Jesus? In me?

"Look at that guy trying to lift those weights..."
"She is so skinny I think she's gonna blow away..."
"Oh my goodness, that girl has a tattoo!"
"Now you better stay away from her.  She has a reputation."
"Her hair is a mess!  I'd love to take her to my stylist... Bless her heart."
"I don't mean to be ugly, but..."

Now wait a minute.  By prefacing your statement with "I don't mean to be ugly..." I would dare say that you do mean it.  Otherwise, your comments would have been better kept silent.  

Are you guilty of such condemning statements?  If you're honest, you will have to say yes.  I believe at some point in time we all are or have been!  We critique and criticize others all in the name of Christianity.  We just want them to "be better people".  We think by tagging "bless their heart" at the end of our sentences that it makes everything okay.  What we have said is true, right?  At least we say what we think!

Christians can be the most hateful, critical people.  Bitterness takes root and starts to spread like ivy.  What causes this bitterness, which leads to hatred?    I cannot judge your heart, but I do believe that a lot of times it comes from some super spiritual stipulations we place on ourselves that we cannot meet.  We have made up a list of rules of dos and don'ts that we ourselves cannot keep and it frustrates us.  Not a tangible list, but an "understood" list.  We've heard one teacher give us a list of what we're supposed to look like when we leave the house, and a preacher explain to us exactly what music, movies, and TV shows are taboo, and the newest book has given us a 10 step process of  "How to Live ______" (you fill in the blank).  We cannot reach these goals or legalistic rules and sometimes view ourselves as a failure.

Then there's the problem of comparing ourselves to others.  And measuring ourselves up to "some people", we look really good!  We begin to play the comparison game and begin to take on a "holier than thou" attitude that may begin in our mind but ultimately makes its way to our lips.  A dear friend once gave me an example when we were discussing parenting and I have often used it with my children.  A display of physical aggression did not "just happen".  It begins in your mind, then is spoken through your lips, and ultimately is acted out through your hands.  When we begin to believe we are better than another we will speak as though we are.  (Like in the above statements.)  Once spoken, we will then act on them.  How do you treat others you run into at work, school, sporting events, and even your local mall?  With disgust?  With hatred?  With aggression?  Or with love?

Our real problem is ourselves!  We think that we have to change.  We believe we have to do something to make us stop doing the bad and help us do the right.  But the real issue is that all along our focus has on US and not on HIM.  We can't change! There is nothing good in us!  It's like having a glass 3/4 of the way full of water and trying to squeeze milk in with it.  When you begin to pour in the milk, something is going to come out!  If we desire milk, the water must first be emptied so the glass can hold the milk.  Our dependence must be on Jesus Christ and Him alone.

When we see God for who He is, and ourselves for who we are, we will then have a heart that desires to love others and see them come to Him.  Where were you before The Lord revealed your sinfulness to you?  Can you remember?  Where would you be today without His grace and mercy?  God's Word says that a Christian will be know by the love they show to others.  Stop.  Take a few minutes to read John 13.    Do you show love?  Is there really a desire to see others come to Jesus, or only those who look like you, dress like you, and act like you?  It is a sad day when those who need love shown to them the most are shunned because they don't fit our mold.  We want them to pay for their actions!  "Yeah!  They're getting what they deserve!"  Really?  Really?  How hypocritical!  The next time you (I) sit at your (my) vanity, look into the mirror and see if others can see Jesus through your words and actions.

^{John 13:35}  By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.


James 1:14-15  But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.  Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

James 1:21-26

²¹Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. 

 ²²But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

 ²³For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:

 ²⁴For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.

 ²⁵But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

 ²⁶If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.




A song to ponder:

Do They See Jesus In Me? by Joy Williams

Sloth

One animal no one should desire to be called is a "sloth".  While strolling through the zoo yesterday, I pointed out the sloth to my daughter and reminded her of why she should never desire the title of "sloth" or wish that title upon anyone else.  Sloths are slow moving mammals that hang upside down on their hooklike claws and feed on leaves, plants, and fruits.  A sloth has long, shaggy fur that harbors its very own ecosystem.  According to mongabay.com, one study found more than 950 beetles on a single sloth, living off the algae growing in its fur.  Are you disgusted yet?  
As vile we as humans may believe this animal to be, our God has been merciful to the sloth by giving him this fur.  The fur on a sloth grows away from his extremities to provide protection from the natural elements he is exposed to.  This fur also houses alge which acts as a camoflauge to protect him from predators.  Doesn't that thrill your soul?
Our Lord is so gracious to provide for each of His creatures on an individual level.  Though this sloth is lazy, eats things that are tough on his digestive system, and does things a bit backwards (hanging upside down), God still takes care of him.  He still provides for his every need.  And if our Lord will look after the sloth, how much more will he provide for you and I? 
In no way am I endorsing sloth like behavior.  Nor am I encouraging you to be lazy and just expect God to lay everything out for you.  But what I want you to see is what He showed me yesterday; that He loves the sloth, He loves you, and He loves me on an individual level.  He will provide His grace to meet us where we are.  Yes, he did provide the sloth protection from the elements.  But it did not come without a price!  Think of the heavy load this animal must carry around in his fur.  God's grace is sufficient, and He may very well shelter you from harsh elements.  But that grace was not free!  God had to sacrifice His only Son to give us the freedom we can have through Him. 
The Bible does have some examples to remind us about not having sloth like behavior.  We should take these verses and heed their warning.  However, next time you have the chance to see a sloth up close, remember where you were before grace was showered upon you and be mindful of how you must show that same grace to others.

The lazy man does not roast his game, but the diligent man prizes his possessions.  Proverbs 12:27 NIV  

The slothful hideth his hand in [his] bosom; it grieveth him to bring it again to his mouth.  Proverbs 26:15 KJV

Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.  Romans 12: 10-13 KJV

A Lesson to Live By 1 Kings 3:3-14

<sup>1 Kings 3:3-14

3</sup> And Solomon loved the LORD, walking in the statutes of his father David, except that he sacrificed and burned incense at the high places.
⁴ Now the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there, for that was the great high place: Solomon offered a thousand burnt offerings on that altar. ⁵ At Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night; and God said, “Ask! What shall I give you?”
⁶ And Solomon said: “You have shown great mercy to Your servant David my father, because he walked before You in truth, in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with You; You have continued this great kindness for him, and You have given him a son to sit on his throne, as it is this day. ⁷ Now, O LORD my God, You have made Your servant king instead of my father David, but I am a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in. ⁸ And Your servant is in the midst of Your people whom You have chosen, a great people, too numerous to be numbered or counted. ⁹ Therefore give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?”
¹⁰ The speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. ¹¹ Then God said to him: “Because you have asked this thing, and have not asked long life for yourself, nor have asked riches for yourself, nor have asked the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern justice, ¹² behold, I have done according to your words; see, I have given you a wise and understanding heart, so that there has not been anyone like you before you, nor shall any like you arise after you. ¹³ And I have also given you what you have not asked: both riches and honor, so that there shall not be anyone like you among the kings all your days. ¹⁴ So if you walk in My ways, to keep My statutes and My commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen your days.”

As we read this passage this morning, it was so refreshing and encouraging!  Solomon was given an opportunity to have anything he so desired and he asked for wisdom.  Understanding to discern justice.  Wow!  What a man of character!  Of course, Solomon had a man of character who set an example before him... his father, David.  Though David had his own faults, he truly was a man who loved and desired to serve The Lord.  His example had made an impact on his son, Solomon.  There were several points presented through this passage that I was challenged with personally, and it went hand in hand with the pieces of the sermon I heard this morning.  (My 11 month old was being a bit of a handful.) 

In verses 3-5, I was challenged in the example David had set before Solomon.  How do I encourage my kids to love and serve The Lord?  My attitude often does not reflect the desire of my heart.  Far too often, I get caught up in the temporal and neglect to point them to the eternal.  Yes, I take them to church.  We're there every time the doors are open!  They have been instructed, though not always obedient, how to sit quietly through a service, stand and sing, and be respectful of others.  But why?  Is it all for my own personal sake?  To make me look good?  Or is it truly my desire to see them honor and serve The Lord so that they will continue all the days of their life?  I do believe in public worship.  I believe it is an outward demonstration of our love for Jesus and His people.  It is also beneficial for us to surround ourselves with godly influence to encourage us and help steer us in the ways of truth.  However, we cannot depend on the church to teach our children about Jesus and all He has done for us.  That is our job as parents.  We are to train them at home, as well as in public worship.  For as you see in verse 5, it was while Solomon was worshipping that he had his dream and the ultimate question asked of him.  God honors and uses public worship to draw men and women to service for him.  It's through those services He calls some to be missionaries, evangelists, preachers, and teachers.

In verses 6-9, Solomon shows what a man of character he truly is by the way he answers.  One thing I noticed is that he does not answer right away!  Instead he reminds The Lord of his own unworthiness to be considered a king.  He recognizes his own inability and his dependence upon God.  How often do I depend on my own ability to control certain situations.  I think I have the answers and wish to impart my own opinion and beliefs upon others.  Solomon was quick to turn the attention back to the one he was dependent upon.  Today, our society is very me driven.  "I need some me time.  It's all about me."  If we are not in the spotlight, then we just won't participate.  We tend to have an "I'll show you" attitude.  Instead of holding the spotlight for others, we demand it to be held for us.  How appalling!  Is this the attitude God is pleased with?  Instead of desiring to be the sun, we need to be more like the moon and reflect the "Son".  Solomon, as a king, was a dictator.  He could have chosen to demand the attention of those under his authority.  Instead, he submitted to God by asking Him for the one thing he needed most... wisdom.  Just this morning, as Sunday mornings are sometimes difficult, things were not going as they should.  And instead of asking for God's help, I tried to get things done in my own power.  (And you moms know exactly what I mean!  We sometimes allow Sunday mornings to be the roughest.)  We need to be more like Solomon in seeking God's help over every situation and allowing Him to work in us and through us for His will to be accomplished.  This is done first by recognizing our dependence upon Him and then asking for His continual guidance. 

Then in verses 10-14, I was reminded of how God sees our heart.  He was pleased with Solomon's request and honored it.  Though it would be nice at times, God is not interested in our lip service.  We can sing praises like we have it all together, but if our hearts are not right, all we do is in vain.  Ouch!  There have been times I have went to church and taught Sunday School, sang in the choir, and even kept nursery when my heart was far from right.  All of those moments were pure vanity.  How often does The Lord look at your heart and reject the "praise" you offer?  Solomon was humble and God not only granted him what he asked for, but much more!

What about you?  What kind of example are you setting for future generations?  Is life all about Y-O-U?  Or are you pointing others to Jesus by having a servant's heart?  And what about your heart?  No one can see it but The Lord.  Is it pure?  Are your motifs righteous or selfish?  I'll close with a quote from an old hymn that challenges me every time I hear it.  Oh to only be able to not only sing it, but claim it word for word... "All the vain things that charm me most, I sacrifice them to HIS blood". 


On a side note, our teacher asked a question this morning that I thought I had an answer for.  However, he made a very thought provoking point I'd like to include.  The question was, how are blessings and obedience related?  My thought was that they go hand in hand.  If you're obedient, you'll receive blessings.  His statement was that we are all blessed, but when we are obedient, we can see those blessings more clearly.  Wow!  I have certainly been blessed.  I just forget how much when I am consumed with my selfishness.

Thoughts on Friendship

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
1To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
2A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
3A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
4A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
5A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
6A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
7A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
8A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.

These verses have been in the forefront of my mind as I am facing many emotions in regards to friendship.  What is a friend?  I believe it is one who shares in each of these "times" with another.  Truly loving them in times of joy and sorrow. 

These past several weeks have brought many challenges as a friend.  Ups and downs wouldn't even begin to describe the juggling of emotions we have shared together.  Yet through it all, there was a constant joy, hope, and comfort in the lives of us all as we share the same dependence and faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  This journey started with a friend who shared her wonderful news about her expecting her third child.  It was a wonderful time of rejoicing!   However, a week after hearing of her joy, there came deep sadness as she found out she had a miscarriage.  Soon after, there was yet another friend who was sharing the joy of pregnancy only to share the next night that she too was experiencing signs of a miscarriage.  How devastating!  I've never experienced this depth of sadness and would not dare to venture out and say "I know what they are going through".  Nevertheless, I felt sympathy for them through their loss. 

The coming days led to yet another round of emotions as a dear friend shared her joy of expecting a third child.  Due to migraines and already experiencing nausea, she too has been at the forefront of my mind.  We are excited and looking forward to the joy of this new blessing!  However, there is yet two other sweet ladies and a family member who has not yet been able to have children.  They too will always be in my thoughts and prayers as I cannot begin to imagine the emptiness they feel.  How do we, as family members and friends, love others through their ups and downs?  How can we be excited for one yet feel sadness and sorrow for others? 

Sitting here this morning, The Lord brought several verses to mind...

Galatians 6:2
Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. 

Ecclesiastes 4
9Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. 10For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. 11Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? 12And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Proverbs 17:17
A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

Proverbs 18:24
A man [that hath] friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend [that] sticketh closer than a brother.

Proverbs 20:6
Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?

What kind of friend are you?  Far too often, I have not been there for another because of my own selfishness.  Maybe they have offended me and I have no obligation to be friendly to them.  They have in fact hurt me.  Or maybe I want to justify not bearing their burden because there was a time in my life when I was rejoicing or facing sorrow and they were not there for me.  I owe them nothing, right?  Wrong!  How often have I failed Jesus, the one who came to this earth, lived a sinless life, then died for me?  Far to often, my friends, we fail Him.  And he is our Creator.  He commands us to "love one another" even over our own self. 

Maybe you are facing many challenges today as you seek to minister to those you love.  Hold on to these verses and realize we cannot put all of our focus on just one but must demonstrate love to all.  Rejoice with those who are rejoicing and mourn with those who mourn.  Love as Jesus would expecting nothing in return! 

"My friends are my estate."
- Emily Dickinson

"A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart, and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten the words."
-Donna Roberts

"True friendship is sitting together in silence and feeling like it was the best conversation you've ever had."

Weather Changes Matthew 6:25-34

Weather has always intrigued me, amazed me, and certainly gotten my attention.  My husband will tell you that my favorite channel is The Weather Channel.  Though now I have a great respect for the weather that God sends our way, I do not fear it near as much as I use to.  However, I am daily reminded that my God is in control of ALL things.  Weather included!

Several weeks ago, as we were driving down the road, we encountered a severe thunderstorm.  One of the fiercest I had ever been through.  Worry overcame me, and the fear was paralyzing.  Then in the midst of the terror, there was a ray of sun in the distance.  As we drove closer to the clearing, there appeared a rainbow.  A vivid reminder that the God of the thunderstorm is also God of the sun!  I began to weep and almost had a joyous fit over how mighty and powerful God is!  My friend was in the vehicle behind us and we began texting (neither of us were driving) about how magnificent our Lord was!  Why would I fret?  Why should I fear?  Just this morning, I was reading of a little girl who was walking through a lightening show and her mother was asking her why she showed no sign of fear.  Her response was that God was taking her picture!  It's all in how we percieve it! 

I have been greatly burdened by the careless remarks I hear daily about the weather.  Yes, there are days when it is very hot.  And there are days when it is very cold.  There are days when it is raining and we want it to be sunny and days when it is dry and we want it to rain.  For instance, I live in South Georgia and it is fall.  However, for the past four days, we have had uncharacteristic weather for the season we are in.  It has been rather warm, and I have been sweating.  It is also very dry, and we are in much need of rain.  It is easy to live in the here and now and think of our situation at hand and complain about how miserable we are.  Why do we complain? 

One reason we tend to complain is because others do.  It has been said that negative rubs off faster than positive.  Our friends are fussing about how miserable they are, so we do too.  Another reason we complain is because we are selfish.  We have an outdoor event planned and it is raining on our parade.  We've picked out beautiful fall sweaters for our outdoor family pictures and today's forecast is predicting record high temperatures.  Another reason I feel we complain is because we have forgotten who God is.  We have forgotten that He made the heaven and the earth, the sky and the sea, the land and the plants, and even us.  Instead of having a great respect, reverence, or fear of our Creator, we speak of Him and His Creation as though it were an unwanted piece of artwork.  I don't think we intentionally set out to dishonor Him, but when we forget who He is, it happens oh so suddenly. 

I've often pondered why there is such drastic changes in temperature.  Why sometimes the weather is uncharacteristic for the intended season.  But as I shared with the high school girls just recently, God has a plan for everything!  He looks after the birds just as He does you and I.  What if one tiny sparrow has a broken wing and He is allowing the warm temperature to linger until the little bird heals and can get to warmer weather.  What if the homeless man you pass on a daily basis is fighting an infection and He is postponing the cool weather for a day or two in order for the man to heal.  The "what ifs" could go on and on, but the question really is who are we to complain?  Remarks are one thing, but complaining is quite another. 

Dear friend, we are not dealing with "Mother Nature".  Nor are we speaking with "The Man Upstairs".  All of us were designed and created especially by Him and for Him; to bring glory to His name!  As I was reading in Exodus this morning with my youngest son, I was reminded of how the Israelites had been so quick to forget about all of the things God had brought them through and began to allow a complaining spirit to consume them.  Have you, as I have so often found myself, forgotten about all that God has brought you through?  Have you forgotten how holy He is and how sinful you are?  I am convinced that if we remind ourselves daily of His goodness and our sinfulness we will become dependant upon Him for our every breath.  And our lips will speak of His majesty, glory, and power!

Are you in need of an attitude change?

How do others view your God based on how you speak of His creation?

What are some "what ifs" you can ponder the next time you are tempted to complain about the
weather?

Never say it's a "bad" storm.  God doesn't make anything bad.  Instead, say it's a rough storm. 
~my mom

Adopted!!! Ephesians 1

As I sit to write this blog, I am reminded of the fact that my daughter will turn 14 this Friday!  Where did the time go?  It seems like only yesterday I had her cuddled in my arms with feelings of overwhelming love and fear all at the same time.  As a new mom, we all wonder how we could ever love anyone more and question how we will ever be able to protect our children and care for them the way God has intended for us to.  For myself, there were even greater emotions as I cradled my newborn and wondered who would ever "choose" us. 


You see, I was a single mom setting out to raise a little girl on my own.  There were obvious, overwhelming questions that I struggled with.  But God had even greater plans for us than I could have ever imagined!  He sent us the most wonderful husband / father that any girl(s) could ever ask for.  We were so blessed to have a man who chose us!  Who loves us and accepts us unconditionally! 


Several years ago, while driving down the road, I explained this to my daughter.  I shared how much her daddy loved her and chose to be her daddy; the same way that God chooses us to be His very own!  In Ephesians, Paul explains to us that as Christians, we will receive the same inheritance from God our Father as Jesus!  Just as my daughter will inherit the same blessing as her siblings, we will gain the same inheritance as Jesus!  Can you even begin to wrap your mind around that thought, dear friend? 


How about you?  Do you feel neglected?  Like no one loves you?  Do you feel lonely?  Like no one understands where you've been or the hurt you've felt?  Do you feel abandoned?  The ones you thought loved you and cared for you have left you for bigger or better dreams?  You are not alone!  I dare say we all have had these emotions at one time or another.  But God loved us so much that He sent His one and only Son, Jesus, to die for our sins.  He made a way for us to be connected to him!  How did He chose you?  Do you remember the very day that you were "adopted" into the Kingdom of Heaven? 


I'll never forget the day the judge ruled and the decision was final for my daughter to legally be adopted by my husband.  It was a day of celebration!  Do you vividly remember the day your name was changed and you became a child of God?  If not, you can.  Today can be the beginning of your celebration! 

Masks

As a child, I was intrigued by masks.  Mardi Gr as masks to be exact.  They are colorful, flashy, and glittery; what little girl isn't?  As my husband and I were shopping in St. Augustine last week, one of the shops had an array of them.  As I gazed at their beauty, my mind started to wander... 

How many colorful masks do I own?  Do I hide behind walls of guilt, bitterness, resentment and anger?  Do I fake good to hide bad?  Sadly, we often put on a front to disguise the real us!  Our purses are full of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, black, and white masks.  As we look at these eight colors, examine your own heart and see how many masks you own.

Let's start with red.  Red can be used as caution or warning, or as a sign of power and strength.  I like to grab my red mask when things are not going my way!  The one that, unfortunately, I put on yesterday morning as the house was a wreck (or so I thought) and it had to be dealt with immediately!  I was "cautioning" those around me, by my actions, that things were not as they should be and showing my "power" that they were going to be!  Instead of signaling caution to others that I'm frustrated, I need to allow the Holy Spirit to be in control of my actions and caution me to stop and ask for His help and guidance. "An angry man stirreth up strife, and a furious man aboundeth in transgression."  Proverbs 29:22

What about orange?  Orange is presently my favorite color, and it represents warmth.  When are my qualities warm and inviting?  When are others drawn to the God I serve and see His warmth present within my actions?  Only when I am walking daily with Him!   Only when I allow the Holy Spirit to guide my steps and guard my heart against any selfish ambition.  My husband and I love to host get togethers / parties, have people over for dinner or to just "hang out".  This is when my "orange mask" truly shines.  When I am serving and loving others.  At times, as I have shared with my closest friends, I don't feel like wearing the orange mask.  But as a Child of God, this is not an option!  "For all the law is fulfilled in one word, [even] in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself."  Galatians 5:14  "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."  Galatians 6:2   "Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality."  Romans 12:13

Yellow has two meanings.  One is cheerful, happy, or playful while the other is associated with being scared or a coward.  And, if you ask me, they can really go hand in hand.  Often times, the yellow mask may start off very happy, but end up a coward.  An example of this mask in my own life is when I have embraced what I think to be a most amazing idea; I share it with family and close friends and then announce it with a megaphone.  Just because I am excited and think it is marvelous, others should too, right?  Then as the idea is talked through or worked out, the excitement I feel may not be as exciting to those around me and I become a coward.  The yellow masks doesn't let anyone in for fear they may be hurt or mistreated.  These are those who jump in head first, giving their whole heart to a matter, but often end up on the bottom of the pool.  "It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider his vows."  Proverbs 20:25  "A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken."  Proverbs 15:13

Moving on to green.  I love a green mask.  It represents health, growth, nature, fertility, and safety.  This is the "second chance" mask.  The one we pull out when we want to start over.  We've sinned, missed the target, and need forgiveness.  I need to make sure I have a green mask in the van, my purse, and every room of the house!  How many times do I need to ask forgiveness for sinning against a Holy God and those around me?  More than I can count!  We must be dependant upon The Lord to convict us and then not too prideful to seek  forgiveness.  "[When] pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly [is] wisdom."  Proverbs 11:2  "A man's pride brings him low, but a man of lowly spirit gains honor."  Proverbs 29:23

Blue is a calming color.  It shows creativity, intelligence, loyalty, strength, wisdom, and trust.  When are you most creative?  To whom are you loyal?  When do you demonstrate strength and wisdom?  If we are allowing the Holy Spirit to consume us, this blue mask should never be one we have to "find".  It should always be woven within the other colors to reflect our loyalty to the God we serve and our dependence upon Him for wisdom and strength.  Through His guidance, we will be challenged to be creative in how we love and minister to others.  Blue is a staple!  "Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand."  Ephesians 6:13

Purple reflects nobility, royalty, and power.  This color, like blue, should be woven into everything we do.  If you are God's chosen child, adopted by Him to inherit an eternity in heaven, you are royalty!  (Ephesians 1:5)  And the same power that raised Jesus from the dead dwells within you, my friend!  (Romans 8:12)  Now that is something to get excited about and shout over!  Why is it, then, that we often live such defeated lives?  Our conversations do not always reflect the power over sin we encompass.  Nor does it reflect the "crown of royalty" we wear.  The negative, downcast spirit should not be a part of our wardrobe.  "But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:."  1 Peter 2:9

Black is used to often depict something evil, scary, or depressing.  We have all fallen into this category because God's word says "For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God".  That means no one is exempt from the wickedness they were born into.  You, like myself, were born a sinner.  Nothing you can or will do could ever make you any better apart from the saving grace of Jesus.  And nothing you can do will earn you the right to be called His child.  It is only through His shed blood that you can have forgiveness from your sin.  Yes, we are all born sinners, but there is hope!  Romans 6:23 says "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."  I was born in America, have a list of ancestors who were Christians, my dad is a pastor, husband is a full time minister, and I go to church!  That should count for something, right?  The Bible says "All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away.:  Isaiah 64:6  Nothing I have done will ever earn me the right to be one of God's chosen children.  It is only through the acknowledgment of my own sinfulness and recognizing my need for Him to save me from myself.  Are you wearing this mask?  You don't have to! 

White is a symbol of pure, clean, fresh, good, and positive.  Do you wear this mask, or dig it out when someone rings the doorbell?  Our motives should be good, right, and positive.  We should desire to serve The Lord in all we do.  When others are around us, they should leave knowing they have been in the presence of a Child of God. 

In Mardi Gr as, these masks are worn to hide identity.  If no one can recognize you, they don't know what you're doing.  My 10 month old loves to get into the "no no zone".  When we stop her, she makes eye contact and continues to explore while smiling.  If we're staring at her we can't see what she's doing (or so she thinks).  That's how we live our lives sometimes.  Always throwing on some mask so that others don't see the pain, hurt, or regret that we carry around. 


What color of mask do you mostly wear?

What color do you need to reflect more often?

If you don't like something change it; if you can't change it, change the way you think about it.  ~Mary Engelbreit

The Real Me by Natalie Grant

The Struggle With Sin Romans 7:15-20

Anne of Green Gables is one of my all time favorite movies.  She goes from being an unwanted orphan to a beloved daughter, friend, teacher, and wife.  Along the way, Anne had many lessons to learn.  She had a problem with controlling her temper and holding grudges.  Ouch!  One of the reasons I am drawn to her character is because she demonstrates many of the qualities I possess.  At one point in the movie, Anne is reminded by her school teacher of something she had once quoted.  "Tomorrow is always fresh with no mistakes in it." 

Too often, I "lose it".  I allow things to frustrate me, and my response is either to blow it or bury it (until I eventually blow it).  Why do I continue to struggle with this sin?  Can't I just acknowledge it, confess it, and ask God to zap it away?  Why does it have to be so hard?  Oftentimes, even after I have dealt with an issue, I will continue to beat myself up over past regrets and try to work so hard to "fix" it.  Then there is yet another sin to be dealt with... pride!  For when I think I have it under control and try to handle it in my own power, I have become prideful.  It is only through His strength that we are made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). 

Paul reminds us in Romans 7, that sin is a struggle.  It always will be!  But if we are saved, we have a new desire.  We love God's Word and hate our sin.  We stand before Him blameless.  Through Jesus, not by our own works, we are clean.  Our salvation is not dependant upon us, but Him.  Yes, we will struggle.  But praise be to God we do not live under condemnation anymore.  (Romans 8:1)

This week, I have had to remind myself that each day is precious.  How I spend each day counts!  The love I show (or don't show), the people I minister to (or choose not to minister to), the attitude I carry (good or bad), is the only memory I will leave behind.  Do others see Jesus in me? 

Remember... no matter what you've done or where you've been, "Tomorrow is always fresh, with no mistakes in it."

Enjoy this video as you remember that each day is a precious gift from God.
This Day

Bitter, or Better? 1 Thessalonians 5:14-18

As I sit to write this morning, I am reminded of just how ungrateful I have been this week.  I've been quick to compare myself to others and focus only on what was going on in our house on the corner.  But this morning, The Lord reminded me that things were not as bad as I had allowed myself to dream they were. 

This week has brought about many emotions that I had allowed to take root and consume me.  Monday, I sat with my thirteen year old daughter in the podiatrist office as we received news that she will be facing surgery on both of her feet to correct a bunion.  Most times, this surgery is optional, but in her case, they are severe and have to be corrected as they are causing other growth problems.  School has also had its share of challenges, as I'm sure you home school moms can relate to.  Some days are just smoother than others!  Our ten year old and eight month old are battling colds and seem to be as sensitive as their mom.  All a great reason to throw a pity party and crawl back in bed, right?  Wrong!

This morning, a dear lady we know is having surgery to remove cancer.  She will be facing a long road of recovery.  Saturday evening, I read through tears about the agony of a mother watching her two year old son battle surgery and chemotherapy to treat eye cancer.  Sunday evening during our church service, a lady shared her experiences on the mission field this summer.  We viewed pictures of people who were severely handicapped and in more physical frustration than many of us could ever dream about. 

Monday morning, I reminded my daughter that what she was facing had been planned out for us before we knew it!  We had not yet learned of this foot problem before we chose to follow the Lord's direction in home schooling.  She will not have to face the added challenges of sitting out of sports, missing class, or struggling to get around without our help.  And that reminder was directed back to me this morning as I sat ashamed of the way I had acted earlier this week.

Many of you are facing challenges far greater than my family and I have ever had to endure.  And you may question those hardships.  But learn from what I have far too often failed at and don't let those questions control you.  When you are discouraged, focus on others and your problems won't seem so big after all. 

How are you handling the problems facing you? 
Do you allow them to consume you?
Are they making you bitter or better?

Is it worth it? 1 John 2:15-17

Today is the big day!  Everyone is all dressed and ready for family pictures.  You have chosen khaki pants and white shirts as your color scheme for the year, and your setting will be a lovely wooden dock overlooking the lake of shining waters.  After managing to keep your two year old clean for over an hour now, you have finally reached your destination.  With great anticipation, you step out of your car to make your way over to the famous lake.  For a moment, all seems right.  But looking up, you stop dead in your tracks.  The only way to cross over to the lake of shining waters is to trample through a large pen of hogs who have been wallowing in thick, gooey mud.  Now you face the dreaded question.  Is it worth it?

That is the question my husband and I were faced with on Thursday evening as we sat down to watch a movie together.  We had rented a movie that had a "good Christian message".  Looking forward to our night of relaxation, we began to watch the DVD.  The movie seemed to be off to a pretty good start.  A little predictable, but still interesting.  Then came a party scene that became way to graphic.  Just as you think, "Okay, we get the idea", you are led to yet another "scene".  Good movie with a great message?  Not if I have to trample through the mud to get to the point.  Is it worth it?  That's a question only you can answer.  If the Holy Spirit is present and truly guiding your life, then you will know when it's time to say no. 

We live in this world, yes.  But we are called to have standards that reveal there is a change within us.  Not a list of rules that make us feel good and righteous, but an openness to hear the Holy Spirit guide us into truth when we have tricked ourselves into believing that what we are doing is "ok" or just a "bad habit" when in reality it is sin.

Oftentimes, I am pained by how much sin I have allowed in my life.  Don't be discouraged!  God is a God of love and forgiveness.   Recognize your sin, confess it, learn from it, and move on.  You can't live in the past, but you can learn from it and use it to point others in the right direction.

Rise and Shine 1 Corinthians 3:11-12

This morning, my husband and I were discussing the difference between "morning people" and "night owls".  You see, he is "one of those".  And I, most certainly, am not!  My mother knows exactly what I'm talking about because she too is very much a morning person.  You know the kind; they wake up with a cheerful song and expect you to be just as enthusiastic as they are.

Or, maybe as a morning person you have to face the frustrations of living with a night owl.  10 o'clock rolls around and we're up for a game of Scrabble.  Or how about a ride around town.  You look at "us" as though we've lost our mind while you are making your preparations for bed.

Our discussion this morning led me to a realization.  I had far too long used the excuse of "I'm just not a morning person" to dictate my choice of behavior.  Do I greet the morning with a cheerful song?  No.  Will I ever?  Probably not.  But does that give me an excuse to be grumpy?  Absolutely not! 

James 1:14 reminds us that we are tempted by our own fleshly desires.  If, when I wake up, I make the decision to live for my flesh, then that is the man I will feed.  If, however, I choose to ask The Lord to use this day to serve Him, I will feed the new man (2 Corinthians 5:17). 

How we allow the morning, or evening, to rule us will most certainly "rule us".  Don't allow excuses to control and dictate your behavior.  Why do we sin?  Because we allow our fleshly man to control us.  Or, because the enemy tempts us and we allow that temptation to take root and grow.

Learn to greet the morning with a smile in your heart.  No need for a cheerful song or sprint around the block.  Just an attitude of gratitude for a brand new day to serve Him!

How is your attitude each morning? 
What needs to change?
The "blame game" is over.  Now it's up to you!

Lord, thank you for revealing to me this area of sin I have allowed to control me.  Forgive me for excusing this behavior and have mercy on me as I begin each day.

Role Change 1 Corinthians 10:23-33

I was quickly reminded this morning, as I was reading my devotional, of what my purpose is for this time of my life.  For the past two Sunday evenings, our church has been challenged to evaluate what our purpose is here and now, and what our goals are for the future.  I had allowed the past few days to become pretty discouraging as I was reminiscing about the "good ole days".  Days that I'd spend the afternoon preparing for friends to come and eat dinner or dessert and hang out for the evening.  Whether swimming in the pool at our apartment, sitting in our cozy living room playing board games, or preparing to help train a young married friend some basic cooking skills, we were having fun! 

Then, our focus shifted to youth.  My husband is a full time youth minister and we have been enjoying pouring our lives into that ministry!  I remember the days of hanging out at our local coffee shop and playing Scrabble with the high school girls.  Or having sleepovers and staying up late chatting. 

However, this year's challenges have required me to focus even harder on our four children as we know The Lord has called us to home school them again this year.  All of this "change" and reminiscing had led me to have a sort of  pity party within.  Those days of staying up late playing games and hosting dinner parties may be gone.  But, as I was reading this morning from 1 Corinthians10:31 ,  I was reminded that the "good ole days" is nothing more than a role change!  Presently, my focus is to school our three older children and love on our 8 month old. 

Role changes are required as we grow older.  But the art of service remains the same.  Whether hosting parties, cooking for friends, or teaching my children, it should all be done "for the glory of God".  How about you?  Are you experiencing the aches and pains of a "role change"?  Maybe you have been called to enter the work force to help out your family.  And you don't WANT to!  Or, maybe God is leading you to stay home and you don't WANT to give up your job.  Are you being led to start a new ministry of your own, or join one that is presently meeting your needs?  Whatever you are facing today, do it all "for the glory of God".

What is your focus?
Have your "roles" changed?
Are you wallowing in self pity or living in the past?
If so... learn from this verse and CHANGE!

Thank you, Lord, for revealing this area of sin in my life and need for change.  Guide me as I accept this "role change" and embrace it as a treasured gift from You!