Thankful Thursday - His Fame

I thought I would do things a little different today. (Well, maybe not *so* different, considering how often I post about music and songs here...but, I won't be using my usual Thankful Thursday "list" format.)

Because The Preacher's Wife has really challenged me to step up to the next level in my relationship with Jesus...

Because Beth Moore has challenged me to KNOW CHRIST, and taught me that every season of my life gives me an opportunity to know Him better, love Him more, and serve Him with greater passion...

Because Jesus is so AWESOME, WONDERFUL, and PRECIOUS to me...because He truly is the LOVER OF MY SOUL, and I am head over heals CRAZY for Him...

Instead of a "list", I am going to post the lyrics to one of my most favorite songs that I used to sing with our praise team a lot. To me, it just puts it all in perspective. THIS is why I am SO VERY THANKFUL today...

Jesus, Lover Of My Soul (It's All About You) Lyrics by
Passion

It's all about You, Jesus

And all this is for You

For Your glory and your fame

It's not about me

As if You should do things my way

You alone are God

And I surrender to your ways

Jesus, lover of my soul

All consuming fire is in Your gaze

Jesus, I want you to know

I will follow you all my days

For no one else in history is like you

And history itself belongs to you

Alpha and Omega, You have loved me

And I will share eternity with You

Thank you Jesus!! You are my FAME!! It's all about knowing you, and making you known!

If you would like to participate in Thankful Thursday, or to enjoy other TT posts, please visit Iris @ Sting My Heart.

Have a BLESSED day!

I AM Bible Study - Lesson Nine: A Set Up for a Show Up

Wow!! What a thought provoking lesson, Lisa!! Thank you for challenging me to think of all the opportunities I have been given to make the Name of Jesus FAMOUS!! Once again, I was left with a song in my heart, a song of praise to my God!!

Here are my answers to this week's Discussion Questions:

1. On a scale of 1 to 10, rate yourself on how often your conversation is seasoned with the works of the Lord on your behalf? If you speak very little of Him, is there a reason you know of? If you speak often, how do people respond?
I would probably give myself a 7 on this one. I try really hard to give God all the credit these days. Now, it wasn't always that way...there were many times when I tried to be the one calling the shots and gaining the glory, but I feel that as I have matured as a Christian, I have learned that it is truly ALL about HIM!! He is the reason I am who I am today, and every circumstance that he has allowed in my life has been for my benefit. What I mean by that is that He is making me a better reflector of HIS GLORY!!! Most people respond positively, but there are some who think I have lost my mind. Why is it so hard to simply have faith, and let God be God???
What's really comical about it all, is when I pray and ask God for a specific need or his provision over a certain area of my life, then when He comes through for me, I am surprised!! HE NEVER CEASES TO AMAZE ME!! Oh Lord, help me overcome my unbelief!!!

2. Have you experienced a Set Up for a Show Up when you were uncertain whether the situation was the chastisement of the Lord or a temptation of Satan?
There was one particular area of my ministry that I struggled with for a long time. I couldn't decide whether God was calling me to give it up, or if it was Satan trying to get me to quit. I honestly am still unsure about it. All I know is that in the end, God gave me the peace I needed. In that way He TOTALLY showed up in my life and allowed me the wisdom I needed to make the decision. That was a few years ago, and the longing has been placed back in my heart for this particular ministry very recently. I don't know if that means God wants me back there or not, but I do know that HE is SOVEREIGN, and as long as I put my trust in Him and allow Him to call the shots, whether or not this is in my future, I will be okay, because I know He has plans for me either way.

3. Have you ever or are you now experiencing any Job trials where you can still not identify any wrong-doing on your part?
Most of the time I can trace my trials back to either an act or attitude of rebellion. Even back in college, I feel that I went through a series of difficult (even terrible) circumstances because I was in an attitude of rebellion towards not only my parents, but God. My disobedient heart caused a removal of protection, which in the end, was for my benefit. Much like the Prodigal Son, who was allowed to leave home with his full inheritance, I had to learn the hard way, that the best place to be, the safest place to be, was at home...in the arms of my Father. Because of that correction, I have never rebelled in that way again.

4. Apply this principle: How can my response make my God famous? Will obedience result in my sanctification and God's Glory?
At the Beth Moore conference I attended back in March, she taught out of the book of James. One of the key verses was to "count it all joy" when we experience various trials. She said that each one of these trials has a purpose, and that is to give color to our masterpiece. Ephesians 2:10 tells us that we are Christ's workmanship (that word translated literally means "masterpiece"). God is using every trial in my life, to add color, beauty and wonder to me, His canvas. My response to give God the glory, no matter what circumstance I find myself in increases God's fame because the world is watching. They want to see how I react to different things. My reaction is my testimony. Not only the lost people of the world, but a cloud of witnesses stands in awe, each time I stand to my feet in the midst of a storm, and praise and worship my God in spite of, or even better, because of it!

5. Does the origin of our affliction matter in view of the fame God can gain from it?
Hmmm, that is a tough one. I am inclined to say no because whether our affliction is part of correction, or due to God's allowing the enemy to try and sway us, it is all for our benefit, and HIS glory. Then again, those who have done NOTHING to deserve the affliction, and still choose to stand and praise, well they are the creme of the crop!! Either way, He is still the Famous One.

May Day Challenge - Week 7

Well, after a few weeks of maintaining, then gaining...I am now a LOSER again!! Yay!! It's only 1/2 pound, but I will take it!!

I have decided to change tactics, though. Instead of the CORE plan, I am switching back to the POINTS plan. As much as I don't like the hassle, I need the accountability of writing down what I eat at each meal, and counting the points. Maybe after I regain my focus, I can give myself a little bit of leniancy.

So here are my goals for this week.

1) Write down everything I eat (EVERYTHING!!) and count points.

2) Get at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise each day M-F. (So far, so good...)

3) Drink 8 glasses of water each day.

4) Cut out sweet tea, and sugary snacks. (Which I should have been doing all along, but remember last week, I said my will power had escaped me!)


My friend Paula sent me an email yesterday with this verse, "but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (Isaiah 40:31)

Lord, give me your strength this week. Renew my mind and my commitment to this challenge. Help me to achieve sucess. I want to RUN!! Thank you Jesus for hearing this prayer, I will be sure to give you all the praise and all the glory!! AMEN!!

Ode to Wii

Before I begin, I would like to dedicate this "little ditty" to the Nintendo Wii that we would have loved to purchase Friday night, but were unable to do so because every stinking vendor in our town is SOLD OUT!!!

You see, we had the weekend to ourselves and were looking forward to spending some quality time together. We decided that this time would be best spent by playing the Wii. Why on earth would two grown adults who have NO CHILDREN for an entire weekend chose such entertainment?? It's simple really...BooMama has spoken gloriously of it on her blog (and all things "BooMama" are well worth looking into), and Chris' boss (Dean) got one last week, which of course, now has him salivating for his very own console...(for the kids, of course!!) ;-)

So without further ado...I call it "Ode to Wii". (Look out, Nise' !! I'm singing!!!...and no...I can NOT believe this man of mine talked me into doing this!!!)

Wii where are you tonight???
Why did you Wiive us hear all alone??
Wii've searched the town over
But Wii have discovered...
Dean got the last one
'Cause PPTTHHHTTT you are gone!!!

Just in case you missed it, the video is here.

UPDATE: Our Best Buy in town got a shipment of 28 Wiis yesterday morning. Chris walked out with the LAST ONE at 1:oo pm!! YAY!!! We're going to be taking summer fun to a whole new level!! (BTW: I just wanted to thank you all for being so sweet and gracious about my little indulgence in silliness!!! Have a great day!!)

Things That Make You Go "Hmmmmm"

Okay, I know that I am so totally dating myself with the title to this post (not to mention the "so totally" statement), but since I can't get my creative juices to flow this morning to save my sweet little neck, let's just roll with it, alrighty??

And, because this has been a week of list action here at Truly Captivating, I thought I would continue the streak (remember, the creative juices??? all clogged up), and post a list of blogs that have really challenged me, encouraged me, and/or delighted me this week. 

So here I go...sharing the linky love...

• KISA and Tony have both offered great perspectives on church growth, or the lack thereof. 
• Karen's Determined Purpose just blessed my socks off!
• ...and so did  Hiding From the One Who Seeks by Tracey over at Laced With Grace.
• Christine at Fruit in Season has begun a 30 Day Honor Your Husband Challenge. I haven't joined in yet, but I am hoping to make that happen next week. 
• Also, Alycia offered some wonderful perspective on her participation in this challenge. 
• In that same "family" spirit, Amanda posted a sweet little nugget to her precious little boy.  Reading it brought tears to my eyes as I remembered those sweet days with my own little blessings. 
• Perry also posted a message to his daughter (due to be born very soon) in several of his entries this week.  Very sweet, and very challenging.
• And, FiddleDeeDee's "Crime and Punishment" post was just too cute, and quite thought provoking.
• Finally, The Preacher's Wife continues to bless me with her I AM study, but as a mother of my own little Princess (aka: DRAMA DIVA), I have to say this post left me grinning from ear to ear!  I can SO relate my Sistah!! (and BTW: This Princess comes complete with her own Tanner the Dog, although not purchased by Mom and Dad, still a pretty tough thing to admit!)

I hope you ALL have a wonderful weekend, and if you get a few spare minutes, check these out!! See ya Monday!!

Thankful Thursday

The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.  (Psalm 28:7)

Today I am especially thankful for these things:

• SUNSHINE!! The warmth and light of the sun has so enveloped my home this morning that it feels like I nice warm hug from Jesus, himself!
• A house to finish cleaning and a yard to mow, because it means that I am getting ready for COMPANY (well, really more like family).  We are having a cook-out this evening with a few couples from our church, who also happen to be some of our most PRECIOUS FRIENDS.  I just love the fellowship of brothers and sisters in Christ!
• My WONDERFUL PARENTS, who will be keeping my kids for the weekend!  We decided instead of going "off" for our anniversary this year, we send the kids to Mom's and have fun at home...JUST US!!! Chris and I are looking forward to some quality time, dining out, and sleeping in!!
• HORSE CAMP!!! My Dad arranged for my two oldest to attend a camp next week, with their cousin Patrick, that will teach them how to groom and care for REAL LIVE HORSES!! The will even get to "ride" a little, too!! We are so excited!! I'm driving over on Monday to spend the rest of the week with them. (The little one and I will be spending our mornings floating around in the pool!!)  Pray for Chris, though...he will be home alone for five days! (Poor baby, he won't know what to do with himself!)
• EVERYDAY VICTORIES!!  Each day is a new opportunity to allow God to show up and show off!!  This is a wonderful new experience for me (truly taking life one day at a time), and I hope that I never get enough of it!!

Y'all have a great day now, and don't forget to visit Iris at Sting My Heart for more TT posts, or if you would like to share your own thankful heart!

I AM - Lesson 8: Instrument of Wonders

Have I told you girls how very much this study is blessing me??  Seriously, THE GREAT I AM is meeting me right where I am in this thing!!

Some of you may know that my latest memory verse has been Philippians 3:10 (Amplified Version), from a Beth Moore Webcast that I recently heard.

"My determined purpose is to know Him, to progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him; perceiving, recognizing, and understanding the WONDERS of His person".

Coincidence??? I THINK NOT!!! (BTW: I do not believe there is any such thing in the life of a Christian...only GOD-incidences!!)

As Lisa began speaking to our habits of holding on to our pasts, and allowing them to hold us back, I felt like I was going to come up out of this chair!!  I am so guilty of this, but it's time to LET GO of my past, and LET GOD transform it for His Glory!! Amen!!!

With that in mind, I would like to share with you my answers to the discussion questions:

1. Have you ever been in a situation where you had to 'go back' to a place of shame or ridicule? How did that make you feel?

Yes, unfortunately I have, but it was all for God's glory!  As I spoke of last time, I endured some pretty painful circumstances back in college, one in particular.  It happened while I was visiting a friend at another school out of town.  A year later, I was asked to go back and give my testimony (concerning this experience) at an FCA meeting on this SAME campus.  I was very nervous and unsure.  Scared to death, really.  Then when I got there I found out that this group was much larger than the  BSU group at my school (we averaged around 40-50 students).  This FCA was a group of 500!! I felt so unworthy, and I questioned what in the world the Lord must be thinking.  Through it all, hearts were touched, and I believe lives were changed.   The main one being mine.  You see, this was part of my healing and restoration process.  Had I not jumped this hurdle, I could not have moved on to experience His full deliverance.

2. Is there any circumstance in your life that still has you running for cover? Share if you feel comfortable.

I am scared to death of falling back into the pit.  I've had several in my lifetime.  Pits of shame and depression (see above) and pits of sin due to my own rebellion.  Now that I am finally learning how to live and REMAIN out of the pit, I am ever wary of finding myself right back down at the bottom.  Not that this is necessarily a bad thing, I mean, I think we should always be alert and aware where the enemy is concerned.  But if I continue to look behind me and focus where I've been, it impairs my vision for where I should be going.  It's like my little Sam when he is being chased by his big brother.  He is so busy looking behind him, trying to see where Jacob is, that he runs smack dab into things that are in front of him, causing a lot of pain.  The devil has had me focused on my past for far too long.  I don't want to run anymore.  I want to walk, surely and confidently in the paths through which My Savior leads me, holding His hand all the way.

3. When is the last time you felt like an overcomer?

Really it was last week.  In this post, I explained how I had a little "spell", that in the past would have kept me in a "funk" for days.  But through all that I am learning by studying the precious Bread of Life, I was able to shake it off and be victorious!  Rather than be intimidated, I took the serpent by the tail, and God showed up!! I danced my self silly in the kitchen, praising and thanking my King for empowering me to be "more than a conqueror".  Thanks to this study, and other books that I am reading, He is ON THE THRONE, where he ought to be.  The Lamb Has Overcome!!!  (Can you hear me singing Nise'???;-)) And in Him, so can I!!

4. If you have not yet taken the serpent by the tail, are you willing to stop running, take hold and trust God to transform it into a tool for wonders?

Yes!!! Oh Lord, I want to know YOU and the WONDERS of your person!!!  My heart's desire is that You will transform my fears, and insecurities into tools that You use for YOUR GLORY to show those SAME WONDERS to a lost and dying world!!  Use ME Jesus!!

5. I would like for you to write down this statement based on 1 John 2:14 somewhere you will see it often this week: "I am strong, the Word of God abides in me, and I have overcome the evil one." Memorize it. Say it over and over until you believe it. Will you do this?? Most of the time, there are no right or wrong answers, but on this one, I'm expecting a 'yes'!

ABSOLUTELY!!! Yes!! Even now, I am pulling out an index card to add this phrase to my prayer/scripture memory wall.  Thank you SO MUCH for this!! I'll recite it every morning, and every time I hear that serpent hissing!!

How to Love a Guy in Nine Years

Today is our 9th anniversary. I just wanted to take a minute to tell you the top 9 reasons I love being married to this man...

9) He makes an awesome peach cobbler!

8) He takes care of me. Not only does he work hard to provide for us, but he also does the little things, like getting the oil changed in my van. He makes me feel so safe, secure, and loved!

7) No matter where I am or what I am doing, he finds subtle little ways to remind me how much he loves me.

6) He is the most patient guy I know.

5) I love snuggling and watching movies with him.

4) He's beautiful!

3) His quiet strength melts my heart.

2) He loves The Lord, me, and our children with every fiber of his being, and everything he does shows it! I love that he strives to live his life as a true man of God.

1) He's my KISA!!

I love you, Baby!! ...and I look forward to many more wonderful years with you.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!

Week 6 - May Day Challenge

Well Gals,

I am at Mom's this week, so I had to weigh on her scales. Although it may not be completely accurate, for posterity's sake, I wanted to stay on track and give my report anyway. I am up another pound this week. (Which probably means that I have lost a couple since last week, but since I didn't weigh...I guess we'll never know! ;-))

I should probably remove my "I've lost five pounds" button, since I now (technically) have only lost three from my start weight. Thing is, since I've got my new blog design, I'm scared to go in and mess with the code...afraid of fouling things up.

So, in the spirit of truthfulness and integrity, I will just resign myself to working extra hard (that is to say "work my butt off"...in the very literal sense...) next week to "earn back" my button.
My diet still needs some tweaking. Ever since vacation, will power seems to have escaped me. (If anyone finds good ole "Will" could you send him back my weigh, sorry WAY??)

I have begun exercising more though. (Yahoo-jah! Been struggling with this one!) Dancing with the kids, and swimming. I swam laps yesterday for a solid thirty-five minutes, not to mention all the playing we did for hours in the pool.

In the middle of this journey that feels a lot like the game "Whack-a-Mole" (you know, the game where you hit the little critters and when you finally get one down, another pops right back up??) I'm learning that it's all about attitude and life-style changes. So I will take every little victory I can get, and press on for more!

Looking forward to great results next week...for everyone!!

Father's Day Post

Daddy used to always tell us (three girls) that he was the #1 Man in our lives, and the ONLY man that would never let us down.  As we have grown, we now have "New #1s", (sorry Dad, it's that whole "leave and cleave" thing...) but you will always be special. 

It is with that same sentiment,  that I would like to take just a minute to thank God for these two WONDERFUL MEN and the blessings they are to my life...

To My Daddy:

Thanks for being the best Daddy a girl could ever ask for!!  Your love was the first "constant" in my life, and because of you, I will always live by the standard "Nothing But A Lady". (Proverbs 31)  I couldn't be the wife I am today without your unconditional love and support as a teenager, and the wonderful example of what a marriage relationship should be like. 

I thank God for you and the blessing you have been to me.  (You also ROCK as a Papa!!! We love you SO much!!!)

 

 

To My KISA and the "Daddy" of my children:

How could I have ever asked for more??  You are such a wonderful husband and father.  We are truly blessed by your love, provision and leadership in our home.  You are "Simply the Best"!!!

The way you take time with each one of our little blessings, just melts my heart.  I know that you love them, and me, with every fiber of your being... and that everything you do, you do FOR US!!

I love you so very much, and I praise God for letting me chase you (back in college) until you caught me!! You are THE MAN, Baby!!

HAPPY FATHERS DAY!!!!!!

Sick and Tired...

Hey ya'll...

I humbly ask for your prayers today.

Sam began running a fever last night with some upper respiratory issues he's had going on since Wednesday. Em awoke this morning with MAJOR sinus congestion. And me...I'm just plum tuckered-out.

I don't know if it was being gone all last week, and trying my best to get back in the swing of things with chores and laundry, or if I am trying to come down with the "Crud", too...whatever it is, I just don't feel so spiffy today.

I am also sick and tired of that nasty little devil trying to sink his claws into me. I'm out of the pit, right???

Haven't seen the Gorilla for days...

Then...last night.

I have been really trying to be disciplined with my computer time and more attentive to my children and my managing my home while they are home for the summer. Also, trying to plan my work and work my plan with my MK business to get this new year (our business year ends this month) started off with a bang.

Well, with Samuel not feeling well, I didn't do a whole lot yesterday morning but hold him and try to comfort him. I finally got him down for a nap around 2:30 (started trying around 1:00) yesterday afternoon, so I set about getting some things done. That being said, between blogging, shopping online, and MK planning, I spent WAY TOO MUCH time at the computer ...and time got away from me.

Next thing I knew, KISA (and btw: this may be TMI, but I just want Deborah to know that he actually IS an excellent kisser, despite the actual meaning of the acronym!;-)) is walking through the door with his usual "HELLO BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE" greeting. He walks over to Emilee and hugs her and says, "Where's Mama?". To which she replies, "On the computer...WHERE SHE HAS BEEN ALL DAY". Ya'll, can I just say THE TRUTH HURTS!!

You know that I have been having some AWESOME moments with Jesus and his Word by the things I have posted recently...so I guess I should have seen it coming...

Well, I've had enough of it. And apparently so has Chris, because as soon as I started my little "Whoa-is-me-I'm-a-terrible-Mother" Pity Party, he CRANKED UP THE PRAISE MUSIC!!! (We heard a preacher say one time that when we lift our hands in praise, it's like giving the devil a swift kick in the pants and telling him to GET OUT MY HOUSE!!!!) So we did. And he did.

CECE WINANS lyrics

Bless God, He and I have worked too hard getting me out of that pit, I am not going to let that sneaky little pest trip me up with the banana peel of "self incrimination". I had my "spell", gathered my children in my arms and loved on them, then spent some time in counsel with my sweet husband, and got RIGHT back up on BOTH feet... still planted firmly on THE ROCK!! Amen! Thank you, Jesus!!

I'm just plain sick and tired of the whole mess, and I am determined to live my purpose...

My determined purpose is that I may know Him. That I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him - perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His person. --Philippians 3:10 (Amplified Bible)

No. matter.what.

Take these shackles of my feet, Lord! I want to DANCE the dance of PRAISE!!! (Yeah, I'm Baptist...So???)

Blessings on your weekend!! See you Monday!

Thankful Thursday

Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.

For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations. (Psalm 100:4-5)

As I contemplate my items of thankfulness this morning, songs of deliverance permeate my being:

"My heart and flesh cry out / To you the living God / Your spirit's water to my soul / I've tasted and I've seen / Come once again to me/ I will draw near to you"... (Better is One Day - Matt Redman/Kutless)

"You are my shield / My strength, my portion / Deliverer, my Shelter, Strong Tower / My very present help in time of need." (Miriam Webster/Travis Cotrell)

"Your grace is enough / Heaven reaching down to us / Your grace is enough for me / God, I see your grace is enough / I'm covered in your love / Your grace is enough for me..." (Matt Mayer/Chris Tomlin)

It is with this heart of praise that I offer these thanks today:

• I am thankful for my three precious children. Even when they are fussing/arguing over who gets to do what next, I am blessed beyond measure with the privilege of mothering them.
• Since I didn't get to do my usual "Birthday Post" while we were on vacation, I want to take time here to express special thanks for little Samuel. It is hard for me to believe that he is already three years old. It seems like just yesterday that I was bed-ridden, awaiting his arrival. He has added so much joy to an already over-flowing heart, with his sweet smile, sensitive nature, and loving heart. I love his most recent way of expressing that heart...by walking up to me with his sweet little eyes aglow, wrapping his arms around my neck, and whispering "I Wuv you Mom". (And we were worried about his speech!?! Isn't God good???) What a precious gift!! I love you, little man!!
• I am thankful for my KISA and all that he does for me. (By the way, several of y'all have inquired as to the meaning of this term. KISA is my abbreviation for "knight in shining armor".) I have no idea where I would be today without him. His love makes me a better woman. He truly is my "little piece of Jesus" right here on Earth!
• I am thankful for a wonderful vacation at the beach with my family last week, and a wonderful start to the summer. And although it has been quite rainy this week, we desperately needed a good soaking. (Thankful again!) And how else would I obtain the privilege of listening to my beautiful blessings bicker all day long??? (Now that's what you call giving thanks in ALL circumstances!! ;-))
• I am thankful for all of the beautiful encouragers God has placed in my life. Whether it be a call from my dear friend across town, or a blog comment/email from a sweet sister across the globe...I am truly blessed!!! "As iron sharpens iron, so one (sister) sharpens another".
• I am thankful for His Deliverance, and the fact that I have finally recognized what it takes to GET OUT OF THAT PIT and stay out!! Thank You, Jesus!!! (Please pray that I don't stumble back into old temptations to "wallow" and "sulk" when adversity arises.)
• I am thankful for the "new song" Jesus has put in my mouth. By that I mean that he has raised the bar for my personal worship and praise. (Those of you who go to church with me may be thinking, "Could she praise any more demonstratively?? Could she worship with any more passion???" ...Well, just hang on to your hat! I have NO IDEA where this is going to take me, but I know that I am all for the ride, and if He calls me to be even more "undignified", so be it!!)

If you would like to participate in Thankful Thursdays, please visit Iris at Sting My Heart. Have a blessed day!!!

Divine Deliverance: My Epiphany

I am almost finished reading Get Out of that Pit by Beth Moore.  I cannot find the words to tell you how deeply this book has impacted my life!  (As my dear brother would say, "An epiphany has struck my brain"!!)

I have been a pit-dweller for most of my adult life.  When I was in college, a series of traumatic events so beset me that I thought I was going to drown.  I literally wished to die, and on a couple of occasions thought of taking my own life.  God had a system of built-in defenses at my rescue however, and my life went on. 

I am so grateful to have given my heart to Jesus at the tender age of eight.  Had I not had such a firm foundation, I doubt I would  be here today.  I would have never had the wisdom, or the courage at that oh so difficult point in my life to cry out to my God for deliverance.  It is my testimony of faith in times of trial.

Why then, as someone who has such an awesome recollection of the hand of God on her life, among others, is it still so hard for me to surrender?? To consent to His will??  How did I become so content with life in a pit???  The answer is quite simple really...I have been deceived!!

John 10:10 describes the thief who comes to steal, kill, and destroy.  For me, this destruction stems from the trauma of my youth and my feelings of unworthiness.  I wish I could tell you that I was completely innocent in this whole process, that I was pushed into the pit, rather than falling in, or jumping in of my own volition.  Sadly, that is not the case.  But Miss Beth has made it abundantly clear that no matter how I got in the pit (or in so many instances, kept returning...) My Deliverer awaits my cry.  He longs to rescue me.  All He needs is green light from me.  It can't and won't happen until I CRY OUT TO HIM!

The devil has been so good at making me think that I deserved the pit.  That this is "as good as it gets" for me. I've been rescued before, only to find my way right back in.  Somehow that slick little snake has gotten me to believe that the pit is where I belong.  LIAR!!! Not just any liar...THE FATHER OF LIES!!  But no more!  I am through listening to his pitiful persuasion.  God is NOT FINISHED with me yet, and I cannot give up! I will not!!  For crying out loud, I've still got loving, mothering, ministering... and LIVING to do!!

That same verse (John 10:10) says that Jesus came to give us life...not just any life, but LIFE TO THE FULL!!  Life that is FREE from strongholds, and lifted out of the muck and the mire.  Life that is lived planted firmly on the Rock of my Salvation, and no matter what circumstances may come my way, to keep standing and not fall for another lie of the devil! 

Oh hear my cry Sweet Jesus!!! Pull me out of the pit once and for all, and set my feet upon The Rock!  Give me a firm place to stand!! I have made up my mind that I all I want, and all I need is YOU!! That's what it's all about anyway...not so much being delivered, but knowing My Deliverer. 

I need YOU Jesus...nothing else...no one else...JUST YOU!!! 

Put a new song in my mouth Lord. Let me sing it with all my being for Your Glory!  It is my desire that through my deliverance, many will come to see You and fear You Lord,  and put their trust in You and You alone! (Psalm 40:3) Let it be, Dear Lord, let it be!!!

(How about you?  Have you been delivered?  If so, I'd love to hear your story.  Or could it be that you have found yourself in your own pit, and are in need of his deliverance???  Cry out Sweet Friend!  Make up your mind this minute, and cry out!!)

Back In the Saddle Again...

Okay girls, I have a confession to make. I didn't want to hear the scale's tale today so I didn't even step on it...not even one. little. pinky. toe.

One of the many flaws I own is that I am very easily discouraged. Knowing that I completely BLEW IT last week (despite your wonderful words of encouragement and ideas for success while on vacation) gave me the willies. I was afraid if I had gained more than a pound or two that I would "give up"...for the fourteenth-hundred time in my life. So instead of doing so, I simply chose not to weigh today.

I have basically started over. Today is a new day!! His mercies are new EVERY morning, and I can do ALL THINGS through Christ!! (If I sound repetitive, I am sorry...I am sure I have quoted those scriptures before, but those words are more for my benefit than yours...repetition is a necessity for thick skulls like mine!)

So, while I am listening to Gene Autry sing in my ear (who knew gypsum weed was the secret to weight-loss???), I have decided to do what Mama always said..."Don't give up!!! If you fall of the horse, just get up, dust yourself off, and climb right back on!!"

Thanks, Mama!!!

Just Had to Share!

Okay y'all...I usually don't post twice in one day, and I have never participated in the Marriage Monday Blog Meme, but I think today is the day!! Well actually, I just wanted to share some blogs with you that I came across this morning that really spoke to me on the issue(s) of marriage. Amberly and Alycia had some wonderful posts!!

This is even more "God-incidental" because Pastor Howard started a sermon series yesterday on Marriage and Family. His first installment was called "Making Love Last Forever". You can read more about it here. (Had to give the KISA a plug, too!! I mean, it is a "marriage thing"...ha ha!!).

Isn't it great when God reaffirms His truths like this??? I'm blown away!!

I AM - Lesson Seven "Who Am I?"

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS and ANSWERS:

1. How would you answer the questions, "Who Am I?"

 I am a wife and mother, daughter, sister and friend.  But most importantly I am a born again child of the King, who has called me according to his purposes and will for my life.  On my own I am NOTHING...but in and through Him, I can accomplish all things for His glory.

I am reminded of the 5 statement pledge of faith from Believing God: (#s 3 and 4 specifically...)

1.  God is who He says He is.

2. God can do what He says He can do.

3. I am who God says I am.

4. I can do all things through Christ.

5. His word is alive and active in me.

2. Have you ever been in a situation where you felt inadequate because of your lack of a 'tagline'? 

Absolutely!  I feel that way almost every day.  I stand in awe that he has chosen me to mother these three precious souls, and be the help-mate (aka: "ezer kenegdo", which literally means "life saver") of this wonderful man that He has recently called into His ministry.  So many times I look up to him and say "Who am I that you should give me such gifts??? Who am I that you are mindful of me???"  It is then that He gently reminds me, it's not about WHO I am, but WHOSE I am. I've been bought with a price!!!  I am HIS!!!!

3. Do you have skills or position that you believe God could use mightily if only He would?

I learned a long time ago that it is not about what I think.  His ways are not my ways, and His thoughts are not my thoughts.  God uses the foolish things of the world to confound the wise. 

I am very wary of becoming proud of myself or any gift that I feel He may have given me.  It is then, that I begin to think that I am the one who is in control, the one who is making things happen.  And guess what??? Every time I think like that, I find myself flat on my face...realizing that it's NOT about ME...It's ALL about HIM!!!  I surrender all that I am, and all that I have to HIS GLORY.  That's the ONLY way it works!!!

4. Have you ever lost a position or station in life you believe could have 'helped God out' with something He has asked you to do? If you haven't lost out, do you perhaps feel you have to gain this in order to be useful to the Kingdom?

See previous answer...(it's not about anything I have or anything I am...it's all about WHOSE I am and WHO HE IS!!!)

Reminds me of a song:

"Not because of what I am, but because of what you've done...Not because of what I've done, but because of who you are"!!!

(BTW: I've been humming this song in my head throughout this entire post!)

 

5. How are you with your dialogue vs. doubt conversations with God? Which does God hear most from you?

I must admit, God hears a lot of doubt...a lot of "are you sure you want ME to do this???"..."but God, I'm so unworthy"..."there are so many others much more qualified"..."they deserve better than me"...

But here's the thing...it's when we are the most humble and broken that He is able to FILL us with HIS SPIRIT and accomplish HIS tasks through us for HIS glory.  Otherwise, it would be me again, taking all the credit...and what would that be worth?? I'll tell you... wood, hay and straw. I don't know about you, but I don't want my offerings to be burned through the trial of fire.  I want Him to receive all the GOLD, SILVER and PRECIOUS STONES He deserves! 

6. Do you believe God's Wonders become more wonderful if they originate in the ordinary? Any Scripture references come to mind?

I sure do!!  I'll refer back to the scripture I used in question one:

Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord." - 1 Corinthians 1:26-31

Home Again!!

Hello again to all my bloggin' buddies and "sistas", as well as family and friends !! It sure is good to be home!!
I am happy to report that a great time was had by all at Sunset Beach, NC this past week. Got a WHOLE LOTTA unpackin' to do, but I have listed some highlights of our week as well as featured a slideshow below.

• Emilee continued to hone her mad skilz as a "Little Surfer Girl"
• Jacob may be well on his way to becoming the next Tiger Woods!! Two holes in one at the putt-putt and we hadn't even made it to the back nine!!
• Sam turned THREE on Friday!!! My "baby" is growing up!! He also has a new nick-name..."The Sandman Cowboy". All he needed was a rope, and a steer (or dolphin???). Too Cute!!
• I actually got on a boogie board this year and braved the crab, skate, and tiny little "sandshark" infested waters!! WAY MUCH FUN! (Thanks to our resident marine biologist "Uncle Buck" or setting all my fears to rest, as well as this book that my husband read an excerpt from on facing your fears HEAD ON!...Yes, the spiritual implications are endless...but I think my brain is fried from too much sun yesterday!)
• I managed to keep from getting sunburned until, that's right, the last day on the beach!!
• My KISA rocks!! Even though he had to come back home for a couple of nights to roll out a release (that is computer geek for "he had to work") I cannot imagine such a wonderful vacation without him!

Well, that's about it. Except to give a big SHOUT OUT to Uncle Buck (my bachelor youth pastor brother in the huge metropolis of Penopolis, SC... BTW...Anyone know a good girl we could send his way???) and Uncle Craig (my future bro-in-law who will be married in December to the most awesome 26 year old gal on the planet!!). YOU GUYS ARE OFF THE CHAIN!!!! Thanks so much for all you did to keep the children happy and entertained all week. Your genuine love for my children (and Betsy's, too) was so absolutely precious to observe, and we are all blessed because of it!!

I'll wrap up by saying that we had a marvelously fun, and relaxing week! Just what the doctor ordered. Thanks so much for all your prayers!!

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend, and I will catch up with you again on Monday morning.