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."
The past week was a very emotional week for me. I loss my favorite "Tia". I wrote about her once before, in a blog titled: Prayer Impact.( http://mogravett.blogspot.com/2011/07/prayer-impact.html ) She was a beautiful, sweet, and faithful woman. She always prayed for me, and my siblings. Her prayers came to life in me as she prayed the armor of God over me so many times. I don't believe she had any idea what an impact those prayers were in my life. Now I suffer from a joyful heartache at the loss of my sweet Tia Angie.
As the week progressed, I feel as though God has laid on my heart that I need to extend more grace. I need to extend grace to family or friends that in one way or another have hurt my feelings or disappointed me. I need to learn to forgive and then give grace knowing that my forgiveness will not change anything for the people who will continue to live their lives never knowing of my silent disapproval. It is then that the John 10:10 came to mind.
You see, the thief comes to steal my freedom and joy. He comes to kill my relationships and the love in my heart. The thief comes to destroy all that is good in my life. The thief uses any means by which to accomplish the destruction of my hope, my joy, my love, and all things I hold dear. There is a real truth here, the truth is found in Jesus and His example. Jesus gives us grace, and so in turn we should also extend grace. I have just considered that while I am free from my sins, through Christ Jesus, I am still held captive by the sins I have not forgiven. I have decided that I no longer want to be controlled by the anger, disappointment, or hurt feelings that are associated with not forgiving. I want to experience freedom in grace that I give to others, the way Christ gave for me.
God always has a way of sealing my thoughts. He often validates my prayers and thoughts through others. Today as I sat in Sunday school, we talked about slavery. We were covering the verses from 1 Peter Chapter 2: 18-25. The verse that struck me most is 19: "A person might have to suffer even when it is unfair, but if he thinks of God and stands the pain, God is pleased." My take on this is that the only way to stand the pain of an unfair situation is to offer grace and forgiveness. We forgive not because of fairness or justice, but to free ourselves from the control of the oppressor. Today's Sunday school lesson, helped to solidify and confirm just what I was thinking and what I need to do. I need to live extending grace to others, with as much grace as I have been given.
I think I will start by praying and saying out loud that I want to forgive and that I want to extend grace to others. Then I will try something radical and give myself grace! I think I am often robbed of my freedom, by a thief named Miranda. There is no one harder on me than me. I can kick myself around over things that I should just let go. Grace means that a mistake can be forgiven, it is still a mistake, but there can be love and forgiveness anyway. I challenge each of you to try this with me. Let's make this week, a week of grace, a week of forgiveness for ourselves and for others. I think if we find ourselves wrapped in God's grace and extending grace to others, then in turn we will feel more free and more joy. The thief CANNOT steal, kill, and destroy while the Holy Spirit stands in me. I plan on living life in abundance with the Holy Spirit.
In honor of my Tia Angie:
Ephesians 6:10-13a
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against the flesh and blood but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world ad against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground."
Will you stand your ground this week? Will you keep the thief from stealing, killing and destroying your joy? Will you extend grace? I am certainly going to try! This is my mindset, now let me hear yours!
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Friday, September 7, 2012
FLAWED ENOUGH!
I have to tell this story. It is just too funny not to tell. My sweet husband and I were invited to dinner with some friends of ours. We had a lovely time. We were one of three couples, all of us had kids and the kids played while the adults visited. The next day, I ran into the friend who invited us over and she thanked me for coming and said the FUNNIEST thing to me. Her comment has made me laugh so much, but also has me thinking. She said, she loved having us over with the other couple, because the husband of the other couple is not saved. She wanted us to be there to show how normal Christians really are. ( Not verbatim)
Ok, so if you are me, this is what goes off in my head: You invited us over, because we are your most flawed friends! Begin enormous laugh here........still laughing..........oh my mercy..... still laughing! While I obviously find this incredibly funny, I also think I am flattered by the idea that we were selected. I can't help but ponder the ideas of those who are not Christian.
I think the stereotype that Christians are perfect has new humor to me. As a Christian, I know something that non-Christians don't know. That simply put is that I NEED A SAVIOR. I need someone to redeem me, because on my own, I am a huge mess.
For example, left to my own devices, I would be a wild cusser. That is right. I would talk what my mom would call, " a wild blue streak." I would be like a trucker. Just ask my hubby about the time he left me at the church on our wedding day, I know a few bad words. I would also probably dress like a fat woman at HEB in the summer. I would let it all hang out. I wouldn't care, because lets face it, it is HOT in Texas.
As it is, as a Christian, I taught my 5 year old to say crap. I have hurt peoples feelings. I have been dishonest. I have lied. I have saught revenge. I have torn the tag off the mattress of all sorts of things that God considers sin. I am no poster child for good. The only difference is that I can admit I am wrong, I can admit that I NEED a savior.
So I guess the real question is, are you flawed enough to be a Christian? Do you have the flaws that require needing to surrender your life over to God? I am happy to say that I AM FLAWED ENOUGH! I have everything it takes to deserve Jesus. What is that exactly? Nothing. I have absolutely nothing good to offer Jesus. I am broken, and hopelessly flawed. I admit it. I have a secret stash of chocolate in my underwear drawer! Those M&M's are a symbol of my secret indulgence in all things that are not good for me.
The amazing thing about God, is that as HE loves me regardless of me. He loves me despite my flaws. His word says that He sent his Son for those just like me, the lost. Before, I knew I needed a savior, I was lost. I had no idea the directions to heaven, to happiness, to peace, and most importantly to love. When I realized that I was FLAWED ENOUGH, He welcomed me in, and filled me with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, and self control. (The fruit of the spirit Galation 5:22-23) While they are not perfect in me, they are in HIM, and that is enough for me.
I hope that this little story encourages you to be flawed enough to step into the Christian family and find your place in HIS plan!
This is my mindset, now let me hear yours!
Ok, so if you are me, this is what goes off in my head: You invited us over, because we are your most flawed friends! Begin enormous laugh here........still laughing..........oh my mercy..... still laughing! While I obviously find this incredibly funny, I also think I am flattered by the idea that we were selected. I can't help but ponder the ideas of those who are not Christian.
I think the stereotype that Christians are perfect has new humor to me. As a Christian, I know something that non-Christians don't know. That simply put is that I NEED A SAVIOR. I need someone to redeem me, because on my own, I am a huge mess.
For example, left to my own devices, I would be a wild cusser. That is right. I would talk what my mom would call, " a wild blue streak." I would be like a trucker. Just ask my hubby about the time he left me at the church on our wedding day, I know a few bad words. I would also probably dress like a fat woman at HEB in the summer. I would let it all hang out. I wouldn't care, because lets face it, it is HOT in Texas.
As it is, as a Christian, I taught my 5 year old to say crap. I have hurt peoples feelings. I have been dishonest. I have lied. I have saught revenge. I have torn the tag off the mattress of all sorts of things that God considers sin. I am no poster child for good. The only difference is that I can admit I am wrong, I can admit that I NEED a savior.
So I guess the real question is, are you flawed enough to be a Christian? Do you have the flaws that require needing to surrender your life over to God? I am happy to say that I AM FLAWED ENOUGH! I have everything it takes to deserve Jesus. What is that exactly? Nothing. I have absolutely nothing good to offer Jesus. I am broken, and hopelessly flawed. I admit it. I have a secret stash of chocolate in my underwear drawer! Those M&M's are a symbol of my secret indulgence in all things that are not good for me.
The amazing thing about God, is that as HE loves me regardless of me. He loves me despite my flaws. His word says that He sent his Son for those just like me, the lost. Before, I knew I needed a savior, I was lost. I had no idea the directions to heaven, to happiness, to peace, and most importantly to love. When I realized that I was FLAWED ENOUGH, He welcomed me in, and filled me with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, and self control. (The fruit of the spirit Galation 5:22-23) While they are not perfect in me, they are in HIM, and that is enough for me.
I hope that this little story encourages you to be flawed enough to step into the Christian family and find your place in HIS plan!
This is my mindset, now let me hear yours!
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Finding Good
Well, I am 35 years old, and I believe I have just learned one of the most profound lessons of my life. I HAVE FOUND GOOD. I will let you in on a secret, finding good is directly related to obedience to God's will. God has poured out opportunities in my life and I have found two things that I am good at, and that bring me indescribable joy. ( That is aside from being a wife and mother.)
I have worked at jobs that I have been good at but were not my true passion. I have prayed for my life to matter. I have prayed that God would use me to glorify Him. I have prayed He would grow my faith. I have prayed He would give me a servants heart. I have asked God to show me where He wants me in his plan. However, in MY answer to these requests, I imagined, becoming a speaker for Women of Faith. I always seem to make myself bigger than Him in my imagined responses to my requests. Then I catch myself and pray, Lord, please help me not to seek fame or credit, but to make my life honor you.
I blogged once about feeling passionless, in No Pinterest. I have often felt passionless. I am not a crafter, I don't have a hobby if you will. It was like a crisis of identity if you asked me what I like to do. I find it easy to list the things that I don't like doing, but I could take three days to find the things that I love to do. My attitude about many things I do is lack luster, and I have a hard time claiming to be good at anything. I have come to realization that the reason, I feel I have no passion is because up until recently, I was not considering what God wants me to do. What are the gifts He has given me, and am I using them? Some where between what God puts on my heart and what I do there is a disconnect. It may be called fear, it may be called insecurity, but it has kept me from following through. Maybe I have heard God whisper to me before, but I have not actually been brave enough to stop and listen, and accept God's calling in my heart.
"Delight in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4
I have been delighting in the Lord. I have been seeking him. For a change I decided to listen and follow the tugging on my heart. I mentioned in my last blog that I am now working with Kindergarten kids part time. I have to say, I had my reservations. How was I going to wake up so early? Was I going to like being in a room full of kids. I've never done anything like this, will I even be good at it? However, I was certain that God was being clear on this matter, this is what He wanted for me. I have followed him faithfully, into the scary unknown. I have been tired, but I have also felt indescribable joy from being with these kids. I love listening to their silly stories. I love listening to their prayer requests, and hearing them pray. I even love the ones that test me! Kids are the best teachers in life. They love without bounds, they say what is on their minds, they ask for help when the need it. They are truly brilliant, created by God to show us adults what we have forgotten.
The Lord has also clearly put me in another situation, also mentioned in a previous blog. I have been attending the Beauty for Ashes bible study/support group. It is a ministry for abused women. I took the class with my mother-in-law to see if we would like to be co-teachers/leaders/facilitators. I was completely blessed by God during this class. I was blessed to meet some amazing women. I was blessed by the lessons, the truth of God's word, and how He views abuse. He desires total healing for all His precious and loved children. I have a new passion after seeing the freedom found through Jesus that the women experience as a result of speaking God's truth and removing the lies of the world. It is something that can not be described. When you see a woman, who has suffered her whole life, let go and accept that she is LOVED by the almighty, it is more than words can describe. It is not only the presence of Almighty God, it is the complete and total vision of the cross. After attending the Graduation class, I feel as though God may be calling me to continue in this ministry. I don't know when or where I will find the time, BUT if this is God's will, I intend to follow him in faithful obedience. Just read the passage of scripture the class is based on below:
Isaiah 61:3
to comfort all who mourn,3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes,the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
Who doesn't want to encourage and share the freedom found in hearing the truth about how God loves you and made you? Who doesn't want to trade in their ashes for beauty?
There it is, I have followed God and I have found joy. I have found good. It is one of the few times in my life when I have thrown caution to the wind. I have had no idea what I am doing! I have stepped out of all my familiar surroundings. I have left the comfort of "my box." I have taken a risk, and handed over the control to God. The craziest thing has happened, I have been equipped by God in ways I could never do myself. Therefore, being in His will is where I am made good at something! My conclusion, if you want to find out what you are good at, where your passion is, and what you have true joy in, find out what God is calling you to, and don't be afraid to step out and step in to HIS plan.
2Corinthians 3:5-6
I have worked at jobs that I have been good at but were not my true passion. I have prayed for my life to matter. I have prayed that God would use me to glorify Him. I have prayed He would grow my faith. I have prayed He would give me a servants heart. I have asked God to show me where He wants me in his plan. However, in MY answer to these requests, I imagined, becoming a speaker for Women of Faith. I always seem to make myself bigger than Him in my imagined responses to my requests. Then I catch myself and pray, Lord, please help me not to seek fame or credit, but to make my life honor you.
I blogged once about feeling passionless, in No Pinterest. I have often felt passionless. I am not a crafter, I don't have a hobby if you will. It was like a crisis of identity if you asked me what I like to do. I find it easy to list the things that I don't like doing, but I could take three days to find the things that I love to do. My attitude about many things I do is lack luster, and I have a hard time claiming to be good at anything. I have come to realization that the reason, I feel I have no passion is because up until recently, I was not considering what God wants me to do. What are the gifts He has given me, and am I using them? Some where between what God puts on my heart and what I do there is a disconnect. It may be called fear, it may be called insecurity, but it has kept me from following through. Maybe I have heard God whisper to me before, but I have not actually been brave enough to stop and listen, and accept God's calling in my heart.
"Delight in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4
I have been delighting in the Lord. I have been seeking him. For a change I decided to listen and follow the tugging on my heart. I mentioned in my last blog that I am now working with Kindergarten kids part time. I have to say, I had my reservations. How was I going to wake up so early? Was I going to like being in a room full of kids. I've never done anything like this, will I even be good at it? However, I was certain that God was being clear on this matter, this is what He wanted for me. I have followed him faithfully, into the scary unknown. I have been tired, but I have also felt indescribable joy from being with these kids. I love listening to their silly stories. I love listening to their prayer requests, and hearing them pray. I even love the ones that test me! Kids are the best teachers in life. They love without bounds, they say what is on their minds, they ask for help when the need it. They are truly brilliant, created by God to show us adults what we have forgotten.
The Lord has also clearly put me in another situation, also mentioned in a previous blog. I have been attending the Beauty for Ashes bible study/support group. It is a ministry for abused women. I took the class with my mother-in-law to see if we would like to be co-teachers/leaders/facilitators. I was completely blessed by God during this class. I was blessed to meet some amazing women. I was blessed by the lessons, the truth of God's word, and how He views abuse. He desires total healing for all His precious and loved children. I have a new passion after seeing the freedom found through Jesus that the women experience as a result of speaking God's truth and removing the lies of the world. It is something that can not be described. When you see a woman, who has suffered her whole life, let go and accept that she is LOVED by the almighty, it is more than words can describe. It is not only the presence of Almighty God, it is the complete and total vision of the cross. After attending the Graduation class, I feel as though God may be calling me to continue in this ministry. I don't know when or where I will find the time, BUT if this is God's will, I intend to follow him in faithful obedience. Just read the passage of scripture the class is based on below:
Isaiah 61:3
to comfort all who mourn,3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes,the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
Who doesn't want to encourage and share the freedom found in hearing the truth about how God loves you and made you? Who doesn't want to trade in their ashes for beauty?
There it is, I have followed God and I have found joy. I have found good. It is one of the few times in my life when I have thrown caution to the wind. I have had no idea what I am doing! I have stepped out of all my familiar surroundings. I have left the comfort of "my box." I have taken a risk, and handed over the control to God. The craziest thing has happened, I have been equipped by God in ways I could never do myself. Therefore, being in His will is where I am made good at something! My conclusion, if you want to find out what you are good at, where your passion is, and what you have true joy in, find out what God is calling you to, and don't be afraid to step out and step in to HIS plan.
2Corinthians 3:5-6
5 We don’t have the right to claim that we have done anything on our own. God gives us what it takes to do all that we do. 6 He
makes us worthy to be the servants of his new agreement that comes from
the Holy Spirit and not from a written Law. After all, the Law brings
death, but the Spirit brings life.
This week I suggest letting God give you what it takes to find GOOD. This is my mindset, now let me hear yours!
This week I suggest letting God give you what it takes to find GOOD. This is my mindset, now let me hear yours!
Sunday, August 19, 2012
a new adventure in LOVE
Well, it has been a while. I have been busy and the Lord has given me quite a whirlwind of busy weeks, and so many more to come. I have titled this blog a new adventure in love, because I am indeed in for a new adventure.
The story began in May. I was encouraged by my family to look for a part-time job at my daughters Christian school. I have a part-time job. So, I was slightly surprised when the conversations began. However, I prayed about it, and felt as if God was indeed encouraging me to step out of my comfort zone. I submitted my application and waited. After all, it was summer and I figured I would probably end up substituting and that is all I really had in mind. God had very different plans for me. It was about two weeks ago, that I was called and asked to come in and interview. The before and after school program, had a couple of openings. There was both a full time and part time position, one with 4 year olds and one in First/Second grade. In my mind this was all happening so fast....EEEKKK CHANGE! I told the director that I would pray about the job opportunity. She was going on vacation, and I had a week, to pray and settle my heart for what job I would take if I took one.
It is really funny how God speaks. I agree with one of my favorite Christian musicians, Mandisa, I think God sounds like James Earl Jones! As I prayed that week, I heard so many things, that I am sure were God. However, most them didn't actually sound like James Earl Jones. The strange thing was that I was at peace. I kept feeling my heart saying, don't worry, I will provide all your needs. This has never happened to me before; I HAVE NEVER HAD PEACE LIKE THIS DURING CHANGE. (Philippians 4:7 kind of peace.) The idea of my needs being met reached a new challenge to me, because the job requires early mornings. I AM NO MORNING PERSON. This may in fact be an understatement. This is a huge step in faith, because I am believing that God is going to take this 35 year old, and miraculously turn me into a happy morning person! I have no choice but to believe it, because well, I heard him say he was going to meet my needs.
I also randomly talked to people during that week, that encouraged me having no idea that they were doing so. It is really strange the way God moves. I have been feeling him move and feeling like he was preparing me for something, I just never imagined it would be this. When I went in for the interview, God gave me one more thing to make me feel sure. There was a new part time position available, and it was in Kindergarten! My daughter is going to start kinder, and I can not think of a better place to be. Needless to say, I am the new Kinder extended learning session (ELS) teacher!
I am very passionate about my daughter and how I want to raise her. I never want my daughter to feel lonely, because I am too busy for her. I want her to have a mom to come home to. I want her to know that I am not only here, but that I am really listening to her. I want her to know that I am involved and engaged with every part of her life, and that she is important. I want her to know God loves her, and so do mom and dad. I have to have a job, but this is like the best of both worlds. I can be with her after school. I also have the opportunity to share and give love to 13 other kids on my roster!
During the week, that I spent praying about taking the job, a theme of love emerged. I was told, that all I had to do was love these kids. I was told that I was a loving person by people who I least expected to hear it from. Then even more encouraging, during my week of inservice and orientation, the discussion was often about love. I have never seen so many people, passionate about Christ, full of love, and genuinely care for one another. By Wednesday, I came home and cried. I am not a crier, but I was so moved by the people, by the scriptures, and the presence of God. The theme for our school year is as follows: Equipped and Empowered to GO! (Backstory: The verses supporting this are Ephesians 6:10-20, the Armor of God, and if you read my blog, you know I LOVE these verses!)
I have always heard the saying: God does not call the equipped, but he equips the called. I find myself in that situation. I have no classroom experience, save a couple of vacation Bible schools, and a few Sunday school classes. However, I choose to view that as a good thing. I have no bad habits, I only have new habits to make. I am in a unique position, I must surrender to God. The minute I think I know what I am doing, I am going to be in real trouble! God has opened this door, and sent out the call. This is so far outside of my box, I have to set my eyes on him and walk in faith. Funny, during inservice, one of the pastors that spoke, asked this question: When is the last time you asked God to grow your faith? It occurs to me that I prayed that very prayer this summer. Now I am here with no choice but to go where I asked. I have to grow deeper and rely on my faith.
My plan for this adventure: LOVE BIG, PRAY HARD, and live in the REST OF FAITH.
Oh and play this every morning:
Normally, I would say this is my mindset, now let me hear yours... this time I will say it this way:
This is where God is taking me, and I hope you will pray with me that God's will be done, and that my words and actions honor Him, as I go through this new adventure in love!
The story began in May. I was encouraged by my family to look for a part-time job at my daughters Christian school. I have a part-time job. So, I was slightly surprised when the conversations began. However, I prayed about it, and felt as if God was indeed encouraging me to step out of my comfort zone. I submitted my application and waited. After all, it was summer and I figured I would probably end up substituting and that is all I really had in mind. God had very different plans for me. It was about two weeks ago, that I was called and asked to come in and interview. The before and after school program, had a couple of openings. There was both a full time and part time position, one with 4 year olds and one in First/Second grade. In my mind this was all happening so fast....EEEKKK CHANGE! I told the director that I would pray about the job opportunity. She was going on vacation, and I had a week, to pray and settle my heart for what job I would take if I took one.
It is really funny how God speaks. I agree with one of my favorite Christian musicians, Mandisa, I think God sounds like James Earl Jones! As I prayed that week, I heard so many things, that I am sure were God. However, most them didn't actually sound like James Earl Jones. The strange thing was that I was at peace. I kept feeling my heart saying, don't worry, I will provide all your needs. This has never happened to me before; I HAVE NEVER HAD PEACE LIKE THIS DURING CHANGE. (Philippians 4:7 kind of peace.) The idea of my needs being met reached a new challenge to me, because the job requires early mornings. I AM NO MORNING PERSON. This may in fact be an understatement. This is a huge step in faith, because I am believing that God is going to take this 35 year old, and miraculously turn me into a happy morning person! I have no choice but to believe it, because well, I heard him say he was going to meet my needs.
I also randomly talked to people during that week, that encouraged me having no idea that they were doing so. It is really strange the way God moves. I have been feeling him move and feeling like he was preparing me for something, I just never imagined it would be this. When I went in for the interview, God gave me one more thing to make me feel sure. There was a new part time position available, and it was in Kindergarten! My daughter is going to start kinder, and I can not think of a better place to be. Needless to say, I am the new Kinder extended learning session (ELS) teacher!
I am very passionate about my daughter and how I want to raise her. I never want my daughter to feel lonely, because I am too busy for her. I want her to have a mom to come home to. I want her to know that I am not only here, but that I am really listening to her. I want her to know that I am involved and engaged with every part of her life, and that she is important. I want her to know God loves her, and so do mom and dad. I have to have a job, but this is like the best of both worlds. I can be with her after school. I also have the opportunity to share and give love to 13 other kids on my roster!
During the week, that I spent praying about taking the job, a theme of love emerged. I was told, that all I had to do was love these kids. I was told that I was a loving person by people who I least expected to hear it from. Then even more encouraging, during my week of inservice and orientation, the discussion was often about love. I have never seen so many people, passionate about Christ, full of love, and genuinely care for one another. By Wednesday, I came home and cried. I am not a crier, but I was so moved by the people, by the scriptures, and the presence of God. The theme for our school year is as follows: Equipped and Empowered to GO! (Backstory: The verses supporting this are Ephesians 6:10-20, the Armor of God, and if you read my blog, you know I LOVE these verses!)
I have always heard the saying: God does not call the equipped, but he equips the called. I find myself in that situation. I have no classroom experience, save a couple of vacation Bible schools, and a few Sunday school classes. However, I choose to view that as a good thing. I have no bad habits, I only have new habits to make. I am in a unique position, I must surrender to God. The minute I think I know what I am doing, I am going to be in real trouble! God has opened this door, and sent out the call. This is so far outside of my box, I have to set my eyes on him and walk in faith. Funny, during inservice, one of the pastors that spoke, asked this question: When is the last time you asked God to grow your faith? It occurs to me that I prayed that very prayer this summer. Now I am here with no choice but to go where I asked. I have to grow deeper and rely on my faith.
My plan for this adventure: LOVE BIG, PRAY HARD, and live in the REST OF FAITH.
Oh and play this every morning:
Normally, I would say this is my mindset, now let me hear yours... this time I will say it this way:
This is where God is taking me, and I hope you will pray with me that God's will be done, and that my words and actions honor Him, as I go through this new adventure in love!
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Outside of the Box
There is something about change that can make you feel a little insecure. Well, it can down right make you feel like the dumbest girl in the room. (A quick plug her for one of my favorite blogs to read: Chance Scoggins: Dumbest Guy in the Room. http://www.chancescoggins.com/the-dumbest-guy-in-the-room ) I have said before that I am usually pretty comfortable in my skin. I know more or less what I am willing to do or not do, and I certainly know what I believe in. However, change makes me uneasy, and worse it makes me question. Change is something that makes me feel afraid, and well, just plain old out of sorts.
Change means making decisions and making choices. It has never been more apparent to me than how important choices are since having my daughter. My choices are so much more serious now that I have a child. It use to be easy to decide things, but now I find myself contemplating things like, is my daughter going to need therapy because I have accidentally made her into a germ a-phobe? There is nothing like living with a literal child, to make you think before every decision. It is the flippant decisions and choices I make that get me in trouble. It was just last night that I was metaphorically slapped in the face when, my 5 year old said, "Oh crap!" Yep, my choice for a "better" word is still not a better word for a 5 year old.
My life seems to be in the midst of changes. I am changing as a Christian. I am changing as a mother. I am changing my priorities, and considering things that did not use to matter, actually do matter. Of course, the Lord is sovereign in the examples He gives through His word. I think it is no coincidence that we are studying Gideon in Sunday school. I love the story of Gideon, and find him extremely relate-able. ( Is that even a word? Guess not, but I am using it anyway!) Gideon is the perfect example of how I react when it is time for me to step out of my box. As the story goes Gideon was basically found hiding in a corner. He was minding his own business, when an Angel of the Lord came and said, "The Lord is with you, mighty warrior." I love that Gideon's reaction was skeptical and he basically said,"oh yeah, can you prove it?"
Isn't that how so many of us are when we are confronted with change? The first reaction: I can't do that; that is way to far out of MY comfy box. If this is what I am suppose to do then, I need a sign. I just need to be sure. The questions come and go and the internal decisions begin to form. As I think about the decisions that need to be made, I want my choices to be specific. As I said, it is the flippant decisions that often come back to bite me in the metaphorical butt.
Here are a few things that I want to actively choose:
I choose LOVE.
I choose JOY.
I choose HOPE.
I choose FAITH.
I choose OBEDIENCE.
I choose KINDNESS.
The Bible is riddled with examples of God taking the least likely person, and making them great! First, Abraham and Sarah, promised children, that they were too old to have. However, God didn't think they were too old, he thought they were perfect for His plans. Then there was Moses, called to set His people free, the very one who was once the son and brother of the oppressors. Who can forget David? The small child who killed the giant Goliath and gave the Israelites victory over the Philistines. Then there was Mary, the quiet but obedient virgin mother of Jesus. I can't leave out Saul who persecuted Christians, but then became Paul, one of the authors of several new Testament books, and a great preacher of the gospel. These are just a few examples, there are many, many more. A theme through out the Bible, God likes to take people out of their boxes. He likes to show that His imagination is beyond our beyond. The common theme in each example is that each CHOSE Jesus, and they chose to step out of their comfort zone. It wasn't easy for any of them but God was Faithful.
It is only with Jesus and the gift of the Holy spirit, that I believe it is possible to confidently step outside of the box. The author of HOPE, wants us to use our FAITH, to OBEDIENTLY follow his calling. Change is scary, but maybe by making the right choices change can be the more rewarding, more fulfilling, and more meaningful than staying in the same comfy box.
This is my mindset, now let me hear yours!
Change means making decisions and making choices. It has never been more apparent to me than how important choices are since having my daughter. My choices are so much more serious now that I have a child. It use to be easy to decide things, but now I find myself contemplating things like, is my daughter going to need therapy because I have accidentally made her into a germ a-phobe? There is nothing like living with a literal child, to make you think before every decision. It is the flippant decisions and choices I make that get me in trouble. It was just last night that I was metaphorically slapped in the face when, my 5 year old said, "Oh crap!" Yep, my choice for a "better" word is still not a better word for a 5 year old.
My life seems to be in the midst of changes. I am changing as a Christian. I am changing as a mother. I am changing my priorities, and considering things that did not use to matter, actually do matter. Of course, the Lord is sovereign in the examples He gives through His word. I think it is no coincidence that we are studying Gideon in Sunday school. I love the story of Gideon, and find him extremely relate-able. ( Is that even a word? Guess not, but I am using it anyway!) Gideon is the perfect example of how I react when it is time for me to step out of my box. As the story goes Gideon was basically found hiding in a corner. He was minding his own business, when an Angel of the Lord came and said, "The Lord is with you, mighty warrior." I love that Gideon's reaction was skeptical and he basically said,"oh yeah, can you prove it?"
Isn't that how so many of us are when we are confronted with change? The first reaction: I can't do that; that is way to far out of MY comfy box. If this is what I am suppose to do then, I need a sign. I just need to be sure. The questions come and go and the internal decisions begin to form. As I think about the decisions that need to be made, I want my choices to be specific. As I said, it is the flippant decisions that often come back to bite me in the metaphorical butt.
Here are a few things that I want to actively choose:
I choose LOVE.
I choose JOY.
I choose HOPE.
I choose FAITH.
I choose OBEDIENCE.
I choose KINDNESS.
The Bible is riddled with examples of God taking the least likely person, and making them great! First, Abraham and Sarah, promised children, that they were too old to have. However, God didn't think they were too old, he thought they were perfect for His plans. Then there was Moses, called to set His people free, the very one who was once the son and brother of the oppressors. Who can forget David? The small child who killed the giant Goliath and gave the Israelites victory over the Philistines. Then there was Mary, the quiet but obedient virgin mother of Jesus. I can't leave out Saul who persecuted Christians, but then became Paul, one of the authors of several new Testament books, and a great preacher of the gospel. These are just a few examples, there are many, many more. A theme through out the Bible, God likes to take people out of their boxes. He likes to show that His imagination is beyond our beyond. The common theme in each example is that each CHOSE Jesus, and they chose to step out of their comfort zone. It wasn't easy for any of them but God was Faithful.
It is only with Jesus and the gift of the Holy spirit, that I believe it is possible to confidently step outside of the box. The author of HOPE, wants us to use our FAITH, to OBEDIENTLY follow his calling. Change is scary, but maybe by making the right choices change can be the more rewarding, more fulfilling, and more meaningful than staying in the same comfy box.
This is my mindset, now let me hear yours!
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Becoming Miranda
Tonight I cleaned my kitchen in my underwear. Yep, you read that right! It was strangely empowering! I scrubbed the sink, and began to wonder how it had come to this? I normally clean fully dressed but, I had given my daughter a bath, and she managed to get one of my legs completely wet. As I passed the sink with the dinner dishes stacked in it, it only made sense to clean up. There I stood in the kitchen cleaning in my undies asking myself, how did I become THIS MIRANDA? What am I becoming?
This is what I think I am becoming:
A mother. The supreme master of the word NO. The teacher of good decisions. The encourager and cheer leader to all accomplishments. The dictator of the house mood. The chef to healthy and not so healthy meals. I am the heart of the household. The funny thing about mommying is that it changes everyday. Your child may go to sleep as a precious angel, but wake up with the sarcastic and sly humor of her father. Or all of the sudden she may be exhibiting my very bossy and loud mouth. While I like myself, I am not sure I like myself as a 5 year old. Each day poses a new adventure, that sometimes I am prepared for, and other times I am left to "punt." Some days all that is left is a half dressed mom, cleaning a sink full of dirty dishes!
A finisher. I have to confess, I like to procrastinate. I do my laundry and fill the basket until it over flows before I will fold. Then I spend way to much time folding that I don't have enough time to vacuum. I don't iron anything until I absolutely must. I even procrastinate the start of my day. I snooze at least twice. Then I check my email and blood sugar, watch a little news then get up. While I finish things, I admit particularly when it comes to house chores, it is always last minute. The thing about finishing is it is something incredibly important to teach your kid. I don't want to look down the road and ask myself why I didn't make it important to teach my daughter to finish. I guess sometimes finishing means washing the dishes half dressed.
A Christian. I am becoming a Christian. It is more than just saying I believe in Jesus. It is changing my life, from the inside out. It is as scripture says, " taking off the old, and putting on the new." There are days, that I don't want to love others. Other people sometimes down right hack me off. There are days I don't want to forgive, and days when I want life to be only about me. However, as I progress in my walk as a Christian, I find it easier. There is no greater freedom than that found in forgiveness. To be forgiven and to give forgiveness may be the only way to find real joy. I found the Lord whispering in my ear the other day, that life is not about the people who don't love you, but it is about how much I (God) love you. It was a profound moment. The days can sometimes be filled with haters, echos of all the things wrong with the world, and reasons why success is impossible. As a Christian, the real truth is how much God loves us. It is proven each day by the many miracles that are taken for granted and over looked. God loves all the time, even the sin marred and broken. I love that I am becoming closer, more faithful, and more complete in the hands of God.
My life is becoming........it is not perfect, it is not finished, it is an everyday adventure. I feel as though I am embarking on changes now. What is the change? Well, I don't know. I just feel as though God is working on me, and His will be done. I hope I am up for the challenge of becoming Miranda, God style!
This is my mindset, now let me hear yours!
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Freedom in TRUTH
I love this country. I love our soldiers. I think the United States is the best country in the whole world. There is no other place where you can have life, like that in the United States. There is no other country in the world that loves life, and freedom as much as we do. However, we are in strange times. We are at a place where all of the sudden our freedoms are being taken from us, and the love of life is slowly slipping away. I believe we need truth, and in truth we can find freedom, that will in turn set our country back on track.
What is this truth I speak of? It is God's word. After all, God is the maker of real freedom. He is the creator and sustainer of all things good and righteous. If we embrace God's truth, I think we will better understand freedom and how we should embrace it as a country.
Recently, I have been participating in a Bible Study of sorts. It is a group designated to help women who have been abused. Along with my mother-in-law we have been attending the class to determine if this is something that we want to lead in the future. The class focuses on sharing God's TRUTH, not the lies we tell ourselves, and definitely not the lies that others/the world tell us. I am learning so much about people and truth. Our world is full of people who are hurting. We are a country of lost people. Many of my blogs have been about love, and how God commands us to love one another. After being in this class it occurs to me that I don't think I have given enough thought to the role of TRUTH in our lives and in our freedom.
The class is called Beauty For Ashes. It is based on the scripture Isaiah 61:3, but I am including verses 1&2 because I think it speaks great truth for our hurting world.
Isaiah 61: 1-3
The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me,
because the Lord has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,[a]
2 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of joy
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
What is this truth I speak of? It is God's word. After all, God is the maker of real freedom. He is the creator and sustainer of all things good and righteous. If we embrace God's truth, I think we will better understand freedom and how we should embrace it as a country.
Recently, I have been participating in a Bible Study of sorts. It is a group designated to help women who have been abused. Along with my mother-in-law we have been attending the class to determine if this is something that we want to lead in the future. The class focuses on sharing God's TRUTH, not the lies we tell ourselves, and definitely not the lies that others/the world tell us. I am learning so much about people and truth. Our world is full of people who are hurting. We are a country of lost people. Many of my blogs have been about love, and how God commands us to love one another. After being in this class it occurs to me that I don't think I have given enough thought to the role of TRUTH in our lives and in our freedom.
The class is called Beauty For Ashes. It is based on the scripture Isaiah 61:3, but I am including verses 1&2 because I think it speaks great truth for our hurting world.
Isaiah 61: 1-3
The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me,
because the Lord has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,[a]
2 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of joy
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
This is truth. I love what it says in these verses, by proclaiming the good news, otherwise known as TRUTH, hearts can be healed, FREEDOM can be found and comfort will be given. It says a crown of beauty instead of ashes, joy instead of mourning, praise instead of despair. What this means is that people need to know about the TRUTH found in Jesus Christ. If they know and believe, they can walk FREE of guilt and shame with healed hearts, comforted from their sorrows. Don't you think our country and our world could use more of this FREEDOM in TRUTH?
I love the imagery of FREEDOM that is given here. I love the description of a crown of beauty. When we walk in truth, and share it with others real freedom exists. You too can be free, just exchange your ashes for beauty. All you have to do is accept Jesus as your savior and ask for forgiveness. You are so dearly loved by God the Father. You no longer have to wear those ashes of worry, guilt, or shame. You are freed by the truth found only in Jesus.
As a country we seem to be in a grey area when it comes to truth. We walk covered in ashes, living in despair, brokenhearted, and a prisoner to our debtors. So many of us claim to be Christian but don't know the first thing about God's character or word. If we root ourselves in truth, then the many grey areas would not be holding us hostage. Abortion/murder, homosexuality, lying, cheating, and stealing are just a few areas that we kid ourselves into thinking things like, "Well, maybe it is ok in this case." Or, we convince ourselves we just need to be more loving. The reality is we need to take a step back and look at what God has to say about these things.
As we celebrate the 4th of July, I hope that we can celebrate with TRUTH. The truth is, our constitution was founded by people who were seeking God, and today followed by people who barely know Him. I hope that each of us will take time to look at God's truth and the beauty that comes from ashes, when we choose to follow him. I pray this 4th of July you will consider what God's truth is in your life. I pray you will consider that the Constitution was framed by Christian men seeking God's truth. Then ask yourself if the men and women who uphold it today are seeking God's truth. Then I encourage you to pray for our country like never before, and make your voice heard on election day!
This is my mindset, now let me hear yours!
I love the imagery of FREEDOM that is given here. I love the description of a crown of beauty. When we walk in truth, and share it with others real freedom exists. You too can be free, just exchange your ashes for beauty. All you have to do is accept Jesus as your savior and ask for forgiveness. You are so dearly loved by God the Father. You no longer have to wear those ashes of worry, guilt, or shame. You are freed by the truth found only in Jesus.
As a country we seem to be in a grey area when it comes to truth. We walk covered in ashes, living in despair, brokenhearted, and a prisoner to our debtors. So many of us claim to be Christian but don't know the first thing about God's character or word. If we root ourselves in truth, then the many grey areas would not be holding us hostage. Abortion/murder, homosexuality, lying, cheating, and stealing are just a few areas that we kid ourselves into thinking things like, "Well, maybe it is ok in this case." Or, we convince ourselves we just need to be more loving. The reality is we need to take a step back and look at what God has to say about these things.
As we celebrate the 4th of July, I hope that we can celebrate with TRUTH. The truth is, our constitution was founded by people who were seeking God, and today followed by people who barely know Him. I hope that each of us will take time to look at God's truth and the beauty that comes from ashes, when we choose to follow him. I pray this 4th of July you will consider what God's truth is in your life. I pray you will consider that the Constitution was framed by Christian men seeking God's truth. Then ask yourself if the men and women who uphold it today are seeking God's truth. Then I encourage you to pray for our country like never before, and make your voice heard on election day!
This is my mindset, now let me hear yours!
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