Laying the Foundation

"For every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything." Hebrews 3:4

The day the frames went up, we walked in with markers and Bible in hand and away we went, covering our home in the Word of God. 

There was not a greater feeling than knowing that every door frame, and at least one portion of every room was covered in prayer and God's Word. 

Each one of us, of course two who had help, were able to write something from the Word that meant something to us.

I can't tell you how precious those moments were with Avery and Dax. For them to know that God is the builder and cornerstone of our home was so important to G and me. 

This has always been important to me.  In each home G and I have lived in I have always prayed that God's presence would be felt. With every move I prayed that whomever the Lord brought in to take over, would know that God was the center of the home. I would leave written Scripture in certain places in each home, because I knew that no other welcoming gift would be greater than God's Word. (There is no better foundation to lay in a home than the foundation of God’s Word.)

Once we finished we gathered in the soon to be living room and prayed as one.

Though we have had our ups and downs in this process, God has been in control. His presence has been hovering over our home and I pray His presence will remain until He is ready for us to move elsewhere.

For me, it is my prayer that Jesus will fill this new home, with an abundance of His love and mercy. I pray He will add joy and laughter, growth and knowledge. I pray that tongues will be held and that love will be spoken.

I pray that God's Word will be the centerpiece, just as Jesus is the Cornerstone. I pray that all who enter will leave knowing more about Jesus than they did before they walked in. I pray it will be the home where lives are saved but most of all where mercy, grace and love are found.

So what are some prayers for your home? Also I was wondering if you have made Jesus the center of your home, what are some of the things He has added or filled your home with?

Jesus we are blessed and I pray You remain the center of our home. I pray Your presence is felt by all who enter. Thank You for allowing us to first cover the foundation in Your Word, for Your Word is the solid rock on which we stand. Thank You! May You remind us daily if we ever move You from the center of our home. Amen

Love at the Altar

Maybe today you are in search of love. Love that will fill you and pour out of you. If so, Jesus is at the altar waiting.

How Do You Know?

"All they knew was that people were saying, "The one who used to persecute us now preaches the very faith he tried to destroy! And they gave glory to God because of me." 

We read all throughout Paul's writings about the "New Life" found in Christ Jesus. Paul teaches us the changes that are made within one who is filled with Christ. 

“So I advise you to live according to your new life in the Holy Spirit. Then you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves." Galatians 5: 16

"Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit." Romans 8:5

So let me ask you this...

How do you know if you have experienced the transformation?

Would you agree with me that your attitude, thoughts, life-style etc would be completely transformed?

Paul had a huge transformation take place within him. It was evident and real. In fact it was so life changing it left him blind for several days.

I often wonder what those days were like for Paul. Did he immediately know or did it take him awhile to process all that had happened.

The Lord truly changed Paul's life. It was evident to everyone in Bible times and it is evident to all of us today. 

We see these life transformations in others; do we see the transformation in ourselves?

Jesus sometimes I wonder if I have fully given You all the control of my life. Have I surrendered to my old ways of living? I  know I am Yours and that You are in me, so help me step aside so that You can complete the transformation process within me. Amen

A Very Random and Personal Post

"In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:6

Goodness how our lives have changed. For the past however many years Friday's consisted of football for our family. 

But now... well, let me just tell you what our new Friday's consist of. 

This morning I woke up to my precious husband and two boys next to me. We snuggled and giggled and then all got up and got ready for the day. We ate breakfast together and then with my husband next to me we took both of our boys to school. 

We went to work together, shot a quick commercial and then went and had lunch just the three of us. We picked Daxie up early and took him with us. 

After a late lunch we went and picked Avery up and came home just in time for G to pack his bags and head out to New Orleans. 

I can't tell you how different this has felt for both of us. Last weekend football kicked off, and it was a time I honestly dreaded and worried about for G. 

Would he miss it? Would today be a sad day for him? These are some of the thoughts that ran through my head over and over.

But to my surprise, he was GREAT. Yes he loves football and always will, but he also loves the freedom this new ministry has brought. 

Last weekend he was able to go spend Labor Day weekend helping his parents. This weekend he gets to go on a boy’s trip with his dad and younger brother to New Orleans, to go fishing, see his older brother Chris and then go watch the Redskins play the Saints. 

Football never really allowed G to spend much time with his family, so it is a huge blessing that the Lord has given him this precious time now. 

The Lord has revealed to me that what I thought would be a gigantic change has really been a small change with unbelievable benefits. 

Every day we get to minister to the lives of our patients and that is the greatest thing ever. We get to spend time getting to know one another and how we each do things. 

We get to pick our boys up from school, sit down at the dinner table as a family, and now we will get to take Sunday naps together and watch football.

Oh, how blessed we are brethren. We have been blessed in both ministries, but this one has been amazing.

To be honest we don't know how to handle all this time we get together, so I am glad he is getting to go spend time with his brothers and dad this weekend. Guys just need time like that.

When you give Christ your life, He has a great way of pulling you outside of your comfort zone. Football was definitely our comfort zone. So when G surrendered to the Lord's calling to step away from it, that my friend was years of the Lord working in G and ahead of G preparing this mission field for him.

It is my deepest prayer that we will continue to honor and serve the Lord in this new ministry he has called us in. I pray that all we say and do will honor and glorify Him. 

Though there are so many great things about our new Friday's our greatest job is to put Christ first, serve Him and share His name with as many people as we can. 

I pray that we will grow and be strengthened as a family and that we will use our new time to serve others. 

I pray we stay humble and focused on Christ. I pray God will continue to use us clear to the very end. 

I am thankful for new opportunities and look forward to the future. We know God has a reason and purpose for all things, so no matter what lies ahead; it is our prayer that we do everything for the glory of the Lord with faith, love, and mercy.

Jesus thank You for the blessings You have poured upon us. May we never take them for granted, but use them to bless others in return. We love You. Continue to work in our lives. We want to finish this life having used every ounce of our talents for Your glory. Amen

Actions that Reflect A Life of True Faith

"Dear brothers and sisters, what's the use of saying you have faith if you don't prove it by your actions?" James 2:14

I know Your purpose for us is greater than the purpose we have set for ourselves.

I know Your mercy is greater than the mercy we extend to others.

I know Your love is stronger and more genuine than the love we have for ourselves, others, and even You.

I know Your Word is the greatest and only source of hope, help, love, encouragement, and guidance than any human book ever could be.

I know faith is a must, but a personal relationship is crucial and vital.

I know time is fleeting and fragile and that it only takes a second for our lives to change.

I know that You see farther and bigger than our human eyes and minds could ever comprehend.

I know the power in Your name alone, and no human name or title could ever compare. 

I know the greatest gift to ever be given was Your Son Jesus Christ and nothing will or can ever compare to the life that is given from that gift.

I know that all this knowing means nothing if I am not living it out in my everyday life. 

Living out God's Word...shows a life filled with love for Christ.

Jesus I want my actions, thoughts, and speech to be a reflection of my faith and trust in You. Amen

Words and Reins

"The godly speak words that are helpful, but the wicked speak only what is corrupt." Proverbs 10:32

Do the words I speak represent You Jesus?

Do the words I speak encourage others?

Are the words I speak helpful?

Take control of what I say O' Lord keep my lips sealed.

Does corruption flow from my tongue?

Do my words bring sorrow and pain?

Place Your hand over my mouth O' Lord keeping me from uttering anything unwholesome.

Do my words build others up?

Or do they tear others down?

Do my words reflect a heart that is full of You O Lord?

Or do they reflect a heart full of self and the world?

Do my words show my trust in You?

Or do they show I am doubtful?

Do my words reflect a heart that is content?

Or a heart that is unsatisfied?

Disable my ability to speak any lies

Put reins on my tongue that only You can guide!

Special, Rare and Unique

"Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interest of the others." Philippians 2:1-4

I love many things about my husband’s side of the family, but the one thing I truly love the most is hearing and listening to Garrett and his brother’s laugh, and the close relationship they have.  If I could explain this rare laugh to you I would, but it's just something you have to hear for yourself.

When I tell you I have never seen siblings as close as these three, I mean it! Now I am close to my sisters, but I can honestly say it does not even come close to those three's relationship.

It's special. Garrett's mom and dad have done such a wonderful job raising them. Their love for one another is so rare, so real, so unique, so amazing. It's genuine and selfless. You rarely EVER hear bickering, negativity, or ugliness spoken from Garrett, Ryan or Chris. 

The more I see the interaction between these three, the more I realize that their relationship is exactly the type of relationship we should have with our family and the Body of Christ.

Our love for one another should be so strong that all we want to do is encourage one another, support one another, laugh until our stomachs hurt, comfort one another, and be completely selfless. 

This is the perfect example of Christ's love in 1 Corinthians 13. It has taken me a while to see just how wonderful these three's relationship truly is. To be honest, I was jealous of G's relationship with his brothers, because I wanted to have that same type of relationship with him.  

But I have learned that relationships are all different and I am okay with that, now. I love and am blessed that G has such a close knit family that loves each other as much as they do. And because he does, I know my boys will be raised to love one another the same way. That is very important to me. 

I want my boys to be as close as G and his brothers are. I want them to have a rare, unique, and genuine, will fight, defend, protect, support, encourage, pray for you, be selfless, and hold you accountable, type of relationship. 

Not only do I want that for my family, but I want that for all of us who are in Christ Jesus. 

I want all of the Body of Christ to love one another just as Christ has called us to. I want our relationship to be so unique, special, rare, real, encouraging, comforting, fun, helpful, and selfless that anyone who is living without Christ will desire to become a part of our family. 

May our relationships strengthen in Christ Jesus!

Jesus thank You for showing me through G and his family the importance of relationships. May we seek to honor You in every relationship. Amen

Extended Family

“But those who won’t care for their own relatives, especially those living in the same household, have denied what we believe. Such people are worse than unbelievers.” 1 Timothy5:8

I was thinking a lot today about my extended family and the sad reality that I don't talk to them very much. When this hit me I told G that it seems as though we spend more time with friends and our own immediate family and fail to remember or visit with them.

And then G said something that bothered me a great deal today. He said, "We spend more time with strangers."

I need to make sure that while I am investing in strangers I am also investing in my family, both immediate and extended. Life is so short to put it off. You think I would be better about that especially after losing both grandma's and a grandpa. 

Yes many of my extended family lives miles and miles away, okay states away, but that should not stop me from calling them and letting them know they are loved and thought of. 

I have an amazing extended family on both sides of me and the thing that gets me is that I should be praying more for them, sharing God's Word with them, and letting them know they are important to me.

In Bible times many of the people are surrounded by lots and lots of family, immediate and extended. 

Family was the second thing God established and it is something He speaks about often.

I pray God will help me be more conscious of my time, and will open up doors for me to minister and share God's love and Word with my extended family who doesn't know Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior. 

I want to know without a doubt that they will all be in heaven with me forever. I also want to extend Jesus' love to them, the same way Jesus extends His love to me.

I don't know what type of relationship you have with your extended family, but I know that whether it is good or bad Jesus wants and can use you to be the light and love for His glory. Make yourself available and useful for Him to use. I know I want too.

Jesus use us to be Your light and love to our families near and far. May we not waste any more time in reaching out to our extended families. Time is so short and fleeting and I don't want to wait until a funeral to let those I love know it. Help me do better for You and for them. Amen

Altar Sunday

Let the Lord make His place in your heart. Once He is there you don't have to wait for Sunday to go to the altar. You can meet Jesus right where you are.

It's possible with thankfulness

"No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:18

It's possible to be happier, more joy filled than before. How? By spending more time thanking Jesus for the things you have, rather than the things you don't.

Joy is possible...

It's a gift God is extending to you through His Son, Jesus.

Rare. Why?

"But everyone knows that you are obedient to the Lord." Romans 16:19

It's not very often that you have someone come up to you and say, "I see how faithful you are to Jesus. It shows through your actions and obedience to Him."

To be honest that would be the most unbelievable compliment ever. But those compliments are rare.

Why?

?

"Let me say first of all that your faith in God is becoming known throughout the world." Romans 1:8

Is our faith as an ENTIRE body of Christ spreading and becoming known throughout the world? Is the body of Christ growing and functioning together as one, or are others seeing a body that is trying to function as different parts?

You Have Been Chosen

"This letter is from Paul, Jesus Christ's slave, chosen by God to be an apostle and sent out to preach his Good News." Romans 1:1

Yesterday we talked about being a slave for Christ, today I want to talk about the latter part of this passage.

chosen by God to be an apostle and sent out to preach His Good News.

Do you remember when you were in school either at recess or P.E. and you all got in a line and waited for the two captains to pick their teams?

You had to be "Chosen".

Do you remember how you felt waiting to hear your name called? Even now, the thought of that brings butterflies to my stomach. Especially now as a parent of two boys, the thought and feelings that rush in when I think of them standing there hoping they will be "Chosen" and sooner rather than later.

From the world perspective to be "Chosen" is a HUGE deal. We have turned it into something that we believe determines whether or not we are good enough, qualified enough, pretty enough, smart enough, fast enough, strong enough, successful enough, rich enough.

But to Jesus none of those things matter. Nor should they matter or define us.

Everything we have comes from the Lord. Therefore the only thing that should matter is the fact the we, who are in Christ, have been "Chosen."

Brethren, Jesus chose you and me. He chose to die for you and me. He chose to go before us and prepare a place for us. He chose to give us life. He chose us just the way we are.

The King of Kings and the Lord of Lords, our Master, chose us to be His very own. Is there any sweeter feeling than that? Is there any greater honor or privilege than to be chosen by the Creator?

To Jesus the only thing that matters is our realtionship with Him. He wants us on His team. He chose us before we even existed.  Paul found that to be so humbling. Do we or do we pass it off like it's no big deal?

That my friend is a wonderful thing.

So what do we do now that we have been chosen, we go out and share the Good News with all who come our way.

Jesus may I live a life everyday that reflects a girl who has been chosen by the Great I Am. Thank You, may I use my ever talent and oppurtunity given to share the Good News. Amen

Master and Slave

"This letter is from Paul, Jesus Christ's slave, chosen by God to be an apostle and sent out to preach his Good News." Romans 1:1

What is the first thing that pops in your head when you hear the word slave?

Do you automatically think of yourself?

The truth be known we are all a slave to something, whether it be an addiction, money, our jobs, a spouse, even self.

This was a hard thing for me to grasp when the Lord was teaching me, but the more I listened to Him the more I realized how I have allowed there to be more Master's in my life than just Jesus.

Paul new who His real, one and only Master was, Jesus, and he was proud to be His slave. I have never really looked at being Jesus' slave until God sat me down and taught me more about this passage.

The word slave has such a negative response to it, but in this case it is something that is postive and good. Why?

Because Jesus is the most amazing Master there is. He is a Master that is loving, kind, gentle, patient, understanding, forgiving and merciful.

Even His discipline is done in complete love for us. He has our best interest at heart, He knows what is best for us and what is harmful to us. He can see things in a bigger picture than we can, and He always goes ahead of us making sure we are safe.

Like Paul, we should desire and want to be Christ's slave, and we should look at it as a great and wonderful thing. Because to be honest these other Master's we have allowed to creep into our lives, well they don't have our best "Eternal" interest at heart. They are the right now.

The biggest issue we will have to deal with is whether or not we want and are willing to relinquish all control and serve Christ.

As a slave for Christ, we have been given freedom, freedom to love and serve Him. See how it goes back to Him, our Master.

If Christ is not within us this is a very hard thing to wrap our minds around. Especially when slave and Master are used.

This all comes down to our love and desire for our Master, Jesus Christ. Do we, like Paul, live and want to live in COMPLETE obedience to Christ? Do we find it an honor and privilege to call Jesus our Master and ourselves His slaves.

I do, and I know I need to do better about living it out.

Jesus what You have done for me shows me the kind of Master You are. You are a Master who layed down Your life for me, Your slave, so that I might have everlasting life. Help me to remove any other Master so that You can be the One and Only ruler of my life. Amen

A Place to Belong

"You are among those who have been called to belong to Jesus Christ..." Romans 1:6

Are you looking for a place to belong? If so look to Jesus, He has a place for you. It's a place where love and mercy flows. A place where you can be the you He created. A place where understanding is found and forgiveness is offered.

Don't worry about all your baggage, leave it at the door, Jesus will take care of it. Because in this place it is fully furnished with all you will ever need.

I hope you find Jesus' home soon. If you ever need help finding it, just let me know, I would love to point out the way.

Jesus help all those who are searching for a place to belong. May they be pointed in Your direction. Amen

Altar Sunday

"Abraham placed the wood of the burnt offering on Isaac's shoulders, while he himself carried the knife and the fire. As the two of them went on together, Isaac said, 'Father?' 'Yes, my son,' Abraham replied. 'We have the wood and the fire,' said the boy, 'but where is the lamb for the sacrifice?' 'God will provide a lamb, my son,' Abraham answered. And they both went on together. When they arrived at the place where God had told Abraham to go, he built an altar and placed the wood on it. Then he tied Isaac up and laid him on the altar over the wood. And Abraham took the knife and lifted it up to kill his son as a sacrifice to the Lord. At that moment the angel of the Lord shouted to him from heaven. 'Abraham! Abraham!'
'Yes,' he answered. 'I'm listening.' 'Lay down the knife,' the angel said. 'Do not hurt the boy in any way, for now I know that you truly fear God. You have not withheld even your beloved son from me.' Then Abraham looked up and saw a ram caught by its horns in a bush. So he took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering on the altar in place of his son.' Genesis 22:6-13

Abraham loved the Lord so much he didn't even withhold his own son from Him. This act of faithfulness and obedience spared the life of Isaac, and the ram became the substitute. Jesus did the same thing for us. He gave His life so ours would be spared.

From the altar to the Cross.

Starting Point

"God loves you dearly, and he has called you to be his very own people." Romans 1:7

I wonder if our inability to fully know and become like Christ is due to our lack of knowledge in who He is?

This inability to really know Him is not because He failed to show us, it's rather quite the opposite. It's our lack of spending time getting to know Him, don't you think?

The Holy Spirit, our Counselor, has been given to us by Christ. He is the key to knowing Christ and living like Christ. Without Him we have no hope.

As the Lord reveals these things to me, my eyes are exposed to knew things about Him, His Word, and the way I am living and searching for Him. 

And the truth is, if I really desire to know Him and become more like Him, then there needs to be some changes made within me; changes that only Christ in me can do. 

And I desperately want those changes to be made, because...God loves me dearly and He has called me to be His very own.

And well, I want to reciprocate that love in return the best that this mortal body can.

So where does one begin in doing so? I believe by getting in the Word (With no distractions) everyday, accepting that I am sinner saved by grace, confessing my sinfulness, repenting, and allowing God's love to consume me and set me free from any lawful living I might be doing, along with focusing on the joys of heaven rather than the problems here on earth.

It might be easy to type and read even hard to do, but brethren with Christ we can do it because all things are possible with Christ.

Jesus You have shown me where to begin in knowing You more and becoming more like You and less like "ME". So as I begin I pray for the strength to persevere, the faith to not doubt or question, the endurance to keep on going, the obedience to be faithful, the vision that sees only You, and the mindset that focuses on Your ability and power. Amen

Look No Farther

"I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God's power for us who believe him." Ephesians 1:19

What is it that you search for, need, desire, long for, want?

Is it love?
Is it hope?
Is it forgiveness?
Is it freedom?
Is it healing?
Is it joy?
Is is companionship?
Is it understanding?
Is it peace?
Is it comfort?
Is it success?
Is it attention?
Is it wealth?

Whatever you are searching for, needing, desiring, or wanting, Jesus is the only one who can fulfill and give you what you TRULY need.

Therefore you can stop looking to man and worldly materials to fulfill and satisfy you.

Jesus You are all we need. What You offer and give has everlasting value. Amen

Overcome

"These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world." John 16:33

Tonight I was visiting with the Lord and we were talking about battles, battles that we fight on a day to day basis; battles such as addictions, sins, habits, etc. I recalled a battle that I had fought and praised the Lord for delivering me from that battle. 

And then I said something that He replayed over and over in my head. 

"Father it often seems like once we overcome one battle we still have another battle right in front of us to overcome. I know this is because we live in a fallen world, but it becomes wearisome and frustrating."

And then He spoke, "Yes, you live in a fallen world. But these battles you don't fight alone. If you will put on your full armor I will protect you from these and together we will overcome them. But it is one battle at a time, and remember with each battle comes growth.  But remember there is something greater, Me, I died for You, I took all these battles that entail sin and placed them upon Me. They are forgiven, every single one of them. So though these battles will come, take courage, because I have overcome the world.”

There is no battle that is greater than our God. Take courage brethren, for this battle you are facing can be overcome in Jesus name!

First Impression

"For when you see me, you are seeing the one who sent me." John 12:45

When you meet someone for the first time, what is their first impression of you? Are they seeing a genuine you or a deceiving you?

Do they see Jesus immediately?

Do you think it's possible for a stranger to sense something different about you?

This is not only my prayer for myself but for my family, especially my boys. As school approaches I pray that every new friend and teacher my boys meet will sense Jesus in them.

I pray Avery and Dax will be able to discern between those who have a love for Jesus and those who don't. I pray their love for all will be great, but that their desire will be to surround themselves with friends who encourage them to be the best for the Lord they can be.

And if your wondering, YES I believe without a doubt that at age 6 and 3 God can and will give them the discernment they need.

First impressions are huge, especially as a follower of Christ.

Jesus may we leave a lasting first impression on those we meet. Shine through us in such a way that people walk away wanting to know what makes us so different. For then we can share You and Your love with them. Amen

From Young to Old

"Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green. They will declare, "The LORD is just! He is my rock! There is nothing but goodness in him!" Psalm 92:14-15

This new role God has called my husband and I into has been quite different. We have gone from working with and praying for high school students to working and praying with and for the elderly. 

Both of these are great things, but very different. In this new calling we are now ministering to men and women who have enjoyed a very full and long life.  

Getting older is inevitable. It's a part of life. It's a part of God's plan. Times will be hard, but this God-given life can be as good as we choose to make it. 

For G and I we have been blessed by these precious men and women who walk into our clinics every day and share their stories with us. 

And do you know one of the greatest things about this new profession? Is that a majority of these patients know and love the Lord and absolutely LOVE to share what Jesus has done for them. 

Since we have started this new calling we have had the opportunity to see joy brought back into the lives of many of these patients when they begin to hear things they have missed for so long. There are many tears shed, lots of laughter, and the most beautiful smiles. 

These precious men and women know what life really is. They are full of knowledge and wisdom, and can bless you so much if you take the time to listen. 

I will admit brethren, it has been quite an adjustment for us, but each day gets better and better and God blesses us more and more and  He continues to reveal Himself to us through the lives of every patient we see. 

Enjoying life is a choice. You either choose to be happy and serve the Lord with joy or you choose to make life hard and spend it joyless. 

For G and I we are getting to see that even though we face difficult times, some even really hard, God will always bring us through it. 

And we have these precious patients that are living proof of God's hand of protection and love. 

Jesus thank You for teaching us and showing Yourself to us through the lives of these patients. Bless them as they continue to live a life that is pleasing to You. Thank You for allowing us the opportunity to serve them. Amen

How Do We?

"You have accomplished this great victory by the strength of your servant. Must I now die of thirst and fall into the hands of these pagan people? Judges 15:18

Just like Samson we often take our eyes off of the Lord and place them on ourselves. How often does this happen? Probably more than any of us care to share.

What is it that makes our eyes go from Christ to self? Do we realize when our vision has changed? Do we immediately try to correct it or do we allow our eyes to stay on ourselves?

How do we focus on God more than we focus on ourselves?

Altar Sunday

Do you have a lot of stress in your life? If so the perfect place to become stress free is the Altar. Jesus will be there to take the load.

You

"Through him we received both the generous gift of his life and the urgent task of passing it on to others who receive it by entering into obedient trust in Jesus. You are who you are through this gift and call of Jesus Christ! And I greet you now with all the generosity of God our Father and our Master Jesus, the Messiah." Romans 1:4-7

The world might make you feel like you are a nobody, but to God...

YOU ARE A SOMEBODY! You are His, the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. You are the child of the Great I Am and you have a PURPOSE.

A God given PURPOSE!

You have meaning and REASON!

Your identity is NOT in the world, it IS in the ONE who CREATED YOU!

Your identity is in JESUS CHRIST!

When Someone Needs Proof

"But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who push the truth away from themselves. For the truth about God is known to them instinctively. God has put this knowledge in their hearts. From the time the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky and all that God made. They can clearly see his invisible qualities-his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse whatsoever for not knowing God." Romans 1:18-20

What do you do when someone tells you they need more proof that Christ is exist?

Do you share your experience of how you came to know Christ?

Do you share your testimony?

Do you search for answers?

Do you avoid the question?

Do you share the Word of God?

Do you pray with and for them?

What do you do? 

If you need some places to go for help on how to share the reality of Jesus you can always begin in Genesis. Then flip on over to Psalm 19 and 139.

From there share what God has done for you. Then always remember to pray with and for them! Once you have shared leave the rest up to the Lord. 

And always praise God for the opportunity to share the truth of the Good News.

Jesus strength our faith in You and use us to share Your truth with those who doubt Your existence. Thank You for revealing to us the beauty of who You are and the love You have for us. Amen

For Every Mom

http://www.aholyexperience.com/2012/08/10-ways-to-be-a-happier-mom/

A Double Day of Thankfulness and Praise

I opened my eyes early so I could just stare at him before he woke. I rubbed his precious little face and praised the Lord for the beauty of His creation. 

My heart full, I whisper a prayer of thanks for this precious gift of life. A life full of health, love, and laughter. 

I am blessed. He is blessed we are all blessed. 

We spend the day celebrating and thanking Jesus for 6 years of life. 

As the day nears an end, he looks at me across the table and says, "Mommy can you believe I have been alive for 6 years? That is a really long time.'

Daddy and I laugh.

Not fast forward several several years to the life of a man who has done nothing but give of himself for me and my sisters and mom. 

He has shown us Jesus through every action and shows us what it means to serve. He still gives of himself to be there whenever we need him. 

With my heart filled up, I whisper another prayer of praise and thankfulness for allowing me to have the most amazing earthly daddy a child could have. I am blessed.

Jesus we are blessed, thankful, and can't praise You enough for this precious gift of life You gave us 6 years ago. Nor can we praise You enough for the precious gift of life You gave my daddy ...years ago. I am thankful, not only for two wonderful men in my life, but that You have made this day double precious. Bless these two as they celebrate another year of life. Amen

Heart Check

"You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times.  For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred.  They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good.  They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God.  They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!" 2 Timothy 3:3-5

How do we keep from becoming like this? How do we make sure our family does not fall into these categories? 

Maybe we could start by admitting which ones we personally struggle with and then make sure we confess and repent turning away from them. 

It's not an easy thing, but if we don't confess and repent then not only will that way of living destroy us, it will destroy our families.

Have you already seen these things amongst your family and yourself?

It happens, God even says so.  

It's sad when you see families fall apart because of pride, selfishness, bitterness, and anger. 

You know this verse goes against Christ's nature, love and commands.

Maybe we need to stay here a little while and allow Christ to reveal to us the parts that He sees in us. Then we need to take those parts and see what the rest of His Word says about them and how to overcome them and be set free from them.

I will be the first to admit it stinks when the Lord reveals to you areas that need to be fixed. But what's worse is when He shows us and we don't do anything about it! 

But I want to be better for Him, don't You?

Jesus reveal to me any of these sins that are lurking within me.  Reveal to me any and all sour aroma. I want to be better for You. I want to offer up the sweetest aroma to You and I want to be a reflection of You, so others will come to know and want more of You. Amen

The Role of Dads

"Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us." Titus

It's this role, this example that daddies and men must set for their boys. It starts at birth and continues until death. 

Every action, expression, word spoken, mannerism is watched. Trust must be established and kept. Love must be weaved through every single thing. 

The example that is set now will last a lifetime.

Let's pray for our dads as they seek to raise young boys into Godly men.

Jesus thank You for all the dads. We ask Your hand to be upon them as they raise these precious boys You have given them. Give them wisdom and strength and discernment. May their greatest achievements come from knowing their sons have a personal relationship with You. Amen

Altar Sunday

She entered the Church for the first time nervous and scared. She didn't know what to expect but she was desperate; desperate for help, hope, and relief.

The shame and guilt she carried was so great she felt as though everyone could see it. She makes her way to a seat, sits down completely unnoticed. The emptiness grew even bigger within her.

As the service began she realized how alone she felt surround by a big group of people laughing and hugging and visiting. She began to fill out of place.

But she stayed...

She was desperate to learn about this Jesus that could save her, free her and heal her. She stayed in hopes of finding Him.

As the service began to draw near to the end the invitation was given and the altar was open. Not sure what she was to do she felt a uncomfortable tug to go. Shaking, scared and broken she kneels at the altar and begins to cry. Having no idea what to say she feels someone kneel beside her and they begin to whisper all the words she was searching for but couldn't find or say through the tears and pain.

The altar...someone needs you there.

What's the Title of Your Book?

"Follow God's example in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love for others, following the example of Christ, who loved you and gave himself as a sacrifice to take away your sins. And God was pleased, because that sacrifice was like sweet perfume to him." Ephesians 5:1-2

If our lives were an open book for all to read, would Jesus be found on every page? Would people come to know the Lord from what they read? Would they see and desire a relationship with Him like the one you and Him have that has been written about?

Would they read a life that has been saved by His amazing mercy and grace, that now offers the same mercy and grace to others?

Would each page represent the magnificent blood of Christ that delivered you and set you free?

At the closing of your book would people walk away knowing more about Christ than they did before they read your life book?

What would the title of your book be?

A Thick Layer of Jesus

"Be strong with the Lord's mighty power. Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil." Ephesians 6:10-11

I was overwhelmed by the group of kids that walked in front of me and my family at the mall. I couldn't believe the language that came out of their mouths, nor could I get over the outfits these young ladies were wearing. 

I was shocked to say the least and as I did what I could to remove my boys from the profanity G looked at me and said, "This overwhelms you doesn't it?"

Right after G said that another wave of young teens walked by us doing the same thing, and I felt trapped, sad, and uncomfortable. 

We finally got out of the mall and I was speechless. I became so sad at the thought of all these young men and women acting in the manner that they did that I immediately wanted to home school my boys. 

And then it began, question after question I began to throw G's way. Why? How? Where are their parents, do their parents know they are doing this, dressing like this, speaking like this? 

How can I protect my boys from all of this, what is it going to be like when they are that age? How can I make sure God is the focus of their life?

Oh, merciful Lord cover my babies in the thickest layer of Your Word that is possible. I can't remove them from this world and the sin that fills it, but You Father can protect them, surround them, and live so strong within them that they live differently. Help them to see the bigger picture, the picture of heaven and You that awaits them. Take control of their thoughts, guide their every action, and shield their eyes and protect their ears from the ugliness that is seen and heard that is not of You. Jesus choose their friends for them, friends who love and serve You with all of their being. Friends who challenge them to be better for You. Friends who will encourage them and build them up. Jesus G and I know the importance of Godly friends, they are valuable and last a lifetime. Fill our boys with wisdom beyond their years, wisdom that is genuine, loving and sincere. Make them leaders who lead others closer to You. Give them a desire to live and reflect You. Clothe them in Your armor protecting them from the fiery arrows of Satan. Thank You for loving us and most of all thank You for what You did on the Cross for each of us. Amen

Bleach Germs Sin and God's Word

I was once told to stop using so much bleach and to stop keeping my house so clean so that some germs could get in allowing our bodies to build up ammunity to them. I laughed at the comment because if anyone knows me they know that is not going to happen.

Besides it doesn't matter how much bleach or Lysol I use germs are always present. Just like sin!

Sin is everywhere and it needs to be handled just like germs. We need to be constantly on guard, prepared, covered and protected with God's Word. His armor is our weapon of defense. It is our safety, protection and it is what kills and keeps sin at bay.

Bleach is a killer to germs like God's Word is to sin.

We need more of God's Word, we need to be using it more, sharing it more, speaking it more, and storing it more because sin is spreading.

Jesus wrap us in Your armor and protect us from sin. Amen

Teaching our Children Selfless Living

How do you teach your kids to be selfless?

I have noticed with my two that we have been headed in a direction of selfishness. Are we giving them more than they need? Are we showing them what living a selfless life looks like?

Do they see and understand through our actions what selflessness is, does, and it's purpose? Or do they see selfish living?

Jesus was the most selfless person, so if we desire to be like Him, won't we too desire selflessness for ourselves and our children?

Jesus help me and G to set a better example of selflessness. May we put our selfish desires aside and do more for You and others. Amen

Be Reminded

"Now you can have sincere love for each other as brothers and sisters because you were cleansed from your sins when you accepted the truth of the Good News." 1 Peter 1:22

Is there a hurt or fault that is so bad that you can't forgive? Do you, in your heart hold such resentment towards that person(s) that you are allowing Satan to have such a stronghold on you that you are full of more bitterness than you are love?

If so, be reminded that not only did Jesus forgive you, He took everyone of your sins upon himself and then died so that you might be saved.

How can you not forgive when you have been forgiven?

Easily Tainted

Do you know how quickly we can be absorbed by the things of this world? Think about a paper towel placed in a cup of coffee. If you roll it up and stand it straight up you can actually watch as the coffee moves up the paper towel. Do you know what the coffee does to the paper towel? It turns it brown.

My point, the coffee represents the world and we are the paper towel. The more we sit and soak in the things of the world the more we become tainted and like the world. 

So, how do we really separate ourselves from the world? Do we really even desire to be separated from the World?

I often find myself caught up in so much of the worldly stuff and when God slows me down I realize just how easy it is to lose sight of the things of heaven. 

Is this what I am teaching my boys, the busyness of life, the pleasure of worldly things, a right now mentality? 

These are my own personal convictions, convictions that the Lord reveals to me with so much force it knocks the breath out of me. 

We desire more time in our days, yet so much of the time we are given is wasted on wants, self, pleasure, money, feel good things. 

Could it be that are minds, thoughts, and hearts are being saturated with more of the world than with God's Word?

Oh, brethren this is truth. If we don't discipline ourselves and spend time in God's Word, we will become tainted. We will begin to go through the motions and pace of the world instead of living and action on God's Word.

I need a change to take place within me that is so powerful, so strong, so overwhelmingly real that my heart is shattered and then put back together new and absorbed with only Christ and His Word. 

"You would not be pleased with sacrifices, or I would bring them. If I brought you a burnt offering, you would not accept it. The sacrifice you want is a broken spirit. A broken and repentant heart, O God, you will not despise." Psalm 51:16-17

  

Jesus only You are able to turn our tainted hearts back to white. Please do so Father. Move in a mighty way with in us. May the move be so real, so strong, so life-changing that we are never the same again. Shatter the hardness and remove any and all callouses within us. Jesus help us to be better stewards with our time. And may we be more thankful for the time You are giving us to be changed, and make right what has been wrong. Amen

Altar Sunday

Is your need and desire for Jesus so great you run to the altar?

Their Hearts are Tender and Sponge-like

"When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instruction with kindness." Proverbs 31:26

It's important to remember how much of an impact our words have on our children.

Be wise and heed the counsel of the Holy Spirit when speaking to your children. Your words will either build them up or tear them down. Don't let your words become your child's downfall.

Jesus take control of what we say O Lord keep our lips sealed so that nothing ugly will spew out. Remind us that there are little hearts involved along with little ears that hear more than we know. Amen

Mom, Mama, Mommy, Mother...

She is more than my mom, mama, mommy, mother. She is my best friend and there is not an ounce in me that could possibly love her anymore. I am beyond capacity.

Today she celebrates another year of life, and it's another year I savor and cherish. The older I get the more I realize just how important every second is with those you love.

I have said many times before that I have the most amazing parents in the world and could not be anymore blessed than I am.

She has been my biggest supporter, encourager, comforter, protector, care-taker and listener. She is now and will always be the best Nana to two little boys who think she hung the moon.

I know where she learned it, from her mama. Her mama was the same way!

Loved mama, is what you are, not by just me, but by 8 grand kids, two daughters, three son-in-laws, a husband, two sisters, three brothers, and a mommy and daddy who although went on ahead of you still love you more than their hearts could hold.

You have blessed me, set the most amazing example for me, and have showed me that living a life for the Lord is done through action and character.

You my sweet woman, surpass them all. There is none greater than you.

No matter how old I get, I will ALWAYS be your baby.

Happy Birthday Sugar

God's Abundance of Blessings

"He is so rich in kindness that he purchased our freedom through the blood of his Son, and our sins are forgiven. He has showered his kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding." Ephesians 1:7-8

I would be lying if I told you I was aware of all of the amazing gifts and blessings the Lord pours out upon us.

I have begun studying the book of Ephesians and in Chapter 1 alone, Paul lists blessing after blessing. And who receives all those blessings? All who belong to Christ Jesus.

I can't shake this immeasurable amount of love God has for me/us. It's overwhelming, yet so simple.

All who believe in Christ are identified as His own and given the Holy Spirit, whom He promised long ago.

What on earth can ever compare to God's blessings? Nothing!

Brethren, God loves you and He wants to pour out His blessings on you. Let Him and accept them.

Jesus thank You for showing me over and over in Your Word Your love for me. There is not one thing I deserve yet You continue to shower Your blessings all over me. Thank You that I am Yours forever. Amen

How Brief the Time

"Lord remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered, and that my life is fleeing away. My life is no longer than the width of my hand. An entire lifetime is just a moment to you; human existence is but a breath." Psalm 39:4-5

I could not help but come back to this verse today as I was watching my boys play and talk and do all the things a 5 and 3 year old do. I can't believe how quickly time goes by. I can't believe how quickly August came.

It is so easy to get caught up in the craziness of life that before we know summer has flown by, School is about to start, and a new year is already at our heels.

Life has been far from normal for the Morgan family, especially since April when the Lord called G out of something we though he would do forever. 

I hold my breath not wanting to miss another second with my family. Just this morning Avery was telling me how excited he was to begin school and turn 6. I made a sad face and he said, "Mommy, why don't you want me to get big?" 

What do you even say to a little boy who can't wait to be big like his daddy? I want them to stay little forever, but I know it's just not reality. 

So I cling to the Lord trusting Him with every growth spurt, every new school year and every new age. Time is so brief and I don't want to waste it being so busy that I miss the little things God is showing me and teaching me.

Lord remind me how brief my time and my families time is. Remind us that are days are numbered and that we must spend every second of those days honoring and obeying You. Loving one another and sharing Your Word with any and every one we come into contact with. Amen

Out of Commission

This is the longest I have ever gone without posting a devo. I have missed it, but it has been a nice break, and well I have been out of commission since Monday.

I am finally getting back on my feet and have been missing writing.

I love sharing God's Word with you so I am thrilled to be back.