Dear friends, carefully build ourselves up in this most holy faith by praying in the Holy Spirit, staying right at the center of God’s love, keeping your arms open and outstretched, ready for the mercy of our Master, Jesus Christ. This is the unending life, the real life! Jude 1:20-21
Well, my reality lately has been way too busy and way too stressed. I apologize for not blogging sooner. November hit me like a ton of bricks. Thankfully, the Angel Touch Memorial Service was beautiful (thanks to our speakers and singers). And I made it through the toughest week of my life at Impact Rehab (I had 21 on the schedule last Wednesday…just for me!). December has just begun and my calendar is already filling up. I am having trouble enjoying each day since I am so worried about getting things done for the next day!
The good news is Jesus has come! Unlike the reality shown by the media, I know that Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of my King. I don’t need to have a home decorated like Better Homes and Gardens (I mean, who does?). I don’t need to buy the most expensive and cutting edge presents for my family though the commercials think I do. I certainly don’t need to make every moment a lasting memory like the advertisements pressure you to do. The reason that our favorite childhood memories stick is not because someone took a crazy amount of time to create them. We love them because they include people who cared about us and traditions that were fun. We see people in magazines having fancy parties or elaborate meals on Christmas day, but I remember listening to records just as a family while we decorated the tree. My favorite meals were potluck because I got to try so many kinds of desserts!
The author is right that you really have to be careful what you believe these days. Everything can be deceiving. People even pride themselves in this kind of advertisement. And no one’s life is like the movies…even if they star in them. I mean, how many actors are in rehab or kill themselves? As we already know, they are no happier than we are. And though they may not have the struggles that we do (screaming children all day, trying to find something to cook for dinner, attempting to fit exercise in) they have their own issues. And most of them don’t have Jesus to turn to. He tells us to cast our cares on Him because He cares for us. Now that is reality. The truth is that Jesus came to earth as a baby so many years ago. He lived a perfect life and yet was crucified for our stupid choices…some because we bought into lies that were told through media, co-workers, even family. Don’t buy into the false reality that Christmas is about gifts and cookies and parties. Decide now to only do things that bring you and your family true joy this year. Show your children the true meaning of Christmas and watch as everything else just falls into place!
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Quality Time
We pray that you’ll live well for the Master, making him proud of you as you work hard in his orchard. As you learn more and more how God works, you’ll learn how to do your work. We pray that you’ll have the strength to stick it over the long haul – not the grim strength of gritting your teeth but the glory-strength God gives. It is strength that endures the unendurable and spills over into joy, thanking the Father who makes us strong enough to take part in everything bright and beautiful that he has for us. Colossians 1:10-12
At the end of each day, week or month, I find myself asking where does the time go?! My grandmother always said that the older you get the faster the time goes, and I find that so true. Perhaps it’s the addition of children… or just the demands that we, as mothers, put on ourselves… but the days just fly bye!
We all are given the same 24 hours in each day, and as the author notes, God gives us that time and asks us to use it well, by bringing Him glory. How do you bring God glory during each day? The challenge is to spend quality time with those we love – God, our spouses, children, and families. I know that I struggle with juggling daily activities and spending quality time with those I love. Recently, I’ve put off the extras brought on by technology – returning emails in a timely manner, blogging, posting photos, etc to spend more time with my children.
After reading this reflection, I talked to my husband about trying a family fun night on Wednesdays. We will have a simple dinner and then just spend time sitting on the floor playing with the kids. We tried this Wed. but time got away from us… so we agreed to have family fun night we have to bring in pizza!
Also, I truly cherish my time at night before putting the baby to bed. I now look forward to nursing her every night at 8pm and then just cuddling her after she falls asleep. Before I used to rush to put her in bed so I could get online but I now I enjoy my time with her, unwind, and then head to bed myself. That precious time with my baby girl is our quality time together.
I think all moms agree that quality time is vital to the development of our children and the bond of our family. How do you spend quality time with your kids? How can spend more time with them? I am always open to learning from other moms – especially with two or more kids. How do you juggle the day’s activities and make time for the ones you love – God, your spouse, children, and families? This week try to set aside 10 minutes each night to have one on one time with your children.
At the end of each day, week or month, I find myself asking where does the time go?! My grandmother always said that the older you get the faster the time goes, and I find that so true. Perhaps it’s the addition of children… or just the demands that we, as mothers, put on ourselves… but the days just fly bye!
We all are given the same 24 hours in each day, and as the author notes, God gives us that time and asks us to use it well, by bringing Him glory. How do you bring God glory during each day? The challenge is to spend quality time with those we love – God, our spouses, children, and families. I know that I struggle with juggling daily activities and spending quality time with those I love. Recently, I’ve put off the extras brought on by technology – returning emails in a timely manner, blogging, posting photos, etc to spend more time with my children.
After reading this reflection, I talked to my husband about trying a family fun night on Wednesdays. We will have a simple dinner and then just spend time sitting on the floor playing with the kids. We tried this Wed. but time got away from us… so we agreed to have family fun night we have to bring in pizza!
Also, I truly cherish my time at night before putting the baby to bed. I now look forward to nursing her every night at 8pm and then just cuddling her after she falls asleep. Before I used to rush to put her in bed so I could get online but I now I enjoy my time with her, unwind, and then head to bed myself. That precious time with my baby girl is our quality time together.
I think all moms agree that quality time is vital to the development of our children and the bond of our family. How do you spend quality time with your kids? How can spend more time with them? I am always open to learning from other moms – especially with two or more kids. How do you juggle the day’s activities and make time for the ones you love – God, your spouse, children, and families? This week try to set aside 10 minutes each night to have one on one time with your children.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Pride
“Pride lands you flat on your face; humility prepares you for honors.” Proverbs 29:23
The author speaks about how pride was probably the culprit in Eve's decision to eat the apple. Must we bring up Eve again? Poor Eve—she is blamed for everything that is wrong with our world. If it hadn’t been for her we would all be hanging out in the garden with God at this very moment.
If you believe that then you definitely need to check on your pride. I truly believe that if Eve hadn’t done something stupid, someone else would have. I most certainly have done some pretty bad things that would have gotten me kicked out of the garden. I have been so disrespectful to God…I daily put myself before Him. And that is a form of pride. I disagree with the author who says that pride in your heritage or your football team is not destructive. Any form of pride in anything can be destructive. For example, I love my new house. I want it to be perfect. I want pretty curtains and more furniture and more storage and beautiful decorations. But when I bought this house I knew that God wanted me to use this extra space for Him. While sitting in church I had great thoughts of having Bible studies here and a playgroup for Parker’s friends where they would learn about the Bible. But my pride in making my house perfect kept me from doing these things for the first 6 months or so. I wanted people to see my house after completion and think I had it all together. But God doesn’t care. He can use an empty room or yard. I am now working on inviting people over to my house weekly, whether it is clean or not! Talk about swallowing your pride!
But God rewards us for humbling ourselves and swallowing that pride. Again I disagree with the author here. He may not give trophies, but we will receive crowns if He is pleased with us. “Well done my good and faithful servant.” Oh, how I long to hear those words. As the author suggests, take a look at a handful of things that make you proud (like accomplishments, possessions, abilities, etc). Are you honoring God with them and giving Him the glory? Or like me, do you starve for the attention that those things can give you. I pray that we can all use our gifts from God to gain attention only for Him and at the same time receive His adoring attention for a job well done.
The author speaks about how pride was probably the culprit in Eve's decision to eat the apple. Must we bring up Eve again? Poor Eve—she is blamed for everything that is wrong with our world. If it hadn’t been for her we would all be hanging out in the garden with God at this very moment.
If you believe that then you definitely need to check on your pride. I truly believe that if Eve hadn’t done something stupid, someone else would have. I most certainly have done some pretty bad things that would have gotten me kicked out of the garden. I have been so disrespectful to God…I daily put myself before Him. And that is a form of pride. I disagree with the author who says that pride in your heritage or your football team is not destructive. Any form of pride in anything can be destructive. For example, I love my new house. I want it to be perfect. I want pretty curtains and more furniture and more storage and beautiful decorations. But when I bought this house I knew that God wanted me to use this extra space for Him. While sitting in church I had great thoughts of having Bible studies here and a playgroup for Parker’s friends where they would learn about the Bible. But my pride in making my house perfect kept me from doing these things for the first 6 months or so. I wanted people to see my house after completion and think I had it all together. But God doesn’t care. He can use an empty room or yard. I am now working on inviting people over to my house weekly, whether it is clean or not! Talk about swallowing your pride!
But God rewards us for humbling ourselves and swallowing that pride. Again I disagree with the author here. He may not give trophies, but we will receive crowns if He is pleased with us. “Well done my good and faithful servant.” Oh, how I long to hear those words. As the author suggests, take a look at a handful of things that make you proud (like accomplishments, possessions, abilities, etc). Are you honoring God with them and giving Him the glory? Or like me, do you starve for the attention that those things can give you. I pray that we can all use our gifts from God to gain attention only for Him and at the same time receive His adoring attention for a job well done.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Personality
“Know this: GOD is God and God, GOD. He made us; we didn’t make Him. We’re His people, His well-tended sheep.” Psalm 100:3
Real quick, NIV says, “Know that the Lord is God.” That makes more sense to me! I just couldn’t get past this translation, so you may also want to look it up if you have a version you are more comfortable with.
But we are talking about personality. I have been told that I have a strong personality…whatever that means. I do tend to put myself out there which can lead to quick friends or not so much when people make snap judgments instead of getting to know me. I think I am also guilty of that. I often have patients who come in with multiple aches and pains, lots of diagnoses, and a pain scale of 10 out of 10 at all times. I often dismiss them as someone who doesn’t really want to work hard in therapy and get better. Unfortunately, I have been right and that is what fuels my stereotyping. But I have also been wrong. I wish I could just refrain from making those judgments anyway. It is true that different personalities will respond to circumstances differently. But you can help to shape that response.
I think the author is simply encouraging us to spend some time working with the personalities of our family members instead of against them. For example, Parker has a lot of energy. He is loud and already likes to make people laugh. My urge is always to quiet him down as he entertains the couple next to us, but I don’t need to necessarily squelch his act. He finds joy in entertaining others. My challenge is to find ways to focus that energy into fun that is less annoying for those around us. I am definitely going to start working on that.
As for getting the personalities of your family to work together, I also have some work to do there. I am having a lot of difficulty following the author’s advice to pick a food, spice, or cooking ingredient that describes each person. But I do want us all to cook up well in one pot. Over the next few days I will try to see how we tend to react toward each other’s personalities and find ways for us to get along better. The author also made the comment that by the time you have switched gears for the personalities of your kids, you refuse to do so for your husband. This is a mistake I make too often. I really need to take some time to think about Daryl’s personality and how I can respond to him better…when he is frustrated over a dirty house, when he makes fun of me for something I messed up…I often overreact with anger toward him because of his tone or words. Maybe it is just part of his personality, not meant to hurt my feelings.
Okay, so not the most helpful info from me. I really haven’t spent much time on this subject, but maybe I should. Good luck on your quest to figure all of this out!
Real quick, NIV says, “Know that the Lord is God.” That makes more sense to me! I just couldn’t get past this translation, so you may also want to look it up if you have a version you are more comfortable with.
But we are talking about personality. I have been told that I have a strong personality…whatever that means. I do tend to put myself out there which can lead to quick friends or not so much when people make snap judgments instead of getting to know me. I think I am also guilty of that. I often have patients who come in with multiple aches and pains, lots of diagnoses, and a pain scale of 10 out of 10 at all times. I often dismiss them as someone who doesn’t really want to work hard in therapy and get better. Unfortunately, I have been right and that is what fuels my stereotyping. But I have also been wrong. I wish I could just refrain from making those judgments anyway. It is true that different personalities will respond to circumstances differently. But you can help to shape that response.
I think the author is simply encouraging us to spend some time working with the personalities of our family members instead of against them. For example, Parker has a lot of energy. He is loud and already likes to make people laugh. My urge is always to quiet him down as he entertains the couple next to us, but I don’t need to necessarily squelch his act. He finds joy in entertaining others. My challenge is to find ways to focus that energy into fun that is less annoying for those around us. I am definitely going to start working on that.
As for getting the personalities of your family to work together, I also have some work to do there. I am having a lot of difficulty following the author’s advice to pick a food, spice, or cooking ingredient that describes each person. But I do want us all to cook up well in one pot. Over the next few days I will try to see how we tend to react toward each other’s personalities and find ways for us to get along better. The author also made the comment that by the time you have switched gears for the personalities of your kids, you refuse to do so for your husband. This is a mistake I make too often. I really need to take some time to think about Daryl’s personality and how I can respond to him better…when he is frustrated over a dirty house, when he makes fun of me for something I messed up…I often overreact with anger toward him because of his tone or words. Maybe it is just part of his personality, not meant to hurt my feelings.
Okay, so not the most helpful info from me. I really haven’t spent much time on this subject, but maybe I should. Good luck on your quest to figure all of this out!
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Peace
“Run away from infantile indulgence. Run after mature righteousness—faith, love, peace—joining those who are in honest and serious prayer before God. Refuse to get involved in inane discussions; they always end up in fights. God’s servant must not be argumentative, but a gentle listener and a teacher who keeps cool, working firmly but patiently with those who refuse to obey. You never know how or when God might sober them up with a change of heart and a turning to the truth, enabling them to escape the Devil’s trap, where they are caught and held captive, forced to run his errands.” 2 Timothy 2:22-26
I typically feel like the scripture version that the author uses is pretty clear…not so much today. I went to the NIV, my trusted choice to understand a little better. First, it tells you to “Flee the evil desires of youth…” When I think of the terrible choices which led to such chaos in my life during high school and college, this verse makes total sense. It is scientifically proven that the portion of your brain that makes choices has not matured during your youth. Teens and young adults make quick decisions without realizing the consequences; I know I did. If you are still refusing to make informed decisions, you may still feel like life is out of control. Sure, you need to have some spontaneity, but don’t neglect common sense! I definitely have days that seem to spin toward insanity, but I am now aware that it was my lack of judgment that got me there. I thank God often that He has given me a peace about my choices as I have matured. I am not great at it, but I am pursuing “righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
“Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels.” Do you remember when you were in high school and you were always fighting with someone…a boyfriend, that mean girl, always your parents, and sometimes even your best friend. Thankfully most of us have outgrown that but again the verse makes sense. Think about the last fight you had with your husband. It may have been serious but more than likely it started out as something stupid. It escalated quickly and then you weren’t even talking to each other. That is what Paul is saying here. If you don’t start on the little stuff, you won’t get into the big stuff. I need a dose of my own advice here. Sometimes I feel like I am looking at myself from the inside. Why can’t I just stop nagging? Is it really that important? I need to just shut up sometimes and give my husband some peace! Something for us all to think about…
“And the Lord’s servant must not quarrel; instead he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Those who oppose him he must gently instruct…” So basically, if you are always complaining and arguing, no one is going to listen to you. God has called us to spread His message, but we can’t do that if we are being hateful to others. Do you know anyone who is pessimistic? Nothing ever goes right for them and everyone is out to get them. That was me for a while. And I had no peace during that time. I think I’ve mentioned before when I hated my job and felt like I would never be who I wanted to be. I was actually trying to participate in Bible Studies at that time. I mean, who wanted to hear me tell them how to be a great Christian when I seemed to hate my Christian life? If we are not being kind and we stay resentful, we are not able to teach others about the amazing things God has done. Don’t you want to hear the Good News from someone who seems to always be sharing good news? I do. And when people disagree, we need to “gently instruct” them. Let the Holy Spirit do the work. As the scripture says, God is the one who will “grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth.” We can only show them the peace that God has given us. You also want to keep all of this in mind when you are dealing with your kids. Peace at home is a wonderful thing. I grew up with 2 brothers and we fought all the time. I think I will begin praying now for Parker to get along with his new sibling!
And by the way, have a great weekend as college football kicks off! Go Troy and Roll Tide!
I typically feel like the scripture version that the author uses is pretty clear…not so much today. I went to the NIV, my trusted choice to understand a little better. First, it tells you to “Flee the evil desires of youth…” When I think of the terrible choices which led to such chaos in my life during high school and college, this verse makes total sense. It is scientifically proven that the portion of your brain that makes choices has not matured during your youth. Teens and young adults make quick decisions without realizing the consequences; I know I did. If you are still refusing to make informed decisions, you may still feel like life is out of control. Sure, you need to have some spontaneity, but don’t neglect common sense! I definitely have days that seem to spin toward insanity, but I am now aware that it was my lack of judgment that got me there. I thank God often that He has given me a peace about my choices as I have matured. I am not great at it, but I am pursuing “righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
“Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels.” Do you remember when you were in high school and you were always fighting with someone…a boyfriend, that mean girl, always your parents, and sometimes even your best friend. Thankfully most of us have outgrown that but again the verse makes sense. Think about the last fight you had with your husband. It may have been serious but more than likely it started out as something stupid. It escalated quickly and then you weren’t even talking to each other. That is what Paul is saying here. If you don’t start on the little stuff, you won’t get into the big stuff. I need a dose of my own advice here. Sometimes I feel like I am looking at myself from the inside. Why can’t I just stop nagging? Is it really that important? I need to just shut up sometimes and give my husband some peace! Something for us all to think about…
“And the Lord’s servant must not quarrel; instead he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Those who oppose him he must gently instruct…” So basically, if you are always complaining and arguing, no one is going to listen to you. God has called us to spread His message, but we can’t do that if we are being hateful to others. Do you know anyone who is pessimistic? Nothing ever goes right for them and everyone is out to get them. That was me for a while. And I had no peace during that time. I think I’ve mentioned before when I hated my job and felt like I would never be who I wanted to be. I was actually trying to participate in Bible Studies at that time. I mean, who wanted to hear me tell them how to be a great Christian when I seemed to hate my Christian life? If we are not being kind and we stay resentful, we are not able to teach others about the amazing things God has done. Don’t you want to hear the Good News from someone who seems to always be sharing good news? I do. And when people disagree, we need to “gently instruct” them. Let the Holy Spirit do the work. As the scripture says, God is the one who will “grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth.” We can only show them the peace that God has given us. You also want to keep all of this in mind when you are dealing with your kids. Peace at home is a wonderful thing. I grew up with 2 brothers and we fought all the time. I think I will begin praying now for Parker to get along with his new sibling!
And by the way, have a great weekend as college football kicks off! Go Troy and Roll Tide!
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Past
Where is the god who can compare with you - wiping the slate clean of guilt, turning a blind eye, a deaf ear, to the past sins of your purged and precious people? You don't nurse your anger and don't stay angry for long, for mercy is your specialty. That's what you love most. And compassion is on its way to us. You'll stamp our your wrongdoing. You'll sink our sins to the bottom of the ocean. You'll stay true to your word to Father Jacob and continue the compassion you showed to Grandfather Abraham - everything you promised our ancestors from a long time ago. - Micah 7:18-20
How do you view your past? The author notes that sometimes we look at our past as more of a "book to be locked away than a chapter to be included in our life story." When I think of my past I immediately think of my college days and then a few childhood memories. I know that there is so much more to my life but those times must have molded me the most. There are events at both those times in my life (childhood and college) that I am proud of and others that I'm not so proud of... I think the most important thing about my past is that I learned from it and have come to be a stronger, more faith-filled woman. As the reflection mentioned, the bible tells us to press on and forget what lies behind us - rather keep our eyes fixated on having a home in heaven.
In also thinking about my past, I must say that I love learning about the past of my family. I have had many cherished conversations with my grandmother about her past and her family memories. She has much to tell as she has 11 siblings and 7 children (whenever I feel overwhelmed with two kiddos I ask myself how she did it). She has told me stories of her childhood, good times with her cousins, and fond memories of raising her children and now cherishes spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. What's admirable about my grandmother and godmother, who we call Memere, is that through it all she has remainded steadfast in her faith and has attended weekly mass for as long as I can remember.
She is a beautiful example of how to remember your past, share those memories (both good and bad), and keep moving forward toward the good Lord and the home of heaven... although being a young 72 I am hopeful that she has a good 30 years let with us here. I thank her for contributing amazing memories to my past... although long gone are the days of our shopping trips (and getting lost) and ice cream sundaes (right before dinner) the memories of our past are always alive in my heart. Now we spend time together with my children so they too will have a past filled with memories of their great grandmother.
If you have a minute, please share with us a great story from your past...
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Overwhelmed
“God can do anything you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.” Ephesians 3:20-21
Okay, so actually, I was a bit overwhelmed last week and that is why you are just getting my entry! I had a great time hanging out with my friends, Jennifer, Jen’s mom, Hayden, and Eve as Jennifer came from way up North for a wedding. I need to apologize to them, though. I barely made it there because I was coming straight from seeing a strong heartbeat on an ultrasound. Daryl and I are having another baby! I had not told my family yet, so I am just now spilling the beans!
I totally don’t feel prepared for another child. I am really overwhelmed at the thought of it! But we trusted God to bless us with another child only if we were ready. Six months later we conceived! I just finished my psalm which included informing God of my failures as a mom…my house is a wreck, haven’t finished the laundry I started on Tuesday, don’t have a clue what to make Parker for dinner, and I am behind on this blog…just to name a few. How will I do this with another child needing my attention? I need to ask God for help. What an amazing revelation from the author. I ask Him for help when someone is sick or a major catastrophe has happened, but I tend to forget Him in everyday tasks. He has promised to always be with me, even when I am dusting or picking up toys, again.
He wants us to call His name when we are weary and overwhelmed. He has promised to give us rest. He even says He will carry our yokes when we just can’t do it anymore. So why doesn’t this come to mind when I am stressing? I have a Women’s Ministry Kick-off tonight so I know this stuff won’t get done. I am nauseous, tired, hungry, and nothing sounds good to eat. So, I sat down to blog. I am realizing that it won’t all get done. My husband will probably not be happy that the house is still a mess, but I needed this week’s message. I am only one person. Truthfully, I am only one person with only one purpose—to glorify God. If I am doing that then everything else will be okay. I will find time for it. It can wait until next week. I am not alone in this struggle. We are all there. Maybe today is a bad day and tomorrow will be better. Maybe it will be a bad week. But I will praise God for giving me a beautiful home to clean, a sweet child to feed, and plenty of clothes to fold. And I will ask Him for help to get it all done!
Okay, so actually, I was a bit overwhelmed last week and that is why you are just getting my entry! I had a great time hanging out with my friends, Jennifer, Jen’s mom, Hayden, and Eve as Jennifer came from way up North for a wedding. I need to apologize to them, though. I barely made it there because I was coming straight from seeing a strong heartbeat on an ultrasound. Daryl and I are having another baby! I had not told my family yet, so I am just now spilling the beans!
I totally don’t feel prepared for another child. I am really overwhelmed at the thought of it! But we trusted God to bless us with another child only if we were ready. Six months later we conceived! I just finished my psalm which included informing God of my failures as a mom…my house is a wreck, haven’t finished the laundry I started on Tuesday, don’t have a clue what to make Parker for dinner, and I am behind on this blog…just to name a few. How will I do this with another child needing my attention? I need to ask God for help. What an amazing revelation from the author. I ask Him for help when someone is sick or a major catastrophe has happened, but I tend to forget Him in everyday tasks. He has promised to always be with me, even when I am dusting or picking up toys, again.
He wants us to call His name when we are weary and overwhelmed. He has promised to give us rest. He even says He will carry our yokes when we just can’t do it anymore. So why doesn’t this come to mind when I am stressing? I have a Women’s Ministry Kick-off tonight so I know this stuff won’t get done. I am nauseous, tired, hungry, and nothing sounds good to eat. So, I sat down to blog. I am realizing that it won’t all get done. My husband will probably not be happy that the house is still a mess, but I needed this week’s message. I am only one person. Truthfully, I am only one person with only one purpose—to glorify God. If I am doing that then everything else will be okay. I will find time for it. It can wait until next week. I am not alone in this struggle. We are all there. Maybe today is a bad day and tomorrow will be better. Maybe it will be a bad week. But I will praise God for giving me a beautiful home to clean, a sweet child to feed, and plenty of clothes to fold. And I will ask Him for help to get it all done!
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Opportunities
Dear, dear Corinthians, I can’t tell you how much I long for you to enter this wide-open, spacious life. We didn’t fence you in. The smallness you feel comes from within you. Your lives aren’t small, but you’re living them in a small way. I’m speaking as plainly as I can and with great affection. Open up your lives. Live openly and expansively. 2 Corinthians 6:11-12
“…God wants you to stay open and alert to opportunities to grow as a wife, mom, friend, worker, or all of the above.” This sentence nicely sums up the reflection. The opportunities that God surrounds us with are endless. What opportunities do you seek for spiritual growth? For me, this blog has been an opportunity to grow in my faith. It is one thing to read and reflect inward or to attend church and contemplate the homily/sermon, yet it’s another to actually verbalize those reflections and be open to feedback from others.
Contributing to this blog has also been an opportunity for me to strengthen my friendship with Heather. I’ve learned so much about her through her postings and have been guided by her thoughts and her relationship with Jesus. There have been so many instances that I have used her suggestions to strengthen my relationship with my husband or children.
This week I challenge you to be open to the opportunities that God puts in front of you each day. For example, my daughter slept in the other morning (because she was up half the night). Her extra time in bed provided me the opportunity for much needed one-on-one time with my son. It was such a treat for me (and for him) to have that time together. Instead of cleaning up the house or folding laundry, I took that time as an opportunity to give him my undivided attention.
The reflection also mentioned that we should look for an opportunity in everything we do. If you are stuck at a red light, look at that time as an opportunity to pray. If you or a friend received bad news, look at it as an opportunity to turn to God for strength and guidance during a difficult time. Each morning when you get out of bed and put your feet on the floor, get excited about the endless opportunities that wait for you.
“…God wants you to stay open and alert to opportunities to grow as a wife, mom, friend, worker, or all of the above.” This sentence nicely sums up the reflection. The opportunities that God surrounds us with are endless. What opportunities do you seek for spiritual growth? For me, this blog has been an opportunity to grow in my faith. It is one thing to read and reflect inward or to attend church and contemplate the homily/sermon, yet it’s another to actually verbalize those reflections and be open to feedback from others.
Contributing to this blog has also been an opportunity for me to strengthen my friendship with Heather. I’ve learned so much about her through her postings and have been guided by her thoughts and her relationship with Jesus. There have been so many instances that I have used her suggestions to strengthen my relationship with my husband or children.
This week I challenge you to be open to the opportunities that God puts in front of you each day. For example, my daughter slept in the other morning (because she was up half the night). Her extra time in bed provided me the opportunity for much needed one-on-one time with my son. It was such a treat for me (and for him) to have that time together. Instead of cleaning up the house or folding laundry, I took that time as an opportunity to give him my undivided attention.
The reflection also mentioned that we should look for an opportunity in everything we do. If you are stuck at a red light, look at that time as an opportunity to pray. If you or a friend received bad news, look at it as an opportunity to turn to God for strength and guidance during a difficult time. Each morning when you get out of bed and put your feet on the floor, get excited about the endless opportunities that wait for you.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Nutrition
Learn to appreciate and give dignity to your body, not abusing it, as is so common among those who know nothing of God. 1 Thessalonians 4:4-5
I have seriously been fighting this battle since middle school. I love to eat. I love to eat everything-healthy, unhealthy, tall, dark, and buttery. I have a major love affair with food. I enjoy cooking from Paula Deen’s cookbooks or making some of the desserts I am known for. Before I got pregnant with Parker I began to decrease my portions and cut down on sweets, but my choices were still not great. Then I saw that little positive sign. Suddenly, I wanted to eat veggies at every meal. I actually ate an apple a day. I still splurged some, but I had never been so conscious of my eating decisions. I once ordered a side of collard greens with my pancakes at Cracker Barrel because I felt bad for just eating a syrup-covered stack of flapjacks. I continued this during breastfeeding, but now a year removed, I find myself back in my old habits. I eat too much fast food or simply what is in the fridge.
Our nation is ridiculous, and we aren’t slowing down. Our kids run the risk of being hospitalized for obesity related orders before we even have the chance to get stuck in a nursing home for old age. It is just too easy to grab a pre-packaged meal or stop by Taco Bell. These things aren’t terrible in moderation. I think it should be a treat instead of the norm, though. At barely 2, Parker is already asking to go to “Chicken-il-A”. That is a wake-up call. Thankfully, tonight he feasted on chicken, cheesy cauliflower, and sweet peas. None of these were fresh from the farm, but I am working on it. I need to change my mindset from “what is easy” to “what is better for my family”. But it will take work. We are overwhelmed with ads that sell us on what is “great for the family on the go”. But what happened to homemade sit-down suppers. Last week, I cooked 2 of them. I went shopping today, but have to start planning menus instead of just buying random groceries.
The plan is to work my way through cookbooks and maybe join Grow Alabama, a service that delivers fresh, local fruits and vegetables. Daryl’s cholesterol is high, and he has a family history of heart attacks. He likes everything fried or covered with cheese. My history isn’t so great either. But Moms, we are in charge (for the most part) of what is purchased, cooked, and eaten in our house. I was so glad nutrition was the topic this week. I have to take charge of my family’s health. Please join me in taking back the supper table and helping your kids learn to make good food decisions, too!
I have seriously been fighting this battle since middle school. I love to eat. I love to eat everything-healthy, unhealthy, tall, dark, and buttery. I have a major love affair with food. I enjoy cooking from Paula Deen’s cookbooks or making some of the desserts I am known for. Before I got pregnant with Parker I began to decrease my portions and cut down on sweets, but my choices were still not great. Then I saw that little positive sign. Suddenly, I wanted to eat veggies at every meal. I actually ate an apple a day. I still splurged some, but I had never been so conscious of my eating decisions. I once ordered a side of collard greens with my pancakes at Cracker Barrel because I felt bad for just eating a syrup-covered stack of flapjacks. I continued this during breastfeeding, but now a year removed, I find myself back in my old habits. I eat too much fast food or simply what is in the fridge.
Our nation is ridiculous, and we aren’t slowing down. Our kids run the risk of being hospitalized for obesity related orders before we even have the chance to get stuck in a nursing home for old age. It is just too easy to grab a pre-packaged meal or stop by Taco Bell. These things aren’t terrible in moderation. I think it should be a treat instead of the norm, though. At barely 2, Parker is already asking to go to “Chicken-il-A”. That is a wake-up call. Thankfully, tonight he feasted on chicken, cheesy cauliflower, and sweet peas. None of these were fresh from the farm, but I am working on it. I need to change my mindset from “what is easy” to “what is better for my family”. But it will take work. We are overwhelmed with ads that sell us on what is “great for the family on the go”. But what happened to homemade sit-down suppers. Last week, I cooked 2 of them. I went shopping today, but have to start planning menus instead of just buying random groceries.
The plan is to work my way through cookbooks and maybe join Grow Alabama, a service that delivers fresh, local fruits and vegetables. Daryl’s cholesterol is high, and he has a family history of heart attacks. He likes everything fried or covered with cheese. My history isn’t so great either. But Moms, we are in charge (for the most part) of what is purchased, cooked, and eaten in our house. I was so glad nutrition was the topic this week. I have to take charge of my family’s health. Please join me in taking back the supper table and helping your kids learn to make good food decisions, too!
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
“It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, He had His eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose He is working out in everything and everyone.” Ephesians 1:11-12
Okay, so I’m going to take a different spin on this. I am completely behind the author’s encouragement to say no, but I also want to encourage you to say yes. I believe that we don’t really even think about what our child is asking for. We just throw out a no instead of being bothered with them. Then when they pester us enough to listen to their request, we realize it wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world if we said yes. And so we do. But as the author implies, we are slowly decreasing the value of our no’s. So, next time your child says, “Mom, can I go play in those puddles” or stomps right on into them, think about it. Do you have a change of clothes? Could they ride home in their diaper or undies? If so, then say yes! If not, then say no and stick to it.
This is really working well at our house. Though my child is far from listening when I say no, I have been able to decrease the no’s so that he does listen to them more often. I had gotten to the point where I felt like I said no and dished out spankings over and over again. So now I think about it. (Parker has even picked up on my umm’s. I’ll ask him if he wants cookies or crackers and he’ll say, umm…too cute!) But I make my decision count, and I make it final. If he disobeys, he gets a spanking. I am still in the bad habit of handing out warnings, though. “If you do that one more time I will spank you.” I need to get better on giving one command and then a spanking for disobedience. We are all works in progress as the scripture points out. Parenting is a learning process. I hope you have been able to learn from Jennifer and I as we muddle through, passing along the bits we are actually getting right…after much trial and error.
On another note, I just want to praise God for our soldiers who are currently serving on active duty, those who are veterans, and those who have given their lives so that I may sit by the lake and eat barbecue this weekend. We are so amazingly blessed to have these men and women who love us enough to lay down their lives. We are even more blessed to have a Savior who did the same. Happy 4th of July!
Okay, so I’m going to take a different spin on this. I am completely behind the author’s encouragement to say no, but I also want to encourage you to say yes. I believe that we don’t really even think about what our child is asking for. We just throw out a no instead of being bothered with them. Then when they pester us enough to listen to their request, we realize it wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world if we said yes. And so we do. But as the author implies, we are slowly decreasing the value of our no’s. So, next time your child says, “Mom, can I go play in those puddles” or stomps right on into them, think about it. Do you have a change of clothes? Could they ride home in their diaper or undies? If so, then say yes! If not, then say no and stick to it.
This is really working well at our house. Though my child is far from listening when I say no, I have been able to decrease the no’s so that he does listen to them more often. I had gotten to the point where I felt like I said no and dished out spankings over and over again. So now I think about it. (Parker has even picked up on my umm’s. I’ll ask him if he wants cookies or crackers and he’ll say, umm…too cute!) But I make my decision count, and I make it final. If he disobeys, he gets a spanking. I am still in the bad habit of handing out warnings, though. “If you do that one more time I will spank you.” I need to get better on giving one command and then a spanking for disobedience. We are all works in progress as the scripture points out. Parenting is a learning process. I hope you have been able to learn from Jennifer and I as we muddle through, passing along the bits we are actually getting right…after much trial and error.
On another note, I just want to praise God for our soldiers who are currently serving on active duty, those who are veterans, and those who have given their lives so that I may sit by the lake and eat barbecue this weekend. We are so amazingly blessed to have these men and women who love us enough to lay down their lives. We are even more blessed to have a Savior who did the same. Happy 4th of July!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Mistakes
Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way. James 1:2-3
Again, I would like to extend a special thank you to Heather for continuing with the reflections while I was adjusting to life with a newborn. We welcomed Emmy into the world about three weeks ago. She’s a sweet baby girl and we are all enjoying her!
I would like to lead this reflection with the same question that was posed in the first sentence of the reading, “When was the last time that you made a mistake?” Did you need to think long and hard on that question? Doubtful. We all make mistakes each day (some days we make many more than others). We make mistakes in our personal, professional and family lives.
Let me give you a funny example of a mistake I made just before going on maternity leave. I work part time as a public relations coordinator, which means I spend most of my time writing and although I write a great deal one of my weaknesses is proofreading. Several others of much more authority proofread my work before I send it to the public. I was trying to get out an email quickly. In the body of the email, where I was mentioning the good works of our organization, I mentioned Pam’s Pantry (which provides food for those in need). I left out a letter though – and it read “Pam’s Panty.” This email was distributed to about 1,000 community members – whoops! Luckily, my colleagues made a joke of it and were very forgiving. I think I need to take a proofreading course!
Not all mistakes are a laughing matter though. Some mistakes we make may hurt others – our spouses, kids, or other family members. It’s important to know that when we do make mistakes we should ask others for forgiveness. We should also ask God for forgiveness and grant ourselves forgiveness as well. I think we, as women, tend to be hardest on ourselves. It’s important to remember that God forgives, so we must forgive ourselves. Also, we must forgive others for their mistakes.
Little did I know how many mistakes I would make as a parent (and my son is only two). Do you find yourself making mistakes as a mother? Who would know that parenting would be so challenging! I sometimes make the mistake of yelling at my son because I have lost my patience. I realize now the importance of quickly apologizing. The beauty of children is that they are so forgiving – not sure this holds true though once they are teenagers!
Lastly, I would like to mention that I find I make more mistakes when I don’t listen to my intuition. I think the female or “mother” intuition is truly a gift from God - let that intuition guide you as I believe its God working through us. Trust the Lord and trust in yourself. Forgive yourself and forgive others.
Again, I would like to extend a special thank you to Heather for continuing with the reflections while I was adjusting to life with a newborn. We welcomed Emmy into the world about three weeks ago. She’s a sweet baby girl and we are all enjoying her!
I would like to lead this reflection with the same question that was posed in the first sentence of the reading, “When was the last time that you made a mistake?” Did you need to think long and hard on that question? Doubtful. We all make mistakes each day (some days we make many more than others). We make mistakes in our personal, professional and family lives.
Let me give you a funny example of a mistake I made just before going on maternity leave. I work part time as a public relations coordinator, which means I spend most of my time writing and although I write a great deal one of my weaknesses is proofreading. Several others of much more authority proofread my work before I send it to the public. I was trying to get out an email quickly. In the body of the email, where I was mentioning the good works of our organization, I mentioned Pam’s Pantry (which provides food for those in need). I left out a letter though – and it read “Pam’s Panty.” This email was distributed to about 1,000 community members – whoops! Luckily, my colleagues made a joke of it and were very forgiving. I think I need to take a proofreading course!
Not all mistakes are a laughing matter though. Some mistakes we make may hurt others – our spouses, kids, or other family members. It’s important to know that when we do make mistakes we should ask others for forgiveness. We should also ask God for forgiveness and grant ourselves forgiveness as well. I think we, as women, tend to be hardest on ourselves. It’s important to remember that God forgives, so we must forgive ourselves. Also, we must forgive others for their mistakes.
Little did I know how many mistakes I would make as a parent (and my son is only two). Do you find yourself making mistakes as a mother? Who would know that parenting would be so challenging! I sometimes make the mistake of yelling at my son because I have lost my patience. I realize now the importance of quickly apologizing. The beauty of children is that they are so forgiving – not sure this holds true though once they are teenagers!
Lastly, I would like to mention that I find I make more mistakes when I don’t listen to my intuition. I think the female or “mother” intuition is truly a gift from God - let that intuition guide you as I believe its God working through us. Trust the Lord and trust in yourself. Forgive yourself and forgive others.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Men
God spoke: “Let us make human beings in our image, make them reflecting our nature.” Genesis 1:26
So as I near our seventh anniversary, God must be preparing me for the seven year itch. I have heard that it seems to be the time when many married couples have trouble or divorce each other. So, I have actually already heard a few messages similar to our motivational…in our sermons lately as well as in my Sunday night small group. God seems to be reminding me of the worth of men, especially my husband. And I must admit that it is info I needed to hear and that I need to have drilled into my brain. Like many of you have realized, we are in a society where the men don’t always wear the pants.
But God commanded that they wear them. Submission is such a dirty word these days, but yall, it is Biblical. God created man first to be the leader of the vegetation, the animals, and his wife. We were made as helpers. In my recent studies I have found 3 reasons why I believe I have not been submitting to my husband. First, our society has raised some very independent women. Many of us were living on our own quite successfully before we even met our husbands. Some of us have jobs and may make more than our husbands. This is not an excuse. Your husband deserves your respect, and he should be the final word. Unless he is making decisions that go against God’s will, you need to try really hard to back him up.
Second, many men are not what men used to be. Some have been okay with the woman taking over. Some have been lazy in their home life, their work life, and their spiritual life. They let their wife teach the children about Jesus instead of taking an active role in preparing them for salvation. They may not measure up to what you think deserves your respect. But God didn’t say “submit to your husbands if they deserve it.” He just said do it. And as I am learning in my study, if you give respect they will notice and the cycle will turn in a positive direction of loving words and actions. My third pathetic excuse it that I am sinful. I like having the last word. I want to be right all the time. I want to decide who, when, where, and what. But I am setting a poor example for Parker. So, my new mantra is from 1 Timothy 2:11-15. It basically tells me to be quiet and listen so I can learn. I don’t have authority over a man. Eve sinned and threw all women under the bus. Pretty crude, huh? But it also says we will be saved through childbearing. That’s another whole blog, but something to think about.
So, I know this is deep stuff and some of you may be thinking I am crazy and need to go hitch a ride on a wagon with my hoop skirt. But I am being taught this lesson over and over again lately, so I thought I would pass it along to you. I am really trying to respect my husband more. I actually listen to his ideas and take a back seat sometimes…though I have a long way to go. I would love to hear some comments on this since I know it has got you thinking!
So as I near our seventh anniversary, God must be preparing me for the seven year itch. I have heard that it seems to be the time when many married couples have trouble or divorce each other. So, I have actually already heard a few messages similar to our motivational…in our sermons lately as well as in my Sunday night small group. God seems to be reminding me of the worth of men, especially my husband. And I must admit that it is info I needed to hear and that I need to have drilled into my brain. Like many of you have realized, we are in a society where the men don’t always wear the pants.
But God commanded that they wear them. Submission is such a dirty word these days, but yall, it is Biblical. God created man first to be the leader of the vegetation, the animals, and his wife. We were made as helpers. In my recent studies I have found 3 reasons why I believe I have not been submitting to my husband. First, our society has raised some very independent women. Many of us were living on our own quite successfully before we even met our husbands. Some of us have jobs and may make more than our husbands. This is not an excuse. Your husband deserves your respect, and he should be the final word. Unless he is making decisions that go against God’s will, you need to try really hard to back him up.
Second, many men are not what men used to be. Some have been okay with the woman taking over. Some have been lazy in their home life, their work life, and their spiritual life. They let their wife teach the children about Jesus instead of taking an active role in preparing them for salvation. They may not measure up to what you think deserves your respect. But God didn’t say “submit to your husbands if they deserve it.” He just said do it. And as I am learning in my study, if you give respect they will notice and the cycle will turn in a positive direction of loving words and actions. My third pathetic excuse it that I am sinful. I like having the last word. I want to be right all the time. I want to decide who, when, where, and what. But I am setting a poor example for Parker. So, my new mantra is from 1 Timothy 2:11-15. It basically tells me to be quiet and listen so I can learn. I don’t have authority over a man. Eve sinned and threw all women under the bus. Pretty crude, huh? But it also says we will be saved through childbearing. That’s another whole blog, but something to think about.
So, I know this is deep stuff and some of you may be thinking I am crazy and need to go hitch a ride on a wagon with my hoop skirt. But I am being taught this lesson over and over again lately, so I thought I would pass it along to you. I am really trying to respect my husband more. I actually listen to his ideas and take a back seat sometimes…though I have a long way to go. I would love to hear some comments on this since I know it has got you thinking!
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Listening
“Post this at all the intersections, dear friends: Lead with your ears, follow up with your tongue, and let anger straggle along in the rear.” James 1:19
Well, that is some advice! I love to talk so I had to submit myself to this week’s blog. I have actually had lots of conversations about how much I talk…in the 6th grade my teacher called me a talking island! She said she could put me all by myself and I would still be talking. Not only did I get in trouble a lot, but imagine how much I could have learned if I had listened! I am still working on my listening instead of talking these days. My friend Amanda and I just spoke about how we both tend to be forming our next thought instead of listening when we are having a conversation.
Other people have so much to teach us. One reason little kids learn so much so quick is because they can’t talk that much. So, they just have to listen. That’s why they pick up on everything we say. Those of you with teenagers know the opposite is often true…they never pick up on anything you say because they are always talking! The first step to being a good listener is to stop talking and then you have to stop thinking about what you will say next. Instead, really focus on the words coming out of the mouth of your husband, child, etc. Actually think about what they are saying, especially if they are offering advice or giving you their point of view during an argument. Even kids deserve to be heard. Have you ever thought about asking your child why he doesn’t want to eat something or why she refuses to take a bath? It may be a silly reason, but at least they will feel like they have been given a fair chance if you listen to them before forcing them to do something they don’t want to do.
I am in the middle of a Bible Study with the book Love and Respect¬. It talks about how men want our respect more than anything. Refusing to listen to your husband is the easiest way to put him on the defensive. He will feel disrespected and then fire back with unloving words. It starts a cycle that ruins what could have been a nice conversation. Whether you are talking with (notice I said talking with, not talking to) your husband, kids, mom, etc. try to actually evaluate the words they are saying. Take your time before you respond and let them know that you value their input. I promise it can make a heated argument turn into a very productive moment. It will take some practice, but I promise you will love the outcome!
Well, that is some advice! I love to talk so I had to submit myself to this week’s blog. I have actually had lots of conversations about how much I talk…in the 6th grade my teacher called me a talking island! She said she could put me all by myself and I would still be talking. Not only did I get in trouble a lot, but imagine how much I could have learned if I had listened! I am still working on my listening instead of talking these days. My friend Amanda and I just spoke about how we both tend to be forming our next thought instead of listening when we are having a conversation.
Other people have so much to teach us. One reason little kids learn so much so quick is because they can’t talk that much. So, they just have to listen. That’s why they pick up on everything we say. Those of you with teenagers know the opposite is often true…they never pick up on anything you say because they are always talking! The first step to being a good listener is to stop talking and then you have to stop thinking about what you will say next. Instead, really focus on the words coming out of the mouth of your husband, child, etc. Actually think about what they are saying, especially if they are offering advice or giving you their point of view during an argument. Even kids deserve to be heard. Have you ever thought about asking your child why he doesn’t want to eat something or why she refuses to take a bath? It may be a silly reason, but at least they will feel like they have been given a fair chance if you listen to them before forcing them to do something they don’t want to do.
I am in the middle of a Bible Study with the book Love and Respect¬. It talks about how men want our respect more than anything. Refusing to listen to your husband is the easiest way to put him on the defensive. He will feel disrespected and then fire back with unloving words. It starts a cycle that ruins what could have been a nice conversation. Whether you are talking with (notice I said talking with, not talking to) your husband, kids, mom, etc. try to actually evaluate the words they are saying. Take your time before you respond and let them know that you value their input. I promise it can make a heated argument turn into a very productive moment. It will take some practice, but I promise you will love the outcome!
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Language
Though some tongues just love the taste of gossip, those who follow Jesus have better uses for language than that. Don't talk dirty of silly. That kind of talk doesn't fit our style. Thanksgiving is our dialect. Ephesians 5:4
Before I begin this week's reflection, I would like to express my sincere thanks to Heather, who has been posting for the past few weeks. I appreciate that Heather has continued to post while I've been dragging my feet through my last month of pregnancy and chasing my 2 year old around! Instead of having a peaceful and productive two hours while he naps on Thursdays and Fridays (and weekends), I have been napping at the same time - and usually for just as long. Thank you again Heather. I hope to get back on track even though the new baby is set to arrive any day now :)
Think of the power of language - it has the ability to bring people up or tear them down in mere seconds. How do you use your words? As the reflection mentions the good Lord wants us to put our words to better service. He wants us to use our words in thanksgiving. Imagine if all the words that we used, all the times that we speak to each other the language is that of thanksgiving.
As those of you who have young children or interact with young children know, the words of adults are often repeated (at the most inopportune times). You should speak as if your two year old is always listening and would not be embarrassed if he or she repeated what you said. It's always amazing to me how my son soaks up every word that my husband and I say... and then knows just when to use those words. I am actually proud of most of the sentences that Owen repeats. For example, my husband and I often thank each or thank Owen for doing household chores. Therefore, sometimes Owen will tell us thank you for emptying the dishwasher or thank you for getting his chocolate milk. It's nice to hear him express his thanks. Other times Owen is just silly with his words, telling me "I have to pee so bad." Ironically, he's still in diapers and can do this anytime but he hears me voicing my thoughts and happily repeats them!
Take time this week to really listen to your interactions with others including your spouse and children. Your words are so powerful. Ask God to guide you as you choose the right words to express contenment, disappointment, confusion, etc. Try to use words of thanksgiving in each interaction.
Before I begin this week's reflection, I would like to express my sincere thanks to Heather, who has been posting for the past few weeks. I appreciate that Heather has continued to post while I've been dragging my feet through my last month of pregnancy and chasing my 2 year old around! Instead of having a peaceful and productive two hours while he naps on Thursdays and Fridays (and weekends), I have been napping at the same time - and usually for just as long. Thank you again Heather. I hope to get back on track even though the new baby is set to arrive any day now :)
Think of the power of language - it has the ability to bring people up or tear them down in mere seconds. How do you use your words? As the reflection mentions the good Lord wants us to put our words to better service. He wants us to use our words in thanksgiving. Imagine if all the words that we used, all the times that we speak to each other the language is that of thanksgiving.
As those of you who have young children or interact with young children know, the words of adults are often repeated (at the most inopportune times). You should speak as if your two year old is always listening and would not be embarrassed if he or she repeated what you said. It's always amazing to me how my son soaks up every word that my husband and I say... and then knows just when to use those words. I am actually proud of most of the sentences that Owen repeats. For example, my husband and I often thank each or thank Owen for doing household chores. Therefore, sometimes Owen will tell us thank you for emptying the dishwasher or thank you for getting his chocolate milk. It's nice to hear him express his thanks. Other times Owen is just silly with his words, telling me "I have to pee so bad." Ironically, he's still in diapers and can do this anytime but he hears me voicing my thoughts and happily repeats them!
Take time this week to really listen to your interactions with others including your spouse and children. Your words are so powerful. Ask God to guide you as you choose the right words to express contenment, disappointment, confusion, etc. Try to use words of thanksgiving in each interaction.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Kindness
"So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive and offense.” Colossians 3:12-13
“Thank you ma’am.” Parker says to the man who hands him a sticker. I am beaming from ear to ear. Forget the fact that he said ma’am to a guy…he was using his manners and being kind. I know not all of our readers are from the South so I need a Northern comment to balance me out, but I love being from the South. I love to have doors opened for me and don’t mind being called ma’am by my student athletes at work. I love to show the same respect to people. I’m not trying to say you are old when I say yes ma’am or sir. I use it for everyone. I was brought up that way and I choose to raise Parker in the same manner.
But that’s not all that kindness is about. The Random Acts of Kindness or Pay It Forward movements are fantastic in my opinion. Who needs a reason to share God’s love? Teaching your children to make a conscious effort to make other people happy is what God meant by “love your neighbor.” After all, Jesus cited it as the second most important commandment for a reason…it is important to God. Many of us have trouble approaching people formally with the Gospel. But kindness takes as little or as much effort as you want to put into it.
Send an old-fashioned card to a friend for no reason…just to tell them you think they are great. Keep extra candy in your purse to offer to another child who sees your little one sucking on a yummy treat. Put a cute little note for your husband to find that reminds him why you love him. When you are finally shopping all by yourself, help the mom of 3 struggling with her groceries behind you. I love the translation above to be content with second place. So let that car out in front of you. Let someone else use the elevator while you wait. You get the picture. Kindness is not hard. It just takes a little thought. It can even become second nature if you do it enough and expect your kids to do it. So let me know if you have any good advice for instilling kindness in your little one or brightening someone else’s day yourself!
“Thank you ma’am.” Parker says to the man who hands him a sticker. I am beaming from ear to ear. Forget the fact that he said ma’am to a guy…he was using his manners and being kind. I know not all of our readers are from the South so I need a Northern comment to balance me out, but I love being from the South. I love to have doors opened for me and don’t mind being called ma’am by my student athletes at work. I love to show the same respect to people. I’m not trying to say you are old when I say yes ma’am or sir. I use it for everyone. I was brought up that way and I choose to raise Parker in the same manner.
But that’s not all that kindness is about. The Random Acts of Kindness or Pay It Forward movements are fantastic in my opinion. Who needs a reason to share God’s love? Teaching your children to make a conscious effort to make other people happy is what God meant by “love your neighbor.” After all, Jesus cited it as the second most important commandment for a reason…it is important to God. Many of us have trouble approaching people formally with the Gospel. But kindness takes as little or as much effort as you want to put into it.
Send an old-fashioned card to a friend for no reason…just to tell them you think they are great. Keep extra candy in your purse to offer to another child who sees your little one sucking on a yummy treat. Put a cute little note for your husband to find that reminds him why you love him. When you are finally shopping all by yourself, help the mom of 3 struggling with her groceries behind you. I love the translation above to be content with second place. So let that car out in front of you. Let someone else use the elevator while you wait. You get the picture. Kindness is not hard. It just takes a little thought. It can even become second nature if you do it enough and expect your kids to do it. So let me know if you have any good advice for instilling kindness in your little one or brightening someone else’s day yourself!
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Judging
“Don’t be nitpickers; use your head—and heart!—to discern what is right, to test what is authentically right.” John 7:24
Happy Mother’s Day! I hope that you each enjoyed the day and were reminded of the joy that God has given you through motherhood. I actually caught a nap today! That was after I judged which dessert looked best at the restaurant! I guess the author is right that judging has caught a bad rap. We are always told not to judge, but what about when we need to judge. Which dress looks best for the event? Which is your healthiest option at the vending machine? Is this playground too high for your little one? There are even times you need to judge other people. Should I walk alone by that crowd of men? Is it okay to let that woman hold my child? (You know you’ve had strangers ask!) Do I really trust this cab driver on this side of town?
You can’t spend your life worrying about everyone, but split judgments of character could save your life. Nitpicking, however, will not. For example, your child will never be perfect. He or she will make a scene at the store, demand to wear a superman cape or tutu to church, or flat out refuse to say hello to the nice man in line. That is when you have to choose what is important. What is shaping your child’s character? For me, I don’t mind Parker picking out something crazy to wear, but I do want him to have manners and speak when spoken to.
As for judging others, we all do it. We just need to make an effort to correct ourselves when we are judging out of jealousy or annoyance. I really wish I had beautiful hair, so I have started admiring the pretty hair around me. I once would have found something critical to think to make myself feel prettier than that person. And I am quick to say ugly things about people who do things I don’t like. I’m working on that, too. So, the next time an ugly judgment comes to mind, quickly find something nice to think about that person. If you are really ready for a challenge, say the nice thing to their face. Don’t make it sugary or over the top, though, or it will come off as fake. Especially, those of you in the South…bless your heart should not precede your compliment!
Happy Mother’s Day! I hope that you each enjoyed the day and were reminded of the joy that God has given you through motherhood. I actually caught a nap today! That was after I judged which dessert looked best at the restaurant! I guess the author is right that judging has caught a bad rap. We are always told not to judge, but what about when we need to judge. Which dress looks best for the event? Which is your healthiest option at the vending machine? Is this playground too high for your little one? There are even times you need to judge other people. Should I walk alone by that crowd of men? Is it okay to let that woman hold my child? (You know you’ve had strangers ask!) Do I really trust this cab driver on this side of town?
You can’t spend your life worrying about everyone, but split judgments of character could save your life. Nitpicking, however, will not. For example, your child will never be perfect. He or she will make a scene at the store, demand to wear a superman cape or tutu to church, or flat out refuse to say hello to the nice man in line. That is when you have to choose what is important. What is shaping your child’s character? For me, I don’t mind Parker picking out something crazy to wear, but I do want him to have manners and speak when spoken to.
As for judging others, we all do it. We just need to make an effort to correct ourselves when we are judging out of jealousy or annoyance. I really wish I had beautiful hair, so I have started admiring the pretty hair around me. I once would have found something critical to think to make myself feel prettier than that person. And I am quick to say ugly things about people who do things I don’t like. I’m working on that, too. So, the next time an ugly judgment comes to mind, quickly find something nice to think about that person. If you are really ready for a challenge, say the nice thing to their face. Don’t make it sugary or over the top, though, or it will come off as fake. Especially, those of you in the South…bless your heart should not precede your compliment!
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Improvements
“I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong; By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back. Philippians 3:12
Ah, the famous race toward the goal verse. It appears on football plaques, in coaches’ speeches, and even on purses these days. It is typically thought of as a sports mantra. For moms it can be even more. And for Christians, it should be our whole existence.
For the athletic theme, many of you fondly remember days of high school softball, volleyball, etc. For me it was more like intramural football and soccer at Troy. Your goal was scoring a run, defending a goal, or making a certain time. In that very moment nothing else mattered. Your adrenaline was pumping and the sweet taste of victory was on your tongue.
What if we put that kind of effort into raising our kids? The goal is Christ-centered adults who have a personal relationship with Jesus and seek to share that with others. Every day, nothing else matters. You can see that little boy or girl someday growing up to make a difference in this world. That is a much sweeter taste of victory than any trophy or accolade from a coach. But we have to consciously make the effort to reach that goal. We can’t rely on teachers at school or church to mold our little ones. We can’t expect our husbands or family members to get the job done. We have to train ourselves everyday by putting in practice time(reading our Bibles, spending time in prayer), stepping up to the plate (really thinking about how we will answer our child’s question Biblically or explain to him about God’s love), hitting the ball (showing him a Christian example to follow), and running our hardest toward home plate (setting goals for the future like family mission trips or daily quiet times as he is old enough).
But the true race that we are running is the race of life. We run toward Jesus, trusting Him in every situation. We honor Him with our choices, our worship, and our relationships. The goal is eternity with Him and the taste of victory will come when He says, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
So, back to improvements. Your sports days may be over, but how can you improve the way you raise your kids? How can you improve their meals, their education, their exposure to Jesus and His Word? And how can you improve your own exposure and opportunities to study and worship Him? What about your meals, your fitness, your relationships? Step it up and keep your eyes on the prize! No turning back!
Ah, the famous race toward the goal verse. It appears on football plaques, in coaches’ speeches, and even on purses these days. It is typically thought of as a sports mantra. For moms it can be even more. And for Christians, it should be our whole existence.
For the athletic theme, many of you fondly remember days of high school softball, volleyball, etc. For me it was more like intramural football and soccer at Troy. Your goal was scoring a run, defending a goal, or making a certain time. In that very moment nothing else mattered. Your adrenaline was pumping and the sweet taste of victory was on your tongue.
What if we put that kind of effort into raising our kids? The goal is Christ-centered adults who have a personal relationship with Jesus and seek to share that with others. Every day, nothing else matters. You can see that little boy or girl someday growing up to make a difference in this world. That is a much sweeter taste of victory than any trophy or accolade from a coach. But we have to consciously make the effort to reach that goal. We can’t rely on teachers at school or church to mold our little ones. We can’t expect our husbands or family members to get the job done. We have to train ourselves everyday by putting in practice time(reading our Bibles, spending time in prayer), stepping up to the plate (really thinking about how we will answer our child’s question Biblically or explain to him about God’s love), hitting the ball (showing him a Christian example to follow), and running our hardest toward home plate (setting goals for the future like family mission trips or daily quiet times as he is old enough).
But the true race that we are running is the race of life. We run toward Jesus, trusting Him in every situation. We honor Him with our choices, our worship, and our relationships. The goal is eternity with Him and the taste of victory will come when He says, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
So, back to improvements. Your sports days may be over, but how can you improve the way you raise your kids? How can you improve their meals, their education, their exposure to Jesus and His Word? And how can you improve your own exposure and opportunities to study and worship Him? What about your meals, your fitness, your relationships? Step it up and keep your eyes on the prize! No turning back!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Ignorance
“In a well-furnished kitchen there are not only crystal goblets and silver platters, but waste cans and compost buckets—some containers used to serve fine meals, others to take out the garbage. Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing.” 2 Timothy 2:20-21
Okay, so this version is a bit of a stretch from my NIV. And I can’t say that I completely get the reference to ignorance. If you put the NIV together with this version, it makes a little more sense. It adds that you have to cleanse yourself from the garbage (ignorance) in order to “be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the master and prepared to do good work.” Preparation really is the key to doing well with anything in life. Sure, you may be able to squeak by again and again, but will only get out of it what you put into it. I teach a 4 year old class at church. Some weeks I am exhausted and make the decision not to prepare a story or games, etc. Sometimes I luck out and am able to wing it. Typically, however, there is mass chaos in my room. The kids aren’t listening because I haven’t put forth the effort to make it fun. They are talking to each other and finding better things to get into. But when I have confidence in my activities and show them how excited I am about teaching them about a story from the Bible, it comes alive. Their parents are even pleased because they are chatting them up about the lesson, crafts, and games. They actually learned something at church.
The same goes for when we are simply the listener. Preparing your heart before a sermon or Bible study can make a big difference. Reading the material is often not on your list of priorities, but you will be so glad you did. And you can never go wrong with treating your Bible like a textbook. Learn the stories; keep the verses in your heart for future reference.
I really love the author’s idea to let your kids see you doing your homework. Oh, how kids hate homework! Make sure not to stress that homework never goes away, but how the love of learning can be a good thing. Explain that the Bible teaches you how to pass tests everyday…when making decisions about how to discipline them, how to treat other people, and how to one day get to Heaven.
So, onto another suggestion by the author…what word will my 1 year old learn tomorrow…He seems to pick up a new one every day! I’m thinking parameters (one of the author’s suggestions, which is defined as limits; boundaries) would be a good place to start! I hope you are all having a great week!
Okay, so this version is a bit of a stretch from my NIV. And I can’t say that I completely get the reference to ignorance. If you put the NIV together with this version, it makes a little more sense. It adds that you have to cleanse yourself from the garbage (ignorance) in order to “be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the master and prepared to do good work.” Preparation really is the key to doing well with anything in life. Sure, you may be able to squeak by again and again, but will only get out of it what you put into it. I teach a 4 year old class at church. Some weeks I am exhausted and make the decision not to prepare a story or games, etc. Sometimes I luck out and am able to wing it. Typically, however, there is mass chaos in my room. The kids aren’t listening because I haven’t put forth the effort to make it fun. They are talking to each other and finding better things to get into. But when I have confidence in my activities and show them how excited I am about teaching them about a story from the Bible, it comes alive. Their parents are even pleased because they are chatting them up about the lesson, crafts, and games. They actually learned something at church.
The same goes for when we are simply the listener. Preparing your heart before a sermon or Bible study can make a big difference. Reading the material is often not on your list of priorities, but you will be so glad you did. And you can never go wrong with treating your Bible like a textbook. Learn the stories; keep the verses in your heart for future reference.
I really love the author’s idea to let your kids see you doing your homework. Oh, how kids hate homework! Make sure not to stress that homework never goes away, but how the love of learning can be a good thing. Explain that the Bible teaches you how to pass tests everyday…when making decisions about how to discipline them, how to treat other people, and how to one day get to Heaven.
So, onto another suggestion by the author…what word will my 1 year old learn tomorrow…He seems to pick up a new one every day! I’m thinking parameters (one of the author’s suggestions, which is defined as limits; boundaries) would be a good place to start! I hope you are all having a great week!
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Hate
Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers all wrongs. Proverbs 10:12
When I was growing up, I remember my grandmother (who is also my godmother) saying that I should not use the word "hate." Knowing that my grandmother was wise and of course, out of respect, I refrained from using the word hate.
What does the word hate really mean? According to our friends at dictionary.com, hate is to dislike intensely or passionately. Such feeling must stem from Satan as our Lord, God, does not encourage such feeling instead He teaches us to love our enemies. Think about all the bad in this world from suicide bombers to kids who bully in school - and then imagine that this hate was actually covered in love... think of the lives that would be saved and the hearts that would be healed. Teach your children this love; teach your children to refrain from hatred. I know that when we get to heaven that any and all hate will be absent but it would be nice to foster love on earth. We can teach this love one person at a time, starting by being an example for our children and our families.
In your personal, professional, and family interactions do you ever come across someone who just drives you nuts?! I know that I do... and how do you react to these people and situations?Well, I know that I could stand some improvement in this area... although I may not say that I hate someone, I know that I may strongly dislike them. Instead of focusing so much negative energy around these interactions, I realize that I need to pray for these people and for the strength to show them love. Perhaps you will try the same - this week pray for those who may aggravate you. Also, try to think of the good qualities that this person (or people) possess and focus on those qualities.
When I was growing up, I remember my grandmother (who is also my godmother) saying that I should not use the word "hate." Knowing that my grandmother was wise and of course, out of respect, I refrained from using the word hate.
What does the word hate really mean? According to our friends at dictionary.com, hate is to dislike intensely or passionately. Such feeling must stem from Satan as our Lord, God, does not encourage such feeling instead He teaches us to love our enemies. Think about all the bad in this world from suicide bombers to kids who bully in school - and then imagine that this hate was actually covered in love... think of the lives that would be saved and the hearts that would be healed. Teach your children this love; teach your children to refrain from hatred. I know that when we get to heaven that any and all hate will be absent but it would be nice to foster love on earth. We can teach this love one person at a time, starting by being an example for our children and our families.
In your personal, professional, and family interactions do you ever come across someone who just drives you nuts?! I know that I do... and how do you react to these people and situations?Well, I know that I could stand some improvement in this area... although I may not say that I hate someone, I know that I may strongly dislike them. Instead of focusing so much negative energy around these interactions, I realize that I need to pray for these people and for the strength to show them love. Perhaps you will try the same - this week pray for those who may aggravate you. Also, try to think of the good qualities that this person (or people) possess and focus on those qualities.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Happiness
“I’m thanking you, God, from a full heart, I’m writing the book on your wonders. I’m whistling, laughing, and jumping for joy; I’m singing your song, High God.” Psalm 9:1
I am certainly the right person to tell yall about happiness. God has really been working on the contentment of my heart lately. I have already told you that I live a charmed life. I have a great husband, a cute kid, just bought a new house, and will soon start looking for a dog to buy. It’s the American dream. Sure, Daryl and I don’t always agree on everything (house hunting was so stressful), Parker has become really clingy and whiney lately, there’s a lot of work to do on our house, and we probably don’t need to jump into puppy training right now. Wait, that sounds like two different people describing their lives.
The truth is, we all do the very same things…play up the good or the bad. Happiness is focusing on the good. I refuse to get bogged down in what I don’t have, how tired I am, or how something went terribly wrong at some point today. True joy is not something you learn in a self-help book or from your psychiatrist. It is the way you choose to look at the life God has given you. You are His child, formed in His image. He is making all the decisions in your life, and you don’t really have all the control you think you do!
Enjoy life. When your husband is complaining again, give him a passionate kiss. When your child is whining, put something silly on your head. When your home is not perfect, take a picture of something that you love and find a place for it. When you think you need a dog, go get one. Studies have really shown that they make you happier! Alright, I’m off to watch the shows I recorded last night…because they make me happy.
I am certainly the right person to tell yall about happiness. God has really been working on the contentment of my heart lately. I have already told you that I live a charmed life. I have a great husband, a cute kid, just bought a new house, and will soon start looking for a dog to buy. It’s the American dream. Sure, Daryl and I don’t always agree on everything (house hunting was so stressful), Parker has become really clingy and whiney lately, there’s a lot of work to do on our house, and we probably don’t need to jump into puppy training right now. Wait, that sounds like two different people describing their lives.
The truth is, we all do the very same things…play up the good or the bad. Happiness is focusing on the good. I refuse to get bogged down in what I don’t have, how tired I am, or how something went terribly wrong at some point today. True joy is not something you learn in a self-help book or from your psychiatrist. It is the way you choose to look at the life God has given you. You are His child, formed in His image. He is making all the decisions in your life, and you don’t really have all the control you think you do!
Enjoy life. When your husband is complaining again, give him a passionate kiss. When your child is whining, put something silly on your head. When your home is not perfect, take a picture of something that you love and find a place for it. When you think you need a dog, go get one. Studies have really shown that they make you happier! Alright, I’m off to watch the shows I recorded last night…because they make me happy.
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