Listen to Me….

The Hebrew people had it rough. It was hot, the work they were forced to do was hard and just got harder after Moses showed up. Some rescuer he was!

God had spelled it out for them. I AM the Lord. I will bring you out. I will free you. I will redeem you. I will take you as my own, I will be your God. I will bring you to the land I promised. I will give it to you. Promise after promise after promise… (taken from Exodus 6:6-8 NIV)

“Moses reported this to the Israelites, but they did not listen to him because of their discouragement and harsh labor.” (Exodus 6:9 NIV)

I know they were tired out. Work, work, work. Day after day. Wonderful promises are hard to focus on when you are worn out.

I don’t want to be a tired Israelite.

I want to listen even though I am discouraged and tired.

Where is that cloud....?

I've studied the life of Moses before.  But God always has perfect timing and I find myself learning from Ole' Mose again right now. After having left the palace and found rejection from his own people, Moses lived with yet another foreign people.  He married, had children, got a job shepherding, and then came up on that flaming bush that wouldn't burn up. 
At Moses' request, God brought his brother Aaron to help him do what God had for him to do, and off they went to that familiar palace to deliver a very hard message.  "Let my people go or...."

So, Moses and Aaron told Pharaoh what God had said and Pharaoh refused.  Big surprise.

I'm already feeling sorry for Moses.  He has before him an impossible task humanly speaking.  He is no match and no threat to Pharaoh.  In fact, in response to Moses' direction from God, Pharaoh just makes life more difficult for the very people Moses wants to help.  Pharaoh doubles the workload. 

"Is this why you sent me?"
"You haven't saved Your people at all!"
(Exodus 5:22,23 NIV)

I'm not Moses.  But I sure empathize and sympathize. 

I look at my circumstances and wonder "Why Lord?  I thought I was about to get to a place where life would be easier from here on out.  I thought I had worked hard enough to take it easy in the near future.  I have done what I understood You to ask.  Now, it seems that things will just get harder...."

Looks like the promised land is just a little further.  (.....where is that cloud....???) 

Just look at me....

It wasn't meant to be advice really.  It was just a comment in a casual conversation.

 "Just look at me", she said. 

It has always been true of me that I learn best from a negative experience or example.  I have been in situations that made me purpose to never be guilty of some wrong behavior or attitude.  I have learned how I do NOT want to treat other people.  I have learned how I do NOT want to make a mess of relationships.  I have learned how I do NOT want to behave, react, or respond.

I have learned those things by being treated poorly, by seeing others suffer because of poor treatment, by seeing relationships crumble and words ripping thru hearts.

At my age, I might have expected to have it all mastered by now.  But just look at me too.

My mother's words come repeated from my own heart tonight.  Just look at me, I have learned a lot, and I still fail miserably.  Don't we all....

I look at her and know that she had hour after hour to look back in regret.  Her situation might have been different. 

I look at me and know that there is much to regret as well.  My life might have been different.  I might have been a better wife, mother, friend, employee....I might have been a better person. 

But as my first daughter-in-law often says, 'It is what it is'. 

So I purpose tonight to take my mother's unintended advice.  I purpose to not be defeated by the enemy's accusations over the regret that I do have.  I purpose to hear the soft still Voice whispering and leading forward.  He is able to "restore what the locusts have eaten"(Joel 2:25)

I purpose to learn as much as I can from every wrong choice and every painful mistake.  And I purpose to live in victory not regret, knowing that He is more than able to handle what I can not.

Hallelujah.

T.H.I.N.K.

T.H.I.N.K…..

"...whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things." (Phil. 4:8 NASB)

Sometimes it's hard to find something to think about.

The enemy makes sure there is plenty of things to think about that are not true, that are not honorable, that are not right, that are not pure, that are not lovely, that have no good repute or excellence, things that certainly are not worthy of praise.....it is easy to find those things to dwell on.

God has given me a filter.  If only I could use it consistently.  If only I could remember to T.H.I.N.K.  If I could always remember to filter my thoughts and choose what is really true, what brings honor, what is really right and pure, what cultivates good repute rather than tearing down.

Yet, I fall into the enemy’s trap and find myself thinking on things from his perspective rather than my Lord’s perspective.

Satan has always used that tactic.  He distorts truth.  He presents it to us and so often we take it and bite right into it, even though we have been advised differently.

If there was just an off switch.  Wouldn’t that be great?  A switch to just turn my thoughts off.  At least for a while….

I purpose tonight to begin afresh, repenting of wrong thinking and begin “ fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ.”   (2 Cor. 10:5 The Message)

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How long has it been....

My daddy asked that question today.  He read aloud the lyrics to an old familiar hymn. 

How long since your mind felt at ease?

How long since your heart knew no burden?

How long since you felt this day is worth living?

Those are questions that don't always have a positive answer.  Often my mind if anything but at ease.  Often my heart is extremely burdened.  And many days I wonder just why I'm doing what I do. 

Then I look at the faces of those people in the wheelchairs that fill the room of the nursing home, one of them holding my mother.  If I can't answer those questions in a positive light, how might they feel? What makes the day worth living?  What burdens their mind, what makes their mind uneasy?  

My mother told me that after 60 years of marriage, being separated is hard.  I told her that yes, I was sure that it was and that I could only imagine it.  Having been married to the same precious man for 40 years myself, I can imagine it.  But imagining it is not the same as living the reality of it.  

How long has it been since she's been alone?  60+ years, that's how long. 

The lyrics of the song served to remind her that she is not alone.  The song challenged all of us.

How long since you talked with the Lord?

How long since you told Him your heart's secrets?

How long since you stayed on your knees til the light shone through?

There is no separation from God.  There is nothing except our own neglect that keeps Him from sharing our heart's secrets.  Nothing that keeps His Light from shining through the gloom of our days except that we simply do not look to Him.  "You do not have, because you do not ask..." (James 4:2 NIV)

How long has it been since you called Him your Friend? 

How long since you knew in your knowing place, that He genuinely cares for you? 

Hopelessly devoted to you....

Maggie was just that, hopelessly devoted.


It didn’t take much to make her happy. Talk to her. Give her a little attention. Touch her. Let her be near you.


I regret that I didn’t accept her devotion. She was clingy. She was messy. She smelled. She wanted so badly to love on me. I kept her at a distance.


I watched as someone else appreciated her devotion. The messiness and the smell didn’t stop him from receiving the devotion she had for him. He simply accepted her love, messiness, smell and all.


I’ve learned some hard lessons from Maggie. Maggie never let rejection change her. Day after day I kept her at a distance. Day after day she tried to demonstrate her devotion. Even when I refused it over and over, she still offered her love and she still wanted mine.


I want to be more like Maggie and less like me. I want to be free with my affection. I want to be hopelessly devoted.


I’m sorry Maggie. It’s too late to show you. If there was not another single purpose for your life, you showed me what it means to be hopelessly devoted. I saw love demonstrated with no expectations or demands. If there are dogs in heaven you are there.








 

Sitting in the shade...

I spent a majority of my day doing just that.  Sitting in the shade on my little concrete patio, looking at the roses, snapdragons, and peonies that are blooming in the flowerbeds.  It has been a while since I could do that, just sit.

I did very little reading, online or off.  No Ipad, no computer.  I did keep my phone nearby because my business is open today so I had to be available.  No books, no magazines.  Just sitting.

Elijah did some sitting in the shade once. His sitting was done out of exhaustion, depression, and desperation.  (I Kings 19:4)

I’ve done sitting of that sort too.  But not today.  Today was a restful day.  Restful for body and mind.  It was a great day, don’t get me wrong…I enjoyed it.

But how do people just sit and do nothing day after day?  Accomplishing nothing.  Contributing nothing.  Just taking up space.

I struggle with resentment in this.  I work.  Hard and long.  It just irks me that what I work for ends up in the belly of somebody sitting in the shade, day after day after day.

It shouldn’t be that way.  Paul says so too.

  “Don't you remember the rule we had when we lived with you? "If you don't work, you don't eat."  And now we're getting reports that a bunch of lazy good-for-nothings are taking advantage of you.  This must not be tolerated. We command them to get to work immediately--no excuses, no arguments--and earn their own keep.  Friends, don't slack off in doing your duty.  If anyone refuses to obey our clear command written in this letter, don't let him get by with it. Point out such a person and refuse to subsidize his freeloading. Maybe then he'll think twice. “ (2 Thes. 3:10-14 The Message)

Sitting in the shade is pleasant. But it must never become a way of life.

I sing because.....

Sometimes a song is just appropriate. When there’s a cake with candles, the happy birthday song is appropriate. When a new year is dawning, it’s Auld Lange Syne.


Music is a gift of God. We’ve learned how to use it in different ways, different styles, added different words. We have even perverted it and used it in wrong ways. The enemy doesn’t leave anything untouched, he’s done his thing on music too, using it for evil instead of the good that God created it for.


On Sunday, I sing because it is appropriate. It is appropriate to sing to and about our Creator God. Not because He needs His ego stroked. It is appropriate because I need to be reminded of His love and majesty.

“….be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Eph. 5:18-20 NIV)



Making music about our Lord ushers in the Spirit of God, promotes a heart of gratitude to Him for His love and provision, and being filled with His Presence makes it impossible for the enemy to fill us with his lies, his accusations, stealing our joy. That is the enemy’s intent you know…. “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy…” (John 10:10 NIV)

This Sunday, we sang for an activity. We visited a nursing home and thought it would be a distraction, add to the conversation. Or relieve a lack of it….

Music brings back memories and emotions. Music that speaks of the nature of God reminds us of Who He is. Songs about His Majesty remind us of who we are. And who we are NOT.


I sing because I’m happy.

I sing because I’m free.

His eye is on the sparrow,

And I know He watches….me.


Hallelujah

Disappear into thin air....

I wish it were that easy don’t you? I wish problems could just ‘poof’. 


In these days of social media, we may think it is possible. A couple clicks on the privacy settings and ‘poof’…. 

But things don’t disappear, problems aren’t solved. Oh, I think it is often wise to remove ourselves from media situations, especially those of the dramatic variety. But shutting people out never solves an issue.

We humans can’t make anything disappear into thin air. Only God can do that.

“As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us.” (Ps. 103:12 NASB)

How thankful I am that he doesn’t shut me out when I disappoint Him or betray Him. How thankful I am that He doesn’t point His Finger and make me disappear into thin air. 

I pray You know Him well enough to take your problems to Him instead of trying to make them disappear on your own. You’ll never make them disappear.


 

Running off at the mouth....

I know better.  I’ve been warned.

“…the tongue is a small part of the body. But it brags a lot. Think about how a small spark can set a big forest on fire……… the most evil part of the body. It pollutes the whole person…….. the tongue is set on fire by hell.    People have controlled all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea….. But no one can control the tongue. It is an evil thing that never rests. It is full of deadly poison. With our tongues we praise our Lord and Father. With our tongues we call down curses on people….. Praise and cursing come out of the same mouth. My brothers and sisters, it shouldn't be that way.” (James 3:5-10 NIrV)

Today was one of those days that my tongue was not surrendered to that still small Voice.  I was controlling it.  Or, rather….there was no control of it.

I have excuses.  Too much work with too little sleep.  Frustration. Problems with no obvious solutions. The list could get much longer.

When I allow my mouth to spew off,  situations never get better.  They usually just get worse.  It is a devil’s lie that my words have any power to make situations better. It is in my silence that the power comes.  His power.

So tonight, with the words of David, I again regret moments of uncensored words.


“…The directions the LORD gives are true. All of them are completely right……I am warned by them. When I obey them, I am greatly rewarded.  Can I know my mistakes? Forgive my hidden faults.   Keep me also from the sins I want to commit. May they not be my master. Then I will be without blame. I will not be guilty of any great sin against your law.    LORD, may the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart be pleasing in your eyes. You are my Rock and my Redeemer.” (Psa. 19:9-14 NIrV)

Glued to the screen....

Some folks use their phone.  Some use a tablet, others use a computer.  Some opt for the old fashioned television.  All of these screens can show you a radar screen and give you information about bad weather.

For days, the weather forecasters talked about the conditions being right for tornados.  For days, some of us were glued to the screen, watching and expecting.  We want to be prepared.  We don’t want to be caught off guard, have some devastating wind sneak up on us unaware.

I wasn’t one of those who stayed glued to the screen these past few days.  Perhaps because the man I share my life with watches the weather closely, not just the screens on electronic devices, but the conditions of the wildlife, the way smoke rises or falls, etc.  He watches it, so I don’t.  I depend on him to watch out for our safety in that regard, as in many other things.

The words of an old song come to mind.

There’s a great day coming, a great day coming, there’s a a great day coming by and by.
When the saints and the sinners shall be parted right and left, are you ready for that day to come?

There’s a bright day coming, a bright day coming, there’s a bright day coming by and by.
But it’s brightness shall only come to them that love the Lord, are you ready for that day to come?

There’s a sad day coming, a sad day coming, there’s a sad day coming by and by.
When the sinner shall hear his doom, ‘Depart, I know ye not.’
Are you ready for that day to come?

Are you ready?  Are you ready? Are you ready for the judgment day?
Are you ready Are you ready? Are you ready for the judgment day?

We don’t need a phone, computer, or television to prepare for this great event.  We need a Savior.

It is impossible to prepare our own selves.

Impossible.

No behavior modification will help.

I pray you know Him as that day approaches.

Why me Lord....?*•♫♪♪♫••*•♫♪♫•*•♫♪♪*

*•♫♪♪♫••*•♫♪♫•*•♫♪♪* what have I ever done, to deserve even one....of the pleasures I've known.*•♫♪♪♫••*•♫♪♫•*•♫♪♪*.

Tonight I sat and watched reports about devastation from tornados.  Storms have been predicted for our area for several days.  I was never much concerned about it.  I fully realized the possibility.  I also fully realized that I can't do a single solitary thing about it one way or the other.

I am thanking God tonight that me and mine have not been touched by tragedy.  Yet, I know that somewhere at this very moment, there are cherished children of God who have been deeply hurt, some have perished.  Did they not pray to the same God?  Why did He allow this disaster?

It is not a new question.  Why do bad things happen to good people?  Why do good things happen to bad people?  I have no answer...

One thing I know.  God is not vicious.  He is not partial.  And He is not unjust.  I know that He is Master over everything He chooses to control.  Why He chooses as He does is not for me to know or understand.

He is God.  I am not.

I ask Him to bring peace and calm to the weather, and to the hearts and bodies of all who are in such chaos and calamity tonight.

He is God.  He is able.

Nothing stays the same ...

Life is always changing.  At the moment of conception, things begin to change.  Life begins to travel forward.  A fetus grows. A baby is birthed.  A child grows into a toddler.  A teenager learns to drive.  A young adult marries and has a family.  Grandchildren come and so do wrinkles and arthritis.

I find myself watching two people struggling thru yet more times of life’s change.  Even as our parents muddle their way thru the changes of their lives, as their children, we struggle with them.

I am so thankful that the last change will be magnificent.  “…let me tell you something wonderful, a mystery I'll probably never fully understand. We're not all going to die--but we are all going to be changed.  You hear a blast to end all blasts from a trumpet, and in the time that you look up and blink your eyes--it's over. On signal from that trumpet from heaven, the dead will be up and out of their graves, beyond the reach of death, never to die again. At the same moment and in the same way, we'll all be changed.” (1 Cor. 15:51-52 The Message)

Paul didn’t have it all figured out so neither do I.  But I know it will be glorious and eternal.  Changed forever, made to be like Him.  Pure, pain free, ageless.

“But friends, that's exactly who we are: children of God. And that's only the beginning. Who knows how we'll end up! What we know is that when Christ is openly revealed, we'll see him--and in seeing him, become like him. All of us who look forward to his Coming stay ready, with the glistening purity of Jesus' life as a model for our own.” (1John 3: 2-3 The Message)

For now, changing is a fact of life.  Ushering us toward final death.

Well….unless death has been swallowed up in victory.  “When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: "Death has been swallowed up in victory." (1Cor. 15:54 NIV)

Changing is easier when we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, so “Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed--that exhilarating finish in and with God--he could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame, whatever. And now he's there, in the place of honor, right alongside God.  When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!” (Hebrews 12: 2-3 NIV)


Hallelujah.

Mary had a little lamb….



My little sister tried raising one when she was in school.  I was grown and gone, but I remember that grooming a sheep seemed like a monstrous task.  Unfortunately, her sheep seemed to look pretty shabby as I remember….

Sheep aren’t known for being smart.  They need a lot of care, a lot of protection, and a lot of provision. Tending sheep would be very involved and time consuming.

I haven’t raised sheep, never been around a little lamb really, but I’m always drawn to the pictures of them.  They look precious somehow….Baby animals of any kind are like that.  Precious.

Imagine caring for a little lamb, feeding it, grooming it, protecting it, then carrying it to a religious center and handing it over to some stranger that will kill it and drain the blood out on a stone altar.  Imagine picking out the very best one, not to pet and love, but to die.  Imagine a perfect wool coat, stained with blood.

Ugh…..

Again, I am thankful to be born this side of the cross.  Again, I am thankful that I have never had to choose a substitute to be sacrificed as penalty for my own transgression of law.  Again, I struggle to wrap my mind around the truth of all that Jesus did.

For me.

Hallelujah.

Driven out....

Something stirred my thoughts earlier this week about the scene at the east gate of The Garden.  When Adam and Eve had disobeyed God and had obtained for themselves the knowledge of good and evil from the forbidden tree, the Bible tells us they were driven out.

“So He drove the man out; and at the east of the garden of Eden He stationed the cherubim and the flaming sword which turned every direction to guard the way to the tree of life.” (Genesis 3: 24 NASB)

In war, that’s what the objective is, to drive out the enemy.  After being driven out, steps are taken to prevent their return.  In a sense, Adam and Eve had become enemies.

 “….friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.” (James 4:4 NIV)

I am convinced that the garden incident will be rich in lessons for humanity for as long as time here continues.  Looking at what happened seems a little severe at first, at least to me.  So, they disobeyed.  So, they now knew what evil was and had chosen to partake of the knowledge of it.  Wasn’t the punishment an overkill?  Why kick them out of their home?  Why drive them away from the very place made especially for them?

“…..to guard the way to the tree of life.”

Driven out to protect the tree?  No.  Driven out to protect them FROM the tree, protected from eating of it and forever living in the condition they now found themselves in.  Flawed.  Stained with sin. Naked and ashamed, afraid of the Creator Who gave them life.

So today I am thankful for my ancestors being driven out so that I  inherited only their knowledge of good and evil and not an eternal state of such.

I also praise God for the remedy He has given freeing me  from the fallen state they passed on to me.  I am thankful to have the penalty of death removed.  “…from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat from it you will surely die." (Genesis 2:17 NASB)

And I am especially thankful that once I am freed from certain eternal death, I am assured that never again will I be find myself in that place.  Just as my ancestors were protected from an eternal life of sin, I too am protected.  Not by flaming swords in the hands of cherubim, but by the blood of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God.

Hallelujah.

It's just a name....

No.  It’s not JUST a name.  Names are very important.  I wonder if we are aware of just how important they are.

Biblical names were extremely important,  names almost prophesied over the life of the person.  After making a simple search in scripture, I found dozens of times that names were given ‘because’.

Beginning in Genesis 3:20 NIV  “Adam named his wife Eve, because she would become the mother of all the living.”  All the way to Matthew 1:21, "…… will name him Jesus--'God saves'--because he will save his people from their sins." (from The Message)

Eve means life giver.  She became the first mother.
Jesus means life saver.  He became the first and only Savior.

I wonder what my name says about me.  Did my name have any impact on who I am, who I have become.

What does your name say about you?

Connie is Latin for ‘constant’ and ‘steadfast’. Can I fulfill the requirements of that name?

 I am certainly given what is needed to fulfill that name.  I am given the Holy Spirit of God Who empowers me and equips me to be indeed steadfast, sure, and constant.  He has preserved His written Word, scripture that “…. is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,  so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (1Timothy 3:17 NIV)

My name is Connie.  I am constant and steadfast not because of mother Eve or my birth mother who gave me my name.  I am constant and steadfast because of my Savior Jesus who calls me Friend.  “ …., I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. (John 15:15 NIV)

“… the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ…..will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” (1Peter 5:10 NIV)

Hallelujah.

Be the winner...

At the time of this writing, the local football team has just won a playoff victory. There is a lot of rejoicing going on.   I'm not a football fan but I applaud the team efforts that led to the big win today.  Earlier today I noticed numerous people headed to the out of town game, and it's below average cold temperatures here today.  They braved the cold to encourage and support the athletes.  Everyone there today wanted to be the winner.  Someone had to lose.


I'm not much of a competitor.  Perhaps I'm fooling even myself when I claim to be noncompetitive.  I'm as human as everyone else so I like to come out on top too.  I suppose nobody likes to be beaten, but I have to say that I'm pretty quick to give up or give in when the competition gets intense.  I just don't like the feeling of competing.....fear of losing most likely.

There is one thing in which I continue to strive for. "I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (Philipians 3:14 NIV)

In this, there is no longer fear of losing.  The outcome doesn't rest on my ability or talent, not even on my determination.  I do not compete against you or any other person for the victory that is mine.

  "...thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." (1 Cor. 15:57-58 NIV my emphasis)

The victory I have, has been given not won.  It did not require team effort.  I have accepted it not earned it. I can't lose it.

Because of this huge victory, I purpose to "Rejoice in the Lord always...and to let my gentleness be evident to all, to not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present my requests to God.... knowing that the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard my heart and  mind in Christ Jesus. I purpose that whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--I will think about such things  I know that  I can do all this through Him who gives me strength." (personalized selections from Philippians 4:4-13 NIV)

Tight knit...

I popped in the salon today in my incapacitated state.  I joke that I have to keep them straight, make them act right, see that they get everything done.  Truth is, I love being there and I miss the camaraderie.  During my visit today I got a glimpse of something I hope I can capture in words.

I began to realize and ponder on it after getting back home and picking up my Sunday school book to read a couple pages of next week’s lesson.  The lesson is entitled Serve Humbly, the scripture passage John 13. In this passage, Jesus fleshed out an act of service to his disciples that was beneath anyone but a slave.  He washed their feet.  Further more, He said they needed to do the same thing for others.


"Do you understand what I have done to you?   You address me as 'Teacher' and 'Master,' and rightly so. That is what I am.  So if I, the Master and Teacher, washed your feet, you must now wash each other's feet.   I've laid down a pattern for you. What I've done, you do.   I'm only pointing out the obvious. A servant is not ranked above his master; an employee doesn't give orders to the employer.  If you understand what I'm telling you, act like it--and live a blessed life.” (John 13:12-17 The Message)


Our reason for existing as a business at A Total Change is service.  We offer services and we are paid for those services.  But just because we are paid for them does not remove the principal of serving humbly.  Our goal is to do the very best we can for every single person.

What touched my heart today was not the humble service to paying clients, it was the humble service to one another.  Whether it’s trash to take out, a bathroom to clean, color bottles to wash, towels to fold, customers to help, or a baby to change, those girls are a tight knit group.  No one person is more important than another.  Nobody is too good to do anything that needs to be done. It’s not measured and paid for in dollars and cents.  It is a matter of humble selflessness.

All of those things are MY responsibilities.  The buck stops with me. Except for the fact that I am surrounded by a tight knit group of coworkers who also flesh out the same principle of Jesus’ foot washing.  Except for the fact that they don’t just do what they are paid to do.   They go far beyond that.

Oh we are quite human.  Just as Jesus’ disciples had disagreements and a little competitiveness,  this tight knit group does.  We all have a bad day occasionally, get a little grumpy, exasperated or impatient.  But never enough to tear us apart.

 We have no Judas among us.

I am blessed beyond measure.

Blessed more than I deserve...

I godly gentlemen with whom I have stood hand in hand praying over our community is known to respond with those words.  When I’ve asked ‘how are you?’, every single time he has said, “blessed more than I deserve.”  He’s not rich, he’s not famous, he’s got his own share of struggles, but he counts his blessings above all else.

In fact, who deserves blessings of any kind?  Personally, I don’t want what I really deserve, and I’m ever so thankful that I don’t get what I deserve.  I have broken about every single command of God in one way or another, many of them on a daily basis.

1. I’ve often put something or someone else above God. He has not always been the driving force of my life.

2. I have done whatever I have done for reasons other than God’s purposes. Rituals replaced a real relationship with Him for years. A body of people or a pile of bricks and lumber represented Him to me for far too long.

3. I have used His name in ways that were not respectful to Him. While I have not often used it in words of cursing, I have done so in empty misuse.

4. I have failed to stop my own work and reflect on His.  Completely.  Without interruption. Without distraction.

5. I have often dishonored my parents with my actions, attitudes, and words.

6.  I am legally innocent of murder.  I am morally guilty. Murdering opportunities, reputations, killing joyfulness and hopefulness.  By not promoting life, I have chosen to promote death.

7. I am not guilty of sexual sin against my husband, but I have dishonored him in other ways.

8.  I have not shoplifted.  I have not robbed a bank or otherwise taken any kind of item that did not belong to me.  I have however, taken advantage of a circumstance for my own gain, I have failed to correct a price mistake or a mistake in change refunded to me. I have taken the opportunity to rob someone of reputation. I have a yearly battle with stealing from a government.  

9. I have discussed someone else’s actions when I did not know the absolute truth of it. I have been drawn into discussing ‘prayer needs’ that turned into holy gossip sessions.  I have made judgments about people based on information that was not true.

10.  I am guilty of trying to feed my own desires.  I have done whatever it took to get what I wanted.  I am learning that fulfilling my own wants and wishes is unending. Satisfaction is short lived and fleeting, if it ever comes at all.


Exodus 20:1-17 and Deuteronomy 5:4-21 both have the list of ten statements of instruction.  It’s a simple list of ten do’s and don’ts. You will find that you are guilty.  The penalty is death.

You need Jesus just as I do.  He has blessed us with an opportunity of forgiveness, redemption, restoration, and blessing.

Far more than we deserve.  Hallelujah.

Failed connection...

It seems there is a problem with our phone line and the credit card processing machine.  Over and over we get the same response from it: failed connection.  So, we do it over.  And over.  Third time is charm, sometimes. Often, it takes the fourth and fifth time.  It is annoying and a total waste of time. I’ve looked at the wires but it seems that everything is plugged in right.  Still, it fails to connect.

I fail to connect too.  But when there is a connection, it’s awesome.

I connect via a different line of communication than the phone line attached to my credit card processor. I connect to The One Who processes every transaction, He processes every thought, every intention, every action, every word.  There is never a transaction that He misses.

"I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve." (Jeremiah 17:10 NIV)


 Sometimes it takes longer to get myself connected.  To be honest, sometimes I quit trying.  Other times, I don’t even try but He is really always connected.  His Spirit within me never leaves.  He promised.  “God has said, "I will never leave you. I will never desert you." (Hebrews 13:5 NIrV)

Yes, I fail to connect, but when there is a connection, it’s awesome. It was a brief moment today…a God moment, a prayerful moment when I got just a glimpse of His activity.  I was reminded of His promises and wondered that I wasn’t actually seeing how He was fulfilling them.

"Look at the birds of the air. They don't plant or gather crops. They don't put away crops in storerooms. But your Father who is in heaven feeds them. Aren't you worth much more than they are? Can you add even one hour to your life by worrying?” (Matthew 6:26-27 NIrV)

"My thoughts are not like your thoughts. And your ways are not like my ways," announces the LORD. The heavens are higher than the earth. And my ways are higher than your ways. My thoughts are higher than your thoughts.  The rain and the snow come down from the sky. They do not return to it without watering the earth. They make plants come up and grow. The plants produce seeds for farmers. They also produce food for people to eat.  The words I speak are like that. They will not return to me without producing results. They will accomplish what I want them to. They will do exactly what I sent them to do.” (Isaiah 55:8-11 NIrV)

He has promised to meet my needs.  How He chooses to do so is up to Him.  Everything He does, everything He allows…has purpose.  I have learned that He can be trusted.

And many times, it is such an adventure…..

Sing like a bird...

People who get caught sometimes do just that in trying to get themselves off the hook.  They sing like a bird, telling all they know about other people as if it somehow diminishes their own guilt.  But that is really not singing, and it really is an insult to the word ‘sing‘ and an insult to the bird.

Singing was God’s idea (and the beauty of a bird’s voice was his idea too).

I do so love to sing.  My voice is fair, better than some, certainly not as fine as many others.  I love music, I especially love harmony and my voice is better suited for it.  Music has a tremendous power and anyone can sing.  If the vocal chords work at all, singing is possible.  You might not sing well, but you can sing.   You may not play an instrument, but your heart and mind can be touched by hearing one played, and it is wise to be purposeful in what music we choose to hear.

Saul found himself in a sad state of depression.  Because of his choices and his rebellion against God, “…the Spirit of the LORD had departed from Saul…” (1 Samuel 16:14 NIV) Saul had enjoyed God’s very near Presence and had known His guidance and blessing.  Now, because Saul had become disobedient, he had lost God’s Hand of blessing.  He was miserable and made everyone around him miserable.  In an effort to improve his mood, a talented musician was brought in to play some soothing music.

Music can set the atmosphere.  Whether it’s the music playing at a shopping mall, or music in a restaurant, it has the power to influence us.  Singing can bring tears, stir memories, soothe tension or create it.  David’s music soothed and changed Saul’s mood.  I wonder what might have been different if Saul had used his own voice.  What if he had joined not only his voice but his heart with the music David made.    

We are instructed to use our voices on purpose FOR a purpose.  “Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord.” (Ephesians 5:19 NIrV)

I believe this advice is far more than instructions about corporate worship practices. Whatever we do should be permeated by our love and appreciation of the One Who has given us life and rescued us from death, including the music we make or listen to, including the songs we hear or sing. It takes an act of will to do so, but using our voice in singing music to the God Who created us has an incredible power to change us.

From a pew in a church building and a Heavenly Highways hymnal in hand or in a restaurant with a menu. Standing at the kitchen stove cooking or standing in line at the grocery store. In the shower or in the car.  In that private place or on a public stage……

Sing like a bird.

And refuse to allow the enemy of God to pervert once again what God has given.

Shake it off....

There were times I wanted to strangle a few coaches for saying it. (…or yelling it.) No matter what the problem, their solution was to just keep going. No matter the hurt or injury, no matter the upset, the instruction was to just keep performing. (I yelled it myself at times but I was admonishing my sons to shake off the screaming from the sidelines more than anything else!) I was a momma, they were coaches, we had different ideas of what was paramount.

There are indeed times we need to be able to ‘shake it off’. We need to be able to put aside situations or circumstances, expectations or disappointments. We have to go on. And sadly, that includes the concept of leaving behind.

We leave behind places and things. We even leave behind relationships. It is a difficult call to make, and even harder to live out.

“But they shook off the dust of their feet in protest against them and went to Iconium. And the disciples were continually filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 13:51-52 NASB)
In our lives, we eventually learn that we have to ‘shake it off’ or we live in a state of constant dysfunction, being shaken UP. And you know what?….shaking off the hard stuff is really easy to do in anger. It’s easy to get mad and walk away when we have a problem or when we are rejected. But being shaken up by a situation in our lives is not an excuse to completely quit. It is never ok for us to become calloused or uncaring. We may very well have to shake it off, but we are called to keep on, to continue on, not in anger, but with love and joy, in the power of the Holy Spirit of God.

　

Paul and Barnabas shook off the dust, washed their hands of the situation, and went on. NOT because they didn’t care, not because they were glad that people had rejected the Good New of Jesus Christ. They just simply understood that there was nothing else they could do. They had to ‘shake it off’ and go on.

It is hard. I tend to hang on. So many times I’ve thought that if I tried hard enough, I could change it. So many times the Lord has had to pry my fingers off of some situation or circumstance. I find it difficult to find that balanced spot of shaking it off and persevering in it. I have learned to pray in specific ways for Him to slam doors in my face, that way I have no other choice but to shake it off and go on. And He has answered. Often.

　

As my arms fail to serve me as they have in the past, I wonder if it is a door closing? And as I wonder, I attempt to ‘shake it off’. I struggle to surrender what lies ahead to The One Who knows exactly what does indeed lie ahead, knowing in my head and in my heart that He is always, and only….good.


　

Forget my head if it wasn't attached...

I remember being told that when I was a kid. My mind would be elsewhere and I would forget what I was supposed to do, forget what I was supposed to get or take. When I left work today, I forgot my cell phone. I didn’t miss it until I got home and it was a real temptation to drive back and get it but I was just too tired. I did, however, feel like I might just fly off the planet without it. I’ve managed to make it thru most of the night without having done so, but if you knew the time of this writing, you’d know that I haven’t slept much. I’m not sure if the missing cellphone has anything to do with that or not.

I blame my absentminded condition on an overloaded brain. I just get too many things bouncing around in my blonde head at one time and like this laptop I’m on right now, it just gets bogged down and often, some things just disconnect and I forget stuff.

I have developed a habit of forgetting to turn the burner off on the stove. Mr. Safety always catches it and I get a pleasant but firm ‘you really need to watch that Connie…’ from him.

I forget what I need at the store. I make a list, then I forget to take it. I forget what kind of ink cartridge goes in my printer. The list could go on and on.

Even God forgets.

There is only one thing He forgets, but He does forget that. He forgets my sin.
“… as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” (Psalm 103:12 NIV)



When I have turned from it and turned to Jesus, it is gone and forgotten. Oh, I may remember it and I can be sure that the enemy of my soul will remind me of it.

　

"Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God have come. The authority of his Christ has come. Satan, who brings charges against our brothers and sisters, has been thrown down. He brings charges against them before our God day and night.

They overcame him because the Lamb gave his life's blood for them. They overcame him by giving witness about Jesus to others……So be joyful, you heavens! Be glad, all you who live there! But how terrible it will be for the earth and the sea! The devil has come down to you. He is very angry. He knows his time is short." (Revelation 12:10-12 NIrV)

When the enemy reminds me of my shortcomings, I purpose to remind him….God forgives and forgets. Hallelujah.

That devil can just forget about it….

Meeting payroll....

As a business owner, it’s always in the back of my mind. I have to meet payroll. I only have two people on my actual payroll, but there are four more to whom I write a commission check every quarter. It is my responsibility to see that they are paid what is due them. I am fortunate to have people who take pride in our workplace and who do far more than what they are paid to do.

Hired people don’t always do much more than what is absolutely necessary. They may do that much only when they know they are being watched. However, they expect the signer of the check to do far more for them than just meet payroll!

I’ve been on both sides now. I’ve worked for people who gave me only what I earned, and then grudgingly. I’ve worked for people who were far more generous than they had to be. I purpose to be that sort….

My Father is.

He doesn’t give me what I earn.

He doesn’t have to worry about meeting His payroll, He can lavish me with far more than I deserve and never exhaust His resources. And because of that, it is my desire to do anything and everything I can possibly do to serve Him well.

I'm no saint...

I have heard that disclaimer many times. I always know what the person means to communicate by it, but often, it’s really just not true.

Let’s make sure we are on the same page about it. What is a saint? Looking at it from the negative, what is it NOT? Being a saint does NOT mean being perfect and living a perfect life because “Everyone has sinned” (Romans 3:23 NIrV).

There ARE saints. They are mentioned numerous times in scripture. The apostle Paul spoke about them and wrote to them many times. There are also many other references in the Bible to saints.

Most of the time we use the phrase “I’m no saint”, it is usually followed by a ‘but’. We might remark “I’m no saint, but I don’t ____________.” ( You can fill in that blank.)

We excuse ourselves because we don’t find the same fault in ourselves as we see in someone else. Problem with that is that we are comparing ourselves to some other person rather than the holy Creator God of the universe. He is the only Perfect One. The rest of us are flawed. So how could we possibly be saints?

Well, I am a saint. I’m not perfect, but I am being perfected. By the work of Jesus Christ, not my own, my imperfections are forgiven and erased. “It was a perfect sacrifice by a perfect person to perfect some very imperfect people. By that single offering, he did everything that needed to be done for everyone who takes part in the purifying process” (Hebrews 10:14 The Message)

I’m a saint. I have been made perfect. I am being made holy. And if you wear the Name of Christ, you are too. Hallelujah.

“For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.” (Hebrews 10:14 NIV)

Hard to decide...

I don’t often have trouble making decisions. In fact, I am prone to make a decision in haste and later regret it. In my younger, even more foolish years, I’ve often said, ‘I’m going to do something even if it’s something wrong”. I would laugh then, but it was a very foolish attitude.

I’ve made decisions when I didn’t really like any of the options. I’ve made decisions with too little information and suffered the consequences of it. And I’ve even just flatly refused to make a decision. I think they call that ‘passing the buck’.

A decision is sometimes simply to wait. (…doing nothing was what I would have called that a few years ago. Waiting is NOT doing nothing….)

Life is a series of decisions. Every single one is important, and every single one effects far more than just ourselves. The prophet Joel described our situation, “Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision! For the day of the LORD is near in the valley of decision.” (Joel 3:14 NIV)

Right now, I’m making decisions about some health issues. I don’t like any of the options but need something to change. I can choose a doctor to help with the issue, or plod along like I am….waiting. A wrong decision may mean my arm loses even more range of motion.

There is one decision that every single person needs desperately to decide “..for the day of the Lord is near..” (Joel 3:14 NIV). Whether it is today, tomorrow, or next month, your time is limited. Even if it is in the next century, your time will have long since ran out. If you choose to wait too long, it may mean you suffer some grave consequences.

It can be hard to decide .The enemy will lie and deceive and provide plenty of options. He kept me burdened and bound for a long time, until I decided to give up. It was the best decision I ever made. I gave up, I did not give in. I gave up to Jesus, I did not give in to the enemy of my soul, liar and devil that he is.

“But the LORD will be a refuge for his people, a stronghold for the people of Israel. Then you will know that I, the LORD your God, dwell in Zion…” (Joel 3:16-17 NIV).

God decided before I was in my mother’s womb, He loves me. I can’t fathom it. And I wonder how it was not incredibly hard for Him to decide to do so. How could Jesus decide to lower Himself to a body of flesh like mine, just to help me in the valley of decision? For He did. And He stands waiting to help you in yours.

　

　
　

　

Love much, love well...

When the occasion gives opportunity, I like to give the gift of a Bible. Recently, an occasion came and as is my custom, I highlighted a couple of my favorite scriptures in an engraved Bible. This occasion was a wedding, I just love seeing the bride look at a new Bible with her new name engraved on the front!

I almost always echo Paul’s words to the people of Phillipi. “So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well. Learn to love appropriately. You need to use your head and test your feelings so that your love is sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush. Live a lover's life, circumspect and exemplary, a life Jesus will be proud of: bountiful in fruits from the soul, making Jesus Christ attractive to all, getting everyone involved in the glory and praise of God.” (Phillipians 1:9-11 from The Message)

Paul prayed that over the Phillipians pointing out to them that love grows and flourishes on purpose, not on accident. It’s not just about how we feel, it is very often a purposeful choice. We humans are apt to react rather than respond. Our nature doesn’t always make it easy to “discern what is best.” (Phillipians 1:10 NIV)

What a beautiful way to start a marriage, and a beautiful way to start every day: a look into God’s Holy Word and a prayer to love much and to love well.

My aching arms....

I am thankful for two arms that have served me well, arms I have used to do the work that has put food on the table and the extra things that our family has enjoyed.

I am also thankful that they have not always ached like they do today! And I'm so very thankful that they will not always ache like they do today.

"By His wounds I am healed." 1 Peter 2:24

I purpose to F.R.O.G. In the face of a faltering body, I purpose in my heart to rely completely on Him, not on my own two arms. He has never failed to meet and surpass my every need. He has even allowed some of my greed.

The enemy of our souls, deceiver of men, and accuser of the brethren, devil that he is, screams and tempts me to doubt. “How will you earn money if you can’t use your arms?”

I answer Him as Jesus did, with God’s Word. I will “do it with the strength God provides. Then in all things God will be praised through Jesus Christ. Give him the glory and the power..” (1 Peter 4:11 NIrV)

“ God is greater than my worried heart …” (1 John 3:20 The Message, personalized by me)

　

I want to “keep my eye on what I am doing; accept the hard times along with the good; keep the Message alive; do a thorough job as God's servant.” (2 Tim. 4:5 The Message personalized by me)

I purpose that I not “put my hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides me with everything….” (1 Tim. 6:17 NIV personalized by me)

　

“He has given me new birth so that I might share in what belongs to him. It is a gift that can never be destroyed. It can never spoil or even fade away. It is kept in heaven for me. Through faith I am kept safe by God's power…..I have joy even though I may have to suffer for a little while. ……My troubles have come in order to prove that my faith is real. It is worth more than gold. Gold can pass away even though fire has made it pure. My faith is meant to bring praise, honor and glory to God.” (1 Peter 1: 4-7 NIrV personalized by me)

God does not make my arms hurt, but He allows it. And in everything, there is purpose.

　

“Pray for me. I have no doubts about what I am doing or why, but it's hard going and I need your prayers. All I care about is living well before God.” (Hebrews 13:18 NIV personalized by me)

Check your filter.

I depend on my husband for most of it. He keeps the filters changed in the vehicles. He sees to it that all of the equipment filters are clean and clear. He always shows me the air conditioner filters when he pulls them out and every time, he will ask me if I think they need changing. Of course they are always disgusting and definitely need changing.

I tend to forget to check them until there is a malfunction. He remembers.

I have another filter, one that filters my thoughts, my attitudes, my words, my behavior. Sometimes I pull it aside and proceed unfiltered, but it is always a mistake. I am instructed to not do that. “Do not quench the Spirit” (1 Thes. 5:29 NASB)

When through faith in Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit of God came to dwell within me. He is a Person and He is real. And He is a great filter.


“Check out everything, and keep only what's good. Throw out anything tainted with evil.” (1 Thes. 5:22 The Message)

“Do not quench the Spirit; do not despise prophetic utterances. But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil. Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass.” (1Thes. 5:19-24 NASB)

It is easy for me to see what needs to be filtered out of your life. I purpose that I be even more sensitive to what needs to be filtered out of my own.

I purpose to be obedient and cooperative as the Spirit sanctifies me, never quenching that still small Voice, always listening for His whisper, trusting His guidance.

I purpose to use His filtering, avoiding the disasters and destruction that result when I proceed in my own way.

I am thankful for the filter He provides.

Magic Kingdom

We raised boys who weren’t interested in magic kingdoms. Disney was not very well watched at our house. I’ve never been to the magic kingdom of Disneyland, nor had the desire to. Certainly, our boys never asked to go. 

There are lots of movies and television programs about kingdoms with magic. All are fantasy. But there is a kingdom that is very real and it far exceeds magic. It is the kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ. And I am thankful…
　



“God rescued us from dead-end alleys and dark dungeons. He's set us up in the kingdom of the Son he loves so much, the Son who got us out of the pit we were in, got rid of the sins we were doomed to keep repeating. We look at this Son and see the God who cannot be seen. We look at this Son and see God's original purpose in everything created.”(Col. 1:13-15 The Message)

I am thankful to be a citizen of the kingdom of God. I purpose to “..walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls me into His own kingdom and glory.” (I Thes. 4:12 NASB personalized by me)

Give thanks...

It is November, the month of our Thanksgiving holiday. Turkey, dressing, ham, pumpkin pie, and dozens of other dishes. We will gather our families, cook more than we can eat, and eat more than we should.

I purpose that this Thanksgiving season remain a season of giving thanks. Beginning today I purpose to recognize and count the many blessings I have.

I am thankful there are more than I can count.

I am thankful that it is so difficult to decide which to name first, and which to name next.

I am most thankful for my salvation. I am thankful for the security I have in Jesus Christ. I am thankful for the training I have had in scripture and the awareness I have of that still small Voice Who uses those scriptures to guide me, chasten me, and encourage me. I am thankful the fear of the Lord I have been taught, and thankful the absolute ease of coming into His Presence with my every need.

Feeling a little froggy...

Frogs jump.  Some further than others, but they all jump.  I suppose the phrase "feelin' a little froggy" means you might feel like taking a leap.  I'm not much one to take leaps.  I like the safety zones.  My boundaries are pretty tight and I am secure there. 

Opening a new business at my age was definitely a leap.  And I must say I didn't feel at all froggy.  But I felt secure. I felt confident, and I felt led by the One I rely on. 

Somewhere long ago I saw the word frog used to abbreviate a lifestyle of trust in God.  F.R.O.G.  Fully Rely On God. I struggle with relying on Him, especially when I can't see the what, the where, or the how of my situation.  Often, I succumb to the enemy's taunt, "it's all up to you."  

It is not all up to me.
It is not all about me.

The leap I took some months ago turned out to be a very smooth glide.  Things fell into place.  And even though I had said I had more than I could say grace over, there has  been an expansion.  

It is still not all up to me.
It is still not all about me.

I asked myself some days ago, "why am I doing what I am doing, how am I going to keep going, how CAN I keep going with this tired aging body?" 

I don't know.  I just continue to rely on the God of the universe.  It's about Him and it's up to Him. 

I purpose in my heart to fully rely on Him in every moment of every day, thru every trial, thru every ache, thru every transaction, every sale, every service, every client, and pray that I will not miss an opportunity to speak His Name and give Him the credit for what He has and is doing.

He is so good. 

You can’t know what you don’t know.

I have said it again and again. You just simply can not know what you have no knowledge of.

Ignorance is often bliss, not knowing something is often a very good thing. Ask Eve, she would certainly tell you that she was better off without the knowledge she gained from eating that forbidden fruit, that bite changed everything. Now, she did know what she had not known. And everything in her world and ours was affected.

I long struggled over the ‘curse’ that her sin brought on us girls. I still can’t wrap my brain completely around it but as I’ve learned more about the character and nature of our Creator God, I’ve come to know that He is not mean and nasty and does not get pleasure from ‘cursing’ us.

A particular phrase comes to mind tonight as I see photographs of a new great-nephew. I remember having told this new mother that she could not know what was in store for her. I know that her own mother offered words of instruction and admonition about what was in store but….you can’t know what you don’t know. The birth is over and now she does knows about childbirth, she knows about a heart bursting with awe and adoration, she has experienced the miracle of life and the pain of bearing it. And even though there is joy unspeakable right now, she has begun to know the sorrow of bringing forth children.

　

“…in sorrow, you will bring forth children.” (Gen. 3:16 NKJV)

I believe this phrase means far more than labor pains and the physical part of bringing forth children. I believe it reaches from the delivery bed to the death bed. I believe the joy mixed with the pain of those few hours of childbirth is only the beginning of the joy mixed with the pain of the next decades of years of child rearing, years that end only when we breathe our own last breath. Years of trying to prevent mistakes, trying to share what we learned from our own, and being ignored or dismissed in doing so, just like Eve did with her own Father.

Once we become mothers, everything changes. Everything is affected.

Once a parent, always a parent. And the deeper you invest yourself in it, the greater both the joy and the sorrow. How very complex it is. So joyfully painful, yet so painfully joy filled. The pain we girls feel in our bodies pales in comparison to the pains of emotion and mind involved in bringing forth those children.

Thankfully, we don’t know that pain all at one time. It is a life long process begun on that birth day….and it is worth every single pang.  A thousand times over.

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

What will I wear?

It is a question familiar to most of us especially us girls. Whatever the event or destination, we begin planning the wardrobe. We consider what will be appropriate, we consider comfort but we often value attractiveness over comfort, high heels proves that!

I’m about to enlarge the boutique portion of my salon. As I watch this happening I am reminded of so many teachings and admonitions from scripture. I hear the echoed accusations from the enemy, accusing me of vanity and worldliness. “For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down” (Revelation 12:10 NIV). He is a liar and a deceiver.

Vanity is a problem and can lead us straight into sin, being caught up in the world brings all sorts of harm. Yet I believe we are created to appreciate beauty. It is not sinful to be well groomed and attired in clothing that is becoming. It is when we become so enthralled with our own beauty that we disregard the beauty of our Creator and Savior that brings judgment.

So many times I have said “your hair is not who you are”. Hair should be easy to manage and it should be attractive, but it must be kept in proper perspective. Cancer patients learn that pretty quick, after the first few chemo treatments. Hair is not who you are.

So it is with clothing. Clothes are not who we are, they do not define us. But clothing can and should be attractive and easily maintained.

So, I embark on this endeavor with the boutique. Pray with me that I follow God in this and not miss the opportunities He presents to speak His Name and tell of His goodness.

Clothing and jewelry are pretty things to buy and wear but He is the epitome of beauty. In fact, He defines all beauty and all worth. I am again astounded at how He has blessed me and I am excited to see what He has in store for us. I purpose in my heart to serve Him well and trust Him with the days ahead.

What will I wear? Well, you can bet it will come from the boutique at A Total Change !

 

Happy, happy, happy...

Phil Robertson has made that phrase famous. With no trace of a smile, sunglass shaded eyes, and bearded face, he doesn’t necessarily look it as he talks about happy, happy, happy.

That was not the case these last two days. At my mother’s request, every one of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren gathered to celebrate her birthday. My brother took up the baton to carry out her wishes and hosted the event as well as cranking up his outdoor kitchen and doing some pretty awesome cooking.

My parents were happy, happy, happy and you could see it on their faces. My dad passed around a notebook to get a guest list and posed and re-posted for photographs without one complaint. Their eldest daughter was pretty happy herself since all my chicks were there.
“Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children” (Prov. 17:6 NIV)




I went obediently (and reluctantly), to many a family reunion, being introduced to people I didn’t recognize, wondering why my parents wanted somebody to know who I was. I am beginning to understand that concept. Yesterday, I looked on as my own children and grandchildren mingled with relatives they barely knew and I watched my parents enjoying a visible legacy they will leave behind. I’m part of that legacy. Even now I know that my children watch me in that same way as I enjoy seeing my own legacy, all of them in the nest again at the same time. Those opportunities become more and more rare.

Kerry and I sing the song about a family circle. “Will the circle be unbroken..?” I purpose that the circle of my family never be broken. I purpose that we are bound together with love and wonderful memories. But more than that, I pray that each one will intimately and personally know the risen Jesus as Lord and as Savior. THAT can never be broken. And THAT is what makes this girl happy, happy, happy.

The parties are great, the food delicious, but it comes to an end. The visits are heart warming and precious, but the visits end. There will come an end to all that is on this side of eternity, and when it does, all those who know Him as Savior will step into the other side of eternity to know the happiness that brother Phil preaches about. An eternal happy, happy, happy.

I will be there.

Need a little help here....

My man is prone to say that when he needs me to hold the flashlight, pump the grease gun, or some other chore that he can‘t do with just two hands. I know the feeling, I often find myself with more than I can do. It is hard for me to ask for help, but I do it sometimes and I am certainly grateful for those who come to my rescue and bail me out of a tight when I too need a little help. I have joked for years about being old and tired. It becomes less of a joke with each passing year. (Well, with each passing day even!)

When I need help at work, I look around to see who might fill that need. Sometimes there is someone. Often, there is not. Everyone else is as busy as I am ( even if they aren’t as old or as tired, they are still busy).

As usual, after I look everywhere else, I begin to tell God, “I need help, will You send someone? Or will You show me how to manage in another way.”


“ I look up to the mountains; does my strength come from mountains? No, my strength comes from GOD, who made heaven, and earth, and mountains.” (Ps. 121:2 The Message)

The perfect salon assistant may come along tomorrow, but that won’t solve my situation. I need help in far more ways than somebody to shampoo, answer phones, and manage a salon and boutique. I need a divine Helper Who keeps me focused on what my purpose really is, One Who reminds me of what the main thing is. “One who will not allow my foot to slip; Who will …neither slumber nor sleep….One who be shade on my right hand…Who will protect me from all evil….One Who will keep my soul….Who will… guard my going out and my coming in…from this time forth and forever. (Ps. 121:4-8 personalized by me)



“I have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure…” (Hebrews 6:19 personalized by me) 

Hallelujah.

Running on fumes...

My man fusses at me because I let my gas tank get too close to empty. He ‘tops off’ his tank often, it rarely ever sees the half-full mark. Mine sees that red ‘Empty’ on a regular basis. In fact, I’m apt to hear the bing and see the flashing light of the low fuel alarm.

It occurs to me that I do the same thing with my spiritual fuel tank. More than once I have found myself stranded in the middle of life, unable to go further. Having been speeding right along, suddenly things sputter and jerk to a stop. Perhaps I need to begin buying gas more often as a reminder to keep my spiritual fuel tank full. Perhaps I need to stop running on fumes.

I know in my head that “My help comes from the Lord” (Ps. 121:2 NASB). I know that like the disciples, I should be “continually filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 13:52 NASB). But somehow I begin to be my own help and I stop filling up, choosing instead to just use and use and use. Why should I be surprised when I find myself used up?



“And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit..” (Ephesians 5:18 NASB). The original word that is translated ‘be filled’ in this passage means the same thing as ‘top off’ means to my sweet and wise husband. It means to cram as much in as you can cram. It means to fill up level full.


I purpose to do whatever it takes to keep my tank from running low. I purpose to stop running on fumes.