This week has been a wild ride. Wednesday I led my first bible study. We actually had 12 in attendance (counting my sweet husband who surprised me). Thursday and Friday was spent in Spartanburg learning more about how to apply the Leader In Me habits in our school. I learned so much and had so much fun but I am so tired. When we got home last night I dropped off my bags at home and headed straight to church for our class social. Today was spent touring the School of Engineering at USC, lunch and a magic show. I really should be napping right now because thinking about tomorrow is making me super exhausted. Church, zumba and a church meeting at 5:30. Whew! Calgon take me away!
I am choosing not to appear before him empty handed. Although I have plenty of excuses to be doing something else in this very moment, I am choosing to fill my hands, my heart, and my mind for him.
I have to say that on Thursday and Friday I felt very off. I know it was directly related to me not typing my thoughts and reflecting on scripture. Today I was extra tired so that meant I was extra short with everyone. I was very empty handed.
You see when you fill up your hearts, fill up your minds and fill up your soul with his word, you don't want to be empty handed.
You want to give.
You want to serve.
You want to encourage.
You want to fellowship.
You want to give to him and to his people.
At the symposium I heard some really relevant things. Things that I needed to hear in my life right now.
One principal spoke this message to us in a break out session titled "Telling Your Story":
There are snipers all around your school building (and I am going to say in your personal life too). These are people whose intentions are not good. They spread lies, tear people down, gossip, take credit when credit isn't due and are just out to get you. The principal will never get rid of these people but YOU have to get rid of them. You have to live your life and conduct yourself in a manner that is a model of what you expect from others. You have to basically tell them that you know what they are doing and you are not going to be a part of it or stand for it. You have to stand up for truth, for each other, and for the students.
Wow! I was blown away that a principal would say out loud that there are people like this in every school. Mind blown.
But when you think about, there are not only people like this at work but there are people like this in your family, in your neighborhood, in your circle of friends and even in your church.
I am going to refer to these people as snatchers.
They snatch your joy.
They snatch your time.
They snatch your trust.
They snatch your energy.
They snatch your hope.
They snatch your security.
They snatch your love.
They snatch your commitment.
They snatch your self-worth.
They leave you empty handed.
But in Exodus 34:19 God is clear. We are not to appear before him empty handed.
Ladies, we need to commit today to pray for these people in our lives. We need to commit to asking God for guidance in how we should respond to these people. We need to be in prayer on how we can make it clear to these types of people that we are no longer going to let them snatch anything from us because God has us where he wants us, doing his work for his glory! Amen and hallelujah!
I am no longer going to accept that this is ok in my life. I am going to be on my knees crying out to our heavenly father to equip me with what I need to combat the enemy. Yes, enemy. Because if they are snatching from me which causes me to fall short and not give me all to God, then yes, they are the enemy.
Father I thank you today for your living word. I thank you for events that happened so long ago still having an impact on our lives today. I thank you for those people around me who have their hands full for you. I thank you for those people around me that keep refilling their hands when things are snatched away. I thank you in advance for the glory that will be ALL yours when the enemy is overcome. Lord thank you for the fire in my heart and for the passion to live for you. Forgive me for the times I have been a snatcher. Forgive me for times I have depleted others that led to less than their all for you. Lord help me to recognize and know these people and to be a witness to them. Lord guide me this week and help me to glorify your beautiful and precious name in all I do. Amen and Amen.
Saturday, February 20, 2016
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
Exodus 33 - Transformation
Once again, in his word.
Once again, perfect word spoken directly to me.
Tonight I will begin leading a bible study that will last 5 weeks. It is based on our VBS curriculum and it is a VBS for adults.
I read this chapter and think about how I was once so far away from God. I was so far from his word and any kind of relationship with him. I sit and reflect on all of my past insecurities and failures. All of the trials, mistakes, disappointments, failures, heartache and pain throughout my life has led me to where I am today.
Today I feel a million miles away from the old me. At times I do feel that I am farther away from living according to his will than I would care to admit but I also know that the chains in areas of my life have been broken. I am not who I used to be.
Moses was scared to look at or be in the presence of God. Now he is asking God to show his glory. As Christians we are all over this continuum. Some may be closer to being afraid and others may be so bold that they are asking God for big things to happen that can only come from him. Some of us are somewhere in the middle. No matter where you are, know that God loves you. He cares for you. He wants that personal relationship with you. He wants us to be bold and ask for great things.
I am somewhat nervous about tonight. I just want to glorify God and share his word. There will be people in the room (well, if anyone shows up) who know so much more about scripture than I do and have had vastly different experiences in life than I have had.
Tonight I will walk into that room as a child of God, a follower, a sinner, someone who disappoints, yells at her kids, has a messy house and car and doesn't have it all together. Tonight I will walk in with one desire. My desire will be to honor God with my time and preparation for this. I want to honor him with my words. I am boldly asking him today to use this transformed self to continue to do big things for him. For his glory.
Pray for me tonight. Typing here is easy. I can google, spell check, delete and start over. Tonight will be a little different. I know that no matter what the numbers are, God is already pleased. Thanks so much for your encouragement today.
Once again, perfect word spoken directly to me.
Tonight I will begin leading a bible study that will last 5 weeks. It is based on our VBS curriculum and it is a VBS for adults.
I read this chapter and think about how I was once so far away from God. I was so far from his word and any kind of relationship with him. I sit and reflect on all of my past insecurities and failures. All of the trials, mistakes, disappointments, failures, heartache and pain throughout my life has led me to where I am today.
Today I feel a million miles away from the old me. At times I do feel that I am farther away from living according to his will than I would care to admit but I also know that the chains in areas of my life have been broken. I am not who I used to be.
Moses was scared to look at or be in the presence of God. Now he is asking God to show his glory. As Christians we are all over this continuum. Some may be closer to being afraid and others may be so bold that they are asking God for big things to happen that can only come from him. Some of us are somewhere in the middle. No matter where you are, know that God loves you. He cares for you. He wants that personal relationship with you. He wants us to be bold and ask for great things.
I am somewhat nervous about tonight. I just want to glorify God and share his word. There will be people in the room (well, if anyone shows up) who know so much more about scripture than I do and have had vastly different experiences in life than I have had.
Tonight I will walk into that room as a child of God, a follower, a sinner, someone who disappoints, yells at her kids, has a messy house and car and doesn't have it all together. Tonight I will walk in with one desire. My desire will be to honor God with my time and preparation for this. I want to honor him with my words. I am boldly asking him today to use this transformed self to continue to do big things for him. For his glory.
Pray for me tonight. Typing here is easy. I can google, spell check, delete and start over. Tonight will be a little different. I know that no matter what the numbers are, God is already pleased. Thanks so much for your encouragement today.
Tuesday, February 16, 2016
Exodus 32 - Lots of Dots
When I look at my life I see lots of those dots...
This morning I am reflecting on times in my life when there were dots and how I chose to respond to those dots. Many times when there was a delay in what I felt was needed or what I deserved I would take matters into my own hands just like the Israelite's did here. I would do what ever I needed to do to find comfort and strength through my own hands, not from God's.
Those times didn't work out so well.
When I look at my life now I see that it is those times when I have been in prayer and been patient that God has truly blessed. He blessed me abundantly. He gave me more than I asked for or expected.
In. His. Own. Timing.
It is hard when you are in a season that is dry.
No baby.
Crummy working conditions.
Death.
Sickness.
Been single way too long.
Empty bank account.
Broken relationships.
But just consider those as dots. Not a period. It is not his final statement on your life but rather a planned pause.
What are you to learn during these times? How are you going to glorify him through whatever comes from this situation?
Father thank you for the pauses in our lives. Thank you for the times that are not what we expect or think we deserve. Lord help us to draw even closer to you. Help us to be patient at the base of the mountain. Help us to see that you have greater plans for us even when we are not sure of what they are. Thank you for loving us and for always providing just what we need. Help us see today that you are God alone and that nothing here on this earth is too difficult to face when we have a relationship with you. Let this be our testimony today, Lord. -Amen
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ypZH_t_cnPI
This morning I am reflecting on times in my life when there were dots and how I chose to respond to those dots. Many times when there was a delay in what I felt was needed or what I deserved I would take matters into my own hands just like the Israelite's did here. I would do what ever I needed to do to find comfort and strength through my own hands, not from God's.
Those times didn't work out so well.
When I look at my life now I see that it is those times when I have been in prayer and been patient that God has truly blessed. He blessed me abundantly. He gave me more than I asked for or expected.
In. His. Own. Timing.
It is hard when you are in a season that is dry.
No baby.
Crummy working conditions.
Death.
Sickness.
Been single way too long.
Empty bank account.
Broken relationships.
But just consider those as dots. Not a period. It is not his final statement on your life but rather a planned pause.
What are you to learn during these times? How are you going to glorify him through whatever comes from this situation?
Father thank you for the pauses in our lives. Thank you for the times that are not what we expect or think we deserve. Lord help us to draw even closer to you. Help us to be patient at the base of the mountain. Help us to see that you have greater plans for us even when we are not sure of what they are. Thank you for loving us and for always providing just what we need. Help us see today that you are God alone and that nothing here on this earth is too difficult to face when we have a relationship with you. Let this be our testimony today, Lord. -Amen
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ypZH_t_cnPI
Monday, February 15, 2016
Exodus 31 - He equips the called.
As I sit here this morning thinking about all of the people, events, moments, joy, trials, etc that God has orchestrated in my life I am humbled and amazed. It is really overwhelming to think that his hand has guided me these 38 years of my life. It is a beautiful thing to be able to see the times that have been so very clear that the event/result/moment could have only come from God.
There have been times in my life that I have felt that I am not good enough, smart enough, knowledgeable enough, or strong enough to do something. Just this week I will be leading my first adult bible study at my church.
I feel like I am not ready for this next step in growing my faith and reaching others.
But as usual, God's timing is perfect. I needed to read these words today. I needed to soak in the truth written in his words. I needed to remember that it will come from him, not from me.
Whether you are leading a bible study, facing a big task at work, seeking to adopt, dealing with financial uncertainty, or stepping up your service for him...He will give you what you need according to his will.
Lord, thank you for always giving me just what I need. I pray that you fill me up with what you know I need even before I know I need it. Thank you for those moments where it is crystal clear that your presence is with me. Thank you for the times that I had no clue that you were guiding me, protecting me, and leading me to where you would have me to go. Fill me up today with what I need to further your kingdom throughout my already busy day. Amen
There have been times in my life that I have felt that I am not good enough, smart enough, knowledgeable enough, or strong enough to do something. Just this week I will be leading my first adult bible study at my church.
I feel like I am not ready for this next step in growing my faith and reaching others.
But as usual, God's timing is perfect. I needed to read these words today. I needed to soak in the truth written in his words. I needed to remember that it will come from him, not from me.
Whether you are leading a bible study, facing a big task at work, seeking to adopt, dealing with financial uncertainty, or stepping up your service for him...He will give you what you need according to his will.
Lord, thank you for always giving me just what I need. I pray that you fill me up with what you know I need even before I know I need it. Thank you for those moments where it is crystal clear that your presence is with me. Thank you for the times that I had no clue that you were guiding me, protecting me, and leading me to where you would have me to go. Fill me up today with what I need to further your kingdom throughout my already busy day. Amen
Friday, February 12, 2016
Exodus 30 - But my heart is in Hebrews...
While I know that the reading is from Exodus 30, my heart is all over Hebrews 10.
19 Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
And here were are again, encouraging one another. So far 2016 has been a daily reminder to me that we are to be encouraging. I have never in my spiritual journey felt God speaking to me and through me as he has these past few months. What began in August as a random idea to encourage friends through this blog has become my daily mission.
Encouraging someone can look many ways.
-A hug
-A note to let them know you are thinking about them.
-Letting someone know that you have been praying for them.
-Helping someone with the gifts God has given you.
-Listening without judgement.
-Copying a passage or section of a bible study that speaks directly to what they are needing to hear.
I just so strongly feel a stirring in my heart to be encouraging. We need to "spur one another toward love and good deed...encouraging one another".
How are you going to encourage someone today? Don't just look for the obvious people who are clearly in need of an encouraging moment, look for those who seem to have it all together. I bet they don't and could use you to share a little of Jesus with them today.
If you feel led to do so, list how you are going to encourage someone through God's word and with his love today.
God, thank you for making it clear that we need one another. Thank you for calling us to care for all of your people, Help me today to consider how I may spur someone towards love and good deeds through caring for them. Make it clear today as to who in my path needs that extra love and kind words today. Help me to serve the people in need no matter what that need is or how impossible or overwhelming it may seem. You are an awesome God and provide for our every need. Lord use me today to make the changes that you see fit to further the advancement of your kingdom. Forgive me of my sins and shortcomings. Cleanse my heart so that I may be ready to receive your instruction today. Lord bless the people here today who are the encouragers and those who need encouragement. Thank you for your word and for your love and calling on our lives here on Earth,
Thursday, February 11, 2016
Exodus 29 - Cleanse My Heart and Mind
Lord cleanse my heart and mind of anything that is not pleasing unto you.
I have to repeat this on a loop lately.
This week has been really tough. Funeral, school demands, church obligations, and add in all the normal cray.
I really try not to complain about the craziness that is my life. Jeffrey was out of town a lot this week and it really made things harder. It is times like this that you really realize just how much your spouse does. Plus, it never helps when you are both emotionally and physically tired.
The good news is that we have both been too tired to do anything other than maintain. No time to argue or fuss.
It is so easy for negative thoughts to creep in when I am having this kind of week. Although I didn't really choose the funeral obligation, I am choosing to work, volunteer with my church and to invest in others. So, if I am choosing these things I have to understand that I am going to be vulnerable when I am tired. I am going to be vulnerable to negative thoughts and thoughtless actions.
If I am to hear God I have to have a cleansed heart and mind. I can't be going to God with a heart full of sin.
So hear it what is helping me...these 3 simple statements that I learned a few years ago.
Lord I feel_________________________.
Lord you are_______________________.
God I will__________________________.
Lord, I feel tired and just done.
Lord you are my almighty God and sustainer of my life. You promise that you will always be with me and give me what I need.
God I will draw my strength from you alone. I will pray for you to fill me up and give me what I need to do your kingdom work.
I never like to count down to Friday but I have to say that this week I am and I am looking forward to having some down time on Saturday afternoon. But, I am sure something will happen to mess that up. Not being negative, just not getting my hopes up. =o)
As we prepare our hearts and minds for Easter lets start focusing on really preparing. Let's enter in to the season with not just good intentions but our best heart prepared for his purpose.
It's 8:00 so yes, good night. Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
#teachertired #momtired #workingforJesustired
I have to repeat this on a loop lately.
This week has been really tough. Funeral, school demands, church obligations, and add in all the normal cray.
I really try not to complain about the craziness that is my life. Jeffrey was out of town a lot this week and it really made things harder. It is times like this that you really realize just how much your spouse does. Plus, it never helps when you are both emotionally and physically tired.
The good news is that we have both been too tired to do anything other than maintain. No time to argue or fuss.
It is so easy for negative thoughts to creep in when I am having this kind of week. Although I didn't really choose the funeral obligation, I am choosing to work, volunteer with my church and to invest in others. So, if I am choosing these things I have to understand that I am going to be vulnerable when I am tired. I am going to be vulnerable to negative thoughts and thoughtless actions.
If I am to hear God I have to have a cleansed heart and mind. I can't be going to God with a heart full of sin.
So hear it what is helping me...these 3 simple statements that I learned a few years ago.
Lord I feel_________________________.
Lord you are_______________________.
God I will__________________________.
Lord, I feel tired and just done.
Lord you are my almighty God and sustainer of my life. You promise that you will always be with me and give me what I need.
God I will draw my strength from you alone. I will pray for you to fill me up and give me what I need to do your kingdom work.
I never like to count down to Friday but I have to say that this week I am and I am looking forward to having some down time on Saturday afternoon. But, I am sure something will happen to mess that up. Not being negative, just not getting my hopes up. =o)
As we prepare our hearts and minds for Easter lets start focusing on really preparing. Let's enter in to the season with not just good intentions but our best heart prepared for his purpose.
It's 8:00 so yes, good night. Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
#teachertired #momtired #workingforJesustired
Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Exodus 28 - What A Day...
So I got up a little late. I spent some time snuggled up to the hubs while he was fast asleep, praying for him and his day. I started doing this last year and it really is a good way to start the day. I don't do it all of the time but at least a few times a week.
Anyhoo... I was running late but wanted to make the girls a nice breakfast which took way longer than I had anticipated. No big deal, I would get ready and have 15 minutes to type out some ideas.
Wrong.
After Abby passed out after falling down the stairs I noticed that the dog decided it was too cold to poop outside so the hall would do. And then the very sweet and sleepy hubs would be in bed with poop on his foot. Tracked from the hall to the bed. So sheets were washed, carpets cleaned and all before 6:30 am.
I am proud to report that we all managed to gather our wits and get to school. On time. In one piece.
So here I am tonight.
Tired.
Happy.
Grateful.
Abby was ok. The carpet and sheets are good as new. The house is warm. Bellies are full.
God is good even when there is dog poop on your foot.
Good night sweet friends.
Oh yeah, pray for our leaders. I no political junkie but we need to pray for our government and for the leaders in our church.
Anyhoo... I was running late but wanted to make the girls a nice breakfast which took way longer than I had anticipated. No big deal, I would get ready and have 15 minutes to type out some ideas.
Wrong.
After Abby passed out after falling down the stairs I noticed that the dog decided it was too cold to poop outside so the hall would do. And then the very sweet and sleepy hubs would be in bed with poop on his foot. Tracked from the hall to the bed. So sheets were washed, carpets cleaned and all before 6:30 am.
I am proud to report that we all managed to gather our wits and get to school. On time. In one piece.
So here I am tonight.
Tired.
Happy.
Grateful.
Abby was ok. The carpet and sheets are good as new. The house is warm. Bellies are full.
God is good even when there is dog poop on your foot.
Good night sweet friends.
Oh yeah, pray for our leaders. I no political junkie but we need to pray for our government and for the leaders in our church.
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