She Wanted Him Dead

Feb23

Today I am publishing a testimony by Betty (not her real name). She prefers to remain anonymous because of the subject content and maybe she thinks if people knew who she was there might be a little bit of judgement or shock. The content is very sensitive and is not for children. Our God is powerful and loving and full of grace and I urge you to call on that same grace  as you read this post.

 

She had become a shadow of herself. She had given herself away to please him. Who was she? What should she do?  She had lost her desire to live. Having been awakened by the shrill sound of what could only be described as someone’s heart breaking; in a fog of denial she realized her worst fear had finally come true. Her husband had been caught in the act, with his best friend’s wife by his best friend!

 She had been asleep in the other room, having tried to stay awake but losing the battle. Before going to bed she checked her gun and it was loaded. She walked over to the chest of drawers opened the gun case, pulled out the 9mm pistol and removed its clip counted the bullets, reinserted it and turned off the safety. They were right across the hall in the den; she knew they wouldn’t be able to resist each other. She could see the deceit in their eyes, feel the intimate tension between them. But they wouldn’t get away with it this time… She would pick up her gun on the way into the other room and destroy them in the act; like they had destroyed her.

 She had become consumed with thoughts of what he was doing to her, to their marriage.  Many days when he came home he smelled like her.  He’d have that smug look of satisfaction on his face. She felt sure he wanted the other woman.  He had changed, his kisses and every intimate thing between them was different.  Where was the man she had married?

 She was going to make them pay, and destroy them like they had destroyed her by taking their lives.  Police would call it a crime of passion, and temporary insanity was going to be her plea. Since she had lost his love, she considered it worth the risk. 

 But fate (God) went another way that night and instead his best friend caught them. She didn’t get to act on her desires. Since he had caught them she would never get away with it. So the gun was left in the case. They had gotten away with it.

 The sound of his best friend’s loud shrill voice in the night and the memory of the coward she had married running away, kept replaying over and over in her head.  It was haunting her, it wouldn’t stop. So she ran away, finally stopping when she reached the ocean unable to run any further. Walking alone on the dark beach she wanted to die, even prayed for death to come. She was empty and numb, a mere shadow of her former self. Would she ever find herself again? Would the desire to live return? Could she be freed from her narcissistic addiction to that useless excuse of a man?

  Sadly, no she was obsessed with him. She went right back.  She returned to her miserable existence of living in his shadow, staying lost to herself, and wondering if the affair was truly over. But he had begun talking in his sleep about the other woman so she knew it wasn’t.

 This is a true story, of my former self. I was a lost woman who chose to live life in the direction of my choosing instead of God’s. What I didn’t tell you is that when I ran away people showed me God’s love over and over again. There was a preacher in a tatoo parlor who spoke words of encouragement to me and  my sister and sister-in-law were with me helping me along the way.  They tried to stop me from walking alone on that beach in fear that I would harm myself or someone else would harm me. But on that beach I reunited with God. I still made the wrong choices and returned to a bad marriage; but I learned something very valuable on that trip. Just because I tried to leave God; He never left me.

My friend eventually left that marriage and is now married to a believer who loves her more than himself. She is a woman who does not take for granted all God has done in her life and shares His love and grace with other women every opportunity she gets. Amen and praise to our Father who is faithful all the time.

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I Fell Down The Stairway To Heaven

Feb22

I was thinking about the song Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin yesterday. So I pulled up the words on Google and read back over them. They really didn’t make much sense to me except when he sang, “and she’s buying a stairway to heaven.” It makes me think of the times in my life that I thought I could buy my way on up that stairway.

For years into my Christian life I followed the Savior pretty good by my own standards. I made my way up the stairway just fine without much looking back. Putting one foot in front of the other I marched up each step by living according to the rules. My children were in church every Sunday, I was a submissive wife and I served in the capacity anyone asked me to at the church. Personal time with the Lord was hard to come by but I was “doing” everything I could on my end. I just kept dragging myself up that stairway so I could hear those much coveted words “Well done good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23

Eventually there came that time when I could no longer climb those stairs. I stumbled and fell to the bottom. As I lay there crumpled up in a heap, I felt completely defeated. Now I would not hear those words I had so longed to hear, “Well done my good and faithful servant.” Where were all those “rules”, “obligations”, and “works” when I needed them most?

The truth is they were dead….they had always been dead, I just didn’t know it.

For some reason salvation for me included working to make God proud of me, working to keep up appearances for other Christians, and striving to serve and prove my love for God. But after lying in a pit of deep despair and sin for a while, I finally gave up and came to the end of myself.

Flash forward to a new day, today! What have I learned about that Stairway to Heaven? There isn’t one! And guess what? There’s no drudgery, working, striving, or pleasing to get to the top in order to hear those words I so wanted to hear. Amazingly enough the Father loves me just as I am. When I became His child He created me new, complete, whole, beautiful, and precious in His sight. Now I understand God’s Holy Spirit lives in me giving me a “want to” and desire to be like Jesus. There’s no working at it to make it happen but only resting in Him to let it happen. It has freed me to be the woman of God I was created to be. I can take off the masks that I’ve been hiding behind for so many years. Now in those times when I listen to the Spirit I naturally, I mean “supernaturally” do what He’s calling me to do. My motivation for serving our God is love, and oh how I love Him because He first loved me. 1 John 4:9

How Is Life Different Under Grace Rather Than Law?

Feb20

 

In His fullness we have all received grace after grace. John 1:16

What is grace to me? It is the freedom to be who I am in Christ Jesus. Freedom to speak up for the Gospel of grace and it be truth. (Galatians 1:5-7) It is a truth many to do not want to hear because it is not balanced with Law. Grace and law cannot be balanced and were not meant to be balanced. For we are not under the law but under grace. (Galatians 2:21)I thank God that I am under grace because I cannot keep the law. ( Romans 6:14) Believe me when I say I tried for years. But after continuous failures and falls I beat myself up daily and realized there would never be victory if I lived this way. 

My pastor said this yesterday, “We are not living for the rules but we are living for the Ruler.” For so long I tried to live by the rules doing it in my flesh and strength. Guess where it got me? In a pit of low self-esteem, depression and sin. That’s exactly where this road leads. Upon finding out the truth of the Gospel, that Jesus forgave all my sin, gave me new life and I became a new creation, life began to change for me. I no longer felt the condemnation of never being able to live up to God’s standards and the standards others set for me. It became clear that Christ lived in me and He would live for me if only I would let Him. (Galatians 2:20)

Life under the law leads to more sin. (Romans 5:19-21) Doesn’t sound right does it? Here’s what happened to me. When I found I was free to be the woman God created me to be I got excited about who I was and where I was going. I rested in the love of my Father knowing I could never lose it. Joy overwhelmed me as I discovered my true identity in Christ. My love for my God grew daily because it was an overflow of His love for me. Sin became obsolete, a second thought. (Romans 8:9-10) Of course I still sin but the knowledge of His love and grace hold me up knowing my relationship with Him has not changed because of sin. Then when I understood Christ wanted to live life in and through me I really began to enjoy Christianity for the first time in 20 years. (Colossians 1:27)

When Christ lives life through me He takes the burden of it all and leads me in the way I should go for each circumstance. He is my voice, my eyes, my heart, my actions when I allow Him to do His marvelous works through me. Many times I find myself standing in awe and praising my God because of the things He has done. I cannot boast or take credit for anything that He does for eternity through my life. (1 Corinthians 15:10, Galatians 6:14)

Life is an adventure with Jesus as life because I never know what’s next on the agenda. I know He has purpose and plans for me and because I love Him so and know His love is unconditional I am willing to go along for the ride.

He is strong in me when I am weak. I know I cannot produce the fruit of the Spirit but He can and when weakness comes if I am surrendered to His will He becomes my strength in every situation I encounter. (1 Cornthians 12:9)

Honestly there is no way to live a full, abundant life other than through His grace. Under grace there is an understanding of just how monumental and complete God’s forgiveness is for me. (Colossians 2:14) And in this understanding I am able to give forgiveness and grace to those around me. Under law I hold each one accountable without releasing the burden to Him and therefore suffer unforgiveness which eats away at my very soul. Grace enables me to give, give and give some more because it is not me doing it, it is Jesus in me.

Today I am in a perfect relationship with my Savior and God. Not because of anything I have done but because of everything Jesus did. He finished it all, paid it all and gave His all for me and you. His grace is forever, it is real, it is perfect and it never fails.

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Idols, Altars, and Writer’s Block

Feb17

Welcome my new friend Christie Lambert. She and I are staff writer’s together over at Christian Women Online Network. I so loved her writing that I asked if she would share with you today. You’ll love it too. So go get a cup of coffee, Diet Coke or a tall glass of water and enjoy reading some of Christie’s testimony. Be sure and check out her blog So Beloved.

 

It’s my mom’s fault that I’m writing this.

 See, about a year and a half ago, I called her in a frustrated panic after a long while of unfruitful writing efforts. My novel came back from the agent as an ‘almost good enough’. My short stories kept getting rejected. And my new work was falling flat — so flat that I kept boring myself to sleep by the computer (literally). Knowing that my mother was kind of obligated to listen to me whine (not many people would sign up to hear someone moan about their writing habits), I called her up one night. The conversation went something like this:

Me: I don’t know what’s happening. I can’t write anything. Nothing. Every time I try to write a short story, it just crumbles. There are no new ideas!

Mom: Uh-huh?

Me: So, basically, I think I’m done. All I’ve wanted to do my whole life is write and now I’m in permenant writer’s block. I don’t know what to do about it! Is it time to give up?

Silence. I’m thinking she’s coming up with some inspirational speech. Some motivation, some prayerful hope. At least some motherly sympathy.

Mom: laughter. Lots of loud, loud laughter.

Me: (She’s not even listening! She’s watching people make funny faces on YouTube!) Um, Mom? Did you hear me?

Mom: (Catching her breath though the laughter) I heard you! It’s just so funny!

Me: (feel free to ascribe a high-pitched tone here): Funny?!?!?!

Mom: Yes! Because I’ve been praying that God would step in and help you to use your writing for what He wanted instead of those depressing stories you’ve been writing!

Me: You’ve been praying about my writing.

Mom: Yep.

Me: And I haven’t been able to write anything.

Mom: That’s what you’re telling me.

Me: This writer’s block is all your fault.

Mom: Sounds like something you need to talk to God about.

Me: Speechless. And thinking — but what if He takes it away?

What if He takes it away?

 Even as I thought it, I heard the truth behind that question. A truth that was hard for me to hear coming from my own heart.

 My devotion was to this dream instead of to the Dream-Giver. An idol was front and center in my life. But why? Didn’t I love the Lord? Didn’t I want Him to be the epicenter of my world? Hadn’t I surrendered my life to Him long ago?

 I began to think about idols…as I considered the history of the Israelites forgetting the Lord and turning to man-made gods, it became clear. They turned to idols when they stopped trusting that the Great I AM, the Almighty Lord, was who He said He was — the only true God. The Deliverer. The King of Heaven and Earth. They doubted that He was enough — and so they looked to idols for help, for strength, to fill the void in their hearts.

 After being in a relationship with Him for most of my life…after seeing His presence and knowing His mercy…did I, just like the Israelites, fail to put my trust in Him? But how could my writing be an idol? Wasn’t I writing to serve Him?

 The Holy Spirit opened my eyes, real quick, to the answer to that question.

 Because, somewhere along the way, my motivation had changed. I wanted to write because I wanted to succeed. I wanted to prove to myself (and everyone else) that I wasn’t a failure. I wanted to be important. Valuable. And my writing was the only shot I had to gain those things. Wasn’t that the talent the Lord had given me? Wasn’t writing His purpose for me? If I failed that, then I once again failed Him. And fear of failure haunted me.

 Because hadn’t I let everyone down? Hadn’t I dropped out of college, gotten pregnant, gotten married so much sooner than I’d ever planned? Hadn’t I gone from Most Likely to Succeed to Stay-At-Home-Mommy in a town so small that no one had ever heard of it?

 I smiled and tried to keep myself together. But on the inside, I was a mess. I didn’t believe I was worth anything. I tried to find emotional satisfaction in the love of my husband, completely falling apart if we had a tough moment. I knew I was not enough to keep my husband happy, to be a good mother.

 I was looking for satisfaction in the arms of my idol, not yet understanding. The real problem was that I didn’t trust that Jesus was enough to fulfill my heart.

 I would’ve said that I believed it and I did. In my head. But there was a disconnect to my heart.

 Because my heart didn’t believe it. My heart didn’t believe that I’d be satisfied if I lost everything and was left with my faith. My heart didn’t believe that I was enough, just as I was — without accomplishments to decorate my life, without the world acknowledging that I was smart, talented, somebody. My heart didn’t truly believe that His love was without my merit. I didn’t believe that my life would actually matter until I made something of it.

 And I was terrified to give my idol up, for fear that I’d find out I was right.

 But I was at a breaking point. Even when I looked at my family and the blessings in my life, I felt dark inside and then even more sure that I was doing everything wrong. I could not hold onto joy.

 I am so grateful for my mother’s prayers. I am so grateful that our God is a Shepherd who will come looking for even one lost lamb.

 Because with that (divine!) writer’s block, I had a choice to make. I could take a leap of faith, giving up that idol to instead trust that Jesus is exactly who He says is — or I could continue in my fear, clinging to what I could do on my own, never really taking the Lord at His word. Never really tasting to see if He really is good. Never really giving up my own life to find His instead.

 I took the leap.

Are there words to adequately describe the marvel of surrendering one’s self and being given such life in return? It’s a life as big and glorious as the bursting colors of a sunrise…a life as precious and delicate as the outstretched wings of a sparrow, soaring on a breeze. It is His life that He gave and gives in abundance — and in this life, friends, I found that He is exactly who He says He is. Like the Psalmist, I can say that “I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.” (Psalm 34:4)

 He is the restorer of broken things, healer of pain. He is peace where there is none, comfort in every kind of weather. He is friend closer than any other. He loves me, because of who He is and not because of who I am.

 And me? I am His child. I am valuable because He breathed life into me. I fulfill my purpose when I glorify Him; my ‘success’ is in giving up my life and letting His shine through. My purpose was never what I could do for Him — my heart was what He wanted.

 I can say with confidence that He is enough. If my life points to Him, then it has mattered.

 He brings contentment. He brings joy. He brings peace. He is the artist who brings beauty. When I struggle, when I have trouble — He is with me. When I fall short, it is not failure that defines me but grace.

 He is love that sustains.

 I’d always thought that once I delighted in the Lord, He’d give me the desires of my heart (Psalm 37:4) — and I’d imagine a stellar career, a life loud with excitement and achievement ‘for’ Him…what I didn’t understand until I took that leap was that once we delight in the Lord, He becomes our desire. And those old dreams can never compare to the satisfaction of His love. Now I can honestly say to my Father:

Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. ~Psalm 73:25-26

The amazing thing is that everything I found to be true in my life is true in yours. I don’t know what dreams or relationships you’re holding tight — but if there is something that you’re afraid that God will ask you to give up, it might be time to look a little deeper. Are you clinging to that thing because you’re afraid that your life will be diminished if you lose it? Are you afraid that you will lose your own value if you give it up?

 If that rings true, at all….if you have your own idol that has been taking up room in your heart, I pray that you will ask the Holy Spirit to help you build an altar in place of it so that you can surrender your heart completely. Because you will find that your identity is not in the things of this world, but in your Father. You will find that your worth is not in what you’ve done, but in who you are in Him.

 You will find that He satisfies your soul in a way that you never imagined possible.

 You will find Jesus, the Savior who first came seeking you…and He will be all that you need.

 By entering through faith into what God has always wanted to do for us—set us right with him, make us fit for him—we have it all together with God because of our Master Jesus. And that’s not all: We throw open our doors to God and discover at the same moment that he has already thrown open his door to us. We find ourselves standing where we always hoped we might stand—out in the wide open spaces of God’s grace and glory, standing tall and shouting our praise. ~Romans 5:1-2, The Message

Christie Lambert is a small-town, southern writer who is daily amazed by the love of God. Although she loves fiction and has published a few short stories here and there, her writing is now focused on sharing the grace of Jesus that has swept her off her feet. She is usually doing laundry for her three small kids and musician-husband, drinking (too much) coffee, and reading while cooking (not recommended for those who like edible meals). She is currently obsessed with learning how to play the guitar and finishing her degree in Religious Studies. Christie can be contacted at christiedlambert@gmail.com and blogs at http://sobeloved.wordpress.com

 

 

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A Valentine Story: The Girl and the Hippie

Feb14

 I’m also posting over at my other fav place Christian Women’s Online Network. Read my front page article Is There Perfect Love? Enjoy this day and remember God loves you so much.

 
 

Wedding Day

In the year 1979 a young 15-year-old girl went on a blind double date with a good looking, long-haired, popular guy from school and another couple. She really didn’t know how to act as this was her first date. They went to a drive-in movie where they saw Meatballs starring Bill Murray.

After this date the two fell in love or it sure felt like it. The girl’s parents were not too excited that she had gotten so serious so young but agreed to allow her to date the “hippy”, as her dad called him, if he would get a haircut and take the loud muffler off his car. Which he did because he wanted to date the one he loved so much.

They dated two years to the day and got married August 1, 1981 with one stipulation from her father, she had to graduate high school. Which she did, proudly, and only missing 51 days of school! Can you believe the school system allowed her to graduate?

They lived life together, had two children, moved to two states other than Georgia and even lived in Germany a year because he was stationed there with the army.

These two grieved together over the loss of animals, aunts, uncles, and parents. They rejoiced over healings, salvations, triumphs of their children and each other. They supported and loved each other as they walked and sometimes ran the hardest roads two could go down.

These two Valentines have never given up, have held on for dear life, have sat and listened, laughed and cried, fought and made peace, forgiven and made a life together. But the greatest gift the two have given and received is love, love that only a loving God could implant in their hearts for one another. This love has and will endure, this love will grow old together, this love will hug grandchildren one day, this love accepts one another, this love protects, gives unselfishly, is kind and everlasting.

This life and this love is mine. The man I love and live it with is my husband Ed. I am thankful for all God Himself has given us together. Happy Valentine’s Day baby!

Valentine’s Day Babies, Array of Dogs

Feb13

Valentine’s Day is almost here so I thought I would share some pics I took of my Valentine babies.

Georgia (pom), Lola (bulldog) and Gabe (sheltie)!

 Yes here they are, my array of dogs in all various sizes, shapes and kinds. Georgia is the Pomeranian, she’s just had her hair done Friday. Lola, the English Bulldog, is a real bully and the newest baby although she’s over 2 years old. Gabe is the dog there with no clothes on, he just got his hair cut Friday too. I thought I said “cut it short” to the groomer, not “cut it off” but he is a Shetland Sheepdog believe it or not!

 

There they are my Valentine babies. I love them so much cause they bring our family happiness and love and craziness.

Come back tomorrow for my Valentine story The Girl and the Hippie.
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Got Wisdom? Need Some?

Feb11

1 Corinthians 1:30-31 But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption, so that, just as it is written, “LET HIM WHO BOASTS, BOAST IN THE LORD.”

I am super comforted in the fact that I can have all the wisdom I need for any situation that arises even though I am not a scholar, professor or theologian. I do not have to be learned in all the ways of the world to make wise decisions and right choices. According to these verses those IN Christ Jesus have wisdom because Jesus became wisdom for us when He paid the debt for our sin on the cross.

I believe what happens to some of us along the way is that we become so dependent on our own human wisdom, that the wisdom God has given us goes unnoticed. We live day to day making our own decisions, going our own way and stumbling along hoping we’ve made the right choices. But there is no right choice without the wisdom of God. There is no right relationship, job, financial issue, ministry opportunity or anything else without godly wisdom first.

“But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God…” We don’t have to search the world over for it, read about it, go to school for it or ask our friends and family for it, we have Wisdom in us because Jesus is Wisdom. He gives us His Word and it is alive! He speaks to us through it every time we seek answers. A priority in our prayer lives should be to ask for the godly wisdom that’s already in us to overflow into everything we say, do and think. Proverbs 4:7 Wisdom is the principal thing; Therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding. The only way to get wisdom is to get Jesus as Savior and Lord. Jesus is everything we need to live this life. Without the Savior there is no chance that we can follow our true purpose and calling because He’s the guide for life.

James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. I am learning to walk in His wisdom, not as an occasional thing only when I have a problem, but as an everyday thing. As I encounter people from all walks of life, make financial decisions, decide whether or not to pursue an opportunity or need a specific word to say, it is His godly wisdom that I need and want to direct it all. Scripture tells me to ask. So I do ask and I ask that it be given liberally, and generously. I want all I can get of this gift Christ has bestowed within me. And our Father is faithful to keep His promises. He said He’d give it if I asked and He would give it liberally and He  comes through every time.

Jesus is Wisdom. There are no boundaries, no limits set on this promise. We need wisdom to live, to make any aspect of life work for eternity. So we ask, and He gives, then we trust and obey.  One of the most liberating things I have ever done was to finally listen to and obey the leading of our wise God. I released certain family members and gave them to Him fully (they were His anyway). The wisdom in this is that I have relinquished them to my holy, perfect, loving God who wants the best for them and will do what’s best for them. I have already witnessed life changes. To God be the glory great things He is doing, has done and will continue to do. Amen.

Ephesians 1:17 “that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him…”

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It’s Amazing What A Change In Eating Can Teach you

Feb4
English: A Hostess CupCake, shown whole.

Image via Wikipedia

After a week of practically no carbs, sugar, dairy and meat I’ve learned a few things.

1- Veggies cooked in olive oil are pretty tasty with a little seasoning.

2- I have to really use my imagination to get variety in this type of diet.

3- God answers prayers like, “I feel like I’m starving but I’m really not so please make it stop!”

4- When I really want to rely on God for strength I can do. For something like this, willpower just isn’t enough.

5- Willpower just isn’t enough!

6- Trying to keep myself and hubby eating like this is harder than I thought. But together we did it. I don’t know if he prayed for himself but I prayed enough for both of us I think.

7- Having a box of Hostess chocolate cupcakes in the house is not a good idea at a time like this. Almost had a relapse but we stared the box down then put it back in the pantry. No! They are not in trash where they belong. Hubby will not let me throw them out.

8- Hubs will get desperate when a sweet tooth attacks and cherry cough drops become like candy to him. Hall’s cough drops!

9- I can cook fresh cabbage and it tastes pretty darn good.

10- This type of diet is a natural system cleaner outer. I was in the bathroom for the first 3 days!

11- Eventually the stomach does shrink a little and smaller amounts of food satisfy.

12- It is harder to get back on a diet after you’ve gone off for one meal during your brother’s birthday party where Mudslide cake was served and while you waited for your piece you literally felt your mouth watering and you wanted to help your sister-in-law cut the piece faster because you couldn’t wait much longer. Then you ate the entire piece of chocolate heaven….

13- But I did go back to the healthy way of eating the next day and prayed some more for God to do it again and He did. He is so good.

By the way I lost between 4 and 5 pounds!

 

Jesus Is Not Merely Your Priority

Feb2

Jesus is….

He is to me so much. He is to the world more than they know. He is everything we need in the here and now and forever. I’m excited about my new series Jesus Is because I get to explore more of the depth of who our Savior was back in the day, who He is now and who He is to come! I have begun praying every day for a deeper revelation of who He is in my life and I’ve discovered He is my life. In days past I made a priority list and of course Jesus was right at the top, underneath Him came my husband, children, family, ministry, job, etc. I put the Savior neatly in His place and tried to make sure I made time for Him in the morning. If I didn’t get to Him then I surely got to Him in the evening after everyone went to bed. Yes it was my time alone with Jesus.

The problem with this was that “my time” with Him was never enough time. I could never get my fill, distractions bombarded me, I didn’t “hear” from the Lord like I wanted. Where was I going wrong? After all this was the spiritual discipline I had been taught all my Christian life and it should be working… right?

One day a friend and I were talking and she told me she wanted to share some truths from God’s Word with me. At the time I was a Sunday School teacher and wondered what it was she thought she could teach me, but thought I’d hear her out. She gave me a few CD’s and I took them not sure if I’d listen to them or not.

Weeks later I remembered the CD’s in my car, was bored so I popped one in and the guy teaching spoke about God’s love and grace. His message was life to me. It was more than what I had known about the Gospel, it went further than my sins being forgiven, it taught that Jesus was my life right now here on this earth. He wasn’t just a priority to deal with everyday then set aside, no, He was my life.

Jesus as life is found in Scripture in Colossians 3:2-3 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. His isn’t just a piece of the puzzle He is the whole puzzle. He’s the reason there is a puzzle. So how does this apply to my life literally? I can think of several ways:

1-     He is in every conversation I have because as I speak I can allow Him to speak through me.

2-     He is in every thought I have because I have the mind of Christ if I will only allow Him to flow.

3-     He is in every step I take because His Spirit living in me guides me to truth in all things.

This means Jesus gets out of bed with me to greet my family and loves them through me. He goes to work with me and gives my co-worker a hug because the night before she found out her husband’s having an affair. He smiles at the cashier at Wal-Mart and gives a kind word because she feels like a failure today. All these things I know nothing about, but He does. Jesus in me, going with me, being life to me touches people from the minute I get up until the time I lay my head down at night.

Romans 8:5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. It is when we make an intentional decision to live according to the Spirit that Jesus shows Himself as our life. Its then He begins to live His life out loud through us. The question has been asked, ”Who can live your life for you?” You’d probably answer “Me”. Next question, “Who can live Jesus’ life for Him?” Of course you’d say “Only Jesus could live His own life.” So if Jesus lives in you, and He does if you are a believer, then who could live the life Jesus wants you to live better than Jesus Himself? No one better at all! When we rest in Him He lives in and through us because He really is the LIFE of a believer. Praise God from whom all blessings flow. I thank Him for abundant life, meaning joy, peace, love, wisdom, truth, kindness, patience, self-control and so much more in the midst of any circumstance.

 

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Jesus Forgave the Unforgivable

Jan30

Reblogged from :

Jesus took what was unforgivable and made it forgivable. That’s grace. The Skit Guys on GodTube. Couldn’t have said it better myself. It’s always about Him and what He did. It’s never about us and what we can do to “get” God to forgive us for our sin. Grace is given freely as a gift. No matter how bad and wretched I feel about what I have done there is absolutely nothing I can do or say to make it right. But He can. He did. He forgave all my sin the day He died on that cross and because of that I have His …

My First Post On Grace Full Women

Apr8

My first post on Grace Full Women is very exciting for me. This ministry may touch one woman or it may touch the lives of hundreds of women but I believe I am writing this out of a calling from God. I dedicate this website to Him. It is for His glory and honor. May every word be pleasing to Him. May every word be written through the guidance of His Holy Spirit in me. Do not let one word be put on this page that does not come from You Lord. This is Yours do with it what You want, and please speak to me as we go along. Amen and Amen

Jesus Forgave the Unforgivable

Apr9

Jesus took what was unforgivable and made it forgivable. That’s grace.

The Skit Guys on GodTube. Couldn’t have said it better myself. It’s always about Him and what He did. It’s never about us and what we can do to “get” God to forgive us for our sin. Grace is given freely as a gift. No matter how bad and wretched I feel about what I have done there is absolutely nothing I can do or say to make it right. But He can. He did. He forgave all my sin the day He died on that cross and because of that I have His unbelievable, unending love and grace. Colossians 2:13-14

THANK GOD FOR HIS AMAZING GRACE THAT FORGIVES THE UNFORGIVABLE!

Grace Full Women Know The Spirit Encourages

Apr10

A Grace Full Woman knows the Spirit in her seeks to encourage not condemn.

When He speaks He’s reminding you of who you are in Christ. The Holy Spirit in me says, “Child you know very well that is not who you are. You are full of wisdom and truth not one of impulsive decisions that could be harmful to you.” He simply wants to guide me back to the truth of all that I am as a child of God and refresh my memory that I have been given everything I need to live a godly life.

2 Peter 1:3  His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness.

Love Wins Over Fear

Apr12

Let me encourage the Grace Full Woman today with some Scripture.

1 John 4:17-19  This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. 18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. 19 We love because he first loved us.

 What’s your level of fear? of worry? Looking at the fear in your life gives an honest picture of how much love, God’s love you allow to consume you. That love then flows freely out to others which sends Jesus forth in this world through you. Fear can in a way ”stop” up the flow , like a stopped up drain in the sink.

The Scripture says “In this world we are like Jesus”. Wow! We are his heart, hands and feet, that hug to others but fear stops that love flow.

Trust in God is the cure for fear. Trust. Verse 19 says, “We love because He first loved us”. Realize its His love in you that enables you to love Him and others. Its His love in you that has already overcome fear in you, trust and believe He has done it, you don’t have to fear it anymore.

Trusting the Father gives freedom. The grace full woman is free from fear because the love of God has filled her full and she knows it.

Grace Full Women Know Forgiving Themselves Is Not An Issue

Apr13

The Grace Full Woman has finally realized that she can’t forgive herself. Have you ever thought you’d hear such a thing? Certainly it’s necessary to forgive yourself before you can live in the fullness of God’s grace, right?

Well I’ve never found Scripture to back that up, have you? I’ve heard it from other women, teachers, read it in magazines, and watched it discussed on Oprah but I’ve not read it in the Bible.

However I have struggled with it. For years I could accept God’s forgiveness of my past sins but I felt I could never forgive myself. This was one of the biggest hurdles I had to overcome before I could move on to a grace full life. This belief held me back and though I prayed for help I could never let go of the fact that I did not deserve forgiveness, so I just couldn’t give it to myself.

In reality I don’t think I accepted that God had completely forgiven me. I think I believed I still owed Him something for the sins of the past and so I would go on making it up to Him the rest of my life. Part of that being never forgiving myself. The truth is God’s forgiveness is so complete that forgiving myself is not even an issue. Jesus Christ has already done it all for me. There is nothing left for me to forgive because my past has been wiped clean by the blood Jesus Christ.

Trying to forgive myself is like trying to give myself salvation. It can’t be done. Once I truly believed and accepted God’s complete forgiveness of my sins, past, present and future, Colossians 2:13-14 then I was free to know I didn’t have to forgive something that had already been  wiped clean from my life. Yes there were going to be left over consequences that I would experience but forgiving myself need not be one of those consequences.

To hold this over my own head when God had forgiven me was in a way prideful. Think about it, who was I to live out of the identity of a no good sinner full of shame and guilt when my Father in heaven had made me a new creation 2 Corinthians 5:17. He says I’m fully forgiven, a saint, righteous in His sight, His beloved, and more than a conqueror, who am I to say different? Who are you to say different about yourself?

Yes the grace full woman knows she’s forgiven and she knows it’s enough.

The Grace Full Woman Knows She Needs A Friend

Apr14

Note to my subscribers: Sorry you are receiving this twice but it did not post to Facebook the first time. Oops.

 

 

The Grace Full Woman knows she needs at least one other person in the Room of Grace with her. It may be a friend, or family member, her church family or small group but God has someone to join her in the grace walk. She may feel alone but as she prays God reveals others desiring to live grace fully.

The Room of Grace is a safe place to express yourself. It’s the place you go to take off all your masks and be yourself. As you walk through this door you know everyone accepts you even if you have visible sin and if you are hiding invisible sin you’re free to confess it. As a matter of fact the people there encourage you to confess it. Then as you release your ‘stuff’ more masks fall away.

This Room of Grace holds the key to your true identity. Jesus lives here. He’s always been here loving and forgiving, holding out His nail scarred hands to all who will take them. His light shines brightly in the room and yours does too because as His child you feel free with Him. You aren’t perfect and He knows it but His love is never affected by your imperfections. You never have to hide in shame from God or the people in the Room of Grace.

There is another room the Room of Good Intentions. In this room you are encouraged to wear a mask every day. If you even think of divulging your sin you know you will be judged by the people here and in your imagination you think God will condemn you too. So a “perfect” person submerges. Perfect on the outside but suffering of guilt, shame, loss of identity, pain,and hurt on the inside. You have to “pretend” a lot when you live in this room. You can never be who you were created to be because it’s all about performing for everyone. Performing for your husband, kids, church family, co-workers, friends, and all the time being someone you don’t really want to be.

 God has set before you at least one person to go with you into the Room of Grace. Maybe you’ve overlooked this person, or ignored help from this friend, but he/she has purposely be put in your life to show you its okay to take off your masks.

Maybe what you’re reading right now has struck a chord and you realize you are living in the Room of Good Intentions. Isn’t it time to be YOU, the new creation you are in Christ? I recommend reading Gracewalk by Steve McVey and TrueFaced by Thrall, Lynch and McNichol. But more than that read God’s love letter to you and discover your identity in Christ right from the source. This blog Grace Full Women will help you discover the truth about yourself as this is what I’ve been called to teach, so stop back by regularly.

Which room do you live in The Room of Grace or The Room of Good Intentions? If you aren’t able to live as YOU then you are in the wrong room.

This Grace Full Woman Went To GodSpa

Apr16

 

 

 

A Grace Full Woman knows she needs time away with the Father.

My friend Melinda and her team have a ministry, GodSpa . GodSpa is a time away from the outside world to be with other women and God. She lives in a large beautiful home surrounded by the forest and a lake. From the porch the view of nature is serene and calm and each room has a feeling of peacefulness.

I went because I felt God telling me I should. When I got there I was greeted by two other precious ladies… let me stop here and give a shout out to D and J, who were pulling up at the same time. We went in together and by the end I felt like I had known them for years. God just does stuff like that for you sometimes.

The next thing I know two other long time friends walked in L and T, what a surprise! What else was He going to do this day? Well Melinda blessed us by allowing us to share instead of doing all the talking herself.  Nice change to hear what God is doing or what others are asking Him to do.

I chose the room I wanted to be alone with God in. A room that reminded me of a mountain cabin complete with my very own bathroom awaited me. The Lord had already given me Scripture to start with and I journaled and prayed. Yep, God confirmed my vision for Grace Full Women and that I was on the right track. There was a caution sign held up though: I needed to slow down and let Him make things happen.

Well, I thought this is great! At least I’m on the right track. Then He revealed pride in me. Yep that’s right I can be prideful. I like approval from others and He just let me know that He was the one to satisfy me not others. But because my Father loves me so much He also reaffirmed me once again with these comforting words:

Habakkuk 3:17-19 Fig trees may no longer bloom, or vineyards produce grapes; olive trees may be fruitless, and harvest time a failure; sheep pens may be empty, and cattle stalls vacant– but I will still celebrate because the LORD God saves me. The LORD gives me strength He makes my feet as sure as those of a deer, and he helps me stand on the mountains.

Think about this if He makes my feet like those of a deer, what happens when obstacles get in my way, when a hurdle comes along this new path He’s got me on? A deer leaps over brush, rocks, hurdles etc. He, Himself will be my strength and make my feet  like a deer. Not me, if me then I will surely stumble and fall flat on my face. What amazing love. What an amazing promise.

Anyway we finished with the most wonderful lunch prepared by Beth, who has joined Melinda in GodSpa. This girl could out cook any chef in any restaurant here in Georgia I dare to say. Not kidding at all! What a beautiful set up on the table. I walked in and wanted to take a picture of the food before I ate it.

All You Grace Full Women make sure you take time to hear from God. It doesn’t have to be at GodSpa but if you live in Georgia you’d be crazy to miss this blessing.

   

A Message Worth Celebrating Everyday

Apr20

Sunday at our church a sermon was preached. It was one of those sermons that you sit and listen to and you love it but at the same time feel sad because your loved ones aren’t there to hear it. Been there? The sermon was about the precious cross of Christ. The pastor led us through the human condition to make the point that there is a need for a savior. Each person is a sinner with an evil heart and bound for eternal separation from God in hell. Sounded pretty horrible.

But when he got to the good news of Christ and how He came for all to be saved. He shared that Jesus died for every person in this world because He loved. Just because He loved. The Father God allowed His Son to die a horrible death on the cross for US out of pure love. John 3:16

Then the pastor began to describe the love of God and all we have in Christ after accepting His gift of salvation. This is the first time tears have been brought to my eyes during a sermon in years. This message is the message I so want to hear. This message was powerful and at the end I did not see how every unbeliever in the room could possibly stay seated and not run to take this gift offered. However, pastor made it so simple there may have been many who grabbed hold of Jesus right there where they stood.

I left Sunday wanting more of God and envisioning the cross more clearly than I have in a long while. Easter is upon me but I want the celebration to stay within my heart every hour of every day not just one day a year. How about you?

Is There A Stairway To Heaven?

Apr21

 

I was thinking about the song Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin yesterday. So I pulled up the words on Google and read back over them, they really didn’t make much sense to me except when he said, “and she’s buying a stairway to heaven.” It makes me think of the times in my life that I thought I could buy my way on up that stairway.

For years into my Christian life I followed the Savior pretty steady by my standards. I made my way up the stairway just fine without much looking back. I put one foot in front of the other and marched up each step by living according to the rules, having my children in church every Sunday, living as the submissive wife (well outwardly), and serving in the capacity anyone asked me to at the church. Personal time with the Lord was hard to come by but I was “doing” everything I was supposed to be doing. I just kept dragging myself up that stairway so I could hear the words “Well done good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23

Eventually there came that time when I could no longer climb those stairs and I stumbled and fell to the bottom. As I lay there crumpled up in a heap, I felt completely defeated. Now I would not hear those words I had so longed to hear, “Well done my good and faithful servant.” Where were all those “rules”, “obligations”, and “works” now that I needed them most? The truth is they were dead….they had always been dead, I just didn’t know it.

For some reason salvation for me included working to make God proud of me, working to keep up appearances for other Christians, and striving to serve and prove my love for God. But after lying in a pit of deep despair and sin for a while, I finally gave up and came to the end of myself.

Flash forward to a new day, today! What have I learned about that Stairway to Heaven? There’s not a stairway to heaven, there’s no drudgery, working, striving, pleasing to get to the top to hear those words I so wanted to hear. Amazingly enough the Father is pleased with me as I am because when I became His child He created me new, complete, whole, beautiful, and precious in His sight. God’s Holy Spirit lives in me giving me a “want to” to want to be like Jesus. I don’t have to work at it to make it happen. However, I do have to rest in Him and let it happen. Surrendering to be a Spirit-controlled woman is the best thing that I’ve ever done. It has freed me to be the woman of God I was created to be. I can take off the masks that I’ve been hiding behind for so many years and when I listen to the Spirit I naturally or should I say supernaturally do what He’s calling me to do. My love for Him is the motivation for serving Him now, and oh how I love Him because He first loved me. 1 John 4:9

Special Guest: Melinda Moffett from GodSpa

Apr22
Today’s guest post is written by my friend Melinda Moffett. She is owner and founder of GodSpa here in Henry County Georgia. You might recall my recent post about my visit, if not you can find out about my great day there This Grace Full Woman Went To GodSpa. Melinda is a grace full woman who seeks God in her every day life and sets a godly example for her children and other women to follow. I hope you enjoy her post today. Leave a hug in the way of a comment, we love it!
 
 
 
Have you ever been in a time in your life where things were not happening like you thought they should?  Did you look back and wonder, ”I thought I heard Jesus say…” or ”maybe I misunderstood His voice, what happened?!”.  Maybe you’re in that time right now.  You have been following close to Him but now you find yourself questioning where you are, how you got there, what happened or didn’t happen.  In fact, where is Jesus?!

Take a walk with me today as we listen in on a conversation between two disciples and Jesus on the road to Emmaus.  This particular conversation begins on the day of the resurrection.  Mary and her friends had just left the tomb and reported to the apostles that Jesus’ tomb was empty and that He had risen.  Two of the apostles were going to Emmaus.  They were talking about everything that had happened.  As they were discussing with each other ‘Jesus himself came up and walked along with them’. He asked them what they were talking about.  ‘They stood still, their faces downcast.’  One of them asked him, “Are you not from here?  Do you not know what has happened here?” (Isn’t that just like us sometimes?  “Where have You been?”  “Did You not know….?”) Jesus asked them “What happened?”  The two men begin to fill Jesus in on the past days activities.  ’About Jesus of Nazareth….He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people.  …they crucified him; but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel.  And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place…They went to the tomb early this morning but didn’t find his body…” Jesus began explaining ’what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. 

As they approached the village to which they were going,… they urged him strongly, “Stay with us.”  So he went in to stay with them.  When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them.  Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him,..’  (Luke 24:13-31)

Dear friend, if you are wondering where Jesus is or why things are not turning out like you thought they should may I just encourage you:  He is right there with you!  It is ‘when he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them.  THEN their eyes were opened and they recognized him.’  God’s Word is our bread and as we sit at the table with Jesus and allow Him to feed us and we give thanks for it, our eyes are opened to His activity in our lives.  His ways are always better than ours. 
 
‘Here I am!  I stand at the door and knock.  If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.’  Rev. 3:20
 
Are you feeding on Him and giving thanks?  He promises He will never leave you nor forsake you. 
 
 
Melinda Moffett                                                                                                                                            GodSpa: a retreat into His presence                                                                                                404-202-1397

www.Godspa631.com

Does the Sun Rise So I’ll Remember the Son Rose?

Apr24

I wonder if the sun rises to remind us of the Son rising. I know the sunrise began thousands of years before the Son rose but maybe God had it planned that way knowing we would need a daily reminder of the sacrifice His Son made for the world. Not that we think of Jesus when we see the sun rise, not that we think of His great sacrifice even daily. Do we?

Oh how I want this next year to be different for me. How I want to be desperate to remember every day how much my Father loves me, how much He gave up in order for me to be with Him. How is it possible that I could even let anything come before Him in my life?

Oh Father let Your Spirit make me desperate to be with You every day. Put an urgency in my spirit to know You more. Open my eyes to those daily reminders You set before me, those beautiful signs that You love me. Thank You for this day, the day set aside to remember Jesus. The one day of the year Christians come together to celebrate the death, burial and RESURRECTION of Your Son. But I don’t want it to just be one day for me, I want to wake up thinking about Your mercy, grace and love every day. If this is my mind-set how could I help but let You live in and through me so others can know Your love too. Praise You and may all glory, and honor be given to You Father.  In Jesus Precious Name, Amen

What about you, is Easter the only day the resurrection of Christ seems important to remember? Would you like things to change between you and the Father? Just ask and He’ll answer.

He Did Not Give You A Spirit Of Fear

Apr26

2 Timothy 1:7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control. (Amplified)

Good morning Grace Full Woman. Today I want to encourage you to walk in courage but not in your own courage for you would fail, but in God’s courage. Redundant huh? Sometimes redundancy gets the point across.

Is there something about today that has put fear within you? Do you have to face a situation that requires you be strong but you’re afraid you just aren’t strong enough to face it?

2 Timothy 1:7 is your promise from your God. He did not give you a spirit of fear, cringing, cowardice. Guess who sends that your way? Yes, your enemy, the one who wants to see you fail, who loves to see you run in fear from your calling.

Your Father in heaven has given you a spirit, remember the new spirit in you, of love, power,  calm, well-balance, self-discipline and self-control. This is who you are, the real you. Love, Power, Calm, Well-Balanced, Self-Disciplined, Self- Controlled. What can come your way today that you can’t handle when you are living as a Spirit-Controlled, Grace Full Woman? 

God has given you everything you need to do what you have to do, everything you need to fulfill your calling, now take your God-given courage and walk in it this day and do it. 

Grace Full Women trust the Lord even in fearful times.

If God Is Love, Would He Give You Cancer?

Apr28

He carries us through our trials. He protects and loves us.

1 John 4:16 And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.

God is love. Is this how you understand God? He has many characteristics but He is love personified. He gave His only Son for the world out of His love.

I’m reading a book entitled “The Misunderstood God”, by Darin Hufford. In the book he takes many of the misconceptions we have of God and puts them to rest with biblical truth. Hufford makes a suggestion that may help us better understand our God.

Take the verses 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 and replace the word love with God.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 God is patient, God is kind. God does not envy, God does not boast, God is not proud.  God does not dishonor others, God is not self-seeking, God is not easily angered, God keeps no record of wrongs. God does not delight in evil but God rejoices with the truth.  God always protects, God always trusts, God always hopes, God always perseveres.

Understand this is just an exercise to help us get a better grasp on how God loves not an attempt to change His Word. However, 1 John 4:16 does say “God is love” so we are just seeing Him for who He is here.

 When we are trying to decide what, who, where or why a circumstance, problem, pain, hurt etc. has come our way let’s weigh it up against 1 Cor. 13:4-7 before we decide it came from our heavenly Father. It seems He gets the blame for the most horrible  things that happen to people.

There is a teaching that goes like this “God gives us trials (problems) to teach us lessons, to show us He is the boss, or to bring Himself glory out of our pain and suffering.”

Let’s take a trial in my life. This particular trial hurt me terribly. But when I understand God is kind, it doesn’t make sense that He would purposely hurt me in this way or “make” someone else hurt me. He is not self-seeking, meaning He isn’t trying to get something for Himself out of my pain and hurt.

 Another example : If He isn’t self-seeking does He really want a person to have cancer, to suffer such horrible pain, so He can gain glory? That seems self-seeking. Did we ever see Jesus living a self-seeking life? I can’t recall not even one instance. He was humble, caring, loving and He said, “If you’ve seen me you have seen my Father.” John 14:9.

Some use Lazarus death as an example. We saw Jesus wait until Lazarus died before He went to see him so when He resurrected him the Father would get the glory. What we didn’t see was Jesus killing Lazarus with a disease and causing him pain and suffering for the glory of God. Disease happens because we live in a fallen world with a messed up environment full of satanic influence and fleshly desires. However, God can bring something good out of a bad situation just like He says He will do in Romans 8:28. 

So have I sparked any discussion? I hope so; I’m tired of talking to myself. I’ll get into more of 1 Corinthians 13 later in the week. There should be more good discussion.

I love all you Grace Full Women.

Should Jesus Be Your First Priority?

May2

Welcome to the first day of Grace Full Women Daily Devos.

Should Jesus Be Your 1st Priority?

Colossians 3:3-4 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

How many times have you heard or even said, ” Jesus must be number One in your life. Make a list of your priorities and if He’s not at the top you need to make some changes.”?

I have taught this numerous times and tried to do it myself. The truth is when we become children of God, new creations in Christ, we become one with Jesus. { And your life is now hidden with Christ in God.} You are no longer separate from Him, but He is your life.

Jesus is not just supposed to be at the top of your priority list right before your husband and children. He is your life, part of all aspects of your life. When you love on your husband and children, let Jesus do it through you. As you speak to others let Him say it through you. When you are serving, working on the job, or making decsions, trust Jesus to do it in and through you. You are no longer your own, you are one with Christ.

This may sound like you’ve been captured, or imprisoned, however it is anything but that. There is more freedom in allowing Jesus to be your life than there ever could be in trying to make Him some sort of priority and failing at it almost every day.

It’s important for you to be aware of your identity in Christ. One aspect of that is to realize He is your whole life and He can’t be dispersed neatly into different compartments of your life and left out of others.  There is great freedom in living in this truth.

Have you been spending time trying to make Jesus your 1st priority, or do you allow Him to live life in and through all your life.

What is Abundant Life?

May3

What Is Abundant Life?

John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

Abundant life is the American dream. Wealth, material goods, fame and power. However this is the life the thief can steal, killand destroy. It is not a life lived for eternity.

True abundant life is given to us by Jesus Christ. This life is lived in peace, joy, rest, love,  and following Him. It is not wrapped up in money and power. Sometimes wealth does come with the abundant life but it is gladly used however the Father leads.

My Christian life used to be so frustrating because I felt like a failure so many times. I set out with goals to pray for 30 minutes a day, read my Bible at least that long if not longer, witness to strangers, at which I failed miserably, and kick my bad habit one more time. It was a defeated life, not an abundant life because I just couldn’t do what I set out to do.

In reality what was happening was I had allowed the enemy to convince me that I had so much to do in order to make God happy with me. I struggled day in and day out and then I would give up for a while and live defeated. This led to feelings of guilt and shame because of the sin I let in my life and because I was too weak to keep on the godly path.

Examining the verse a little closer it reads, “I (Jesus) have come that they may have life, and have it more abundantly.”  Who has come to give abundant life? Julie? Well that’s the way I lived it out. It was as if I was trying to give myself a wonderful life and in doing so failed over and over again. It is not humanly possible.

Who came to give me and you abundant life? Jesus! He is the One who can do this in us. It’s His life in and through us that produces peace, joy, love, forgiveness, wisdom, discernment, etc. I can’t manifest any of that on my own.

What’s my part in all this? I must surrender to Him. Allow Jesus to live life through me. After all as we saw yesterday He is your life, not just a part of your life. Romans 12:1-2 tells us to “offer … well how about you look that one up on your own and see what it says.

Live life fully through Him. And if you haven’t subscribed please do and I will send the devos directly to your email. It’s easy and quick, just click the Subscribe button, fill in your email and your set.

How Do You Smell Today?

May4

How Do You Smell Today?

2 Corinthians 2:14-15 But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place.

For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing;

These are some of my favorite verses, well since I became a grace full woman or can I call myself a girl today?

So I’d just like to talk about verse 14. And God always, not sometimes, always leads us in triumph in Christ. I love the thought of this but I have to admit I don’t always feel like a victor. Do you? But if I stop and dissect this for a minute I understand that my new spirit given to me at salvation, doesn’t act on feelings and emotions, but my soul does, (body, soul and spirit). We’ll discuss this another day.  However God always leads me (the real me, my spirit) in triumph in Christ, Christ in me, living in and through me. Yes when I understand it this way I am always triumphant.

When I allow Christ to manifest Himself in me the sweet aroma of Jesus is there with me every place I am. Now that makes sense.

Verse 15 tells us we are the fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and those that are perishing (dying and losing eternal life in heaven). What do think that fragrance smells like? I imagine it is a pleasant fragrant fresh rose that draws you to its beauty just for a sniff, for those who are being saved.

For those who are perishing the fragrance of Christ is probably offensive more like a pot of collard greens cooking or sulphur. But there is hope for all people because the Lord wants all to come to Him and none to perish 2 Peter 3:9. He is waiting before He returns for His bride to give those that are offended by His fragrance and ours more time. He is a God of love and love is patient. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Just a thought for the day: How are you smelling today? Are you smelling like a rose or more like collard greens? Your fragrance could make all the difference.

God bless you and may you smell good today.

Hey friend if you want a laugh or some encouragement on life come on by my other blog Julie Moore On Life, a Georgia girl’s view on everything. If it toots your horn go ahead and subscribe.

GraceFull Woman Devo: Thurs. “Lesson From the Farmer”

May5

Yesterday at the doctor’s office Hound and I sat in the waiting room reading. An older gentleman wanting to talk continued to interrupt us as we read. he told us about having to get his gallbladder out, that he was a farmer and how hard it was to get his crops to grow this time of year. I have to admit it was a little aggravating. Then he said something that grabbed my attention. He asked Hound,”Did you know Jesus was not just a man?” Hound replied,” Yes, He’s not now.”  The man,”Yeah, He kept all His promises.” We shook our heads in agreement expecting something more, but that’s all he said.

We went back to reading and two more women came in and after a short time of getting to know them the old farmer asked  the same question and said the same thing about the promises Jesus never broke. This time he went further with it and Hound and I had a moment of enlightenment. We understood his point. He continued,” A man will always let you down and most the time break his promises but Jesus will never break one of His promises to you.”  We all shook our heads in agreement and I totally got what the old man meant by that.

For as many as are the promises of God, in Him they are yes; therefore also through Him is our Amen to the glory of God through us. 2 Corinthians 1:20

In my lifetime many men and women alike have broken promises to me, and I suppose there were times I did the same. My expectations of others have led to disappointment and disappointment led to bitterness or anger.

Until… God taught me that He is my expectation, my promise keeper, the lover of my heart and soul. Yes He has given me wonderful people in my life to bring help, comfort, conditional love, and support but He is my faithful Father that will never fail me.

When you and I can really take hold of this truth we can be released of so much anger, bitterness, resentment and disappointment because our expectations will be realistic, not over the top. People are people not God and we have limitations.

Should we have some expectations and trust in others? I believe there should be trust within a relationship. When I make a promise to you I should keep it but life happens, I get selfish, or sick or angry and I may fail to keep my promise. I have let you down and vicious cycle begins.

How can you help yourself through these situations?

Keep your expectations realistic. When a promise is broken hold the person accountable, let them know how you feel about it, mend the tear and try to go on with the understanding that this cannot be an ongoing thing. By taking these actions you can  prevent damage to the relationship.

But always know, always remember, let this be your hope when “a man” as the old farmer said, “doesn’t keep his promises”, great is His faithfulness!

The LORD’S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease,
         For His compassions never fail. 
   They are new every morning;
         Great is Your faithfulness. 
    ”The LORD is my portion,” says my soul,
         ”Therefore I have hope in Him.”
Lamentations 3:22-24

GFW May19: Identity Theft, Is The Enemy Stealing From You?

May9

Do you get your identity from others? It’s a thoughtful question isn’t it? Think about it. When someone says something critical, such as you can’t succeed at that, you are such a loser, you’ll never make anything of yourself, or you don’t deserve that promotion, when a lie comes out of another’s mouth about you what do you do? If you believe it you can begin to take on a false identity. You  can succeed, you are not a loser and you are already someone special and precious.

Your identity is found in a loving God who gave His Son for you. You are as valuable to Him as His own son Jesus. So valuable that He allowed Him to die in your place on a cross over 2000 years ago. Is this just for the believer? No, He gave His son because He loved the world. Each one in the WORLD is valuable to God. John 3:16 It’s when you believe and receive the gift He gives that your identity becomes one with Christ.

Your identity is wrapped up in the goodness of Christ not the bad of the world. You are whole, complete and full in your spirit. It may not feel like it, or look like it on the outside but it is the TRUTH.

 As believers we are to live out of the truth.

1- Do not let someone else define who you are.

2- Combat their lies with the truth. You are loved, special, precious, worthy.

3- You are allowed feel your feelings, even if someone else thinks you shouldn’t be feeling this way or that way.

4-Go ahead feel it, deal with it, know who you are in Christ, and move on to the next thing.

I read that in WWII while in the German concentration camps the Jewish people were forced to feel inferior to the Nazis. This was done by shaving every prisoner’s head, man, woman and child, dressing them all in the same prison uniforms or by leaving them naked and by branding each one with a number. The purpose of this was to make them all feel the same, to take away their individuality, and uniqueness. They were called by numbers not their names to give them even less value. This is the way our enemy works to give us a false identity.

.

 He wants us to feel inferior to others, nameless, never unique or special. What does this do to us? It keeps us ineffective in life, especially when it comes to following Jesus Christ.

So the next time the enemy tempts you to feel unworthy, ask these questions:

Is this truth?
What is the truth?
What will I do with this truth?

If you believe truth then walk in it and live out of your real identity not the identity someone else tries to give you.

GraceFull Women Fri. Devo: Guest Post by Amy Rouse

May6

Welcome my special guest poster today Amy Rouse. She has two blogs American Christian, which gives a great perspective on the Christian culture here and often makes me examine my heart. Collect Yourself is her personal blog about her life and informative topics, many of which speak to women, so you’ll want to check it out. Amy has become my best blogging friend, how that happens over the internet, I don’t know, just did. You’ll find her intelligent, transparent, straight up, personal and loaded with God’s Word. Check out her blogs and enjoy her post today.

A Long Distance In The Same Direction

Friedrich Nietzsche wrote, “The essential thing ‘in heaven and earth’ is. . . that there should be a long obedience in the same direction; there thereby results, and has always resulted in the long run, something which has made life worth living.” I love the picture these words paint in my mind: A long and well-marked trail through God’s beautiful architecture. If I follow this path I will, somewhere up in the unforeseen distance, reach my destiny.

But that’s rarely how we experience the Christian journey, is it? We start out refreshed, renewed, determined, energized and committed to walk for however long it takes. But then we find it’s bumpy and messy and sometimes confusing. It’s dry and arid and waterless in spots, or the rain just never stops and we feel we’re drowning. And yes, sometimes, for even extended times, the walk is pleasant and uneventful. That, too, is challenging, maybe even the scariest: Life is good, why rely on God?

For many, many years I’ve stayed on the trail. But sometimes I’ve flat out quit walking. Or took off through the forest. I am a Prodigal Daughter, three times over. This is something I am very much ashamed of. (And here I am airing my dirty laundry on Julie’s blog!) But I think I can now look back and see three specific reasons why I messed up and quit following God, and I can find life lessons in them:

1. I wanted something other than God. I think this usually means wanting something God doesn’t want us to have. He knows us better than we do, BUT. WE. WANT. IT. NOW! My first departure from following Christ was to instead follow peers in high school. (Some were my long-time church friends who stopped following as well.) I wanted their approval and, as an unpopular student, that draw was irresistible. I desired the world more than I desired God.

2. I didn’t want something God wanted for me. In my early 20’s I was serving God in an unusual place. There were expectations and “rules” for conduct that were nearly stifling. This time I left because I wanted freedom from what I was afraid God would ‘make’ me do. I was afraid my obedience would make me miserable. Sounds crazy now, but this is much like the sacrificial ram jumping off the fire. Sure, we don’t want to stay in the hard places when God is refining us, but unless we learn the lesson, it’s waiting for us in our future still. I didn’t trust that God wanted only His best for me.

3. I didn’t pay attention to the things needing attention. The third and last time I stopped following was largely due to just getting lazy. I got apathetic about spiritual disciplines like reading God’s word and praying. It started slowly at first, little lapses. I thought, “I’ll catch up tomorrow.” I was on staff and in leadership at my church and got to the point where I thought I had got it all together. I became spiritually prideful. (“If you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!”) There were other factors, but regardless, soon fellowship became a ‘chore’ and selfish desires took over. The less I paid attention to my spiritual health, the more I was drawn to a worldly lifestyle. Before I knew it I wasn’t going to church any longer and you couldn’t much tell the difference between me and the next worldly girl. When you stop swimming upstream you start getting dragged downstream. I stopped following hard after God.

I am so thankful for stories in God’s word about folk who mess up (their dirty laundry not on someone’s blog but in the Bible for cryin’ out loud!) but they still go on to do great things or are called out for special recognition, recorded for all time. You know the ones: Peter who cursed and denied Jesus but Jesus called him the rock on which He’d build the church; And David, called “a man after God’s own heart,” of course we know he was an adulterer, a murderer, and a lousy dad. And finally the “real” prodigal son, who took his inheritance, squandered it, ended up eating with the pigs, then returned home hoping he could get a job as a family slave, but was instead redeemed by his dad.

I believe prodigal situations stem from what John talks about in 1 John 2:16: “For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world.” Pride is a killer. I pray I will always recognize this and my obedience to the One Who loves me more than I could ever imagine will be very long (never-ending) and very much in the same direction (never-bending).

I hope you have not experienced <em>prodigalness</em>, but if you have, or are, there is hope, healing and a fresh start. Or three. (Or “seventy-times-seven”!) I’m proof. (Hey, while you’re in the blog-reading-mode, check out Julie’s blog on Grace Full Women about forgiving yourself. It’s important.)

GFW Devo:A Simple Prayer

May10

Father,

Today I ask that you give me clarity of mind so I can hear You. Sometimes I feel like I’m in a fog and I get so distracted in my own little world that it seems I can’t hear You, feel You.

Let today be different. I don’t want to miss a thing You have for me. My prayer earlier this morning as it is almost every day was that Jesus live in and through me in a powerful way. If You do that You will be in everything I do and say and think. That’s the way I like it. Left on my own, well You know how that turns out.

I’m praising You today because You keep Your promises. Father You are faithful and true to me, and I cannot fathom why… other than the truth that You love me and You are God. I praise You because You are the only lover of my whole self, all of me, no matter how I act, think, feel, or what I say.

 There is none like You.  What’s amazing is You made me and there is none like me! Praising and thanking You Father for my life, family, home, health, church, food, dogs…………..

In the precious name of Jesus, Amen

Glorify the LORD with me;
   let us exalt his name together. Psalm 34:3

GFW Devo. Wed:I Never Want To Be Satisfied

May11

 

My English Bulldog Lola thinks about three things all day and night, when she’s not sleeping, food, food, and food. It seems she can never be satisfied. Her belly cannot be filled. No matter what I am eating she will eat it too. I know I am bad for giving her table food but have you seen her face? She’ll eat lettuce, pickles, tomatoes, onions, toast, ice, and dirt. Of course Lola loves all kinds of meat like chicken, steak, pork chops, hamburgers, and especially hotdogs. (The more I write the more I realize I have got to put this dog on a diet.)

The point is she is always hungry when she’s awake. I began comparing this to my own spiritual life, and wondered what if…. What if I was always hungry for God’s Word? What if I couldn’t get enough of His presence? What if I could not be satisfied with mediocrity? What if I were bursting at the seams with the power of the Holy Spirit?

If the what ifs were true of me then wouldn’t you see Jesus in me all the time? Wouldn’t He be glorified in everything I say and do? Isn’t this the place every believer wants and needs to be? Wouldn’t I have three things on my mind day and night, Jesus, Jesus and Jesus?

I want to be desperate for Jesus, for His fullness, sooo hungry for His presence in my life…. The thing is that this is the woman I really am, who God made me to be. So if I’m not hungry it’s because I’m getting fed by someone or something other than Jesus. The question is: Are you hungry?

Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. John 6:35

Do You Feel Imprisoned?

May12

 

She paced the floor of the small space of the prison cell. Back and forth, wringing her hands, her heart felt as though it would come right out of her chest. It seemed more like a dream than reality. Would they really set her free today?

Lina had been incarcerated for two years on drug charges. The time she had spent behind these bars were hard, so hard in fact there were some days she didn’t want to live. Lina wasn’t like some of the women who came in claiming their ground and making a name for themselves right away, she was the one who tried to avoid them all just to stay alive.

Many nights Lina lay in her bottom bunk thinking about freedom. Remembering life with her kids in their small rental home. At the time it didn’t seem like much but oh what she wouldn’t give to be back in her own full size bed with Molly and Jake on each side of her.  These bars that held her prisoner, that held her captive gave her the feeling of being stuck in a type of hell.

Lina’s story can be related to our own story before we find freedom in Christ. We are held captive by sin and death actually sentenced to hell. But when FREEDOM comes He breaks open those prison cell doors and we are free to walk right out living a life of love, no longer chained to the sin that destroys our lives.

Unfortunately many of us don’t walk out of the prison cell doors, we continue to sit on the bunk and live in our old hell. Although we are free to go and live an abundant life as Jesus tells us in John 10:10 some of us continue in defeat. We are more than conquerors, saints  not sinners, righteous no longer unrighteous but we don’t have a clue.

Life as a Captive Christian is miserable. When Jesus set us free, He set us free from the chains of any sin that tries to hold us. He gives us the power to escape temptation, His Holy Spirit gives us everything we need to live a godly life. ( References below)

As Lina walked out of  prison a free woman that afternoon she realized a new life was about to begin as she ran into the arms of her two children.

As you walk out of the prison you have already been freed from realize you have a new life waiting so run into the arms of the Father and live abundantly in Him.

Galatians 5:1 It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.

Romans 1:7, Galatians 5:1, 1 Corinthians 10:13, 2 Peter 1:3

Don’t forget to check out Julie Moore On Life for some humor, life, and smorgasbord of other things.

Devotional Wed./ I Don’t Want To Hurt God Anymore

May18

 

I taught a class today and we discussed how and why to make right choices. I asked the question, “What helps us make the right choice?” Various answers were given such as prayer, Bible study, knowing God’s Word, and relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance. Then one of the women spoke in a small voice,” I don’t want to hurt God anymore.” I’ll never forget that childlike, sincere answer to that question. I’ll always remember the way she sat there looking down at the table while she made a simple but profound statement. A statement that warmed my heart and spirit. I couldn’t help but smile and I knew just what she meant because I felt that way too. This sweet soul just knew how to put it into words.

While the rest of us had all the “grown-up” answers, answers that were true nonetheless, she had the one answer that made the most sense to me. Make the right choice because we love Jesus. A love that is rooted in the love He first gave to us. Make the right choice because we don’t want to hurt Him anymore. Simple but perfect and true.

Devotional: You Love Me Anyway

May20

I heard this song again today on the radio. All of it is great but these words written below broke my heart. After it was over I began to think about the thorn I had placed in His crown, the nail I had put in His wrist. And my Father just gave some much needed reassurance, a hug you might say, “I love you anyway.” His amazing grace has replaced that thorn and nail with forgiveness. Thank You Father for Jesus.

That my glory may sing your praise and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever! Psalm 30:12

He Loves Me Anyway by Sidewalk Prophets (not the entire song)

I am the thorn in Your crown
But You love me anyway
I am the sweat from Your brow
But You love me anyway
I am the nail in Your wrist
But You love me anyway
I am Judas’ kiss
But You love me anyway

See now, I am the man that called out from the crowd
For Your blood to be spilled on this earth shaking ground
Yes then, I turned away with this smile on my face
With this sin in my heart tried to bury Your grace
And then alone in the night, I still called out for You
So ashamed of my life, my life, my life

But You love me anyway
Oh, God… how you love me

You love me anyway
It’s like nothing in life that I’ve ever known
You love me anyway
Oh Lord, how You love me

You love me, You love me
You love me, You love me
How You love me
How You love me
How You love me

Need a Daily Devo.? He Sees The Real You and Me

May25

He Sees The Real Me and You

El Roi “The God Who Sees Me”. That’s the name Hagar gave God.

She was banished to the wilderness by Sarai for being obedient to have a baby with Abram and this is the thanks she got. She and her baby were made to leave their home. As they sat alone near a spring of water the Bible says in Genesis 16 ”the Angel of the Lord found her.” He must have been looking for the lost, hurt one to have found her. I can hardly believe He just stumbled upon Hagar while taking a stroll one day.

He found her right where she was. Damaged emotionally, hurt physically and mentally, feeling discarded, betrayed. I mean she was made to marry her  mistress’s husband and then sleep with him, have his child then thrown away like garbage and Abram did nothing to protect her.

But then there was El Roi The God who sees me. He saw what happened, he saw what was happening on the inside of her, her heart, her downcast spirit, her low self-esteem. He saw the evil thoughts she had of Sarai and Abram but he came to find her, to save her.

Hagar followed God’s guidance and her son Ishmael grew up to be strong and became a nation of people. Now the nation became trouble to many but God saw to it that she and Ishmael did not die that day in the wilderness. His plan unfolded as He wanted it to.

El Roi The God Who Sees Me sees you to. He sees the real you, the inside you, the hurt you, the worried you, questioning you, low self-esteem you, the prideful you, the beautiful you, the grouchy you and part of you that longs to be closer but can’t seem to get there.

Just as He found Hagar,  God has found you right where you are. As you are reading this He sees you, He’s with you, He loves you more than you can comprehend, He is holding your precious heart and comforting you, guiding you and whispering sweet somethings in your spirit.

El Roi is your God and you are His child. Does that help start your day off with a little hope?

When God Says “What If…”

May29

 

He spoke to my heart and said, "What if I said you are beautiful?"

I’m reading a book now called TrueFaced by Bill Thrall, Bruce McNicol, and John Lynch. Chapter 2 discusses The Room of Good Intentions and The Room of Grace. In the Room of Good Intentions there is a lot of striving and working to please God and others. Believers are trying to be what they are not, and hiding behind masks. Life is miserable here because these people can’t be themselves. They believe they aren’t accepted unless a certain standard of perfection is met.

The Room of Grace however is the place believers live out of who they are, who God says they are. They believe they are loved, valued and have purpose because Christ has given them new life.

The authors came up with a scenario in which the believers in The Room of Good Intention could know God’s thoughts. So they write a few pages about things God would say to them. I’m going to quote from the book now.

God says,” What if I tell them who they are? What if I take away any element of fear in condemnation, judgement and rejection? What if I tell them I love them, will always love them? That I love them right now no matter what they have done, as much as I love my only Son? That there’s nothing they could do to make my love go away?

What if I tell them there are no lists? What if I tell them I don’t keep a log of past offenses, of how little they pray, of how often they’ve let me down, made promises they don’t keep? What if I tell them they are righteous by my righteousness right now? What if I tell them they can stop beating themselves up? That they can stop being so formal, stiff and jumpy around me? What if I tell them I’m crazy about them?”

I find this absolutely awesome! This makes God so real and personal and the great thing is I believe He really does say these things to me, to us, all the time. Its His way of instilling security in us, security in our relationship with Him. You know, if we would just listen we could hear God’s whisper, He does speak. It may sound crazy that I would suggest we can actually hear Him speak but we as believers have His Spirit inside us and I believe that’s how we hear. The Spirit may speak through the Bible, a pastor, music, a teacher, friend, family member, a book, the options are limitless.

What if God says something to you while you’re striving, working, trying to please Him and others? You might just miss the greatest message of your new believing life. I’ve missed it many times and now that I know He wants to talk to me I listen a little closer.

It may be you haven’t started a believer’s life yet, but want to know this God who has so much love for you. Yes He loves you as much as He loves His only Son too. I encourage you to just ask Him to let you see His love, tell Him you are looking for Him. He will show Himself in one way or another.

Are You Afraid Of Heaven?

Jun2

A storm cloud up above my house.

I’m in California this week and loving every minute. Except for those minutes I miss being at home. The old saying is true, “there’s no place like home.”

Today I’m reposting one of my favorite’s about heaven. Hope you’ll look forward to going “home” too after reading it.

I used to be afraid of going to heaven. But now that it holds so much treasure for me I’m not as afraid as before. In fact I kind of look forward to going because some of the people I love most are there. It has changed my perspective of heaven, from a far away foreign place to a sweet home place. My grandparents, mother-in-law, daddy, mama and a miscarried baby are all in heaven.

I envision this home place to be a large gray wooden and stone house with a big rocking chair front porch. Everyone is sitting outside visiting and drinking sweet iced tea except my 2 grandmothers and my mother-in-law Marie. They are inside cooking up a big meal of fried chicken, cornbread, mashed potatoes, fresh green beans and a variety of desserts. My daddy is reading the newspaper, glasses pulled down low on his nose and mama and I sit close by talking about every day things. Paw-paw is sitting back rocking in the rocking chair and Papa is holding my beautiful baby boy.

The smell of the food drifts out of the open windows and our noses perk up. We all make our way to a large wooden table made for a large family. The table is loaded with all sorts of wonderful foods, candles lit in the middle and the best china and silverware. As I look around I feel a sense of contentment, fulfillment, and joy like never before. At the head of the table sits my most beautiful, loving Savior Jesus Christ. He is there with us in the home place, He made the home place, He is the reason there is a home place.

I realize my vision of heaven is not quite like the golden streets, and mansions described in the Bible but for me that gray home, which is my grandparent’s home place, is as close to a mansion as I can imagine.

I do get homesick for my permanent home sometimes now and then because I miss my loved ones so. But I thank God I have the hope of knowing I will see them again. Do you get homesicK? How do you envision heaven?

Kayla’s New Life

Jun4

Kayla went into the dressing room with four dresses to try on. She thought to herself, “Why do I even bother?” The realization of the weight gain had hit her square in the face that morning, as her husband spouted off another rude comment about how big she was getting. He didn’t have to remind her, she looked in the mirror everyday.

She needed a dress for the women’s tea at church. The dresses in her closet were much too tight, out of date, or too casual. Three stores and ten dresses later Kayla decided on the black skirt and jacket with which she would wear her teal blouse. Black was supposed to be slimming, she had a lot of black in her wardrobe.

At the event Kayla sat with two friends from her women’s Bible study. The speaker’s presentation that night was entitled “A Woman’s Identity in Christ”. Kayla had been a believer for many years but could not grasp all that God’s grace entailed. She left the tea realizing she was missing something inside, in her relationship with Christ. She began to think about the way she viewed herself also and it wasn’t the same way God saw her. She was a failure at most things she tried especially this weight loss thing. However God valued and treasured Kayla more than she would ever comprehend and there was nothing she could do to change that!

For months Kayla studied and devoured God’s Word to find out more about the treasures His grace had given her, especially her identity in Christ. She became a confident woman in Christ. When her husband made those snide comments Kayla refused to allow it to bring her down because she knew her God loved her, created her, did not condemn. It was His love for her that changed the way she saw herself. She began to believe she could become healthy from the inside out. Her diet changed, she added exercise and she began counseling.

Years of shame and guilt had ripped her self-esteem to shreds, and her husband and family gave little support. But then a light bulb lit in Kayla and she understood that the Jesus inside her had destroyed any dirty, old past she ever had. It just took someone helping to fan the flame of truth. The light was inside Kayla from the moment she knew Him but no one told her the whole truth of the gospel. She had no idea all that our God gives us when we come to Him.

Kayla and her husband are now living a contented life together. He has learned to respect and love her for who she is and who she is becoming. She accepts him for him and continues to find her own identity and calling in Christ Jesus. Life is not perfect for if it were she would be in heaven but life is good and Kayla is learning what it means to live abundantly.

Can I Lose My Salvation?

Jun9

The coast in California

A question has arisen several times lately so I have decided it’s time to discuss it.
Question: Can I lose my salvation?
Answer: A true believer, meaning someone who is one with Christ, can not lose salvation.

Establishing that one is a true believer is important to understand because if not then of course loss of salvation does not apply one way or the other because it has not been obtained yet. These Scripture verses helped me nail down my own salvation: The whole book of 1 John is pretty clear about who is a believer and who is not and John 10 gives a good picture of Jesus as Shepherd and believers as His sheep.

Understand in 1 John when he speaks of “the one who believes does not continue to sin” he means sinning as a way of life, meaning this is the pattern. Of course we cannot judge the motives of another’s heart and we do not know why someone may be sucked in by addictions and such, so read these verses in examination of your own salvation. Search your own heart and motives.

Proof from Scripture that we cannot lose our salvation: 1 John 5:18-20, John 10:25-30. Both of these passages are clear about what true salvation is and that we are secure in salvation once we receive it.

Romans 8:38-39 promises us that nothing can cause God to stop loving us once we are His children. Nothing!

Some say if we hold to the doctrine of eternal security we will be prone to “have a license to sin.” However I disagree with this belief because it is obvious to me that anyone who lives under the belief that God’s grace and salvation is given as a gift and is permanent, knows that we live for Him out of our love for Him. We love because He first loved us. The understanding of God’s great love for me draws me  into an intimate, close relationship of trust with Him. Out of this relationship flows a love that causes me to WANT to live for God, not sin because I can. It is exactly the opposite of what the followers of the doctrine that one can lose salvation describes it to be. Even the Apostle Paul had something to say about this in Romans 6:2-6. Read it.

I hope this has answered some of your questions. Please feel free to post comments or ask questions. Email me anytime at julieemoore@bellsouth.net.

What Do Women Want?

Jun15

 

Me and my friends in the mountains.

 

How would I know? Well I’m a woman. I have lots of friends who talk. I’m a blogger who communicates with other women bloggers. I’ve ministered to women in and out of Christian circles for about 17 years. Communicating with women and trying to give them what they want and need is what I do.

 

So what have I found out?

 

Women want other women to be real and transparent.

 

We want to know we are not alone in this messed up world. We want someone to tell us we’re not crazy and even if we are, tell us its okay. We are desperate for someone to love and accept us in our fragile, harried, not so cute, sometimes angry, misunderstood state of mind. And yes, even Christian women have their days when they need another woman to just listen and say, “I
understand, I’ve been there, and I’ll help however I can.”

 

The word transparent is described by Webster as “free from pretense or deceit, sheer enough to be
seen through, readily understood, and characterized by visibility and accessibility.” This probably brings a bit of fear to some of you, to be open and share your real life with others. But isn’t this what you want from other women? And deep down, sometimes, don’t you really just want to be honest about what’s going on in your life?

 

Jesus came to give us freedom from sin and death. He came to
give life, not only in heaven, but abundant life here. Abundant, real life
cannot be found behind bars in the Prison of Pretense. Pretending to be someone or something we are not only leads to captivity. Once we’ve started the story, we have to work to keep it up. Have
you ever tried to keep an imperfect family looking perfect all the time? Virtually impossible!

 

Part of my own story with this began when I started teaching women’s Bible studies. I had been teaching about 4 years and my class was growing, but I was dying from exhaustion. My thinking went like this, “A Sunday School teacher cannot let her students know she has problems because she has to set an example. They need to look up to her. If she struggles with sin she can’t admit it because she’s supposed to be above that.” It was very hard to continue the charade of the perfect life while I tried to be the savior to all the women in my class. This caused me to “burnout” because I just couldn’t do it all and there was no one telling me any different. I gave up all ministries
for 2 years and slowly and prayerfully stepped back in as the Lord led.

 

But I am telling you different now. Be transparent with other women. I’m not saying you have to
share every deep, dark secret you have, but when the Spirit of God leads you to give testimony as to what you’ve been through or are going through, just do it. Do it for you, do it for them but mostly do it for Him.

 

Now days as I minister to women from all walks of life in church and the community I am transparent with them. If I’m going to relate to and share Christ with these precious ones they need to know there’s a real woman inside me, with real life issues, letting a real Jesus love her. Then perhaps they will let me share how much my Jesus loves them. And maybe they’ll believe me. Hey isn’t that what it’s all about anyway?

Scripture references: Galatians 5:1, Galatians 6:2, John
10:10, Luke 12:12, John 15:26-27

 

Go Tell It Down The Mountain

Jun22
From my trip to California. Taken from up on a mountain.

So who takes Jesus to them? I didn’t. When I look at all these homes and businesses I wonder who lives there. The land is so dry, what if it caught fire again? What would happen if some died? Where would they end up in eternity? Do you ever think about those things?

I know we as individuals can only reach just so many but do we set out every day ready for those opportunities God sets before us? My challenge is for each one of us to begin tomorrow praying to recognize those opportunities and then for the Holy Spirit to speak for us when the time comes.
It may only be a “hello, how are you?” with a smile, it may be a hug, it may be I love you, maybe a card, phone call or email. And yes it might just be telling someone how much Jesus loves them and what He did to prove that love. You never know what God will do with an open heart that’s willing to hear, and follow.
Are you ready to reach your world?

 

 

 

 

 

Does God Expect Me To Be Perfect?

Jun24

Grace comes in many shapes, sizes,colors, times, places, and people. God’s grace fills the room with compassion for the one nobody else will talk to. His grace walks through the door straight over to the woman who feels judged by other women in the church. His grace will never shun the one everybody turns away from with a quick glance or two. His grace accepts people right where they are without expecting them to change before He will befriend them. His grace holds out His hand and brings the lonely, depressed, and hurting to the seat next to Him.

If I in His grace don’t give the world His love how will they ever know such a love as His? Many have such a huge misunderstanding of Him because of the judgement Christians lay on them. Jesus was living grace in action, read the book of John and see the people He sought to be with. It was the “every man”, “every woman”. It wasn’t the self-righteous Pharisees He called hypocrites, those who judged others by their own expectations.

He never expected us to be perfect and we should not expect perfection of ourselves or each other. Does this mean we need to set our standards low? No. But it does mean that because we are not perfect no matter how high we try to set the standard it will eventually fail. It is Christ who will set the standard as He works in and through us. It means we need Him and each other, and we need encouragement from one another to move on in this world. His grace is the power within us that enables us to love one another, to love Him, and to follow Him.

It is the one thing I have as a grace full woman that empowers me to reach out and go for that dream God Himself has placed in my heart. It is His grace that equips me to live for Jesus, for without it I would be living for myself. Still I have to admit there are days, that I depend on myself instead of His grace within me. Those days are defeated, unfruitful, blah days.

Thank goodness I am crucified with Christ therefore I no longer live but it is Christ who lives within me. Galatians 2:20. This is grace brought to life in me. This is the reason I can live as a Grace Full Woman.

 

FYI: Next week begins a 3 week series called Monday Moments with my friend Dee Gredler. I asked her to explain in layman’s terms Old and New Covenant. Knowing the difference is imperative for the Grace Full Woman.

Older, Old, and New Covenant

Jun27

My friend Dee Gredler has a Masters in Divinity and is the Christian Education and Small Groups Leader at Anchor Community Church. She is the friend I call when I have a biblical question and this is one of the subjects she teaches on quite regularly. I’m excited and I hope you are too. God’s Word is full of treasure and today we have a teacher that will help us dig out a few more precious gems.

I had to smile when she asked the question.  “What’s this with an old and a new part of the Bible?”  It sounded so much like the questions I asked after I first began to follow Jesus.  I also pronounced the “p” in Psalms and thought the italicized words were meant to be emphasized (although that didn’t make any sense when I tried it).
Such a big book, so old, so many questions!  But the question she asked really goes to the heart of the matter when it comes to understanding the overall work of God as He lays it out in the Bible.

Throughout history God has used the concept of covenant to define His relationship with people.  Covenant is a word that doesn’t have much meaning for us today.  We know what homeowner covenants are but we don’t really have a clue as to what a covenant is as it’s understood in the Bible. There are echoes of covenant around today even though we don’t realize that they have anything to do with covenants.
You might have heard of blood brothers (or blood sisters).  Two people make a cut in their finger or hand until it bleeds and then they rub the cuts together so that the blood mingles.  The idea is that now each person has some of the other person’s blood in him which now makes them one.  And they will always be one.  After all, there’s no way to remove the other person’s blood after it’s been mixed with yours.   Or how about the bride and groom feeding each other the wedding cake after the
wedding?  This goes back to the practice of a covenant meal when the two people would kill an animal, cook it and then feed it to one another.  The idea was
that they were giving each other their body to “eat” and so were forever united
as one.  If you get the idea that covenants were serious, binding and irrevocable then you’ve got the right idea.

There are many instances of covenants in the Bible but there are three major ones that God invited people to enter into with Him.  These three covenants
are the Abrahamic covenant (made between God and Abraham), the Old Covenant or
the Law (made between God and the nation of Israel) and the New Covenant (made
between God and whoever chooses to enter into it by faith in Jesus Christ as
their substitute for sin).

It was through the Abrahamic covenant that God began building the nation of Israel.  All covenants include promises and God made three basic promises to Abraham in the Abrahamic covenant.  The first was that the land now known as Israel would belong to Abraham and his descendants forever.  God also promised that Abraham’s descendants would be more numerous than the stars in the sky.  Finally, there was the promise of a special descendant, Jesus Christ, through whom all the world would be blessed.  And while there were ways that some of Abraham’s descendants could be cut off from the promises of the covenant, there would always be vast numbers who were included as heirs of these promises.  Knowing about this covenant is foundational to understanding the story of God bringing people back to Himself even though they had rejected Him.  While at this point you might be thinking, “So what?” it is definitely important that we understand about these three covenants.
We’ll look at the other two in the next few weeks.

 

Can My Good Behavior Change My Heart?

Oct4

Does behavior modification guarantee heart transformation? From my experience I’d say no. After years of trying to make behavior changes there might have been some heart change but it certainly didn’t transpire from behavior.

In reading Matthew 5 The Sermon on the Mount Jesus tells so many things to change outwardly but mostly inwardly. The changes He tells us to make seem almost impossible. Go back and read it if you haven’t lately. When I read this passage, for many years I thought, “There’s no
way I can actually do this.” However when I understood what His point was, “No
you can’t change your behavior or your thoughts on your own. You need a Savior
and that Savior has to become your life” it made much more sense.

Now read John 15:5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”  So is it behavior that changes us or a heart transformation? It’s Christ in us. We can’t do it without Him. In Matthew 5
Jesus needed us to see that we could never make those changes unless we did it with Him.

Ezekiel 36:26-27 “And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I
will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.  And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.” This passage speaks of the New Covenant that God has made with people through Jesus Christ. This heart and spirit change in us is what enables us to obey and follow Him. Once again it is a
heart transformation or shall we say transplant that changes us. This new
heart and spirit enables us to make the behavioral changes Jesus spoke of in Matthew 5.

For so many years I tried and tried to change my behavior to please God and others. I was
quite successful at appearing as if I had changed, but it was hard to keep up those appearances. Working, striving and working some more. But when I learned the secret of living for Christ, hallelujah! freedom came into my life at last. With a new heart and spirit given to me by my wonderful, great God I finally got what Scripture meant when it spoke of the abundant life in John 10:10. Christ living in and through me!

There’s a picture of a sunrise with this post. Doesn’t it look like a relaxing, restful place to be? Sitting on the beach, watching the sun rise, enjoying God’s beauty, represents freedom in Christ to me. My sister-in-law took this while she and her husband were camping on the coast of California. Imagine waking up to this.

The answer to the question? It’s heart transformation that changes behavior, not the other
way around.

 

Older, Old and New- Part 2

Jul4

Last week my friend and mentor of many years Dee Gredler wrote the first of 3 post about the difference in Old and New Covenants. I’m excited to have her back today with another Monday Moment. Join Dee in Bible study this morning and dig for more treasure from God’s Word.

Last time we saw that the
first of the three main covenants that God made with mankind was the Abrahamic
covenant.  Abraham had two sons, Ishmael
and Isaac, but God made it clear that the covenant promises would only apply to
Isaac’s descendants.  Isaac also had two
sons, Esau and Jacob, but again God chose only Jacob’s descendants as
inheritors of the covenant promises.  (Why
do it this way?  I have to admit that I
don’t have any idea.  All I can say is
that since God was the one who originated the covenant and made the promises  He could choose whoever He wanted to to become a covenant partner with Him.)  Jacob had twelve sons and all of them became partners in the covenant.  It was from
these twelve sons that the twelve tribes of Israel came into being.  These tribes became known as the nation of Israel.

When God made the covenant with Abraham He told him that there would come a time when his descendants would become slaves in Egypt for 400 years.
This is exactly what happened.  At the end of the 400 years God sent a man named Moses to lead the Israelites, now numbering in the millions, out of Egypt and into the land that He had promised to Abraham.  It was while they were on the
way to that Promised Land that God invited the nation as a whole to enter into
a second covenant with Him.  They agreed and this covenant became known as the Old Covenant or the Law.  The most familiar part of this covenant is
known as the Ten Commandments.

The Old Covenant was a different kind of covenant than the Abrahamic covenant.  There was nothing that Abraham’s descendants could do to give God reason to not keep the wonderful promises He had made.  God had also described it as an everlasting covenant so that there wasn’t, and isn’t, anything that could bring it to an
end.  It is an unconditional, everlasting covenant.  The Law was different.  The nation entered into this covenant by promising to keep all the commandments that God had given.  God promised that as long as they kept the commandments He would bless them in very specific ways which He laid out.  But He also promised that He would bring specific curses on them if they failed to obey the commandments.  And at no point did He say anything about this covenant being everlasting.

This all brings up some reasonable questions.  What was the point of this second covenant?  And did it nullify the first covenant?  Let’s answer
the last question first.  The Old Covenant did not nullify the Abrahamic covenant.
When God promises something you can be sure that He won’t break His promise.  And since the covenant is unconditional we can be sure the promises are still in effect.

Then what was the reason for the Old Covenant?  God wanted this nation
that was made up largely of Abraham’s descendants to show the rest of the world
who God is.  As they lived according to the commands that He gave them the world would see a vast difference in their own behavior and how the people of Israel treated each other.  And as God blessed them for their obedience
the other nations would be drawn to God and accept Him as their God, too.  On the other hand, if they disobeyed the nations would also see God’s character and power as He brought about the curses He had promised that disobedience would bring.
Israel was to be God’s “light on a hill” that would draw the world to Himself.

It is the Abrahamic covenant and the Old Covenant that are the basis for all that happens in the Old Testament section of the Bible.  Why weren’t those
two enough?  Why was there a need for a third covenant and what does it contain?
We’ll look at that next time.

 

Related articles

Does A Middle Aged Woman Need To Reinvent Herself?

Jul8

 

 

The words reinvent yourself are very common these days. I’ve used them myself when describing what’s going on in my life. But when seriously thinking about it something came to me. Why should I reinvent myself? Who I am is who I am and God made me who I am. Does that make sense?

It just took me a few years to get to this place (46 to be exact) but Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us, “There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heaven.” So maybe I’ve just reached this time and season of my life. It’s not reinventing, it’s releasing who I am. This excites me because I know there’s more to come and I’m so thankful God Himself created me to be this woman that I am, the way I am.

I was in a conversation with some other women over at (in) courage and Caryn at Disposable Women  quoted from a devotional she had read recently, ” Lord help me to see myself the way you see me. No matter how BEAUTIFUL that may be. Amen.” I immediately fell in love with this quote and prayed it for myself. I urge you to do the same because whether you believe it or not you are BEAUTIFUL  inside and out. Believe truth.

Is reinvention necessary? No, but release yourself to the Father allowing Him to set you on your individual journey. On this road you’ll discover your place in this world which is to expand His kingdom. Relax, release and run with Jesus.

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Older, Old, New- Short Study of Covenant

Jul11

Unfortunately we are the end of our study about the Old and New Covenants with Dee Gredler. I believe this one is the best because the New Covenant is the BEST. I can’t wait for you to dive in. Dee and I pray God through His Holy Spirit gives you a fresh new perspective about His great love and grace for you.

It's a new day in Christ Jesus.

Older, Old and
New – Part 3 of 3

 

God spoke through the prophets Jeremiah and Ezekiel to tell Israel that one day He would put a
new covenant into effect.  Since God is all-knowing it wasn’t as if He one day decided that the Old Covenant just wasn’t doing the job.  So what was the purpose of the Old Covenant?

 

We saw last week that one of the purposes was to promote a lifestyle so distinct that the nations around Israel would be drawn to God and begin to follow Him.  It is clear from the history of Israel that the sins of the people kept others from seeking God.  But there were other reasons for the Old Covenant.  One of those reasons was so people would know what was sinful so they would avoid those things.  It also made it crystal clear that no matter how hard they tried they were going to sin.  And finally, it was to show them that since they were incapable of keeping the Law they had no choice but to be totally dependent on God and the future Savior that He had promised.  It
was only this Savior who could save them from their sins.

 

If you read through the promises connected with the New Covenant as laid out in Jeremiah and Ezekiel (Jeremiah 31:31-34;32:37-41; Ezekiel 11:17-21;36:24-30) you will see that the promises can be divided into two categories. These two categories involve physical promises (return to the land, abundance, peace) and spiritual promises having to do with their relationship with God (a new heart, a new spirit, the Holy Spirit, forgiveness and cleansing).  As we read through the New Testament we see that the fulfillment of the spiritual promises has occurred.  Because Jesus, the spiritual seed promised to Abraham, has arrived (Galatians 3:16) the Holy Spirit has been given to those who believe in Him.  They have also been forgiven and cleansed and now have the potential of becoming people who are of one mind and one spirit with God Himself.

 

But what about the physical promises of the land being returned to the nation of
Israel?  The book of Revelation, along with some of the Old Testament prophecies, tells us that when Jesus returns a second time Israel will be in their land to stay.

 

Where do we stand today in regards to these covenants?  The Old Covenant is no longer in effect.  The Abrahamic Covenant is still in effect and in fact its fulfillment is found in the New Covenant.  But the New Covenant does more than fulfill the Abrahamic Covenant.  It takes it from
a covenant available only to the physical descendants of Abraham and makes it available to anyone who wants to enter into the covenant.

 

But perhaps the most amazing thing the New Covenant does is to so fundamentally change God’s covenant partners that they are indwelt by God Himself.  And because of this their whole self (will, emotions, attitudes, physical responses, relationships) has the potential of experiencing being conformed to the very character of Jesus Christ.

Oldest, Old and New.  By the grace of God membership into the New Covenant is available to anyone who believes that Jesus has given Himself as the sacrifice for their sins and offers a life of love, joy, peace, gentleness, goodness, kindness and self-control to anyone who wants it.  I know I do.  Do you?

 

 

  

When You Can’t Breathe

Aug4

Hey my friends I’m over at Christian Women’s Online Network  again today. Check out my article and if you like what you read click the “like button” or leave a comment so we can communicate about it. Take a look around this great Christian women’s website. It has been a wonderful blessing in my life and the women over there have a lot to say you’ll want to hear.

I’m reposting a favorite today. I hope you’ll be refreshed and share it with someone who needs to hear from God.

 

 

I watched a documentary on television about large cats. It was horrible to see them kill their prey. What was even more disturbing was how they did it.

The lion, tiger or other large cat chases then catches its prey. The cat latches onto the neck along the windpipe and carotid artery and clamps down. This cuts off the air supply and blood flow    rendering the animal helpless and killing it within minutes. I know this shouldn’t bother me, the food chain and all, but it is so sad for the animal. However the basic instinct of a large cat is to hunt and kill for its food.

When I saw this I thought of the verse in the Bible “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to
devour.” 1 Peter 5:8  

Have you ever had your air supply cut off? You can’t breathe! That’s what happens when your
enemy tries to defeat you. He cuts the air to your mental, emotional, spiritual or physical supply. You feel smothered, closed in, with nowhere to turn. Like the lion, it’s his instinct to destroy you.

 

His grasp can be tight and restraining causing you to lose sight of the freedom you have in Jesus Christ.  Christ came to set the captives free “The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, Because the LORD has anointed me To bring good news to the afflicted;
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to captives,
freedom to prisoners;” Isaiah 61:1

Has the enemy pinned you down? Stopped your air and blood supply? Is he attempting to kill
you from the inside out? Oh beautiful woman let your Mighty God fight this battle for you. “Do not fear or be dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours
but God’s.” 2 Chronicles 20:15b

Surrender to Him now and tell Jesus you know you can do nothing without Him. (John 15:4)
Feel the freedom from letting go. Feel the release of the enemy and breathe again!

Abundant life can be yours. (John 10:10) It may not be a life of fine jewels and lots of money
but a life of peace, joy, trust, confidence, and love. It’s a life of promise and hope.

The Father in heaven loves you. Oh precious one believe it. He values you as much as He
values His own Son. If He didn’t He would not have given Jesus as a sacrifice for you. But God did that out of His amazing love and grace for you.

If there was ever a message I want you to get it is this one: God. Loves. You. Even if life seems to have thrown you a curve ball don’t doubt it. This fallen world has much trouble; you and I are bound to get caught up in it at some time in our lives. It happens when someone sins against us, we sin and bring trouble upon ourselves, natural or environmental disasters and sicknesses come or the enemy wants to smother us. However through it all God promises for those that are called according to His purpose (followers of Christ) He will bring good out of the bad. (Romans 8:28)

 

I speak from experience as one who thought she was unlovable and one who hurt so bad it was almost unbearable. God loved me through it even when I didn’t want to love Him back. He never gave up, He never stopped giving. He was and is the lifter of my head.  “But you, LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high.” Psalm 3:3

Now raise yours arms, take a deep breath and breathe in the One who calls you His beloved.

Don’t forget to check out www.juliemooreonlife.wordpress.com for more  posts- fiction, humor, memoirs, faith, marriage and more.

When Your Enemy Tries To Destroy Self-Esteem

Jul25

 

 

I just read a great post  here Finding Contentment in Imperfection about comparing yourself to others. Unfortunately I find myself comparing my weight to other women. My goal weight is about 25 pounds lighter than what I am right now. The thing is I haven’t put a whole lot of effort into losing this weight because I look in the mirror and I’m ok with whom I see.

 

So when did I become “unok” with me? This weekend when my daughter and I went on a short vacation together. I took my new camera and snapped lots of pictures. Only to discover I absolutely looked very overweight in the pictures. A picture says a thousand words and I felt like those pictures said, “Julie you weight a thousand pounds.”

I am disappointed in myself because I have come so far in being content with who I am and not putting on masks to be someone I’m not. Seeing these pics caused me to want to be a skinny woman, which I am not and I felt self- conscious about my body, and more than that my face and hair.

Now this is not who I am in Christ! I am who I am and I am content with who I am. I am His workmanship made perfectly the way He wants me to be made, with the hair I’m supposed to have (with a little color alteration) and the face of His choosing. To doubt my beauty is to doubt the God of the universe. Wow, where do I get off doing that.

 

And where did these thoughts come from? Could it be the enemy once again trying to thwart the plans God had for us to have a wonderful time making sweet memories? John 10:10 The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy but I come that you may have life and have it more abundantly. Could it be possible he’d want to destroy our time together by putting my mind on fleshly things like my looks? And guess who fell for it? Yep that would be me. Although I did not concentrate on it the whole time but it crossed my mind when it came time to take a picture.

 

My identity in Christ is so important to me and it keeps me stable and content. I regret letting the enemy throw me off sync even for a minute but thank goodness for my great God’s awesome grace. He knows me inside and out and knows my imperfections and flaws but by golly He just keeps on loving me, keeps on calling me, keeps on blessing me, and keeps on teaching me that He is my life and that’s the only way to live.

How about you? Do you struggle with comparing yourself? Does the enemy ever stick it to you? Let me encourage you today- Jesus Christ in you is more powerful, beautiful, righteous, glorious, joyous, peaceful, and loving than any enemy anywhere. Live on that!

 

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Does The Spirit Convict Believers of Sin or Not?

Jul27

The Holy Spirit convicts me of who I am in Christ. Contrary to popular belief He does not convict me of sin making me feel guilty. Romans 8:1 Therefore there is now no condemnation in Christ Jesus.

He is like a breeze in the trees blowing through my soul or  a loud drumroll when I get distracted and it’s harder to get my attention.

John 16:8-11 And He, when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment; concerning sin, because they do not believe in Me; and concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father and you no longer see Me; and concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged.

We read in John 16:8-11 that the Spirit comes to convict those who do not believe of their sin, not believers.  But He is here to convict  believers about their righteousness. Why? Because Jesus was going to the Father and could not be there to remind the disciples (and other believers) of their righteousness. How did the disciples and future believers like you and me become righteousness? Through the finished work of Jesus on the cross. We become righteous the moment we believe. Romans 5:17-19

The Holy Spirit reminds me of who I am when I put on a mask and become a fake. I may say a rude word or two to my husband and the Spirit will nudge me saying, ” That’s not who you really are inside. In Christ you love unconditionally and your words are wholesome and uplifting.” At this time I know I ought to be the “real” me and apologize to hubby and make things right.

Suppose a believer has a habit that she just keeps coming back to over and over. Each time the Spirit says, “Laurie you are not the person you are pretending to be. You are a child of God who respects your body as His holy temple. Now why don’t live like who you really are. I have given you the power to do it.” As time goes on without condemnation Laurie truly begins to feel God’s love whether she gives into the habit or not. Eventually she sins less and does live out of who she is, not the fake her, not the one who feels she has to pretend. The more she realizes God’s love the more healing she receives. The habit is broken by the power of the Spirit in her and the captive is set free from the sin that held her.

No,

the Holy Spirit does not convict the believer of sin but reaffirms her of her righteousness until she gets it. He convicts her of righteousness. It’s in the Bible John 16:8-11.

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Don’t forget to stop by Julie Moore On Life on your way out and enjoy my latest post A Child and His Grief.

Photo taken at Boone Plantation copyright JulieMooreOnLife.

My First Photo Contest Entry! Cool!

Jul30

One of the first buildings built on Boone Plantation with the bricks made there.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is my Still Life Stand Out entry for July 2011. I’m excited cause I’ve never entered one of my photos in anything. This took courage so friends give me some love.

A Child Can Change The World

Jul31
                    My edit
This is an edit me photo challenge from My Reflection of Something. I used Windows Photo Gallery and made color and exposure adjustments until I came up with this edit that looks like heaven is shining down on this beautiful child. Then I added the words “I can change the world” because every child is created with a special purpose.
                                                                                                                                Before

He Makes Me Lie Down In Green Pastures

Aug2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Lord is my shepherd I will not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul…

I thank God that He is my very own shepherd. My keeper who takes care of me every minute of every day. I am blessed because I am His child. I am highly favored and as His sheep He watches over me and makes sure I am never in want. Want meaning what He believes is best for me, not anything I want. Although I do think He blesses me with what I want if it isn’t going to hurt me and He wants to give me a special hug. After all He is God and when we understand grace we begin to see we have inherited more blessings than we could ever imagine.

We believers sometimes don’t take God’s Word literally but if we are to live the grace filled, abundant life we have to know and live out of truth. Jesus is our Good Shepherd  (John 10:11-15). As our shepherd He makes me lie down in green pastures giving me rest. He provides the rest I need. I just have to accept it and live out of that rest instead of the stress the world gives.

He restores my soul. Ahhh how peaceful and refreshing that sounds. Only Christ can restore me and you to the wholeness of a gracefull woman. But will we let Him restore us or will we turn to the world for something to make us feel better?

A temporary fix.

A shot of adrenaline.

A material girl shopping spree.

A time of looking for love in all the wrong places.

It is only Jesus who can fill that want in you, who leads you to a place of rest and restores your body, soul, mind and spirit.

If I could put “rest” in a picture it would be a big comfy bed with fluffy pillows, chocolate, books, peaceful sleep, my Bible, a journal, and a cup of coffee and no time limits. If you could put “rest” in to a picture how would it look?

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My Rescue Story By Jennifer Hembree

Aug15

God reached down from heaven & chose me to be His daughter when I was 5 years old. Yes, that seems so young. Yet, I remember it as if it were yesterday. My Sunday school teacher & I knelt down at a chair at my church, & I prayed to accept Christ in my heart. Sunshine beamed through the window of that small room, & I remember running through the hallways pulling on the coat
tails or hugging the legs of everyone that I came in contact with that Sunday morning so excited to tell the news!

I had an incredibly, loving, & supporting family & grew up with daily prayers offered up for my life by my parents & grandparents. However, I doubted my salvation because I didn’t have one of those dramatic testimonies of a wild life, hitting rock bottom for Christ to save. Around the age of 14, I gave my life fully to Christ & was baptized.

The next summer, I went on my first mission’s trip to Haiti, the poorest country in the world at the time, for three weeks. I was a part of a dynamic church family who loved me & cared
for my spiritual growth, & the talents & gifts God had given me. I am forever thankful for all the men & women who had such great influence on my life.

A couple years later, I went to the altar & told God I would go wherever He wanted me to go to be used by Him to fulfill His purpose & plan through my life. If it was Africa, I would go!

Still, selfishness interfered with God’s work in my life. And, after the death of my grandmother just after my high school graduation, my heart was so broken & hurting. My beloved
friend & prayer warrior was gone unexpectedly. I went off to college & began choosing my way instead of God’s way. It got me in trouble. But, thankfully, through God’s sovereignty & power, He rescued me & brought me back to Himself. He set the captive FREE!!!

I would not be fulfilling the calling on my life if I had not had challenges & hardships along the way. Adversity in my life led me to my destiny!

I am Jennifer Hembree, & I am a RESCUE!

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Nasty Note Nailed to Church In Cumming Georgia

Aug17

I don’t know why I was surprised when I read this article about someone nailing a nasty note to a church door in Cumming. I believe some in our country have forgotten or never learned how to show grace to each other and this incidence is just more evidence of that fact.

Apparently the pastor of Antioch Baptist Church had gone to a neighboring community and left flyers taped on the brick mailboxes and tacked to the wooden mailboxes.  This seems harmless and was probably his attempt to invite people to church and/or share the Good News.

Someone took great offence to it and went to the church, NAILED the flyer to the church door with a note that read, “I don’t like holes in my things either.” Wow! I can only imagine what would make someone this angry. I can speculate all day long and never come up with anything to justify such an act. I can’t judge the person who did this because I have no idea what frame of mind he/she was in or the motive of heart. What I do know is that the act itself was hurtful to a pastor and his congregation who did have right motives for giving out the flyers.

I can’t help but think maybe this person has been hurt by the church or feels God has betrayed him or her. Then again because of the way it was worded it sorta sounds like an elderly person who just doesn’t want his “things” touched.

I just found this interesting and really thought it was uncalled for but who am I to judge?

On the other hand think about the pastor who did the “dirty” deed. I’m sure he meant no harm. As a matter of fact he was probably trying to help the people in his community.

I hope he doesn’t get discouraged by this act. May he find the courage to keep extending his hand in grace even in persecution. Yes this was a form of persecution, different from what happens in China and other foreign places but persecution nonetheless.

What do you have to say about this incident?

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God’s Girls by Darlene Minshew

Aug18

I want to warmly welcome my sweet friend Darlene today. She has a heart for hurting women and takes action to help in the community and church. Darlene is active in our county’s women’s prison ministry, women’s shelter and food pantry. She gives hands and feet to Jesus’ love. Welcome her today here at Grace Full Women.

 

I am one of God’s Girls who had lost her way. Over the years God has brought me to many others like myself, so misinformed and utterly confused. These were women who had been saved at a young age then lost their way in the rebellion of their youth.

Our world is consumed with self-indulgence and feel good movements. We let the ways of the world take the place of God in our lives, wanting to just fit in. Utterly afraid to stand out for God, to let the world know we were different.

Many of us falsely believe we can earn or lose our salvation based on our performance, ever
grasping to achieve an unattainable perfection. Some of us placing God on a pedestal so far out of reach we gave up on reaching him long ago. This causes us to come to the conclusion that we can’t be good enough. Then slowly beginning to give in to our sins, surrendering to our flesh we lose our way, feeling we have no hope.

The good news is He never gave up on us.  He was there with us the whole time.

 Gently calling us home.

 Tugging softly on our heart strings.

 Showing us His love through the kindness of a stranger. 

 Trying to bless us with a glimpse into the future He wants to give us.

 Wanting us to see the beautiful women He sees when we look at our reflections in the mirror.

 Reminding us we are His.  

 Gently pulling us back to Him so that we can be restored.

Because He sent His Son Jesus to the cross to die for our sins, to pay the punishment for all of our wrongs, nothing we can do can cause God to take back our salvation.  Nothing can take us out of the book of life once we are His. Nothing!

No matter how far away from Him you try to go, you can never remove yourself from God’s embrace.  Even if you’ve done so much you hate yourself to the point you can’t look at yourself in the mirror. He still loves you.

The Father wants to restore, protect, guide, supply your every need, and carry every burden. He wants a personal relationship with you, a relationship of unconditional love. He will never leave you or forsake you. Let Him restore your life.

From one of God’s Girls to another let me say this from my heart to yours, “It is time to come home.”

“Forget about what’s happened; don’t keep going over old history. Be
alert; be present. I’m about to do something brand-new. It’s bursting out!
Don’t you see it? There it is! I’m making a road through the desert, rivers in
the bad lands.” ISA 43:18-19

 

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Elizabeth Taylor: Was She Truly Fulfilled?

Mar27

50 films and 70 years after her acting career began we are still talking about the queen of stardom Elizabeth Taylor. Although this younger generation may only know of her from perfume commercials we who grew up with her know she had many more charms up her sleeve.

Liz was worshipped by many and lived as if she should be worshipped. Pictures almost always portrayed her with her head held high and with a look of royalty about her. I don’t know if that’s the way she truly felt on the inside or not because very seldom did she reveal her inner thoughts to the public.

Elizabeth Taylor had an image and she kept to that image as much as possible. Of course there were times she turned to substance abuse but I believe this woman who seemed to have it all was looking for something to fulfill her within. It seemed she moved from one husband to another trying to find some way to satisfy an emptiness. Maybe I’m wrong, but I’ve spent much time myself trying to find completeness in the world.

The truth is the world does not have the answer to fulfillment. No matter how much time and effort I put into seeking and searching nothing last for long. Nothing of material value, no substance , no human can fill the emptiness permanently.

I can’t be satisfied by anything or anyone in this world. I’m not supposed to be satisfied that way because there’s a keyhole in my heart and the world does not have the key to open it.

I found the key, or should I say He found me. Jesus Christ. Let Him open your heart to a world of peace, love and joy today.

Liz Taylor thank you for all the years of entertainment, mystery, and love you gave to the world. Rest in peace.

A Blogging Award for Me? Thanks! I'm Passing It On…

Mar28

Versatile Blogger Award


Ok so good news for me. I was awarded a Versatile Blogger Award by my blogger friend and sister in Christ, Debbi Robertson at 24atheart.wordpress.com. Check out Debbi’s blog. She also a fantastic photographer. The award is proudly displayed on the sidebar on the right. Since accepting I am supposed to tell you 7 things about myself and send the award to other bloggers that I love to read. I realize some of you may not have time to give this award out to others or write another blog about yourself but its the thought that counts. And I think you’re all great!

So here goes….

7 things about me

1- I have 3 dogs, Gabe- Sheltie, Georgia- Pom, Lola- English Bulldog
2- I have 1 cat named Greg, he’s 13 years old and still going strong.
3- My favorite TV shows are American Idol, Harry’s Law, Survivor and Days of Our Lives (my secret indulgence of 40 years which is no longer a secret)
4- The natural color of my hair is light mousy brown, but since I prefer red/auburn with blonde highlights, well that’s the color it is now.
5- I love my bed. If you didn’t read She’s My Refuge take a peek at this comforting piece of poetry.
6- I teach women’s Bible studies and have done so for almost 17 years.
7- My favorite meal is Thai cashew chicken with sticky rice. Yum!

And the award goes to……
In no particular order

Kristi Hill at www.lightfromthehill.wordpress.com
Gina Stinson at www.journalinggina.blogspot.com
Sushmita at www.opalomega.blogspot.com
Vicki at Light for the Writer’s Soul www.victoriagaines.com
Amy at Collect Yourself www.amysioux.wordpress.com
Rachel at www.thelazychristian.com
Liz at www.eternallizdom.blogspot.com
Mamma Buffa at www.butteredside.com

The blogs are some of my favorites and I hope you’ll check them out, you won’t be sorry you did.

I Don't Want To Hurt God Anymore.

Mar28

I taught a class today and we discussed how and why to make right choices. I asked the question, “What helps us make the right choice?” Various answers were given such as prayer, Bible study, knowing God’s Word, and relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance. Then one of the women spoke in a small voice,” I don’t want to hurt God anymore.” I’ll never forget that childlike, sincere answer to that question. I’ll always remember the way she sat there looking down at the table while she made a simple but profound statement. A statement that warmed my heart and spirit. I couldn’t help but smile and I knew just what she meant because I felt that way too. This sweet soul just knew how to put it into words.

While the rest of us had all the “grown-up” answers, answers that were true nonetheless, she had the one answer that made the most sense to me. Make the right choice because we love Jesus. A love that is rooted in the love He first gave to us. Make the right choice because we don’t want to hurt Him anymore. Simple but perfect and true.

10 Things I Liked About This Week of My Journey to Health

Mar30

1- I do like that I’ve lost 4 pounds!

2- I like that I have a tiny bit more energy this week.

3- I do like it that I don’t have to eat as much to get full.

4- I do like it that candied orange slices are sweet enough to satisfy me today instead of chocolate.

5- I like that I enjoyed tacos made with turkey instead of beef. No, really I did.

6- I do like that I exercised more last week than I have in the last 6 months.

7- I do like it that I’ve had to depend on God to help me be successful with this healthy lifestyle changing stuff. Why? Because He makes me successful when I can’t do it on my own.

8- I like the thought of maybe wearing tank tops when it gets hot, although this is still sort of a struggle for me.

9- I like the grilled chicken salad at O’Charley’s and the Pecan/Apple salad at Wendy’s. For real!

10- I like it that my friends are so supportive of the changes I’m trying to make. Thank you!

It’s amazing how good I feel when I succeed at something I really want to do. It gives me a motivation boost to keep going. Things look quite different this week than they did last week. Even though I’ve hardly had a peek at the blue skies here in Georgia my hopes are high. And so for the next week I will drink more water, eat more fruit, less chocolate and pray, pray and pray some more.

Motivator:I’m reading Younger Next Year for Women by Chris Crowley and Harry Lodge. The motivator I’ve gotten so far is that there are 90-year-old women skiing, riding bikes, and walking marathons because they followed the advice of these men. What advice? Drinking lots of water and walking everyday or some other aerobic exercise. The key is EVERYDAY! Of course there’s much more to the book, actually it’s hard to put down, read it for yourself or got to the blog at www.youngernextyear.com/blog</

How did you do with your lifestyle changes this past week?

I Wouldn't Want To Be You or Brangelina.

Mar30

What if you could change your identity? Let’s say the slate was wiped clean and you could trade places with anyone you wanted, who would it be? Where would you live and what would you be doing different right now? What if God gave you the choice to change lives with someone else? (I say God because if it could be done it could only be done by Him.) Who would you make the exchange with?

These questions maybe very easy to answer for some and difficult for others. Right now my answer is different from what it would have been years ago. There was a time when life was harried and I was a lot less confident in myself that I would have exchanged places with anyone who didn’t have the name “mommy” or “Julie”. I would have gone to live alone on a desert island just for some peace and quiet from life’s stress, strain and pain.

However, right now I wouldn’t want to trade places with anyone else. I like my identity as it is and the more I find out about the woman God made me to be the more I like me. From what I can see so far He is doing a good thing in me. He gives my life an abundance of love, security, peace, joy, laughter, relationships, and wisdom and purpose. I’ve never been as whole and fulfilled as I am right now. Only He can get the credit for that. Oh I’d love to say that I’ve done all this changing of mind, soul and spirit by myself but let’s give credit where credit is due.

What it boils down to is this, I wouldn’t want to trade places with Anne Graham Lotz (Billy Graham’s daughter), Oprah Winfrey, Angelina Jolie with hunky Brad Pitt, or even you. I love my life. Sure I have days that things seem dark and dreary but the sun does rise and I do get up and start anew. Life with Jesus is right even when life seems to go wrong.

So let’s get back to the beginning. What if you could trade places with anyone else in this world, would you? Why or why not?

Do You Believe In Guardian Angels?

Apr1

Psalm 91:11-12 For he will command his angels concerning you

Yesterday MM had a fender bender, well it was more than that actually. He rear ended another car and smashed it up pretty bad but I literally thank God no one was hurt. Here’s the part that I am praising the Lord about… MM seldom wears his seatbelt for reasons known only to him. Yesterday afternoon for some reason he put it on. When he had the accident he was protected. As he hit the other car he was going pretty fast and without a seatbelt it could have been well… I don’t have to say anything else.

The thing is that as I prayed for him yesterday morning I asked God to speak to MM even if he didn’t realize who it was. To be strong in his spirit and let him know when the Holy Spirit was leading him. Truly, truly I believe God’s Spirit in him led him to put on that seatbelt, and His angels protected him. Do you believe in guardian angels? Or do you believe a thing like this is a mere coincidence? I hope not. Life would be sad for me if I had nothing to hope in, no one to believe in.

My prayer everyday for my family is that God will put His hedge of protection around them keeping them from danger, harm and evil. I have watched the Lord answer this prayer over and over again. All I can say today is thank You, thank You, thank You.

My car is being repaired and will be there who knows how long and unfortunately I did not get rental car insurance but another great thing that I don’t take credit for is we got a good discount on a rental car because we have State Farm Insurance. My agent is Mickey Littlefield in Fayetteville and has been for about 20 years. I have always received great customer service, discounts and have been made to feel like I am important. When I get good service I like to pass it along.

Have a extraordinary weekend and live full!

Why I Keep Staying on the Weight Loss Journey

Apr5

So I have to give an update of my journey to health.

1- Last week I ate much healthier than the week before, but didn’t lose any weight.

2- I feel on days like today I kind of balanced things out when I ate 3 homemade cookies for lunch, then a small bowl of beanie weenies and a few stalks of celery for dinner. What do you think?

3- I consider it a VICTORY when I can wear my 27 year old daughter’s hand me down pants. I feel like I went shopping today!

4- I had coffee with a new friend today at Starbuck’s. The Vanilla Skinny Latte was delicious, try it if you haven’t, you’ll never know it has fewer calories than most the other coffees there.

5- Vanilla Wafers are so much better for me than a Hershey’s Almond Chocolate bar, right? I hope so, half the box disappeared last night.

6- I am drinking even more water this week and spending more time checking out bathrooms around my county.

7- My mind seems to be clearer, not so foggy as it has been lately. I’m not sure if that has something to do with the changes I’m making or not but I suspect it does.

8- I discovered lowfat turkey hotdogs are not as good as they sound, however they get the job done.

9- I received a compliment from an older gentleman this week, he said ” You look like you’re losing weight.” Does this count even if it was my 74 year old father-in-law? Hey motivation is motivation wherever it might come from.

10- I have a sleeping problem. It is imperative if a healthy lifestyle is to succeed that one get a good night’s sleep. Unfortunately there’s a train in the bed with me every night. Anyone have any ideas other than surgery or nose strips?

All in all this week was just ok. Watching the scales tip in my favor would have made it much better but I did get that compliment which gives me motivation to go on another week. It’s day by day, week by week for me.

Identity Thief: Will You Let Him Keep Stealing From You?

Apr6

Do you get your identity from others? It’s a thoughtful question isn’t it? Think about it. When someone says something about you that is negative, such as, you’re stupid, you can’t succeed at that, you are such a loser, you’ll never make anything of yourself, when a lie comes out of another’s mouth about you what do you do? If you believe it you can begin to take on a false identity. You are not stupid, you can succeed, you are not a loser and you are already someone special and precious.

Your identity is found in a loving God who gave His Son for you. You are as valuable to Him as His own son Jesus. So valuable that He allowed Him to die in your place on a cross over 2000 years ago. Is this just for the believer? No, He gave His son because He loved the world. Each one in the WORLD is valuable to God. John 3:16 It’s when you believe and receive the gift He gives that your identity becomes one with Christ.

Your identity is wrapped up in the goodness of Christ not the bad of the world. You are whole, complete and full in your spirit. It may not feel like it, or look like it on the outside but it is the TRUTH. As believers we are to live out of the truth.
Do not let someone else define who you are. Combat their lies with the truth. You are loved, special, precious, worthy. You are allowed feel your feelings, even if someone else thinks you shouldn’t be feeling this way or that way. Go ahead feel it, deal with it, know who you are in Christ, and move on to the next thing.

I read that in WWII while in the German concentration camps the Jewish people were forced to feel inferior to the Nazis. This was done by shaving every prisoner’s head, man, woman and child, dressing them all in the same prison uniforms and by branding each one with a number. The purpose of this was to make them all feel the same, to take away their individuality, and uniqueness. They were called by numbers not their names in order to give them even less value. This is the way our enemy works to give us a false identity. He wants us to feel inferior to others, nameless, never unique or special. What does this do to us? It keeps us ineffective in life, especially when it comes to following Jesus Christ.

So the next time you are tempted, and it is the enemy tempting you to feel unworthy, ask these questions:

Is this truth?
What is the truth?
What will I do with this truth?

If you believe truth then walk in it and live out of your real identity not the identity someone else tries to give you.

Is It Okay To Question God?

Apr7

If God were sitting right beside you now, on the couch, the bed, in a chair or in the kitchen on a bar stool watching you cook, what would you talk to Him about?

Would you ask Him questions about world peace and if or when it will come? How about the Japan earthquake and tsunami?

Maybe you’d ask Him why questions. Why did she die? Why did my marriage end? Why can’t I find a job? Why do I feel so lonely? Why are my kids so far from you when I raised them in church? Why can’t I have children?

Maybe you’d ask how questions. How did you make this body that works so perfectly in tune? How is it the ocean waves come to shore then carry me back out into the water? How can I go on when my world is falling apart? How can You stand by and watch innocent children go hungry?

Who questions. Who will I marry? Who will save me from myself? Who am I? Who are You?

Conversation with the Father can be full of difficult questions or it can be easy talking about everyday life. It’s whatever you need it to be. He is there to listen and build a relationship with you.

Is it ok to ask the hard questions? Sure, He knows our questions before we ask them. Is it alright to be angry at life and at God when things don’t turn out the way we want them to? He knows that too. Just tell Him how you feel, get it out in the open. It’s not like we can hide it from Him.

When my father died in 1999 I had never lost anyone that close to me before. My heart was broke in half and it literally hurt. I did not know how to express the hurt, pain and anger I felt. One night before the funeral I went to daddy’s house alone and sat down with a pad of paper and a pen. My thoughts and feelings flowed as I wrote everything I felt. Everything! I told God how I felt He betrayed me by taking my father, how angry I was, how I wasn’t sure how I would go on, that I didn’t know how to do this thing called “living” without my precious hero. When I was done, I was done. It was over, the anger subsided and I had resolved many of the issues that troubled me. As I read the words I wrote I saw that I began to accept his death a little more as I expressed myself on paper. I needed to tell my heavenly Father what was going on in my heart and mind to be able to move to the next step. He listened, He comforted and He loved me that night. Don’t misunderstand me, grief is a long process for some of us and it was for me but that night was the first step for me.

Tell God whatever you need to tell Him, ask all the questions you want, He will never turn His back on you. He is faithful, He is love and He understands.

2 Corinthians 1: 3-4 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

I'm Guest Posting Today: Come by The Lazy Christian

Apr8

Today is a special day for me. I’m guest posting over at The Lazy Christian. Hope you’ll stop by and peek at my post Stairway to Heaven yeah you know the one by Led Zepplin. Also stay a minute and give Rachel who writes The Lazy Christian some love. I accidentally ran into her on Blogher.com, my other blogging place, and have been reading her for months. She’s funny and hugely insightful too. You’ll miss a blessing if you don’t read a post or two by Rach.

Now for new exciting news drum roll######## I finished my website last night. It’s up and running check it out at Gracefullwomen.com.

Join me today over at The Lazy Christian. See you there, feel free to leave comments too!

When Your Friend Hurts….

Apr11

I have a friend in great emotional pain because someone is purposely hurting her. She is experiencing such loss at this moment. The tears she cries could fill a lake, no, an ocean because they are constant.

What can I do? I am helpless to do anything but listen. That’s what I do when she calls, I listen. Somehow it seems to ease her pain for just a moment to talk about something other than the situation. But eventually conversation comes back around to the problem. So I listen, and cry with her and try to be a shoulder for her to lean on.

And I pray. I lift her and her family up to the Father knowing He has the answer. And though the answer may not come as quickly as we would like He is working it out because I know it just can’t stay like it is now.

Sometimes in the middle of a bad situation it’s hard to step back and see the big picture, it’s hard to pray, it’s even harder to believe there’s something good coming. But thank the Lord for family and friends that believe for us, that pray when we can’t and stand with us during this time of despair.

I’ve been on both sides and God has always been faithful to me. Let me encourage you to be the friend someone needs but also be sure to take the hand of friendship when you need it too.

Zumba and Me

Apr13

This week on my healthy lifestyle journey has been better.

I bought Zumba for the Wii. Need I say more? Well just for kicks I will. The goal is to make it through a 20 minute session, each session is broken down into 4 and 5 minute parts. Chelle (Hound’s fiancée) and I have made it through several 4 minute sessions but no further. We are having great fun while doing it and laughing so hard we feel like we’ve done 100 sit ups, but 4 minutes is it!

In this process I am learning a variety of new dances all of which I can’t pronouce but seem to be of the Latin variation. I’m moving so fast I look like an idiot. I know this because Chelle looks like an idiot so I must.

However our goal is to work up to 6 minutes by the end of the week. It sounds pitiful I know but Zumba is the hardest form of exercise I’ve ever tried to do. We will not give up though because it so much fun and we know there are so many benefits from this 4 minute workout.

Survivor's Boston Rob Controls His Puppets

Apr14

Tonight on Survivor Boston Rob showed his control over the Ometepe tribe in several ways. He set up a new system, the Buddy System. Each tribe member had to take a buddy everywhere they went even to the bush. The reason for this was not safety as most of us remember from elementary school, no, Rob wanted to make sure the Zap tribe didn’t get the chance to persuade one of them to switch sides. Ometepe members were not allowed to talk to the others about anything “game” related.

There were two challenges with Grant and Andrea winning individual immunity.
After each challenge there was a tribal council and Mike and David were voted off and joined Matt on Redemption Island. My hope is that Matt wins both challenges against them. My hope is that Matt although too trusting, has learned his lesson and is ready to play for reals…

Special Agent Phillip, agent with 3 different agencies (eyes rolling back in head), wore a headband with one large feather sticking out of it. When Jeff asked why he wore it he said he asked for a sign and the next thing he knew the feather fell from the sky. He also shared with millions of viewers of an intimate time he shared with is great, great grandfather who in so many words told him one of his team members would win the Survivor game. Really? He was told this in a vision while in meditation.

Later in the game Rob stated he would take Phillip and Natalie with him to the top 3. His thinking must be that because Phillip seems “crazy” he may not get the votes of the jury. However in a private interview with Phillip he let on that he may be pretending to be “crazy” to get taken to the top 2 with Rob. So is Phillip off his rocker or not? I’m beginning to think he may not be as wacky as he has led us to believe.

The zinger for the night for me was when Puppet Master Rob refused to allow his team to eat the fish the Zap team caught, and what blew me away is that the little puppets did as they were told. They sat right next to the others while they ate the fish and although starving did not accept one bite even when offered.
Grant did take a few bites and said “I’m my own man”, but then when called back to his group returned and left the fish behind. I guess a million is worth giving up a few bites of fish. What was Rob’s reasoning for ordering his team to refuse food that would make them stronger in challenges and was ultimately healthy for them? I think he wanted to prove he had complete control over his little kingdom by having them not accept anything from the Zap tribe.

All in all this was a great show tonight but confirmed once again that Rob is a manipulative snake in the grass. I am rooting for Matt to beat him in the final round.

Who would you like to see get to the final 2?

American Idol Review April 13th-

Apr14

This year on American Idol the talent is unbelievable! I have a hard time every week trying to figure out who will go home. No one should leave because they are all that good. They are “artists” as Randy calls them.

Why is there so much awesomeness this year? The judges. The judges this year know real talent and when they chose the top 24 they chose well. It makes a difference when the judges really know music and what it takes to make it. Steven, Jennifer and Randy together make a great combination and they know what they’re doing. No they don’t give a lot of criticism, but guess what? The top 8 last night didn’t need much criticism. These judges aren’t so lame as to just make it up to please their critics.

1-Paul in his quirky style pulled off Bob Seger.
2- Lauren did well with The Climb and being a 15-year-old from Georgia she’s bound to go far.
3- Sweet Stefano slayed his song and should be a top contender based on that performance, but will this pull him out of the bottom 3?
4- Scotty performing George Straight was excellent, a little pitchy I thought but the judges know better than me and said he was a star.
5- Casey entered the stage with his large bass guitar, not sure what it’s called, he did Nat King Cole in his unusual way.
6- Haley doing Blonde in her gaveling voice did not get rave reviews, judges did not like song choice,I’m just not a fan of Haley’s.
7- Jacob sang one of my all time fave Bridge Over Trouble Waters and he brought everything he had. I loved it.
8- Last was James doing Heavy Metal, I truly felt I was watching a rock concert. Go James . Another favorite of mine from the beginning.

Who will be in the bottom 3? I suspect Casey, Haley and Stefano with Haley going home, I hope. What do you think?

American Idol Loses Quirky Paul

Apr15

America said goodbye to Paul tonight on Idol. I have to give Paul props because his attitude about leaving was the best I’ve ever seen in all the years I’ve watched Idol. He told the audience to join him in his last song and said,”Now don’t be sad.” Paul’s last performance of Maggie May was stellar and I wish him well in his music career. There is no doubt we will hear Paul singing to us on the radio in the months to come.

Let me reiterate my statement from my last blog about the reason the judges do not criticize the contestants more often. They don’t need to! This is the most talented group of singers American Idol has ever had in its history. Why fix something that’s not broke? Right?

These judges brought in the most talented contestants in the United States and I’m proud we don’t have to listen to them run down these young people every week.

See you back here next week.

Guest Post Today: The Lazy Christian

Apr15

Today I want to introduce my new friend from the blogging world Rachel Synder. After teaching English and doing some freelance journalism Rachel chose the most important career of being a stay at home mom. However wanting to continue writing she now blogs at The Lazy Christian. I found her blog while perusing and fell in love with her transparency and wit. Stop by and check out her blog and be blessed. Oh yeah she’s also writing a book The Lazy Christian. Can’t wait Rach!

When I’m offered a guest post opportunity on someone else’s blog (like the one belonging to the fabulous Julie here), my first thought is:

Is there something I don’t want to tell my regular readers that I can put on this guest blog?

No joke.

I’m pretty honest on my blog, but there are always some embarrassing things that I don’t want to put on there. Things I struggle with that are embarrassing to tell people I know and love, or people who look to me to have it all together.

But you know what? My blog is called The Lazy Christian. I don’t have it all together. That’s kind of the point.

It’s human nature to want to hide things that embarrass us. Lousy pictures that make us look fat or show our hideous fashion choices during the 80s. Things from our past. Stories about that time we accidentally flashed our backsides during a school musical performance.

Oh. Was that only me?

And then, there’s one thing that we all want to hide—from our friends, from ourselves, and, stupidly enough, from God:

Sin.

When we become Christians, we become reborn. We get baptized and receive the Holy Spirit, and it changes who we are. It has to. If you’re trying to “spruce up” your old life by adding good deeds or showing up to church, that doesn’t cut it. You need a whole new life. You need to allow God to do an extreme makeover on your soul.

The other day, I was thinking of something from my “past life;” the girl I was before I was living my life for God. I started to feel guilty. I was ashamed of how I’d behaved and the things I’d done and said. My heart started feeling really heavy. Then this verse popped into my head:

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Now, I’m not great at memorizing scripture. I didn’t even know where that verse was located at the time—just that I’d heard it or read it before. But God placed it in my head—and in my heart—to remind me that I’m not who I was. That lousy Rachel is gone; God has made a new Rachel. I don’t have to be ashamed of that stuff anymore. It’s not me. That person doesn’t exist anymore.

It’s amazing how much sin in my life is starting to bother me. Little things I wouldn’t have even considered sin before are now glaring inconsistencies in my life. Compared to who I was ten years ago, the sin in my life now is pretty tame. Chump change, as it were. But that’s God at work in me. We’ve changed the big things, and now he’s getting picky. He’s working to make me the woman he needs me to be to do what he needs me to do.

And that’s nothing to be embarrassed of.

Whatever Lola Wants, Lola Gets! 52 Lbs. of Love

Apr17

What ever Lola wants, Lola gets! At least that’s the way it is in our family. She has her daddy wrapped around her paw just like his grown baby girl always has.
Listen to the words of this song and you will get a true picture of life with a 52 pound English Bulldog, who considers herself to be a lap dog.

Is There A Stairway To Heaven?

Apr20

thanks maggiemsp.wordpress.com

I was thinking about the song Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin yesterday. So I pulled up the words on Google and read back over them, they really didn’t make much sense to me except when he said, “and she’s buying a stairway to heaven.” It makes me think of the times in my life that I thought I could buy my way on up that stairway.

For years into my Christian life I followed the Savior pretty steady by my standards. I made my way up the stairway just fine without much looking back. I put one foot in front of the other and marched up each step by living according to the rules, having my children in church every Sunday, living as the submissive wife (well outwardly), and serving in the capacity anyone asked me to at the church. Personal time with the Lord was hard to come by but I was “doing” everything I was supposed to be doing. I just kept dragging myself up that stairway so I could hear the words “Well done good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23

Eventually there came that time when I could no longer climb those stairs and I stumbled and fell to the bottom. As I lay there crumpled up in a heap, I felt completely defeated. Now I would not hear those words I had so longed to hear, “Well done my good and faithful servant.” Where were all those “rules”, “obligations”, and “works” now that I needed them most? The truth is they were dead….they had always been dead, I just didn’t know it.

For some reason salvation for me included working to make God proud of me, working to keep up appearances for other Christians, and striving to serve and prove my love for God. But after lying in a pit of deep despair and sin for a while, I finally gave up and came to the end of myself.

Flash forward to a new day, today! What have I learned about that Stairway to Heaven? There’s not a stairway to heaven, there’s no drudgery, working, striving, pleasing to get to the top to hear those words I so wanted to hear. Amazingly enough the Father is pleased with me as I am because when I became His child He created me new, complete, whole, beautiful, and precious in His sight. God’s Holy Spirit lives in me giving me a “want to” to want to be like Jesus. I don’t have to work at it to make it happen. However, I do have to rest in Him and let it happen. Surrendering to be a Spirit-controlled woman is the best thing that I’ve ever done. It has freed me to be the woman of God I was created to be. I can take off the masks that I’ve been hiding behind for so many years and when I listen to the Spirit I naturally or should I say supernaturally do what He’s calling me to do. My love for Him is the motivation for serving Him now, and oh how I love Him because He first loved me. 1 John 4:9

Survivor's Phillip Loses His Cool

Apr21

The “star” of Survivor this week was the infamous Phillip. He kept the camp talking with his rantings and ravings. When Ometepe’s rice became infested with mildew and maggots Phillip wanted to put the good rice in the can with Zap’s rice. Steve protested and said when Ralph returned he would speak with him about it. However Phillip insisted it be done right then which caused an argument between he and Steve. Steve proceeded to call Phillip “crazy” which meant the “N” word according to the former Secret Agent. The rice incident became a racial incident. Although Steve said he in no way meant it that way Phillip still believes Steve thinks he is superior to him. He also stated that, “a lot of black men self destruct”, speaking of when they are drove to such anger. Wow! A rice war!

In the mean time Matt, Mike and David ponder what the plans are for them. Matt has prayed and sought God’s will and believes if he wins the duel he is meant to stay and fight for the win.

When the day of the duel finally arrives the three competitors compete with all the tribal members watching. The challenge was to build a tower 8 ft. tall and the first two to complete their towers stayed in the game with the last to finish leaving the game to become the first member of the jury. David lost against his hopes of staying around to win the million.

Phillip wore a new uniform tonight as he practiced karate, jujitsu or whatever it is he does on the beach. The attractive attire consisted of his droopy faded red tighty whitey undies with a loin cloth for a little color. On his head he still wore the headband with the hawk feather attached.

While Phillip is gone and his swim trunks are on the clothes line drying Julie takes the trunks and buries them. Phillip accuses Steve and ends up going to tribal council in his undies. Of course Jeff questions this and Phillip accuses Steve again and the racial rice story comes out. Jeff plays peacemaker and smoothed it over just a bit.

Julie admits to hiding the trunks and then gets voted off to leave for Redemption Island. As she leaves she remarks to Phillip, “I guess you’ll never find your trunks now.”

Interesting night on the Island. Still rooting for Matt to beat Rob out of a million dollars at the end. Yeah he is a Christian and he prays and talks about God a lot. I guess this turns some people off but this is one thing I really like about him.

Okay let’s take a vote now. Who do you think will be in the top 3? My pick Matt, Rob and Andrea.

Lifesong Celebration: Women On Their Way…

Apr23

Rosebud from my very own rose bush.

We celebrated with some wonderful women Thursday night as they graduated from Lifesong Ministries Jobs for Life program. What a reason for a party! From rosebuds to full blooming roses in 8 weeks time! God has done a work and we trust He will continue to grow these women in Him.

I can’t begin to tell you how amazing it is to be a part of a ministry that God takes an active part in. Every day that I have the privilege to teach, He is faithful to show us new and different lessons even beyond those we planned that day.

How blessed I am to be called to share the message of new life in Christ and what it is live as a Grace Full Woman. The women in this session were so open to the message and we saw great change in their demeanor, their skills, their speech, and the thoughts they had of themselves and others. Praise God!

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 2 Corinthians 5:17

Special Guest: Melinda Moffett from GodSpa

Apr22

Today’s guest post is written by my friend Melinda Moffett. She is owner and founder of GodSpa here in Henry County Georgia. You might recall my recent post about my visit, if not you can find out about my great visit by reading This Grace Full Woman Went To GodSpa. Melinda is a grace full woman who seeks God in her every day life and sets a godly example for her children and other women to follow. I hope you enjoy her post today. Leave a hug in the way of a comment, we love it!

Have you ever been in a time in your life where things were not happening like you thought they should? Did you look back and wonder, “I thought I heard Jesus say…” or “maybe I misunderstood His voice, what happened?!”. Maybe you’re in that time right now. You have been following close to Him but now you find yourself questioning where you are, how you got there, what happened or didn’t happen. In fact, where is Jesus?!
Take a walk with me today as we listen in on a conversation between two disciples and Jesus on the road to Emmaus. This particular conversation begins on the day of the resurrection. Mary and her friends had just left the tomb and reported to the apostles that Jesus’ tomb was empty and that He had risen. Two of the apostles were going to Emmaus. They were talking about everything that had happened. As they were discussing with each other ‘Jesus himself came up and walked along with them’. He asked them what they were talking about. ‘They stood still, their faces downcast.’ One of them asked him, “Are you not from here? Do you not know what has happened here?” (Isn’t that just like us sometimes? “Where have You been?” “Did You not know….?”) Jesus asked them “What happened?” The two men begin to fill Jesus in on the past days activities. ‘About Jesus of Nazareth….He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. …they crucified him; but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place…They went to the tomb early this morning but didn’t find his body…” Jesus began explaining ‘what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.

As they approached the village to which they were going,… they urged him strongly, “Stay with us.” So he went in to stay with them. When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him,..’ (Luke 24:13-31)

Dear friend, if you are wondering where Jesus is or why things are not turning out like you thought they should may I just encourage you: He is right there with you! It is ‘when he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. THEN their eyes were opened and they recognized him.’ God’s Word is our bread and as we sit at the table with Jesus and allow Him to feed us and we give thanks for it, our eyes are opened to His activity in our lives. His ways are always better than ours.

‘Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.’ Rev. 3:20

Are you feeding on Him and giving thanks? He promises He will never leave you nor forsake you.

Melinda Moffett GodSpa: a retreat into His presence 404-202-1397
www.Godspa631.com

My Top 10 Irritations: Well for Today Anyway

Apr25


In No Certain Order

1-Empty Milk Carton put back in the refrigerator. I want some cereal, get the bowl out, put the cereal in it, even get the spoon out then when I reach for the milk the carton it is empty. My response: I search the house for the culprit and for the hundredth time tell him how much I wanted some cereal only to find out there was no milk. Then send him to the store to get milk.

2- The car behind me beeping when the light turns green before I have had a chance to put my foot on the gas pedal. My response beep back! I know this isn’t the right thing to do but I am still working on giving grace to others. Please bear with me.

3- Waiting in the doctor’s office for 45 minutes only to go back to the room to wait another 30 minutes before the doctor comes in. I know I look pitifully sick and as if maybe I don’t have a life but really I do, so don’t hold me here for this long.

4- If I’m talking to someone on the phone and she/he is busy on the computer or doing some other fascinating thing that is more interesting than talking to me. Here’s what I think: Just tell me you need to call me back later because you have something else to do now or better yet just let the phone go to voicemail and I’ll leave a message. You can call me back later when you have time to carry on a conversation with me. This lets me know I’m almost as important as that television show you have poured yourself into. I promise to do the same for you.

5- If I have eaten healthy all week, drank water, even exercised a few times, I mean really made an effort don’t have the nerve to tell me I haven’t lost any weight! My response may be to pick you up and break you the next time I stand on you Mr. Scale.

6- When I go to a restaurant and receive my order incomplete, please complete it before I finish the rest of my meal. I came there hungry and I would wait but I can’t so I take a bite here and a bite there, then my food is gone before I know it. It would have been better with the broccolli. My response: the tip would have been 20%. Sorry still learning that grace thing.

7- If you tell me you are going to do something I just want you to do it, unless you are gravely sick or something. I get my hopes up (when will I learn) and then I get let down. That’s what I get for putting my hope in mankind huh? Really though shouldn’t I be able to have expectations of some people? If you’ll come through for me, I’ll come through for you if it is at all possible.. Well I usually try to come through anyway.

8- A recent irritation is that Lola eats everything in sight. Vacuum cleaner bags, the molding around the windows, food from the pantry, stuffing out of a pillow…. The most aggravating thing is that she eats my books! My books, my prized possessions, the covers are torn off, pages ripped out etc. Yes I have taken precautions and began putting them up higher, and building blockades around the bottom shelves. However this a new thing for her. Anybody got any ideas why she had begun doing this all of a sudden? My response is to be angry and walk around talking to myself about how mad I am about what my dog is doing to me.

9- I don’t like it when someone has to be right all the time. It’s so sad when a person can’t just except that he/she can be wrrrrrrong sometimes. My response to this: I will have my opinion but I will be tactful about giving it. There are times I will let you believe you are right when I don’t feel like a debate, but inside I still know you are wrong.

10- I’m not too happy when my blog posts don’t get any comments. I know people just read and not many comment but this bothers me. I want to know what people think. I like to discuss, debate, and converse. I had a post get over 1500 reads over at My Ex-Life BlogHer one time and not one comment. Now really I had to wonder is this post any good? Why are they reading it? If it’s good why aren’t they commenting? My response: I will comment on your posts when I enjoy it, when it causes me to think, when I agree or disagree, just because I like to get to know others in the bloggy world.

Sounds like I’m in a bad mood today, huh? Not really just wanted to get some stuff out on “paper”.

What is one thing that irritates you?

Survivor:Matt's Testimony About God Has An Impact

Apr28

Survivor was not quite so interesting tonight as last week. Phillip found his swim trunks thanks to a vision he received from his grandfather. (eyes rolling back in head)

On Redemption Island Matt seems to be having a hard time and begins to cry as he prays. He says he’ll stay if it’s God’s will but if not he’s ready to leave. I guess after 21 days on Redemption he is getting weary.

Julie and Mike have joined him and it seems his faith has made an impact on Julie. After the challenge between the three she lost and was sent to join David on the jury. Before she left she shared that she was trying to win to get her house out of foreclosure and to make a better life for her kids. It was refreshing for me to hear that Matt’s testimony of God’s work in his life had helped her in some way. Julie said when she gets back she’ll begin looking for a church.

Jeff said after Matt’s win that maybe God wasn’t finished with him yet and he agreed with a smile. Many have ridiculed Matt for praying and talking so much about God’s will for his life but a relationship with the Lord is a daily thing and it involves letting Him be involved in everything, even Survivor.

When everyone got back to camp Andrea expressed that she felt sorry for Matt. She felt guilty for being a part of putting him on RI. Well no doubt this did not set well with Rob and Andrea was next on his hit list.

At the immunity challenge Grant won along with a reward of a giant chocolate cake which he shared with Rob and Andrea. They were given a box after the challenge and told this would add a twist to the game.

Back at camp again Rob instructed his puppets how to vote. Andrea needed to go but Ralph would go first, in the event the ‘twist” was to vote someone else off it would be Andrea. Then he found out Steve attempted to turn his own team members against him so Rob decided it would be Steve.

So off to tribal council they went. Ralph was first , then sure enough after another immunity challenge, which Rob won, Steve was voted off. They both joined Matt on Redemption Island.

I’m still hoping it will come down to Matt and Rob. Come on somebody tell me what you think.

Hugs from Me To Few Of My Friends

Apr29

I’m so relieved that I have a chance to experience life differently than I ever have before. I love my life right now the way it is. Of course there are things that cause stress, a little anxiety and occasional sadness but I’m at a place of contentment.

This morning just for a second I felt just a tiny bit guilty that I was happy and blessed. I said to God,” With all the unhappiness around me, tornado devastation, friends in pain, sickness, why do I feel joy? Shouldn’t I be down and out?” So I thought well I guess it’s not right to have so much joy today and I’ll tone it down. I do hurt for people, my compassion level is out the roof, but today my heart feels happy.

Then of course He spoke, not verbally but “heartily”, ” You go on and be happy, I came to give you abundant life here, today, and I want you to live in that now. Don’t feel guilty for having the joy that I give you. Take it and give it to others.” I gave Him a “heartily” hug and He gave me mine so I’m off for the day.

Special joy and hugs going out to a few of my friends today: Amy from American Christian, Dee, Nancy, Kristi-lightfromthehill, Sherry- sis, Pam L, Jennifer J., Barbara, Michelle, Mary, Melinda and Beth- GodSpa, Debi- 24atheart, Pam M,Teri, and my girls at Christian Women’s Center- I love you. I hope you’ll all take these hugs and some of this joy and pass it along

Never Too Old To Say "I Do"

May2

Wedding cake made from scratch by my neice Irene.

Yesterday my father-in-law got married. He and his bride, both in their 70’s, held hands and promised to love each other until death do them part. The pastor said something during the ceremony I really related to, “God is a God of second chances.” My father-in-law and his new wife have been given another chance to live the rest of their lives happily ever after. I am thankful they have each other. No one needs to be alone.

One of my selfish prayers for myself is that I be given the chance to grow old with The Train. I have visions of us playing with our grandchildren, traveling together, and watching our favorite shows til we are in our 90’s. Oh what a special blessing it would be if God would grant this prayer.

I anticipated this wedding to be hard emotionally on the family and it was on some. We all miss my precious mother-in-law so much. I guess at first in a way it felt like she was being replaced but it wasn’t like that at all when the time actually came. The day was full of joy, laughter, smiles, hugs, reminiscing, good food, love, pictures and wonderful memories. God took care of everything and everybody.

I met new relatives and got to see visiting relatives, specifically my nephew and his beautiful wife and kids. The Train’s family is my family as I have been a part of them for 32 years and I love them more every day. His mother was my “Naomi”. I truly would have followed her anywhere just as Ruth did in the story from the Bible. My father-in-law has helped to fill the emptiness I felt from the loss of my dad. God provides everything we need when we depend on Him to do it.

A funny thing was going on during the ceremony unbeknownst to those of us watching. My father-in-law has a hard time standing for long periods of time and the pastor was getting a little long winded. Dad started to wobble from front to back and The Train, who was standing behind him, had to lean in and let his dad rest against his stomach. Try to picture this now. Well it’s funny to me…

I read a blog by an expert blogger. He said readers aren’t interested in the blogger so don’t write about yourself. Sorry I just broke that rule. Hope it didn’t bore you too much.

Anyway, have you been given a second chance at life? Care to share?

There's A Reason I Like Reality Television

May3

Okay so I’m a reality TV fanatic. I’ve tried to figure this one out and all I can come up with is that i like real life more than something fake. However I do still watch Days Of Our Lives because a 40 year habit is hard to break.

My reality Tv schedule begins on Monday with Dancing With The Stars. This season I am rooting for the Karate Kid Ralph Macchio or Kirstie Alley. I like them both because they are older than I am and I would never get up there and attempt what they are doing. Kudos to the old folks, and they are some of the best in the competition.

Tuesday is the DWTS vote off and as of last week I have added The Voice to this night of bliss. This is a great show with some of the best singing mentors of the last 10 years. They keep their backs to the contestants while the person sings, and if they want to coach the singer they turn their chairs around. It gets exciting when the chairs start turning and heartbreaking when they don’t. The contestant chooses the coach he/she wants to work with and joins the team. There will be more to the show than this so tune in if you’re in to this kind of thing.

Wednesday The Train and I settle down by 8:30 to start our favorite Survivor Redemption Island. If you read my blog you know I have a grudge against Boston Rob and truly hope Matt Elrod gets off Redemption Island to beat him in the end. I predict Matt will win one million dollars.

Also on Wednesday comes American Idol for my viewing pleasure. The Train rarely watches this anymore. Singing just isn’t his thing, whether he’s watching it or trying to hum a few bars himself. So I tune in alone for this one. I am torn between Lauren and James as my pick for the winner of this competition. I love Lauren because she’s a Southern Belle from Georgia and a great 16 year old country singer. James is an awesome rocker with talent to be compared to Steven Tyler himself. In fact Steven promised to do a duet with James if he wins. James is a fav for a few reasons, first he has mad crazy skills (says Randy) I agree, he is a father of a sweet little boy and he has Torrets Syndrome. When he sings you’d never know he has Torrets, not one sign of it. This reality show is on fire even without Simon and encourages the contestants to improve at every level, no snide, crude remarks.

Thursday night brings the vote off on American Idol. I hate this night because I like every contestant. Each one brings something unique to the stage. I’d have a hard time voting any of them off and it’s hard to see any one of them leave.
Yes I get attached to the people on these shows.

Why do I like reality TV? I’m a people person. I love to see real life. Watching people live and how they handle things interest me. I like to feel with them. Does that make sense? I love to laugh, cry and celebrate with them whether on TV or in person. People are important to me.

Well I don’t have anything in the way of Reality television Friday – Sunday. Any suggestions?

Hey don’t forget I have another blog that might encourage you Grace Full Women. Come on by and just try it, and if you like it go ahead and subscribe.

Survivor May 4th: Mike "Loves His Neighbors"

May5

Love from home showed up on video tonight. As each one listened to the message from their loved one the tears were plentiful.

Back on Redemption Island matt, Mike, Ralph and Steve also watched videos of their family members. The winner of the duel would win time with his loved one. After a game of toss the bag/break the tile Mike came out the champ. His mother came out of the trees but only came part way. He was given a choice to 1- let Matt and Ralph have time with their loved ones and forfeit his own 2- give the Ometepe tribe time with their loved ones and give up his own with his mother and forfeit Matt and Ralph’s special moments with their visitors.

You’ll never guess what he chose? Yep, he gave the Backstabber/Blindsider Tribe the reward. His reasoning behind such a sacrifice was that he had read the Bible that day and Jesus said love your neighbor as yourself. So he “loved” his enemy by giving them this reward. Wow, what a guy!

Later as he, Matt and Ralph went back to R.I. his two island mates agreed they could not have done such a nice thing for the people who had treated them so badly. Ralph eluded that Mike did it to get votes for the jury should he make it to the end. Mike said God told him to do it and that it was not a strategic move but if it helped in the end that was good.

Of course The Train in all his compassion thinks Mike is an idiot. And just a few minutes before he was rooting for him to win the duel, now he hopes he loses. The Train sees this move as a huge mistake that will probably not pay off at the end and I think I agree, but you never know.

At the immunity challenge Rob won again for the second week in a row, but at the end he was physically exhausted to the point of needing help to stand up.

Back at the camp Phillip starts his craziness again but says to the camera that he has to do this once in a while to keep the tribe convinced he could not win if he went to the end. I’m not so sure he is not truly just a little off but we’ll see soon enough.

During tribal council Phillip boasted that when he was in the army over 1500 men could never out do him in anything. He also said that the tribe viewed him as “the Senior Statesman”. Ok, if you say so Phillip, but I saw them rolling their eyes as you made this statement.

In the end Andrea was blindsided and voted off much to her complete surprise, as she had just stated that she believed she was safe. I really was trying to squeeze out a tear on her behalf but I just couldn’t. Unfortunately after she betrayed Matt twice I just don’t favor her too much. So off she went to R.I. We’ll see how she and Matt get along next week. Will they rekindle their romance or will Matt keep his brains?

Julie also writes about God’s love and grace that changed her life. Grace Full Women

We Southerners Have A Need to Feed… Everybody!

May5

Here in the south we feed people. A lot. We feed people when a loved one passes on, when a loved one is in the hospital or comes home from the hospital. We feed pregnant moms who need some rest, those who are caring for sick loved ones, and small children. We feed people before church, after church, and during Sunday School. If we get together for any reason the first thing we do is plan the menu and have everybody sign up to bring something. If it’s homemade you get a great big ole star, if you go to Publix like I sometimes do, people will begin saying “Honey why don’t you just bring the ice, plates and cups.” That cut me deep, for just a minute, but once I got to the “get together” I forgot all about it. Although the “F” word came to mind a few times. Family, Friends, and Food.

When I was a little girl my family drove to Pendergrass, Georgia where we visited my Grandmother.  We affectionately referred to her as “Grandmother”  but she wasn’t an eloquent, well spoken, elite woman of the community living in a wealthy neighborhood. No not quite, she was large, barefoot most the time, usually dressed in a big baggy house dress, a few whiskers above her lip if she forgot to shave, and a lower lip full of chewing tobacco. However, she had a lap that was a perfect fit for my brother and me and we loved to snuggle with her.

When we walked in Grandmother’s home there was a table full of food. Fried chicken, biscuits, cornbread, fresh green beans, butter peas, mashed potatoes, homegrown tomatoes, and fried okra.  Until she got too sick to cook for us my grandmother made sure we ate well.

I’ve lived in Georgia for almost my entire life but have travelled a bit.  I’ve tasted delicious cuisine while in Germany  to Mexican last summer in Cancun and almost everything in between. But just as Dorothy says,”There’s no place like home.” I say,” There’s no food like down here in Georgia.”

Recipe for Southern Cornbread
Large bowl
Pour in cornmeal until it fills maybe about 2/3 of the bowl
Pour in 1 cup cooking oil. Use Crisco shortening if you want, my family always did.
Add 2 or 3 eggs and salt and pepper to taste.
Pour in some buttermilk until it’s a moist consistency like that when you are making pancakes.
Mix it all together and pour into greased black cast iron skillet that has been seasoned.
Cook for approximately 30 to 40 minutes.
Now enjoy with a good home cooked meal or crumble up in a bowl and pour some buttermilk or sweet milk over it then add a little salt and pepper. Delicious

If you want a more exact recipe read the back of the cornmeal bag.

Have you been the recipient of some good ole southern cooking? Care to share?

Guest Post by Amy Rouse: A Long Obedience in the Same Direction

May6

Welcome my special guest poster today Amy Rouse. She has two blogs American Christian, which gives a great perspective on the Christian culture here and often makes me examine my heart. Collect Yourself is her personal blog about her life and informative topics, many of which speak to women, so you’ll want to check it out. Amy has become my best blogging friend, how that happens over the internet, I don’t know, just did. You’ll find her intelligent, transparent, straight up, personal and loaded with God’s Word. Check out her blogs and enjoy her post today.

Friedrich Nietzsche wrote, “The essential thing ‘in heaven and earth’ is. . . that there should be a long obedience in the same direction; there thereby results, and has always resulted in the long run, something which has made life worth living.” I love the picture these words paint in my mind: A long and well-marked trail through God’s beautiful architecture. If I follow this path I will, somewhere up in the unforeseen distance, reach my destiny.

But that’s rarely how we experience the Christian journey, is it? We start out refreshed, renewed, determined, energized and committed to walk for however long it takes. But then we find it’s bumpy and messy and sometimes confusing. It’s dry and arid and waterless in spots, or the rain just never stops and we feel we’re drowning. And yes, sometimes, for even extended times, the walk is pleasant and uneventful. That, too, is challenging, maybe even the scariest: Life is good, why rely on God?

For many, many years I’ve stayed on the trail. But sometimes I’ve flat out quit walking. Or took off through the forest. I am a Prodigal Daughter, three times over. This is something I am very much ashamed of. (And here I am airing my dirty laundry on Julie’s blog!) But I think I can now look back and see three specific reasons why I messed up and quit following God, and I can find life lessons in them:

1. I wanted something other than God. I think this usually means wanting something God doesn’t want us to have. He knows us better than we do, BUT. WE. WANT. IT. NOW! My first departure from following Christ was to instead follow peers in high school. (Some were my long-time church friends who stopped following as well.) I wanted their approval and, as an unpopular student, that draw was irresistible. I desired the world more than I desired God.

2. I didn’t want something God wanted for me. In my early 20’s I was serving God in an unusual place. There were expectations and “rules” for conduct that were nearly stifling. This time I left because I wanted freedom from what I was afraid God would ‘make’ me do. I was afraid my obedience would make me miserable. Sounds crazy now, but this is much like the sacrificial ram jumping off the fire. Sure, we don’t want to stay in the hard places when God is refining us, but unless we learn the lesson, it’s waiting for us in our future still. I didn’t trust that God wanted only His best for me.

3. I didn’t pay attention to the things needing attention. The third and last time I stopped following was largely due to just getting lazy. I got apathetic about spiritual disciplines like reading God’s word and praying. It started slowly at first, little lapses. I thought, “I’ll catch up tomorrow.” I was on staff and in leadership at my church and got to the point where I thought I had got it all together. I became spiritually prideful. (“If you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!”) There were other factors, but regardless, soon fellowship became a ‘chore’ and selfish desires took over. The less I paid attention to my spiritual health, the more I was drawn to a worldly lifestyle. Before I knew it I wasn’t going to church any longer and you couldn’t much tell the difference between me and the next worldly girl. When you stop swimming upstream you start getting dragged downstream. I stopped following hard after God.

I am so thankful for stories in God’s word about folk who mess up (their dirty laundry not on someone’s blog but in the Bible for cryin’ out loud!) but they still go on to do great things or are called out for special recognition, recorded for all time. You know the ones: Peter who cursed and denied Jesus but Jesus called him the rock on which He’d build the church; And David, called “a man after God’s own heart,” of course we know he was an adulterer, a murderer, and a lousy dad. And finally the “real” prodigal son, who took his inheritance, squandered it, ended up eating with the pigs, then returned home hoping he could get a job as a family slave, but was instead redeemed by his dad.

I believe prodigal situations stem from what John talks about in 1 John 2:16: “For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world.” Pride is a killer. I pray I will always recognize this and my obedience to the One Who loves me more than I could ever imagine will be very long (never-ending) and very much in the same direction (never-bending).

I hope you have not experienced prodigalness, but if you have, or are, there is hope, healing and a fresh start. Or three. (Or “seventy-times-seven”!) I’m proof. (Hey, while you’re in the blog-reading-mode, check out Julie’s blog on Grace Full Women about forgiving yourself. It’s important.)

Is Mother's Day A Happy Day For You?

May7

I’m feeling a little melancholy and have been for a few days. My family keeps asking what’s bothering me but I just can’t put my finger on it. However Hound said,” I think it has something to do with Mother’s Day coming up. You always get kinda sad then.” I guess subconsciously my mind goes to a sad place without me realizing it because honestly I can’t come up with a reason I would feel down.

My moma died about 5 1/2 years ago of ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). It was a long drawn out terrible way to go. We watched her suffer and have bits and pieces of her life taken away little by little. Then in the end I had to make the decision to take her off life support. This was one of the hardest times in my life.

Giving up the woman who was my best friend and mother left me with an emptiness that I thought could never be filled. It’s like having your right arm ripped off. I spend the next 4 years trying to come to terms with the loss. Through counseling, much prayer, and allowing God to be enough for me I am finally at a point where I can move on.

Still Mother’s Day isn’t one of my most favorite days but I am learning to make it a day to be thankful for the mother I was given. To be thankful for the time I did have with her and try not to think about what could have been. She left us when she was 61 years old and sometimes I wonder what she would have thought about all the life changes our family has and is going through. But in accepting her death moving past the “what ifs” has been one of the healing factors.

Mother’s Day is special for me however because my husband and children celebrate ME! And I am humbled that they love me enough to want to make this a great day.

Is Mother’s Day a day you look forward to or is it a hard day for you?

Does "The Stuff" In Life Get To You?

May9

This Is The Stuff by Francesca Battistelli ( Best Female Vocalist 2011 at the Dove Awards). The little things in life often start my day off wrong but if I can realize that I’m so blessed even with “the stuff” in my little mess then my attitude can change everything.

I know you have 3 minutes to spare so take it and listen to a great, refreshing song, the words are also at the bottom.

I lost my keys
In the great unknown
And call me please
‘Cuz I can’t find my phone

This is the stuff that drives me crazy
This is the stuff that’s getting to me lately
In the middle of my little mess
I forget how big I’m blessed

This is the stuff that gets under my skin
But I gotta trust You know exactly what You’re doing
It might not be what I would choose
But this is the stuff You use

45 in a 35
Sirens and fines
while I’m running behind
Whoa

This is the stuff that drives me crazy
This is the stuff that’s getting to me lately
In the middle of my little mess
I forget how big I’m blessed

This is the stuff that gets under my skin
[ From: http://www.elyrics.net/read/f/francesca-battistelli-lyrics/this-is-the-stuff-lyrics.html ]
But I gotta trust You know exactly what You’re doing
It might not be what I would choose
But this is the stuff You use

So break me of impatience
Conquer my frustrations
I’ve got a new appreciation
It’s not the end of the world
Oh Oh Oh

This is the stuff that drives me crazy
This is the stuff
Someone save me
In the middle of my little mess
I forget how big I’m blessed

This is the stuff that gets under my skin
And I’ve gotta trust You know exactly what You’re doing
It might not be what I would choose
But this is the stuff You use

Oh Oh Oh Oh
This is the stuff You use

Panic Attack in My Bathroom

May11

Have you ever been alone but just felt as if you weren’t? Like someone or something was watching you? I had this experience earlier this week and I’m still traumatized from it. Only now am I able to write about it.

I was in my bathroom picking up some clothes The Train accidentally left in the floor and I had a creepy feeling come over me. As I moved from one piece of clothing to another there was just this sense that something wasn’t right. When I got to his shorts and picked them up out jumped the biggest, blackest spider I’ve ever seen! I began screaming to no avail, no one came to my rescue! I was shaking with the beginnings of a panic attack because I have a very real “spider phobia”. (Childhood spider trauma).

However I knew I had to be brave, there was no one to help me except Hound and he is as afraid of spiders as I am. I cornered the big black creepy thing beside the tub and looked around for something to kill it with. My breathing was so fast now I could hardly suck in any air…. Could I just shut the door and leave it there until The Train got home? No if I did, it would crawl into an unknown place, maybe under the seat of the toilet, and it would get me when I came back. What if it made it’s way into the bedroom and crawled in my mouth while I slept! A million scenarios went through my mind in those few seconds while I stood there, flip flop in hand, over that horrible creature.

I knew I had to hit it but my other fear was splatting it everywhere. It’s body alone was nearly as big as a dime! God help me to do this. I have to protect my family, honestly I didn’t care about the family, I had to protect myself!

A few deep breaths and down went the flip flop on top of the spider, not squishing it. I had to press down and it popped like a big ole pimple. It made me desperately sick ( nauseated now).

I had to clean up a big mess and watched as it went down the toilet as I flushed. I mean I couldn’t take a chance that the thing might still be alive even though it had no insides left.

After “the incident” I called 411, no time to find the number, and had the operator dial the number to my pest control guy. I requested an immediate trip to my house.

When my heart settled, I tried to eat lunch, no chance for I couldn’t get that horrible memory out of my mind and I was still nauseated.

I realize this sounds crazy but to those of us with phobias caused by childhood trauma it is very real. I’m laughing now, well kinda but not really, but at the time I seriously could not breath.

Do you have any phobias?

Survivor May11th- Rob Stabs His Besty in the Back

May12

Andrea shows up on Redemption with Matt, Ralph, and Mike. She pleads her case to Matt telling him why her team voted her off. He didn’t seem to fall for her cunning charm this time. Thank goodness! As much as I don’t like the way she treated Matt I also didn’t agree with the men making her sleep on the ground while they slept a little more comfy. This Georgia girl (me) is usually treated with more respect.

When the Ometepe tribe came to watch the duel Andrea began to cry when Jeff asked her if she felt betrayed by her tribe. She did. Poor thing, I wish I had some tears for her too.

During the duel Ralph lost and was sent to the jury house after 33 days of fighting to win one million dollars.

Back at camp the tribe is getting hungry and discusses that maybe they don’t have enough rice to last until the end. Phillip however thinks since some of them will be leaving in a few days there will be plenty. Then we see him in the bunk with Nat and Ash telling them they don’t need as much rice as the men so they should eat less. Of course this begins an argument. Phillip goes off on one of his tangents and the girls walk off.

Pardon me for questioning Captain Rob but why is Phillip still there? He and his faded red undies have just about worn out their welcome I think.

So Rob has made the decision to vote Ashley off when they go to tribal council. He feels she and Natalie are getting to close. Unfortunately this plan goes in the toilet when Ashley wins the challenge. Oops, who will HE choose now?

There is discussion among the tribe of sending Grant or Natalie to RI, both Rob has promised to take with him all the way to the end. Of course he’ll back stab somebody. Who gets the knife this week?

Well as much as I like the personal interviews of the contestants it really is obnoxious when Rob talks. Tonight we got the joy of listening to him boast of all the power he has over the tribe. “If I want Grant to go, he’ll go, if I want Natalie to go, she’ll go.” All this and more with a great big smile on his face.

Rob’s besty Grant gets the boot. Yep the one he is taking all the way to the end

Jeff reveals that someone will return to the tribe soon. Who will it be? I’m betting its Matt. Yes I’m still rooting for him to win especially since he didn’t fall for Andrea’s beauty and charm once again.

Still I wonder why not Phillip?

Freedom Can Be Yours!

May13

She paced the floor of the small space of the prison cell. Back and forth, wringing her hands, her heart felt as though it would come right out of her chest. It seemed more like a dream than reality. Would they really set her free today?

Lina had been incarcerated for two years on drug charges. The time she had spent behind these bars were hard, so hard in fact there were some days she didn’t want to live. Lina wasn’t like some of the women who came in claiming their ground and making a name for themselves right away, she was the one who tried to avoid them all just to stay alive.

Many nights Lina lay in her bottom bunk thinking about freedom. Remembering life with her kids in their small rental home. At the time it didn’t seem like much but oh what she wouldn’t give to be back in her own full size bed with Molly and Jake on each side of her. These bars that held her prisoner, that held her captive gave her the feeling of being stuck in a type of hell.

Lina’s story can be related to our own story before we find freedom in Christ. We are held captive by sin and death actually sentenced to hell. But when FREEDOM comes He breaks open those prison cell doors and we are free to walk right out living a life of love, no longer chained to the sin that destroys our lives.

Unfortunately many of us don’t walk out of the prison cell doors, we continue to sit on the bunk and live in our old hell. Although we are free to go and live an abundant life as Jesus tells us in John 10:10 some of us continue in defeat. We are more than conquerors, saints not sinners, righteous no longer unrighteous but we don’t have a clue.

Life as a Captive Christian is miserable. When Jesus set us free, He set us free from the chains of any sin that tries to hold us. He gives us the power to escape temptation, His Holy Spirit gives us everything we need to live a godly life. ( References below)

As Lina walked out of prison a free woman that afternoon she realized a new life was about to begin as she ran into the arms of her two children.

As you walk out of the prison you have already been freed from realize you have a new life waiting so run into the arms of the Father and live abundantly in Him.

Galatians 5:1 It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.

Romans 1:7, Galatians 5:1, 1 Corinthians 10:13, 2 Peter 1:3

Survivor May 15th part 1: Matt Is Bold, Andrea Goes

May16

In the first part of Survivor Andrea won the duel against Matt ( I am very sad), Mike, and Grant. She went back with the others and tried to get the girls to vote with her against Rob. While I had high hopes I knew in my little ole heart that they didn’t have the guts to do it. But the next best thing was to vote Andrea off which they did. Yeah!

What I did like about this epidsode was Matt boldly praising God through out. Some might think this not too “cool” but since I am also a believer I find it refreshing. He took an opportunity to give God the glory in front of millions of people which makes me proud. Many of us will not do this even in our own workplace. Thanks Matt for encouraging me to be bold in my faith.

Survivor Part 2: Harsh Words and Secrets Revealed

May16

Rob comments that he has to find a way to convince the jury to give him a million dollars even after his wife Amber won a million in another season. Well we’ll see how he handles it. Everybody can use 2 million dollars, right?

Phillip burned his faded red tightie whitey undies and said, “I never was proud to wear my plum-colored underwear.” You could have fooled me.

The final 3 face the jury and their questions.

Natalie gave her statement and basically she admitted she rode to the top on Rob’s coat tails. Mistake.

Phillip said he did the same because Rob was the Master Mind but he (Phillip) implemented the plans.

Rob talked about strategy and doing what he needed to do and playing the game and making alliances, and doing it for his family, etc. His answer was very well thought out.

Julie asks if Nat thinks her mother would be proud of the way she played the game with Rob? The if Phillip thinks his son will be proud of the way he played the game? Finally she suggested Rob teach his girls not to treat women the way he has treated the women on Survivor.

Ashley told Phillip she had no questions for him but wanted to tell him something and he need not reply, to which he retorted, “I will if I want to.”She said,” I’ve learned patience because I had to since being with you was so torturous Phillip.”

“Rob you have deceived a lot of people and I don’t know who you are.”

Andrea with look of disgust told Phillip,”You are weird. Who is the real Phillip?”
To which he replied,”I’m Phillip Shepherd.”

Ralph told Nat it seemed she couldn’t do anything for herself and asked Phillip if he really liked him.
“Yes. I like your work ethic and you are a hard worker,”

Matt’s turn. “Rob you are manipulating, deceiving, a liar, where is the line drawn? The people you betrayed are having a hard time knowing who you really are.”

Mike asked them what they had learned. Nat learned she is strong, confident and appreciated family.
Rob has learned he doesn’t want to play games anymore.
Phillip learned he can stand on his own as an outcast.

This is the most mind-blowing thing of whole night for me and The Train.
Steve came up and congratulated Nat and Rob for playing such good games. But this is what he said to Phillip, “I’m sorry for who you are, who you’ve grown into, you are shameful and a sorry man.” Now I didn’t like Phillip too much but this was completely uncalled for. I know they had words and arguments but this totally insulted the man’s character and everything personal about him. This was wrong.

David told the jury to vote for Rob and in the end they DiD! Yes Boston Rob finally won Survivor. Hooray, Hooray, now I can finally celebrate. I’m so glad he and Amber won another million.

Seriously he did play a good game. I don’t like the way he gave up all integrity to do it but that’s what it took for him to win I guess.

At the reunion it was revealed that Phillip really is a secret agent, Russell will return if asked, Matt and Andrea do not at this time have a romance going on and Grant is married now.
Who do you think won the Sprint 100,00 dollar award? Of course it was Rob!

This season’s Survivor was a great time and I look forward to the next.
What was your favorite part about this season?

Only In His Mind

Aug5

The prompt for The Red Dress Club today is to post your favorite Red Writing Hood. But my favorite is a RememRed and I hope you’ll read it anyway.

I am over at the Christian Women’s Online Network today. They have so graciously published a post i wrote a few weeks ago When the Enemy Tries To Destroy Self Esteem. I hope you’ll take a minute or two to go by and give it a read. If you like what you read go ahead and leave me some comment love or “like” it for me. Thanks friends.

This post is a response to the 5/13/2011 RemebeRED prompt at The Red Dress Club.Write about a first or (second) memory you have when you see this:

As he lay in the hospital bed I watched as he drew in a deep breath as if he was smoking a cigarette. I had seen him do this thousands of times over the years, but this was a hallucination. The pain medication had taken him to a place he loved, a place of indulgence with cigarettes, beer, and all his favorite food. His imagination took him there because he had not been allowed to go for weeks since his colon ruptured.

My father was a strong, virile man, my hero. When this awful tragedy happened I watched as he became a weak, frail man who didn’t know the world around him. And this day he was no different. He was enjoying his imaginary game so I played right along.

“Hey can you get me a chocolate milkshake?” I shook my head and said,” Are you sure about that?” He took another long draw from his Winston and said, “Oh yeah, it will feel good on my throat, I’m so thirsty.” Knowing he could not have anything pass between his lips I told a lie, something I didn’t do very often to my daddy, “Ok, next time I go to McDonald’s I’ll bring back a chocolate milkshake.” That seemed to satisfy for the moment and he replied, “Thanks sweetie and how bout gettin’ me another pack of cigarettes too?”

When I left his room that day I did not know it would be the last conversation I would have with him. The next day he was put into a drug induced coma and passed away a week later.

We found two cigarette butts in his heavy marble ashtray at home. I keep them in a Ziploc bag, in a box, in my closet, in my mind, in my heart…

How Will American Idol End Tonight?

May19

Will my all time fav Georgia Girl Lauren Alaina remain tonight after the results show? After watching her performances last night I have to say I only loved ‘I Hope You Dance’ and it was incredible. This was Randy and Jennifer’s pick for the night, with Steven going with Haley’s ‘You Oughta Know’.

Lauren was much more confident I believe after taking super star Beyoncé’s advice about doing some self-talk before going on stage. She was beautiful in her teal blue to the floor dress as she sang the song of the night.

Scotty was impressive in every song he sang, but ‘She Believes In Me’ an oldie by Kenny Rogers, was a show stopper for me. He performed the song in his own style and brought it up to date. I can hear his recording of it on the radio now.

Haley sang Stevie Nicks ‘Rhiannon’ and her stage presence was great because a wind machine was blowing her dress and hair, the atmosphere was dark and mysterious so it was interesting. It was an ok performance. I liked ‘You Oughta Know’ better and her raspiness really came out at the end.

Of course I prefer Haley go home, Lauren and Scotty have been my picks from the first time I saw them try out. I am honestly shocked two of the youngest contestants have come this far.

I want Haley to go home but because the votes will be split for the country vote I don’t know if she will or not. She’s a great singer but not my fave.

So what do you think? Haley, Scotty or Lauren leaving.

Lazyboy, Lola and My Laptop

May20

This was written from a prompt given by The Red Dress Club  about Slothfulness.

Although I look around and see all that needs to be done I continue to sit here in this chair, this big, brown, leather Lazyboy. Beside me is my companion Lola, a 53 pound English Bulldog, and resting comfortably on my wrapped up legs is my link to the world, my laptop. The three of us are best pals. We spend many hours together here in the Lazyboy with a cup of coffee, diet coke and a variety of snacks. The thoughts come freely here and flow from mind and heart to fingers. God is here too. I talk, He listens and then He talks and I listen.

The dishes need to be washed, laundry is waiting to be folded, closets are calling to be organized, and worn baseboards need to be touched up, but I keep sitting here in the Lazyboy.

My body molds so well and Lola does too, just perfect right up against my leg. My lower back doesn’t hurt right now, and the lighting is great here in this space created just for me. I am kept warm by my mother’s blue and white cotton  blanket. It’s a bit worn now but that makes it all the more precious. I find it’s like having a piece of her right here with me, wrapping me up in her love, such sweet memories.  These things keep me coming back to this place I love.

Maybe you’d call this slothful, and it is by definition. But I call it comforting, inviting, rewarding and restful. My time in the Lazyboy with Lola and my laptop is time I wouldn’t trade for any pile of dishes, load of laundry or day of painting baseboards.

However, I do live in reality and I am aware The Train will be home by 6:00pm. By that time the Lazyboy will be empty, Lola will be in her dog bed asleep again, laptop will be sleeping also and I will be making SOMETHING? for dinner.

Georgia On My Mind

May24

This post was happily written from a prompt given to us by The Red Dress Club. We were asked to mine for memories and write about games we played when we were younger. Here goes.

The 70’s was a good time to grow up in our quaint little
Georgia town. The word neighbor meant friend and community truly existed among the people.

Every afternoon me, my brother and the neighborhood kids walked home from the bus stop, did our homework then headed outside to play kickball. We set up the bases around the
cul-de-sac and chose teams. Then the game was on!

During the summer our games lasted until after dark so we played by the light of the street lamp in the cul-de-sac.  Who cared if the mosquitos ate us alive? We kept going stopping only for bathroom and Kool-Aid breaks.  KC and the Sunshine Band, Fleetwood Mac, Donna Summer, The Commodores, and Aerosmith kept us company as we played into the night.

Those Georgia nights are forever engrained in my mind. I can
smell the honeysuckles and taste their nectar. I see the lightening bugs
brightening the night. I hear the crickets chirping loudly and the kids
yelling, “Run, go, go, to second!” Memories like these so vivid and clear
remind me that there’s no place like home. And I am thankful once again
to still live in the gorgeous state of Georgia.

I Predict American Idol Winner

May25

I’m just gonna say I TOLD YOU SO! Back in one of the very first blog post I wrote about American Idol this year I predicted Lauren Alaina would win this season. See for yourself here.

From the first time she auditioned I agreed with Steven when he said he thought she was the American Idol. Well we’ll see tomorrow night but if I could make a dollar bet with you I would.

Jimmy worked with her on the last song, which will be the song she records if she wins, “Like My Mother Does.”  And an excellent choice it was. It certainly wrapped it up when Lauren went down to her mother and hugged her, mom crying, Lauren crying and Jennifer practically handing her the win. Jennifer’s comment,” with that song you may have just won.” This is exactly what I told the The Train before the words came out of Jennifer’s mouth.

Be sure and go back and read the other article I wrote at the beginning of the season on Blogher’s site. You’ll see I should be a judge and you should come back and read my accurate reviews next go around.

I love Lauren for her talent, humble heart, cute little dance, nervous habits, and Georgianess. I predict she wins tomorrow night. What do you think?

I Never Left Her

May26

I wrote this as a prompt from The Red Dress
Club. Write a short piece 600 words or
less beginning with This was absolutely
the last time and ending with She was


wrong.

 

 

This was absolutely the last time I would pick her up. I tell myself this every time.  My stomach knotted up the instant I saw her name come across my phone.

She was stranded at a drugstore in Atlanta. I don’t usually drive in Atlanta because it makes me nervous, so many one way streets and people standing on the street corners. Could I call her back and tell her I was lost and just not go this time?

My old 2002 Taurus was on its last leg but it was my only mode of transportation. After getting in I realized there was very little gas. Pumping gas for 3.98 a gallon put a sour taste in my mouth
knowing I was about to waste it driving to Atlanta to pick her up again. I thought about telling her she’d have to pay me for the gas but I knew my sister had already spent her entire, measly little paycheck.

Lina was standing by the doorway of the Eckerd’s smoking a cigarette when I pulled up. I waited in the car and thought she’d come get in but she just stood there in a daze. Getting out of the car frightened me, especially in this part of town, but I did. She offered me a cigarette which I happily took. Somehow a cigarette comforts me, calms the nerves.

“You know you didn’t have to come.”

“Then why did you call?”

“There’s nobody else.”

“What happened to Jared? Isn’t he still living with you?”

“He left me Tuesday. Said he couldn’t stay with me like this anymore.”

We stood outside the Eckerd until they locked the doors a few minutes later.

“You ready to go now. I have to get home and get ready for work.”

“I can’t go home. I can’t be alone. I don’t want to be like this anymore.” It sounded as if those words were choking her.

At that point Lina began sobbing. She sat down on the curb and put her face in her hands and cried like I’d never seen her cry. It was as if I was looking at a small, frail, lost child that didn’t know how to get home. Then she said something that broke my heart but gave me hope. “I need help with this. My life sucks. Everybody leaves me. Jared, Cindy, Mom, Dad, you.”

This was the first time she had admitted she needed help, that there was a problem. Until now.

She was so right, she desperately needed help. However I never left her, I was always, have always been there. Maybe not in a physical way because there came a time I had to give her tough love. But I have been with her every day, sometimes every minute, with my thoughts, my tears, my
love and my prayers. Waiting to hear those words. But to say I was one of those who had left her, well she was wrong.

This short story is fiction. I do not have a sister but if I did this would probably be the way I’d respond in this situation.

I'm In California

May30

I’m in California visiting my sister-in-law and her husband. I’ve been here since about 12:30 pm and already have had a great time. First thing off the plane we went to a Cajun festival in Simi Valley where we met up with some of their friends. The festival was filled with music, food and booths with lots of stuff calling my name. The thing that called the loudest was a funnel cake, which I answered ever so quickly and enjoyed every bite.

The Train did not come with me on this trip. He had to work but he sent me because he knew how much I’ve wanted to get away from things. While at the airport he even upgraded my ticket to first class. My baby loves me and I love him more than he will ever know.

Right now I am in their RV writing this blog while they are inside a friend’s house in the hot tub. I am just too tired to do anything else so I’m about to call it a night.

California is a beautiful state. The weather is in the 60′s and the mountainous view is gorgeous. I’ll be checking out Venice Beach tomorrow and the stars walk of fame. Pictures to come later.

I need to give you some sort of something to think about right? Well how about this? I flew on a plane for the first time today by myself and then found my way to baggage claim. Sounds easy to you doesn’t it? For me this is a great big step of confidence in myself and God. Myself for believing I could find my way alone and God for believing He was faithful to get me to where I was going.

I’ve not been away from The Train this long in 28 years. I am kind of nervous about that. What will he do without me?! I guess he’ll survive while I try to make it here with two of my favorite folks.

How are you spreading your wings and flying? What have you done lately in confidence?

Me and Kevin Costner

Jun1

Still here in California so I’ll tell you about our adventures from yesterday.

We went to  the Chinese Grauman Theater and saw the hand and foot prints of the stars. Of course I had to lay down next to Kevin Costner’s square and have my pic taken. Well a Georgia girl can dream can’t she? It’s the closest I’ll ever get to him.

Lunch was awesome at Hard Rock Cafe. Had the best salad and saw lots of memorabilia.

Then we drove through Rodeo Drive and Beverly Hills. Did not see one movie star! I really had hoped to meet one so I could show my talent and maybe become a star too. The Train really wants to retire early and my thought is/was that if I could meet with a star they would have to recognize my star quality and put me in a reality show. I love reality TV. We’d call it  Adventures of A Georgia Girl.

Then we went back to the mansion and spent the night. My brother-in-law’s mother lives here in the mansion and she was so gracious to me. I’ll send pics of the mansion soon.

Alas we are going too my in-laws house in Lake Arrowhead where I will spend my last few days of vacation. I’m really looking forward to it.

Also the weather is fantastic here. It’s been in the high 60′s so I’ve been able to wear jeans everyday. No humidity here like in Georgia. Ideal place for us to retire.

So what do I want you to think about this day? If you could meet a star who would it be? Comment below and let us all know.

Absence Makes The Heart Grow Fonder

Jun4

Absence does make the heart grow fonder. Loving this place but missing my hubby, kids and dogs. I heard from the Hound yesterday at 5:15am. California is 3 hours behind Georgia. We talked for a few minutes and I fell asleep again. Today the Fox began texting at 7:15am I was still asleep, I’ll remind you that California is 3 hours behind Georgia. We texted for what seemed like and hour, but it was such great fun I hardly noticed. No seriously I love to talk to my children any time morning, noon or night, sunrise,etc.

Got word today that Lola misses me very much. When my bedroom door is opened she runs to one side of the bed jumps up to see if I’m there then to the other looking for me there. Poor baby leaves the room, head hanging, jaws drooping, practically hysterically howling.

I talked with the Train tonight and asked what he had for dinner he said in such great despair,”Pizza.” I promised to cook pork chops when I get home. Perked him up a bit.

Truth is I am surprised they have survived  this week. But they did really well without me. Is that a good thing?

The Star Chart

Jun7

The prompt for this week from The Red Dress Club is to dig to find what from your childhood you still know by heart.

 

 

 

As a little girl I went to church with my mom and brother. Daddy never went because he said he’d be a hypocrite if he did. I didn’t  understand what he meant by that then but I get it now. I only wish I could have had the chance to tell him the church is full of hypocrites and he would have fit in perfectly. Anyway, we attended a small Methodist church almost every Sunday morning.

My favorite part of the day was Sunday School because I knew there was a reward coming if I had done all the “right” things during the week. Our teacher Mrs. Cowan gave us stars for Bible reading and memorization, prayer, bringing our Bibles to church and attending class. The star chart hung on the wall for all to see and I made sure I had as many stars as all the others.

Bible verse memorization was a biggy to Mrs. Cowan and sometimes if  the passage we memorized was a long one we received 2 stars! I wanted 2 stars very badly. Somehow I think the need to be number one on the star chart relates to my need to please everyone. But I’ll leave that for another post on another day.

The day came when we were all to recite Psalm 23, all of it! I had studied and studied until I knew every word. As I sat in my seat waiting  for my turn I became nervous, thinking I might forget the words. This would not be acceptable, I had to get this right, after all I needed those 2 stars to keep up with my friend and competitor Tammy.

My time came to stand before the class and recite the verses: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want, He maketh me lie down in green pastures, He leadeth me besides still waters …. I can only remember making one mistake and Mrs. Cowan helped me over the hump. How proud I was that day as I walked over to the chart and placed 2 new stars beside my name.

Over the years Psalm 23 has been a comfort to me in many situations as it has remained in my mind and heart. I thank my Sunday School teacher from all those years ago for seeing to it that I hid God’s Word in my heart. I’m sure she knew that in my life those verses would help me through many tough times.

Today I teach women’s Bible studies and find it a privilege to encourage them to memorize Scripture so that in those tough times they can find comfort in the words of God.

In The Eye Of The Beholder

Jun11

I love to photograph  objects, cities and people and mindless stuff. Old barns, old doors, street lamps, fields, cupcakes, my dog and a variety of other things. Today I’ll just share a bit of my imagination with you and see if you can see what I see… Share with me what you do see in it if anything.

Somewhere between Hollywood and Beverly Hills

Gate at my neice's home.

Utility pole with old fashioned globes.

All copyrights to photographs are held by Julie Moore On Life and may be used with permission. Contact julieemoore@bellsouth.net.

In The Eye Of The Beholder Part 2

Jun12

I snapped this as we drove down some street in L. A.

 

 

 

 

 

 

View on the way up the mountain to Lake Arrowhead.

 

View of the valley from about halfway up the mountain.

 

Just a little bit of my view from where I was standing.

It blows my mind at how after seeing something as beautiful, vast and amazing as these mountains someone could question if God exist. Really?

Say Now What Might Not Get Said Later

Jun13
Here is the prompt we were given from The Red Dress Club  RemembRed memoir.
This week we would like you to write about how the show of affection has played a part in your memory. Choose a time when either the abundance or lack of affection (either by you or someone else) stands out, and show us.  Bring us to that time.  Help us feel what you felt.
He was tall, dark and handsome and I thought he hung the moon. It would have surprised me to find out he actually didn’t because there wasn’t anything my father couldn’t do.
My mother, brother and I didn’t see him much because he worked two jobs most the time but when he was there we made the most of it. Our family ate dinner together, watched Little House On The Prairie, Carol Burnett and Andy Griffith every week, we hugged, and said “I love you”.
My mother tucked me and my little brother in every night. We said our prayers, kissed her and she told us how much she loved us. Daddy came in later too and there would be no “sweet dreams” for this little girl unless her daddy said so right before the lights went out.
4:00 am came early and Daddy had to get his day started in order to work both jobs. He was as quiet as a mouse as he crept around the house getting ready. But before he left he opened my door and slipped in. He kissed my forehead and said, “I love you sweetheart, see you tonight.”
“Bye Daddy. Love you too.”
I closed my eyes and drifted back to sleep as my father went off to work at the car manufacturer for hours and then to pump gas at the filling station. He worked this second job one year so I could attend kindergarten. It wasn’t free back in 1969.
Every morning of my childhood life I got that kiss and those words. After I grew up and moved out on my own I still heard those words every time I spoke to my Daddy. I don’t hear them anymore because he slipped away to heaven in 1999 but I will forever hold them in my heart.
Growing up with love and affection displayed openly helped me be able to do the same. My husband and children never, if at all possible, go to bed without hearing how much I love them. Before we leave the house everyone gives the “I love yous” all around.
It may seem flippant and careless to some to use the words so easily but my Daddy said, ” What if I left and never saw you again? I want you to know I love you.” I feel the same. Say now what might not get said later.

Most Embarrassing Moment in Church

Jun17

As I got ready for church I looked in the mirror and thought, “Well you’re lookin’ pretty good ole gal.”  Beautiful? Maybe not, pretty, yeah, I’ll settle for that. My black and white paisley skirt, black shirt and silver belt were looking sharp on my 5’2 and one half inch body. I looked as slim as pudgy
could get, which is what I strive for with every outfit I put on my body.

Once at church I went to Lifegroup, that’s the new word for Sunday School, and then stopped off by the restroom.  As I stood at the sink checking to make sure I still looked “pretty”, a few friends came in and we talked a few moments. One of those sweet ladies was an avid reader of my blog and she told me how much she enjoyed my posts. Ahh this was a good day so far….

As I sauntered toward the sanctuary passing a multitude of people (male and female) in the
hallway, confidence and joy exuded from me. It had been a great morning with study, family, and friends and I looked forward to a good sermon from the pastor.

But you know how it feels when you know someone is watching you? I kinda felt this way so I began adjusting my black shirt and as I walked a little further I noticed my leg felt strange. Cold,
drafty… I reached around to the back of my leg and discovered to my horror my skirt was caught up in my panties! Well, all I could do at that point was pull it out and keep going.  As much as I
wanted to I did not look back to see who might have seen my pink panties, my upper thigh and whatever else was hanging out back there.

Once seated in the huge sanctuary of a few thousand my mind began to race.

1-Who could have seen my display?

2-Why didn’t my friends in the bathroom notice? Or did they…?  Were they really my friends?!

3- Thank goodness I decided not to wear my full Spanx underwear.

4- Thank goodness I don’t wear thongs. It might have terrified the whole crowd.

5- Why didn’t anyone tell me my skirt was neatly tucked in my underwear as I made my way down the hall?

I really didn’t hear too much of the first part of the service. Actually I felt a little self-conscious wondering who, if anybody seated around me saw my butt. Off and on throughout the service my
thoughts went back to this “mishap”. I hurriedly left the church after the service. There was no sauntering; no confidence, no joy, no feeling pretty, and the thought did run through my mind, “Pride comes before a fall, in my case pride comes before a “tuck”.

Written for a prompt from The Red Dress Club. Show us how physical beauty can open doors or close them.  How can it make a positive or negative  impact?

Hey stop by my other blog Gracefullwomen and read my newest post What Do Women Want. Don’t you want to know?

What Do Men Want?

Jun20

I heard a sermon yesterday on my way to church. The pastor was listing things men needed to help them be the best they could be. I certainly agreed with him on most everything so I thought I’d share. There aren’t many men who read my blog but women if you can add to this list please comment, maybe we can write a book. What Do Men Really Want?

1- Men want real food. However they need the healthy stuff like salad, baked chicken and fish, broccoli and lots of water. Today the Train and I will begin our path to eating the healthy stuff. Yesterday we stuffed ourselves on the real stuff, donuts, barbecued ribs and snacks til we went to bed. We love us some REAL FOOD but it’s time to get on the track to a longer, healthier life.

2- Men want recreation. Football, fishing, hunting, computer or video games, etc. Guess what? They need it too! My philosophy is let him do one of these things cause he could be doing something much worse. I did not say his recreation should take every spare minute he has but he needs time to himself just like you do.

3- Men want respect. And as much as he wants it he needs it too. The Bible even tells us in Ephesians to respect our husbands. Obviously it’s something ingrained in them that makes them whole. A man who doesn’t get respect feels taken for granted and used. (Later this week, “How To Respect A Man.”)

4- Men Want To Be Encouraged. You probably won’t find too many men that will admit to needing this but deep down they do. Encourage how? Ask him to do something for you (I am keeping my mouth shut on this one) then tell him what a good job he did. Example: My hubby washed the dishes and put them away. After I woke up from my fainting spell I saw he had not put things in the right spot. I would have never told him he did it incorrectly, no I praised and thanked him. (Another thing, if you ever expect to get him to do anything else like that, don’t criticize.) Also
for encouragement, tell him he’s strong, good-looking, has a nice butt, love his nose, his muscles or notice his haircut.

5- Men want  ”intimacy”. Actually they need it. It really is a fact cause I asked my hubbyand there are huge statistics that say the same. Men think about it most the time in one way or the other. The Bible also tells us not to withhold intimacy from each other within a marriage unless we are taking time away to pray and agree together to do it. ( I may also right a blog from a woman’s point of view on this subject, because it’s a bit different from a guy’s thinking.)

6- Men want companionship. Ok maybe some of them don’t want it but they need it. He needs the togetherness with a good woman who loves and supports him. She can make him stronger and more effective in life as a husband and father and even on the job. He just needs to let her in to that deeper place he’s kept hidden. Opening up to his woman can open doors to
refreshing, rebuilding, and reviving their relationship.

If a man wants a woman who will walk around the world for him all he has to do is be honest about who he is and what he wants, love, support and respect her, and be a good father to their kids. It really is not all that hard guys. ( tiny bit of joking here)

7- Men want to be appreciated. Thank him for being the provider for your family or helping you provide. Think about the positive instead of the negative. Thank him for cutting the grass, for reading the kids a story, for going to church with you. There are a multitude of things you can thank your man for. On the Father’s Day card I bought The Train it said thanks for being my partner and friend and for making me happy. He needs to know how you feel even if he’s not able to share his feelings as well as you. You might just teach him a thing or two.

8- Men want God. They may not know it but God created the heart with a keyhole in it. The key is God’s Son Jesus. When he lets Jesus open his heart his life will change. A man of God can change his world, his family and his marriage into something amazing.

Well there you have my little list of what a man wants. What do you have to add?

Christian Women's Online Net. Publishes My Article Today!

Jun21

Hey I am posting over at Christian Women Online Network today! My article is What Do Women Want? and it’s on the front page! I am so excited to be given this opportunity. I hope you’ll show me some love and pop over and leave comment too, you know how I love ‘em! Yes I am using a lot of exclamation points but I really am excited and this is the only way you’ll know that!

You’ve got to stop by and find out what’s going on! You probably already know what women want but come on by and check out my spin on things.  This website is great with many other blogs ( I have one called Juliemooreonlife), forums, articles and resources. Check it out and I’d love it if you’d post the link to your Facebook too.

Have a wonderful day and check out my blogroll today. I got lots of wonderful blogger friends and I know you’ll enjoy reading what they have to say.

Can You See The Beauty?

Jun23

Church in Hollywood

I took this in Hollywood. Look at the detail! It is an amazing church. I love to photograph churches. You should see my collection, it grows every year.

This may not be of interest to you but life is full of detail and beauty that I think we walk right by it every day. We are a busy society with all our modern conveniences and those keep us from taking the time to really look at the beauty of the world.

I’m in love with architecture. That’s the reason I photograph buildings old and new. Just look at the beauty of the architecture of this church, it is masterful.

Have a wonderful day and look for the beauty  before you.

Some Sort Of Security

Jun24

This is a prompt from the Red Dress Club. Write a flash fiction
piece 300 words or less inspired by the word Life.

This is part of Lina’s story before she went to prison. You
can read more of Lina’s story at I Never Left Her, Prison Cell From Hell,  Normal Is A Good Thing

Why did I buy that stupid pack of cigarettes? I won’t smoke them. Hopefully. They’re like some sort of security, I guess. Just in case I get nervous if my lawyer tells me something I don’t want to hear I’ll have them. Anyway I like the way a cigarette feels between my fingers, between my lips, and the taste brings back old memories. I’ll take them with me and keep the pack in the glove compartment of my sister’s Taurus.

At 15 years old my people-pleasing-self began smoking with my boyfriend. He taught me how to inhale and I sucked down the nicotine for years until I got pregnant with Ben. I wanted my first child to have a healthy start in life and somehow cigarettes just didn’t seem like the way to go.

After that it was quit, start, quit, start and the monster won almost every time. But this time I had been on the wagon over a year, yet here I sat with Lynn knowing after this meeting was over I could and probably would have a Marlboro Light to ease my nerves. I’m on my way to prison anyway what’s it gonna hurt?

What about Ben and Lacey and my dreams of happy, healthy lives for them? It began
to fade.  I pictured me blowing smoke out the window of the car while they rode in the back seat. The toxins billowing behind me up their tiny nostrils. They seemed content but how was that contributing to the dream? Actually I was helping to destroy it. Instead of giving them life I was taking it from them.

Walking out of the lawyer’s office, Lynn’s arm around me, I felt the walls closing in, literally. My lawyer  gave me heartbreaking news.

I needed some sort of security to help get me through.  The glove compartment door fell open and I was truly thankful my sister had gotten rid of the pack of Marlboros.

Momma Memories

Jun27

I just read a wonderful post by a new bloggy friend at Coming East called Crossing the Bar. It so touched my heart and brought chill bumps to my arms. Today is her sister’s birthday and she wrote a beautiful tribute to Karen. This brought back memories of my precious mother. Oh how I miss her today and every day. She died too young at 62 years of age and I feel she never got to experience a full life here on this earth.

My mom was widowed for several years before she felt like going on with her life. So she rented a small loft in a nearby town in 2003  She was so proud of the little place and spent much time shopping for just the right accessories for decoration. The place was a quaint space and I loved to visit.

About six months after moving in she received the news she had ALS better known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Because the disease was terminal with no known cure she chose to leave the sweet little loft and move in with me. The new life she thought she was about to begin took on a very different spin, a down hill spin that would be awful.

In the great scheme of things I suppose there is a reason for everything but somehow I can’t help but wish she had gotten to keep the loft and live happily ever after. My mom deserved happiness after a life time of heartache.

The good news is that she is happy now in heaven and will be for the rest of eternity. All the heartache and pain she experienced here has been forgotten, she never cries, never hurts, never feels guilt or shame and spends time with the Lord Jesus every day. You can’t beat that now can you?

I urge you to check out Coming East. Hurry do it now before you forget. This post is so worth your time. It made my day.

10 Ways To Respect Your Man

Jun30

Aug. 1, 1981

Webster’s defines respect as high or special regard, or the state or quality of being esteemed. If we take this definition literally and apply it to how we treat each other, we’d have some pretty awesome relationships going on out there huh? Marriages would last longer, be revived
or renewed. Families could quite possibly stay together and children would witness what a true marriage should look like.

Respect could revolutionize relationships. So what does it look like? I’m going to list 10 ways a woman can respect her man or vice versa. These 10 have been tested and tried by me in my own marriage and I can testify that respect can change mediocre to marvelous. Along with our willingness to change and God’s love, miracles happened in our relationship. Give it a try you might find a priceless treasure where you thought there was only some trash.

1-    When he comes home from a long day at work give him a few minutes to wind down. I know you gals who have been home all day with the kids just want to pass them off to him as soon as he walks through the door but trust me, it’s not a good idea. Usually. Believe me when my kids were young my first instinct was to hand him those precious little ones and run for my life.

2-    Listen to his ideas. I realize you might not agree with these ideas. They may even sound crazy sometimes but just listen. There will be another, more appropriate opportunity to tell him that maybe he needs to rethink these ideas, ideas that will blow your whole savings account. But
for now just listen and let him share his dreams or plans or whatever it is he needs to share with you.

3-    When you feel it’s time to talk to him about such things as mentioned in No. 3 do it in a gentle way. There’s nothing worse than making your man feel like his ideas are dumb. Put yourself in his place, do you want him to suggest to you that your ideas are dumb?

4-    Thank him for working hard to provide for you and your family. A man’s identity is often wrapped up in his job and it helps his self-esteem to know you think he is doing well at it.

5-    Put your relationship with him above all other human relationships. Yes even above your children. It took me a long time to learn that this was a wonderful way to show him how much I respected and loved him. Take time away with him every day, even if it’s just a few minutes. Let
him know that being alone with him is important to you.

6-    When you give him what is important to him this shows him respect. It might be “intimacy”, it might be fried pork chops, or it could be providing him with a few minutes of relaxation before he has to be daddy or hubby after work.

7-    Do not degrade him especially in public. If you are with friends playing a game and he doesn’t get a question right don’t make hubby feel like an idiot. He already feels embarrassed because he didn’t get it right. Don’t make it worse. It’s better to say,”That’s ok honey you’ll get it
next time.” Well my husband would rather I didn’t say anything about it at all. Leave it at that and move on with the game.

8-    Don’t make a habit of correcting him in front of others. Maybe he’s telling a story and exaggerates a bit or remembers it different than you, is it really worth it to correct him in the presence of his friends?

9-    Do something to let him know he is appreciated and not just on Father’s Day. One night B got home late from work and I had made steak. After heating it up I cut the steak up for him before I gave him his plate. He said, “Wow, why did you cut it up?!” “Cause I love you.” Sickening
right? Well I thought he’d like it. He did.

10-  This is the most important concept of all. Do unto him as you would have him do unto
you. We all want to be treated with respect. Most of us don’t believe we are respected as much as we would like. One solution may be to teach others how we want to be respected by respecting them that way.

What’s your take on this? I’d love to hear if you have any more suggestions to add.

Don’t forget to check out my latest on Grace Full Women, “Can My Behavior Change My Heart?”

Out Of Her Comfort Zone

Jul1

She had lots of friends who weren’t from my crowd. To look at us you’d never believe we were compatible. She smoked in the school bathroom; I was scared to go in there most the time. Her crowd was the cool, tough bunch while mine was the mediocre athletic, nerdy types.

I can’t remember our first words to each other but we clicked and that was the start of a lifelong friendship. Crys introduced me to her brother, a popular tough guy. We went on a double date and another lifelong relationship was made that night. I met the guy of my dreams and married him 2
years later. Thanks for that.

You’d have to know Crys to understand that she’s never really been the emotional kind, not lovey dovey, or huggy. I on the other hand cry at the drop of a hat, love anything sentimental and hug a lot. So you’ll understand when I found the letter why it made me cry all over again thinking
of her.

My dad passed away 11 years ago. It was one of saddest, most unbelievable times of my life. I have written several posts about him and if you’ve read any of them you know he was my hero and I was his princess. Crys doesn’t like to show emotion and she’s not big on funerals so she stayed at my
mom’s house the day of the funeral and cleaned and prepared for visitors. This meant more than she’ll ever know.  We never really took the time to talk about his death because I knew and I think
she knew we’d just end up in a bawling session. That day she did her thing and I did mine, and we hugged good bye when it was all over.

A few weeks later I received a letter in the mail from her. She expressed how sorry she was that I had lost my dad. The letter was about a page long and her words touched me so.  I can’t explain how much it helped me at that time. Crys showed my family love by all the things she had “done” because that’s her way of giving love. The special thing about it is that Crys knew I needed a different kind of love, a letter of love. Even though it took her out of her comfort zone she
went there, she did it for me and I will never forget it. As I write this post now big tears well up in my eyes because I am reminded of this thoughtful loving thing Crys did just for me.

I ran across that letter just the other day and as I read it again the memories flooded back to all the times we’ve been there for each other. I write this to tell Crys “I love you. You are never forgotten. You are my sister. You are beautiful inside and out and I’m thankful to God for putting
you in my life.”

The letter is neatly folded and remains in the box with what I have left of my dad’s belongings.

I am thankful to The Red Dress Club  for this prompt.  It is a post that needed to be written a long time ago. Here’s the prompt:

You or your character find a forgotten letter or card from someone important in
your life–whether good or bad.  What does it say?  How does it affect you or
your character?  What is done with it?

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From Such A Hell To Such A Time As This

Jul4

This is a repost from February. Since it’s July 4th I thought it would be fitting to post again.

 

I spoke with an 89 year old man this week. His life has been inspiring to others and quite an experience for him. He and his wife have been married 67 years and have lived through decades of difficult times as well as times of joy.

The story that has stuck in my mind is the one about his time in WWII. I’ve never met a POW until now and I have to say I have a new respect, a new pain for the men and women of our military.

A was drafted in the U.S. Army in 1944. He was in Belgium with his infantry unit during the most famous battle in WWII the Battle of the Bulge. The German soldiers began directing fire to his unit so his infantry unit tried to return to their camp. This is when A was wounded by enemy fire and captured by Nazi soldiers. He was taken to a prison camp where he and many other prisoners of war were held until they were liberated by General Montgomery and his British soldiers. During the time he was a prisoner from Dec. 1944 to April 1945, he lost 98 lbs. due to malnutrition and lack of proper medical treatment to his wound.

I am trying to reconcile my feeling of such despise for soldiers who treated A in such a horrible way and knowing I shouldn’t despise others. Maybe I should just feel sorry for them. I know forgiveness is in order and perhaps that is how A has managed to get through such horrible circumstances.

Imagining how hungry I get going 6 or 7 hours without food it is hard to think of A being so hungry for so long that he lost 98 lbs. How hungry would you be, how horrible, how painful, how could one human do that to another?
I have seen the pictures of the POW camps, watched the horrific documentaries but to know someone who was tortured by these barbaric men brings it on home. To know there really are human beings in existence that have so little value for life is beyond belief yet it is true.

What would it take to cause a human being to be willing to go to the extremes these men went to in order to destroy other people? In my own heart I wonder is there anything that could cause me to turn on my fellow man in such a way. I have heard the Nazi soldiers were afraid that Hitler would kill them and their families had they not done his bidding. Would that be enough to push me to the far side of hell? I pray to God that I could stand in His strength should ever a persecution come to the U.S.

I am thankful that I have been given the opportunity to meet this man, this man who has lived a full life despite what could have been a life shattering experience. There are no coincidences and A was kept alive and rescued for reasons known only to God Himself. Somehow I suspect A’s two sons, five grandchildren and eight great grandchildren could tell me why they think he’s here.

I do not know where he stands in faith but I do know God brought him home from such a hell for such a time as this. Esther 4:14. I’m so glad I was here at this time to meet him.

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Is There Life Out There?

Jul8

This is a prompt from The Red Dress Club. For this week, take what you know out of your comfort zone. Try a new genre, a new time period, a geography you’ve only dreamed of, fantasy or historical instead of contemporary fiction, try the male POV if you usually write women. Or
vice versa. Switch it up. See where it takes you.        Concrit is welcome.

This is my first attempt at this genre of writing, so please bear with me.

“I thought you believed in God?” Mason stood staring at her.

Looking back intently Rachel said, “ You know I do. I just
think if He created our planet with all this intelligent life then why couldn’t
He do it somewhere else in the universe?”

“I just didn’t realize you believed such things.”

“You don’t?”

“ I mean I’ve always kind of thought that maybe it was possible. There’s a lot of weird things that happen  to make me think there may be someone or something out there.”

Rachel’s big round stomach bulged as she jumped off the hood of the car. The baby inside kicked hard reinforcing her belief in a Creator.

Mason walked over from his vehicle and stood right in front of her. He placed his hand on her belly. Mason wanted this child to call him daddy, but he knew that wouldn’t happen. “Will he take care of you and the baby?”

Rachel could barely look him in the eyes. It was hard to face the truth of it all. “He said he would let me keep her and that he’d always be there when I needed him. I believe that’s true, I have to believe it.”

Mason wanted to hold her. She needed a man like him. Her child needed a father to be there all the time. He would do that for them, but it just wasn’t going to work out that way.

Rachel moved closer though she didn’t dare touch Mason. There was too much at stake. “Mason, if there were intelligent life on another planet do you think we could survive there?”

Mason wanting so much to be in another place and time with Rachel as much as she did replied, “ We can dream can’t we?” With that they each got back in their separate vehicles and drove away.

Rachel pulled up in the drive of her home and sat in the car dreading going in the door. He would be waiting.

Mason sat in his vehicle daydreaming about a life with Rachel and their baby girl. It was a dream
that would remain just that…a dream. She belonged to Alec as did many other women on Astra.

Could it possibly be true? If only there was a planet other than Astra that could support human life he’d find a way to get Rachel and the baby there… safe away from Alec.

 

Old Barns Have Great Charm

Jul9

Living in Georgia I run across some charming old buildings. My favorite are old barns. Today I’m posting some of my favorites at the request of a friend. However you gotta know I wanted to share anyway.

Simpson Mill Rd.

This has been around since before I came to my county about 40 years ago.

Played around with the graphics and I came up with this. Looks like a painting.

This actually part of an old feed mill

Thanks for letting me share my picture finds with you. I’d love to see yours. By the way I have a new camera coming for my birthday. Can’t wait, there’s no telling what you will be seeing on this blog when I get started.

What Does A Woman Want?

Jul13

The women in my family

In thinking about what women really want out of life I guess I can only speak for myself then see if anybody else can relate. This is the second part to an article I wrote entitled What Do Women Want published at Christian Women’s Online Network a few weeks ago. That article came from the perspective of many women I have talked to over the years. See if you agree with me on  these 15 points.

1-    I want to grow mentally, spiritually, and creatively every day.

2-    I don’t want to grow old on the outside but I know it’s inevitable. I try to slow it down with hair color, face moisturizer and drinking lots of vitamin water ahh but alas I turned 47 yesterday.

3-    I want to make decisions about my life based on what I want but when there are others involved, decisions have to be made based on how it affects everyone.

4-    I want to continue to live out my God given dreams without the feeling that I can’t finish it. Confidence!

5-    I want a man who will die for me. I have one.

6-    I want my children to be filled with pure joy. I don’t think they are… yet. Praying about that one.

7-    I do not want to be a people pleaser but a God pleaser. Pleasing God is so much easier than pleasing people. He just wants me to be me they want me to be someone I’m not.

8-    I want support from friends and family in the ventures toward my dreams. I do and will continue to support them.

9-    I want respect. You’ll always get it in return from me and usually even if you don’t give it to me.

10-  I need love to survive. Unconditional love. Not a love based on what I do right or wrong, just love no matter what. A love similar to God’s love. His love can’t be earned. He loves me no matter how bad I screw up or how awesome I do something, it never changes.

11-  I want my kids to fulfill their God given dreams. Well first they need to find those dreams, and then follow them. I will help them succeed any way I can.

12-  I want my husband to know real love. My love is real but insufficient for him. I want him to know God’s love fully and completely.

13-  I never want to feel like I just exist. I’ve been there done that and life without purpose is no life at all.

14-  I want to be an encouragement to others. That may present itself in different ways to different people but everyone needs to know they are valued.

15-  I want chocolate. It’s that simple. Give me chocolate and you have a friend.

What do you want? No really. In the comments section tell us one or more things you want even if it’s the same as on my list.

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The Secret's At The Cemetery

Jul15
This is the second part to a new storyline I began last week thanks to a prompt from The Red Dress Club You can enjoy the first part here. Today’s prompt was to write about a pair of shoes of yours or your character’s. Concrit is needed and welcome. Thanks.
 

Rachel reached for the bag in the seat beside her. She clutched it tight as she got closer. The contents inside gave her the strength she needed to face the monster that waited for her.

 

The front door swung open even before her foot hit the first step on the porch. Alec was dressed in the red pinstriped shirt he wore when he was feeling powerful. He looked at Rachel like he might hit her with the solid glass tumbler he held in his hand.

“Where have you been? You left your phone here. You know I don’t like it when I can’t get in touch with you.” He said through gritted teeth.

 

“I went to Halton’s and bought something for the baby then by the cemetery. It’s been a while. I forgot my phone. It was charging and I just walked out and left it.”

 

“The cemetery? Why do you insist on going there? They’re dead Rachel!

 

“You know I have to go there at least once a month. It’s all I have left of them. I’ll take my phone next time.”

 

Alec made certain that was all she had left of her parents. Rachel and Mason knew he was involved in their deaths. However there wasn’t a shred of evidence connecting him.  Almost everything including the house was burned to ashes. The mausoleum held her parents remains and he’d have to restrain her to keep her away.

 

“I want you to accompany me, Susan and Joan to dinner tonight. Wear your turquoise dress and the shoes to match.”

 

“What time should I be ready?”

“6:30.”

Rachel ascended the winding staircase still clutching the bag from Halton’s store. Her steps getting a little quicker the closer she got to her room. Once there she sat on the bed and opened the bag. With hands trembling she took out a pair of pink and white baby shoes. She imagined the shoes on Baby Girl’s feet. Perfect fit.

Baby Girl would never wear a turquoise dress or shoes to match, not if she had anything to say about it.

 The turquoise dress fit tight around her pregnant belly. And the thin straps lay perfectly on her shoulders. But those shoes were hideous, the same color, dyed to match the dress. Alec had to have perfection. Her feet hurt in the 3 inch heels because of the swelling.  Could she slip into the black pair that were one size larger? No, Rachel didn’t dare walk down the stairs without those matching heels.

 Rachel sat down  on the edge of the solid white chair next to the bed. Bending over she tried to reach her left shoe to fasten it. No luck. Propping it on the edge of the bed made it a little easier. Stretching forward she lost her balance, fell over and landed back in the chair.  As she tried again she thought about her last few visits to the cemetery. She usually felt close to her mom and dad while there but this was different. Rachel felt pulled to go there. And she was beginning to remember things. Things her dad told her.

 

“Rachel baby  you need to know some of the secrets about Astra.”

 

She and her dad sat in the garage on the old orange couch as he explained what he called “life lessons”.

Deep inside her mind was planted the details of a way to leave this place. The conversation she had earlier with Mason triggered something significant. She knew in her heart that God did exist and she knew He had created a safe place for her and baby Grace.

 “Where did that come from? Grace? I like that name for you Baby Girl.” Rachel patted her stomach reassuringly, “We’ll have to keep that to ourselves though, only Alec can name the babies.”

 

Rachel rolled herself over and climbed out of the chair after having fastened both turquoise shoes. She laid the pink and white baby shoes on her big belly.

Caressing her roundness with both hands she whispered, “Baby Grace we’re gonna be alright. The secret’s at the cemetery and we’re going there as soon as we get the chance.

 

A Grown Up Orphan

Jul18

A friend of mine lost her mother to cancer last week. Her father died in April of the same horrible disease. I’m just wondering how a woman gets through such a thing! I mean really how devastating to wake up one morning and realize you are now parentless. But for it to happen in such a short span of time. While she was still mourning one parent the other one passes. Seems like too much grief for just one person.

I was a grown woman the day I realized I was an orphan. It’s strange to have parents who love and care about you all your life then one day they’re both gone. Left me empty. Feeling alone, though I wasn’t. My friend must be feeling alone now even though she’s surrounded by family and friends. No other person can fill that void, that space that your mom filled.

Over time I decided to go for some counseling. It helped me over the hump. I prayed a lot for God to help me get up out of the pit I was in. He did. The loneliness finally went away and now I like to be alone. To think, to write, to remember.

I am confident she will find her way back to herself but the journey is long, hard, deep and painful. Although no one can fill that void, that space, God can heal and help her to move on with life. He helped me. He will help you.

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The Man Next To Me

Jul19

 

 

This week’s prompt for RemembeRed asked us to write about a time that rhythm, or a lack thereof, played a role in your life. And don’t use the word “rhythm.” I’m not really a poet but I like to give it a shot once in a while. Concrit welcomed.

 

The man next to me is strong, virile and mine,

In his slumber he breathes in and out, slow and loud

I bind my ears with my own hands to silence the sound

But he is next to me, strong, virile and mine.

 

 

The man next to me is tall, dark and handsome

He sleeps so deeply he knows nothing of me

Head covered by plush pillows I cannot see

But he is next to me tall, dark and handsome.

 

 

The man next to me labors hard to provide

His eyes close at the door of day’s end

Mouth opens and out comes an ear shattering wind

But the man next to me labors hard to provide.

 

 

The man next to me is friend, lover and spouse

But tonight I’ve rolled him over, to the door and out of the house.

 

 

How To Make Memories With A Grown Up Daughter

Jul25

My daughter took me on a 4 day vacation to Charleston South Carolina last week. I believe it was the best time we have ever had together as mother and daughter. This trip was my birthday present from her and I got to choose the place I wanted to go. So since I’ve become intrigued with American history at the age of 47 Charleston was the logical choice and its close to home.

We talked the whole drive up there and back, visited historical sites, ate at some great restaurants, took a few tours, went to the beach for a few hours and visited the market place.

I have to tell you with all the great things we did my favorite was the time we had alone laughing and talking in the hotel room, the car, walking, and while laying on the beach. I prayed before we left for God to let this be a time of memory making for both of us. A time we would never forget. And He answered that prayer and then some. The Fox (her blog name) and I were blessed beyond measure many times with great parking, seating, discount tickets, and other things. Some might say it is because we are two beautiful women and I could agree but I really believe its cause we are highly favored as children of God.

I broke out my new Sony camera and the pics are unbelievable, so clear and real. When you see some of them you’ll think you are actually there. Or you’ll wish you were there.

Hyman's restaurant

 

Peek a Boo

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A Child and His Grief

Jul26

He ran up through the backyard as fast as his little legs would carry him. With a small shovel in hand he finally reached Pa’s screened back door. Knocking hard he yelled,” Pa! Pa! Let me in, I have a prize!” The shovel now hid behind his back.

Pa opened the door and JJ came in stumbling across the walkway, holding on to the shovel as if it were his bedtime bear. “What kinda prize?”

Quickly bringing the red shovel out from behind him he said, “I brought my shovel so we can dig to China.” The excitement exuded from his little voice.

JJ loved Pa as much as his own dad. Pa taught him how to catch a baseball.  Plant tomato plants in the garden. In fact JJ had his own plant that he watered and cared for every day. Pa put JJ on his first tricycle, and even helped potty train him. These two did almost everything together.

Pa got his big shovel and JJ had his little red one.  Searching the yard they found the perfect spot behind the pecan tree. The digging began. “How deep do we have to dig ‘fore we see China?”

“Don’t know son. It may take us a few weeks, or months.” Pa stopped to take a draw off his cigarette, sweat dripping from his forehead. Breathing harder than usual and coughing now and then. But he kept digging with JJ until the hole was almost a foot deep and just as wide.

“Can we dig some more tomorrow?”

“Yeah, after school. You bring your shovel and we’ll dig a little more.”

The two hard workers went inside to get a drink. Kool-Aid for JJ and a beer for Pa. They sat down on the couch, with JJ as close to Pa as he could get.  They watched Road Runner and fell asleep, JJ’s head on Pa’s shoulder.

One day after school JJ’s mom told him Pa was in the hospital.

A few weeks later she told him Pa was  leaving to go to heaven.

JJ went to visit Pa. To say good-bye? A boy of 9 years old just couldn’t grasp the meaning of heaven. Didn’t understand he would never see Pa again.

Did it mean the dig to China was over? How about the ‘mater plants, how would they ever live? What  about bicycle lessons, basketball, pop flies in the outfield? He promised.

Confusion.

Anger.

Grief.

Darkness.

Lonliness.

Hurt.

JJ would not get close to anyone again. He’d keep his distance. It wasn’t worth the pain. Lesson learned.

.

This week’s prompt, from Angela and Galit at The Red Dress Club for RemembeRed was to write a post that either starts or ends with the words “Lesson learned.”
A true story about my son and my father.

Be Set Free From Your Prison

Jul30

She paced the floor of the small space of the prison cell. Back and forth, wringing her hands, her heart felt as though it would come right out of her chest. It seemed more like a dream than reality. Would they really set her free today?

Lina had been incarcerated for two years on drug charges. The time she had spent behind these bars were hard, so hard in fact there were some days she didn’t want to live. Lina wasn’t like some of the women who came in claiming their ground and making a name for themselves. She was the one who tried to avoid them all just to stay alive.

Many nights Lina lay on her bunk thinking about freedom. Remembering life with her kids in their small rental home. At the time it didn’t seem like much but oh what she wouldn’t give to be back in her own full size bed with Ben and Lacey on each side of her.  These bars that held her prisoner, that held her captive gave her the feeling of being stuck in a type of hell.

Lina’s story can be related to our own story before we find freedom in Christ. We are held captive by sin and death actually sentenced to hell. But when FREEDOM comes He breaks open those prison cell doors and we are free to walk right out living a life of love, no longer chained to the sin that destroys our lives.

Unfortunately many of us don’t walk out of the prison cell doors, we continue to sit on the bunk and live in our old hell. Although we are free to go and live an abundant life as Jesus tells us in John 10:10 some of us continue in defeat. We are more than conquerors, saints  not sinners, righteous no longer unrighteous but we don’t have a clue.

Life as a Captive Christian is miserable. When Jesus set us free, He set us free from the chains of any sin that tries to hold us. He gives us the power to escape temptation, His Holy Spirit gives us everything we need to live a godly life. ( References below)

As Lina walked out of  prison a free woman that afternoon she realized a new life was about to begin as she ran into the arms of her two children.

As you walk out of the prison you have already been freed from realize you have a new life waiting so run into the arms of the Father and live abundantly in Him.

Galatians 5:1 It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.

Romans 1:7, Galatians 5:1, 1 Corinthians 10:13, 2 Peter 1:3

Don’t forget to check out Grace Full Women for more encouragement and inspiration from an imperfect woman who just wants to share God’s love.

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She Remains

Aug3
Family heirloom silver napkin rings

Image via Wikipedia

I didn’t know what to expect that first time I walked in her home. As I walked through her purposefully decorated living room to the kitchen I felt a little uncomfortable. My home was usually in disarray because I was raising small children and my housekeeping skills had not been perfected. So I was a little out of place when I stepped into a Better Homes and Garden magazine.

She was neatly dressed in jeans and a button up shirt and her hair perfectly set. Where was I, in a Leave It To Beaver episode?

I was escorted to her kitchen table which was already set with “real “plates, silverware, goblets, and cloth napkins. Did she keep it like this all the time or was this for me? I have to admit I felt special and she meant for me to feel that way.  Over at my house we used paper plates, cups and napkins. The easier the better. I later found out she had always used her good dishes even when her children were small. This lady was classy and refined and I wanted to learn what I could from
her.

As a young woman I was impulsive and said and did things on a whim. She taught me what it meant to think before I spoke and later I understood that I should do the same before acting too.

I have watched her world almost fall apart and yet she remains. She remains in Him just as Christ tells us to do in John 15.

 Because she remains I have a godly woman to follow.

Because she remains her family stays strong.

Because she remains many others see Jesus every day.

And because she remains her legacy will go on.

We have been in ministry together for many, many years and I’ve grown because of my mentor. There is so much I could say but there is not enough space here or anywhere to contain all she’s taught me. The love I’ve received and had the privilege to give in this relationship has been one of the most special gifts the Lord has given to me.

I am blessed to have her on my side and I consider this woman my friend, mentor and partner in the greatest call we have on our lives, loving others to Jesus. Thank you N.

This was written in response to a prompt from The Red Dress Club. Write about a mentor, someone who guided or inspired you. How did your mentor impact your life?

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Photo Edit Challenge My Reflection of Something

Aug10

This is another edit me challenge from My Reflection of Something.

The beautiful original.

My edit.

My editing process was simple. I used Windows Photo Gallery and tried different things and came up with this. Then I used paint and added the Scripture verse.

This photo was so gorgeous before it was hard to come up with anything but I just fiddled around a bit.

My edit
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Has Your Ship Sailed?

Jan6

It crossed my mind as my son and I talked about his college education…. how can I expect him to know what he wants to do with the rest of his life NOW when I have just found what I want to do with mine at the age of 47? Strange how our expectations of our young people are so rigid isn’t it? But it’s always been that way.

At the age of 46 I was given the opportunity to do something I had forgotten I loved to do. Turned out I can’t stop now and I’m attempting to make some sort of a living at it. I have found my calling, my gift, my talent in the middle of life.

Guess what? My ship hasn’t sailed without me. I wondered if it had because I couldn’t find my ship for so long.

It’s here! I’m on it, sailing out to sea. Sometimes it’s a rough ride, the waves toss me about. But I’m on for the ride of a lifetime.

Do you feel your ship has sailed without you? Wrong! There it is! See it over there in the harbor? Yes, that’s yours. Get on board and begin your new adventure.

You know… the one you’ve wanted to begin for a while now but you just haven’t taken the time, effort or money to try.

Maybe you just don’t have enough faith to push off and get in the water. Is that it?

Here’s the deal. You’ve been created to do it, called by your Creator to give the world around you your gift. Will you keep your light hid or will you let it shine bright? It’s your choice.

I’m sailing away. See me over there on that sailboat? Yeah, that one! Look for the Light then shine yours.

She is Every Woman

Jan28

Some of you who are new to my blog might not have read this post so since its one of my favorites I’m putting it up again. It has deep meaning for me because I have been in each one of these places as a woman.

She is Every Woman

She’s the one in the waiting room, the one who makes the bed, the one who on the inside feels empty and dead. She is every woman.

She’s a mom waiting in the carpool line, the one who is never on time, to her life’s just an uphill climb. She is every woman.

She’s making a new start, she is doing her best, it seems everything has to be a contest. She is every woman.

She’s seeking and searching, she’s trying to serve God, she doesn’t know why she feels so flawed. She is every woman.

She’s a friend, a teacher, a daughter and a mother. She’s a nana, a sister, an aunt and a lover. She is every woman.

She’s loved and beautiful, both inside and out. She’s a valuable treasure but she still has that doubt. She is every woman.

© Copyright Julie E. Moore

Life Is Good Because…..

Feb17

Life is good right now because I have had a new door opened to me (I’ll tell you about that later), ministry with Lifesong begins in 2 weeks, the Trueface class I teach and the women in it are awesome and me and my Tuesday coffee buddies are learning new things every week.

Life is good because my husband read my Valentine blog then sent me a Valentine email. He wrote one sentence, which is between us, but it meant the world to me. It was simple but simple is soooooo good! My honey also gave me a card. Beautiful, he even read it before he bought it and underlined a few parts. You have come a long way baby!

Life is good because God has blessed me with a daughter who turns 27 February 19th. She gets more beautiful inside and out every year. I am proud of the woman she is becoming, and her accomplishments. But I love her mind, her thought process (she’s always right), the way she appreciates good literature (she’s like my mom in this way), she is very stylish, she still calls me Mommy, she is trustworthy,she is not a gossip, she is truthful, she loves Thai and so do I, she cares about my well-being, she gives the best advice. My baby girl may be all grown up but my heart will always be attached to hers forever.

Life is good because my son keeps me laughing. He could make a wall laugh if a wall could laugh. He is very creative, writes, and can be and do anything he wants to be or do. He is very charming, the women always like him. He is an excellent salesman both at work and at home, he could talk the wall into giving him the paint off of it if it could. He is always concerned about me when I seem sad, and wants to comfort me. He and I can talk about most anything with the exception of “female issues” but that’s what daughters are for. His compassion has its boundaries but if you are one of the lucky recipients he lets it pour. His love runs deep, so deep it hurts him at times. My son, my baby boy whom I will always picture with a sweet shy smile and a plate full of food.

Yes life is good and I can take no credit for it. My Maker has done it all and I thank Him every day. I received the award at the top of the post from a sweet blogging friend. Her blog is so worth the read and you can find it at http://opalomega.blogspot.com. My blogging experience has been interesting in the way that I have been led to new friends from all walks of life like Sushmita. I am meeting people from all over the world and I’m sure God definitely has had a hand in it.
© Copyright Julie E. Moore

This Is How I See Heaven

Feb21

I’m not so afraid of going to heaven now as I used to be. In fact I kind of look forward to going because some of the people I love most are there. It has changed my perspective of heaven, from a far away foreign place to a sweet home place. My grandparents, mother-in-law, daddy, mama and a miscarried baby are all in heaven.

I envision this home place to be a large gray wooden and stone house with a big rocking chair front porch. Everyone is sitting outside visiting and drinking tea except my 2 grandmothers and my mother-in-law Marie. They are inside cooking up a big meal of fried chicken, cornbread, mashed potatoes, fresh green beans and a variety of desserts. My daddy is reading the newspaper, glasses pulled down low on his nose and mama and I sit close by talking about every day things. Paw-paw is sitting back rocking in the rocking chair and Papa is holding my beautiful baby boy.

The smell of the food drifts out of the open windows and our noses perk up. We all make our way to a large wooden table made for a large family. The table is loaded with all sorts of wonderful foods, candles lit in the middle and the best china and silverware. As I look around I feel a sense of contentment, fulfillment, and joy like never before. At the head of the table sits my most beautiful, loving Savior Jesus Christ. He is there with us in the home place, He made the home place, He is the reason there is a home place.

I realize my vision of heaven is not quite like the golden streets, and mansions described in the Bible but for me that gray home, which is my grandparent’s home place, is as close to a mansion as I can imagine.

I do get homesick for my permanent home sometimes now and then because I miss my loved ones so. But I thank God I have the hope of knowing I will see them again. Do you get homesicK? How do you envision heaven?

I don’t have a pic of my grandparent’s old home place so the one above is not their’s but its pretty close and the yard is “heavenly” don’t ya think”?

© Copyright Julie E. Moore all rights reserved

The Courage To Be

Feb22

A young man slipped ever so quietly into the professor’s classroom and sat down in the back row. Jeff’s blonde hair was unclean from days of not being washed. His once bright red t-shirt was now faded to almost pink and his jeans were stained with days of grunge. The odor from his body was offensive to all those near him. The professor had seen cases such as this before, a classic case of very low self-esteem.

He tried to get a response from Jeff but only a few muffled words would slip out when he spoke. No eye contact was ever made and he walked with his head down as he left the classroom every day. The Professor prayed for some miracle to take place in this young man’s life.

A two week break came round and Jeff went home for a visit. All was the same at home with the family. His mother was still the peacemaker trying to please everyone in the household. Father the strict disciplinarian making sure all towed the line. Then there was David his brother who had been left behind at home while he went off to college. A timid boy of twelve, who kept his grades up, followed Dad’s rules and let mom think he was as happy as a clam. Yes, everything was the same especially Jeff….

One night at dinner as they ate together a familiar conversation began around the table. It centered on Jeff’s low GPA at college, his need to improve his hygiene, his lack of conversation, etc. He had no answers, except that he would try harder, all the while knowing he had no motivation to do so.

Finally, the day came to leave and go back to the struggles of college life. The father walked Jeff to the bus stop to say goodbye. When they arrived, a group of men that worked with his father were also waiting for a bus. They began to taunt and laugh at Jeff’s appearance. “What a pig, oink, oink.” “I wouldn’t claim that as my son.” “He stinks man, aren’t you embarrassed?”

For the first time in Jeff’s life, his father embraced him and kissed him on the forehead. He said to his son, “Son your mother and I love you more than you will ever know. I am thankful that God gave you to me. And I am so proud that you’re my son.”

After that day, a transformation took place in Jeff’s life. His GPA skyrocketed, and he went on to become a computer analyst. You see, Jeff had a brilliant mind he just needed someone to believe in him.

That day at the bus stop, a life was forever changed by a father’s outward love for his son. That love gave Jeff the courage to step out and become who he was meant to be.

Placed inside each one of us is the power to step into someone’s life and give him or her what Paul Tillich called the “courage to be”. Will you use that power and step into that life?

Today I am thankful for my Father in heaven who gave me the “courage to be” who I am today and my earthly father for his unconditional love. I love you Daddy.
© Copyright Julie E. Moore

Kayla's New Life

Feb26

Kayla went into the dressing room with four dresses to try on. She thought to herself, “Why do I even bother?” The realization of the weight gain had hit her square in the face that morning, as her husband spouted off another rude comment about how big she was getting. He didn’t have to remind her, she looked in the mirror everyday.

She needed a dress for the women’s tea at church. The dresses in her closet were much too tight, out of date, or too casual. Three stores and ten dresses later Kayla decided on the black skirt and jacket with which she would wear her teal blouse. Black was supposed to be slimming, she had a lot of black in her wardrobe.

At the event Kayla sat with two friends from her women’s Bible study. The speaker’s presentation that night was entitled “A Woman’s Identity in Christ”. Kayla had been a believer for many years but could not grasp all that God’s grace entailed. She left the tea realizing she was missing something inside, in her relationship with Christ. She began to think about the way she viewed herself also and it wasn’t the same way God saw her. She was a failure at most things she tried especially this weight loss thing. However God valued and treasured Kayla more than she would ever comprehend and there was nothing she could do to change that!

For months Kayla studied and devoured God’s Word to find out more about the treasures His grace had given her, especially her identity in Christ. She became a confident woman in Christ. When her husband made those snide comments Kayla refused to allow it to bring her down because she knew her God loved her, created her, did not condemn. It was His love for her that changed the way she saw herself. She began to believe she could become healthy from the inside out. Her diet changed, she added exercise and she began counseling.

Years of shame and guilt had ripped her self-esteem to shreds, and her husband and family gave little support. But then a light bulb lit in Kayla and she understood that the Jesus inside her had destroyed any dirty, old past she ever had. It just took someone helping to fan the flame of truth. The light was inside Kayla from the moment she knew Him but no one told her the whole truth of the gospel. She had no idea all that our God gives us when we come to Him.

Kayla and her husband are now living a contented life together. He has learned to respect and love her for who she is and who she is becoming. She accepts him for him and continues to find her own identity and calling in Christ Jesus. Life is not perfect for if it were she would be in heaven but life is good and Kayla is learning what it means to live abundantly.

Falsely Accused

Mar1

Have you ever been accused of doing something you didn’t do? It happened to me today. I got a phone call from a relative who had not spoke to me since this summer even though I had made a few attempts at contacting her.

Supposedly she called to patch things up but in the process accused me of doing something I didn’t do. There’s no way for me to prove to her that I am telling the truth so she’ll just have to take my word for it. I have my doubts about whether she believes me or not and I felt bad about it …. at first.

Guess what, I began to remember what I preach to everyone else. “Live out of who you are in Christ, not what someone else says about you.” I realized I was giving the enemy a stronghold by tempting me to worry about how I was going to “fix” this problem. But I came to the conclusion I don’t have a problem, SHE DOES!

Thank you God for calling me back from regressing into the old habit of pleasing, striving and trying to fix other people and their problems. I’m okay with the way things were left,and I’ll keep on loving and praying for her, but I’m living in Roman 8:1 Therefore there is no condemnation in Christ Jesus…

Alone With God, Well Kinda…

Mar3

As I sat in my husband’s recliner today reading the Bible I had some company. The recliner is hardly big enough for the two of us, but she made her way up in the chair and wiggled her chubby body down into her regular place beside me. I thought I’d share a little of my quiet time with you… well it wasn’t so quiet cause Lola snores. But I had time with Him and my precious dog.

(Pic of Lola meditating)

Depression: The Secret Suffering

Mar8

This is my weekend link up for The Red Dress Club. It’s one of my favorites about depression.

Statistics show 1 in 8 women develop depression sometime in life for various reasons like stress, life experiences, hormones, and believe it or not there are women who actually have a real chemical imbalance because they have very little serotonin surging through the brain… like me.

Those of us who suffer from depression seem to carry with us a stigma that we are weak minded , that our faith is weak, that somehow, some where we have failed and we just “need to suck it up” and get right. It’s much like telling a person with high blood pressure that it’s his/her fault for having the illness.

I have adopted the belief that if I haven’t walked in someone’s shoes I try not to assume I know what they are going through. I just want the same consideration from others. Instead of assuming I have brought depression on by feeling ‘sorry for myself’ try to be understanding. Instead of telling us that depression is sin, try doing a little internet research and find out for yourself that depression happens to some because of a chemical imbalance. Saying this makes some of us feel embarrassed, ashamed or angry. Even if we do sometimes get depressed because of life experiences, hormones, stress, etc. try giving some love and just listen to how we feel without making us feel like we need to keep our suffering a secret. I dare to say if this hasn’t happened to you it will one day.

Yes, there are many times counseling, medication, and exercise help us move into a more enjoyable life but there are also times we need prayer and a shoulder to lean on instead of judgment.

Depression can improve or go away all together, thank you God, but in the event that it last longer than you think it should, be an encourager for your loved one or friend. Be willing to walk beside her until the dark cloud passes, urge her to get the help she needs instead of suggesting she put on a smile and be thankful for everything she’s got. If looking around at everything she had would cure her she would have done that by now. When someone is truly clinically depressed it doesn’t matter how wonderful life seems on the outside, there’s something on the inside that keeps holding her down. She can’t explain why she feels the way she feels, it’s just dark, gloom, nonfunctioning, barely existing, life.

God intends for me to serve Him and in a full state of depression I can’t do that in a way that is worthy of Him. However, if medication helps me function with a full life of peace and joy I’m thinking He’s okay with it. One day I look forward to going ahead in life without meds. but until then I will live this life to the fullest. And I’ll do it with a little help and understanding from my friends and family and a lot of love from my great big God.

It’s time for the secret of depression to come out of the closet. What do you think?

She Is My Refuge

Mar9

She’s the first I see in the morning light, the last one I touch in the darkness of night.

When I left today it took all my might, tears were certain as I drove slowly out of sight.

While awake I think of the night before, not enough time with the one I adore.

As I finally finish my last daily chore, I can see her waiting as I come through the door.

She beckons me to lie down in her rest; her promise of sweet dreams I cannot protest.

When we’re together again and the day is past, I lie down in the comfort of her, my bed at last.

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Defeated Life? Looking for Love? Want To Live Free?

Mar10

Who are you? No, really answer the question for yourself.

Do you identify yourself by your occupation? I’m a computer technologist, teacher, supervisor, administrative assistant, mailman, telemarketer, retail salesperson, etc.

Do you identify yourself by your relationships? I’m the wife of my man, mother of #1 and #2, daughter to J and E, or sister to J.

Is your identity about what you do in your spare time? reader, movie watcher, napper, painter, writer, internet surfer, an exercise buff, volunteer, or teacher at Sunday School.

Do you sometimes even identify yourself by what you feel are your weaknesses? I’m an alcoholic, recovering drug addict, smoker, lazy, or critical. Maybe you see yourself as a failure because everything you attempt to do falls apart or never gets off the ground. Or so you think.

How about accomplishments? I have a Master’s Degree in Business (not me), own my on company, my children are great, finished college, walked 10 miles today (I wish), read the Bible through 5 times, or volunteer 2 or 3 days a week.

How about emotions? I feel unhappy, happy, sad, hurt, lost, alone, abandoned, angry, or bitter.

Most the time when asked “who are you?”,or “tell me about yourself”, we immediately think of all the things we do and the people we do for.

Who are you on the inside, the inner you, the real you, the one without all the stuff you do? Take away all that and who is left?

Ephesians 3:16-21 God is wonderful and glorious. I pray that his Spirit will make you become strong followers and that Christ will live in your hearts because of your faith. Stand firm and be deeply rooted in his love. I pray that you and all of God’s people will understand what is called wide or long or high or deep. I want you to know all about Christ’s love, although it is too wonderful to be measured. Then your lives will be filled with all that God is. I pray that Christ Jesus and the church will forever bring praise to God. His power at work in us can do far more than we dare ask or imagine. Amen. CEV version

According to God’s Word Christ Jesus and the Father love you more than you could possibly wrap your mind around. His Spirit in you as a believer gives you the fullness of God in your spirit. His power at work in you can do far more than you dare ask or imagine.

It’s hard to realize we have such a great love and power living inside us because we live such defeated lives as believers. The best thing spiritually that ever happened to me other than my wonderful salvation was that I began to understand who I am, the true and real me, separated from the me that I had perceived myself to be. I saw myself through the eyes of people, through my emotions and through my earthly, and fleshly desires. This was a me I didn’t like, a me I didn’t want to be, a me who wore a different mask for each person or circumstance. But it was the me that I had always thought I was, so I lived a life of exhaustion, pleasing others, striving to do better and then failing. Ugh!

Christ in me is who I am. I am transformed by His Spirit in me because the old spirit was replaced with Jesus. As a believer in Christ you have this same Spirit, power and unmeasured love inside you. Start living out of who you really are and then do out of who you really are too.

There is freedom in Christ. Galatians 5:1

Still Hungry or Satisfied?

Mar13

My English Bulldog Lola thinks about three things all day and night, when she’s not sleeping. Food, food, and food. It seems she can never be satisfied. Her belly cannot be filled. No matter what I am eating she will eat it too. I know I am bad for giving her table food but have you seen her face? She’ll eat lettuce, pickles, tomatoes, onions, toast, ice, and dirt. Of course Lola loves all kinds of meat like chicken, steak, pork chops, hamburgers, and especially hotdogs. (The more I write the more I realize I have got to put this dog on a diet.)

The point is she is always hungry when she’s awake. I began comparing this to my own spiritual life, and wondered what if…. What if I was always hungry for God’s Word? What if I couldn’t get enough of His presence? What if I could not be satisfied with mediocrity? What if I were bursting at the seams with the power of the Holy Spirit?

If the what ifs were true of me then wouldn’t you see Jesus in me all the time? Wouldn’t He be glorified in everything I say and do? Isn’t this the place every believer wants and needs to be? Wouldn’t I have three things on my mind day and night, Jesus, Jesus and Jesus?

I want to be desperate for Jesus, for His fullness, sooo hungry for His presence in my life…. The thing is that this is the woman I really am, who God made me to be. So if I’m not hungry it’s because I’m getting fed by someone or something other than Jesus. The question is: Are you hungry?

Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. John 6:35

God's Wrath On Japan

Mar15

Did God take His wrath out on Japan using an earthquake and a tsunami? If so what was the reason? Some say it’s because Japan is mainly a godless nation with 84% to 96% believing in Shintoism, which is described as being a way of living in harmony rather than a religion, and Buddism which is considered a religion but does not have a god. I even heard on Youtube that they are being punished for their part in WWII. Wow, wonder if and when America will suffer something of this magnitude for dropping 2 nuclear bombs on Japan and killing men, women and children What I’m saying is will He not “get” us if He is “getting” them? Thankfully part of God’s character is patience and He is giving the world more time before He brings everything to an end. How would I possibly know this?

2 Peter 3: 8 But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. 9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare.

Scripture tells us here in 2 Peter that the Lord is being patient with us. Why? He doesn’t want anyone to perish, He doesn’t want anyone to be eternally separated from Him but wants everyone to repent and be with Him forever. Since this is true it does not make sense that God would bring such devastation on the people of Japan to punish them before His patience has run out.

Verse 10 gives confirmation that the day of devastation will come but as of yet we have not seen the heavens disappear, the elements destroyed by fire and everything on earth laid bare so we are not there now.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life.

God gave His Son out of His love for the world. Jesus died, was buried, and resurrected so we the world could have eternal life and until God has given us every chance possible He will not reign down His wrath. Jesus was given to us out of love and grace and that love and grace is holding back God’s wrath at this time.

I believe natural disasters happen because the earth was created to work on its own. Why doesn’t He stop the natural disasters? I think its because He doesn’t want to interfere with earth’s natural order of things. Could He have stopped the earthquake? Of course. Why didn’t He do it then? I don’t know why He does or doesn’t intervene, but I am certain He is not passing out His wrath on people today, He is passing out His incredible love.

I don’t understand all there is to know about my God but I know His love is immeasureable, incredible and attainable.

Red Riding Hood, Will She Ever Trust Again?

Mar17

We saw Red Riding Hood last weekend. It was awful. That was the opinion of all four of us who went together. It did have a very surprising ending and the wolf turned out to be……. well I’m not telling just in case you lose your mind and decide to go waste some time and see it.

The moral of the story seemed to be: you can’t trust anyone, watch your back! I would hate to live like that, without someone to trust. This poor girl questioned every person she knew, wondering who was dressed like the wolf in “people’s” clothing.

Life without trust whether it stems from pain, hurt, or betrayal is miserable. We may hide it well by pretending we don’t need anyone but deep inside each person longs to trust. Trust offers security, real love, and a place to be my true self. Why do we receive these things from trust? Because the one I trust accepts me for me, he/she only wants what’s best for me.

The wolf in Red Riding Hood was a cold-blooded killer. Betrayal in a relationship can be a killer to that relationship. Ever been betrayed? At first it seems like there’s no turning back, like there is no hope for life. But at some point in life we have to trust again, let love in again. When we do, that old wolf can be put to death. Relationship can be restored, with some people, and the silver bullet can be thrust in that horrible wolf so we can live again without holding back.

Who can you begin trusting before all others? The Father God. There is no one more trustworthy and loving than Him. Give Him your broken, torn heart and let God heal what the wolf has almost destroyed. In Him there is wholeness, let God heal your heart and cause you to trust again.

As far as that awful wolf goes, let him die a terrible death…. oops I gave the ending away…. or did I?

Does An Old Shack Have A Story?

Mar18

I don’t know what it is with me and my fascination with old buildings, barns, churches, structures but its deep within me. Everytime I see one I feel the urge to take a picture. It’s like I am seeing a part of history and if I don’t capture it one day it will be gone. I wonder to myself, “What went on there?” Crazy huh? The older the structure is the more I love it! I’m posting some pics of old churches and structures I captured on my camera. They probably won’t mean much to you unless you use your imagination…..


Who lived here? What story does this old home have to tell?


Mr. Callaway approved the plans for the chapel right before he died. He built Callaway Gardens for his wife, I wonder what he was thinking about when he designed this beautiful building?


How many hallelujahs were shouted here and why?


The walls of this home could tell us of the many meals cooked in the fireplace, and the sweet memories made together around the table at dinner. Use your imagination.

What Not To Say To The Grieving Person

Mar22

I got a call from a friend today. Her dad passed away. I could hear great sadness in her voice although she said she was doing ok. She told me she was trying to comfort herself by thinking about his long, healthy life (he was 87 years old)before the cancer struck, and that he was in heaven now. I said, “It doesn’t help much does it?” She replied, “No.” I tried to give her a little hope and said,”Eventually it will help. It just takes time.”

You know I’ve said before I believe that it’s necessary to walk in someone’s shoes before assuming how that person feels. Well I’ve walked in shoes very similar to these… twice. I was there when my dad took his last breath. Then I sat by my mom’s hospital bed and waited for hours after the machines were turned off until she finally let go of this world. These were the hardest days of my life.

There were many well-meaning family and friends who commented “he’s in a much better place now”, or “she’s no longer suffering and we should be thankful.”
Both true statements but at the time I didn’t want to hear those things. I guess I was just hurting so much I couldn’t imagine my life without them in it. How would I go on without those long talks my dad and I used to have early in the morning over coffee? How would I survive life without my best friend and shopping partner, my mom? These were the thoughts running through my head. Life would never be the same and I knew it. My heart was broke in half and for someone to remind me I would never see either of them again just deepened the pain. Believe me I have said the same things to those who were grieving because I felt it would help, good intentions and all. Maybe this offends some who have made these comments, please know this is meant to help not harm.

As time went by eventually I truly could say it and believe it…my parents are much better off in heaven with Jesus than they are here in this place. I know they would never want to come back here. God has helped me release some of my selfishness of wanting them here and I have allowed Him to fill the emptiness.

As for those well-meaning friends and family they really did mean well and I’m thankful for them. However I have learned a different way to comfort from that situation. When someone I know experiences the death of a loved one, I listen, offer my help and give my love and support. Sometimes a lot of words just aren’t necessary. You’d be surprised at how far a hug, or an “I love you” will go at a time like this.

I’m praying for my friend at this time of loss and would appreciate your prayers too.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort 2 Corinthians 1:3

As far as The Georgia Girl Writes, well it’s under construction. I worked on the website most of Saturday. Ran into quite a few kinks because I’m an amateur trying to do a professional’s job. But I promised a little bit of info., so here it is: I have written my first book! It’s a family biography, soon to be published. Now it won’t be on the bestseller’s list but it is the first book that will be published with my name on it as the author!

Also, I’ve written a children’s book and now I’m looking for an illustrator. I love the story but what’s really fun is it has some extras other than just reading.
How will I publish? Praying for guidance but most likely self-publishing will be the way we go with this one.

Have an awesome night!

What Legacy Did Elizabeth Taylor Leave Behind?

Mar23

I turned on my computer this afternoon to discover Elizabeth Taylor
had passed away. Instantly I remembered my dad saying,”Liz is the most beautiful woman there has ever or will ever be in the movies.” My childhood memories of her flooded back as I pictured her in the movie Cleopatra. As a child I thought the woman was a goddess. As she lounged on her throne carried by several huge muscle men, her dark beautiful hair, and gorgeous piercing eyes, gave a big imagination like mine reason to pretend I too was Cleopatra, except I left out the death by snake bite.

When she was 12 years old Elizabeth appeared in the movie National Velvet about a horse and a girl who trained to be a jockey. I had always wanted a horse. Watching this movie gave me hopes that one day maybe I’d have one. I didn’t but rode many times.

What legacy did she leave? Well I read this at Detnews.com
“Elizabeth Taylor, eight times married, owner of three Oscars, former screen goddess and constant subject of gossip for some seven decades, died of congestive heart failure today in Los Angeles. To some she was a faded actress; to other she will always be the seductive, controversial and colorful Queen of the Nile.” I suppose this is one way to sum up a woman’s life who has spent 79 years on this earth trying to contribute something to the world, giving love to those she could, and opening up a vision to little girls that told them that maybe, just maybe their dreams could come true. Maybe a little girl could become a great actress or a scientist, teacher, reporter, journalist, doctor, mother or race car driver. Maybe she could paint a painting that would change the way we see art, maybe she could run a race and raise donations for breast cancer research, maybe she could reach a little higher, go a little further, and love a little deeper than she thought possible. It seems a shame to reduce Liz Taylor’s life down to a few accolade’s when there was obviously so much more to her than that.

I hope to find out more about the real legacy Elizabeth Taylor left us and maybe those who knew her best will begin to reveal it to us soon.

What legacy do you want to be remembered for in this life?

Things I Don't Like… At All!

Mar24

1-I don’t like it that I’m eating carrots sticks right now instead of a candy bar.

2-I don’t like it that I have to walk on the treadmill later on this afternoon.

3-I don’t like it that my pants are too tight.

4-I don’t like it that I don’t like to wear sleeveless tops or bathing suits.

5-I don’t like it that I get short of breath walking up a flight of stairs.

6-I don’t like it that I prefer Toaster Strudels instead of plain toast.

7-I don’t like it that I prefer a Wendy’s No. 1 over a salad.

8-I don’t like it that I prefer sweet potato French fries to a plain baked potato with low-fat butter.

9-I don’t like it that I prefer Thai to a nice piece of broiled fish.

10-I don’t like it that I would rather have turtles ice cream than fruit with sugar-free whip cream.

As you can see I am trying to begin again with a healthy lifestyle. I don’t like it, don’t want to do it, struggle with it and ask for your prayers for an attitude change.

Ephesians 1:18-21 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you,
the riches of His glorious inheritance in His holy people, and
His incomparably great power (what kind of power?)
for us who believe. (for who? Me a believer)
That power is the same as the mighty strength He exerted when He raised Christ from the dead (the power in me is the same as what?!)

Ok so if I believe Scripture, and I do, then I have to believe that as a child of God He has given me a hope and that hope is that I have His great power and that power is the same as the mighty strength He used to raise Christ from the dead and much more. The great power in me being the Holy Spirit.

Based on this information maybe, just maybe I can lose some weight! Don’t you think? Any motivation is appreciated.

Are You Afraid To Walk Through This Door?

Aug15

Enter in the door.

The Room of Grace is a safe place.  It’s the place you go to take off all your masks and be yourself. As you walk through this door you know everyone accepts you even if you have visible sin and if you are hiding invisible sin you’re free to confess it. As a matter of fact the people there encourage you to confess it. Then as you release your ‘stuff’ more masks fall away.

This Room of Grace holds the key to your true identity. Jesus lives here. He’s always been here loving and forgiving, holding out His nail scarred hands to all who will take them. His light shines brightly in the room and yours does too because as His child you feel free with Him. You aren’t perfect and He knows it but His love is never affected by your imperfections. You never have to hide in shame from God or the people in the Room of Grace.

There is another room the Room of Good Intentions. In this room you are encouraged to wear a mask every day. If you even think of divulging your sin you know you will be judged by the people here.  In your imagination you think God will condemn you too. So a “perfect” person submerges. Perfect on the outside but suffering of guilt, shame, loss of identity, pain, and hurt on the inside. You have to “pretend” a lot when you live in this room. You can never be who you were created to be because it’s all about performing for everyone. Performing for your husband, kids, church family, co-workers, friends, and all the time being someone you don’t really want to be.

Maybe you have some fear about opening the door to the Room of Grace. Don’t be afraid just go on in, there’s at least one friend waiting there. Yes there’s probably someone you know already in that room. She/he is ready and waiting to help you along. Waiting to listen, to love and to accept you right where you are right now at this time and place in your life.  Its Jesus extended through flesh and blood.

Maybe what you’re reading right now has struck a chord and you realize you are living in the Room of Good Intentions. Isn’t it time to be YOU, the new creation you are in Christ? The Christian life lived by working, trying, striving and earning is just too hard and it was never meant to be lived that way.

Which room do you live in The Room of Grace or The Room of Good Intentions? If you aren’t able to live as YOU then you are in the wrong room.

Romans 5:17 For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!

1 Corinthians 15:12 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.

Check out GraceFull Women today for a great post by my friend Jennifer. Read her Rescue Story.

 

 

 

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Love Your Husband Right Where He Is Now.

Aug23

I wrote this for my friend Brandy’s blog Gracefull Wife a few weeks ago. Just in case you didn’t make it over there to read it I’m reposting it today.

My husband and I got married when I was 17 and he was 18. Neither of us were believers in Christ. He was enlisted in the army so we traveled to Kentucky for a year then Germany for another. I was miserable away from home as I was a family girl. So when I found out I was pregnant and would go stateside to deliver I was elated although I would miss hubby.

After my daughter was born and hubby was home from Germany I decided (the Holy Spirit decided) it was time for me to start my baby in church. She and I went and after a few weeks
I accepted Christ and life began to change for me.

I no longer wanted to smoke, drink, hear bad language, or listen to secular music. All these were
things hubby and I did together. Needless to say Jesus was changing me and I loved Him and wanted my family to have this sweet relationship I had too.

So I started asking hubs to come with me. His answer was always a firm, “No.” It went on like that for years and I continued to pray and pray waiting for God to make him get saved. I didn’t understand that neither God nor I could make him believe, it was hubs decision. However I continued to plead as if going to church was the answer to all our problems.

Then the day came and he finally went. 

Then he asked the pastor to come over to our home.

Then he prayed to receive Christ.

Hallelujah! My troubles were over, right? Marriage is perfect when both people are saved right?

Hubby continued to go with us for a while. By then we had a son also and the four of us went to service together several times a month. Then one week he stopped going. I was so disappointed. Hurt. Let down.  I was alone. Again.

Guess what I did? Yep I began to nag him to come back to church. Let me just say now, nagging does not work! It does however push your loved one in the opposite direction. He did not come back for years.

One day the Lord spoke to me in my spirit saying, “He doesn’t have to be in church for Me to speak to His heart. Leave him alone, love him where he is and let me work it out.

As a grace full wife this has brought me more peace in my marriage than almost anything God has taught me. Love. Your. Husband. Where. He. Is.  As hard as that sounds it is so easy to do. The burden of his relationship with Jesus was taken off me and put where it’s supposed to be.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

Hey Grace Full Women check out my new blog Pics, Prayers and Pompoms. I think you’ll like it and hope you will be encouraged, uplifted. Join me in some “whoo hooing” (pompoms) by sending me something you are celebrating and I’ll post it! It’s your chance to praise the Lord out loud to a large crowd! julieemoore@bellsouth.net

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The Real Me by Jennifer Hembree

Aug29

I’m welcoming once again my friend and the women’s minister from Eagles Landing First Baptist Church, Jennifer Hembree. I met Jennifer years ago as we attended church together. Since that time we have taught Bible studies and ministered to the women of our church and community together. This woman can celebrate and carries joy wherever she goes. I hope you will grab a cup of coffee this morning and enjoy a devotional with Jennifer.

God's Word leads us to the truth

Have you ever wondered why certain things have happened to you? Sometimes we look at the lives of other women and wish we could exchange ours for theirs. The truth is we all matter. We were created with a purpose.

It’s hard to believe that we matter when tragedy and heartache invade our lives. The storms of life
can bring us to the end of ourselves. But, the good news is our Heavenly Father is waiting with open arms to extend His unconditional love, unyielding mercy, and amazing grace to us in the middle of life’s circumstances.

A few years ago, I created what I call my “suffering journal” that I used when I was going through
a dark, painful time in my life. In it, I wrote my thoughts and prayers as well as Scriptures that gave me the strength, hope, and courage to rise up and live victoriously.

I’ve shared things from my journey with God with other women. Sharing with them seemed to help them in their point of need or crisis. The truth is in Christ we have everything we will ever need. Once we understand who we are in Him and the truth from God’s Word about our identity, we begin living as daughters of the King. We stop living according to what others around us think.

As His daughter (one who has accepted Christ as my Savior):

  • · I am a child of God (John 1:12; Romans 8:16)
  • · I have been redeemed, forgiven, and am a recipient of God’s lavish grace (Ephesians 1:7-8)
  • · I am a new creation; the old has gone (II Corinthians 5:17)
  • · I am God’s workmanship, created in Christ to do His work that He planned beforehand that I should do (Ephesians 2:10)
  • · I am an heir of God and fellow heir with Christ (Romans 8:17)
  • · I am forever free from condemnation (Romans 8:1)
  • · I have been freed from sin’s power over me (Romans 6:7)
  • · I am a temple (home) of God; His Spirit (His life) lives in me (I Corinthians 3:16; 6:19)
  • · I have been bought with a price; I am not my own; I belong to God (I Corinthians 6:19,20)
  • · God will supply all my needs (Philippians 4:19)
  • · His peace guards my heart and my mind (Philippians 4:7).
  • · I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. The life I am now living is Christ’s life (Galatians 2:20)
  • · I have been justified (completely forgiven and made righteous) and am at peace with God (Romans 5:1; Romans 3:24)
  • · I have been made complete in Christ (Colossians 2:10)

When you’re going through a trial in your life, remember that God promises the Crown of Life to
those who love Him. On our own, we’ll be miserable, confused, frustrated, worried, and depressed. He’s the only One who can give us peace in the midst of the storm. Live proudly that He has chosen you to be a part of the family of God and His power will be unleashed through your life!

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Don’t forget to pop over at my other blog Pics, Prayers and PomPoms and read one way God has promoted togetherness in my marriage. It might make you laugh.

She Remains: A Tribute to My Mentor

Sep1

She Remains

I didn’t know what to expect that first time I walked in her home. As I walked through her purposefully decorated living room to the kitchen I felt a little uncomfortable. My home was usually in disarray because I was raising small children and my housekeeping skills had not been perfected. So I was a little out of place when I stepped into a Better Homes and Garden
magazine.

She was neatly dressed in jeans and a button up shirt and her hair perfectly set. Where was I, in a Leave It To Beaver episode?

I was escorted to her kitchen table which was already set with “real “plates, silverware, goblets, and cloth napkins. Did she keep it like this all the time or was this for me? I have to admit I felt special and she meant for me to feel that way.  Over at my house we used paper plates, cups and napkins. The easier the better. I later found out she had always used her good dishes even when her children were small. This lady was classy and refined and I wanted to learn what I could from
her.

As a young woman I was impulsive and said and did things on a whim. She taught me what it meant to think before I spoke and later I understood that I should do the same before acting too.

I have watched her world almost fall apart and yet she remains. She remains in Him just as Christ tells us to do in John 15.

 Because she remains I have a godly woman to follow.

Because she remains her family stays strong.

Because she remains many others see Jesus every day.

And because she remains her legacy will go on.

We have been in ministry together for many, many years and I’ve grown because of my mentor. There is so much I could say but there is not enough space here or anywhere to contain all she’s taught me. The love I’ve received and had the privilege to give in this relationship has been one of the most special gifts the Lord has given to me.

I am blessed to have her on my side and I consider this woman my friend, mentor and partner in the greatest call we have on our lives, loving others to Jesus. Thank you Nancy.

I encourage you to write a letter or tribute to your mentor to let her know what a difference she has made in your life.

Trying Picasa 3 To Edit Photos. What Do You Think?

Sep4

Old Feed Mill

I wanted to share some of my latest photo edits. I did these in Picasa 3. I was playing around with the different options and came up with a variety of looks for my pics. These are old structures around my town in Georgia. I would love to hear what you think.

 

My Photos of Old Barns

Old Barn Photo turned Painting

 

Storm in Georgia

 

 

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You Are Someone Worth Dying For

Sep9


I don’t ask you to listen music often. This time I really would like for you to click the button. There’s a real blessing in store and the truth of God’s grace is so vividly clear you can’t miss it.

Worth Dying For by Mikeschair

You might be the wife, waiting up at night
You might be the man, struggling to provide
Feeling like it’s hopeless
Maybe you’re the son, who chose a broken road
Maybe you’re the girl, thinking you’ll end up alone
Praying God can you hear me?
Oh God are you listening?

Am I more than flesh and bone?
Am I really something beautiful?
Yeah I wanna believe, I wanna believe that
I’m not just some wandering soul
That you don’t see and you don’t know
Yeah I wanna believe, Jesus help me believe that I
Am someone worth dying for

I know you’ve heard the truth that God has set you free
But you think you’re the one that grace could never reach
So you just keep asking, oh what everybody’s asking

Am I more than flesh and bone?
Am I really something beautiful?
Yeah I wanna believe, I wanna believe that

I’m not just some wandering soul
That you don’t see and you don’t know
Yeah I wanna believe, Jesus help me believe that I
Am someone worth dying for

You’re worth it, you can’t earn it
yeah the cross has proven
That you’re sacred and blameless
Your life has purpose

And you are more than flesh and bone
Can’t you see you’re something beautiful
Yeah you gotta believe, you gotta believe
He wants you to see, He wants you to see
That you’re not just some wandering soul
That can’t be seen and can’t be known
Yeah you gotta believe, you gotta believe that you
Are someone worth dying for

You’re someone worth dying for
You’re someone worth dying for

I’ve been this woman. The one who feels unworthy, less valuable. Until I saw His Son and the Son shone brightly in my heart. Now I know I’m not just some wandering soul, that I am seen and I am known and I do believe I am someone worth dying for. And. So. Are. You.

All praise, glory and honor to Almighty God.

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About Me

Sep11

Join me over at Christian Women’s Online Network today to read my article which is featured as one of 4 commemorating 9/11. I love it over there and glad I do because they have asked me to be a Staff Writer for them. Of course I accepted with pleasure and I’m excited to be a part of this exciting ministry to women. Check it out today cause I’d really appreciate your support. Here’s the link to my article.

 

Julie

I’m a Motivational Lifecoach and author with published articles in online magazines and my first book A Lasting Legacy a biography of a family’s history. It is being  published now by the family for whom it was written. God is so good to give me this opportunity.

As a workshop facilitator I instruct women in life and job skills 4 to 6 months out of the year, but also I lead various other workshops available to ministries and businesses. The focus of these workshops are to lead others to a full, complete life in Christ. Understanding your true self can cause fantastic life changes.

My love for expressing myself through the written word often leads me to freelance writing opportunities for which I am so thankful. My hobbies include blogging, reading, writing, and researching new techniques for creative teaching. I love to spend time with my hubby of  30 years, my 2 adult children, my 3 dogs and good friends. You will hear more about all these precious ones as we go along.

At 21 years of age I believed Jesus was my Savior. But it took years before I allowed Him to become life to me.  I’ve had a growing relationship with Him ever since with more than a few slips along the way. But praise Him for His unearned grace and love! Even in my failures He accepted me and held His hand out to me. He does the same for you.

After teaching  Bible studies for years God gave me a new understanding of His love and grace about 4 years ago.  Because my life was changed so dramatically once I really understood Him in a new way I had to share it and I do with everyone who will listen.

For more insight into my life changing experience take a peek at my blog Pics, Prayers and Pom Poms. It’s a smorgasbord of life stuff.

To contact me email julieemoore@bellsouth.net  anytime.

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My Trip With Mostly Crazy Women

Sep16

I took a short trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains this week and came back with some good mountain shots and some stories about crazy women.

Blue Ridge Mts.

I’m really amazed I was able to get these shots because Big Mama and Control Freak were arguing over whether we were going to follow Lucy the GPS or Big Mama’s mapquest print out. We did have our own tour guide aboard. Big Mama could drive, show us the sites, smoke, talk, scream at Bug Hater and Control Freak all at the same time while driving up the Blue Ridge Mountains. I sat silently wishing for a Zanax.

BugHater sat in the backseat giving pointers on how to drive all the way up there and screaming that Big Mama was gonna drive us off the side of the mountain. She stayed hot the whole way and  I had icescicles hanging from my nose because the air conditioner was on high.  Little Ole Sweet Talker just kept calm and kept right on talking  about everything that came to mind. It’s a wonder Sweet Talker or myself, The Forgotten One, have any sense at all. I’ll explain this name for myself later. Just think “invisible”.

Apple Barn lunch

The food we consumed could feed a whole village. It really is shameful, but it was delicious. This is my lunch from the Apple Barn. Chicken dumplings and you can’t see it but I ate the best corn muffin too or maybe I ate two. From here we shopped and shopped then ended up at the Dixie Stampede where we enjoyed a great show and dinner. A huge dinner which we ate with our hands. No utensils here! It was a real experience.

After this busy, exhausting yet fun day we retired to our rooms to watch Survivor and the Big Brother finale. Bug Hater and Sweet Talker shared a room while I got stuck with Big Mama and Control Freak. Imagine that.

Big Mama doesn’t watch tv she reads her Kindle. It seems Control Freak and I were bother ing her with our Survivor show. “Can you turn that down?” Control Freak, “Your reading what does it matter?” “Just one notch?”  Under her breath,”Ok but I don’t see what it’s hurting.” B.M., “cause I can’t concentrate to read ok!”

I just slipped a little further down under the cover, not that anybody notices. I’m the “forgotten one” in the bunch. After all who cares what restaurant I want to eat at, or what time I want to get up and leave, or if my food is good, or if my hair hurts? Nobody, I’m just invisible.

More coming about my trip with the Crazy Women of my family. But I love’em so much!

I’m linking up with Story Dam for the Meet and Greet. This is my new writing community go over and check it out.

 

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Why Do Bad Things Happen and How Do I Respond?

Sep17

 

 

I got some news last night that has thrown me off guard. I wasn’t expecting it. My first response was, “What can I do? How can I fix this?” Even today after sleeping on it I’m still a bit unclear. But one thing I know my God is faithful. He is faithful to provide the way through this trial. He is faithful to give wisdom and guidance. He is faithful to comfort, hold and love us through this time. He is faithful to help us see that we are victors not victims.

Through all of life many things are uncertain, circumstances sway, people fail, and we doubt. But Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever! Nothing about Him is uncertain, He never sways in His promises and He has never nor will He ever fail us in any way. In fact my doubt is only overcome by the faith Jesus has placed in me. Everything is about this
wonderful Savior.

Life comes at us hard sometimes. We look around and see others living what appear to be easy lives and we wonder why not me? I’ve thought about this, prayed about it, and been on my face looking for answers. I needed answers when disease and death struck, when depression paralyzed, when the bottom fell out, when I got news of family abuse, when suicide traumatized and the list goes on and on.

And God, the God of compassion and comfort, the Father of my heart, the lover of my soul, the lifter of my head, He answered me over and over again.

In this world people have free will and because of that many choose to sin and wreak havoc. Sin reigns here because this is a fallen world and since this world is fallen it is filled with toxins, poisons and environmental disasters that cause awful disease. And because sin runs rampant we bring the consequences of sin upon ourselves and others. We reap what we sow.  We are killing ourselves, our relationships and our families all on our own. Satan tempts us to fall to his wiles and because we aren’t allowing Jesus to be strong in us we fall to his temptations thus bringing pain and suffering.  Natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, tsunamis and tornados destroy land, property and life. The Bible tells us believers  will have troubles, a true
statement. We will be persecuted for our faith. 2 Timothy 3:12 Christians are tortured daily because they choose to stand for Christ.

So it is not a mystery as to why bad things happen it’s in the accepting of and dealing with the bad things that comes the problem. What I have come to know as truth is Romans 8:28, “For all things work for the good of those who are called according to His purpose…” He will always bring glory to Himself out of every awful situation that  makes its way into my life. Maybe I won’t see the results in every situation but I believe when God promises, He fulfills.

The only thing that has brought me through to the other side of pain is His love, His abounding grace, His power through His Spirit, His people and His faith in me giving me the perseverance to go on in this life. God says He will never leave nor forsake me and even when circumstances look different He has proven to me I am not without Him…. ever.

My life is a testimony of praise to my God and Savior Jesus Christ. I am thankful His love never stops or changes no matter how many times I doubt or question the circumstances around me.

 

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Darlene’s Thankful Tuesday: Join In!

Sep20

My friend Darlene Minshew wrote this thankful list for Thankful Tuesday and I just had to share it with you. Please feel free to share something or someone you are thankful for in the comments below.

1) I’m thankful I live in a country that women experience freedom in and have the
right to vote. I think we have forgotten that this freedom did not come easy and
many women suffered for us to have it.

2) I’m thankful that I stopped rebelling against God and now have
the family and life he intended for me to have.
3) I’m thankful my rebellion didn’t kill me or worse.
4) I’m thankful I have real friends. Notice the word real. Ladies who love
me anyway, and help me when I ‘m wrong. Thanks for being one of those
friends.
5) I am thankful for having parents who
have stayed together and place God first in their marriage. I am one of the rare
few in this age who can be thankful for this.
6) I am thankful that God revealed his grace to me and I now have
peace.
7) I am thankful for a husband who loves me no matter what and finds me
beautiful despite my many flaws.
8) I am thankful God has provided for my family during this time of
economic unrest.
9) I am thankful for music,books, and the occasional girlie movie. Sometimes I need to be reminded it is okay to be girlie and crying is good, not a sign of being weak or
defeated.
10) I am thankful God has introduced me to women who are not ashamed of
their past, but instead speak up to help others. I am thankful to be part of a
group of people who have learned to love others.
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Women and Bears

Sep22

My trip to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge with my sister-in-laws and mother-in-law was a blast. A hilarious blast! While Control Freak drove us home, I sat in the front holding on to the seat. We rounded the mountains right on the edge and I feared Bug Hater would grab Control Freak’s hair pulling it out causing her to go off the side. Bug Hater was even more terrified than me and yelled from the back seat constantly “watch out”, “slow down”, “he’s putting on his brakes!”. She offered to drive but none of us would have had the nerves to handle it. Bug Hater doesn’t like to drive far past her front door so we were sure the Blue Ridge Mountains just wasn’t the right place for her to begin getting her feet wet.

Big Mama didn’t drive home because she didn’t feel well. She got in
the very backseat and when she wasn’t puffin’ and talkin’ she was sleepin’ and
snorin’. Sweet Talker shared her wisdom all the way and no kidding she really
has a lot of it. And where most women won’t or don’t give their wise secrets
away, Sweet Talker shares in abundance. I love her for her willingness to talk
through all the twists, turns, close calls, yelling, snoring, and phone
calls.

On the way down one of the mountains cars began slowing down and
we came to a stop. Control Freak said, “There’s something going on up there.
Julie roll down the window and get your camera ready.”

As we moved closer
we saw people out of their cars standing near a tree. Some had cameras, some
pointing up and all looking up in the tree. I had my camera ready and as we drove by this is what we saw.

 

 

 

 

Yep it was a mama bear and two cubs. As we drove by the mama bear was on her way down and  people stood by taking pics at the bottom of the tree! I suppose they didn’t watch the
documentary about a mama bear protecting her cubs when she feels they are threatened. Control Freak needing to tell someone what to do made sure to yell out the window,” You better get out of there! That mama bear is gonna attack to protect her babies.” Then we drove on by.
This was an amazing experience for me. Wildlife just living life right out loud for everyone to see.
Reminds me that I should be living my life for Jesus right out loud for everyone to see. This is my heart. May I go about life allowing Him to live, love and laugh in and though me. Out loud. No hiding who I am.
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September 11th Did Anything Good Come After?

Sep24

 

 

September 11, 2001 brought terror, fear, hate, death and grief. But somehow through all the devastation unity, love, life, loyalty and faith prevailed. How could so much good come from such a horrible disaster? It could only be God.

Christians along with other Americans from all over our country pulled together to help the hurting. We administered medical care, delivered supplies, fed the hungry, gave financially, and prayed for the lost and injured victims.  Though we too were in tremendous pain Christ in us moved us in love and compassion toward others. “The Spirit of God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the afflicted, He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to captives and freedom to prisoners.” This is prophecy about Jesus, however Christ in us produces the same results when we surrender to let Him live in and through us. During 9/11 believers brought those words to life.

Sujo John remembers being trapped that day inside the first Twin Tower. As he stood huddled up against a wall with 20 other people he began to call out to Jesus. When he did this the others
called upon the name of the Lord.

John recalls during an interview with CBN, “I heard them call the name of the Lord with me, Imagine this building going down, tremendous roar of the building going down, but for me what is etched in my mind is not really the roar of the building going down but the cry of these people reaching out to the eternal God.”

John was the only survivor from his group on this grisly day in September. From this experience he realized people were ready to know God. So he and wife began traveling around the country telling their story of survival. Their ministry has reached thousands and over 30,000 people have called upon the name of the Lord and been saved. Can I just say Hallelujah!

Our compassionate Father is using John to bring the good news to the afflicted, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and freedom to prisoners. We can literally see God keeping His promises because in these circumstances Romans 8:28 has come to
life through John and his wife, through their obedience, and through the powerof the Holy Spirit in them. “We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God.”

I believe God fulfilled this Scripture for John and those who were calling upon His name the second they died September 11, 2001.

I believe our loving Father fulfilled this promise when over 30,000 people became followers of Christ through John’s ministry.

I believe God Almighty fulfilled the promise of Romans 8:28 over and over and over again. No, maybe we ourselves do not know all the many ways He has brought good through such a terrible crisis. However I know my Savior and I know He keeps His word.

Even today the promise of Romans 8:28 is being carried out like a domino effect from 9/11. Those 30,000 plus people have been changed through the power of the Holy Spirit inside them. Because of the change in them their families, friends, co-workers, acquaintances, and even strangers have been touched by Jesus Christ. Amen and glory to God!

All this blessing was and is being poured out because of one man’s tragic experience and because our God is faithful.

It is beyond our comprehension to imagine all the works He has done to fulfill His promise since that grievous, horrible day in the United States of America. But I am comforted to know and believe our great God reigns over all the eternal outcome of all circumstances.

 

Scripture references:Romans 8:28, Isaiah 61:1

 

Sujo John’s story can be found here:

http://www.cbn.com/cbnnews/us/2009/September/911-Survivor-Shares-Survival-Story/

My Faith Wobbled A Little

Sep27

Father God,

Today is one of those times I trust You to hold my hand and make me strong in every circumstance. My faith feels strong now but yesterday it seemed weak. It’s not that I don’t know who You are and what You can do it’s my own human frailty that keeps me from going all the way with complete trust.

I waver between doubt and trust. But God, my God I thank You that You know me from the inside out and You even expected me to react the way I did yesterday. It is comforting to know that Jesus sits at Your right hand NOW making intercession for me, maybe cleaning up my curiously
worded prayers so they are perfect by the time You hear them.

And I know what I want to happen today. I know what I want the outcome to be and I want
You to hear and answer my prayer, but will You? Yes! You will hear and answer according to our best interest and based on Your big, big love for us.

Father because I have confidence that Your Word is true and it tells me that when I don’t know exactly what or how to pray the Spirit intercedes for me with groanings too deep for words I can have peace. Oh God You know very well how my heart hurts at the possibilities with this situation so to have the Spirit pray for me strengthens me, builds my trust once again.

Your love letter to me reassures me that I am never alone and today, this very moment as I know I will hear news that could change our lives but Your Word gives me confidence that with You we can come out more than conquerors.

Isaiah 43:2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be
scorched, Nor will the flame burn you.

I will leave in a few minutes and I am built up, full of truth, clothed with Christ and armed with Your protection. You are my good and beautiful God and my heart is in Your hands.

Scripture references: Romans 8:37, Romans 8:26, Romans 8:34

 

I’m linking up with Women Living Well  Wednesdays.

Letting Go by Jennifer Hembree

Sep28

Welcome Jennifer Hembree once again this afternoon. Jennifer has a heart for women and helping them discover God’s love and grace. Enjoy this post she’s blessed us with today.

 

Nobody can go back and create a new beginning. But everyone can
start now and create a new ending.

I recently passed this reality on to someone  battling a miserable, angry, and depressed self.
The truth is, God doesn’t want us to be bound by our past hurts, suffering,
regrets, and poor choices. Through prayer and spending time in God’s Word, He showed
me these insights:

 

God wants to set us free: The light of Christ can penetrate the
darkness of the past.

We have to choose to forgive and surrender our hurts. We are not designed to carry anger and bitterness. He wants to carry our burdens for us!

 

God doesn’t want us to live with regrets. When we put our cares in His hands, He puts peace in our hearts.

 We don’t have to live with regrets. Christ freely forgives us and can set us free if we allow Him.

 

Looking to the things of this world to satisfy your needs will fail every time—only Jesus alone can truly satisfy.

You can have nothing and still have joy and peace… And you can have everything this world has to offer and still feel miserable and lost.

 

1-    Instead of looking for somebody or something to satisfy or “complete” you, work on becoming the person God designed you to be.

 

2-     Be on your guard to protect yourself from your past sneaking into your   present. It will destroy relationships. Instead, use it to make you stronger on the inside. Forgive, let it go, stand
firm. God wants to transform you more and more into His likeness from the inside out. God had a reason for rescuing you. Trust and thank Him for it. You have been chosen by Him.

 

3-     satan wants to destroy you by making you miserable, angry, hurt, and confused inside. The mind is the enemy’s battleground. If you believe in Christ, in His eyes, you are worthy. You are a treasure to Him. You are redeemed and loved by the Creator of the universe! He wants to set you free inside and give you peace and confidence in whom He has designed you to be.

 

“For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans
to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. You
will look for Me and find Me when you look for Me with all your heart. I will
be found by you, says the Lord, and I will bring you out of captivity.” Jeremiah
29:11-14a

 

He wants to redeem your past and shine through your life to make
a difference in the lives of others for His glory! He will never let you down,
others will, but He never does.  The challenges we face today are preparation for things to come in the future!

 

 

 

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Still Life Standouts Photo Challenge: Charleston Church

Oct2

I’m linking up with Courtney, Courtney and Branson for Still Life Standouts. To find out more about this challenge go to My Reflection of Something.

Katie and I went to Charleston North Carolina back in July. We saw lots of churches. I love, love, love churches and steeples.

Church in Charleston North Carolina
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Who Does Your Tongue Serve? by Darlene Minshew

Oct3

Darlene Minshew is back today with a word from the Word. Upon reading this I have to admit I felt a sting. Not of judgement from the Holy Spirit but it was one of those nudges that said, ” You know what Julie we’ve got some work to do.” And I’m thankful Christ even wants to help me overcome sin of the tongue. He could just let me lie in it, wallow in it, use my tongue for destruction, etc. But no God loves me too much to leave me in such a state of mind.  I am a new creation and should be living as one.  If I let Him He will live in and through me and that makes Him awesome and me special. Thanks Darlene my friend for stepping on my tongue.

 There are 133 verses in the Bible using the word tongue(s). The book of Proverbs 6:16-19 tells us
there are six things the Lord Hates, haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush to evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community. Three of the six involve the tongue: lying, false witness, and the stirring up of conflict. These things our Father Hates. Our gracious, loving, forgiving Father hates these things, He detest them. So I ask you who does your tongue serve? God the Father or the Devil?

Proverbs 18:21 tells us the tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat
its fruit. What kind of fruit do you produce? Fruit that adds to the kingdom or fruit that causes destruction?

In James 3:6-8 we are told that the tongue is a fire, it corrupts the whole body, sets the course of one’s life and is itself set on fire by hell and that no human being can tame the tongue. Have you allowed Jesus to take control of your tongue or does it still work for the enemy?

 Evil use of the tongue:

Psalm 52:2

You who practice deceit, your tongue plots destruction; it is like a sharpened razor.

Jeremiah 9:8

Their tongue is a deadly arrow; it speaks deceitfully. With their mouths they all speak cordially
to their neighbors, but in their hearts they set traps for them.

 Good use of the tongue:

Psalm 66:17

I cried out to him with my mouth; his praise was on my tongue.

Psalm 119:172

May my tongue sing of your word, for all your commands are righteous.

“The Spirit of the LORD spoke through me; his word was on my tongue.

We are instructed through the word of God to guard our tongues:

Proverbs 21:23

Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.

Proverbs 17:28

Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.

The wise tongue verses the unwise tongue:

Proverbs 12:18

The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

Proverbs 12:19

Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.

The righteous tongue:

 Zephaniah 3:13

They will do no wrong; they will tell no lies. A deceitful tongue will not be found in their mouths. They will eat and lie down and no one will make them afraid.

Dear Lord, Please help me to have a wise and faithful tongue. To remember all my answers should come from You. Help me to use my tongue for Your glory and praise. May it be like choice silver, may I use it to proclaim Your righteousness and show others Your love. May I never use it as a weapon to hurt others or cause them harm. May I have no fear when destruction comes, because You can save me from the lying lips and deceitful tongues of others. May I always remember to cry out to You in my time of need. May I remember that before a word is on my tongue You Lord, know it completely. That when I try to be deceitful I am only deceiving myself for You see the truth. May my tongue be soothing, my lips as sweet as honey, and may I speak in wisdom, love and knowledge. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

Wordless Wednesday. Do You Really Think I Could Use No Words?!

Oct5

I’m linking up with Wordless Wednesday for the first time. It will be a challenge to use no words and I am failing at this very moment. However I will still post my pics and hope I don’t get kicked out of the link up.

 

My front yard does not look too great in its transition from summer to fall from a distance. However up close and personal it its fabulous!

Deodorant and The Holy Spirit

Oct6
Roll-on deodorant Rexona "Degree" brand

Image via Wikipedia

Have you seen the commercial about Degree deodorant with motion sense from Wal-mart? The push to buy it is “the more you move the more it works”. Then the scene goes to a man telling his wife they should try it. Next we see the couple dancing at a party, her arms raised as she dances and him smelling her underarms. He says,” It’s working.”

I wonder what would happen if we let the Holy Spirit move in us? How much more would He work? I think sometimes, most times, we stifle Him because we forget the power God placed inside us as believers. We jump out of bed, get on with the day and take on our battles alone.

What if we asked the Spirit to move in us? What if we let Him work freely? I’m just thinking out loud but the thought has occurred to me that the more He moves the more He’ll work in and through us.

From my experience it’s absolutely awesome to know in my heart He’s working.

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31 Days of Taking Off The Masks: Day 8 People Pleaser

Oct8

I’m trying something new. 31 days of posting ina row. I’m linking up with other 31 Dayers who are posting about many various others topics. I discovered this link up today when I read Emily’s post over at Chatting the Sky.

My 31 days will be entitled 31 Days of Taking Off The Masks. Kind of fitting for October don’t ya think? Here’s my  new pic that goes with the this challenge.

I’m 8 days behind but I didn’t see a deadline on when I could join in so here goes.

Day 8 of Taking Off The Masks

Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ. Galatians 1:10

Just wondering do you wear masks? Are you aware of it? I still do after all these years. Still. I say that in a uggh way because after all I’ve learned about God’s love and grace you’d think mask wearing would be something of the past.

I found myself just yesterday worrying if I had hurt someone else’s feelings. Deep down I knew I had handled it very well and with integrity but that “people pleasing” mentality reared it’s ugly head once again. “Are you sure you phrased that the right way?” Did she sound upset?” “You better call just to make sure cause you don’t want anyone mad at you.”

Ridiculous huh? Well sometimes its hard to teach an old young woman new tricks. I spent most of my life trying to please everyone around me, making sure everyone “liked” me and breaking that cycle has been hard.

So I actually gave in and called. Apologized. Found out I had nothing to apologize for, which is what I knew deep in my heart anyway. My friend was not in the least offended or hurt.

The mask of people pleasing is a hard one to pull off but it has to be torn away. I am accepted by my heavenly Father, loved so much by Him that He gave His own Son for me. This mask has to be destroyed in order for me to live fully and completely in surrender to Him. Other wise I will be torn in two directions. Do I please God or men? This has to be settled because God has great plans for me and if I go back to wanting man’s/woman’s acceptance I will be keeping that plan from being fulfilled to completion.

Am I alone in this or is there anybody else who can relate to this People Pleasing Mask stuff? Speak up and share with us.

31 Days of Taking Off Masks: Day 9 Pretending to Forgive

Oct9
A mask

Image via Wikipedia

I wear a mask pretending I’ve forgiven a certain person. It’s a great mask, all nice and pretty with a smile attached every time I see her. But when I see her I’m just not sure I’ve relinquished full forgiveness because I still really don’t want to be around her too much. (No it’s not you)

This has gone on for a few years and yes I’ve prayed about it and asked for God to help me love her. And I think I do. I don’t wish her any harm but unfortunately I don’t shout for joy over her victories either. Will you ever read my blog again now that I have been so honest?

I’ve tried at times to pull this mask from my face but it is attached very well. Tugging and jerking hard it comes off and healing begins then as time goes by I remind myself or the enemy reminds me that holding a record of wrongs is my prerogative. So I reach in my bag and take it out again. And I’m behind my mask of pretending while all the time I’m still in unforgiveness mode.

So is there anything I can do? Nope. Not really. As hard as I might there isn’t  one thing I can do to get rid of this ugly thing.

But there is Someone who can. I suppose you’re tired of hearing it but Jesus in me wants to rip all these masks off so I can be the REAL ME, the AUTHENTIC ME. I may have to love her the way she is, accept her where she’s at, let Him love her through me cause I can’t do it. I might even need to let Jesus change ME.

I may have to apologize. I MAY have to bless her! I MAY have to pray for her! I may have to minister to this woman. We all have those sandpaper people who come into our lives and rub us the wrong way. But thanks be to God He doesn’t waste one single minute of the despair they might have caused us.

Romans 8:28 He will bring something good out of the bad things for all those called according to His purpose. That’s you and me fellow beloved believer.

Masks just aren’t worth the trouble. They hold us captive to being someone we really aren’t. So I say “Will the real me stand up?”

Colossians 3:12-13 Let Him clothe us in His forgiveness.

 

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31 Days of Taking Off Masks 10: Invisible Fear

Oct10

Invisible fear

 

 

Fear is one of those masks we wear but we wear it invisibly. No
one wants to admit to being afraid. Admitting fear means weakness. Right? No
admitting fear means HUMAN. Everyone has fear but not everyone lives enslaved
to it.

Some of us have fears we’d never want anyone to know about so we
suffer alone. In silence. Underneath a mask of fake happiness. The enemy has
you right where he wants you. In fact he most likely gave you that mask and led
you to that place of pride that says, “No one can know about this. What would
they think?”

Sharing about what we worry about helps us through the process
of finding a way to deal with things. However if we don’t share we can’t start.
Tell a friend, a spouse, a counselor, a loved one, tell your Heavenly Father.

1 John 4:18 so beautifully tells us “perfect love drives out
fear.” The only perfect love is God’s love. His love in you, which is Christ in
you, is absolutely perfect, healing, consoling and empowering. His love in
you can and will take that fear away. How? Ask Him.

 

Pray Scripture: Talk to Him

Father Your Words tells me perfect love drives out fear. I
believe You so I need You to drive this fear away, uproot it from my soul and
get rid of it as only You can.

Father You Word tells me that You do not give me a spirit of
fear but of love, power and a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7. I call on You to take
this spirit of fear out of me as it is not of You and empower me with Your
love, power and a sound mind.

In Jesus Name, Amen.

 

A prayer does not have to be long and wordy. It can be if that’s
what you want, but God doesn’t require it be that way. He just wants to know your
heart. How do you feel? How much do you hurt? How much you need Him? What do you think of Him? Simple prayer is simple conversation with God. Don’t make it
complicated. Just talk to Him.

 

The mask of invisible fear is easy to wear but hard to live with isn’t it? Admit fear, bring it to the One who can drive it out and throw that mask down so the Real You can shine through to the world.

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31 Days of Taking Off Masks:Day 11 Spiritual Perfection

Oct11

take off your masks

 

 

The mask of perfection is so hard to wear because it is one of the fakier masks. Why is it hard?
Because no one is perfect and keeping up this pretense takes so much work.

I’ve always known I’m not perfect in the homemaking department, wifing (is that a word),
mothering, or working departments either. But in the spiritual department I strived for perfection. You could call it self- righteousness I suppose. I saw the Bible as an instruction book to follow to a tee and I and my kids were going to do just that.

So every effort was made to teach my two children and myself God’s ways. If we stepped out of line God was sure to “get” us in some way.

I think I wore the mask pretty well as I taught Sunday School and other women’s Bible studies. There wasn’t a clue that I struggled. But I did. Every day. Somehow I thought if I told anyone I had struggles with sin they wouldn’t believe what I taught was true. And if I couldn’t follow God perfectly maybe they would slip off the road themselves. I thought if they thought I had it all together they would believe it could be done and they would keep trying.

Then there came the day when the mask of spiritual perfection crumbled. I didn’t even have
to take it off, it just fell off. My life fell apart from one end to the other. Perfection was no longer something I cared to strive for. All I wanted was to survive.

I made it through with God dragging me all the way. Then He showed me perfection was unattainable until I got to heaven and to pretend was useless. I was finally able to see myself through His eyes and I saw myself as beautiful, imperfections and all.

My God opened this hurting heart and gave me a glimpse of His love for me. I never “got”, understood His love. I had spent so much time trying to earn His love, a love I already had, that I didn’t take time to bask, to rest in it.

After the spiritual perfection mask crumbled I was free from the chains that had held me captive for so long. I was free to be me.

And being me is when I’m the best because my Father designed me this way.

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31 Days Taking Off Masks: Day 14 “I’m Fine” Mask

Oct14
A "What Would Jesus Do?" (WWJD) bracelet

Image via Wikipedia

“I’m fine”. I say this a lot even when it’s not true. I pretend everything is fine even when it really isn’t. This mask is worn by most every woman I know. We don’t want to burden others. Besides do they really want to know when they ask, “How are you?” Do I really mean it when I ask?

 

In this day and age we don’t take the time for one another. Life is hurried and busy, hardly time to eat much less  stop and have a real conversation. Now I’m gonna ask a question you probably won’t like. “What would Jesus do?” Are you annoyed? I don’t mean to be cliché but really what would He do? I see Him in the Bible taking time for everyone around Him. He so unselfishly gave of His time and love. I think if He walked by me and asked,”Julie how are you?” He’d mean it. He would actually want to know, although He would already know because He is all knowing. But He’d do it because I needed someone to care. To give me a kind word. To lift me up.

 

I’m not saying we tell every Tom, Dick, Harry and Jane all our problems but tell someone how you really feel. Tell someone who cares. And let’s help others take off their “I’m fine” masks by listening when the Holy Spirit leads us to ask the question, “You okay today?” If He leads there’s always a reason.

 

I need to slow down and listen when God tells me to stop and care. I need to be open and stop and share. He gave us each other so we could build one another up and encourage one another to take that next step in life, whatever that might be.

 

Go ahead and take off the mask, lay it down, set it on fire, and let someone care for you. It’s not the plan that you suffer alone. Share your burden today with the one God placed in your life… you know the one. Just be real and tell her how you really feel right now.

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Mask Day 15: Wonder Woman Syndrome

Oct15

Wonder Woman! I remember watching her as a child and I always wanted a pair of those bracelets she wore. With those bracelets she could defeat any bad guy that came up against her. Wonder Woman was beautiful inside and out and could do it all with both hands tied behind her back.

As I grew older Wonder Woman really became more like the super standard that women felt they had to meet.  We joked about other women who were Wonder Women but deep down we wanted to be like her too.  Oh yes their kids were perfect, houses immaculate, marriages happier than any other and careers were booming whether in home or out. Every hair in place, time to work out every day, help the kids with homework, cook two awesome homemade meals a day and still have time alone to read their favorite book at night.  And their spiritual lives were right on target. One hour in the morning with God before getting the family up, church at least two times a week and serving wherever needed.

What a life. I mean I’ve dreamed of having such a life. I’ve wanted to be this Wonder Woman. I’ve even tried to make other women believe this WAS me.  I pretended and wore masks for years. But why?

Fear of failure? Pride? A competitive spirit? Fear of rejection? Low self-esteem?

Eventually burnout set in. I could not keep up with the other women I so admired. I tried and worked and strived but failed. My children weren’t perfect neither was my marriage. I didn’t like to cook and still don’t. My house was never immaculate although it is much better now that the kids are grown. But serving in the church… that I did well. I served in every area I could. All. The. Time. My kids and I were there every time the doors were open. However, because I did this so well the other aspects of my life were given less attention. Husband, kids, home, and my personal relationship with God were all put on the backburner.

But my Heavenly Father just wouldn’t leave me on that endless cycle of pretending…

Although I had accepted Jesus as my Savior at the age of 21 I was missing a piece of the puzzle. Finally the pieces came together about four years ago when I “got” the truth of His immeasurable love and grace for me. As I grew in His grace and understood His love the masks began to fall off
or maybe the Father very gently took them off for me. I was able to see myself more clearly and what I saw was eye opening. Underneath the masks of fear of rejection, failure, low self- esteem and issues of pride was a woman chosen, loved and made holy by her great God. Because of Christ in me I am a woman of love, humility, compassion, forgiveness, kindness, strength, Christ-confidence, and patience.

Underneath all the masks and pretending was a real authentic Wonder Woman after all. Guess what? You are a Wonder Woman too!

References: Philippians 4:13, Colossians 3:12-14

 

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Be A Pal and Pop Over to CWO For Me.

Oct17

Hey There Friends! I’m writing over at my other fav place on the internet Christian Women Online Network. Please pop on over and read the feature article “Will The Real Wonder Woman Stand Up.” While your there look around at the blogs and forums. It’s a great time to grab a cup of coffee and sit a spell with some other women and discover what they’ve been thinking about.

 

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Day 18 Taking Off Masks: It’s Ok To Ask Why

Oct18

Welcome my friend Tammy Durrence. She has a testimony that will knock your socks off. And she gives God the glory  for everything. I love her honesty about her feeling as she went through the hardest time of her life. Leave some comment love for Tammy at the end of this post.

 
I went through a tremendous amount of trauma having my youngest son.  Six month later I was diagnosed with Melanoma.  I underwent many tests followed by surgery.  Just a couple of months later my daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes.  While adjusting to these new changes my oldest son went through extensive testing. He was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome.  All this happened in a little over one years’ time. 

 

I had seen God’s hand in every trial and felt his arms around me, but after the battle, I was exhausted and angry.  I loved the Lord, but I did not want to speak to him.  I continued to stay in the Word every day, but I just could not bring myself pray. Then I felt led to go to a women’s Bible study at Eagles Landing First Baptist Church. This  was a huge step out for me especially since I was not a member and did not even attend that church at that time. 

 

The Lord continued to soften my heart  and one day as I was getting ready to go to Bible study I started  praying.  Standing in front of the mirror I asked God, “Why me, why did I have to go through all of this?” That was the first time in a very long time that I heard the Lord’s voice.  He said, “This was not your storm, just like it was not Noah’s storm.”  I of course went straight to the Word, and for the first time,
the story of Noah had more meaning than a man loading up a boat full of animals. 
God revealed to me:

 It was about bringing the knowledge of the Lord to the world no matter what our circumstances.

It was about being obedient when those around us are not.

It was about raising those under us with His knowledge and His love.
 It was about letting His Glory and His Majesty shine when there were nothing
but storms around

In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 1 Peter 1:6

Send forth your light and your truth, let them guide me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell. Psalm 43:3

Day 20: Wearing the Mask of the Walking Dead: Shame

Oct21

Shame is an ugly mask. It can turn a beautiful, strong woman into a frail, sad, fearful, head hanging one.

I once read that shame goes beyond feeling guilty for WHAT you’ve done because it tears into your soul and condemns WHO you are. That’s why it last so long, goes so deep and is so hard to come out from under.

Nobody likes to feel guilt but shame feels even worse. Guilt says, “I did something wrong”, while
shame says, “I am what’s wrong.” Guilt says, “I made a mistake.” Shame shouts, “I am the mistake!” (Excerpt from Breaking the Bondage of Legalism.) I can change my behavior but if something is flawed with my very being I am hopeless. Right? Wrong. Let me make a few points:

1-    As a believing child of God you are not guilty. Jesus Christ died for all sin over 2000 years ago on an old rugged cross for you and me. He bore our guilt and shame that very day. He defeated sin and death forever. Make your peace with the one you offended and let guilt go.

Colossians 2:13-14 When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, 14 having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross. 15 And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.

 

2-    It is Christ in you that has changed you, made you into a new creation. Because you are a new creation, chosen, loved and made holy by God you are to no longer live in guilt and shame. Col. 3:12, 2 Cor. 5:17. He is not ashamed of who you are and does not want you to be ashamed of who you are either. Being ashamed of His creation is like telling our all knowing, almighty God that He missed the mark when He made you. Psalm 139 tells us all His works are wonderful and you are one of His wonderful works. Living under the bondage of shame is like saying to Him He messed up when He created you not only the first time but also when He remade you the second time.

3-    You cannot change your behavior inside or out. It is His Spirit in you that makes the change in you. If you attempt to do the changes in and of yourself failure will follow every time. Maybe that’s why you feel shame now. Maybe after so many failures you’ve given up and accepted defeat.

Oh precious one don’t give up. Jesus Christ disarmed the powers and authorities and triumphed over them by the cross. Col. 2:15 It is those wicked powers of the enemy that would have you believe you are defeated. He and his cohorts use all sorts of things, thoughts and even other people to keep you down.

4-    Don’t let shame continue to stand in your way. Live life as a whole, complete woman because God made you alive with Christ. Col. 2:13a. Don’t live as the walking dead… lifeless, hopeless, guilty, shameful, and defeated. If you walk as if you are dead you wear a mask that hides the real you. The real you is alive to Christ, a new creation, made righteous through Jesus, and loved beyond measure.

Take off the mask of the walking dead… shame.

 

If you have received encouragement from this devotional subscribe to receive regular updates through email by signing up on the right hand side bar. Any questions or comments: gracefullwomen@gmail.com

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Just Because

Oct24

 I’m actually guest posting at (in)courage today Monday Oct. 24th. Drop by and read my post Who Do You Think You Are? and while there check all the other great things about this awesome place just for women. But here’s a short devo before you go…

 

Matthew26:39
And going a little farther He fell on His face and prayed, saying, “My
Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I
will, but as You will.”

I’ve read this verse many times but today I felt a lump in my throat as I meditated on this passage. The thought occurred to me that even though Jesus did not want to drink from this horrible cup He was willing to do it for me.

He lost so much at the time of His suffering but I gained eternity and a love relationship like no other. What kind of love is this that He would do such a thing? It’s the one and only kind. It’s a love that saw me in my sin and shame yet chose to die in my place anyway just because… Just because that’s His way. Just because He’s good. Just because He’s gracious and merciful. Just because He wanted a relationship with me. Just because He thought I was worth it.

His love drove Him to the cross for you too… just because.

New Photography Technique. What Do You Think?

Oct26

Ok tell me what you think of some new techniques I’m learning in photography.

 

This is a church we passed by while on the tour bus through Charleston. I chose this part to highlight because I loved the shape of the architecture of the windows and door. I added texture and did some other editing in Picasa 3.

 

 

This was a quick shot in Charleston as we rode by on a tour bus. I looked down an alley and loved the look. After texturizing, cropping and some other stuff this is what I came up with. Kind of looks like a painting now huh?

 

This is a bridge we passed over in Charleston. I added a texture technique which makes it look like it has rain droplets on it. This pic started dull, out of focus and in fact I took it through the windshield. Look at it now! Cool isn’t it?

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My Space Giver Gets Rid Of Clutter

Oct31

I am an admitted pack rat. My closets were full from top to bottom with stuff and more stuff.
Boxes of days gone by, thirty two pairs of shoes, clothes that didn’t fit, clothes that weren’t mine, DVD’s and a pair of boxing gloves. It had to be cleaned out so I went to work.  All in all I got rid
of 8 large trash bags of assorted stuff and 8 trash bags of clothes.

I put my mom’s small safe away but forgot where I put it. Found it in the closet! Hubby broke the lock for lack of a key and inside was birth certificates, other papers and the contents of my dad’s
wallet. Inside were his driver’s license, social security card and pictures of his beloved children and grandchildren.

My shoe collection was larger than I thought. Thirty two pairs of shoes which include, boots, heels both toe in and toe out, slip ons, flip flops, sandals, tennis shoes and a pair of pink slippers. These feet are ready for anything this Georgia weather can throw at them.

Books, books and more books! I already have a library in my home, now I have enough for two. The best, most unselfish thing to do would be to donate some of my books to the county library. But will I do it? Dunno

God revealed something to me today about closet cleaning and my heart.

I pack and save this stuff because most of it has meaning. When I let go of it I feel as though I am getting rid of a part of my life. However it’s a cleaning process that needs to be done. I do feel good
when I can see the bottom. I have room to breathe. I need to breathe. All the “stuff” suffocates me. Holds me back. When I finally bag it up I’m free to walk in and out of my closet to see everything clearly.

Life is like that too. I stuff myself full of pain and hurt, anger and fear then keep it bottled up till I’m about to burst. It’s ugly when I burst. There’s no room for anyone, not even God, and abundant life here on earth is out the door. (John 10:10) Relationships and life abundant are buried under my clutter. Sometimes I don’t even know who I am.

But when I take off my masks, and clean out my heart of the clutter by releasing it, I can find
space to breathe. Jesus is my Space Giver. He takes the boxes, and clutter and frees me from the junk in my soul.

My Space Giver I love You and thank You that I am free because You take the burdens of my heart and let me breathe again.

Matthew 11:28 -30 Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU
WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

 

 

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Does God Really Come Through In the Hard Times?

Nov4

I’ve been through some hard times in life just like most people. Recently my family and I were thrown another curve ball when the doctors discovered my brother had a malignant tumor. As I went through weeks of waiting for answers God revealed to me once again who He really is in my life. It was one of those times when I could
not depend on human comfort and words. I am thankful the God of the entire universe loves me enough to be my everything in every circumstance.

He gives me His peace in uncertain times.

He holds my hand when I wait for answers.

He understands when I doubt.

He has patience when it takes me a while to understand.

He holds my heart together when I feel it will break.

He is strength when I am weak and frail.

He calms me when unsettling thoughts enter my mind.

He is my security when I am afraid of the things of this world.

He is my loving Father because I am fatherless.

He is my confidant when I need a friend.

He lifts my head when it is too heavy.

He refreshes my soul when I am parched.

He gives me His words from His Word.

He hugs me with the arms of family and friends.

He never allows me to separate myself from His love.

He carries me through the fire when I cannot walk.

He gives me value and worth.

He gave me this wonderful grace, this amazing grace.

He loves me so intensely that He gave His one and only Son to die in my place. John 3:16

I don’t know how you feel about God. Maybe you envision Him as one who is angry, vengeful and wrathful. Maybe you believe He has forgotten you. Maybe you’re angry, hurt, and bitter towards Him. But precious one He loves you, He created you with purpose. Some find that hard to believe but I urge you to open your heart and hear. He longs for you to come to Him. He’s reaching out to you right now. It’s not by chance you’re reading this post.

Romans 10:9-10 “if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.”

If you are empty, desperate, weary or alone turn to this Savior who wants to be new life to you. Just simply talk to Him and tell Him how you feel. Ask Him for help. He will never turn away from someone seeking His love and salvation. He gives both freely and abundantly.

We received good news last week concerning my brother’s health issue. He is free and clear of disease. We are praising our Father for answered prayer and thankful that even when circumstances look bleak He is still God and His love never fails.

Does God come through in the hard times? He always has for me no matter if things turn out the way I think they should or not.

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Life Interrupted by Jennifer Hembree

Nov7

Join me in welcoming my friend and Women’s Minister Jennifer Hembree today. I’m so thankful for the testimony and joy Jennifer shares with us all. I know you’ll enjoy her post today and I hope you’ll share it on your Facebook with others.

A few years ago, my husband and I were enjoying a comfortable life when God decided to interrupt our lives. He changed our course forever when He prompted us to step out of our comfort zone and whole heartedly honor and serve Him.

We decided to forget going on a cruise we were planning and instead go on our
first mission’s trip together to Albania, then the poorest country in Europe, in 2006. We chose to surrender our plans and step into the unknown in faith to follow Christ and obey what He wanted to do through us. In preparation we prayed for God to do something so great that only He could get credit for it. We had no idea what He had in store for us! But, we did know God had opened our hearts to something bigger besides our own selves.

We went with the idea of meeting Joni, a boy our church Bible study group had been sponsoring in the orphanage in Saranda, Albania. Through our sponsorship he received some of the daily necessities he needed and enjoyed birthday and Christmas celebrations. However when we arrived, Joni wasn’t there. He had gotten injured and would not be returning to the orphanage. That’s when the providence of God orchestrated something only He could do.

My husband and I were introduced to a new, 11-year-old boy who had just arrived at the orphanage a few months earlier. He did not have a sponsor. In the same sentence, we were told “and he is adoptable.” For the first time, the word “adoption” entered into our lives. Now, five years later, we have two adopted sons through the power of God’s action in our lives. (More on this story next month!)

While thanking the Father for the adoption of my sons He brought to mind His marvelous adoption of believers. God’s Word is full of Scripture detailing our adoption. The moment we put our faith in Jesus, He forgives us, and God now sees us through the blood of His Son who paid the price for all of our sin. God’s purpose is to undo the effects of sin in the lives of His chosen ones—those who decide to follow Him. We become joint heirs in Christ and gain an eternal inheritance.

Through the adoption of our two teenage sons, I now have a deeper understanding of the amazing love God has for us. He sent His Only Son to die on the cross to defeat evil and give us a way to be rescued out of the darkness and into the light. Our adoption into the family of God is possible because Jesus purchased it on the cross. Jesus died to pay the debt for all the destruction, rebellion, anger, and dishonesty so that He could open up the door to invite us into the household of His heavenly Father. (Galatians 2:19, 4:4-7, 5:1; Ephesians 1:4-5; Romans 8:29; Colossians 1:26-27; II Peter 1:4; Hebrews 2:11; I John 3:2). God, the Father, predestined us for adoption through Jesus Christ!

Alice In A New Land

Nov10

I’m linking up with my new writing community Story Dam.

Here’s the prompt:  Dam Burst- Take a walk through the location of your choosing. Write your piece to include your character’s surroundings, only not through your adult eyes. Show us through the eyes of a child. Things are new, foreign, and curious. Put yourself in their place. Would you know what some things were?

Your story can be fiction or non-fiction.  Word count limit is 600. There’s no minimum word count. Concrit welcome and appreciated.

As Alice walked in the room her toes melted into the fluffy pink carpet and she liked the feel of it. Across the room a heart shaped rug caught her eye.  She ran over and plopped down. Looking around Alice noticed the pink, red, and white striped walls reminding her of candy canes.

Lying down on the rug, eyes turned up she spied the diamonds, lots of them bundled together hanging from the ceiling. The shimmering sparkles brought the room alive with light. It was the most beautiful thing  Alice had ever seen. Her imagination ran away with thoughts of taking the shining diamonds when she left. Mad Hatter from the pawn shop would give her money for them then she could buy enough food for days or even weeks.  But how long would they keep her here? She really needed to get back to Sam and her dog Bill.

To her left she noticed a tall bookshelf with hundreds of books. It reminded her of the library at school.  Oh how Alice loved to read. Sitting up she went over and softly fingered the bindings of the books as she read the titles. Among them the Harry Potter series, Beauty and the Beast, Alice in Wonderland, a personal favorite, and Little Women.

Music came from a small box on the nightstand. The box was pink and white with yellow trim. Upon opening it Alice discovered a small ballerina spinning inside. She
wasn’t sure what made the ballerina spin but thought if the tiny dancer had been real she would certainly be very dizzy.

The bed was inviting with its big fluffy pillows and pink polka-dotted blanket. Alice, tired from the long ride to the house let out a loud yawn. She climbed on the bed and wrapped herself in the blanket. The music from the box and the ballerina spinning lulled Alice into a warm, drowsy sleep.

The dream began almost immediately. She and Sam sat at a large table eating pizza, fried chicken, ice cream, and chocolate cake. Bill lay beside her chair waiting for a snack and Alice dropped a pizza crust for the dog. Their apartment was warm, clothes clean, new and Sam felt good that day. They discussed seeing a movie later.

Alice awoke, eyes wide with fear. “Where’s Sam?!” There was no answer. “Where’s Sam?! Where am I?!”

The bedroom door opened with a slight squeak.

“Alice what’s wrong dear?”

“I want to see Sam!”

“You know Sam’s not here anymore.”

Alice wanted to continue living that dream as she had since the day Sam had gone to the hospital.

“He’s not coming back is he?”

“No. He was just too sick. Sam’s with God now.”

“Do you think Mama knows he’s gone?”

“I don’t know honey. We haven’t heard from her in a long time.”

“Wonder if she’ll ever come back?”

“Maybe. One day.” Her voice lingered as the memories returned.

She watched the ballerina twirl to unfamilair music. Mama used to tell her they would see the Nutcracker at Christmas time. Then she left. But maybe she would show up this year. Sam always bought a present for Mama just in case she came home. Maybe Grandmother would too. Alice just hoped she “found herself” soon so they could be together this Christmas.

New American Tradition for Christmas 2011

Nov14

A Danish Christmas tree illuminated with burni...
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I received a forward from a friend today. This is basically what the gist of it said, ” This Christmas we are going to birth a new tradition. Americans should buy American made products from small business owners or give services from them to boost our economy instead of China’s.
This year Americans will give the gift of genuine concern for other Americans. There is no longer an excuse that, at gift giving time, nothing can be found that is produced by American hands. Oh…. Yes there is! It is time to think outside the
box, people.
Here are some gift ideas:
1- How about gift certificates from your local American hair salon or barber?
2- Gym membership. It’s appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement.
3- Who wouldn’t appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, American owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift
certificates.
4- Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plunking down the Benjamins on a Chinese-made flat-screen TV? Perhaps that grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course.
5- There are a gazillion owner-run restaurants — all offering gift certificates. And, if your intended isn’t the fancy eatery sort, what about a half dozen breakfasts at the
local breakfast joint.
Remember, folks this isn’t about big National chains — this is about supporting your home town Americans with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.
6- How many people couldn’t use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the American working guy?
7-Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.
8- My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.
9- Local crafts people spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, and pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.
10- Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and leave your server a nice tip.
11- How about going out to see a play or ballet at your hometown theatre. Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.
12- Leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.
I do think these are great ideas no matter if Americans do or do not contribute to China’s economy this Christmas. Although since our economy is on the brink it’s probably a good idea for us to do all we can to improve it. And let me add as long as I have the freedom to keep Christ in Christmas without persecution I will be happy.
Tell me what you think?

Is it Cold Feet or God Saying No?

Nov14

My friend Darlene Minshew has written posts for us before but this is one of her best and most personal. Her testimony about her first marriage teaches us a lesson I believe we all need to think about. Let’s welcome Darlene with open arms and thank her for being willing to share so openly.

 

My entire life I had heard about the wedding day case of nerves referred to as cold feet. I assumed that this was a normal experience for the bride on her big day. So when I had a case of cold feet on my wedding day, I chose to ignore the warning. On the way to the wedding my sister DeAnna looked at me and asked, “Are you sure about this?” and stated “ You don’t have to go, I’ll take you home.”  DeAnna had been my closest friend for many years and until that day she had never said
anything like this. God  was using her to give me a way out, giving me a chance to follow His path for my life. And I choose to ignore His final warning. A decision that could have cost me my life.

 

I had decided to rebel against God’s plan for my life and marry a non-believer.  Warning signs sprung up everywhere. I ignored God for almost five years, and ended up in an abusive marriage. The bible clearly warns us about marrying unequally yoked. (Read 1Corinthians chapter 7 for more information on the subject of marriage.)

 

If you feel nervous, unsure, or down right scared take it to God. He is not a God of fear, He will never leave you nor forsake you, no matter how hard you try to leave him. Do not settle because you feel lonely, do not give in to your desires just because everyone else is. The bible tells us in 1 Peter 2:11b “Abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul.” Once you cross the line sexually you can’t go back, you can start over, you can be forgiven, but you can’t take back what belonged to your future husband. If you stick with Gods plan, He will not fail you or miss lead you, and He can not lie to you. He only wants the best for you. He truly and completely loves and values you. His desire is for you to be made complete in Him.

 

My marriage ended in heart break, followed by sleepless nights and  fear for my personal well being. The good news is that God gave me a second chance once I gave my life back to Him. Sadly some women do not get a second chance. God had tried to spare me, and I choose not to obey His will for my life. I now have memories God never intended me to have, and bad dreams that as of yet have not been taken
away.

If God is warning you, please do not ignore Him, take those cold feet and run straight into His waiting arms. He will show you His desires for your life. The bible tells us in Psalms 103:2-4  “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine Iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies.” Please allow God to redeem your life. It is never to late.

 

God turned my life around and reunited me to the man He chosen for my life. We have been married now for fourteen years and have been blessed with one child. On our wedding day I could not wait to get married. The excitement in me was almost more than I could stand.  A wedding day is meant to be a great
celebration the bible tells us that, “… a man shall leave his father and mother,
and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.”Genesis 2:24  There is truly no relationship that can compare to one ordained by God. Never settle. God wants the best for His children.

 

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6  God will make your path clear if you turn your life over to Him.

 

 

Alice In A New Land Part 2- Mother

Nov17

thanks caseycombden.com

The heavy patchwork quilt made of soft cotton lay against Grace’s numb body. The colors of bright red, navy blue, evergreen, vibrant yellow, and burnt orange that once stood out to her now seemed drab, dull and colorless. This covering that once brought comfort gave nothing now.

The peanut butter and jelly sandwich on the plate beside the bed might have satisfied her hunger once upon a time but now only a Big Mac with special sauce, a large order of greasy fries and a creamy vanilla shake would do and only temporarily.

Grace managed to get to the bathroom and turned on the shower. Wiping the steam from the mirror she saw herself for the first time in days. The wrinkle above her eyebrow seemed to have deepened and the two on each side of her mouth were more profound. Her blue-gray eyes were dim and streaked pale red. The joy was gone and it was visible in the face that peered back at her.

The shower took so much energy that Grace had to sit when she got out. Wrapped in a pale green towel she made it to the bed then the tears began to flow. Her thoughts dashed back to that last day with Alice and Sam. They had just finished a pancake breakfast and were planning what movie to see that afternoon. Grace wasn’t sure how to tell them but knew it had to be done because she was leaving that night. Interrupting the conversation between Sam and Alice she gave them the whole lame excuse about needing to get away for a while and “finding herself”. The devastation on both their faces was a thought she had to push out every day. She lived for the day when she could return to them and explain everything but for now it had to be this way.

The small closet was almost empty because Grace kept her wardrobe down to a minimum. She didn’t accumulate more than could fit in her car because who knew  when she would have pack up and move in a hurry. Taking a pair of blue jeans, a turquoise t-shirt and flip-flops from the closet she dressed then went back in the bathroom to brush her hair. Looking in the mirror again, Grace felt shame and guilt. She saw a woman she hated but desperately wanted, needed to find something good in her. Pulling her faded auburn hair up in a ponytail she wiped her face with a cloth and tried to break the look of such sadness off her face. Not much luck. It was so deep in her soul it penetrated outwardly and everyone at work knew it.

Walking to the door she stopped to pick up the gold framed picture of Alice, Sam and herself and gave the two of them a kiss. Leaving she determined to take one step at a time, go to work and get through another day without her family. But first she would swing by MacDonald’s for a Number One and a vanilla shake.

 

Just in case you didn’t recognize the symptoms Grace suffers from severe depression. I have had it myself so when I write about how it feels I write from experience. Depression can be debilitating in many ways. I wrote a candid post about it here if you’d like to read about my experience.

This is a prompt from Story Dam and fits in with my new fiction story Alice In A New Land, you can read Part 1 here. This was Part 2.

 Wet Feet – Write about a time when you or your character faced adversity or received an assignment that required you/them to really buckle down and focus. Describe the look and feel of that person during this task. Try to get us to feel what they are going through. Refer to pictures on the internet or other media for finer details that show stress or focus.

What’s A Girl Worth?

Nov18

The Past- Years Ago

Life’s about making everyone happy right? I try but fail miserably. And do they let it slide like I do when they mess up? No way. They make a point to let me know just how bad I junked it up. I only hear the negative not the positive. The thing is I never try to hurt anyone it just comes off that way sometimes. It’s as if when it doesn’t turn out the way they want it to then I have purposely let them down.

I bury this anger, resentment and bitterness. A hard shell builds around my heart causing numbness. I wonder what would happen if I did let it out. I have on occasion and an explosion erupted. Explosions are not good for a relationship so I continue to bury my feelings.

 

Fast forward to about 4 years ago.

It finally sank in that my God loved me. Oh I knew He gave His Son to die in my place but I struggled to live a Christian life because I was missing something. The missing piece was the love. I didn’t have it for the Father and I wasn’t clear on His unconditional love for me.

Upon really getting a grasp on this truth, my worth and value began to take shape in my soul. I was created by Him for a specific purpose and I was perfect in His eyes. I was still imperfect to the people around me but my attitude changed from “I need you to accept and love me” to “I’m me and you can love and accept me or not.” The chains that held me bondage most of my life were broken and I saw myself as one who had the choice to say “no” if I wanted. I had the freedom to say “no” without reason.. Wow! What difference the love of God can make.

When I began to be filled by Him instead of trying to be filled by the people around me I walked taller, more confident, spoke without wavering, and no longer straddled the fence. I knew what I wanted and that was to be led by God and not what people thought of me. And I went for it.

Living abundantly is not about wealth and riches, although that may be part of the blessing, but it’s about being me, the real me, the me I was created to be. It’s about living free in Christ.

What’s a girl worth? Well God thinks she’s worth the death of His Son, and that makes her the most valuable creature in the world. God thinks she’s worth giving His every day grace to and that makes her more precious than rubies. God thinks she’s worth His undying, uncomprehendable love and companionship. He thinks she’s worth having a real, up close and personal relationship with. I believe that makes her worth everything. And that’s enough for me.

Do you know how much you’re worth? Tell me about it.

Grace Beyond Measure by Nicole Querido

Nov21

I’m so happy today to introduce my friend and kindred spirit Nicole Querido. She is a writer and teacher who seeks to live a life of surrender to God, whose redeeming power and love has transformed her life. In coming to know Christ in her thirties, Nicole’s life story became a testimony of His amazing grace. Nicole’s heart’s desire is to use her passion for the Lord and her gift of writing to share the hope of Christ with women around the world. Nicole Querido writes about her daily journey with Christ on Christian Women Online (www.christianwomenonline.net). Welcome her with me with open arms and love on her with some comments too.

“One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence?  We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.”

Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”

Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”” Luke 23:39-43

 

As Jesus walked on this planet, he was a picture of the love and grace of God.  He would speak to and fellowship with people who others would not dare to be seen with, and even some who would be considered so low in society, that they would hardly even be considered human.  He found value in God’s people, and showed compassion and brought healing to many.  People were drawn to Him.  Some came to Him only for what He could do for them, but there were others who came because deep in their hearts they understood their need for a Saviour and their vast need for grace.

I know my need for a Saviour.  I have known the depravity of a life lived without God, and I know all too well, the things I have done.  I am so unworthy of the love of Christ and yet He died for me.  I see Him hanging there on the cross, knowing that it is weight of my sin (and yours) that is holding Him there. The amazing thing is that it was not by force that He became the perfect Lamb of God for me.  He chose to.  He willingly laid his life down. That day, the darkest day in all of history, an incomprehensible love was shown, and grace was poured out beyond measure, not only for me, but for all who would call on His Name.

There was one who called upon His name to be saved, in the midst of the suffering of our Jesus.   There were three crosses on Calvary that dreadful day, and the conversation between these three men, as they endured unbearable pain, brings out many emotions in me.  The two criminals react to Jesus in opposite ways.  While one was hurling insults, the other was recognizing Jesus as the Son of God.  One mocked Him, while the other sought His mercy.  Both were guilty and were hanging there justly punished for their crimes, but the one who humbled himself before the bloodied King of Kings, in the dying moments of his life on this planet came face-to-face with grace.

I am so thankful for what Jesus did for us.   I am guilty too, and deserve nothing but death, but instead I have been welcomed in to the family of God.  “To all who receive Him, who call upon His name, He gave the right to become children of God.”  (John 1:12)  I, being as much a criminal as the one hanging beside my Saviour on Calvary, am now a daughter of the King.  That kind of love is beyond my ability to grasp, but this I know, Jesus saw me as worth dying for, and He feels the same way about you too dear sister.  If you have not yet called upon His Name will you do it today?  Will you receive the grace, our Saviour so freely gives?

As Jesus died on the cross, His final words were “It is finished.” (John 19:30)  In speaking them, He committed His Spirit to God, and enabled God to look at me and say, “You are forgiven.”  These words bring tears to my eyes, and cause me to fall to my knees in worship.

My Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us Your Son, so that whoever believes in Him can be saved.  I pray Father that Your message of grace will touch the lives of many who need to hear it today.  Thank You Lord, for the unspeakable pain and suffering You endured so that I could be forgiven.  Renew in me the joy of my Salvation so I can be a living testimony of Your love and grace.  You gave Your all for me, and I willingly give my all for You.  In Your Mighty and Saving Name, amen.

Thankful For Forgiveness

Nov23

I’m thankful that I don’t have to get up every morning and make a list of my sins and beg God to forgive me for them. He’s already done that the day Christ Jesus my Savior died on the cross and bore every sin for all the world. He bore the punishment and paid the penalty for ALL sin Col. 2:13-14 so you and I could be free from it.

I mean what happens to those sins I forget to put on the list? Surely I could never know EVERY sin I commit. What about fear? Fear is worry, worry is doubt and doubt is a lack of trust. All these are sin. Are these on the list? Or are these things that would be left out and if so what happens with those sins? If I don’t ask for forgiveness am I just not forgiven and if I’m not forgiven then what? Do I have all this sin still hanging over my head standing between me and God. And if so then why did Jesus even die? The Bible says He died to pay for the sins of the world. If I still have to live under the condemnation of sin and shame etc. because I don’t know all my sin then why did He die? It seems maybe it was for nothing. Romans 8:1 does say that I as a believer am no longer under condemnation meaning my sin is judged, taken away and I am a new creation in Christ.

On the other hand if I know all my sin has already been forgiven past, present, and future Col. 2:13-14 then I don’t have to fret, fear or worry if I have forgotten to ask for forgiveness of certain sins. They have all been paid for right? Does this make sense?

Seems too good to be true doesn’t it? Our Father in heaven is so good, awesome, and full of a love that is not comparable to human love. Never could we understand why He would sacrifice His own Son for us to pay the debt of death we owed for sin. I would never sacrifice my child for you or anyone else. My love does not go that deep for you or anybody not even my husband. But God’s love for us is that deep and deeper still. It is a love that we can only accept not understand.

I urge you to let go of those things you have begged God to forgive you for and rest assured as a believer in Christ you have already been forgiven. Accept what Jesus did for you and know you are whole, not under condemnation and free to walk in peace of mind. Know also that those sins you cannot remember or do not know about are forgiven too and to live life wondering what will happen if you’ve not made amends for them is a waste of time and energy. Jesus has made amends for them. He died once for all and then sat down at the right hand of the Father. He finished the work needed to pay for sin. Hebrews 9:26, Colossians 3:1

Well you might say, “Doesn’t this give me a license to sin?” We can look at this two ways. One way is that you can sin all you want and live a life for the world and miss out on the abundant life here on earth Jesus talked about in John 10:10. But in trying to do that you as a believer will be MISERABLE. You are now a new creation, Christ lives in you and you have a new nature. It goes against the grain to live in sin. You will be pulled apart trying to live a worldly life. I’ve tried and only succeeded for a short time before it nearly killed me. I could not stand the misery of living away from my Father. It’s like the story of the prodigal son. You can go out and party, sin and live in the world for a time and then you hit the bottom, and come back home. The Father is always there to receive us when we come back to Him.

The second way to look at this is that once you realize God’s love for you is sooo great you begin to love Him right back. Out of that love you WANT to live FOR Him not AGAINST Him. He becomes life to you and you live out of His abundance. I’ve also done it this way. I have to say this is the way to go. This is where I am now and my life is the best it’s ever been even though the struggles still come, heartache comes and goes and circumstances change all the time. His love never fails and because of His love my love grows stronger every day. Therefore my walk with Him gets stronger too. Where are you now?

I say all of this not to say you shouldn’t confess sin. But confess sin and ask Christ in you to give you the power to turn away from the sin and thank Him that He’s already forgiven you for it. He has given you everything you need for life and godliness so it is with His power in you that you will be victorious over sin in your life. 2 Peter 1:3

Thanksgiving is a time of thankfulness but I am thankful every day for the complete forgiveness I have been given in Christ Jesus my Lord. Amen and all glory and honor to Him.

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Christmas With A Little Grief

Dec1

Grief and the Christmas season sometimes go hand in hand. Real grief plays itself in every day life just like we see in this story written for a Story Dam prompt.

Alma sat at the large wooden antique dining table staring at her hands. They were dry, cracked and showing some wrinkles. The gray in her muddy brown hair framed her face and gave her the appearance of being older than her 43 years.

“Grief does that to a woman. I mean it makes you age before your time,” she overheard her best friend telling another friend.

Was she aging faster since Mama died? It did seem her mind was slipping as she was forgetting simple things, like where her car keys were or why she had gone to the store. Sometimes she’d be in the car driving and forget where she was going. She felt as if she was in the midst of a heavy fog  that refused to lift.

Alma reached for the pale red and white-flowered tablecloth that lay draped over the back of the chair next to her and pulled it close to her drawing in a deep breath smelling it. The fragrance of moth balls and her mother’s Sweet Honesty perfume lingered in the threads of the cloth. She knew it needed washing since using it last Christmas but that meant the scent of Mama’s memories would be lost forever and Alma couldn’t bear it.

Standing with the tablecloth in hand she unfolded it and noticed the familiar cigarette burn. Almost poking her pinky finger through the hole, her eyes filled with wet tears as she remembered the day her dad dropped his Winston on the cloth.  He and Uncle Benny were sitting at the table, cigarettes in hand, beer bottles close and a broken clock radio. Daddy’s tool box sat open on the then new tablecloth as they discussed the repairs to make. Alma stood in the doorway watching and waiting for her radio to play again. The two men were deep in thought when Mama walked through the dining room seeing the toolbox and beer bottles sitting on her new purchase.

“What are you doing with all that on my brand new tablecloth?!”

Startled by the sudden outburst Daddy and Benny looked up, hit their bald heads together and Daddy dropped his cigarette burning a hole in the cloth. Seeing the cigarette singeing through to the table he poured his beer  on it to stop the burning causing Mama to scream in a loud frantic tone.

“What are you doing?! Stop!”

“I’m just trying to put the fire out!”

“You two just get out of here!” She ran out of the dining room and was back in a flash with a towel to clean up the mess.

The front door slammed bringing Alma back to the present. Alma’s daughter Cindy walked toward the dining room taking off her jacket.

“Whatcha doin?”

“Getting the table ready for Christmas dinner.”

“Here let me help.”

Taking hold of each end the two women spread the old faded tablecloth across the large wooden table. Cindy picked up the poinsettia flower arrangement to place over the cigarette burn as they did every year to hide the unsightly mark. Alma reached out to stop her.

“No not this year. I want to see the cigarette burn.”

Alma pulled out a chair and sat down. She rubbed hand over the burn and thought she’d wait one more year before washing the tablecloth.

I’m linking up with my new writing community Story Dam. The prompt was:

Wet Feet – Just by looking at all these pieces you probably already have few ideas for stories. Use only one piece and build the rest of the story around it. I picked the red and white piece. Obvious? I really hope so.

I Love The Broken Ones

Nov29

These are the words to Dia Frampton’s new song to be release Dec. 5th. She was runner up on the last season of the hit show The Voice. I love the song and relate to it on many levels but mainly because I love the broken ones too. (sorry I couldn’t get the link to work but you can find it on You Tube.)

I know they’ve hurt you bad. Wide, the scars you have. Baby let me straighten out your broken bones,All you faults to me make you more beautiful.
I can’t help it, I love the broken one, The ones who, Need the most patching up.The ones who’ve, Never been loved, Never been loved, Never been loved.

And O maybe I see a part of me in them. The missing piece always trying to fit in. The shattered heart, Hungry for a home. No your not alone, I love the broken ones.
You don’t have to drive, With your headlights off. It’s a pocketknife, Not a gift from God. Don’t you learn of love from the love they kept. I will be your anchor slowly, Step by step.
I can’t help it, I love the broken one, The ones who, Need the most patching up. The ones who’ve,  Never been loved, Never been loved, Never been loved. And O maybe I see a part of me in them. The missing piece always trying to fit in.

The shattered heart, Hungry for a home. No your not alone, I love the broken ones.
Maybe we can rip off the bandage. Maybe you will see it for what it is. Maybe we can burn this building, Holding you in.
I can’t help it, I love the broken one, The ones who, Need the most patching up. The ones who’ve, Never been loved, Never been loved, Never been loved. And O maybe I see a part of me in them. The missing piece always trying to fit in.

The shattered heart, Hungry for a home. No your not alone, I love the broken ones. I love the broken ones. I love the broken ones. I love the broken ones.

What’s This Georgia Girl Want For Christmas?

Dec9

 

What does a sweet Georgia gal want for Christmas?

This one wants her car detailed and filled up with gas. I get too cold standing out there doing it myself.

This gal would like to have dinner cooked for her once a week for 6 months, I need to be giving these hands a break and soaking them in Palmolive.  Think I can find Madge, (Showing my age a little for some of you but if you can figure this one out your darn near or past my age)

This sweet Southern Belle would just love dinner at a fine dining restaurant that she DID NOT have to pick out. Anybody know what I mean?

This gal wants fluffy house shoes. Big fluffy house shoes! Makes me feel warm, luxurious and my dog loves to follow me around and chase the big fluffiness.

This sweet girlie girl would love to have the carpet pulled up in the bedroom and replaced with linoleum. (Help Lana or Tim) These are my able bodied  in-laws who are much like Superman and WonderWoman.

This exhausted  woman wants a  weekend retreat with hubby the mountains. I just need to clear my mind from all the stress of housework, lunches and coffee with friends and reality Tv. It just gets to be too much sometimes.

This southern fried mother wants a Kindle Fire and Amazon gifts cards to buy some reallly awesome books for it. I need to expand my mind and continue my addiction to books.

This half blind gal needs new specs and cool ones at that. None of that nerdy stuff. I have triple focal glasses  now and haven’t been to the eye doctor  in 3 years. Just wondering can they squeeze 4 into one little lens or what will I do? And will it be cool?

This lady needs new  underwear and they better not be granny panties. That’s all I got to say about it.

I love books, pens, notebooks, journals so get this girl a gift certificate from Books a Million or Barnes and  Noble. Perfect for a book geek. Again feed the need.

This is a biggy: I would like my dog groomed. However I want someone else to take him and pick him up. I’ll pay for it I just WANT someone to take him and  bring him home. This is not a have to situation but a dream come true. I hate this chore.

The  most  excellent present anyone could give me is that of joy and peace. And Jesus has already given me that one. For my family and friends  I want                   God’s gigantic love to invade their hearts. I want them to realize it’s not about them loving Him it’s about them  accepting His grace and love. Just opening up their hearts and holding out their hands to accept the best gift in the world. What an answered prayer and Christmas miracle that would be for me.

What’s your Christmas miracle look like? Or share an item from your list?

 

Mama, Josh Groban and Last Night’s Christmas Tea…

Dec10

I went to a women’s event  last night. They played our song “You Raise Me Up”. I sat there in that chair watching beautiful teenage girls dance to every word but I really didn’t see them. I saw you. Thoughts of you encompassed me. Thoughts like “I was so blessed to have her as my mother.” “Thank You God for giving me my mama.” “Oh I wish you were sitting here with me even so I know you can hear Josh Groban belting out this song.” You loved Josh Groban.

I imagined others wondering why I was crying about teenage girls dancing. But they didn’t know our secret. They didn’t know how much you did raise me up so I could stand on mountains. And they didn’t know that I can only be raised up by your memories now because your gone. And sometimes memories don’t seem like enough.

God gave me this special moment with you tonight. I have thought of you all week but had not taken the time to just sit down and remember. I didn’t want to remember the last week of your life, it still hurts too much. But He put me in a place where I was focused on you for a few minutes then reminded me of how blessed I was to have you in my life for the time you were with me. I’ll love you forever, my baby you’ll always be. I still have this book and cry every time I read it.

My Boat Story by Joni Hyde

Dec20

Welcome my friend Joni Hyde today. She is a precious woman of God sharing her heart with women in the church and community. Today she shares the story of how God called her to teaching a lifegroup at our church earlier this year. Joni illustrates that if we are listening God is always speaking to us. This is Part 1. Join us next week for Part 2 of the story.

In February 2011 our church started a program called “The New Frontier Awaits.” This program challenged members to step out of their comfort zones and look for new opportunities to serve God, the church, and the community. This was a monthly endeavor in which our Pastor asked us to prayerfully seek God’s will for our lives.  As I pondered what my “new frontier” was going to be I thought, “well I can at least serve as a greeter as I love being around folks, or work in the guest reception area because I enjoy connecting people to a Life Group” (Sunday school for us old school folks).

I work part time at our church and every month our Pastor has a “Big Group” staff meeting where he shares devotion, informs us about new programs that are being considered in the church, and speaks to each ministry involved at our church. One day at a staff meeting, our Women’s Ministry leader, Jennifer Hembree, asked for prayer for someone to help Co-Teach with her. I quickly said to myself and Jennifer that I would be happy to pray, never considering that I might be the answer to her prayer request.

Later that week I was reading a passage in Matthew 14:28 that says “…and Peter answered him, Lord if it is you, command me to come…so Peter got out of the boat, walked on the water and came to Jesus.” Now, I have read this story and heard it preached so many times that I can’t count them all. For some reason, that day it seemed as if God might be talking to me. What was He saying? Then it hit me, “Get out of the boat!” Or, in other words, “Get out of your comfort zone.” I finally said “Okay God, I’m willing to get out of the boat, now what?”

The Lord showed me what He wanted me to do…..Co-Teach the Bible study with Jennifer. Me? Teach? Are you serious? I have never led a devotion much less taught a Bible study. Have you ever had a moment where you wanted to take back what you said or claim that’s not what you meant? This is where I wanted to swim back to the boat and get in where it was “comfortable” or at least hang onto the side of the boat for security reasons. I was running from God!

Doubt took hold of my mind and so many things flooded my thoughts. I started making excuses about why I could not teach, “God, you know I can’t teach like other ladies in the church” and “I don’t know enough about Your word,” I began sinking. More excuses, “What if I lead someone down the wrong path or give them the wrong advice?” By this time I felt like I was almost underwater…..just like Peter when he looked down and immediately he started to sink. Instead of keeping his eyes on the Lord, he looked at his circumstances. Now here I was doing the same thing. I was giving excuse after excuse and all I needed to do was look up and keep my eyes on Jesus. I was running from God.

The next day the Lord brought me back to Matthew 14:31 and I read down a little further. It says “Jesus immediately reached to him and said “Oh you of little faith. Why did you doubt?” Isn’t it funny how we read what we want and just stop on certain Scriptures but when we read a little further down He gives us the meat He wants us to chew on. Here He is, King of Kings, Lord of Lords, the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, yet I doubted! I was still running from God.

That same weekend Pastor Tim stated in a Sunday message, “We have one foot on the shore and the other in the boat.” I actually turned my feet in as I thought, “Okay God, you can stop stepping on my toes now, I get it.” Yet, I was running from God.

The next week during a summer series class at our church, Carey Phillips, our Ministries Pastor, was teaching and he made a statement that gave me more grief. And what did he say?  “We need to get out of the boat.” I had a lump in my throat when he said that and I quickly said, “Okay God, help me to trust in YOU and only YOU.” I knew I needed to go to Jennifer and talk with her about what I felt God wanted me to do. We talked and she prayed with me. I knew the only way to have peace was to surrender to HIM and stop running.

A month later, we had a women’s leadership meeting. We met at the home of Melinda Moffett, who is founder of God Spa, a place designed for women to go for a day of retreat with God.

There was worship music, praying, and times of learning from experienced leaders in the church. Later we had lunch.  I sat down at the dining room table and was devouring the scrumptious lunch when I looked up and saw in the middle of the table the most beautiful sight! There sat a wooden boat almost as long as the table itself. A Cross! Was this a coincidence? Maybe, but I tend to think, “No, this was God” and it was further confirmation that teaching was exactly what I was supposed to do!

I think it is amazing how the smallest details make such a huge impact. We all tend to look for God to show us things in big letters, huge blinking lights or writing on the wall. However we just need to stop, be still, see and hear what He is telling us to do.

Thinking it could not get any better I found out our first semester of Bible study was going to be about “Jonah,” by Priscilla Shirer. How awesome was that? I had water, boat and now Jonah.

God continually amazes me in how He takes care of every single, finite little detail from the beginning to end!

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My Boat Story Part 2 by Joni Hyde

Dec28
Rafting - Jacaré Pepira River, Brotas, São Pau...

Image via Wikipedia

This is the second part of Joni Hyde’s Boat Story. Everyone so enjoyed the first part so settled back for a few minutes and read about the lesson God taught her and the awesome illustration He used to do it.

Late in the summer, our family was going to go on a much needed vacation as we had not been on one in about 4 years.  I thought this was perfect timing as I envisioned God giving me a revelation on some things needed for the bible study. After all, He led me to do this didn’t He? So I figured He would do what I wanted, when I wanted it.  I was really excited about the trip for this reason. As usual, God had other plans. However, a few days before we left God gave me my first lesson.

There are essentials needed when going rafting.  A Boat. A guide. Life jackets. Headgear. Oars.

Have you ever been rafting down a river with rapids and dangerous waters? We trust the guide as he knows where the rough spots are. He typically knows the river’s path because he has been down it so many times. The headgear protects your head in case you fall out and hit a rock. The Life jacket keeps you afloat in case you go overboard. The oar helps you steer and keeps you from veering off path, and finally, the boat keeps everything together.

On the river, we trust the guide, the boat, the oar, the life jacket and the headgear. We feel safe with all these essentials but on the river of life, we can’t depend or trust in worldly things that will pass or fade away. The guide will retire, the boat will wear and spring a leak, the life jacket will be weathered and won’t support us, the headgear will wear thin from abuse and the oar will break or rot. These will not last and will wither away sooner or later. So why do we continually trust in material things instead of our Heavenly Father?

What if we got out of the boat and onto the waves with Jesus, as He is our Guide, He knows the river and all about us, and He knows our every need. Our life jacket should be the breast plate of righteousness, the head gear is the helmet of salvation and the oar is His word. If we would put these on while we are going down the river of life, when we hit the deep waters, the rapids, the storms and the waves, we can know God is with us and will never leave us.  Isaiah 43:1-5 “

God is with us; until the end. So what are you going to do? Are you going to stay in the boat and miss out on what God has planned for you?  Or, are you going to get out of that boat and see the amazing things God can and will do for your life, if you will just surrender. He has a plan for you, He has a plan for me, He has a plan for all of us!

After I realized God’s plan and His gift of this lesson to me I was able to go to the beach and enjoy His creation and relax with my family.

Little things. Wow! Simple IS Powerful….

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The Resolution by Darlene Minshew

Dec30

Darlene is a friend and ministry partner. I so love to read her heart because she’s honest and real. This post is another example of her willing spirit to follow God. Read about her New Year’s resolution and see how it compares to yours. Thanks Darlene for sharing with us today.

My New Year’s Resolution

This year’s resolution is to allow God to show me my worth in and through Him.  And to allow my heavenly Father to change me from the inside out. I want to let Him teach me to see and love through His eyes.

Over the years I have placed unrealistic resolutions on myself. I thought I could achieve things on my own. I had unrealistic goals for weight loss, unrealistic goals for relationships, unrealistic goals for jobs or school and unrealistic expectations of  future accomplishments. All this based solely on me and what I could do.

My failure in these goals lies in my trust of self. Not allowing God to make changes in me according to His desire and will. My values and standards were based on the worldly influences such as the magazines I read, the television shows I watched, and the judgmental things I heard people say about me and others. I even compared myself to other women in the church and the work they did in the ministry.

Through this year’s resolution God may take me somewhere I may not wish to go. He may show me things about myself I’ve tried to hide, heal some old wounds I have been hanging onto. He could even make me forgive someone I don’t want to or befriend someone I don’t like. God will be taking me out of my comfort zone, but it will be for my benefit and His glory.

My desire is to grow closer to Him, and to become the person He wants me to be. Yes, this will require more of my time and more time spent in His word, and prayer. But in the end if I am truly His, everything He could ask from me already belongs to Him. It became His the moment I accepted His gift of Salvation. “So, my brothers and sisters, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you might belong to another, to Him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit for God.” Romans 7:3-5

“I mean that we have been saved by grace through believing. You did not save yourselves; it was a gift from God. It was not the result of your own efforts, so you cannot brag about it. God has made us His. In Christ Jesus, God made us to do good works, which God planned in advance for us to live our lives doing.” Ephesians 2:8-12.  When God saved us He already planned the works He would have us do. He knew in advance what He wanted  to accomplish through us in His name for His glory.

All things through Christ can be accomplished, if we allow Him to work through and in us. “ I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

As you make your plans for the New Year, I implore you to pray, “God not my will but yours be done.” Use the Father’s prayer as an example found in the book of Luke Chapter 11:2. “So He said to them, “When you pray, say: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done. On earth as it is in heaven.”

Step out of your comfort zone and let God show you His desires for you.

What is your New Years Resolution?

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No Resolutions Here, Just Some “Want To’s”

Jan1

January 1, 2012

As I write that date it seems like it just can’t be! Where has the year gone? I have thought about this New Year and wondering what resolutions I will set. Haven’t thought of any yet. But there are some things I’m considering:

1-     I want to open up this blog to more women. Some women need to write. It is healing. Some women want to give testimony to what God has done in their lives. This is the place to do just that. It can be done anonymously if they prefer. Not everyone feels comfortable telling their tale and then signing their names to it. Will you share your life’s testimony somewhere, somehow this year?

2-     I want to do more lifecoaching. The coaching I do now is challenging and rewarding but I would like to financially contribute more to my family’s income. I do plenty of pro-bono coaching but I’d like to get my career off the ground this year. Can you use your passion or craft to help contribute financially to your family’s income?

3-     I want to get physically fit. This will require planning ahead for meals which I do not do now. And that treadmill in my bedroom, I need to be getting on it every day. Is there a physical improvement needed in your life?

4-     I want to continue to grow spiritually. This year I think I have grown so much closer to Him. I’ve learned to pray and hear God more and I read His Word from a view of His love and grace. That alone has changed my relationship with Him. Pray I continue on this path. Do you want to know God more?

5-     I want to be consistent in making my love known toward my family and friends. I take their love  for granted. I want to do something about that this year. Not sure what yet but I think it’s called attitude adjustment. Got any ideas of your own?

6-     I want to be Spirit led every moment of every day. My life and those I come in contact with will be eternally changed in some way if I did this. Has the Spirit of God  made a difference in your life? Care to share?

7-     I want to become more organized at home. The list here could be ten pages long so I’ll just stop it here, but you get my point. Ahh this one I need help with so if you have a beginning point for me please leave me a message? Help!

8-     I want to motivate and inspire women to live out of who they were created to be. This can be done through teaching, coaching and mentoring. What’s your passion and do you plan to use it to help others this year? How?

9-     I want to read more BOOKS. I read articles and blogs from the computer, magazines and such all day every day. I need to read books. One rule of thumb for a writer to be a good writer is to read lots of BOOKS. Got a hobby you want to pursue? Let’s hear about it.

10-  I read this somewhere the other day, “If you had one hour to speak on television what would you speak about?” Interesting thought huh? I’d tell people God loves them. This confirmed to me what my true calling is… It’s nice to be able to rest in that. The thing is I can do this from almost all of the other 9 “wants” I just wrote about. Kinda cool God. What would you talk about?

What do you “want” in 2012?

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Maybe It’s Not Your Storm by Tammy Durrence

Jan5

Today I want to welcome back my sweet friend Tammy Durrence. She ministers to women from all walks of life and has a family of her own. Tammy shares with us a message from God’s heart to hers. Get comfy and see if you can relate…

          Sometimes, especially as women, we find ourselves caught up in everything going on around us. We are such emotional creatures that every problem we hear about becomes our problem. All this on top of the defiant teenager, rambunctious preschoolers, sick family members, gas prices, and chores around the house. Before we know it, we find ourselves in front of the mirror, asking “Why me God? What have I done? Why do I have to go through all of this? I stay in Your Word. I follow you. I teach my children to follow you. What am I doing wrong, that I have to go through all these rough seas?”

We need to stop and think, “Maybe this is not my storm.” This is something really hard to fathom. We live in a “me” society. It has become so natural to think that whatever is going on is because of “me”, whether it be good or bad. However, that is not always the case.

Let’s take a look at Noah. Genesis 6:8-9 tells us Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord. It also tells us he was a righteous man, blameless among people and that he walked with God. It seems Noah was doing things right. It was other people that were making wrong decisions.

So here Noah is trying his best to live for God. All of the sudden, God tells him one day, “Noah, I want you to build a boat.” As you know this is no sail boat to go across the lake. This boat is huge! It is 1 ½ times the size of a football field, 45 feet high, three decks, with one door and one window! Can you imagine? What do you think Noah’s initial response was? I know mine would be, “Wait a minute God, here I am trying to do my best, while these clowns are over here doing whatever they want. Shouldn’t You be giving them the work to do? That’s a lot of hard work You’re asking me to do. They are disobeying You, shouldn’t they do to labor?”

Noah was completely obedient and did as God told him. He built the ark, filled it with the animals and filled it with the food needed to feed himself, his family and all the animals. That’s a lot of preparation for a storm that was coming. A storm that was not even a result of anything he had done wrong.

After everything was completed Noah entered the ark with his family and God sealed the door shut. They were on the boat for over 365 days! Wow! It rained for 40 days and 40 nights. I imagine that during the time of the rain Noah could not even crack the one window in the ark . Can you imagine the odor in that boat? No ventilation and a humid environment. Maybe the animals were moaning to get off the boat. The noise was probably pretty loud. I wonder how Noah felt?

So what about you? Do you find yourself trying to stay obedient, yet confined to an uncomfortable place in your life? How’s the odor? Do you find yourself always stepping over piles, and dodging streams, while constantly having to feed those around you? Do you find yourself asking, “What is it all for? What have I done but I try to stay obedient. Why do I have to go through this storm?”

There was evil, sin, and disobedience in the hearts of those around Noah before the flood. Noah survived the storm that was meant for those people because of his obedience. The storm Noah went through was not because of anything he had done. It was not about him. It was about God being able to use Noah’s obedience to bring back God’s knowledge and greatness to a people who had forgotten Him.

So, maybe it’s not your storm. Is it possible God is carrying you through a storm in your life right now so others can see Him in you? Does God want you to be obedient so those who have forgotten Him will be reminded of who He is? What if you were so obedient that God chose you to increase His kingdom? What a privilege that would be!

If you’d like to receive regular posts from GraceFull Women go to our Home page and subscribe by email or RSS Feed. Join us in this place where grace abounds, women meet and love overflows.

I’m Posting At Christian Women Online Today. Check it out…

Jan9

Leave It All Behind

“Leave it all behind. Leave it all behind.” I’m listening to these words from Casting Crowns latest song The Well. Singing in my best Mark Hall imitation voice, I revel in Jesus willingness to take all my burdens on Himself while replacing them with His love and strength. Yet… I know I haven’t left it all behind. I want to. I try to… and sometimes I actually do it but then I go back and get it again.

I’m over at Christian Women’s Online Network today so pop on over to read the rest of this article. The New Year calls for us to leave our old stuff behind and find a way to move forward in life. Check it out here.

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Prayer of Complete Praise and Surrender…

Jan11

A sweet friend and mentor sent this to me through email today. I thank God for the godly women He has provided for my spiritual growth. Jan is one of two friends responsible for my having discovered the message of God’s grace through Jesus and my identity in Christ. Salvation changed me forever but it was after I finally understood God’s love and grace given to me freely that I experienced my first taste of the abundant life. John 10:10 Anyway getting back to the email Jan sent….

 

 I want to share a prayer with you by Ruth Myers in “31 Days of Praise,” a little book I have used often during my personal time with the Lord over the past ten years. It’s titled: “Your Most Basic Act of Worship.” There’s nothing in the world I want more. I hope it is your deepest prayer, too.
“Lord, I’m Yours. Whatever the cost may be, may Your will be done in my life. I realize I’m not here on earth to do my own thing, or to seek my own fulfillment or my own glory. I’m not here to indulge my desires, to increase my possessions, to impress people, to be popular, to prove I’m somebody important, or to promote myself. I’m not here even to be relevant or successful by human standards. I’m here to please You.
“I offer myself to You, for You are worthy. All that I am or hope to be, I owe to You. I’m Yours by creation, and every day I receive from You life and breath and all things. And I’m Yours because You bought me, and the price you paid was the precious blood of Christ. You alone, the Triune God, are worthy to be my Lord and Master. I yield to You, my gracious and glorious heavenly Father; to the Lord Jesus who loved me and gave Himself for me; to the Holy Spirit and His gracious influence and empowering.
“All that I am and all that I have I give to You.
“I give You my rebellion in me, that resists doing Your will. I give You my pride and self-dependence, that tell me I can do Your will in my own power if I try hard enough. I give You my fears, that tell me I’ll never be able to do Your will in some areas of my life. I consent to let You energize me…to create within me, moment by moment, both the desire and the power to do Your will.
“I give You my body and each of its members…my entire inner being; my mind, my emotional life, my will…my loved ones…my marriage or my hopes for marriage…my abilities and gifts…my strengths and weaknesses…my health…my status (high or low)…my possessions…my past, my present, and my future…when and how I’ll go Home.
“I’m here to love You, to obey You, to glorify You, O my Beloved, may I be a joy to You!” Amen and amen again.

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God’s Grace In My Great Loss by Kristina Haury

Jan16

Today I hope you will welcome with open arms my beautiful friend Kristina Haury. I say beautiful because she is, inside and out. God has shown His amazing grace in and through her life and she shares about it boldly and brightly. I can’t wait for you to read about this part of her story. I heard her testimony years ago and thought then that it was one of the best I had ever heard. Go ahead get your tissue, coffee and be prepared to be blessed and thankful for this woman and her God.

A phone call changed my entire world.  I secretly hoped for this call for 20 years but never expected to receive it.  My heart almost beat out of my chest when I heard her say “hello”.

It was a Saturday night in June. I was relaxing in bed watching television, fully aware that I was a New Woman – recently set free by the power of God’s Holy Word.  More specifically, by His Truth as spoken by a six-winged seraph in Isaiah, Chapter 6 and verse 7.  Words that I had read before, but did not grasp until just weeks earlier when God broke the shackles of guilt and shame I had carried for 20 years.

But prior to that sweet revelation from the Lord I was certain I was the worst of sinners. I walked with my head down in shame through my life.  Being a Christian since I was nine I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that I had “fire insurance.”  But surely my willful and deliberate sins resulting in heartache and pain had put me at the end of God’s line of Favor.  He had to love the “good” people more than me.

I was a promiscuous teen and was angry at God for the fact that my Daddy chose not to be a part of my life.  I desperately wanted attention from boys and now know it was a feeble attempt to fill the Daddy Void in my life. And I wanted God to know it. So I turned my back on all I knew to be right and true, and behaved in a way that was completely opposite of who I was in Christ.

At 16, I found myself expecting a baby.  A baby!  I could not take care of myself, and now I was bringing a helpless, innocent child into the world.  For the first time in a long time, I stopped running from God – turned around – and faced Him.  I begged Him to hear my prayer for this child.  I wanted a better life for her than I could provide and I felt I was unfit to be a mother.

Our faithful God showed mercy on me, guiding me to make a choice.  The hardest choice I have ever had to make.  I look back on that decision now and wonder how I was able to do it.  How did my heart not literally break?

In my heart I was this child’s mother, and I loved her the instant I knew of her existence.  I loved her as I felt her grow and move inside me.  I loved carrying her and the bond that I had with my unborn child.  I loved her too much to keep her. My thoughts led me to believe she deserved much better than me.

If you are a mother, you know the power of love for your children.  Imagine what it would feel like if one of your children was taken away.  That’s what I felt on a cold January morning when a nurse took my beautiful baby girl from my arms as I sat in the hospital bed.

My daughter would call another woman “mommy”. 

I prayed desperately that she would be loved as much as I loved her.  That she would be the apple of her new daddy’s eye.  That she would always know I had done this because I loved her more than myself.

After realizing I could not live the remainder of my days crying, I decided to shore up all my tears for one day each year:  her birthday.  On that day I pulled the shades, locked the door, and grieved.  I prayed fervently for her and her parents.  I sobbed, wrote, and sobbed some more.

And through those years, God was drawing me to Himself.  He was showing me His grace over and over through the gifts of a wonderful husband (who’s birthday is the same as my daughter’s, and I began to celebrate on that day instead of mourning her loss) and three strong, healthy sons.  I believed He had forgiven most of my sins…but felt it was my duty to carry around my guilt.  I thought I needed to suffer each day for the pain I had inflicted not only on myself, but on my family.

To be continued Friday… don’t miss the conclusion of Kristina’s story.

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God’s Grace In My Great Loss by Kristina Haury: Part 2

Jan20

When I read the second part to Kristina’s story and look at this precious picture tears fill my eyes as I am reminded of how great, graceful, precious our God really is to us. But it also thrills my soul to no end at the love He has for us, a love that  knows no bounds. A love that answers the prayers of a hurting mother’s heart and a longing daughter’s dreams. Oh how blessed we are to have Jesus. Thank you Kristina for sharing your journey.

Jesus shows up sometimes, you know?  He just walks right in and wipes the smudges off your Spiritual Glasses so you can see.  And that’s exactly what He did for me.  He showed me Isaiah 6:1-8 and impressed on me that I was to memorize the whole passage.  For six months I recited it while I was drying my hair, washing dishes, driving, etc.  But I could not discern what exactly He had for me in those verses.  Verse 8 is where God asks Isaiah “who will go for us?  Whom shall we send?”  And Isaiah replies, “Here am I, send me.”  I figured I was supposed to go on a mission trip…so I signed up!  I thought I would have peace regarding that verse now, but still I felt the constant urging of the Spirit to recite it.

Then one day as I recited verse 7 “see, your guilt is taken away and your sins atoned for” He wiped the smudges off my Spiritual Glasses and I saw the truth! The guilt I was picking up and carrying around every day, my “righteous” guilt was TAKEN AWAY.

Let me just say here, that I felt 172 million times lighter immediately!  I felt instantly like a new creation.  It was like a fog lifted, and a weight came off my shoulders. I imagined I could hear the shackles unbuckling and falling on the floor with a loud clang!  I knew in that moment Amazing Grace.  I knew Him….and who I am because of His grace: chosen, holy, and dearly loved.  Glory!!!!

About a month later, walking with my head held high because of the Redeeming Blood of Jesus, I had a Bible Study homework assignment called The Dare Prayer.  It asked me to think about what I wasn’t praying about.  What I was holding back or keeping from God in prayer.  My first reaction was that I prayed about everything…I mean, I had a newfound freedom and was head over heels in love with my Savior.  I surely wasn’t holding anything back.

The Holy Spirit showed me what it was.

Although I had prayed for 20 years for my daughter given up for adoption, I had not prayed about my heart’s desire: to know her.  I was simply afraid His answer might be, “No.”

My precious friend who was leading that Bible Study offered to pray for me what I could not pray.  She got down on my living room floor and boldly prayed that God would reunite me with my daughter and that we would be a family.

I thought lightning was going to strike my coffee table as she prayed!  She spoke the words that were in my heart, but unspeakable.  It was amazing and scary – and there it was, at the feet of Jesus.  I was left to await His answer.

It came at 10:00 on a random Saturday night as I sat in my bed watching Animal Planet.  I answered the phone, and the voice on the other end of the line said, “I think I am your daughter.”  In that instant, Jesus turned my world upside down.  He gave me the desire of my heart, and I will never stop praising Him for it.

I would love to have time to tell you every single thing that has happened since that moment.  The moment that left me speechless, but my heart shouting, “Jesus, what have you just done for me??????”  Never have I felt so adored.  He came down, poured out overwhelming blessing, and gave me a kiss.  It was the God of the Universe, the Creator, saying, “I see you. I love you, and you are precious in My sight.”

My daughter and I are indeed a family now.  God answered every prayer I lifted up over her 20 years:  she has a mother who is wise, strong, loving, and essentially perfect.  He gave her a father who cherishes her and lights up whenever she walks in the room, and cries when he talks about her.  She loves Jesus.  She has been afforded opportunities every girl dreams about.  And we are all a family.

I would never have imagined this – the plan God had in mind all along.  For that reason one of my favorite verses is Ephesians 3:20-21 which says, “Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly, abundantly beyond all that we ask or think according to the power at work within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever, Amen.”

This June, four years after our first phone conversation (which lasted 1.5 hours!), I will attend my daughter’s wedding.  My three sons and my niece will be in the wedding party.  If I stop and think about it, I just fall all to pieces.  And I stand in awe of God’s mercy and grace.

He is able to do exceedingly, abundantly beyond all you could ask or think.  He still moves stones.  He brings darkness to light.  He still creates beauty from ashes.  I pray you will see His hand moving in your life and be amazed in the presence of the Almighty God!

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When Bad Things Happen To Young Girls by Anonymous

Jan24

When I began asking women to give their testimonies I had no idea where God would take it. Today’s testimony is raw, real, with some tough words and hard content. Read it with the knowledge that this world belongs to the enemy and horrible things happen to good people. But remember too that our great God brings good out of all things for those who love Him. Romans 8:28. My friend wishes to remain anonymous but just know her life is a blessing to all who know her and Jesus shines brightly through this beautiful godly woman. He truly has made beauty from ashes.

When I was a young girl I put myself in a really bad position, the result of which ended in being raped. This event in my life happened over twenty years ago and until recently I thought I had completely healed. Until I ran into the step brother of the man who had committed this horrible act upon my person; in of all places church.

I was what you would call a church girl. I became a Christian at a very young age and was very active in church when this event happened in my life. My family never talked to me about sex. My father never warned me about men. Instead I was accused of things I hadn’t been doing. To be completely honest I was not even interested in most of the things I was accused of. Hanging out with the wrong kind of people having sex, using drugs, and drinking alcohol just wasn’t my thing. I heard a lot about “whores”, that was what my family called my friends who were sexually active. Pretty judgmental for a preacher, isn’t it.

I decided at the age of sixteen if I was going to be accused of these things I should try to find out what they were all about. Not too smart for a church girl huh? I completely tried to block out the voice of God. To be honest it didn’t work, it just got louder and louder. His voice of warning was everywhere. I started acting like the world. Began smoking pot, hanging out in bars, (I looked much older than my age and had no problem going to places I shouldn’t have been), and got curious about sex. I thought, ”If I’m going to be accused of doing it, I might as well do it.’

I had been talking to a guy, well man, hanging out with the teen crowd. (A very good place to find young girls with daddy issues.)  My parents went out of town and I had some people over. I was a victim of a very vicious date rape, so vicious that when I got him out of my house and the door locked behind him, I had to crawl up the stairs to get back to my room and bathroom. When I went to the bathroom there was blood everywhere and pain, lots of pain.

I grew up in a very legalistic home and church. I thought all the things I mentioned above would send you straight to hell and I knew I would be seen as a “whore” so I never spoke up. It was more important to me not to be seen that way in the eyes of my parents than it was to see this man brought to justice.

I have had many friends over the years and it deeply saddens me when we talk to learn 90% of them have a story like mine or worse. No one ever speaks up. WHY? Why do we let shame take over?

I recently asked God, “Can you punish him for what he did to me?”  His answer, “I forgave him; he was punished for what he did to you a long time ago.”  I have no idea how he was punished, but I know the Bible says vengeance is mine saith the Lord. Surprisingly I had no anger that he had been forgiven. Thankfully I learned about God’s Grace. I had been forgiven. Now I am learning to forgive myself. That is what God wants me to do, to believe in His grace and let it go, and give it completely to Him.

What happened to me and others like me isn’t by God’s design. It is by the devil’s design, who comes to steal kill and destroy. I could choose to let him destroy me and stay a victim or I can choose to be a survivor. I choose to be a survivor and let God heal me.

It is our prayer that if you have had a similar experience as that of my friend you will turn to the Father in heaven for healing. Also you may need to share your story with a close godly friend or a good counselor. For special prayer or information about counselors in your area email me at gracefullwomen@gmail.com.

If you want to encourage my friend please leave a comment of love for her.

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My Prince Has Come!

Jan27
Cinderella - Prince Charming & Cinderella

Image via Wikipedia

My Prince Has Come

She laughs with him, they dance .

They twirl and her gown flows wide.

The glass slippers are elegant and perfect.

The ballroom is crowded but they are alone.

He sees her deeply. She longs to see him that way too.

She wonders if this is real or a dream.

But as she moves, body in motion she knows… her prince has come.

He is here. He loves her. He sees her.

Every girl’s dream is to find her Prince Charming but every girl’s dream doesn’t come true. Sometimes she’s lucky to find a good man but it’s never perfect and truth be told never could be.

Perfection in man is a fairy tale. We want our knight in shining armor to save us from this ugly world but it can’t be done. can it?

Oh yes! Jesus is both our Prince Charming and our Knight in shining armor. He came to save the day over 2000 years ago. A woman’s need to be swept off her feet is a need put in her heart of hearts purposely by our Maker. Without the need, the want to be loved so passionately, so deeply, so perfectly, without flaw or judgement we would never seek the Knight. However because we need Him we look for Him and we so often look in the all the wrong places. That’s why our fragile hearts get broke over and over again throughout life. If we only knew the secret to finding our dreams was wrapped up in ONE person we’d never waste time elsewhere.

For those of us who have let ourselves be found by Prince Charming life has changed. We are free to be the women we were created to be. We no longer feel the great need for other things or people to make us happy because the emptiness has been filled by our TRUE LOVE. Sure we waver sometimes and venture back into the streets searching for a quick fix but we return to our Knight and He rescues us once again from the world, the enemy and ourselves.

After a time in the filthiness of the world you’d think He would reject us and send us back out but He just welcomes us and even pursues with passion. There is no love like His love and in Him a girl’s dreams can come true.

Oh yes my Prince has come!