Dreams

I’m doing Kelly Minter’s study on Nehemiah right now. I’m only in the second week and have been so convicted already. At the beginning of this week’s lesson, Kelly says something like, “God is a jealous God-He does not want to share you with your American Dream.”

Well that just about did me in. I often fool myself into thinking that I’m not one of those women who just wants her own little “American Dream”…but I am…and I do. I want the house to decorate and the babies to raise and the cushy little life that I think would be easier.

I know in my head that it won’t necessarily be easier, and I know in my head that life is about so much more than that-but what do I desire in my heart?

I’ve been wanting to do Max Lucado’s study, “Outlive Your Life” for over a year now….but avoid it like the plague because I’m terrified that I’ll fail  to put in place the changes I’m convicted to make.

In the grand scheme of things, I do want so much more than any “American Dream” I can build for myself and my family. I want God’s dream for my life and family. I want to live for Him and not for myself. I want to make a difference in the lives of people that will “outlive my life.” I want to store up treasures in Heaven and not on earth (Mt 6:20).

Despite what I want in the grand scheme of things, it’s difficult for me to live that large in my day-to-day. So, like Paul says, I’ll continue to work out my salvation (Philippians 2:12)…and with God’s grace and mercy, abandon my own American Dream and trust in His faithfulness to lead me where He wants me to follow.

Be blessed,

Jill

What’s New?

I awoke to a refreshingly cool crisp morning and thought “How appropriate.” September approaches; a new month that ushers in a new season. School days are beginning for many; new teachers, new friends, new clothes, new challenges. Speeches and ads prepare the way for an election that looms before us; a new term or a new president? Garden centers display the customary mums; new plantings to take the place of the colors of summer’s glory.

For the most part we love “new”. Newness is beauty-full! It’s exciting, invigorating and motivating. The trouble with “new” is that by its very nature it is swiftly gone.

However we get a new start every day; every moment even. God’s mercies and compassion are new every morning, and every moment that we communicate our need to Him.

I recently brought to the Lord some old recollections that surfaced that I honestly didn’t remember if I had ever acknowledged to him with a repentant heart. I immediately experienced a glorious impression of Holy Spirit’s presence. I honestly felt renewed in my thinking, my attitude, and my emotions. I even felt different physically; lighter, dreamier, emptier yet also fuller all at the same time. It was a “new” that I didn’t want to fade away.

The Word of God says to put off the old and put on the new.

Ephesians 4:22-24
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

I got a perspective on this concept in the natural just over the past couple of days. I went school shopping with two of my granddaughters for a few hours. With little coaxing they were both able to take off and try on a number of pants, tops and shoes in record time so that they could choose the “new” that they desired.

I also reviewed my day yesterday and realized that in the span of 15 hours I went from bed clothes to walking clothes, then my shower robe, followed by donning my professional suit attire for an interview. After a successful and hopeful interview I too went shopping and carried 11 clearance items into the dressing room for some quick change exercise. (I only bought 2 items.) When I got home I immediately changed into my comfies to cook dinner, but then accepted an invitation to a meeting where my comfies needed to be replaced by decent casuals.

As females we sure know how to put off old things and put on new. But we also sometimes spend inordinate amounts of time just putting on the old again.

However “new” looks Beauty-full on you. The truth is “new” looks good on everyone. Let someone know today about God’s “new” mercies and compassion.

Lamentations 3:22-24

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.  They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come.

Gratefully HIS,

Jan

Goodbyes

Today we said a somewhat bittersweet goodbye to one of the kids who had been with me since Oct 2011.  It's bittersweet because the poor girl has been moved around countless times in her short life, and it just isn't fair.  It's not fair that her family can't take care of her. It's not fair that she hasn't gotten the she needs help with the emotional issues that she has. It's not fair that the rest of her siblings are together, and she's alone. It's not fair that once I realize I can't help someone, it becomes too hard to even try.

So, we packed her up, and I drove her to her new house almost an hour away from the life she's had for the past 10 months. Almost an hour away from her parents, who live down the street from me. Almost an hour away from the few friends she made here. Almost an hour away from a particular 15 year old boy she's had a crush on since Christmas ( I think because of his Beiber-like hair).  But it's also an hour away from a terrible teacher, and the kids who picked on her. It's an hour away from her parents, and maybe the distance will help with the inevitable closure that's coming. It's an hour away from Heather, who has more toys than her. It's an hour away from the other little girl in my house, who is going home to her mom soon. It's an hour away from me, who can't help her anymore.

I spent my return hour praying for her, and her new 'family', that she would feel welcomed, and loved. That these next people will be better than I at helping her through the next phase in her life, which will be a tough one. That her new school will accept her, and that her desk will be next to a girl who loves Justin Beiber as much as she does, but also loves math. I also prayed that her sticky fingers would un-stick, and that she would hold off on the tantrum-throwing for a bit. I prayed that God would remind her of the good things we shared, and flush the bad times right out of her mind.

Will you pray with me?  As much as she drove me crazy, she's lost in so many ways...

Brooke

Afraid No More

Most of my life I was afraid. I was afraid of "monsters under the bed", thunder and  lightening, spiders, heights, going too fast and being alone. But most of all I was afraid of my future.

I wanted to know everything that was going to happen so I could be prepared, so I could have a plan. I needed to be in control so that I could make sure nothing bad happened. I fretted, worried, planned every step of my life and carried fear in my heart.

Well, the problem was and is that "I" can not prevent bad things from happening in my life.  Bad things did happen and unfortunately they will happen in the future as well. It is just a part of life here on earth.

Trust God from the bottom of your heart;don't try to figure out everything on your own.

Proverbs 3:5 The Message

When I became a Christian I put my trust in God, the Creator of the Universe and HE took my fear away.

God alone knows everything about me and about my life. HE already knows everything that is going to happen in my life and HE will be right there for me! God is on our side  (Romans 8:31b) .

What a deep sigh of relief I experienced when I truly grasped that God is on my side and that HE can work together for good any situation (Romans 8:28)

Today I still don't like thunder and lightening, spiders, heights or going too fast but I did outgrow the fear of "monsters under my bed". However, I can say that am not afraid to be alone because I know that HE is always with me.

And I am not afraid of my future because I TRUST HIM. I am in a relationship with GOD and I listen to HIS direction for my life in prayer and in studying HIS Word. HE guides me and comforts me and HE let's me know if i am heading down the wrong path. 

I can not control the future or any heartaches or trials that it may bring my way but I know that I will not face them alone and unequipped.

I don't need to be afraid about what tomorrow holds because I know that God loves me.

" I am convinced that nothing-nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic,today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable-absolutely nothing can get between us and God's love because of the  way that Jesus our Master has embraced us."  (Romans 8:39The Message)

Jesus has rescued, redeemed, restored my life and HE remains loving me with HIS different kind of Love. And HE is waiting there for you!

Gratefully HIS,
ruthann

A Different Kind of Love

Good Monday Morning Ladies. 

Take a few minutes to listen to the words to this song. And if you are grateful that Jesus found you and that HE loves you with a different kind of love, SING OUT LOUD AND PRAISE HIM!!!

ruthann

Priorities

This summer has been very busy for me. My sister moved home from college, my other sister is getting married, my other sister is moving off to college, my cousin is having a baby, a close family member is struggling with health issues, I continued to attend Graduate school while working full time, and so much more.

I’ve always been a busy person- I thrive with a full schedule because a lot of downtime leaves me bored and wanderlusty (which I think I just made up). Even though I’m very organized and enjoy a busy schedule, I’ve never been good at prioritizing-because in the moment, one thing seems just as important at another.

I value time spent with my husband. I value time spent with my sisters. I value the time I have to visit with my parents and in-laws. I value the time I spend continuing my education. I value time I spend at church. I value the time I spend with God each day…..

…And by each day, I mean when I’m not too tired from valuing my time too much in other places…

I’ve always struggled with setting apart time each day to spend with the Lord before all my other “stuff” begins; but oh how important it is. One of my problems is that I tend to think like this: “well as soon as _____ is over, I’ll have more time to be consistent with my devotional time.” That never works. Especially if you’re like me and always have stuff going on.

We are on borrowed time here on this earth. We are a vapor that disappears in the blink of an eye. We’re not promised tomorrow.  And one day, when my tomorrow never comes, I better be sure that I’ve spent enough time with God-who I’ll be spending eternity with.

When one thing ends, another always begins. Which is why it’s so important to make daily time with God a priority. A priority that I will be working on over the next couple of weeks and months.  Feel free to hold me accountable!....And if you need to work on the same priority, I’m happy to hold you accountable J

Have a great weekend,

Jill

With Child-Like Delight

I had the great joy of observing a toddler recently. The whole scenario brought to mind what our childlike relationship with God should be like. I share it with you, punctuated with scripture verses to ponder.

I watched as this precious little guy stood motionless and mesmerized by the whimsical jingle of an approaching ice cream truck. His little feet were planted firmly and his sturdy little legs didn’t move a muscle for several minutes, so enthralled was he by the music it seemed. I truly wondered what held him in place for so long. (I would have taken off running.)

Zephaniah 3:17

The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.

When he finally joined other kids and accompanying adults on their way to the truck I lost sight of him. When he came into my view again amidst a crowd of active treat-seekers milling and crowding the single service window of the truck I noticed him again, stock-still, his little neck craned back at a painful looking angle, his head moving left and right, then left again to gaze at the colorful pictures of frozen delights splashed all over the side of the truck.

Psalm 37:4

Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.

He didn’t push forward or look to his caregiver for help or guidance or assurance. His sole purpose appeared to be to take in the totality all the pleasures that this four-wheeled wonder held. When it appeared he had made his choice, he still did not move forward, but instead he sought the face of the truck attendant and just stared at her, as if by merely gazing at her he could capture her attention.

Psalm 27:8
My heart says of you, “Seek his face!” Your face, LORD, I will seek.

And capture it he did! Their eyes locked. Her smile was nearly as captivating as his was. No words were spoken. It was as if in that moment only those two people were in existence; the giver and the receiver. The little guy just pointed to the picture of his choice and licked his little lips. She craned around the truck window to follow the direction of his finger, then looking back at him she too pointed to his selection and they both just nodded at each other.

Psalm 21:2

You have given him his heart’s desire, and You have not withheld the request of his lips.

As she retreated to get his chosen pleasure he slowly stepped forward, reaching up with both hands. She returned and gently placed it into his outstretched little mitts.

Psalm 16:11

You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.

I lost sight of him again in the array of others and disappointedly glanced away. When next I saw him he was happily sauntering back with his family, decorated well by the melting drips of ice cream, all down his chin, and neck and belly.

Psalm 133:2

It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down upon the collar of his robes.

May we delight in our God as a little child delights in what he longs for.

Mark 12:30
Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.

Gratefully HIS,

Jan

Live Full Lives

This summer we, the bloggers at LBF, have been to the ocean,the desert, the mountains,and the valley.  We have shared our stories from our normal daily lives and our uncommon vacation days. We have shared some mountaintop experiences and some down in the pit days.

But, through all the places that our lives have taken us there is one common place all of our feet have tread.  God's Love.

..."that with your feet planted firmly on love, you'll be able to take in with all followers of Jesus the extravagant dimensions of Christ's love. Reach out and experience the breadth! Test its length! Plumb the depths! Rise to the heights! Live full lives, full in the fullness of God." Ephesians 3:17b-19

Being a part of this blogging team for nearly a year now has been a wonderful experience. It has helped me to look even harder for God in my every day. It has been a discipline of writing and a new discovery of the greatness of HIS of love.

Gods Word tell us that " you'll be able to take in with all followers of Jesus the extravagant dimensions of Christ's love" . With ALL the followers. Through the sharing of life with my fellow bloggers and sisters in Christ I have been able to more fully experience Gods love.

These beauty-fill ladies have shared their emotions as they have reached out to touch the breadth of HIS love. They have been honest in their quest to understand the length of Gods love. We all have shared the failures and celebrated the triumphs and in ALL of it we have been reminded of God great Love.

There is no place that  we can go in our hearts or in our minds, in our words or with our actions that Gods Love is not there with us. HIS Love has extravagant dimensions that are beyond anything we can fathom.

I am so glad that I have my LBF blogger sisters to remind me that no matter where I go HIS Love is there with me. My life has been lived more fully in the knowledge of Gods extravagant love because they take the risk of living transparently for HIS Glory.

Surround yourself with friends that will jump out of their comfort zones to increase your knowledge of HIS Love and allow you to live more beauty-full lives.

Humbly,
ruthann



.

Monday Mornings

I am not a morning person. Or a Monday person.

This weekend I was away at The Cape and it was a nice break form "the usual." I found myself even more opposed to getting out of bed for the start of my work week today.

But, I'm thankful to be working and to have a paycheck. I'm thankful that, unlike so many, I have a job that I love. And, despite my lack of Monday morning enthusiasm, I have to choose to have a good attitude about today.

So, happy Monday everyone, be thankful for whatever your day brings.

Jill

Uniform

Have you ever noticed how the events that you rehearse in your mind frequently never come to pass even remotely the way you pictured them? I think we all do this. Or is it just me?

It certainly makes me realize that my thoughts, often motivated by my emotions, cause my will to take over and waste time on the foolishness of undetermined perceptions. Even more purposeless is when I change the mock scenario at a whim.

This morning as I was reviewing my week thus far with the Lord, I realized in retrospect that the events that had transpired that were good had not come from my thinking, but from the Hand of God.

James 1:17 says it this way:
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

The workings of our soul – our mind, will and emotions – can be pretty presumptuous and fickle. So in my prayer time today I found myself asking God to draft my soul, with the word “draft” meaning “take my soul (mind, will, emotions) over into His army, even if against my will”. My hope and desire is that my mind, will and emotions will become Uniform with His; standardized, consistent, unvarying.

I loved Ruthann’s post this week, Fall 2012 Beauty Tip because it spoke of putting on the best garment which is “Love”.

Well I guess because my soulish realm has seemed a bit undisciplined lately, along with “Love” I think I need to put on a clean uniform for my soul.

As an active reserve member in God’s army I’m thinking I need a refresher in basic training at times. (You know, like an Army reservist goes off for active duty training weekends.)

I am so glad my Commanding Officer portrays Himself as a Shepherd.

Psalm 23:3 says it this way:
He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.

I need to try my uniform on regularly, see how it fits, and submit to alterations if needed. When it fits well, there is something strikingly Beauty-Full about a crisp and polished army uniform.

Gratefully HIS,

Jan

Lessons from the Valley

So, last week I was on vacation, in a valley.  One day, I paid $17 dollars to walk through a gorge, cause my imagination had me convinced that if I walked alone on any of the billion free trails that were around, I'd get lost, it would get dark, and I'd get eaten by a bear. Or a spider.

I also mentioned last week that being situated in a valley was an appropriate projection of life right now.  Valleys are different for all of us.  They can be due to loss.  To sin; our own or someone else's. They can be due to circumstances. They can be due to illness. They can be due to just plain old life.

While I was down in the $17 gorge, I noticed some things about valleys.  I think they apply to both the physical valley I was in, and all the other valleys we might find ourselves in.

It's pretty easy to get into the valley. The walk is quick, and while a few roots and rocks and stumbles might get in your way, for the most part, its a easy road. Sometimes it's even a pleasant road. 

Valleys are dark. There's not a ton of light, and it can be hard to see what's what.  You can see light trying to get in, but it can't quite permeate everything that's blocking it.

 The way out of a valley is a bit more complicated. From a little higher up, more light gets in. It doesn't have as far to travel, and things look a brighter. You notice the differences in things that all seemed like one big dark mess from at the bottom. There are still dark places, places where no light makes hits. Sometimes you think you're headed up, only to be on a path that leads you around and back down, right to where you started. I took more than one of these sneaky paths on my walk, and I have in life as well.

 

When you look up in a valley, you can see all the light that's not able to get through. But you have to look up to see it. When you do, sometimes you can seethe difference between the dark that you're in, and the light that trying to break through. Sometimes it makes you hopeful. Sometimes it makes you want to go back down, cause as we said before, that way is easier. 

When you finally make your way out of the valley, you can see all the light that was trying to make its way down. You can see that the light touches the tops of everything that has it's roots in the valley.

I'm not saying that God condones or approves or likes the things in our valleys.  I'm saying that even in our valleys, He never leaves us. If we look up, make our way up, He'll be there. And He loves us.

Brooke

Fall 2012 Beauty Tip

My mailbox is stuffed with over-sized catalogs. My inbox is engorged with advertisements for the new "must-have" clothes. Fall is almost upon us and the world is obsessed with what to wear this Fall of 2012.

I am not obsessed but I have sneaked a peek at what's "in" this Fall. I admit it.  I love the classic tweeds, textured knits, the rich earthy  hues of the season. I even like the trendy bright denims.   But don't get me started on the "skinny jean" craze (remember someone needs to remind me to  get in shape this year).

 I know I will hit the stores and pick up a new outfit, a bulky sweater or a pair of boots to freshen up the basics I already have in my wardrobe. I will pack up my little cotton skirts and flip flops and tees and replace them with heavier fabric garments. I will try on my long jeans and button-down shirts. I will be refreshed and at times frustrated by the process of shopping and changing over my closet.

However,as I survey my wardrobe I don't want to forget the most important basic I can possess...love!

And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It's your basic, all purpose garment. Never be without it.       Colossians 3:14 The Message

 During my quiet time with God last week HE impressed on me that my knowledge of love is still very shallow. I didn't get this impression in a condemning way but rather in a prompting that HE has SO MUCH MORE to show me about love.

   God is Love.  1 John 4:17 The Message

 The Word  became flesh and blood and moved into the neighborhood. John 1:14 The Message

So instead of pouring over fashion magazines to find the right garment  this Fall I am going to dig deeper than ever before into the life of Jesus. 

Jesus is LOVE. Jesus lived out on earth what HE is...Love!! That's the style I want to dress in so here I go shopping in the Word of God for a new garment of love. 

 Seeking HIS Beauty,

ruthann

A Beauty Full Monday to ya

Oh to give the glory where it is due to God alone. I pray this Monday that you are blessed by this young girl's offering to God.

Now THIS  is living Beauty- Full!!!

http://youtu.be/P_XjW_jPIZI


Blessings,
ruthann

Just In Time

I've had a pretty hard week. A week where sad and stressed and scared doesn't even seem to cut it. Bad news just seems to keep on coming for this one situation and hope can be hard to hold on to. I'm at that point where when I start to pray about the situation, no words come out, only tears.

I was in a particularly sad state when I was driving home from work today and a representative from my old university called and said, "Hi, I'm calling for Jillian. This is the alumni prayer center with Liberty and I'm just wondering if there's anything I can pray for you or your family for today."

What I heard, was the voice of God saying , "Jillian, I have not left you. I will never leave or forsake you. I hear your prayers, and regardless of what happens, I hear you always, and I love you. Always"

That call came just in time.That young lady's prayer for me and this situation came just in time.

I can tell you first hand, that when hope seems lost, and you feel like no one can hear your pain, God can. And He will hear us always. And He will love us always. And that's enough for me

Have a blessed weekend.
Jill

Check-Up

I need to get my car inspected this month. My car is 2 years old, (newest car I’ve ever had!) It’s in good shape and should pass; no problem. But I still need to keep her gassed and oiled and washed when she needs it, not just at inspection time.

I’ve been practicing a new eating plan and go weekly for encouragement and accountability. If I don’t work the plan, I am not pleased with the results. This past week it was time to get my annual physical and lab work and the week before that I had to get a routine bone density test. When everything came back fine, I was so grateful. I passed inspection, with better grades than before because I have been working on maintaining a healthier lifestyle, with the help of some dear friends.

My washing machine has been doing funny things lately, like requiring me nearly every time to give the spin cycle a jumpstart. Then recently I noticed some water under the washer after the cycle was finished. Now I could get the washer inspected too, maybe even repaired I suppose, but that trusty old machine is 27 years old and pretty worn out, so I have decided it is going to “washing machine paradise” and will soon be replaced with a new and improved model.

It did get me thinking about how periodic check-ups are important. They give us motivation to practice better habits. They also give us a status update; a reason to rejoice if all is well, or to make improvements if they’re needed. On occasion they let us know that replacement with something better might be best.

I take a lot of things for granted in my daily life. Like the certainty that my car will start each day when I turn the key. Or the assurance that my clothes will get clean either when I help turn the tub or when I make a decision to get a new one. Even my physical health is something I don’t give a lot of thought to, thank you, God.

But the day-to-day safeguards and disciplines that have become habits are what help me stay on track, not the intermittent assessments.

My walk with God needs both; the day-by-day safeguards and habits plus some regular self-   assessment and checking in with others.

Hebrews 12:11 states:

“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”

James 1:3 says it this way:
 ^“because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

 

Hebrews 10:24 declares:
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”

 

We so need each other. And when we keep on keeping on, our Father is pleased with us. He is never looking to trade us in for a new model. His plan is to refine us into a deeper beauty and purpose than ever.

 

To all you Beauty-Full ladies who are helping others with their day-to-day upkeep of faith, sometimes even reaching down and giving someone’s proverbial tub a helping spin to get moving again, bless you. And for any who are involved in their own or a sister’s sporadic faith- walk appraisals, keep up the good work. When the Master Physician, Mechanic, Personal Trainer, etc. is the Lord, you’re in for the best Check-Up.

 

Gratefully HIS,

 

Jan

In the Valley

So, I took a vacation up to the mountains, and I find myself literally situated in a valley.  It's more appropriate than I can even explain.  I have to drive 20 miles for cell service, and anything else I might need. Like toilet paper. That was fun.

I'm surrounded by trees, which have nothing to do but produce oxygen and blow in the breeze.  They don't wonder about their purpose, they just are.

The deer wander around, going where ever they please.  They don't wonder if they are welcome, or if anyone wants them here.  They just show up.

The river just flows, without questioning or caring whether or not it's life sustaining value is noticed or appreciated.

I'm jealous.  Jealous that I don't have just one single purpose, and that I can't do it without feelings and a million other things getting in my way.   And overwhelmed.  Overwhelmed by the responsibilities that we have. The ones we take on because we have no choice.  The ones that we take on because we need the cash. The ones we take on because our personalities won't let us say no. The ones that we take on because no one else will. 

That's pretty much it. It's all I've got. I'm here for another few days. Hopefully long enough to get over myself, and come to grips with the fact that I'm not a tree, or a deer, or a river. To focus on all the blessings that come with responsibility.

Brooke

Sing

And sing, sing your hearts out to God!  Colossians 3:17b The Message

The blessings of the past week were many. My family and I went on our annual summer vacation to Soulfest, a 4-day Christian Music Festival, on Gunstock Mountain in New Hampshire.

Although it was sizzling hot with no shade in sight we had a great time (I did grumble a bit about the heat and the uphill walking). Four days, five stages of Christian music playing 12 hours a day in the company of 10,000 brothers and sisters n Christ, how can that be bad?

Every year I look forward to going, although I  always grumble about the heat AND the walking (remind me to get in shape this year PLEASE!). What I look forward to is an encounter with God. In past years I have been struck face down with awe in His Presence. I have been educated and convicted in areas of social justice. HE has spoken to my heart through songs, prayer and quiet time before HIM.

So this year I went with the same expectation as in past years. By the third day I was beginning to feel frustrated. I had heard countless bands play, great bands with music that I sang along to and had fun but still no encounter with God.

Like the verse above I wanted to sing my heart out to God but all I was doing was singing out loud about God. On the fourth day I was beginning to think I would come home filled with a lot of good music and tired from a week of camping.

Then at 4 o'clock on Saturday I stood in the dirt before the big stage with the sun beating down on me and began to worship with Jason Upton. In the midst of the same crowds and activity that I had been in for the past few days I was transported to the Presence of God and all else faded away.

I sang my heart out TO God and HE whispered into my heart and soul HIS Words of love and mercy. There is nothing as satisfying then being in the Presence of God and hearing HIS Voice speak to your heart. This is where we become filled with HIS Beauty.  The more HE whispered the more I sang.

I shouldn't have needed Jason Upton to lead me to God in worship but I did. For some reason I could not break free from the distractions in me and around me until Jason's unrestrained worship ushered me there.

I thank God for our ministers of worship that lead us into this special place of God's Presence.

I need them.

You need them.

 Although we all need to cultivate the discipline of worship for ourselves, by ourselves, there will be times that we need some help to move from just singing to singing our hearts out to God.

Sing my beauty-full friends, sing your hearts out to God,
ruthann

Sword of the Spirit

Happy Monday all!

My church is doing a series on the Bible. This Sunday, we talked about the war that's going on. Not in Afghanistan. Not in Iraq. Not in popular culture. But the same spiritual war I wrote about here.

Satan knows just how to temp us. He's been watching just which sins trip us up.

Even Christ was tempted (Matthew 4:1-11). And how did He handle it...."It  is written..." He quoted scripture right back at Satan.

I want to know my Bible like that.

My pastor talked about how when the Bible says that the Bible is the "sword of the Spirit" (Ephesians 6:17) the actual word in the original language is more like "dagger" than sword. Responding with truths from scripture is like taking deathly blows at Satan. It doesn't give temptation a stand.

I will know my Bible like that. Join me. Don't give temptation and sin a chance.

Have a wonderful week!
Jill

"Suddenly"

A few weeks ago, a guest pastor at my church spoke about when “suddenly” happened in our lives. How do we react when “suddenly” happens?

He talked about how, often, when “suddenly” happens, we respond with our natural reactions, our instinctive nature. We freeze with fear, or run for safety. Even when we’ve been walking with the Lord for years, we may trip up.

He made the point that when “suddenly” is happening in our lives, we may fail to pull out the tools we have in Christ. The tools we’ve known since Sunday School as little kids. The tools that teach that we can do all things in Christ our strength (Philippians 4:13), that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him (Romans 8:28), that He who began a good work is faithful to complete it (Philippians 1:6), that we should not be anxious about anything, but be in prayer (Philippians 4:6), that our light an momentary troubles are nothing compared to an eternal glory (2 Corinthians 4:17)...you get the picture

I’m sure it was no coincidence that I heard that message a few weeks ago because last week, “suddenly” happened for me. I was thankful that God had just reminded me about the tools I have in Christ. I was thankful that the Holy Spirit had prepared me to not react with fear and anxiety like I normally would have.

I was encouraged that my “instinctive nature” was to stand firm in the promise that “the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart through all generations (Psalm 32:11). To know that “The eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love, to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine (Psalm 32:18-190.

When “suddenly” happened, I could say that “We wait in hope for the Lord; He is our help and shield. In Him our hearts rejoice for we trust in His holy name. May Your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in You (Psalm 32:20-22).

I hope that we’re rehearsing for “suddenly” in our everyday walk. I hope we’re living in the Spirit so that THAT becomes our instinctive nature. I pray that we don’t freeze in fear or run for safety when “suddenly” happens, but trust and hop in God for refuge and strength.

In Christ,

Jill

Blessed Acquaintance

I recently stopped in to visit an 88 year old woman who I’ve known in a casual but meaningful way for over 35 years. Our first meeting was when we both took our first college class together. I was a young mom, a saddened new divorcee, looking for a new start. She was a saddened new widow, also looking for a new start. What an encouragement she was to me back then. Not for anything in particular that she said. But mostly for the enthusiasm that radiated from her about anything she spoke about and how special she made those around her feel.

After that term we both continued our studies, at totally different paces and places. But living in the same town we would occasionally see one another and it was always like having an exciting though brief class reunion. Her zest for life was contagious. Her practicality was refreshing. Her honesty was both comforting and motivating. Running into her was always like unwrapping a little gift box filled with unexpected treats. As the years went by we discovered that although from different denominations, we shared a deep faith in the same Lord.

I remember never thinking about how old she might be until many years into our relationship; six years ago to be exact. On that occasion I saw her when I was out with my grandkids. She was serving as an energetic volunteer at a public location geared toward family fun. I remember asking her how old she was and being rather astounded that she was in her 80’s. We talked of how she had earned her college degree a little at a time, simply for the joy of learning and being with others. I found myself bragging on her to my grandkids, (instead of the customary reverse of that). I wanted my grandkids to recognize the enormous devotion to life that this woman had.

It was later on that day that I realized I was the age that she had been when I first met her. It made me ponder the great worth her acquaintance had given to me, which she had shared so naturally, humbly, and with little awareness. I had benefitted from her years and I wanted to make that difference for others.

In subsequent times of running into her I’ve made it a point to tell her how much she has inspired and encouraged me over the years during our casual encounters. She has always quickly brushed off any accolades and then has shared with me that our few-and-far-between moments together have brought her a special joy too. Our hugs have taken on more warmth and vulnerability. Our sharing has become more personal at times. But mostly we have just given each other little pieces of being cherished.

This most recent visit to her was brief and impromptu. She was ill and not feeling up to chatting. But the affection I have for her welled up and overflowed in gratitude to God, prayers for her comfort, and the simple holding of her hand.

I have learned much from this simple relationship. Oh, that my plain acts of living would be an encouragement to those around me, at all the ages and stages of my life, whether I know it or not. Perhaps the dearest ways for Jesus to bless others is when we don’t know we’re doing it.

Gratefully HIS,

Jan 

Renovation and Change

Change is tough. It comes in different forms. There's change that we want to make. There's change that is forced upon us by circumstances outside our control. There's change that we know we need, but don't want. It's all tough.

A few years ago, my dad and I bought a house.  It was a cheap house, in really bad condition. Like, unlivable-couldn't-get-a-certificate-of-occupancy condition. We had been looking for a while, and finally found a house that we thought we could work with, and one that I thought I could live in. The stipulation was that I had to live in it for a long time, which as I mentioned in my last post- has been a area of.... difficulty for me :)

So, we found a house, battled with the bank, won, and started working. To say that we were unprepared for what this house needed would be an understatement. By the end, we had torn out all the walls, ceilings, floors in every room except one. We replaced a lot of the original framing, insulated the whole place, put up walls.  We added an attic in one room. We moved the kitchen from it's original location. We primed and painted. We bought cabinets and appliances. We waited for delivery. We spent a good amount of time staring at each other, saying, "How do we do this? What if we... nope... not gonna work...".  The lot needed new electrical service, and the whole house needed to be rewired. While we didn't do this part ourselves, it still ended up being one of the more stressful parts of the project.

part of my kitchen "before"

during renovations

after

We started work in July of 09, with intentions of being done by October 1st. We quickly figured out that was never gonna happen. From July of 09 to March of 10, my dad and I were at that house every single Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. There were countless other people there with us some days, and sometimes they were there when we weren't, simply because they were available.

bedroom upstairs during renovation

same bedroom, with some new walls

Ruthann's husband Eric did custom trim for the whole house.

Jane and Harry painted with me more times than I can count, and Jane was present for most of my "let's go to home depot and look at house stuff" trips.

Jane's brother-in-law did all the plumbing. 

My mom Marcia sent dinner for us, and cleaned up after us, and did all the weird stuff that no one else wanted to do.

My dad's youth group spent 2 full Saturday's working with us in exchange for pizza alone.

Troy and Dad spent a lot of time on built in bookcases for me.

bonus room "before"

what we found when we took that paneling down

"after" the bookcases dad and troy built

My foster brother, Robert, gave up more time than can be expected of a 17 year old, and while I wanted to hit him with my hammer at least 23 times every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, his help was pretty invaluable.

There were a ton of people who called and said, "Hey, I've got a few spare hours today- anything I can help out with at the house?"  Wasn't hard to find stuff!!

Here's the thing- the house needed to change. That change took work. A lot of work. More work than we originally thought.  We had to want to change the house, and we had to commit to making it happen. Even the days when we didn't want to.

I'm always surprised when I realize that internal change also takes work. I couldn't just say, "House, I want you to change", and then sit back and wait for it to happen. It took effort.

It's the same with all the other types of change in our lives.

We need to change our habits, our thinking, our motives, our hearts. If we want to see results, change, we have to work at it. Even on the days we don't want to. Even on the days we don't think we can.

Sometimes, all we have to do is accept change that's been set upon us. But even that still takes effort. Even that sometimes still hurts. Even that doesn't just happen.


Daniel 2:21 says about God, "He changes times and seasons...".  God can change things for us. Sometimes He brings good things. Sometimes He takes away bad things. But beyond that, He can help us through each season that comes. But He can't make the effort for us.


The best thing about change is that God doesn't. Malachi 3:6 says "I the Lord, do not change". The Psalms are full of verses they tell us God is who He is, and He will always be the same. When our circumstances change, God doesn't. When we change, God doesn't. If there's one thing we can count on to always be the same, it's Him. And that should make any type of change we face easier. More hopeful. A little bit joyful.

My heart, my life, my self won't change without effort. I'm pretty glad that I have an unchanging God to walk beside me through change. ( And that it doesn't cost as much money as changing my house did!)

I'm taking a little vacation next week- spending the week in New Hampshire, with myself, and apparently some wildlife that has been frequenting the yard. I'm not sure if I'll have internet access, or cell phone service, or TV- might be a good time to think about doing some changing :)


Brooke