Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be man of courage; be strong. Do everything in love. 1 Cor. 16:13 NIV
Last week began as a normal week, it soon took a turn towards a bad week. It started out simple enough, one child not feeling well but that number multiplied quickly into seven sick children, three sick teens, and six sick adults or more.
As I laid in bed recovering, I questioned why me? I thought I had beaten it. When my stomach had begun to be upset, I found that adding ginger to my tea helped calm it right down. As two of my teens recovered from their bout with the stomach flu, I figured I had it beat and even offered them the ginger tea which one accepted the other declined.
Little did I expect to be lying in bed two days later, it's enough to bring your spirit's down. Still I was grateful that it only lasted 24 hours, and soon I was back to normal. I know there are people who deal with illness constantly, and look forward to days when they feel well.
The next bahumbug moment came yesterday, when my husband was all in a panic because his phone was missing. He remembers putting it in the normal place he leaves it, but later when he went to get it he could not locate it. I figured he just misplaced it. So now 24 hours later it is still missing.
Now we aren't sure what to do, we just got new phones 6 weeks ago. We did not get the phone insurance because who can afford $10 more dollars a month per phone, we can't. Now it's to late because it's been longer than 30 days. We won't be eligible for new phones for another 23 months, and to purchase one would cost a lot.
For now I guess we wait and see if it turns up. Pray for the Lord's guidance, and wait to see what he does. I will try to be on guard as we approach my Savior's celebration of his birth, and try not to let all of this bring be down.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Monday, December 5, 2011
The Lights Are Shinning
"Hold out your candle for all to see, take your candle, go light your world" Kathy Troccoli
Lights are appearing on different homes all over the place. We really enjoy driving around viewing the different lights this time of year.
In fact, there is a street where the Christmas lights are hung over the street, and most times when we drive through Christmas music is playing. It warms our hearts as we enjoy the different light displays. It is a great family tradition which was begun when my husband and I were dating. All of us look forward to it.
We have located lots of different displays, we even found a magnificent one accidentally. Every year we have to accidentally locate it again, somehow we do.
This time of year the lights remind us of the light of the world. He came to earth as a little baby, and endured hardships and pain all to allow us to be saved if only we believe.
Lights are appearing on different homes all over the place. We really enjoy driving around viewing the different lights this time of year.
In fact, there is a street where the Christmas lights are hung over the street, and most times when we drive through Christmas music is playing. It warms our hearts as we enjoy the different light displays. It is a great family tradition which was begun when my husband and I were dating. All of us look forward to it.
We have located lots of different displays, we even found a magnificent one accidentally. Every year we have to accidentally locate it again, somehow we do.
This time of year the lights remind us of the light of the world. He came to earth as a little baby, and endured hardships and pain all to allow us to be saved if only we believe.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Attitude Adjustment
Your attitude show be the same as that of Christ Jesus:...made himself nothing...humbled himself...was obedient. Philippians 2:5,7,& 8 NIV
There are moments in my life that I have a chance to examine my attitude, and at times I don't really like what I see.
Usually, I try to keep a good attitude. There are times though when a headache or tiredness contributes to me having a bad attitude. Then everyone around me suffers. When I become aware of how I'm acting, I try to pray and change to have a better day. Unfortunately, sometimes it's awhile before I realize my stinky attitude.
Other times the people you're around can have an attitude, and it's a real challenge to step away from the situation. Especially when I'm responsible for the care of some of these with the bad attitudes. It's at these times when I try hard not to give in and have the stinky attitude right back. A quick word of prayer, and maybe a praise song running in my head can certainly help.
As I read in the Bible about how our attitude should be, I wonder how Jesus could keep a good attitude. He put others first, and obeyed what God wanted Him to do. At times He even displayed some anger, but He was defending the temple (God's home). For the most part though, He was calm even when He had to be stressed with all these people following him, pushing and shoving him every which way. I'm sure He must have been tired and yet He maintain his calmness.
I hope as the stress of Christmas-the pushing and shoving of people in the stores, the limit of time to get things done, and the worry of having just the right gift-that I can keep my attitude the same as Christ. After all He didn't get stressed about his birthday!
There are moments in my life that I have a chance to examine my attitude, and at times I don't really like what I see.
Usually, I try to keep a good attitude. There are times though when a headache or tiredness contributes to me having a bad attitude. Then everyone around me suffers. When I become aware of how I'm acting, I try to pray and change to have a better day. Unfortunately, sometimes it's awhile before I realize my stinky attitude.
Other times the people you're around can have an attitude, and it's a real challenge to step away from the situation. Especially when I'm responsible for the care of some of these with the bad attitudes. It's at these times when I try hard not to give in and have the stinky attitude right back. A quick word of prayer, and maybe a praise song running in my head can certainly help.
As I read in the Bible about how our attitude should be, I wonder how Jesus could keep a good attitude. He put others first, and obeyed what God wanted Him to do. At times He even displayed some anger, but He was defending the temple (God's home). For the most part though, He was calm even when He had to be stressed with all these people following him, pushing and shoving him every which way. I'm sure He must have been tired and yet He maintain his calmness.
I hope as the stress of Christmas-the pushing and shoving of people in the stores, the limit of time to get things done, and the worry of having just the right gift-that I can keep my attitude the same as Christ. After all He didn't get stressed about his birthday!
Monday, November 21, 2011
Life From a Different View
The Lord their God will save them on that day as the flock of his people. They will sparkle in his land like jewels in a crown. How attractive and beautiful they will be! Zechariah 9:16 NIV
How wonderful it is to get to see a man and woman make a covenant to each other, a covenant they will hopefully keep for a lifetime. This weekend I had the privilege of seeing one of my cousins get married, and like most couples on their wedding day they look truly in love.
While I was there, I realized how lucky I am to have been married twenty-one years. My husband is a precious man of God. He works hard to provide for us as God's plans for him are unveiled a little more each year.
Right now he works two jobs, one he loves and one he does because we need the income and medical coverage provided by it. Sometimes it's tough for him and he gets tired and discouraged, this is when I encourage him to lean on the Lord more.
It's not always easy to walk with the Lord, and sometimes choices are tough to make. At times it might seem easier to follow the crowd, but I know that for me I need to follow the plans God has in store for me.
I guess it's good at times for these tough choices to come up, just so I can see how important it is to keep on the right path. Life brings about different choices and each of us most choose the path that's right for us.
It's truly a joyous occasion, when a man and a woman promise to commit to only each other for a lifetime. How they sparkled as they made their covenant and the joy that was brought to each person there as they witnessed this event.
How wonderful it is to get to see a man and woman make a covenant to each other, a covenant they will hopefully keep for a lifetime. This weekend I had the privilege of seeing one of my cousins get married, and like most couples on their wedding day they look truly in love.
While I was there, I realized how lucky I am to have been married twenty-one years. My husband is a precious man of God. He works hard to provide for us as God's plans for him are unveiled a little more each year.
Right now he works two jobs, one he loves and one he does because we need the income and medical coverage provided by it. Sometimes it's tough for him and he gets tired and discouraged, this is when I encourage him to lean on the Lord more.
It's not always easy to walk with the Lord, and sometimes choices are tough to make. At times it might seem easier to follow the crowd, but I know that for me I need to follow the plans God has in store for me.
I guess it's good at times for these tough choices to come up, just so I can see how important it is to keep on the right path. Life brings about different choices and each of us most choose the path that's right for us.
It's truly a joyous occasion, when a man and a woman promise to commit to only each other for a lifetime. How they sparkled as they made their covenant and the joy that was brought to each person there as they witnessed this event.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Proud Mom
"A wise son brings joy to his father..." Proverbs 10:1a
This past weekend brought about joy as we celebrated our athletic son's Eagle Ceremony. He's my shy one, he used to hide behind my legs when someone talked to him. Now he's too tall to do that, but he still is shy even in front of people he knows.
Still he stood up on stage proud to have accomplished the highest rank in Boy Scouts--the Eagle. He has been involved in scouting since he was in first grade. This program has been well worth the time we have invested into it. Each of our boys has been involved in scouting, and so has their father. The weekends spent together camping have been priceless.
My mechanical son received his Eagle in February 2010. I am very proud of each of them. They worked hard to accomplish this rank, and I know they will always look back to it as well worth the effort. Sure there had to be some encouragement from me and some pushing; after all isn't that what a mother's for.
I am proud of each of my children. Sure they've made some mistakes, and so have I. For the most part though they are good kids, who have an understanding of who God is. They try to make wise choices, sometimes they fail. It's at these times I hope they can learn and grow closer to the Lord.
As I continue to walk in the light, I hope they do as well.
This past weekend brought about joy as we celebrated our athletic son's Eagle Ceremony. He's my shy one, he used to hide behind my legs when someone talked to him. Now he's too tall to do that, but he still is shy even in front of people he knows.
Still he stood up on stage proud to have accomplished the highest rank in Boy Scouts--the Eagle. He has been involved in scouting since he was in first grade. This program has been well worth the time we have invested into it. Each of our boys has been involved in scouting, and so has their father. The weekends spent together camping have been priceless.
My mechanical son received his Eagle in February 2010. I am very proud of each of them. They worked hard to accomplish this rank, and I know they will always look back to it as well worth the effort. Sure there had to be some encouragement from me and some pushing; after all isn't that what a mother's for.
I am proud of each of my children. Sure they've made some mistakes, and so have I. For the most part though they are good kids, who have an understanding of who God is. They try to make wise choices, sometimes they fail. It's at these times I hope they can learn and grow closer to the Lord.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Just a Little Rose
"So I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you." Joshua 1:5b
This little rose is full of beauty. It unexpectedly bloomed on my rose bush this week. I had thought it was done for the season, but no it still had some beauty to give.
Have you ever wondered if you still have a little beauty to give? At times I have, I've wondered at times "is what I do make a difference?" Sometimes it seems like I just go through my normal routine, every thing's the same old, same old. During my normal routines, I can at times feel down.
There are lots of times in my life, that I've felt overlooked. When I was younger, I was always chosen last to be on the team. During high school, I'd eat lunch alone at a table or people on the bus would choose a different seat to sit in. No one would sit with me. That still happens to me now, I'll go somewhere for a cover dish dinner and everyone passes by my table. I don't understand why I'm overlooked, I just am..
Luckily, though I am never truly alone. There is someone who never overlooks me. God, He is always with me, and He will never leave me nor forsake me.
I need to be on the look out for those who seem to be left out, and tell them we each have beauty to give. Let them know that their life does make a difference.
None of us are done giving, until the Lord says we're done.
This little rose is full of beauty. It unexpectedly bloomed on my rose bush this week. I had thought it was done for the season, but no it still had some beauty to give.
Have you ever wondered if you still have a little beauty to give? At times I have, I've wondered at times "is what I do make a difference?" Sometimes it seems like I just go through my normal routine, every thing's the same old, same old. During my normal routines, I can at times feel down.
There are lots of times in my life, that I've felt overlooked. When I was younger, I was always chosen last to be on the team. During high school, I'd eat lunch alone at a table or people on the bus would choose a different seat to sit in. No one would sit with me. That still happens to me now, I'll go somewhere for a cover dish dinner and everyone passes by my table. I don't understand why I'm overlooked, I just am..
Luckily, though I am never truly alone. There is someone who never overlooks me. God, He is always with me, and He will never leave me nor forsake me.
I need to be on the look out for those who seem to be left out, and tell them we each have beauty to give. Let them know that their life does make a difference.
Monday, October 31, 2011
My Life Changed for the Better
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
The sanctuary was empty and I was in the back. A song went through my head, a song that spoke to my heart and let me know that I needed a Savior. It was in the back of this little church that I accepted Jesus as my Savior.
I can't exactly remember the song, and I don't know the date. I do know the place and can still picture it today. I was just entering my teen years, and it was the Lord who helped me not to get into to much trouble.
Unfortunately, though I did not completely trust the Lord with everything. For some reason I figured God and money didn't mix--crazy I know. So for years, I lived the way the world did with my money. I spent it on things before paying the bills. I maxed out credit cards, and almost lost our home.
After my daughter was born, the day came when we were served. Our home was about to be foreclosed on. It was on this day when I completely surrendered. I gave the Lord all of my problems, and left it all at the cross. This was the day my life changed for the better.
The Lord sent us the answer to save our home, and we worked hard to stick to his plan. I have occasionally wondered back to the old ways, but soon realize it and get back on the right path. That's the best thing about God, he continually forgives every time I ask.
I am far from perfect. I make mistakes. I try to follow the Lord's plans for me as best I can, so when I don't take part in something the "world" does. Don't look down on me.
I am a new creation and everyday I try to walk in His light.
The sanctuary was empty and I was in the back. A song went through my head, a song that spoke to my heart and let me know that I needed a Savior. It was in the back of this little church that I accepted Jesus as my Savior.
I can't exactly remember the song, and I don't know the date. I do know the place and can still picture it today. I was just entering my teen years, and it was the Lord who helped me not to get into to much trouble.
Unfortunately, though I did not completely trust the Lord with everything. For some reason I figured God and money didn't mix--crazy I know. So for years, I lived the way the world did with my money. I spent it on things before paying the bills. I maxed out credit cards, and almost lost our home.
After my daughter was born, the day came when we were served. Our home was about to be foreclosed on. It was on this day when I completely surrendered. I gave the Lord all of my problems, and left it all at the cross. This was the day my life changed for the better.
The Lord sent us the answer to save our home, and we worked hard to stick to his plan. I have occasionally wondered back to the old ways, but soon realize it and get back on the right path. That's the best thing about God, he continually forgives every time I ask.
I am far from perfect. I make mistakes. I try to follow the Lord's plans for me as best I can, so when I don't take part in something the "world" does. Don't look down on me.
I am a new creation and everyday I try to walk in His light.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Flashback
God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and truth. John 4:24
Have you ever been somewhere and felt like you've done this before? That's what happen to me Saturday night as we were singing praise songs.
We attended a Emmaus Gathering, where we ate to much, and we praised the Lord together. The band had added a member to their group for the night, and she introduced the songs. She also played and sang. This special lady used to lead a group my husband was a part of about 10 to 14 years ago.
As she sang and played, it brought me back to a special time. Our church at the time had a Sunday evening service called the Dove's Nest. We went because they played newer Christian songs and my husband could participate in it. It was a wonderful service.
This is probably where I personally experienced a lot of spiritual growth, and made some life long friends. It was an informal service, and we were free to ask the pastor questions. This setting made it comfortable and freeing.
Saturday evening was just a reminder of where I had been, and how much I've grown and continue to grow in my walk with Christ. It was nice to worship with these special friends, and her now grown daughter who was in the band with her husband. It was also great to be there with my family, and the new friends I have recently made.
The time and place may have changed, but the Holy Spirit was there as we worshipped God in truth and love.
Thanks Lord for bringing be back to a wonderful memory.
Have you ever been somewhere and felt like you've done this before? That's what happen to me Saturday night as we were singing praise songs.
We attended a Emmaus Gathering, where we ate to much, and we praised the Lord together. The band had added a member to their group for the night, and she introduced the songs. She also played and sang. This special lady used to lead a group my husband was a part of about 10 to 14 years ago.
As she sang and played, it brought me back to a special time. Our church at the time had a Sunday evening service called the Dove's Nest. We went because they played newer Christian songs and my husband could participate in it. It was a wonderful service.
This is probably where I personally experienced a lot of spiritual growth, and made some life long friends. It was an informal service, and we were free to ask the pastor questions. This setting made it comfortable and freeing.
Saturday evening was just a reminder of where I had been, and how much I've grown and continue to grow in my walk with Christ. It was nice to worship with these special friends, and her now grown daughter who was in the band with her husband. It was also great to be there with my family, and the new friends I have recently made.
The time and place may have changed, but the Holy Spirit was there as we worshipped God in truth and love.
Thanks Lord for bringing be back to a wonderful memory.
Monday, October 17, 2011
He Never Ceases to Amaze Me
The disciples were amazed at his words...The disciples were even more amazed... Mark 10: 24a & 26a NIV
Just when I think I am to just be satisifed with the way things are, and to learn to live on what we have. He amazes me. His timing is always perfect.
On Saturday, I received a call from a family with children I used to keep. The mom wanted to know if I could do drop in since her husband schedule will not be set. I said "sure", and he began today. Now I thought it would turn out to be just one day this week, and so far it's three.
The other amazing part is, it couldn't have come at a better time. Around the middle of the month is the hardest for us because our insurance payment comes out automatically. As we know auto insurance isn't cheap, anyway I didn't know how we could make it through until Thursday the next pay day, and now I know. The Lord has sent us a way to earn the income.
His timing is perfect!
Just when I think I am to just be satisifed with the way things are, and to learn to live on what we have. He amazes me. His timing is always perfect.
On Saturday, I received a call from a family with children I used to keep. The mom wanted to know if I could do drop in since her husband schedule will not be set. I said "sure", and he began today. Now I thought it would turn out to be just one day this week, and so far it's three.
The other amazing part is, it couldn't have come at a better time. Around the middle of the month is the hardest for us because our insurance payment comes out automatically. As we know auto insurance isn't cheap, anyway I didn't know how we could make it through until Thursday the next pay day, and now I know. The Lord has sent us a way to earn the income.
His timing is perfect!
Monday, October 10, 2011
Bravery in the Light
When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him... Luke 24:30-31a NIV
The day that I left was filled with unplanned events. A visit from the inspector, limited time, and high spirited children. When I finally was able to step into the camp, I was much relieved.
This weekend I served on a Walk to Emmaus weekend. A weekend that I decided to take a part of with somewhat selfish reasons. I needed to have my cup refilled. I've come away with it partially refilled, but I now have the knowledge to help continue to get it completely filled .
I was able to feel God's agape (unconditional) love for me this weekend. His hands and feet were shown to me numerous times. A new friend offered to get my luggage, since I would be arriving a little late. She not only brought my luggage to the camp, but made my bed!
The weekend also brought rain, mostly the last day. During my rush to get ready, I never even thought to grab my umbrella. I did have a jacket. Many times though someone offered to hold their umbrella over me.
My food was served to me for a change, and the beautiful dinner we had one night showed each of us how special we are. Different people volunteered to cook the meals for this three day walk, and others volunteered to serve it to us. I have had my fill of desserts, and let me say they weren't skimpy on the serving sizes. I'm lucky my clothes still fit!
This weekend served as a reminder to me that I need to be God's hands and feet. Also that I'm not alone in my Christian journey. I discovered just a small percentage of how many Christians are in my community arranging in a variety of ages and races.
I've also been reminded that I'm on the right journey, and that I need to stay in touch with Him to keep checking on my journey.
It was a joy to serve my Lord, as he fed me. New friends were made and lives were changed. I have the strength to once again to bravely walk in the light.
The day that I left was filled with unplanned events. A visit from the inspector, limited time, and high spirited children. When I finally was able to step into the camp, I was much relieved.
This weekend I served on a Walk to Emmaus weekend. A weekend that I decided to take a part of with somewhat selfish reasons. I needed to have my cup refilled. I've come away with it partially refilled, but I now have the knowledge to help continue to get it completely filled .
I was able to feel God's agape (unconditional) love for me this weekend. His hands and feet were shown to me numerous times. A new friend offered to get my luggage, since I would be arriving a little late. She not only brought my luggage to the camp, but made my bed!
The weekend also brought rain, mostly the last day. During my rush to get ready, I never even thought to grab my umbrella. I did have a jacket. Many times though someone offered to hold their umbrella over me.
My food was served to me for a change, and the beautiful dinner we had one night showed each of us how special we are. Different people volunteered to cook the meals for this three day walk, and others volunteered to serve it to us. I have had my fill of desserts, and let me say they weren't skimpy on the serving sizes. I'm lucky my clothes still fit!
This weekend served as a reminder to me that I need to be God's hands and feet. Also that I'm not alone in my Christian journey. I discovered just a small percentage of how many Christians are in my community arranging in a variety of ages and races.
I've also been reminded that I'm on the right journey, and that I need to stay in touch with Him to keep checking on my journey.
It was a joy to serve my Lord, as he fed me. New friends were made and lives were changed. I have the strength to once again to bravely walk in the light.
Monday, October 3, 2011
God Lights the Path
His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. Luke 1:50
God has been gracious to us, and taught me new lessons. God never ceases to amaze me.
As everything has begun to run out, somehow I find just enough of it to get us through. One of these things was ketchup, apparently I stocked up during a buy one get one free sale. I just didn't realize how much we had. I kept thinking we were using the last bottle and I'd be getting something else and find another bottle. It was as if they multiplied.
In fact just today, I found some allergy medicine that I didn't think I had anymore. Just last week my husband located more sinus medicine just when I took the last of it. This has happened over and over again. God has shown us His mercy.
A lesson I have learned is that we don't need all the convience food that I usually buy. I don't buy a lot of it anyway, but fries and frozen pizza are really convient. A bag of potatoes is a lot cheaper and it doesn't take to long to slice them for fries. This week I made pizza, since the recipe was for two pizzas, our pizza is already made and frozen for Friday. Hopefully, as I can now buy more than $30-50 worth of groceries at a time, I will remember and not go back to what's easier.
Life has been hard, but God's light has gotten me through and continues to light the path I'm walking on.
God has been gracious to us, and taught me new lessons. God never ceases to amaze me.
As everything has begun to run out, somehow I find just enough of it to get us through. One of these things was ketchup, apparently I stocked up during a buy one get one free sale. I just didn't realize how much we had. I kept thinking we were using the last bottle and I'd be getting something else and find another bottle. It was as if they multiplied.
In fact just today, I found some allergy medicine that I didn't think I had anymore. Just last week my husband located more sinus medicine just when I took the last of it. This has happened over and over again. God has shown us His mercy.
A lesson I have learned is that we don't need all the convience food that I usually buy. I don't buy a lot of it anyway, but fries and frozen pizza are really convient. A bag of potatoes is a lot cheaper and it doesn't take to long to slice them for fries. This week I made pizza, since the recipe was for two pizzas, our pizza is already made and frozen for Friday. Hopefully, as I can now buy more than $30-50 worth of groceries at a time, I will remember and not go back to what's easier.
Life has been hard, but God's light has gotten me through and continues to light the path I'm walking on.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Friends Help Divide the Burden
And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning his command is that you walk in love. 2 John 6
This week has certainly shown me how friends can help lessen the burden. As I planned for the yard sale, not knowing how much we'd bring in with what little we had. Friends came forward and added to their "stuff" to our treasures.
A friend who I barely see or even talk to, came forward with some things she'd like to give us for our sale. I gladly accepted, and felt cared for as I went forth with God's plan. She found some more things and was able to bring them to another friend who I see on a daily basis, this in turn had this friend bring us more "stuff" to sell. Then another friend had a couple more things to add to our yard sale.
With all this "stuff", we now had more things to sell. Not only did friends come forward to donate things, but each of my kids went through and sacrificed things to sell. It was a Walton or Little House moment with all of us coming together to help each other out.
Our yard sale didn't bring us BIG money, but it did bring in enough to help buy the groceries for this week. With all of these blessings, I wasn't even brought down when my husband's brakes locked up on his car. This will of course need to be fixed, which will be just as soon as we can.
The day to get caught up by is approaching, but I know with God all things are possible and it will be done!
This week has certainly shown me how friends can help lessen the burden. As I planned for the yard sale, not knowing how much we'd bring in with what little we had. Friends came forward and added to their "stuff" to our treasures.
A friend who I barely see or even talk to, came forward with some things she'd like to give us for our sale. I gladly accepted, and felt cared for as I went forth with God's plan. She found some more things and was able to bring them to another friend who I see on a daily basis, this in turn had this friend bring us more "stuff" to sell. Then another friend had a couple more things to add to our yard sale.
With all this "stuff", we now had more things to sell. Not only did friends come forward to donate things, but each of my kids went through and sacrificed things to sell. It was a Walton or Little House moment with all of us coming together to help each other out.
Our yard sale didn't bring us BIG money, but it did bring in enough to help buy the groceries for this week. With all of these blessings, I wasn't even brought down when my husband's brakes locked up on his car. This will of course need to be fixed, which will be just as soon as we can.
The day to get caught up by is approaching, but I know with God all things are possible and it will be done!
Monday, September 19, 2011
Trust, It can be So Hard Sometimes
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
TRUST, is now a word I see every time I enter my room. My husband found a cross that he received, and hung it on our wall. Since it is something new hung in our room, it keeps capturing my attention.
As we keep facing trials, it is a word I am clinging to. A song keeps repeating in my mind: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart...", it is one that we sing a lot in children's church. I learn a lot of Bible verses this way, which if I'm learning them just thinking what those young minds are learning.
Anyway, I've been having a hard time with my understanding. I can't understand why three of the children in my day care had their funding stopped without a word from the county. They were quick to call me at the beginning of the month, but that was all straightened out. Why couldn't they just offer a phone call 10 days later when unbeknowest to those it matters too they dropped them?
I mean we would have done things a lot different. Instead we find out a month later-that's a month without pay and by the time they were back on the program six weeks had gone by. The parents are trying to make it up, but it's slow considering they are on the program because of their income.
I also don't understand all the other bills that have come due are more than they usually are. Or things breaking down. Especially, now as we are trying to cut back expenses as much as we can. It'll work out fine as long as we keep groceries down.
As I went to bed Friday night, once again wondering "why, when I am trying to follow the Lord, does this keep happening?" I put in the Lord's hands and awoken with new ways to hopefully earn the much needed money--a yard sale.
We all went to work and have found stuff we no longer need or use. So come bright and early Saturday morning we will TRUST in God to see the blessings flow. He will certainly straighten our path, and will help us walk in his glory.
TRUST, is now a word I see every time I enter my room. My husband found a cross that he received, and hung it on our wall. Since it is something new hung in our room, it keeps capturing my attention.
As we keep facing trials, it is a word I am clinging to. A song keeps repeating in my mind: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart...", it is one that we sing a lot in children's church. I learn a lot of Bible verses this way, which if I'm learning them just thinking what those young minds are learning.
Anyway, I've been having a hard time with my understanding. I can't understand why three of the children in my day care had their funding stopped without a word from the county. They were quick to call me at the beginning of the month, but that was all straightened out. Why couldn't they just offer a phone call 10 days later when unbeknowest to those it matters too they dropped them?
I mean we would have done things a lot different. Instead we find out a month later-that's a month without pay and by the time they were back on the program six weeks had gone by. The parents are trying to make it up, but it's slow considering they are on the program because of their income.
I also don't understand all the other bills that have come due are more than they usually are. Or things breaking down. Especially, now as we are trying to cut back expenses as much as we can. It'll work out fine as long as we keep groceries down.
As I went to bed Friday night, once again wondering "why, when I am trying to follow the Lord, does this keep happening?" I put in the Lord's hands and awoken with new ways to hopefully earn the much needed money--a yard sale.
We all went to work and have found stuff we no longer need or use. So come bright and early Saturday morning we will TRUST in God to see the blessings flow. He will certainly straighten our path, and will help us walk in his glory.
Monday, September 12, 2011
One Step Forward Two Steps Back
It seems every time there is a blessing, it's followed by a trial.
This past week has been a blessed one, but just when things seem to be going well again the walls begin to crumble.
On Saturday, I received the blessing of a scholarship. This was unexpected, I had just asked how soon did I need to pay and explained our current situation. I never expected to have the entire weekend paid for. A confirmation that I am to attend this weekend.
The mail that day though brought bad news of having to completely get caught up by a certain day or loose everything we have worked so hard for. We've worked hard to get caught back up, just aren't quite there yet. We've been going without a lot lately, and will continue to do so until we are current.
Sunday, brought more blessings with some extra money earned.
I thought we needed to adjust a date when our huge insurance payment comes out to the following week. Unfortunately, this could not be done. So now we have to adjust to make sure there's enough in the account on the date the auto payment comes out, which means not very much money until the next pay day.
I know the Lord will provide and get us through. He always does.
Hopefully, soon there will be more steps forward then back. I will continue to walk with Him because He has overcome my troubles.
This past week has been a blessed one, but just when things seem to be going well again the walls begin to crumble.
On Saturday, I received the blessing of a scholarship. This was unexpected, I had just asked how soon did I need to pay and explained our current situation. I never expected to have the entire weekend paid for. A confirmation that I am to attend this weekend.
The mail that day though brought bad news of having to completely get caught up by a certain day or loose everything we have worked so hard for. We've worked hard to get caught back up, just aren't quite there yet. We've been going without a lot lately, and will continue to do so until we are current.
Sunday, brought more blessings with some extra money earned.
I thought we needed to adjust a date when our huge insurance payment comes out to the following week. Unfortunately, this could not be done. So now we have to adjust to make sure there's enough in the account on the date the auto payment comes out, which means not very much money until the next pay day.
I know the Lord will provide and get us through. He always does.
Hopefully, soon there will be more steps forward then back. I will continue to walk with Him because He has overcome my troubles.
Monday, September 5, 2011
Dread, Depressing Days
The beginning of my week was horrible. It seems as if the devil has been hard at work trying to bring me down.
It isn't enough that because of the county saying "We never received a fax," that I'm now out a consiberable amount of money and have to wait for it to come through the guardians who really don't have the money in the first place. But then to have the orthodnotist decided to take my artistic daughter braces off early and demand the final payment on her next visit.
Let's just say the week went down hill from there. Everything seemed to go wrong. Funny how when I study the book of Job, how my life begins to be like his. Not nearly as bad, but depressing and challenging none the less.
Still like Job, I will not turn my back on God. He is the one who gets me through.
My week began to get better and the little bit of joy began to shine through. First with friends who came beside me and help me know they were praying for me. Then with lots of birthday wishes from friends and family.
Finally, it was through a birthday gift a morning glory. As my sister-in-law shared this plant has new flowers every morning just like God's mercies are new every morning. Sure enough the next morning new flowers were on the plant and as we left for church that morning the song "Great is the faithfulness, morning by morning new mercies I see." Then to make sure I really received the message God placed it in the book I was reading as it ended the characters in the book decided to end their evening together singing one of the main characters favorite songs. Yep, you've guessed it "Great is the Faithfulness."
So as bad as my day may get, God is still there and his mercies are new every morning.
It isn't enough that because of the county saying "We never received a fax," that I'm now out a consiberable amount of money and have to wait for it to come through the guardians who really don't have the money in the first place. But then to have the orthodnotist decided to take my artistic daughter braces off early and demand the final payment on her next visit.
Let's just say the week went down hill from there. Everything seemed to go wrong. Funny how when I study the book of Job, how my life begins to be like his. Not nearly as bad, but depressing and challenging none the less.
Still like Job, I will not turn my back on God. He is the one who gets me through.
My week began to get better and the little bit of joy began to shine through. First with friends who came beside me and help me know they were praying for me. Then with lots of birthday wishes from friends and family.
Finally, it was through a birthday gift a morning glory. As my sister-in-law shared this plant has new flowers every morning just like God's mercies are new every morning. Sure enough the next morning new flowers were on the plant and as we left for church that morning the song "Great is the faithfulness, morning by morning new mercies I see." Then to make sure I really received the message God placed it in the book I was reading as it ended the characters in the book decided to end their evening together singing one of the main characters favorite songs. Yep, you've guessed it "Great is the Faithfulness."
So as bad as my day may get, God is still there and his mercies are new every morning.
Monday, August 29, 2011
It Smells Like Baby Powder
The bathroom door was shut, normally this is a good thing. Not when a two year old is behind that door. When my artistic daughter checked on the questionable two year old a minute later, there was baby powder everywhere.
Our attention had been diverted to other things like preparing lunch for this active group to eat. My older two were trying to get school work done, and it was thought that maybe just this once for a minute the bathroom door could be closed.
It's amazing what can happen in a minute, I should have listened to that voice "it's not good for the door to be closed." Instead I kept an eye on the grilled cheese. Instead of the grilled cheese burning, I got to clean up half a bottle of baby powder.
Why do I sometimes ignore that voice? Is it because other things seem more important at the time? If I had paid attention and done what I was being prompted to do, the time out and the clean up could have been avoided.
Next time I will try to follow the voice of the Lord, and hopefully my day will be brighter and less powdery.
Our attention had been diverted to other things like preparing lunch for this active group to eat. My older two were trying to get school work done, and it was thought that maybe just this once for a minute the bathroom door could be closed.
It's amazing what can happen in a minute, I should have listened to that voice "it's not good for the door to be closed." Instead I kept an eye on the grilled cheese. Instead of the grilled cheese burning, I got to clean up half a bottle of baby powder.
Why do I sometimes ignore that voice? Is it because other things seem more important at the time? If I had paid attention and done what I was being prompted to do, the time out and the clean up could have been avoided.
Next time I will try to follow the voice of the Lord, and hopefully my day will be brighter and less powdery.
Monday, August 22, 2011
The Little Bit of Light
The little glow on the windsheild caught my attention. At first I didn't know what was causing it. Was it the lights from the oncoming traffic? How in the world do we get light from a splat on the windsheild?
Then it occured to me that a little lightning bug must have hit the van's window. It glowed for awhile and then went out. It was beautiful to see on such a dark part of the highway.
Later when I was sharing with my aunt about what I saw, my athletic son said he saw it too. This lead me to think about the little glimpses of light I see helping me to know that God still loves me.
This week the glimpse of light came in having more spare change then I thought. Enough to help fund our trip to my Grandmother's birthday. He also shed some light when I had a couple of interviews for possible future day care kids. He also shone His light to my mechanical son as he had a job interview.
The Lord's light is still here we just need to look for it.
Then it occured to me that a little lightning bug must have hit the van's window. It glowed for awhile and then went out. It was beautiful to see on such a dark part of the highway.
Later when I was sharing with my aunt about what I saw, my athletic son said he saw it too. This lead me to think about the little glimpses of light I see helping me to know that God still loves me.
This week the glimpse of light came in having more spare change then I thought. Enough to help fund our trip to my Grandmother's birthday. He also shed some light when I had a couple of interviews for possible future day care kids. He also shone His light to my mechanical son as he had a job interview.
The Lord's light is still here we just need to look for it.
Monday, August 15, 2011
The Beginning
So today I take the plunge, the plunge to begin a blog. My athletic son thinks I'm weird, who knows maybe I am.
Each day brings about an adventure. Sometimes my adventure is long, sometimes it's fun, sometimes it brings about challenges I don't want to partake in.
This weekend our adventure brought about a clean yard, and all the pile that increased over the years is now gone. The trees recieved their annual haircut, and I'm generally pleased. This reminds me of how God can come in and clean up all the debris that piles up in my heart and when He's done cleaning it up I admit I'm generally pleased.
Today we took an adventure on a "Florida mountain". It in no way compares to the mountains up north, but for us here in Florida it was a lot of fun going up and down the hills. The younger ones oohed and awed over the view from twenty feet high. Even here we can enjoy God's beauty. One just needs to look around.
So here it is my first of which will hopefully be many more.
Each day brings about an adventure. Sometimes my adventure is long, sometimes it's fun, sometimes it brings about challenges I don't want to partake in.
This weekend our adventure brought about a clean yard, and all the pile that increased over the years is now gone. The trees recieved their annual haircut, and I'm generally pleased. This reminds me of how God can come in and clean up all the debris that piles up in my heart and when He's done cleaning it up I admit I'm generally pleased.
Today we took an adventure on a "Florida mountain". It in no way compares to the mountains up north, but for us here in Florida it was a lot of fun going up and down the hills. The younger ones oohed and awed over the view from twenty feet high. Even here we can enjoy God's beauty. One just needs to look around.
So here it is my first of which will hopefully be many more.
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