TJ's Musing

The Climb

2009-07-10T10:06:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken when W. was 5 years old. We were hiking at Acadia National Park in Maine and W was determined that she was going to make it to the top of the mountain. My DH and I took turns carrying Big D (who was almost two) on our backs in a carrier. Parts of the hike required climbing over rocks and going through tight spaces but W. was up to the challenge. Thinking it was too much for W's little legs, we tried to persuade her to go back with no success. She reached her goal (the top), made it back down, and was rewarded with some bubblegum ice cream. It wasn't the top that made this memory so special, it was the climb and W. getting there.

The past few years we have been climbing as we have moved, trained, and did lots of traveling. Now we are ready to go. Looking back, we see how much God has taught us, how much closer we are as a family and smile at the fun times we have had with family and friends. God has been working on us individually and as a family to get us ready. Tomorrow morning we leave for Central Asia but that is not necessarily the end. We will still be climbing as we adapt to a new culture, learn a new language and see how God will use us in this new place. We hope to remember it is in the climb that God makes us more like him and to be faithful to that.

Dear God, Thank you for the past three years. They have been hard in many ways. You have worked on the rough edges and stretched us. Thank you for your faithfulness as we would sometimes wander off the trail. Thank you for your strength and wisdom. Be with us as we continue to follow your leading. May we be faithful to all that you have for us. In Jesus name, Amen

Random Quotes

2009-07-10T09:44:00.000-07:00

I love quotes. I am always writing them down in my notebook and thought I would share a few.

1. From A Quarter past Tuesday , a dad tells his daughter, " Kids, we have roots deeper than the opinions of other people."

2. "Life is hard. You either roll with the punches or get knocked out." Me

3. Tony Evans definition of submission for women. "Duck so God can hit your husband."

4. Romans 15:13 "May the God of hope fill you will all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."

Non-negotiables

2009-06-26T18:15:00.000-07:00

Everyone has at least one non-negotiable. They are found in contracts, parent/child relationships, and even what you are looking for in a new car or house. I was thinking about non-negotiables in my life especially in terms of my schedule. I was listening to Beth Moore and she talked about how as a young mother she carved out time with God each day. It was a non-negotiable. I find often when my schedule gets busy or I get up late, I am tempted to forgo my time with God. When I do neglect this time, I miss walking fully in His strength. I may even miss some wisdom that would help with the problems that arise during the day. When I do take the time, I find things don't necessarily go better but I do realize I am not alone. Most of all, the fruit of the Spirit is more likely to evident in my interactions.

In the weeks ahead our schedule will be crazy but I am planning on making my time with God a non-negotiable for each day. It won't be easy and I won't be doing it on my own strength. Each day I have a choice. I just need to make the right one.

Dear God, Thank you that you want to spend time with your children each day. May I look forward to my time with you each day. May I be a Mary at your feet, taking in your wisdom and taking time to worship. In Jesus name, Amen

Sleeping Habits

2009-06-24T13:07:00.000-07:00

In the past few years, I have had some trouble off and on with a left sore hip and my left side of my jaw also being sore. The chiropractor I went to suggest I try sleeping on my back which would keep my body in better alignment. It was hard at first but after some time I was able to sleep comfortably on my back. I did find this helped my hip and jaw so continued with this new sleeping habit. The last few evenings I have found myself full of energy and restless. I could not get to sleep. I soon found myself turning over to sleep on my stomach and soon was asleep. In my struggle to find sleep I resorted to an old habit that left me slightly sore in the morning.

I find that something similar happens in my personal life. Good relational skills are developed and then stress comes and poof I am retreating to old ways of relating that are not good. I am sure the only way for this to be overcome is not in my strength but God's. To everyday submit myself to be filled by God's spirit.

The next few weeks will involve travel, stresses, goodbyes and all sorts of adventures. I pray that I will be able to walk each day in the Spirit and not resort to old habits that do not promote God's kingdom.

Dear God, Thank you for how you continually work in making us more like Your Son. May I seek each day to walk in the steps You have for me. May the fruit of your Spirit be evident in all my interactions. In Jesus name, Amen

Thoughts on Packing

2009-06-23T22:37:00.001-07:00

It seems these past few months I have done much packing and unpacking and yet I am again in the stage of packing once again. As I look to our departure overseas, my mind is filled with many thoughts. Will I need this or that? Can everything possibly fit? Should I buy the next size up for the kids in shoes, shirts, etc? I think of the Proverbs 31 woman and how she provided for her family and wonder if I have planned sufficiently. My mind then remembers Phil4 and God's promise to supply all our needs and Matt 6 where Matthew reminds us of God clothing the lilies of the field. To me, it is a tightrope. We are to be good stewards yet trust God's provision. My prayer is that I am doing both.

Dear God, Thank you so much for your provision in every area. May you be in our packing. May we think of those things that we will need to get here. May we trust also in your supplying our needs. Be with us as we make many transitions. May we do so with grace. In Jesus name, Amen

17 Years

2009-06-13T13:34:00.000-07:00

Today is my 17th Wedding Anniversary and I thought I would share my bouquet of 17 flowers with you. When we were dating my DH gave me red daisies once and I have loved them ever since. Tonight W and D will hang out with their Aunt and Uncle while their mom and dad go on a date.

This year has been one of our toughest years and by God's grace we feel like our marriage is stronger than it was. We have been challenged in our communication and staying connected. Most of all, we have discovered that our marriage is worth the fight and work needed to make it what God wants it to be.

Here are my take aways on marriage for the year.
1. Pray, pray, pray. Marriage is a picture of Christ and the church and for that reason is an enemy of Satan. I am in prayer not only for my marriage but those around me. My prayer is also for God to show me how to be the wife my DH needs.
2. My DH and I need not only quality time but quantity time as well. It helps us know that we are both on the same page and see each others heart. Our morning walks have been a good way for us to not only get exercise but talk about the day. In the evening, it is good when we are able to talk for a few minutes and maybe just enjoy some time reading or watching something on the computer.
3. Timing is key. This year I have learned about the boxes men have where things are compartmentalized and they like to focus on one thing at a time. One thing I have started doing is emailing my husband with things I don't want to forget to tell him or even things we need to address as a family. It helps us with the thought process and timing. Also it's kind of fun.
4. I am married to an amazing man who wants the best for our marriage and family just as I do. I always need to remember this as I trust him to lead our family.
5. God is using my family to make me more like Jesus. This means I need to focus on what kind of wife and mom I am rather than trying to help everyone else with their jobs.
6. God is good.

Dear God, Thank you for 17 years of marriage with my DH. May you be in the center of all we do. May our marriage glorify you as we seek to serve you each day. In Your Son's name, Amen

Blue Hole

2009-06-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday my family and I were on a hike in Hells Canyon, Oregon. The hike started off innocent enough meandering along a rushing stream through a forest. A lady had said the hike would be two miles to the Blue Hole and of course two miles back. About a mile into the hike we came to a stream that went over our trail. We would have to go across a log to get to the other side. Now I don't really like this kind of thing but being a good sport I went across. We had three more water crossings so I thought that was enough challenge for me. We could tell we were getting closer to the Blue Hole by the soundof rushing water but the trail was getting a little more tricky. As I looked ahead, I wasn't quite sure if I wanted to proceed. It looked a little scary. My mind raced with what ifs in regard to myself and my children. What if someone slipped? What if someone was hurt? My DH noticed my reluctance and tried to reassure me that it would be okay. I still wasn't quite so sure. He then asked me if I trusted him. I wanted to tell him yes but I hesitated. My DH does a great job of keeping us safe and making wise choices on our hikes. I had no reason not to trust but my mind was overwhelmed with my fears. I admitted I did trust him a little but it was hard. Gulping down my fears, we proceed. My children had no fear. They simply followed trusting their guide. I tried to do the same. I found the trail to not be as scary as I had feared. I soon relaxed and began to enjoy the adventure and the view. After a few more minutes of hiking, we came to the Blue Hole, an area of rushing water where salmon can get trapped. It was beautiful and well worth overcoming my fears. God has a trail each of us are to follow. Sometimes the way is easy just like strolling by a stream and through fields of wild flowers. Other times there are streams and other obstacles we must overcome. As we navigate through what God has for us, our faith grows and we learn to trust when things get hard. Still there are times when we look ahead and we freeze. The path ahead is unknown. It looks scary. Our mind is full of worries real and imagined. God asks us as my DH did, "Do you trust me?" Do I trust Him? The obvious answer is yes. How can you not trust God? But you hesitate. You want to believe and even voice your concern. It is then that God takes us by the hand and leads us through the unknown proving his faithfulness once again. The days ahead for us are full of the unknown. At this time, I am not fearful but am able to trust in God who has seen us through thus far. Yet I know myself and know I will be faced with the question of "do you trust me?" again and again. In those unknown situations I hope to cling to the promise found in Isaiah 43:2. " When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze."

Dear God, Thank you for your faithfulness. Thank you for loving me and taking me by the hand even when I doubt. May I remember perfect peace is found only in trusting you. Amen

My Shadow

2009-05-27T20:59:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading a series by Karen Hanock called Legends of the Guardian King. The books were allegorical fantasies loaded with adventure. One take away I had from the book was my shadow versus Eidon's (God's) light. In the story, the main character Abramm often struggled with his shadow keeping him from being able to fully use Eidon's light. Fear, anger and disbelief would allow the shadow to take control and Eidon's light would be covered. Many times his life would be at stake and victory would only come as he emptied himself before Eidon allowing the light to take control.

In my own life, I often let the shadow of fear, unbelief, or even anger cloud the light of Jesus in me. Instead of taking every thought captive for obedience to Christ (IICor 10:5), the thought takes over until it has control of my emotions and I head the wrong direction. Lately I have been learning to take the advice of Is 26:3 (NLT) which says " You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you." As I fight normal everyday battles, I can not do it alone. I also can not afford to let my shadow get in the way of victory. With Christ in me, it is possible to be a pure and blameless child of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you will shine like a star in the universe. (Phil 2:25 with a bit of paraphrasing)

Dear God, Forgive me for the times that I let fear and doubt get in the way of your light shining through me. May I not quench your spirit in any way. May I trust in you fully and keep my thoughts fixed on you alone. Thank you for your perfect peace which transcends all understanding. In Jesus name, Amen

The Main Thing

2009-05-27T20:54:00.000-07:00

I found this interesting post at Pajama Mama's blog. I won't add anything else since she stated it all very well.

Dear God, Help me to remember that the main thing is you and only you. May I seek first your kingdom in all things. Amen

Teacher Tuesday

2009-05-26T19:38:00.000-07:00

We are almost done with school. In some ways I am not ready. In others, I absolutely am. I am wondering what my kids will do with their extra free time. So the past week or so, we have did some on site conflict resolution training. I am hoping some of it will stick. I am praying that some of it will stick.

Besides our conflict resolution training, we decided that one day would be math day and the next day English and then keep rotating until the end of school. It actually has been fun and allowed us to cover more ground each day. They still work on their foreign language, typing and some reteaching of geography but otherwise our time is focused.

I am also excited about this bible curriculum I just found through homeschool freebie of the day. It is very simple study of the book of Acts but adds structure to our bible time. Each day has a passage from Acts, a memory verse activity, and sometimes an extra question or activity to understand the passage. The Acts study is just a part of their whole year curriculum. Depending on our plans in the next year or so, I would love for my children to go through their Old Testament and New Testament studies. For more info, click here.

I have really enjoyed my time with the kids this year. Next year they will be in more of a school setting as my DH and I will be in language school. It is a good decision but I will miss teaching them. God has plans and things for us to learn in each season.

Little Things

2009-05-12T10:22:00.001-07:00

My DH and I have been exercising in the morning with a workout cd. The lady on the tape is always telling us to concentrate on different things such as are we standing up straight or breathing right or even focusing on a certain muscle. Sometimes I mutter at her under my breath. Mostly though I try to follow her suggestions and I find they really do make my workout more productive. I am also discovering I have muscles that have not been used in awhile. A little thing is making a big difference.

In life, I have been concentrating on some little things. For example, what tone of voice am I using with my kids? I have noticed that it is often not what I say but how I say it that gets me into trouble. One part of controlling my tongue is controlling my tone of voice. Is it appropriate for the moment? Am I reacting? Am I speaking the truth but in love? All questions that need to run through my mind. As I work on this area, I am hoping that my conversations with my family will be more what God would want them to be. Jesus talked about being faithful in the little things as well as the big so hopefully this is a start.

Dear God, Thank you for your grace. Thank you for your strength each day to live life. Be with my conversations. Be with my words. Be with my tone of voice. May I reflect you in all I do. May you be glorified through the interactions of my family. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Worship or Worry?

2009-05-07T18:35:00.000-07:00

Which would you choose? Most people would say worship. I would. It sounds more fun and more spiritual. But as in most things, my actions speak louder than words. When I am faced with a hard situation, what is my first reaction? Do I stew or do I pray? Jill Briscoe says that we either worship or we worry. When we worship, we are letting God worry for us about those things we lay at His feet. When we worship, we acknowledge we can't do anything about it but God can. It's funny about worry. By worrying, we think we can fix or control things. But can we?
Jill's words have given me something to think about. My response shows what I think about God. Do I believe He is big enough? Do I trust Him? My desire is to worship but I am weak. As I grow in my walk with Jesus, I pray I will begin to choose worship over worry. It is a lot less stressful and God is glorified.

Dear God, Thank you that you care for all our needs great or small. You love us and want us to cast all our cares on you. Take my worries. May my thoughts instead be filled with worship. May you be glorified in all we do. Amen

National Day of Prayer

2009-05-06T08:52:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been struggling to be consistent in prayer yet I know more than ever prayer is a work that needs to be done. Even though every day should be a day of prayer, it is nice to have a day set aside to concentrate on prayer. My prayer is during these weeks while Noel is in training I will establish some good habits that will be with me as we go overseas.

It is encouraging that I am not the only one who has struggled with prayer. Amy Carmichael, a missionary in India who founded the Dohnavur Fellowship, wrote that she often struggled with setting aside time to pray when there was so much to be done. Her answer to the question work or pray? was this. "The certain knowledge that this is Satan's lie; he is much more afraid of our prayer than our work. (This is proved by the immense difficulties we always find when we set ourselves to pray. They are much greater than those we meet when we set ourselves to work.) "

Dear God, You said that if your people who are called by your name would humble themselves and pray that you would hear their voice. Today, tomorrow and in the days to come may your people make prayer a priority and seek your kingdom. May your will be done as we fervently pray for our families, our churches, our country and our world. In your son's name, Amen

Where I Want to Be

2009-05-04T18:09:00.000-07:00

I get an email devotional everyday and this is one from last week. May we all pray for God's kingdom. I don't think I am there yet but would sure like to be.

Author: Elisabeth Elliot
Source: A Lamp For My FeetScripture
Reference: Matthew 6:33

God's Kingdom, My Reference Point
A beginner's prayers are generally an attempt to get God to pay attention to his wants. As we grow in grace, prayer becomes an attempt to turn our attention to God. His kingdom becomes our reference point for every matter that concerns us. Will this thing further or hinder the working of the will of God in me, in those I pray for, in these situations? What is on my mind today? Let me bring it at once into the light of God's countenance, refer it to his scrutiny, lay it (and my heart with it) open before Him. If I am not prepared to submit something, I am interested in myself, not in the kingdom. "Set your mind on God's kingdom and His justice before everything else, and all the rest will come to you as well''(Mt 6:33 NEB).

Superwoman

2009-04-20T16:49:00.000-07:00

About a month ago, Noel and I were in a bookstore when we found a book called "You've Married Superwoman, Now What? " It was a funny yet serious book about marriage for men. So if Noel would ask me if I could do something like drive when we were traveling or help lift some crate, I would respond, "Of course, I am superwoman." In my mind, I sort of would like to be superwoman and be on top of all things. I could homeschool, keep house, and do all sorts of things with ease and a smile. I think all those things would be nice but my priorities need to be in other areas. Instead of trying to be superwoman, I need to ask if I am a spirit filled woman? Our society values the checklist. God values right relationships and a pure heart. Our society says you need to be the best at what you do. God says to do all things through Christ who give me strength. I want my kids to remember I was patient, loving and demonstrated other fruit of the Spirit; not that I was able to get certain things accomplished on my checklist. I want to be a Spirit filled woman.

Dear God, May your spirit guide my steps. May your fruit be evident in my life-love, joy peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. In Jesus Name, Amen

Upon Further Inspection

2009-03-30T20:04:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago, we finished the cleaning on the rental house we had lived in for almost 3 years. As I completed the basic cleaning, I kept seeing more things that needed to be done such as finger prints on the walls or cobwebs on the ceiling. Each step of cleaning seemed to reveal something else that needed to be done. The house was actually the cleanest it had ever been but each cleaning revealed something else. It was discouraging when I kept seeing those new areas that needed to be cleaned. I often will feel like this in my Christian life. I keep seeing things in my character or my attitudes that need to be worked on. It can be discouraging and overwhelming as if I am not making progress.

One thing I learned from cleaning that house was the need to step back and look at the big picture. In truth, the house was the cleanest it had ever been when I looked at it as a whole. We actually had made progress. In my life I also need to step back and look at the big picture.
When Jesus became my best friend and savior, He made me clean in His sight. I am forgiven and free. Now He is in the business of making me more like Him. He has begun a work that He has promised to complete. In Philippians 2: 13 it tells us that " it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose." God starts with one action or attitude that needs work and then moves on to the next one. Often He works from the inside out. He changes my heart so that I no longer have the desire to do things I once did that were displeasing to him. When God truly works it is a life change not just some legalistic guidelines. I can get discouraged at all the work that still needs to be done or I can be encouraged that I am a child of the king who is forgiven and precious in God's sight. With a proper perspective, I am better able to handle the molding that is taking place in my life.

Dear God, Thank you for your continuing work in me. Thank you for your forgiveness. May I conform my will to your will. May I get rid of those things in my life that get in the way of your light shining. In your son's name, Amen

Great Article on Marriage

2009-03-12T08:23:00.001-07:00

The Family Room - March 2009 - FamilyLife.com

Just thought I would share this article. It was an encouragement to me to choose God in all things and let Him work giving the enemy no foothold.

Dear God, Be with marriages today as they are under attack. May we be lights in our interactions so that others will be drawn to you. Amen

Pulling Weeds

2009-03-10T16:04:00.000-07:00

Today my daughter and I were weeding some flower beds. We enjoyed being outside and my daughter loved having an excuse to play in the dirt. The beds had been weeded in the Fall, but somehow the weeds had survived the winter and were thriving. In fact when we pulled them up their root systems were extensive making it impossible to get all of the roots. It got me to thinking of all the weeds I that can grow up in my life such as bitterness, jealousy, or anger. If I do not weed these things out of my life right away, they are hard to get rid of and come back again and again. Hebrews 12:15 tells us "See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many." I am to see that bitterness does not take root in me.

When my DH and I were first married, he was a youth and music guy at a small church. One evening I received a call from a lady who attended the church who accused me of things that I had not done. I was distraught. I had a choice - give it to God and let it go or harbor bitterness toward this woman. At the time, I would not have called it harboring bitterness. My thoughts would have been "I can't believe she said that" or something to that effect. The root of bitterness often takes affect without us knowing it. In this case, I was surrounded by people who helped me choose to give it to God and let it go. Now when I look back, I have no hard feelings.

A bitter root is often a tape of past offenses and words said that plays again and again; past offenses and words that should have been forgiven and forgotten. Instead of sharing God's grace I spread seeds of bitterness. This weed needs to be pulled out, even if it is painful. How much easier if the weed had never taken root and been allowed to grow.

The key to keeping bitterness from taking root is found in Jeremiah 17:7-8. "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit." When I am truly trusting in the LORD, what someone says or does will not affect me in the same way. I will be remembering that all things are in God's hands. I will have confidence that God will be there and will take care of me. As His child, I can then concentrate on being the tree that has roots growing deep and never fails to bear fruit.

Dear God, Thank you for your grace. May I share your grace with all those you send my way. Help no bitter root to grow in me whatever the circumstances. Instead let me be a tree firmly planted and grows deep roots and never fails to bear fruit. It is only possible with your Spirit In Jesus name, Amen

Mini Skirts, Mothers and Muslims

2009-03-07T11:08:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I finished a book called Mini Skirts, Mothers and Muslims. When my family moves over seas my daughter and I will be dressing differently then we do here. We will have a head covering and other adjustments. By doing this, we will show we are modest women. The author of the book tells the whys behind the dress code and gives insight into other aspects of Muslim culture that will be helpful as we try to navigate the unknown. As I was reading, I started thinking about modesty here in the states. It made me think of how I dress differently than I use to and what actually is modest. What guidelines should I go by and what does the bible tell us.? I was excited to find a blog that has been doing some posts on being a modest women and is actually have a modest fashion show next week. (see side bar) I enjoy The Stay at Home Missionary and hope you will too.

First Aid

2009-03-07T08:35:00.000-08:00

A week ago my daughter and I took a first aid/CPR class. I didn't want to go by myself so I signed her up to go with me. We learned how to respond in an emergency, how to take care of wounds and how to administer CPR. My daughter especially liked practicing CPR on the dummies and can now be found bandaging up her dolls cuts and breaks. We learned that in any emergency situation we need to do the 3 C's which are check, call, and care. First we are to check the area, find out who is injured and assess what needs to be done. Next we are to call 911 for help if the situation calls for it. Lastly we are to administer care.

As a follower of Jesus, I am reminded of how I need to follow the 3 C's in applying spiritual first aid. For instance I need to check on how a friend is doing spiritually? Do I notice what is going on around me. Most importantly I need to call. I need to call on God. Prayer is the key in this process. Am I praying earnestly for my friends and their needs? Lastly I care for my friends by loving on them and being there for them. In my first aid class, someone asked how long do you do CPR on a person. The answer was until help arrived or you are no longer physically able to do so. In the same way, I am to pray and care as long as I am able, remembering that God will provide a way.

Dear God, You are the master physician. You provide healing for physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. May I never cease to care for those who are hurting and in need. May I never fail to call on you to help in all situations. Amen

Finding Hope-Ruth

2009-02-26T08:03:00.000-08:00

Ruth, even though just four chapters, gives hope in a world where life can seem hopeless. Set in the time of the Judges, we see that Israel is in a time of failure. It is not a hopeful time. The book of Ruth gives a glimpse of what God is doing in the darkest of times. In some ways, we may feel like we are living in the darkest of times. Families and marriages are struggling. Companies are laying off employees. Spiritually and financially our nation is in crisis. It seems like things are getting worse not better. Naomi lived in the time of a famine. She had lost her husband and two sons and is heading back to her home with her daughter in law Ruth. She can see no hope but somehow Ruth sees hope. Ruth decides to go with Naomi even though in doing so she would have to leave her family, possibly embrace a life of widowhood and childlessness (since Naomi had no more sons) and would be with an unknown people with a different language. Somehow Ruth is able to have a faith in Naomi's God that sees beyond their present setbacks.

Ruth's faith is seen again in her first conversation with Boaz. (Ruth 2:10-12) Boaz sees Ruth as a woman who seeks refuge under God's wings. According to John Piper, Ruth was blessed because she chose to find refuge in God which in turn glorifies God. Ruth wanted to stay under the wings of God so she stayed with Naomi. I really like this part. Ruth knew God was moving towards this destitute widow and she moved too. Lots of times I have visualized under the wings of God as being a set place. It could be a set place such as when we are called to wait. On the other hand, under His wings, God could position us and use us as we are safe in his refuge. I am reminded of the saying " the safest place to be is in the will of God." My family will be moving this summer overseas. As we seek refuge under God's wing, we are in the exact place we need to be even with all the unrest around us.

From here, the story picks up and the romance of Boaz and Ruth begins and then leads to the marriage of Ruth and Boaz and the birth of Obed. In the last chapter of Ruth, we find out that Obed would be the great grandfather to David. If we look even farther ahead we find that Obed whose mother is a Moabite is part of the lineage of Jesus. Even in the Old Testament God shows us his heart for all nations. It also shows God at work in the darkest of times working for the good of his people as He prepares the way for Jesus. Quoting John Piper once more, "the glory of Christ is that He comes from the nations as well as dying for the nations.

As Ruth as my example, I want to be a woman who knows God is good, bows down before Him and finds refuge under His wing. I desire for my prayer to be the same as RC Sproul who said, " May we see the invisible hand of God work in the darkest of times." May we see the Hope of glory, Jesus, in the darkest of times.

A Gift from God

2009-02-12T19:19:00.000-08:00

I often meet with a group of friends that began with us celebrating each of our birthdays. We have four in our group and it guaranteed in the midst of our busy schedules we would get together at least 4 times a year. A few years ago we decided that was not really enough and starting meeting for accountability at least once a month early on Saturday morning. Fast forward to Wed of this week. I had been having a rough week emotionally and was a little down and was excited to be meeting one of my dear friends for lunch. To my suprise, I ended up meeting two of my dear friends for lunch and they wanted to pray for me. Tears came to my eyes as I realized God had heard my prayers and sent angels here on earth to answer.

In Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, it says "Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. ....A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart." God has put us together in relationship to pray, lift up and enjoy life together. When one of us is struggling, others are there to pick her up and love on her. As sisters in Christ, we will be stronger as we stand together for the kingdom of God. So often in the past, I have listened to the lies of Satan that have kept me from experiencing life in fellowhip with others. I would think I can do this on my own or if I was a strong enough Christian I could handle this. Maybe I would think what would my friends think of me if they really knew what I think or felt. I have found these to be lies.

As our prayers go up together for the kingdom of heaven, we will live out Matthew 18:19,20. "if two of you agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by my Father who is in heaven. For where two or three have gathered in My name, there I am in their midst."

If you don't have a friends that you can share with and pray for, ask God to send some . He will provide. I would say it is a must have. Life is much better when it is lived in community.

Dear God, Thank you for your promises and gifts to us. Thank you for the friends you have given me who pray for me and I have the privilege of praying for them. May we seek your kingdom in all that we do. Amen

Whose name am I trying to make known?

2009-02-07T20:22:00.001-08:00

As I have been reading through the book of Genesis, I have been thinking about and contrasting two stories. One is found in Genesis 11 and the other in Genesis 12. In Genesis 11, the people decide to make a name for themselves by uniting and building this tower instead of following God's plan for their lives. They thought they could go about this making name for themselves thing on their own leaving God out of the picture. God foils the plan thus the tower of Babel story. Now Genesis 12 begins with God's call of Abram. God instructs Abram to leave his family and follow God to the land God has for him. God then promises that He will bless Abram and make Abram's name great. He also promises that all peoples of the earth will be blessed through Abram. What does Abram do? He obeys. He leaves his home and follows God's leading.

Why is Abram's name great? In Hebrews, it tells it was Abram's faith- his faith in leaving his home to follow, his faith that God would give him a son, and lastly his faith that God would keep his promises even if it didn't all happen in his lifetime. In Galatians, it tells us that Abram "believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness." But most of all God had a plan. He would bless Abram so Abram and his descendants could bless all peoples of the earth.

So often I am too much like the people of Babel. I am tooting my own horn and building my own towers. But I want so much to be like Abram. I want to have great faith. I want to believe God's promises. I want to be a blessing to all peoples of the world.

Dear God of Abram who is also my God, I thank you that your name is great and above all other names. Forgive me for the times I try to make my name great. Forgive me for doing things my way instead of your way. God may I have faith in your promises and believe that you will do what you say you are going to do. Thank you for blessing me in so many ways and even though I don't deserve it. May I be a blessing to those you send my way. In Jesus name, Amen

What my daughter says about our journey

2009-02-02T13:11:00.000-08:00

This was the poem that W put in our Christmas card this year.

With mountains of snow
We are on the go
To tell about Jesus
They really really need us.
I wear a cloth around my head
Because of culture Mom said.
We will do it
Because God said to do it.

Dear God, Guide our journey. As we continue to prepare, may we seek your guidance. Thank you for your provision and faithfulness. In Jesus name, Amen

My favorite quotes I have heard this month

2009-01-26T13:42:00.000-08:00

"Faithfulness is a long obedience in the same direction. " Eugene Peterson

"It is therefore necessary that we should be subject from the first to the last to the scourges of God so that we may from the heart call on Him. For our hearts are enfeebled by prosperity so that we can scarcely make the effort to pray." John Calvin

"It's better to do something than nothing because maybe in the journey we will figure it out." Buddy Hoffman, Grace Fellowship Church, GA