I'm compelled to speak about this subject. When we see someone struggling with a mental disorder, who slips back into darkness, do we walk away? Do we say, I can't do this any more, it's up to them?
I have a question for you if your answer is yes. Does God walk away from His children? Is this what He would want us to do?
We are a blessed people to have a Father in Heaven of whom never forsakes us. When we are down and out, who is there waiting to lift us back up? Who is there to walk us through it?
Now I know we have to stand strong, and be accountable for our own actions, but let me tell you from a first hand experience, when you are dealing with depression and other mental illnesses, it's not just cut and dry. You need people when you are struggling. You need someone to help hold you up.
I know it can be draining on others, but it's a fact of life. If you have someone reaching out to you, don't walk away, or say, "I just can't do this, they are bringing me down," or think, "I just don't have time for this." I have to admit, there are times I find myself reverting to the flesh and thinking, ugh, not now. Then I feel so bad!
Have you ever thought about the fact that when someone is really down, they are reaching out to you, and you either ignore them, or walk away from them what you may be doing to that person?
Now another big question. Can you live with yourself if that person ends up taking their life after they have come to you for support? I know I never could. I know taking ones life is such a taboo thought and that person was pathetic is the words of some. Wake up people! They are our sisters and brothers. Their problems and feelings are very real.
Above all, don't tell them they don't need their medication as it's evil, that it's a curse. It is a real medical problem that none of us can control with our thoughts. Yes, Hallelujah, God can heal us. But until then, those medications may be what saves that persons life. I know, I went off mine by faith, I almost killed myself.
Physicians were put on this earth for a reason. Medications were created for a reason. Don't play God with others lives. Instead, pray for them, ask for guidance for them, and encourage them. Be there for them. Support them. They need us plain and simple. Let God tell them when it is time to come off that medication, not you. He knows what's best. I'm so thankful my husband never walked away from me, as if he hadn't stood by me and prayed, I fear I would not be here today. Had he not insisted I see my doctor and get back on my medication, I probably would not be here today. I went off the medication under the watchful eye of my doctor, so it was done safely.
Sometimes I'm tired, and sometimes I don't want to deal with others problems, and then I remind myself, He doesn't walk away from us, what gives us the right to walk away from them? I will give until it hurts and will even still keep giving. Sacrifices are meant to be. Our sacrifices were small compared to God and Jesus.
May God smile down on you and Bless you abundantly in grace, peace, joy, and prosperity.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
His Presence
You're attending the Catalyst Convention and in the middle of worship. You feel His presence strong and mighty and your singing your heart out to him. All of a sudden, you know for sure He's there! With eyes closed you see a bust of Jesus just above us all. He's smiling a huge smile and you know He's happy. Then you hear the words, "I'm pleased with my children."
You speak, "Jesus! Thank you for joining us. We lift Your name on high and sing our praises to You." He's looking down happy!
There are people on both flanks of the stage dancing and you say, "Jesus, come dance with us as we honor You." The next thing you know, He's in the middle of those people from little to adult dancing and laughing. Then you see Him go to the little children and dance with them.
That experience was one of the most beautiful I've ever seen in church. It happened every night, but not the same each night. That was our last night of the conference. What a wonderful way to bring it to an end.
But it didn't stop there. When our Pastor began to speak and sing, there was Jesus speaking instead and angels were surrounding him singing. Many a time when our Pastor has been speaking, instead of seeing him there and hearing his voice, I knew it was the Lord speaking. The voice was not of our Pastor but rather that of what I knew was the Lord.
With that said, many lessons came from this past weekend. As you all have noticed, I don't blog that often, nor do I visit much at all. There is a sad reason for that; one that I've been convicted of for some time, but never heeded those promptings to end what was keeping me from where I was to be.
Right now our lessons are on "Whispers." Learning to hear the voice of the Lord. That first night our Pastors son was speaking. Just before he had us get silent, I hear "Facebook." I knew right away it was another conviction to stop the addiction to the games. Then we get silent and I hear, "follow" knew it meant I needed to start following the Lord. Then I hear "forward" knowing it meant to keep focusing on Jesus. Then I hear "obey" meaning I needed to start heeding His directions. "Seek" meaning to seek His Word on a daily basis. And "heed" meaning I needed to listen when He spoke to me.
Whew! I knew right then and there that I had no choice. Life was going to get ugly if I didn't obey this time. I've known I've had an addiction for some time. My husband and son kept prompting me to walk away. You know it's bad when you push your time limits and it causes you to run late. You know it's bad when you get grumpy because you want to get on and play but can't. You know it's bad when you get angry when interrupted while playing. Then the worst part getting worse with time, you shut out your family and friends, committing all your spare time to FB. Your house goes down hill, your shunning your duties as a daughter, sister, mother, wife, grandmother, and servant.
So I repented, asked for God's forgiveness and guidance. He took a hold of me, Praise be to God, and put me on track that night! The next morning I got on FB and typed out a note to all that I was done, I can't do it, as it is an addiction and addictions are a sin. I asked that if they ever saw me playing that they would remind me of why I quit in the first place.
Since then, I've been in the Word daily! That's a huge fete for me, as I would struggle with knowing I needed it, wanting to read, picking up the Bible, start to read and then get distracted and turn to the computer. At one point, I wanted to pick up my computer and throw it. I knew I was in trouble.
Getting rid of an addiction is so freeing!!! What a beautiful walk it has become. I'm spending time with my family. I'm not grumping at the grand kids, son and husband. I'm getting things done that needed to be done for a long time. I've reached out to family and friends again, and messages are coming to me to share now.
God is good and faithful all the time! We are a blessed people and should never take advantage of that. Imagine if He were to get frustrated with us and walk away from us the way I had my family and friends. Thank You Lord for never giving up on us.
So I will leave you with the following link that has some ways to help you with an addiction or other problem you may face to help you get back on track. Thank you hubs for sharing this with me so that others may receive help as well. http://www.crosswalk.com/spirituallife/11643948
Get quiet with the Lord. Listen for His whispers. Ask for revelation on areas you need to change. Repent for those that are keeping you from seeking and receiving His Word. Be free of anything that may be holding you back from hearing Him. May your walk with Him become stronger every day. May you receive His great blessings for you and His plan for you.
If anyone has an addiction story they would like to share or have written about, please share or leave a link to your story. Support and hearing testimonies of one another is a step forward. God Bless!
You speak, "Jesus! Thank you for joining us. We lift Your name on high and sing our praises to You." He's looking down happy!
There are people on both flanks of the stage dancing and you say, "Jesus, come dance with us as we honor You." The next thing you know, He's in the middle of those people from little to adult dancing and laughing. Then you see Him go to the little children and dance with them.
That experience was one of the most beautiful I've ever seen in church. It happened every night, but not the same each night. That was our last night of the conference. What a wonderful way to bring it to an end.
But it didn't stop there. When our Pastor began to speak and sing, there was Jesus speaking instead and angels were surrounding him singing. Many a time when our Pastor has been speaking, instead of seeing him there and hearing his voice, I knew it was the Lord speaking. The voice was not of our Pastor but rather that of what I knew was the Lord.
With that said, many lessons came from this past weekend. As you all have noticed, I don't blog that often, nor do I visit much at all. There is a sad reason for that; one that I've been convicted of for some time, but never heeded those promptings to end what was keeping me from where I was to be.
Right now our lessons are on "Whispers." Learning to hear the voice of the Lord. That first night our Pastors son was speaking. Just before he had us get silent, I hear "Facebook." I knew right away it was another conviction to stop the addiction to the games. Then we get silent and I hear, "follow" knew it meant I needed to start following the Lord. Then I hear "forward" knowing it meant to keep focusing on Jesus. Then I hear "obey" meaning I needed to start heeding His directions. "Seek" meaning to seek His Word on a daily basis. And "heed" meaning I needed to listen when He spoke to me.
Whew! I knew right then and there that I had no choice. Life was going to get ugly if I didn't obey this time. I've known I've had an addiction for some time. My husband and son kept prompting me to walk away. You know it's bad when you push your time limits and it causes you to run late. You know it's bad when you get grumpy because you want to get on and play but can't. You know it's bad when you get angry when interrupted while playing. Then the worst part getting worse with time, you shut out your family and friends, committing all your spare time to FB. Your house goes down hill, your shunning your duties as a daughter, sister, mother, wife, grandmother, and servant.
So I repented, asked for God's forgiveness and guidance. He took a hold of me, Praise be to God, and put me on track that night! The next morning I got on FB and typed out a note to all that I was done, I can't do it, as it is an addiction and addictions are a sin. I asked that if they ever saw me playing that they would remind me of why I quit in the first place.
Since then, I've been in the Word daily! That's a huge fete for me, as I would struggle with knowing I needed it, wanting to read, picking up the Bible, start to read and then get distracted and turn to the computer. At one point, I wanted to pick up my computer and throw it. I knew I was in trouble.
Getting rid of an addiction is so freeing!!! What a beautiful walk it has become. I'm spending time with my family. I'm not grumping at the grand kids, son and husband. I'm getting things done that needed to be done for a long time. I've reached out to family and friends again, and messages are coming to me to share now.
God is good and faithful all the time! We are a blessed people and should never take advantage of that. Imagine if He were to get frustrated with us and walk away from us the way I had my family and friends. Thank You Lord for never giving up on us.
So I will leave you with the following link that has some ways to help you with an addiction or other problem you may face to help you get back on track. Thank you hubs for sharing this with me so that others may receive help as well. http://www.crosswalk.com/spirituallife/11643948
Get quiet with the Lord. Listen for His whispers. Ask for revelation on areas you need to change. Repent for those that are keeping you from seeking and receiving His Word. Be free of anything that may be holding you back from hearing Him. May your walk with Him become stronger every day. May you receive His great blessings for you and His plan for you.
If anyone has an addiction story they would like to share or have written about, please share or leave a link to your story. Support and hearing testimonies of one another is a step forward. God Bless!
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Love Your Enemy
Today's message comes from Matthew 5:43-45
43: "You have heard that it was said, Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.
44: But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
45: so that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. For He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous."
This comes after a conversation with a friend and then coming home and reading this very passage. It inspired me to use our conversation to make a point.
The conversation started out with me talking about my hubby having been sick for over two months now. His first attack was his right shoulder area on his back hurting. His muscles were extremely tight and causing great pain. He went in and the doctor put him on muscle relaxers and pain pills. He was bed ridden the for a few days then seemed to be getting better.
During this time he hadn't been to church but one time. This was a concern. Not to mention his whole being had changed. His coloring was poor. I just kept praying. Shortly after he started experiencing pain in the left side. I found a not the size of a tennis ball at the base of his neck. I kept prompting him to go in and get it checked as I was concerned that it may be a herniated disc. He finally went in and we were shocked with the diagnosis.
While the doctor was checking him out, she found some vertebra's that were very tender further down his back which caused concern. She ordered an x-ray. When she returned with the results, she was shocked as well. He had pneumonia and also told us that he has advanced osteoarthritis. Wow!
So he was kept on the muscle relaxers as his muscles were tight from the pneumonia and the pain pills. I took him off of those, as I could see him going down hill fast. The doc said that the pain medication would keep him from coughing, which he needed to cough to get the junk out. He was bed ridden for a few days again.
But there was something else too. I could tell something just wasn't right. He had only been to church a couple of times. Was despondent often, coloring was poor. Just not himself at all.
After one of the services I talked to a Pastor who is a good friend of ours. I explained all that was going on and he prayed and then mentioned something I never thought about. One of our friends who was a pillar in the church, a godly man by all means who basically was a mentor to my husband had done something shocking to many. It really had an impact on us. We just couldn't believe it. How could a man like this do such a thing?
Well it never occurred to me the full impact it had on hubs. It really brought him down. It affected his faith and all. The illness came at the same time and totally reflected on the illness alone, thinking it all had to do with that.
So I shared with a friend that hubs has been sick and needed prayer as he still is, but also talked without mention of name or situation just the shock that something bad had happened to such an awesome couple.
What she said was profound. "He's a man. We all have our moments when we fall short." She then shared of a church where the Pastor had been with this church for years and one day it was found that he liked pornography. Oh the horror! She was amazed at the congregations reactions. How they just put him down, he needed to be put out of the church. He was labeled. Why? She was wondering why the people weren't praying and lifting him up and helping him overcome that addiction.
This Scripture says it like it is. We are to love our enemies. Except he should not have been viewed that way. He messed up. He had an addiction that should have been approached, prayed about, and received help and support to over come this addiction.
This is where so many of us fall short. Does God walk away from us when we mess up? No! Instead He puts people in our midst to help us become better people. Instead he prods us and urges us to try harder to be better people.
But plain and simple, we are of the flesh. We will have our short falls. So the next time we find ourselves judging someone, ask yourself how you would feel if you were in that person's shoes and were being condemned. Would you deserve that kind of treatment, or would you rather people reach out and try to help you walk through it, over come it and become a better person for it by learning and stopping that problem?
Remember the Scripture: Matthew 7:1-5
1: "Do not judge, so that you won't be judged.
2: For with judgment you use, ou will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
3: Why do you look at the speck in your brother's eye but don't notice the log in your own eye?
4: Or how can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out your eye,' and look there's a log in your eye?
5: Hypocrite! First take the log out of your eye and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye."
I'm guilty of judging others at times and am trying so hard to over come that. It's a trait I do not like.
Let the Spirit lead you and guide you. Before reacting to a situation, ask yourself how you would feel if someone responded to you in the way you were thinking of reacting. Let's get better at holding each other accountable for our actions/reactions. None of us are above one another. We are all equal.
Should we hold our leaders accountable? Of course, but with love and understanding just as our Father does with us. When they fall short, remind them, but don't turn away from them. Instead pray for them, give them a reminder in a manner that the Lord leads you to do. If you catch others condemning them, give them a gentle reminder of the proper attitude to have. Have a Christ like attitude! I know I sure want that more than anything.
Let's be the brothers and sisters we were meant to be. Our nationalities, skin color, age, sex, what ever the case doesn't matter. What matters is we are all God's children and should love one another, uphold one another, support one another through the good and the bad. Not just during the good.
Blessings to all of you. May your walk with the Lord be glorious and may we all glorify His great name!
43: "You have heard that it was said, Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.
44: But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
45: so that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. For He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous."
This comes after a conversation with a friend and then coming home and reading this very passage. It inspired me to use our conversation to make a point.
The conversation started out with me talking about my hubby having been sick for over two months now. His first attack was his right shoulder area on his back hurting. His muscles were extremely tight and causing great pain. He went in and the doctor put him on muscle relaxers and pain pills. He was bed ridden the for a few days then seemed to be getting better.
During this time he hadn't been to church but one time. This was a concern. Not to mention his whole being had changed. His coloring was poor. I just kept praying. Shortly after he started experiencing pain in the left side. I found a not the size of a tennis ball at the base of his neck. I kept prompting him to go in and get it checked as I was concerned that it may be a herniated disc. He finally went in and we were shocked with the diagnosis.
While the doctor was checking him out, she found some vertebra's that were very tender further down his back which caused concern. She ordered an x-ray. When she returned with the results, she was shocked as well. He had pneumonia and also told us that he has advanced osteoarthritis. Wow!
So he was kept on the muscle relaxers as his muscles were tight from the pneumonia and the pain pills. I took him off of those, as I could see him going down hill fast. The doc said that the pain medication would keep him from coughing, which he needed to cough to get the junk out. He was bed ridden for a few days again.
But there was something else too. I could tell something just wasn't right. He had only been to church a couple of times. Was despondent often, coloring was poor. Just not himself at all.
After one of the services I talked to a Pastor who is a good friend of ours. I explained all that was going on and he prayed and then mentioned something I never thought about. One of our friends who was a pillar in the church, a godly man by all means who basically was a mentor to my husband had done something shocking to many. It really had an impact on us. We just couldn't believe it. How could a man like this do such a thing?
Well it never occurred to me the full impact it had on hubs. It really brought him down. It affected his faith and all. The illness came at the same time and totally reflected on the illness alone, thinking it all had to do with that.
So I shared with a friend that hubs has been sick and needed prayer as he still is, but also talked without mention of name or situation just the shock that something bad had happened to such an awesome couple.
What she said was profound. "He's a man. We all have our moments when we fall short." She then shared of a church where the Pastor had been with this church for years and one day it was found that he liked pornography. Oh the horror! She was amazed at the congregations reactions. How they just put him down, he needed to be put out of the church. He was labeled. Why? She was wondering why the people weren't praying and lifting him up and helping him overcome that addiction.
This Scripture says it like it is. We are to love our enemies. Except he should not have been viewed that way. He messed up. He had an addiction that should have been approached, prayed about, and received help and support to over come this addiction.
This is where so many of us fall short. Does God walk away from us when we mess up? No! Instead He puts people in our midst to help us become better people. Instead he prods us and urges us to try harder to be better people.
But plain and simple, we are of the flesh. We will have our short falls. So the next time we find ourselves judging someone, ask yourself how you would feel if you were in that person's shoes and were being condemned. Would you deserve that kind of treatment, or would you rather people reach out and try to help you walk through it, over come it and become a better person for it by learning and stopping that problem?
Remember the Scripture: Matthew 7:1-5
1: "Do not judge, so that you won't be judged.
2: For with judgment you use, ou will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
3: Why do you look at the speck in your brother's eye but don't notice the log in your own eye?
4: Or how can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out your eye,' and look there's a log in your eye?
5: Hypocrite! First take the log out of your eye and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye."
I'm guilty of judging others at times and am trying so hard to over come that. It's a trait I do not like.
Let the Spirit lead you and guide you. Before reacting to a situation, ask yourself how you would feel if someone responded to you in the way you were thinking of reacting. Let's get better at holding each other accountable for our actions/reactions. None of us are above one another. We are all equal.
Should we hold our leaders accountable? Of course, but with love and understanding just as our Father does with us. When they fall short, remind them, but don't turn away from them. Instead pray for them, give them a reminder in a manner that the Lord leads you to do. If you catch others condemning them, give them a gentle reminder of the proper attitude to have. Have a Christ like attitude! I know I sure want that more than anything.
Let's be the brothers and sisters we were meant to be. Our nationalities, skin color, age, sex, what ever the case doesn't matter. What matters is we are all God's children and should love one another, uphold one another, support one another through the good and the bad. Not just during the good.
Blessings to all of you. May your walk with the Lord be glorious and may we all glorify His great name!
Thursday, December 9, 2010
The Gift: Part I
Today while thinking about some people that had mentioned that they would really like to get certian books from the Family Christian Book Store but couldn't really afford it, I thought, "how can we help them?"
But another question popped into my head, "Can we afford to help them? How much giving is too much?" We have been giving to a lot of areas and we need to make sure we do so with in our means."
Silly me, there I go thinking again. We can never give too much. Jehovah Jireh will always provide. So some simple ideas came to mind as to how to accomplish helping them along with gift giving and still live with in our means.
#1: For those that are wanting to get books, give them a gift card to get the things they want. If you are a member of one of those places and have coupons, give them a coupon to use as well. You are allowing them to grow stronger in the Lord by getting those much sought after books. If you know the exact book they want, then get it for them.
#2: Another solution outside of giving with getting books to those that can't afford them; I'm going to make a list of all our books and loan them out. I am going to ask for them back so that anyone that wants to read them they will get circulated around and so that hubs and I can still read the ones we have not been able to get to yet. Why not share what you have and let more people gain from them. Again, this is outside of gift giving, but you are still giving to those in need in another sense.
#3: Now this one I know is going to be stepping on some toes, but it is true and to the point.
When giving to someone of low to middle incomes, give them a gift that is going to really stretch for them. Keep in mind that they can not go to expensive places. This thought came after hearing some that only shop at "the good places" stated they would never set foot in a Walmart or Savers or Marshalls etc just to name a few. I thought, wow! you are missing out on some great deals! My heart went out to them, especially since I knew that they were having financial struggles.
I thought of food and how some would love to have a little more and would love to have a nice holiday meal. So why not give them a gift certificate to a local savings grocery store? For instance here we have Winco and Walmart which are very competive in their pricing and try to offer their customers low cost items. We also have the high end grocery stores such as Alberston's and Fred Meyers. Now I know they often offer better looking/quality items, but they are pricey and those on low-middle incomes often can not afford those prices.
So instead of giving them a gift card to a high end store which they most likely will feel uncomfortable going into and not be able to purchase much, give them a card for a low end place where they can get more for the amount. They will greatly appreciate it, believe me. I know as I have lived the low income aspect and am middle class. I know how much it helps to live well within our means. This is what has made it possible for us to give more and more.
Now some of you may say, well those that can't afford to go to the high end places would surely appreciate the ability to do so. Why this may be true to some extent, it is still keeping them from getting more for the amount of the gift. Why not let them get more out of it. And it spares them that uncomfortableness of, "Gosh, I just don't feel right paying this for that item." Save them the stress. Give them a practical gift that they can truly enjoy.
By the way, I'm talking from experience and through the eyes and thoughts of many. Think about the person, about their life style and then think about what would make a good gift. No matter what, a person receiving will be gracious and it isn't with in them to tell you, "Well sorry but I just don't like this." But I've heard from many, "I know they are just trying to be nice, but this just isn't me. I don't have the money to spend on this kind of stuff and I'm just not comfortable wearing it, or using it," or what ever the case may be.
Keep in mind, it's not about money. Nothing ever should be about "money." I don't care how much money you have. Be kind, keep your nose down out of the air, don't be stuffy, don't judge others because they don't dress like you do or have the things you have. Who cares? Crimeny, if we all were rich/well to do, life would be dull. Besides, those of us that have had to work hard to get what we have, have learned to appreciate what we have. So stay down off your high faluten pedestal and use common sense. Give from the heart, not from the ways of the world. Don't make it about you, but rather make it about the person you are giving to. For some it wouldn't hurt for you to come down out of the clouds and humble yourselves.
When reading back through this, I realized I needed to state that I'm not trying to be mean nor judgmental. I'm just talking from experience and through the eyes of others as well. I've met those, "I'm too good for you" type people that have to outgive others, have to have the best of anyone, have to give their children nothing but the best, etc.
#4: When giving to your children, the best thing you can do is not go over board. As when you spoil a child they keep expecting it and don't learn to appreciate what they do have. Of course treat them special, but do the giving with in your means instead of putting yourself in debt. It reminds me of the commercial where the guy talks about all this "stuff" he and his family have and then he says, "Somebody help me please, I'm in debt up to my ears."
But this subject will be left for another post on a lesson hard learnt for hubs and I. Beleive me, spending--especially around the holidays--within your means will keep you from having headaches and night mares and working your fingers to the bones trying make ends meet. If you don't have it, don't spend it! Again, a lot of this comes from the Lord leading me to help others, and also from the voice of experience in all the areas talked about.
God's great Blessings abundantly to you. May you find great peace, joy, health, prosperity, good health this beautiful holiday season. And above all, don't forget the real meaning of Christmas.
But another question popped into my head, "Can we afford to help them? How much giving is too much?" We have been giving to a lot of areas and we need to make sure we do so with in our means."
Silly me, there I go thinking again. We can never give too much. Jehovah Jireh will always provide. So some simple ideas came to mind as to how to accomplish helping them along with gift giving and still live with in our means.
#1: For those that are wanting to get books, give them a gift card to get the things they want. If you are a member of one of those places and have coupons, give them a coupon to use as well. You are allowing them to grow stronger in the Lord by getting those much sought after books. If you know the exact book they want, then get it for them.
#2: Another solution outside of giving with getting books to those that can't afford them; I'm going to make a list of all our books and loan them out. I am going to ask for them back so that anyone that wants to read them they will get circulated around and so that hubs and I can still read the ones we have not been able to get to yet. Why not share what you have and let more people gain from them. Again, this is outside of gift giving, but you are still giving to those in need in another sense.
#3: Now this one I know is going to be stepping on some toes, but it is true and to the point.
When giving to someone of low to middle incomes, give them a gift that is going to really stretch for them. Keep in mind that they can not go to expensive places. This thought came after hearing some that only shop at "the good places" stated they would never set foot in a Walmart or Savers or Marshalls etc just to name a few. I thought, wow! you are missing out on some great deals! My heart went out to them, especially since I knew that they were having financial struggles.
I thought of food and how some would love to have a little more and would love to have a nice holiday meal. So why not give them a gift certificate to a local savings grocery store? For instance here we have Winco and Walmart which are very competive in their pricing and try to offer their customers low cost items. We also have the high end grocery stores such as Alberston's and Fred Meyers. Now I know they often offer better looking/quality items, but they are pricey and those on low-middle incomes often can not afford those prices.
So instead of giving them a gift card to a high end store which they most likely will feel uncomfortable going into and not be able to purchase much, give them a card for a low end place where they can get more for the amount. They will greatly appreciate it, believe me. I know as I have lived the low income aspect and am middle class. I know how much it helps to live well within our means. This is what has made it possible for us to give more and more.
Now some of you may say, well those that can't afford to go to the high end places would surely appreciate the ability to do so. Why this may be true to some extent, it is still keeping them from getting more for the amount of the gift. Why not let them get more out of it. And it spares them that uncomfortableness of, "Gosh, I just don't feel right paying this for that item." Save them the stress. Give them a practical gift that they can truly enjoy.
By the way, I'm talking from experience and through the eyes and thoughts of many. Think about the person, about their life style and then think about what would make a good gift. No matter what, a person receiving will be gracious and it isn't with in them to tell you, "Well sorry but I just don't like this." But I've heard from many, "I know they are just trying to be nice, but this just isn't me. I don't have the money to spend on this kind of stuff and I'm just not comfortable wearing it, or using it," or what ever the case may be.
Keep in mind, it's not about money. Nothing ever should be about "money." I don't care how much money you have. Be kind, keep your nose down out of the air, don't be stuffy, don't judge others because they don't dress like you do or have the things you have. Who cares? Crimeny, if we all were rich/well to do, life would be dull. Besides, those of us that have had to work hard to get what we have, have learned to appreciate what we have. So stay down off your high faluten pedestal and use common sense. Give from the heart, not from the ways of the world. Don't make it about you, but rather make it about the person you are giving to. For some it wouldn't hurt for you to come down out of the clouds and humble yourselves.
When reading back through this, I realized I needed to state that I'm not trying to be mean nor judgmental. I'm just talking from experience and through the eyes of others as well. I've met those, "I'm too good for you" type people that have to outgive others, have to have the best of anyone, have to give their children nothing but the best, etc.
#4: When giving to your children, the best thing you can do is not go over board. As when you spoil a child they keep expecting it and don't learn to appreciate what they do have. Of course treat them special, but do the giving with in your means instead of putting yourself in debt. It reminds me of the commercial where the guy talks about all this "stuff" he and his family have and then he says, "Somebody help me please, I'm in debt up to my ears."
But this subject will be left for another post on a lesson hard learnt for hubs and I. Beleive me, spending--especially around the holidays--within your means will keep you from having headaches and night mares and working your fingers to the bones trying make ends meet. If you don't have it, don't spend it! Again, a lot of this comes from the Lord leading me to help others, and also from the voice of experience in all the areas talked about.
God's great Blessings abundantly to you. May you find great peace, joy, health, prosperity, good health this beautiful holiday season. And above all, don't forget the real meaning of Christmas.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Eyes Open, Ears Hearing Part II
I wasn't going to make this post part of this session, but realized that it fits right in. As always, amazed and in awe of His perfect timing. I just visited a few blogs and was so touched and in awe of how a couple of them dealt with this situation. I wasn't going to do any visiting tonight, just get on, type away and be done. I'm glad it didn't work that way.
Any hoo, hubs and I were discussing a situation that has popped up again in our family. We were talking of our concerns, well I was doing most of the talking, as I have that need to have things out in the open. Humph...As I was talking it occurred to me that we have been down this road many a time and have always come out of it, but I still said, "Why do we keep going through this? I wish the Lord would grab hold of him and hold on to him." Then it hit me.
This isn't his time to come to the Lord completely. He isn't ready for the fullness of the Lord. He still has trials to go through before fully giving himself to the Lord.
Then I stated, "I know he isn't ready, but it's so hard to watch our children suffer and go through these stages in their lives. Just when we think life is getting on track, wham, smacked back down." But we all want the best for our children and don't want to see them suffer. On the same token, we know they must go through their trials in order to learn.
It's easy to sit back and think, "Darn, why didn't I do this or that differently? Perhaps our kids wouldn't be going through all this 'garbage'". But then I stop and remember, God has our lives already planned out. He knows what is going to happen before it actually happens.
So in ending I said to hubs, "What am I thinking? He never gives us more than we can handle. But it is hard to watch them suffer."
That's when I realized that a post was at hand, and while contemplating how I wanted to present it, it occurred to me how much God suffered giving of His only begotten Son. Watching His Son suffer for our sins so that we could come to Him through Christ. Wow! Imagine giving your child or the closest person to you like that. Imagine the pain you would go through. Imagine what Mary His mother and the disciples and Mary Magdalen must have felt.
So I am reminded once again that it is in His hands. We watched the rest of the Book of John tonight, which I will write about next time, but I felt at ease again. The past two days in the late afternoon I've felt a heaviness. I tried to rebuke it, shake it, talk about it, but nothing helped. Then between the movie and the revelations, that heaviness once again is broken. That and the reading of other blogs.
Thank You Lord for all the great people You have placed in my life at the right time and place. Your timing is always perfect. Thank You for providing me with a wonderful God fearing husband. It's funny, as I finished with the revelations that came to me as I was discussing the situation with hubs, he chuckles. It's because he likes seeing that I am in the Lord and the Lord is in me and I am led to where I need to be and receive the answers as I speak. Sometimes I get frustrated as he doesn't say much, just a umhum or yup or what ever. But he is wise and knows he doesn't need to speak as when I let Him in, then I will have the answers.
Back to the situation. I realize that there are times we must travel down that dark road, sink in the dark miry pit, or walk what seems to be alone, allowing the enemy to do his dirty work as He is using this time to draw us nearer, to teach us what He wants us to learn at that time. Only He knows what will work for us.
Some of us come to Christ early on, and walk a pretty up righteous life, while others come to Him as a young adult, while others at a later age. That used to bother me, but now; I know that He had a plan for all of us. Hubs and & endured some pretty harsh situations. Some that are too embarrassing to talk of unless the time is brought up that it is necessary to help someone else. We go through those walks so we can shed some light. So that God will receive all the Glory and His light will shine.
So once again, I will walk beside my son, knowing that God has a hand in this and accept our trials joyfully, for each time our son is led back, his faith is stronger and he offers so much. Work in him Lord, teach him and lead him back to You. You know his heart. You know his love for you. He's lost but You our Sheppard will lead him back to the flock. Thank You Jesus!
Be blessed everyone. Smile often, Hug a lot, Love always. You never know who you are talking to or dealing with. ;) Peace and Joy to all!
Any hoo, hubs and I were discussing a situation that has popped up again in our family. We were talking of our concerns, well I was doing most of the talking, as I have that need to have things out in the open. Humph...As I was talking it occurred to me that we have been down this road many a time and have always come out of it, but I still said, "Why do we keep going through this? I wish the Lord would grab hold of him and hold on to him." Then it hit me.
This isn't his time to come to the Lord completely. He isn't ready for the fullness of the Lord. He still has trials to go through before fully giving himself to the Lord.
Then I stated, "I know he isn't ready, but it's so hard to watch our children suffer and go through these stages in their lives. Just when we think life is getting on track, wham, smacked back down." But we all want the best for our children and don't want to see them suffer. On the same token, we know they must go through their trials in order to learn.
It's easy to sit back and think, "Darn, why didn't I do this or that differently? Perhaps our kids wouldn't be going through all this 'garbage'". But then I stop and remember, God has our lives already planned out. He knows what is going to happen before it actually happens.
So in ending I said to hubs, "What am I thinking? He never gives us more than we can handle. But it is hard to watch them suffer."
That's when I realized that a post was at hand, and while contemplating how I wanted to present it, it occurred to me how much God suffered giving of His only begotten Son. Watching His Son suffer for our sins so that we could come to Him through Christ. Wow! Imagine giving your child or the closest person to you like that. Imagine the pain you would go through. Imagine what Mary His mother and the disciples and Mary Magdalen must have felt.
So I am reminded once again that it is in His hands. We watched the rest of the Book of John tonight, which I will write about next time, but I felt at ease again. The past two days in the late afternoon I've felt a heaviness. I tried to rebuke it, shake it, talk about it, but nothing helped. Then between the movie and the revelations, that heaviness once again is broken. That and the reading of other blogs.
Thank You Lord for all the great people You have placed in my life at the right time and place. Your timing is always perfect. Thank You for providing me with a wonderful God fearing husband. It's funny, as I finished with the revelations that came to me as I was discussing the situation with hubs, he chuckles. It's because he likes seeing that I am in the Lord and the Lord is in me and I am led to where I need to be and receive the answers as I speak. Sometimes I get frustrated as he doesn't say much, just a umhum or yup or what ever. But he is wise and knows he doesn't need to speak as when I let Him in, then I will have the answers.
Back to the situation. I realize that there are times we must travel down that dark road, sink in the dark miry pit, or walk what seems to be alone, allowing the enemy to do his dirty work as He is using this time to draw us nearer, to teach us what He wants us to learn at that time. Only He knows what will work for us.
Some of us come to Christ early on, and walk a pretty up righteous life, while others come to Him as a young adult, while others at a later age. That used to bother me, but now; I know that He had a plan for all of us. Hubs and & endured some pretty harsh situations. Some that are too embarrassing to talk of unless the time is brought up that it is necessary to help someone else. We go through those walks so we can shed some light. So that God will receive all the Glory and His light will shine.
So once again, I will walk beside my son, knowing that God has a hand in this and accept our trials joyfully, for each time our son is led back, his faith is stronger and he offers so much. Work in him Lord, teach him and lead him back to You. You know his heart. You know his love for you. He's lost but You our Sheppard will lead him back to the flock. Thank You Jesus!
Be blessed everyone. Smile often, Hug a lot, Love always. You never know who you are talking to or dealing with. ;) Peace and Joy to all!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Eyes Open, Ears Hearing Part I
How I love it when He reveals things to us at the right time. Tonight hubs and I were watching the book of John. It's a 3 hour movie. We only made it half way through. Can't wait to see the rest of it. So a part of this will come from a letter read, and another part or parts will come from the movie watched.
Today I woke up in pain pretty much every where, and as the day rolled on, I started to feel frumpy. I tried to rebuke it, push past it, but no good. I sat down and done the prayer sheet which usually has me floating on air, but no good. Hubs comes home and I'm still frumpy, not knowing why. I sat in the front room, mainly just wanting to be alone. I started cleaning up my desk and the remnants of Christmas decorating when I came across a mailing from Dr. Charles Stanley. This is when the first start of revelations happened.
In the letter Dr. Stanley talked about we all too often get caught up in the worldly ways of Christmas and often forget what Christmas really signifies. We forget the birth of Christ and why He came to earth. We forget the spirit of giving. Instead we are so wrapped up in how we must get this and that for so and so, and so and so. We worry about getting the latest gadgets, feeling we just must have them.
But that's not what it's all about. It's not about our desires, our wants, it's about Christ! It's about what God wants of us. Shouldn't we be more concerned about the widows and the children rather than ourselves? Shouldn't we be helping and caring for the needy? After all, doesn't He stand faithful to us?
I read farther and thought wow; this is the perfect answer to a problem I've been trying to find the right solution to. This year finances are very tight, but I'm not worried about it like I used to be. I know that Jehovah Rophe will provide. I also felt in my spirit that He is using this time to do some teaching. Not necessarily to us, but to our family. Our daughter has ran into financial difficulties as well, and well, Christmas is looking pretty bleak.
Christmas has always been big in our family. We wanted to give, give, give. Yes, it's good to an extent, but we often more than not, go over board. We don't want for the kids to want. I looked back at all the years of finding under the trees presents stacked high. I remember the delight in seeing all those. We never bickered though as to whether one got more than the other, or anything like that. We were just happy to have new clothes and toys.
We did however often wonder why some of our friends got more things and bigger and better things. We knew mom and dad couldn't afford those things, yet we still yearned. Never mind the friends that hardly got anything. Did we ponder that one. Well, yes, to some degree. Our hearts went out to them, but not like it should have.
So now I look at our grand kids who worry about how many each one gets and whether or not one got more or better things than the other. I am a firm believer in treating each one equally and try hard, but have blundered in previous years. I watch in wonderment as to how they can grab those packages, rip them open and toss it aside to do the same with each gift, then sit there and complain as they wanted this and that. My heart used to break over not being able to satisfy them.
I think back over how my daughter and I would stress over making sure we met their "desires". Now I kick myself as we didn't instill in them the real meaning of Christmas. Yes, giving to them and making them happy is a joy, but I also want them to "really" get the feeling of what it is all about. I wondered how to go about then when Dr. Stanley talked of how his son while sitting at the table as a teen and said, "Dad, I'm glad you didn't give me everything I wanted." Dr. Stanley asked him why he said that. Andy proceeded to tell him about how he has seen other kids messed up by getting everything they want. I too see that. Some become arrogant and aloof to those who do not have it all. Others are just plain greedy and don't know what it's like to give of themselves and so on. Their lives become a total mess, full of turmoil and stress.
So this year, there won't be a pile of gifts under the tree. I know they will have a hard time with that, but instead a good gift that will help create family time will be under the tree instead. Jesus will be discussed, parts of the Bible read, and the true Spirit of Christmas will fill our home. I know that some day they will be thankful that we changed our ways. I pray our daughter comes to the realization as well.
I will continue this story at a later date. I do have more revelation to add to this but a different subject. None the less it all falls under eyes open and ears hearing. Thank You Jesus!
Today I woke up in pain pretty much every where, and as the day rolled on, I started to feel frumpy. I tried to rebuke it, push past it, but no good. I sat down and done the prayer sheet which usually has me floating on air, but no good. Hubs comes home and I'm still frumpy, not knowing why. I sat in the front room, mainly just wanting to be alone. I started cleaning up my desk and the remnants of Christmas decorating when I came across a mailing from Dr. Charles Stanley. This is when the first start of revelations happened.
In the letter Dr. Stanley talked about we all too often get caught up in the worldly ways of Christmas and often forget what Christmas really signifies. We forget the birth of Christ and why He came to earth. We forget the spirit of giving. Instead we are so wrapped up in how we must get this and that for so and so, and so and so. We worry about getting the latest gadgets, feeling we just must have them.
But that's not what it's all about. It's not about our desires, our wants, it's about Christ! It's about what God wants of us. Shouldn't we be more concerned about the widows and the children rather than ourselves? Shouldn't we be helping and caring for the needy? After all, doesn't He stand faithful to us?
I read farther and thought wow; this is the perfect answer to a problem I've been trying to find the right solution to. This year finances are very tight, but I'm not worried about it like I used to be. I know that Jehovah Rophe will provide. I also felt in my spirit that He is using this time to do some teaching. Not necessarily to us, but to our family. Our daughter has ran into financial difficulties as well, and well, Christmas is looking pretty bleak.
Christmas has always been big in our family. We wanted to give, give, give. Yes, it's good to an extent, but we often more than not, go over board. We don't want for the kids to want. I looked back at all the years of finding under the trees presents stacked high. I remember the delight in seeing all those. We never bickered though as to whether one got more than the other, or anything like that. We were just happy to have new clothes and toys.
We did however often wonder why some of our friends got more things and bigger and better things. We knew mom and dad couldn't afford those things, yet we still yearned. Never mind the friends that hardly got anything. Did we ponder that one. Well, yes, to some degree. Our hearts went out to them, but not like it should have.
So now I look at our grand kids who worry about how many each one gets and whether or not one got more or better things than the other. I am a firm believer in treating each one equally and try hard, but have blundered in previous years. I watch in wonderment as to how they can grab those packages, rip them open and toss it aside to do the same with each gift, then sit there and complain as they wanted this and that. My heart used to break over not being able to satisfy them.
I think back over how my daughter and I would stress over making sure we met their "desires". Now I kick myself as we didn't instill in them the real meaning of Christmas. Yes, giving to them and making them happy is a joy, but I also want them to "really" get the feeling of what it is all about. I wondered how to go about then when Dr. Stanley talked of how his son while sitting at the table as a teen and said, "Dad, I'm glad you didn't give me everything I wanted." Dr. Stanley asked him why he said that. Andy proceeded to tell him about how he has seen other kids messed up by getting everything they want. I too see that. Some become arrogant and aloof to those who do not have it all. Others are just plain greedy and don't know what it's like to give of themselves and so on. Their lives become a total mess, full of turmoil and stress.
So this year, there won't be a pile of gifts under the tree. I know they will have a hard time with that, but instead a good gift that will help create family time will be under the tree instead. Jesus will be discussed, parts of the Bible read, and the true Spirit of Christmas will fill our home. I know that some day they will be thankful that we changed our ways. I pray our daughter comes to the realization as well.
I will continue this story at a later date. I do have more revelation to add to this but a different subject. None the less it all falls under eyes open and ears hearing. Thank You Jesus!
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Psalm 111: Praise for the Lord's Works
Today is Thanksgiving and what a great Scripture to use.
1 Hallelujha! I will praise the Lord with all my heart in the assembly of the upright and in the congregation.
2 The Lord's works are great, studied by all who delight in them.
3 All that He does is splendid and majestic; His righteousness endures forever.
4 He has caused His wonderful works to be remembered. The Lord is gracious and compassionate.
5 He has provided food for those who fear Him; He remembers His covenant forever.
6 He has shown His people the power of His works by giving them the inheritance of the nations.
7 The works of His hands are truth and justice; all His instructions are trustworthy.
8 They are established forever and ever, enacted in truth and uprighteousness.
9 He has sent redemption to His people. He has ordained His covenant forever. His name is holy and awe-inspiring.
10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His instructions have good insight. His praise endures forever.
(CBS version)
1 Hallelujha! I will praise the Lord with all my heart in the assembly of the upright and in the congregation.
2 The Lord's works are great, studied by all who delight in them.
3 All that He does is splendid and majestic; His righteousness endures forever.
4 He has caused His wonderful works to be remembered. The Lord is gracious and compassionate.
5 He has provided food for those who fear Him; He remembers His covenant forever.
6 He has shown His people the power of His works by giving them the inheritance of the nations.
7 The works of His hands are truth and justice; all His instructions are trustworthy.
8 They are established forever and ever, enacted in truth and uprighteousness.
9 He has sent redemption to His people. He has ordained His covenant forever. His name is holy and awe-inspiring.
10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His instructions have good insight. His praise endures forever.
(CBS version)
The Hoppers - Shoutin' Time
We do have so much to be thankful for. We go through our trials, dark times, times of wonderment, but through it all a light shines. Give thanks as it is "Shoutin' Time!"
Give Thanks!
I am thankful for so many things that I couldn't begin to put them all down, but these are the main ones. First and foremost; I'm so thank for our Lord and Savior. For with Him so much joy has been brought to our lifes. Freedom! I'm thankful for the church we were led to. I'm thankful for the leaders of the church for were it not for them being annointed and teaching the "WORD" we may still be stumbling. I'm thankful for the staff and the countless hours they give to make sure the church continues to function. The Church family that we are able to fe...llowship with and learn from one another.
I'm thankful for my wonderful husband who has become such a great leader of our family so full of love; a true man of God. I'm thankful for our son and daughter who brings so much joy to our lives. I'm thankful for our grand children who teach us patience and brings more joy to our lives. That we are able to spend a lot of time with most of them. I'm thankful for the friends we have made over the years and the new ones we continue to meet. I'm thankful for all my FB friends....and the list goes on and one. Great Blessings with peace, joy, love, kindness, understanding, patience, prosperity, and strength.
I'm thankful for my wonderful husband who has become such a great leader of our family so full of love; a true man of God. I'm thankful for our son and daughter who brings so much joy to our lives. I'm thankful for our grand children who teach us patience and brings more joy to our lives. That we are able to spend a lot of time with most of them. I'm thankful for the friends we have made over the years and the new ones we continue to meet. I'm thankful for all my FB friends....and the list goes on and one. Great Blessings with peace, joy, love, kindness, understanding, patience, prosperity, and strength.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
God's Great Mercy & Love!
Since my last post, so much good has happened. There has been some dark things that have struck, and I see many that are being struck, but the joy and happiness is there through it all.
You may ask, when you know many are hurting, down, ill, just plain down on their luck can you be happy? Well, let me explain some events that have taken place. I love His perfect timing. It's all helped me to grow by leaps and bounds in Him. Yes, I do feel for those hurting etc. My heart is with them and they are in my prayers. I love people and care deeply for everyone. When someone hurts, I hurt. But I don't want to be the one to keep them from recieving their blessings.
Attending the Womens Weekly group that our Pastor's wife and daughter-in-law bring to us has been a rewarding time. Our Pastor giving his message from John Bevere's Extraordinary has been amazing. He's been on fire with the Lord's Word. Being around so many great people it has been a pure blessing. Thank You Jesus!
I've learned how to redirect my prayers. I've learned not to focus on the person and/or problem, but rather worship and give thanks for what He is doing or going to do with that situation. I was handing the problems to the Lord, but never thanked Him that He was or would take care of the problem until the problem maybe was taken care of.
I'll tell you what, since using the various names of the Lord depending on the situation and thanking Him for what He is going to do has changed my life so much. It's been overwhelming and beautiful at the same time.
The first signs of things changing in the past week was all of a sudden feeling a much deeper love for my husband. I didn't think it possible, but it's beautiful! The other is my oldest grand son asking questions, stating concerns and recieving the Lord. I've watched him transform into a very nice young man. We have a new relationship that is wonderful. He feels comfortable around us now and enjoys spending time with us. It's awesome! Another is having a whole lot more patience when I have the grand kids. Something I had been praying for. A new found special love for them.
The biggest is the fact that I feel love for all. I may start to get aggravated with someone but am able to rebuke it and change my attitude. I am able to talk to people much easier and be more compassionate. I take the time to listen now. I am able to be more supportive. I don't feel like my life is so chaotic and out of control any more.
It is so much easier to take in messages, to hear His voice, to receive what He is giving us, to love on others, and to feel a fresh new release, beginning, and freedom! Loving life, feeling almost euphoric, relieved to finally reach a new level in my spiritual life. What is nice is being able to make my husband happier. He's loving watching the change. Gone is the negativity, or if there is a negative subject to discuss it's not done in a manner that depresses up both.
I pray each of you that have not recieved this kind of freedom yet will find it soon. Those that have recieved will continue to hold onto that freedom and joy. There is nothing more rewarding than taking another step forward, another step closer to Him, to recieve that freedom from so many bindings. Break those bindings off and recieve His annointing! God's blessings, peace, joy, prosperity and strength to you all!
You may ask, when you know many are hurting, down, ill, just plain down on their luck can you be happy? Well, let me explain some events that have taken place. I love His perfect timing. It's all helped me to grow by leaps and bounds in Him. Yes, I do feel for those hurting etc. My heart is with them and they are in my prayers. I love people and care deeply for everyone. When someone hurts, I hurt. But I don't want to be the one to keep them from recieving their blessings.
Attending the Womens Weekly group that our Pastor's wife and daughter-in-law bring to us has been a rewarding time. Our Pastor giving his message from John Bevere's Extraordinary has been amazing. He's been on fire with the Lord's Word. Being around so many great people it has been a pure blessing. Thank You Jesus!
I've learned how to redirect my prayers. I've learned not to focus on the person and/or problem, but rather worship and give thanks for what He is doing or going to do with that situation. I was handing the problems to the Lord, but never thanked Him that He was or would take care of the problem until the problem maybe was taken care of.
I'll tell you what, since using the various names of the Lord depending on the situation and thanking Him for what He is going to do has changed my life so much. It's been overwhelming and beautiful at the same time.
The first signs of things changing in the past week was all of a sudden feeling a much deeper love for my husband. I didn't think it possible, but it's beautiful! The other is my oldest grand son asking questions, stating concerns and recieving the Lord. I've watched him transform into a very nice young man. We have a new relationship that is wonderful. He feels comfortable around us now and enjoys spending time with us. It's awesome! Another is having a whole lot more patience when I have the grand kids. Something I had been praying for. A new found special love for them.
The biggest is the fact that I feel love for all. I may start to get aggravated with someone but am able to rebuke it and change my attitude. I am able to talk to people much easier and be more compassionate. I take the time to listen now. I am able to be more supportive. I don't feel like my life is so chaotic and out of control any more.
It is so much easier to take in messages, to hear His voice, to receive what He is giving us, to love on others, and to feel a fresh new release, beginning, and freedom! Loving life, feeling almost euphoric, relieved to finally reach a new level in my spiritual life. What is nice is being able to make my husband happier. He's loving watching the change. Gone is the negativity, or if there is a negative subject to discuss it's not done in a manner that depresses up both.
I pray each of you that have not recieved this kind of freedom yet will find it soon. Those that have recieved will continue to hold onto that freedom and joy. There is nothing more rewarding than taking another step forward, another step closer to Him, to recieve that freedom from so many bindings. Break those bindings off and recieve His annointing! God's blessings, peace, joy, prosperity and strength to you all!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Wake Up Call #10
I'll start by saying, this is not #10 as there has been way more than that since coming back to the Lord, but that is the number that came to my head, so I'll go with it. ;) This month marks the 4th year since coming back to the Lord for our son and myself and for Hubs accepting Him! It's such a good feeling.
So what is it that came today? Today I went to my chiropractor appt. feeling drained. I had already decided that I needed a day to rest. I've been going full board for weeks now and am exhausted mentally and physically. So I figured, "okay, I can miss group today as I have the DVD and can stay caught up with it. Tomorrow I don't have a way to stay up with that group, so I need to attend that one.
I figured I would stop by the church to drop off the dish towels that I take home and wash and set up coffee like I usually do and then leave. I was going to make up a lame excuse, but instead told one of the leaders the truth that I needed some rest. While listening to myself explain why I wasn't going to attend, I thought of how silly my excuse sounded. So I stayed. I used a napkin to take notes on and was relieved I had stayed. I had asked for prayer and for my husbands business as well.
While Miss P. and others prayed over me, Ms. P said, "I am to tell you that you need to ask whether you should say yes or no before you give an answer instead of saying yes, as you may be taking away someone elses blessing the Father is trying to give them." Wow! That hit home. I had heard the week before of how we should make sure we don't steel others blessings.
This stayed with me on the way home I was contemplating those words, frustrated in a sense, as I knew there was a lot to do at home, this needed to be taken care of, that needed to be taken care of, I don't spend enough time in the Word, I play too often on FB as that is my way of relaxing; but because I do that, many things are left undone, why is it always such a vicious circle.
Then my mind changed to why do I have a hard time saying no? At first I knew it's because I have a heart that wants to help as much and as often as I can. It's a way to connect with others, to be around others, to feel fulfilled. Then it hit; wake up call #10; I was doing it for "acceptance." Say what?
Pretty much all my life I've been picked on, teased, called names, told I was worthless and wouldn't amount to much, and on and on the list goes. Plus some things that had happened at home as well. So instead of listening to the positive that would come my way, I'd dwell on all those hurtful things said to me. I hated who I was. I grew up and lived all these years trying to be who I thought I needed to be in order to be accepted.
People tell me that they think I'm a great person, sweet, caring, etc; but I couldn't accept what they were saying, as I felt it was all just a front. Now mind you, it's not with everyone that I feel that way now. I felt that they felt sorry for me and were just trying to be kind. I feel that people are talking about me and poking fun of me behind my back. Or when people would whisper, giggle and be looking at me or would roll their eyes, all those words came flooding into my mind, and I just kept sinking lower.
So I pour myself into doing as much as I can as often as I can to try and find that acceptance. I live to hear, "Great job! Thanks for your help, we really appreciate what you do," and on and on. How pathetic is that? I was looking for some magical "words" to come and take away all the hurt that has been built up in me for years.
I'm a very shy person and have a hard time feeling comfortable around authoritative people, such as Pastors. I know part of that comes from being taught respect for those above us. But then today I was reminded that they are no better than anyone else. They are just using their gift the good Lord gave them to do.
So now I'm at the point of trying to change my way of thinking. I'll be doing a lot of praying, asking for guidance, what my gift(s) really are, how should I be responding to requests to help, why does it feel so wrong for me to say no? Will I ever get rid of this restless, I'm no good, I won't amount to much, I have no talent, I dress weird, I'm fat, people are making fun of me, I don't want to talk to anyone as what comes out of my mouth is stupid. People have been telling me this for years.
So now I come in peace & know this will be a process to overcome. I thought I had this beat a while ago, but only to realize I was trying to ignore it. Instead I come asking for prayer to be lifted up and hear His voice lead me and to be rid of the negative voices that continue to attack my mind.
I bid you all good day. I pray that you all have confidence in yourselves. Never let the arrows/darts that others throw at you invade your mind. Cast all your cares to the Lord. For those that have been through this, let those words fall off your shoulders. Don't believe them. It's all a work of the enemy trying to weaken you. Don't let him win. Instead, gather your strength from the almighty power of God. The one who loves you unconditioanlly, "always."
For those of you who may judge and tease others; think about what you are saying and your actions, as often times, actions will speak louder than words. Words do cut like a kife and stay with a person. Be kind, loving and gentle. Put yourself in that other persons place and ask youreslf how you would feel if someone were doing that to you. Think before you act/speak and/or do. Blessings, peace, love and prosperity to each and everyone of you.
So what is it that came today? Today I went to my chiropractor appt. feeling drained. I had already decided that I needed a day to rest. I've been going full board for weeks now and am exhausted mentally and physically. So I figured, "okay, I can miss group today as I have the DVD and can stay caught up with it. Tomorrow I don't have a way to stay up with that group, so I need to attend that one.
I figured I would stop by the church to drop off the dish towels that I take home and wash and set up coffee like I usually do and then leave. I was going to make up a lame excuse, but instead told one of the leaders the truth that I needed some rest. While listening to myself explain why I wasn't going to attend, I thought of how silly my excuse sounded. So I stayed. I used a napkin to take notes on and was relieved I had stayed. I had asked for prayer and for my husbands business as well.
While Miss P. and others prayed over me, Ms. P said, "I am to tell you that you need to ask whether you should say yes or no before you give an answer instead of saying yes, as you may be taking away someone elses blessing the Father is trying to give them." Wow! That hit home. I had heard the week before of how we should make sure we don't steel others blessings.
This stayed with me on the way home I was contemplating those words, frustrated in a sense, as I knew there was a lot to do at home, this needed to be taken care of, that needed to be taken care of, I don't spend enough time in the Word, I play too often on FB as that is my way of relaxing; but because I do that, many things are left undone, why is it always such a vicious circle.
Then my mind changed to why do I have a hard time saying no? At first I knew it's because I have a heart that wants to help as much and as often as I can. It's a way to connect with others, to be around others, to feel fulfilled. Then it hit; wake up call #10; I was doing it for "acceptance." Say what?
Pretty much all my life I've been picked on, teased, called names, told I was worthless and wouldn't amount to much, and on and on the list goes. Plus some things that had happened at home as well. So instead of listening to the positive that would come my way, I'd dwell on all those hurtful things said to me. I hated who I was. I grew up and lived all these years trying to be who I thought I needed to be in order to be accepted.
People tell me that they think I'm a great person, sweet, caring, etc; but I couldn't accept what they were saying, as I felt it was all just a front. Now mind you, it's not with everyone that I feel that way now. I felt that they felt sorry for me and were just trying to be kind. I feel that people are talking about me and poking fun of me behind my back. Or when people would whisper, giggle and be looking at me or would roll their eyes, all those words came flooding into my mind, and I just kept sinking lower.
So I pour myself into doing as much as I can as often as I can to try and find that acceptance. I live to hear, "Great job! Thanks for your help, we really appreciate what you do," and on and on. How pathetic is that? I was looking for some magical "words" to come and take away all the hurt that has been built up in me for years.
I'm a very shy person and have a hard time feeling comfortable around authoritative people, such as Pastors. I know part of that comes from being taught respect for those above us. But then today I was reminded that they are no better than anyone else. They are just using their gift the good Lord gave them to do.
So now I'm at the point of trying to change my way of thinking. I'll be doing a lot of praying, asking for guidance, what my gift(s) really are, how should I be responding to requests to help, why does it feel so wrong for me to say no? Will I ever get rid of this restless, I'm no good, I won't amount to much, I have no talent, I dress weird, I'm fat, people are making fun of me, I don't want to talk to anyone as what comes out of my mouth is stupid. People have been telling me this for years.
So now I come in peace & know this will be a process to overcome. I thought I had this beat a while ago, but only to realize I was trying to ignore it. Instead I come asking for prayer to be lifted up and hear His voice lead me and to be rid of the negative voices that continue to attack my mind.
I bid you all good day. I pray that you all have confidence in yourselves. Never let the arrows/darts that others throw at you invade your mind. Cast all your cares to the Lord. For those that have been through this, let those words fall off your shoulders. Don't believe them. It's all a work of the enemy trying to weaken you. Don't let him win. Instead, gather your strength from the almighty power of God. The one who loves you unconditioanlly, "always."
For those of you who may judge and tease others; think about what you are saying and your actions, as often times, actions will speak louder than words. Words do cut like a kife and stay with a person. Be kind, loving and gentle. Put yourself in that other persons place and ask youreslf how you would feel if someone were doing that to you. Think before you act/speak and/or do. Blessings, peace, love and prosperity to each and everyone of you.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Seeing Things in a Different Light
Today while driving into Boise via the connector, I looked upon the valley in a whole new light. I've never seen it in this manner before. It took on a whole new, beautiful look. It is impossible to explain it exactly other than the Lord has been moving me in new directions and taking me to knew levels. I just drove in awe at this new found beauty of our surroundings. Thanking Him the whole time for this new light.
I made it to hubs appointment and then went to coffee with him. The mood had changed. Concern came over me for my husband. He seemed to have something troubling him and wouldn't open up, as he does often.
We parted, he headed for work, myself heading to pick up two of the grand kids; one of which is home sick. I was pondering over hubs, wondering what must be going on in his mind, when I all of a sudden focused on worshipping the Lord. On my way home was the usual crazy driving of some, slow from some, excessive speeds by others, and then there is that one that seems to want to join you in your lane. But this time it didn't bother me so much. What was going on?
I look in my review mirror after picking up the kids and see a young girl smiling from ear to ear, blowing a bubble from her gum and talking on the phone. At first I was thinking, great, watch her run into the back of me as she's not paying attention. Then all of a sudden the Lord took hold of me, and I was reminded not to judge.
Then I saw her as a beautiful girl, smiling, happy, childlike the way He wants us to be. I thought you know, we are all different in so many ways, but are all alike as well. We are all sons and daughters of the Lord our God. We all have a special place in this crazy world. Then I really got to looking at people as they drove by.
What did I see? People of all walks of life. Then I thought about how some were obviously not well off financially and some were well off. I thought back to a time when finances were bad. We didn't know if we were going to be able to keep our house, our vehicles needed work done on them, were we going to lose them too? How would we get to work. What about our kids, what would happen to them.
That's when I thought; we have so much to be thankful for. It doesn't matter what we have. It doesn't matter whether or not we are rich or poor. It doesn't matter what we wear. What matters is how we treat one another. What matters is what is in our heart. What matters is do we accept our Father and walk in the manner in which He desires for us to walk? Are we shining His light? Are we kind, gentle, loving, full of grace and mercy, thoughtful, joyfull, living with the Fruit of the Spirit in us?
Gratefulness, Thankfullness and Joy filled my heart. Gone was any worries. Gone was the comtemplations of, we need this or that, the worries about how to handle this mess, what should be said or done about this or that problem. I was reminded to hand all my cares to the Lord and let His light shine through. I had a heart and soul that understood and realized the value He was showing me and placed right in front of my face.
A new energy came about. No more frustration over things not getting done. Gone was the irritation over how busy life has become and how it seemed I needed to drop something of which I was involved in doing, but where and what to choose as I knew that I needed to be in the groups that I am to learn and come closer to Him. I knew that volunteering is where I'm suppose to be. I know the importance of watching the grandkids; then of course the house has to be cleaned...how was I going to do it all. Laughter filled my head. "Silly one, has He not always provided? Has He not always walked you through those difficult times? Has it not been good to get home and feel wonderfully exhausted knowing full well good things came from the day?
A small sacrifice for all that He offers us and gives us each and every day. He "always" provides; even in those times we feel it's not what we wanted. He knows what is best for us, what is "needed" at the right time.
Step back/sit back and really look at your surroundings. Look at those that are around you. See the uniqueness each one of us has to offer. Look at all the beauty He has provided us. What a wonderful world it really is. There may be some darkness in your life, but His light will shine through eventually when the time is right. For it is by His plans and His perfect timing that all comes together for the good of all. Take in a deep breath, smile, let your heart sing joyfully. Know that He is near. Never will He forsake you. Never will He leave you. Blessings to All!
I made it to hubs appointment and then went to coffee with him. The mood had changed. Concern came over me for my husband. He seemed to have something troubling him and wouldn't open up, as he does often.
We parted, he headed for work, myself heading to pick up two of the grand kids; one of which is home sick. I was pondering over hubs, wondering what must be going on in his mind, when I all of a sudden focused on worshipping the Lord. On my way home was the usual crazy driving of some, slow from some, excessive speeds by others, and then there is that one that seems to want to join you in your lane. But this time it didn't bother me so much. What was going on?
I look in my review mirror after picking up the kids and see a young girl smiling from ear to ear, blowing a bubble from her gum and talking on the phone. At first I was thinking, great, watch her run into the back of me as she's not paying attention. Then all of a sudden the Lord took hold of me, and I was reminded not to judge.
Then I saw her as a beautiful girl, smiling, happy, childlike the way He wants us to be. I thought you know, we are all different in so many ways, but are all alike as well. We are all sons and daughters of the Lord our God. We all have a special place in this crazy world. Then I really got to looking at people as they drove by.
What did I see? People of all walks of life. Then I thought about how some were obviously not well off financially and some were well off. I thought back to a time when finances were bad. We didn't know if we were going to be able to keep our house, our vehicles needed work done on them, were we going to lose them too? How would we get to work. What about our kids, what would happen to them.
That's when I thought; we have so much to be thankful for. It doesn't matter what we have. It doesn't matter whether or not we are rich or poor. It doesn't matter what we wear. What matters is how we treat one another. What matters is what is in our heart. What matters is do we accept our Father and walk in the manner in which He desires for us to walk? Are we shining His light? Are we kind, gentle, loving, full of grace and mercy, thoughtful, joyfull, living with the Fruit of the Spirit in us?
Gratefulness, Thankfullness and Joy filled my heart. Gone was any worries. Gone was the comtemplations of, we need this or that, the worries about how to handle this mess, what should be said or done about this or that problem. I was reminded to hand all my cares to the Lord and let His light shine through. I had a heart and soul that understood and realized the value He was showing me and placed right in front of my face.
A new energy came about. No more frustration over things not getting done. Gone was the irritation over how busy life has become and how it seemed I needed to drop something of which I was involved in doing, but where and what to choose as I knew that I needed to be in the groups that I am to learn and come closer to Him. I knew that volunteering is where I'm suppose to be. I know the importance of watching the grandkids; then of course the house has to be cleaned...how was I going to do it all. Laughter filled my head. "Silly one, has He not always provided? Has He not always walked you through those difficult times? Has it not been good to get home and feel wonderfully exhausted knowing full well good things came from the day?
A small sacrifice for all that He offers us and gives us each and every day. He "always" provides; even in those times we feel it's not what we wanted. He knows what is best for us, what is "needed" at the right time.
Step back/sit back and really look at your surroundings. Look at those that are around you. See the uniqueness each one of us has to offer. Look at all the beauty He has provided us. What a wonderful world it really is. There may be some darkness in your life, but His light will shine through eventually when the time is right. For it is by His plans and His perfect timing that all comes together for the good of all. Take in a deep breath, smile, let your heart sing joyfully. Know that He is near. Never will He forsake you. Never will He leave you. Blessings to All!
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