and in our marriage. It's one gift we are beginning to see less of. We see less commitment in our jobs, in our homes, in our Churches, in our devotion to Christ, in reading the Word, so on and so on. Commitment is required in our relationship with Christ. If we struggle to commit our life to Him, we will struggle to commit in others areas and relationships as well. Commitment is trusting God with everything we have and everything we are. Commitment is loving God more than we love ourselves.  

Give Christ the gift of commitment this new year! Commit to Him and His Word wholeheartedly. 

"Commit everything you do to the Lord." Psalm 37:5




Sunday, December 29, 2013

Altar Sunday

The Gift of giving and telling others about Christ doesn't end on December 25th. It actually begins.

Keep celebrating the life of Christ. Keep spreading His name, His love, His joy, His goodness, His faithfulness and the hope that is found in Him.

Meet Jesus at the Cross, He is there waiting to give you the path for which He desires you to take in 2014.

Saturday, December 28, 2013

The Gift of Fruitfulness

Fruitfulness…

I love this gift. Fruitfulness is an abundance of the Holy Spirit at work in our lives. It produces many gifts; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control to be exact. It is the gift that keeps on giving, day in and day out. Fruitfulness is not something we can obtain ourselves, it comes from the Holy Spirit and staying attached to the vine. As long as we stay attached to the vine fruit will be produced, which means more fruit to be given.

"Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful apart from me. Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:4-5


Friday, December 27, 2013

The Gift of Trust

Trust…

It's the gift man must earn, but can only be found in God Almighty. His faithfulness proves true day in and day out. 

He never lies, never goes back on His Word, He will never leave us not forsake us. 

His character and integrity speak for themselves. 

To find trust in man, is to find God in man. It's a gift that seems to be rare, but when found, Christ is there. 

Seek to obtain this gift, its a daily search, but one worth searching for. 

"Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O Lord, do not abandon those who search for you." Psalm 9:10


Thursday, December 26, 2013

The Gift of God's Word

God's Word…

This is the most spectacular gift you could ever give someone. It is full of living power. It is sharper than the sharpest knife, cutting deep into our innermost thoughts and desires. It exposes us for what we really are. It straightens us out, it brings us life. It is a fresh of breath air. It is where our hope comes from, where peace is found, and is the prescription for healing. It is a gift that everyone needs no matter who they are or where they are. God's Word is the most beneficial gift there is. It's a needed gift in the worst of ways, and is available to all man, free of charge. It's the gift that should be found in EVERY home, every school, every hotel, every corner. Within it, knowledge, understanding and wisdom are found. Along with insight, good judgement, and guidance. It's full of the greatest love letters, written specifically to you, from God Himself. It will fill you up, lift you up, and draw you closer to Christ. I can't think of a greater gift to give than God's Word.

"Let the words of Christ, in all their richness, live in your hearts and make you wise." Colossians 3:16

Wednesday, December 25, 2013

The Gift of Thankfulness

Thankfulness…

Thankfulness is a gift Christ should receive daily. It's the acknowledgement of His goodness in our lives. Thankfulness, is not just a gift to be given during Thanksgiving, rather it's a gift that should be given 365 days a year. Thankfulness is appreciating God's richest mercies. This is a particular gift that should be shared, spread, and become contagious. When thankfulness overflows in our lives, it should become an outpouring onto the lives of others.

"Let your lives overflow with thanksgiving for all he has done." Colossians 2:7

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

The Gift of Humility

Humility…

More than a gift, humility is a reflection. A reflection of Christ. It is the state of not thinking of yourself or that you are better than others. Rather it's a state of selflessness. It's an attitude that does not demand it's own way or cling to it's own rights. Instead, it places others interests before its own. Humility, is the perfect description of Christ. Humility is what we should all desire and posses, especially this time of year.

"Your attitude should be the same that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not demand and cling to his rights as God. He made himself nothing; he took the humble position of a slave and appeared in human form. And in human form he obediently humbled himself even further by dying a criminal's death on a cross." Philippians 2:5-8

Monday, December 23, 2013

The Gift of Prayer

Prayer…

It's the greatest gift to give when you are at a loss for what to give. It's always needed, always welcomed, and is better than any human word given. Prayer, when given on behalf of others, is placed in the hands of the Most Holy God, the Creator and Ruler; the healer, comforter, protector, and Sovereign God. He will be able to give and do far more than any human word, or gift ever could.


"When I think of all this, I fall to my knees and pray to the Father, the Creator of everything in heaven and on earth. I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God."  Ephesians 3:14-19














Sunday, December 22, 2013

Altar Sunday

Join together and lift up your voices to the Lord. Rush to the altar together and kneel before the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He has come to set us free. He has come to show us the way. He has come to give us life. He has made the way. 

Celebrate the goodness of Christ.

Saturday, December 21, 2013

The Gift Encouragement

Encouragement…

It's the gift, when given can build up even the saddest heart. It is the gift, that can be a source of strength for the weak. Hope for the hopeless. Confidence for the insecure. And even life-giving.

This is one gift we should not keep wrapped up. It should be given daily, especially in our homes.

"When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours." Romans 1:12



Friday, December 20, 2013

The Gift of Service

Service…

Is not found wrapped in a gift, it is found in us; our hands and feet. We actually give the gift, by giving up our time to help and serve others.

"Then the King will say to those on the right, Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me." Matthew 25:34-36

How can you and your family serve?

Thursday, December 19, 2013

The Gift of Giving

Giving…

Is what we do this time every year. We give so many things, but the greatest gift we could give, is Christ, our time, our selves, our tithes, our offerings, our homes, His Word and His love.

Giving goes way beyond a materialistic gift. Giving, is the giving up of self.

"If you give, you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full measure, pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, and running over. Whatever measure you use in giving-large or small-it will be used to measure what is given back to you." Luke 6:38

God gave the ultimate gift of giving. He gave His Son!

"For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God did not send his Son into the world to condemn it, but to save it." John 3:16

Wednesday, December 18, 2013

The Gift of Joy

Joy…

Is the gift often confused with happiness. Yet it is quite different. The gift of joy is given by God for all to take and receive. It's the gift that fills your heart with absolute confidence that you belong to Christ. This gift must be given with the gift of Christ, because they really do go together. Without Christ there is no joy! Give someone the gift of Christ's Word and watch Him give them the gift of joy when they receive Him.

"I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. When you obey me, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father and remain in his love. I have told you this so that yo will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!" John 15:9-11

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

The Gift of Faithfulness

Faithfulness…

It's the gift Jesus deserves from us the most. It's the greatest gift we could give Him every single day. It's one given sporadically, but should be given always.  He did not withhold His faithfulness from us. He has proven His faithfulness over and over again. He is the most faithful there is.

May our lives be wrapped in such faithfulness that others will see Him.

"Great is His faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day." Lamentations 3:23

"For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ." Hebrews 3:14

Monday, December 16, 2013

The Gift of Goodness

Goodness…

It's the gift that can only be described this way. "For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. If you serve Christ with this attitude, you will please God. And other people will approve of you, too. So then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up." Romans 14:17-19


Sunday, December 15, 2013

Altar Sunday

"Oh, how I praise the Lord. How I rejoice in God my Savior! For he took notice of his lowly servant girls, and now generation after generation will call me blessed. For he, the Mighty One, is holy, and he has done great things for me. His mercy goes on from generation to generation, to all who fear him. His mighty arm does tremendous things! How he scatters the proud and haughty ones! He has taken princes from their thrones  and exalted the lowly. He has satisfied the hungry with good things and sent the rich away with empty hands. And how he has helped his servant Israel! He has not forgotten his promise to be merciful. For he promised our ancestors-Abraham and his children-to be merciful to them forever." Luke 1:46-55

Saturday, December 14, 2013

The Gift of Patience

Patience…

It's the gift we all need, but never want to ask for. It's the gift, if given will display self-control, love and gentleness all at the same time. It's the gift Jesus freely gives and displays for us every millisecond.

If you are able, give the gift, but also receive the gift, it will be life-transforming.

"Love is patient." 1 Corinthians 13:4

"Knowing God leads to self-control. Self-control leads to patient endurance, and patient endurance leads to godliness." 2 Peter 1:6

Friday, December 13, 2013

The Gift of Honesty

Honesty…


It's the gift that is desperately needed today. It's needed in our homes, our jobs, our schools, our nation, even within ourselves. It's one gift we should be more mindful of giving out. We will never understand the urgency and importance of this gift. Without it, there will be deception and misleading of every kind.

If there was ever a gift for us to give, it would be the gift of honesty.

"The Lord hates cheating, but he delights in honesty." Proverbs 11:1

Thursday, December 12, 2013

The Gift of Selflessness

Selflessness…

It's the gift that is found in Christ. It's the giving up of one's self in order to put others first. It is the gift God gave us when He sent Christ to die for us. It's the gift, that if used, will change lives, homes, even nations. It's the sweetest gift you can give Christ and others.

Christ's birth, death, and resurrection is the perfect example of selflessness.

"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." Luke 9:23-24

"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

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

The Gift of Gentleness

Gentleness…

It's the gift that should grace our homes daily and our lives always. It's the prettiest gift you could wrap yourself in. Nothing speaks God's grace more than a kind, mild-mannered heart.

"You should be known for the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God." 1 Peter 3:4

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

The Gift of Love

Love…

It's the gift that is requested by all and required by Him.

You can never go wrong in giving the gift of love. It quiets angry hearts. It restores broken hearts. It brings joy to the joyless. It brings comfort and hope and is the greatest reflection of Christ.

Give the gift of love with all your heart! Jesus did.

"God showed how much he loved us by sending his only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. This is real love. It is not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sen his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. Dear friend, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love has been brought to full expression through us." 1 John 4:9-12

"God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them. And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect." 1 John 4:16-17

Monday, December 9, 2013

The Gift of Peace

Peace…

It's a gift we all desire, yet one that is given the least. If given it produces a harvest of blessing and righteousness. Let's give the gift of peace.

"And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness." James 3:18





Sunday, December 8, 2013

Altar Sunday





How will you find me 
What will you see
Will it be a heart devoted to thee

As I kneel at your feet
I give all to thee
Leaving none to be found

I will walk away 
hearing the only sound

Give it all to Me

Saturday, December 7, 2013

The Gift of Hope

Hope…

It's one of the most needed gifts today and is found in Christ alone.

"Look at my Servant, whom I have chosen. He is my Beloved, who pleases me. I will put my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. He will not fight or shout or raise his voice in public. He will not crush the weakest reed or put out a flickering candle. Finally he will cause justice to be victorious. And his name will be the hope of all the world." Matthew 12:18-21








Friday, December 6, 2013

The Gift of Kindness

Kindness…

It's the gift that keeps on giving.

"Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart."  Psalm 3:3











Thursday, December 5, 2013

The Gift of Forgiveness

Forgiveness…

It's a gift we all could use and one we could all afford to give.

"Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."  Colossians 3:13







Wednesday, December 4, 2013

It Is these that need the Gift of Christ

7stead, 
She entered our office with a sweet and gentle smile. 

Her gentle spirit radiated through out the entire meeting. 

As it came to a close she said something I wasn't quite prepared for. 

Her heart opened and she began to express her brokenness. 

"On July 30th my husband died while running on the treadmill. He had just recently seen a cardiologist who had given him a good report. On July 1st, we both decided we wanted and needed to lose weight. He was always all in with everything. I wasn't there when it happened. Every since then my life has been a little off." 

My heart broke for her. God's timing is amazing in all things. I had just spent time with Him the day before, praying for those who have lost loved ones. And then today a complete stranger, now sister, sharing her loss. 

In that moment it seemed as though I had no mouth to speak words, just arms; arms that grabbed hold of her and hugged her. 

The moment she walked out the door, I immediately went to the foot of the cross grabbed a hold of Jesus and cried out for His presence to surround her, comfort her, and encourage her. 

Sweet one, it is these precious ones that we should be grabbing a hold of; loving on, surrounding, praying over them, and giving them the precious and perfect gift of Jesus.

He is the Light that penetrates the darkest darkness. He is the comfort that allows you to take a breath. He is the one who wipes away your tears. He is the strength you need to get out of bed and keep serving Him.

He is your every and only need. 

Wrap your arms around someone hurting. 

And whatever you do, trust Christ and complain less. 

Give more and take less. 

Love more. Encourage more. Pray more, and focus less on yourself and more on Christ.

Jesus was selfless when He came to earth to save us. Let's follow that example.


"Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.
You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.
Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God
and died a criminal’s death on a cross.” Philippians 2:1-8



cross.

Tuesday, December 3, 2013

The Best Gift-The Perfect Gift

"Don't be afraid! He said. I bring you good news of great joy for everyone!" Luke 2:10

The best gift you could ever give is the gift of Christ. 

Wrap Him up and send Him out. 

There will never be a more life changing gift.

It's the one gift that will always keep on giving from generation to generation. 

It's the gift that brings joy, love, hope and peace.

So stop searching for the perfect gift, Jesus is the perfect gift!


Monday, December 2, 2013

Remember the Reason

"Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to all whom God favors." Luke 2:14

Father, it's so easy to get caught up in the list making, the shopping, the wrapping, even the decorating. So much so, we begin to lose sight of why we even celebrate Christmas.

How have we fallen so far away from you?

How have we gone from what is all about You, to being all about ourselves, our wants?

Slipping You in doesn't suffice.

For some, this time of year brings a mixture of joy and deep sadness. It's a reminder of the emptiness they feel for their loved ones.

Yet in the midst of their sorrow, may they lift their eyes to You and realize that You fill the void, You heal their brokenness, You restore their joy.

Remind us of the price You paid. Remind us of the reason You came.

Jesus draw us back to You, now and forever.

Fill us with hunger pains that only subside when we feed on Your very Word.

Father it seems we have made this Season about the worldliness, the getting rather than the giving. Oh yes Lord, their are many who give of themselves for Your sake. Bless them with spiritual blessings.

Ignite a fire within the Body of Christ that cries out Your holiness to the nations. Ignite a burning passion within the Body of Christ that brings unity, boldness, and proclamation of Your first coming and second coming!

May we not gather around the tree to open the presents of materialism. May we gather around the tree on our knees to open the present of life-Your life.

 Jesus slow us down to savor this time, this occasion. May all our preparing be for You. May our focus be on doing for the least of these rather than for the selfishness of our flesh.

Show us how to honor You in a way that brings millions to the Cross.




Sunday, December 1, 2013

Altar Sunday

As you make your way to the altar, may your heart be full of praise and little of self.

Happy December!!


Saturday, November 30, 2013

Before It Ends

Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness. Let the whole world know what he has done. 1 Chronicles 16:8

Isn't it amazing how fast time flies? It seems like yesterday we were celebrating our first Thanksgiving in Jasper. 

Now here we are almost two years later and oh, how our lives have changed.

I can remember that moment when G came home and sat me down and said he felt like God was calling him out of football. I remember my response, "Well maybe you should go visit with Him again."

And he did, not because I told him to but because he felt it to. It was not but two weeks later he came home, sat me down and said, "Babe, God is calling me out of football. He has confirmed it several times."

And at that point I knew. So we prayed, took a huge step in faith and here we are today.

God has been so faithful. We are thankful 
and beyond blessed for His sweet blessings and presence in our lives.

He has opened the door for us to serve and minister to others together. 
 
He has opened up so much time for G to be home, be involved, to travel, and to be by my side as I teach. That alone is very dear to me.

I didn't want to let November run out and I not share all that we are thankful for.

So here is a few things we as a family are thankful for.  I had lots of help with this :)!

1. We are thankful to be used by God.
2. We are thankful that God's plans are greater than ours.
3. We are thankful for our new home.
4. We are thankful for Dax's continued healing.
5. We are thankful to have more time together.
6. We are thankful to be able to take trips.
7. We are thankful for our Church home and the oppurtunity to serve.
8. We are thankful that both boys are saved and baptized!!!!
9. We are thankful for our sweet new friends.
10. We are thankful for this new profession that provides and blesses others.
11. We are thankful for all of our families health.
12. We are thankful to be near family.
13. We are thankful for what God has planned for us each day.
14. We are thankful for each new day.
15. We are thankful for God's Word.
16. We are thankful to be able to spend Christmas in New York.
17.  We are thankful for our patients.
18.  We are thankful for each of you!!

And many many more! 

I am thankful for my precious women that God has so graciously allowed me to teach and learn from.

And I am so thankful to be able to share His word with you and many others. 

Praying your hearts overflow with thankfulness and joy! 











Monday, November 25, 2013

Captivated

When was the last time you were truly captivated by Jesus' love and beauty that it moved you to songs of praise?

"Praise the Lord! Praise the name of the Lord! Praise him, you who serve the Lord, you who serve in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God. Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good; celebrate his wonderful name with music." Psalm 135:1-3


Sunday, November 24, 2013

Altar Sunday

Sometimes remaining silent at the altar heals more.

Saturday, November 23, 2013

Do You?

He was the second of two. A twin. He came out grasping the heel of his brother.

His mother learned of the blessing he would receive before he was even born. 

Rather than waiting on God's timing she chose to take things into her own hands, thus setting the example for him to follow, and he did just that.

He lived up to his name "He deceives".

As a young man his first deception came when he stole his brothers birthright. Then later on stealing his blessing and deceiving his very own father.

We too can be guilty of these very things.

We can deceive others by pretending to be followers of Christ, yet never live as one. Deception can come in the form of appearance, money, a "friend", authority figure, even self. 

We can also ignore God's will and timing by acting to quickly. We are known for our impulsive behavior. There is a reason God does not tell us our futures, could you imagine?

Have you deceived others, your family, your children, your friends. Have you pretended to be someone your not? 

Maybe like Jacob you have deceived others to gain more for yourself. 

What about ignoring God's timing and stepping outside of His will? 

Whether it be a job, a relationship, family, etc, trust God and His timing for your life.

Most importantly, as a parent, make sure you are not deceiving your children.

Either be all in for Christ or not. You will do more damage and confuse them more by living one part in the world and the other part as a Christian.

To read more about Jacob head on over to Genesis 25-50! 






Sunday, November 17, 2013

Altar Sunday

As you gather together may your praises be sweeter than they have ever been.

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Inside Out

She was a woman of beauty, a hard worker, and a servant.

And though those things are wonderful traits to have, it's the heart that holds the most beauty.

Though her outward appearance was eye catching, her heart revealed something quite different. 

It revealed deception, lies, a "I need right now" impulse. Her heart was full of what her flesh wanted. 

She knew God's plan, but rather than waiting on Him, she chose to take matters into her own hands.

Her decisions affected not only her, but her husband and both of her sons.

She managed to deceive her husband, teach her younger son to lie and deceive his brother and father, and to act on impulse.

It's amazing how quickly her outward beauty began to change, when her heart began to be revealed.

What does your heart reveal about you? 

Jesus reads you inside out, the world reads you outside in. Let your inside define the beauty on the outside. 

To read more about Rebekah, head on over to Genesis  24-27


Monday, November 11, 2013

Time

Building a relationship with Christ requires time.

Are you taking the time?

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Missing You

"In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16

I am missing you terribly. The process of my blog update abruptly came to a stop, but hopefully it will be finished at some point. 

So until then, we will just stick with this one. 

There has been a lot happen within these last two weeks (has it been two weeks?) and all of it amazing, some of it hard, some heart breaking, but all in all God is teaching me, using me, working in me  showing me more of who He is and guiding me, all of which I desire from Him daily.

This morning I was visiting with The Lord about the month of November and how it seems to spur people on to share what they are thankful for. It's a GREAT thing, but today I asked Him why just November, why not all year, every day for 365 days? 

It's the same reason with Christmas. It roles around and it motivates us to give more, serve more and even attend church. 

But why do we not desire to do that all year?

Some questions are not meant to ponder on, but rather to spur us on. I don't know why you do what you do, just as you don't know why I do what I do.

But I hope that my life will begin to be a reflection of why I do what I do and that He is seen in every movement, every thought, every motive, every action, every word, every hug, everything. For then at the end of my life, He will be known to many. 

Sunday, October 20, 2013

Now He is New

He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Revelation 21:4-5


When the last rites are given. The last drop of medicine and fluid is administered, and your daddy prays over his daddy for the last time.

When it's your last living grandparent and you feel numb to the reality of it all. 

It's the regret of not investing more time with those you love.

It's the joy of knowing his loneliness, sickness, and desperate need for each breath is now all gone.

It's resting in Jesus that all was well with him and Him.

It's the heaviness you feel in the deepest part of your heart for your daddy.

It's the confident assurance that Christ is present and tending to the things we can't see and the things we are unable to do in the state of sorrow.

In all things rejoice. In life, in death, in sickness, in health, in sorrow... in all things.

He was a man of few words and a man of many words. He loved in unusual ways, loud ways, and sometimes in ways uncharacteristic to many of us. But he loved. 

His laugh was sweet, contagious and always brought a smile to your face.

He was a serious man. A workin' man. A social man. And a hands on man.

He loved tools like no ones business, and he loved them organized. 

If you think about your memories of him, it would be his tools. He was a tool connoisseur. His love for breakfast and his 6 kids. 

He loved his grand kids and great grand kids. 

He was a blessed man. And now a man at rest, at peace, finally at home. 

He was a loved man. 


















Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Under Construction



Godly Gossip is making some changes. We will be under construction the rest of this week.

See you soon!

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Under Construction



Godly Gossip is making some changes. We will be under construction the rest of this week.

See you soon!

Monday, October 14, 2013

It's Not Yours

When you think it's not important to clean out the excess of sin and junk in your body, let this passage change your way of thinking.

"Run away from sexual sin! No other sin so clearly affects the body as this one does. For sexual immorality is a sin against your own body. Or don't you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body." 1 Corinthians 6:18-20


Sunday, October 13, 2013

Altar Sunday

"With Jesus' help, let us continually offer our sacrifice of praise to God by proclaiming the glory of his name. Don't forget to do good and to share what you have with those in need, for such sacrifices are very pleasing to God." Hebrews 13:15-16

May our churches today be found shouting praises to the Most High. May our hearts be full of love and sincere worship. May there be no more rituals, no more routines, no more going through the motions. Rather may the Spirit be so alive that no even the walls can contain it.

Oh, that revival would start within the hearts of each of us. Go because your love for Christ is greater than your desire to be noticed. Go because the fellowship with the Body is so sweet, not because you have to.

Go with the intention to hear and see God do things beyond your greatest imagination.

Saturday, October 12, 2013

He Delights in YOU!

"The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing."  Zephaniah 3:17

God takes great delight in you. He rejoices over you with singing. 

Let that sink in your heart and consume your thoughts. The King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. The Great I Am, takes delight in YOU. He sings over YOU.

Oh brethren you are dearly loved, so lift up your head, take a deep breath in, and walk in that amazing promise and truth. 

Friday, October 11, 2013

There Is Not A Greater Moment Than This


"Daddy what is your purpose in this life?" 

"To make sure you and your sisters go to heaven."

This was a discussion I remember having with my dad when I was younger. I remember the impact it had on me. I thought about it the rest of the day and I still think about it today; especially as a mommy. 

Tonight, my greatest role, purpose and calling as a mommy, came to be, when Dax prayed the most precious prayer, had the most precious discussion with our Pastor. 

Then hearing Avery tell his story, of when Jesus came into his heart. The details that he shared, are forever embedded within me. 

I share this precious news with you, because I know what comes now. I know how much they need you, the Body to pray for them, over them, and with them. I know how important each and everyday from here on out will be, as they grow in their faith.

I know how much they will need to be surrounded by others who seek to honor and please the Lord. I also know now that they belong to Christ and there is nothing that can or will ever separate them from Him. 

I was able to get some amazing pictures of this special moment, and I am so grateful that our Pastor and his wife shared this amazing idea with us. It is something our boys and we will have and remember forever. It will be so very special when they are grown and get to share their story with their children. 

My sweetest boys, as you grow in your relationship with Christ, I pray your love for Him will grow and flourish in a way that only He can do. I pray you will listen to His promises and use them when you need strength, encouragement, help, guidance, and wisdom. They will protect you, always! You are His now and forever. There is nothing that can separate His love from you or for you. Seek His will at all times. Keep your eyes upon Him. Let His Words penetrate deep within you for they will give you a long life and radiant health. Always, be mindful; always be on guard, alert, prayerful, and thankful. Understand that you now join the Body of Christ and together that bond is stronger than any bond. Always be clothed in the Armor of Christ, because Satan is relentless, but he will never be victorious. Christ won the battle, sweet things, and you are covered in His precious blood. May you always walk in His truth, live in grace, love and forgiveness, and may your love and desire for Him be greater than anything or anyone. May your relationship with Christ be the greatest relationship of your life, and one that grows and grows, and produces a bond and love like that fulfills you in everyway.  You are and will always be His. Your daddy and I are so proud of you, and we look forward to serving and sharing Jesus with you. But more than that, we are beyond thrilled to spend eternity in heaven with you forever.




Thursday, October 10, 2013

Living It Out By His Grace and Help Alone

I am a firm believer in, if I am going to talk about it and encourage it, then I should be living it.

If I am going to encourage you to strengthen and deepen your relationship with Christ, then I must also be daily strengthening and deepening my relationship.

If I am going to encourage you to be obedient to Him and His Word, then I must also be obedient.

In teaching and writing, the biggest impact that can be made, is when the writer or teacher is actually living out what they are teaching and writing.

Have you ever met someone who talked as though they were such and such, maybe they were a follower of Christ, and they really could be, but their actions never matched their words?

Maybe they spoke on having a godly marriage, yet theirs was completely falling apart.

Maybe they always talked about being healthy, yet their body showed their secret eating habits.

Brethren, it is very easy to fall into the temptation of saying what we "want" to be, to do, or live, yet our actions speak something completely different.

I never want to fall into that trap.

As I always say, I never want anyone to see more of me than what I really am, which is a sinner.

As we continue this process of cleaning out the excess I wanted to share and show you that I am daily doing this. That though you can't see me, you can trust that I am doing the very thing I am encouraging you to do, and that I too struggle.

So, as far as cleaning out the excess in my heart.

This is what I try, always Lord-willing, to do.

1. I cover myself in the Word and always try to memorize a passage a day.
2. I stay fessed' up! This is huge for me, because I fail often.
3. I try to be mindful of my actions, thoughts, and words. This is another hard area for me, especially when things become chaotic or messy.
4. I pray and pray and pray and pray.
5. I take God's grace that He lays out for me daily!!

Cleaning out the excess in my thoughts

This is HARD!

1. I always ask myself, is this a God filled thought or a self focused thought. (This helps me tremendously)
2. I am always grabbing Scripture the Lord has stored within me and saying it over and over.
3. I surround myself with people and things that encourage Godly thinking, and push me closer to the things above and the Cross than the things here on earth.
4. I claim Philippians 4:8-9, like crazy!
5. I take every thought captive and place them under the microscope and light of God's Word and promises.

-Please understand, these are daily choices I choose. Whatever works best for you and the Lord, stick to it!

Cleaning out the excess in my body.

I have never really struggled with junk food, to much caffeine, etc. All due to the problems I have with my tummy. But I do have occasions when I eat more junk than I do healthy. So here are a few of the things that work for me.

1. I pray to have a distaste for things that are not pleasing to the Lord
2. I stick to a pretty regular diet for my GERD (It's VERY BLAND!)
3. I exercise 3 to 4 days a week. Whether running or circuit training. (I literally prayed that God would give me a desire and the ability to run and get stronger. I pray through every workout-NOT KIDDING.)
4. I constantly speak Matthew 4:4 "People need more than bread for their life; they must feed on the very word of God." This is my power verse, my daily snack, and one that I firmly believe in. So I feed myself the Word as much as I can, and still fulfill the other God given roles He has given me.
5. I firmly believe in being the best I can be for the Lord, so I know that taking care of my Temple is extremely important. If I don't, I will be of little use, and I want God to use me to the fullest, so that when He takes me home I will have fulfilled His purpose to the fullest. (This is a daily work in progress, but one I truly desire)

I would love to hear what you do, have done or are doing. What is the Lord teaching you as you clean out the excess in your thoughts, hearts, and bodies?

Be blessed sweet ones! You are loved and adored beyond measure.



Wednesday, October 9, 2013

It's Not Up To Me To Know, God Knows and They Know!


"He said to them, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” Then he took the children in his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them." Mark 10:14-16

How do you know when your babies are really ready for Baptism?

This is a subject my husband and I have often. We want this decision to be completely theirs. Nothing forced, just complete love for Jesus, and their desire to be obedient.

Recently, our now 5 year old, hollered from the backseat. "Mama, I want to get baptized right now!"

Of course I was shocked because it was so random, so raw, so real.

I of course being the mom I am said, "Well baby that is fabulous! But we can't do it right now. We need to go home and visit with daddy, and then visit with our Pastor. Okay?"

"Why mama, why can't you just do it?"

I laughed and said, "It just doesn't work like that."

"Well who baptized you?"

"My daddy baptized me."

"Papaw is a Pastor? I didn't know that."

I laughed!!

So of course we preceded to discuss what baptism means, why we do it, and the importance of being baptized.

I asked some tough questions, some deep questions, and not to confuse him, but to see if he really understood the meaning. To see if his heart belonged to Christ.

And to my surprise he says, "Mommy, I know I am a sinner, I sin all the time, and I have asked Jesus in my heart and I know He is there?"

How do you know Jesus is in your heart, I asked?

And Dax said "He just went knock knock, I opened the door and He came in."

SIGHHHHHHHHHHH

 I would have given anything to have been able to record that comment so I could play it over and over and over.

The simplicity God gave us to be saved, yet how often we make it so difficult.

I don't know, but I would say this mama needs to get out of the way and let God keep doin' what He's doin'.

I believe my baby is ready?

"He said to them, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” Then he took the children in his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them." Mark 10:14-16

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

When the Government is in Turmoil..

Remember it is ran by man.

Remember it puts its confidence in man.

Remember it looks to self rather than Christ.

Remember to not fear, though their decisions affect us, God is still and will always be in control.

Remember to pray.

Remember to look to Christ.

Remember to trust in God's promises.

Remember to not slander, just because they slander.

Remember to pray more for their souls to be saved.

Remember that Christ is our leader, our King, our Protector, our Financial provider, our Hope, our Daily Bread.

And finally, remember that Christ is all-knowing, all-seeing, all-sufficient, all-powerful, and is EVERYWHERE.

He knows every thought of the President, He knows every decision he will make. He knows who he serves. He knows every thought of every individual that makes up our Government. He knows their hearts, their every move, their every motive, everything.

Christ knows His children. He knows what we need, what we fear, what we think, what's in our hearts, our motives, etc. And He will always take care of us.

Remember what Paul told Timothy, well the same applies to us today, regardless of how we feel. Let's be obedient.

"I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth.  For there is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus. He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time." 1 Timothy 2:1-6


Monday, October 7, 2013

Letting Go Of The Things That Perish

Do you want to give all you have and all you are to the Lord but your afraid?

Are you afraid of the unknown?

Are you afraid you won't have fun if you live a life completely devoted to Christ?

Are you afraid of suffering for His name sake?

Are you afraid of failing?

Are you afraid of losing everything?

Are you afraid you will be left standing alone?

What is it that keeps you from giving your life completely to Christ?

Do you know who else struggled with this very thing? The Rich Man

"As Jesus was starting out on his way to Jerusalem, a man came running up to him, knelt down, and asked, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” “Why do you call me good?” Jesus asked. “Only God is truly good.  But to answer your question, you know the commandments: ‘You must not murder. You must not commit adultery. You must not steal. You must not testify falsely. You must not cheat anyone. Honor your father and mother.”  “Teacher,” the man replied, “I’ve obeyed all these commandments since I was young.”  Looking at the man, Jesus felt genuine love for him. “There is still one thing you haven’t done,” he told him. “Go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” At this the man’s face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions. Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the Kingdom of God!” This amazed them. But Jesus said again, “Dear children, it is very hard[f] to enter the Kingdom of God.  In fact, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!” Mark 10:17-25

Do you have some things in your life that you refuse to let go of? Do you struggle to clean out the excess you have stored up?

Let God heal you and cleanse you. Don't hold on to things that will perish. Store up everlasting life, God's love, His Word, Christ's forgiveness and mercy. For these things never perish, never rot, and will never destroy you, hurt you or abandon you.