I'll Be Sure to Tell J.R. and Sue Ellen Y'all Said Hey!

Off to the "BIG D" tomorrow and I am SO EXCITED!!!

I am going to attend Mary Kay's annual Seminar in Dallas, TX. I will be gone Tues (July 31) thru Sat (August 4). It will be a time of training and recognition for the year's accomplishments. Please pray for traveling mercies (my first time flying) and a wonderful trip. It would also be great if you would remember KISA (he will be home all alone!) and my sweet Mama who is keeping my babies at her house until Friday.

When I get back I will have bunches and bunches to share, I am sure!! Maybe you'll even get to see a picture of me in Mary Kay's pink bathtub!! ;-)

I'll be missing May Day, Thankful Thursday and I AM for this week, but I will be back in full swing next Monday. Be blessed and have a great week!!

***Side Note***
Our SFBC Bloggers are doing great!! We learned all about RSS last week and had them begin subscribing to different blogs. Last night, Chris introduced them to Blogger and had them set up a blog. Some of them (Paula, Emily, Josh) are already up and LOOKIN' GREAT!! You guys ROCK!!! See you Sunday!!

Also, any SFBCers who want to go to UNLEASHED '08 be sure to sign up on the church website, or give Chris/Michelle a call!! We have to have our money in by Sept. 30 for the early registration, so don't wait!! Sign up today... YOU'LL BE SO GLAD YOU DID!!!

And Now, The Moment You've All Been Waiting For...

Drum roll please...

The Captivating book goes to Gretchen at Quantum Leap!

You were the 18th comment, and KISA's random number generator picked 17...which was HIM!! I am not making this up!!! SO...because he is family he is automatically disqualified, along with the fact that he was only joking! That leaves YOU (#18) the winner!! Congratulations!! Santa came early this year, babe!!!

And the winner of the fabulous Mary Kay prizes is #162 - Loni at My Little Blogging Home! (Which is also cool, because you already had your colors all picked out!! Hooray!!)

I will be contacting the winners via email to get addresses so that I can ship these out to you on Monday.

Thank you all for playing, and thanks to Shannon at Rocks In My Dryer for being the hostess with the most-est!!!

You're all winners in my book!!

(Note: All you Mary Kay fans: be on the lookout for a follow-up post...COMING SOON!!!)

Thankful Thursday - JOY!

Psalm 5:11

But let all who take refuge in you be glad;
       let them ever sing for joy.
       Spread your protection over them,
       that those who love your name may rejoice in you.

Psalm 16:11

You have made known to me the path of life;
       you will fill me with joy in your presence,
       with eternal pleasures at your right hand.

Psalm 19:8

The precepts of the LORD are right,
       giving joy to the heart.
       The commands of the LORD are radiant,
       giving light to the eyes.

A long time ago in Bible School, I learned a little acronym for keeping your priorities in order and having joy in your life. 

Wanna hear it??? Here it goes...

Jesus, Others, Yourself

I am going to use this little acrostic for my "thankfuls" today:

• How can I not be thankful for JESUS!! He is my EVERYTHING!! My Creator, Author, and the Finisher of my faith.  My Hero, my Rescuer, my Dearest Friend.  My Lord, My Savior and My Redeemer!! My Portion, My Vision, and My Strength!! Oh how I love My Jesus!!
• I am so very thankful for the OTHERS that Jesus has put in my life.  First and foremost my KISA and my beloved children.  My life is SO FULL because of these sweet blessings!!! My beautiful Mom and wonderful Dad, what a blessing to be raised in a godly home and still have their models of strength and faith to follow.  My brother and sisters (and BILs) who share my love for Jesus and the wonderful bond of family.  My awesome church family...SFBC ROCKS!!! My wonderful friends!!  Where would I be without you??? You gals encourage me and sustain me daily.  I love you all!!
• I am thankful for all of the opportunities that God has opened up for ME.  I am thankful that God has called us into His Ministry and for the doors that He has opened and will open to us as we step out in faith toward His vision and plan for our lives. I am thankful for my MK business and how God is blessing it before I even ask Him!  I am thankful for the opportunity to go to Dallas next week (please pray for me...I've NEVER flown before!! ---much less been that far away from my babies!) to learn more about this business and the woman Mary Kay, as well as spend time with my wonderful director and MK Sisters.  I am thankful for the things that God is teaching me every day through His word that show me how to be a better wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend.

With all of these wonderful blessings how can I not have JOY??? How can I not be JOYFUL!!!  What a Mighty God we serve!!! "How can I Keep From Singing Your Praise", Jesus????

What gives you JOY?? ...What are YOU thankful for??? Stop by Sting My Heart and let us know!! (We're thankful that you're back Iris...We missed you and love you so!)

May Day Challenge - Week Eleven

First of all, I want to thank you guys for all your encouragement during my low spot last week.  You really lifted me up with your kind comments!!

Secondly, I want to say that YOU WERE RIGHT!! Many of you told me not to despair, that sooner or later it would "click" and all my hard work would pay off.  When I weighed in this morning I had lost 3 POUNDS!!! YAY!!!

The weird thing is that I was more lax with my exercise this week, and I still saw results!?! Go figure!!

So I have decided that my problem is that I have been taking myself way too seriously, and that I just need to ease up and take it ONE DAY AT A TIME (Sweet Jesus!!!) Can I get an amen??

So thanks for all your love and support.  I am so glad we are in this thing together!!

By the way, how'd you do???

P.S. - Sorry I am so late in posting this.  I got so caught up in the Bloggerific Giveaway over at Rocks' Place that I forgot yesterday was TUESDAY!!! Way too much fun!!

Because I Stinkin' Just Can't Help Myself!!

 ...and because this is SO MUCH FUN!!...

...and because the Bible says that God loves a cheerful giver...

...I am going to post a 2nd giveaway, in addition to the book Captivating: Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul by John and Staci Eldredge, that I posted this morning!

I don't know why I didn't think of this sooner, but I am going to give a FREE Lipstick AND Lipgloss (in the colors of your choosing)to a lucky gal (or maybe a lucky guy looking to impress his lucky gal) who comments this post!!  Just visit my MK Website to pick 'em out!!

Hurry and enter because all comments will be closed at 5:00 pm on Friday, July 27.

Now you can be "captivating" inside and out!! :-)

It's a Dog-gone Giveaway!!!

Shannon over at Rocks In My Dryer is hosting a summer giveaway at her blog this week. I have decided to participate and give away a free copy of the book Captivating: Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul by John and Staci Eldredge.

This book so impacted my life three years ago, how can I resist the opportunity to share it with one of you, my sweet blogistas??? It truly transformed my view of myself as a woman, and as a child of the King! I am beautiful because I am HIS!! It is my passionate desire to reflect His beauty to those in my world and circle of influence. (Now you know why the name of my blog is Truly Captivating!!)

So, if you'd like to be entered in the drawing this Friday (July 27), all you have to do is leave a comment on this post!! And if you would like to participate in the giveaway you better act fast!! There has been such a huge response that Shannon will be closing the links on Wednesday!! So hurry and get on over there!!

Blessings to all!!

Music Monday - In Christ Alone

For those of you that don't know, KISA has begun a Music Monday theme over at his blog. I felt froggy this week so I decided to chime in.

I first heard this song (you guessed it!) in a Newspring service that I watched online. Then Rosangela sang it again at the Unleashed Conference. It has fast become one of my favorite praise songs EVER!

I have asked the leader of our praise band to learn it so we can sing it at our church. ONE OF THESE DAYS he may actually get around to downloading it so he can do just that!! (I love you George!!)

I've posted the lyrics below (it was written by Keith and Kristyn Getty), and I have added it to my playlist so you can get the full effect. No offense, but the Geoff Moore version doesn't even come close to Rosangela's rendition (you can check it out here)...maybe it's because I can't see the passion and love for Jesus on their faces, like I could hers. At any rate, it's AMAZING what God can do with such a willing vessel! Seriously, can you spell G-O-O-S-E-B-U-M-P-S????

Then to top it all off, when I went to see Beth Moore back in April, Travis Cottrell sang it there, too!! I'm telling you, this song is POWERFUL!!!

In Christ alone my hope is found
He is my light, my strength, my song
This Cornerstone, this solid ground
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm
What heights of love, what depths of peace
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease
My Comforter, my All in All
Here in the love of Christ I stand

In Christ alone, who took on flesh
Fullness of God in helpless babe
This gift of love and righteousness
Scorned by the ones He came to save
'Till on that cross as Jesus died
The wrath of God was satisfied
For every sin on Him was laid
Here in the death of Christ I live

There in the ground His body lay
Light of the world by darkness slain
Then bursting forth in glorious Day
Up from the grave He rose again
And as He stands in victory
Sin's curse has lost it's grip on me
For I am His and He is mine
Brought with the precious blood of Christ

No guilt in life, no fear in death
This is the power of Christ in me
From life's first cry to final breath
Jesus commands my destiny
No power of hell, no scheme of man
Can ever pluck me from His hand
'Till He returns or calls me home
Here in the power of Christ I'll stand

Amen!!! What more can I say but AMEN, Jesus? AMEN!!!

Weekend Review

We had a whirlwind of a weekend, and I just wanted to let everyone know I am still here!

The kids and I went to Nana and Papa's on Thursday for more summer fun in the pool! Yee-haw! Needless to say we are all sporting SERIOUS sun-tans!! (We are going to start calling Sam "Golden Boy" since his hair is golden blonde and his skin is golden brown!)

We drove home Friday evening, and Emilee and I headed straight to the church to set up my room and get it decorated for VBS. Our church changed things up this summer with an all-day Saturday event due to limited space while under construction. (We are building a new sanctuary, and renovating existing space for a new fellowship hall and more class room areas.) Attendance was a little down this year but we had a blast!

We began at 9:00 am and ran until 4:00 pm. Our theme was GAME DAY CENTRAL, and our day was full of sports and play as we learned how to be members of God's team and how to be true heroes by following HIS plans for our lives! We had a jump-slide and obstacle course for everyone to enjoy and there was even a visit from an ice cream truck at the end of the day! It was awesome.

This mornings 8:30 worship service continued the excitement. Our praise band rocked, and we worshiped God in spirit and in truth! The Spirit in that church was amazing! Then Jeffery gave a wonderful sermon from the book of Hosea. He preached from his heart, and God showed up and showed out! The service tonight was great, too. He preached on authenticity as a Christian and how we need to be REAL to the world. We need to put away our masks and facades, and BE THE WAY WE WERE MADE!

(Oh yeah, and our second week of blog class went well, too! We learned all about RSS feeds! YAY! More on that later this week...)

It's been an extremely busy but great weekend, and as you can imagine, I am T-I-R-E-D! I am about to go pour myself into bed right now, but before I do, I wanted to shoot out a quick update, and give Jesus ALL THE PRAISE AND ALL THE GLORY for the things HE HAS DONE!

I also need to send a shout-out to Kim, my VBS co-teacher for this year. YOU ROCK GIRLFRIEND!

'Nighty-night y'all!

Thankful Thursday

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. (Colossians 3:15-16)

• I am thankful for my awesome church, and others like it, where Christ is preached, people are loved, and souls are saved!
• I am thankful for my wonderful Pastor (and his precious wife)who celebrated his/their 30th year in the ministry on Monday.
• I am thankful for him, and for other pastors who preach God's word with boldness and surrender their hearts and lives completely to Him.  They serve as awesome examples to me of what it truly means to be SOLD OUT for Jesus!
• I am thankful for my KISA who knows me better than anyone else on this planet, and loves me in spite of it!  He is my hero, my sweetheart, my lover, and my best friend.  I am so excited about the things that God is doing in our lives, and I can't wait to see what He unfolds for our future!
• I am thankful for my three precious children, who sing worship songs to the top of their lungs (how could they not with ME as their Mama?!) as I am cooking supper each evening, or when we are riding around town doing errands.  They teach me more about blind faith than I could ever teach them.  Thank you JESUS for blessing me so abundantly through these my little ones!
• I am thankful for my sweet friends who bless me with their phone calls, emails and cards.  To know that others are lifting you up in prayer is more than a blessing...it's a true miracle!
• I am thankful for my Jesus.  He rescued me; scooped me up out of the muck and mire of the pit and set me firmly on the rock of His precious Word.  I am thankful for that Word that renews my mind daily.  I am thankful that it's not about how I feel. It's all about what I KNOW, and "I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I've committed unto him against that day"!!! AMEN!!
• I am thankful for Laurel Wreath who is hosting this week's Thankful Thursday while Iris (blessings to you sweet one) is on a blog break.  Be sure to stop by and let us know what YOU are thankful for today!

Battling???

Over the past couple of weeks, I have been struggling with knowing and doing God's will for my life. I've been engaged in an intense battle with the enemy who has caused me to doubt God's purpose and plan for my life, and even His power and provision to see those plans through to fruition. This post was one of those times that I fleshed that battle out here on my blog.

Today, as I was carrying out my desire to "be still" and allow God to speak his word to my heart, I downloaded a couple of sermons to listen to as I went about my daily chores. (Well, let's just say that I didn't get much done because I was glued to the laptop and soaking up The Word).

Can I just say that GOD NEVER CEASES TO AMAZE ME??? If I say, "Lord I am so thirsty", He gives me Living Water to quench that thirst. If I tell him I am starving for His word, that is when He provides me with the sweetest morsels that nourish my soul and bless my spirit!

You all know how Chris and I feel about NewSpring Church in Anderson, SC. (There has been no shortage of links to NewSpring or Perry Noble here). Besides our own precious church here in Flo-town, it's pastors and ministries have blessed us beyond measure.

The two sermons I listened to today were NO exception. God continues to use this church to impact Anderson, SC and my life in great and powerful ways. The first sermon (by Perry) was on Spiritual Warfare, and God used it to speak some truths to my heart out of the book of Nehemiah. Basically he told me that He has given me a GREAT WORK to do, and I need to quit letting the devil distract me and discourage me.

The other sermon (still at NewSpring) was delivered by Pastor Steven Furtick who is the lead pastor at Elevation Church in Charlotte, NC. He preached that "God's Promise is Bigger than My Perhaps", taking the story of Jonathan and his armor bearer, out of 1 Samuel, to a whole new level for me.

Both of these messages shot straight to the heart of many of my "issues" as of late in my own personal journey with the Lord. But they also addressed some things that my church is facing with the building of a new worship facility and a heart to see our town rocked for Jesus. God is SO GOOD, and He continues to bless me with exactly what I need, exactly when I need it!

I am overwhelmed! ...Overjoyed! ...Overflowing with the awesome power of my Jesus! I'm ready to do WHATEVER IT TAKES to glorify and honor HIM with my life! Thank you Lord for setting the record straight, and for flying in the face of my enemy! You are so AWESOME!! There truly is NONE like you!!

So if you are battling with any of the same things that have been plaguing my heart, check these sermons out! And bless you Perry and Steven for being obedient to the Heart of God and allowing Him to speak through you to totally ROCK MY WORLD!!

Blogging 101 - Part Two

Hey yall!  Just wanted to let you know that Diann (a new blogger and friend) has a wonderful post on blogging that I highly recommend.  For those in our class, it is a great piece to help you find your "niche" and for others of us, it's a great reminder as to why we started this whole thing to begin with.

Thanks to all of my Blogistas (no blogothers have responded) for your wonderful comments!  I knew you'd come through with flying colors!!

And SFBC folks, don't forget your homework!!

A bloggerific day to you all!!

May Day, May Day!!!

It's week ten and I am crashing!!!

To say I am discouraged would be a gross understatement.  I followed my plan more closely last week than I have since we started, and I exercised 5 days out of the week (30 minutes each day).  So could someone please tell me how in the world I GAINED A POUND???

Sisters and friends I need your prayers.  I can't remember the last time I had THIS MUCH difficulty getting the weight off. It's like I am taking one step forward and two steps back for some reason.  Initially I had commitment issues, but I have been much more intentional and focused lately.  I just don't get it!! Does  anyone have any helpful suggestions??

I am drinking water like a fish, and taking a multi-vitamin.  I haven't been writing things down like I should (still can't get myself back into that "groove") but I know that my choices have been much healthier than earlier in the summer, and I have been limiting portions.

I was hoping to have at least shed a pound or two, but no such luck.

I am trying to stay focused, but it is so hard!  I just want to throw my hands up in the air and quit! But I know I can't do that, because that is what the enemy wants.  Interestingly, I read this excerpt from He Speaks To Me by Priscilla Shirer yesterday.  I think God was preparing me in advance for this morning's scale tale.  The following passage from chapter nine (page 101) is based on these verses of scripture.

"Running to win means dying to the flesh by not letting sin reign in your body (Romans 6:12).  As Christians, we have a responsibility to die to the flesh daily, to let go of these things that distracts us from our relationship with the Lord.  For me, gluttony is a sin that is a constant struggle".

As I read those words I spoke aloud, "Amen Sistah!!  I feel your pain!" She went on to say...

"God has dealt with me on this.  Every day I must die to my desire to eat more than I need.  I am not always successful, but I know that denying myself the extra helpings will ultimately make me a better example of how God's children should live.  As I get more into the habit of sacrificing my selfish desires in this area,  it becomes easier.  But I suspect gluttony will always be a problem for me.

You may not identify with my particular temptation, but unless you are chiseled from granite, you have to deal with your own.  What sins do you have to crucify daily?  It helps to call them by the same name the Bible does.  Notice I didn't say that I have a healthy appetite; I said I have a problem with gluttony.  Just like me, you need to know what tempts you to sin and be intentional about dealing with it".

Father I humbly approach your throne of grace now, asking you to gird me up with your strength and power.  I confess to you that I cannot win this race on my own.  I can't even run it without you.  Thank you father for the words of encouragement and inspiration that you have imparted to me through Priscilla's book and help me God to apply this teaching to my life.  Your word tells me that I need to "purify myself from everything that contaminates my body and my spirit" and that I am to put away anything that distracts me from knowing you and your will for my life.  Lord, I want to be healthy.  I want to be holy; set apart for your use.  I want this for me, and my testimony...but ultimately I want it for YOUR GLORY! I am your willing vessel.  Mold me, shape me and guide me now in the paths that I should take, and strengthen me for the journey.  Amen!

Are Y'all Still Inquiring??

I mentioned in my last post that Chilihead hosted a blog carnival last month titled "Inquiring Minds Want to Know: Your Blogging Story Carnival". Since we just started a Blogging Class at our church, and this is a great way to tell others why I blog, I figured I would finally get around to participating. Well, I guess it's better late than never, huh?? (BTW: I'm always late...it's the story of my life!)

So here goes:

How did you start blogging?

My wonderful Stupid Programmer of a husband started me out. As a stay at home mom, I always had stories to tell when he would get home from work about what the kids did that day. He'd say, "you should write those down, you're a great story teller". Then a few years ago he began blogging with his fellow programmers to keep abreast of the latest and greatest in computer development. He loved it, and before long he had me set up on MSN Spaces (because it was easy set up, and we didn't know about Blogger then) and before I knew it, I was blogging almost once a week.

Did you intend to be a blog w/a big following? If so, how did you go about it?

Really, no. I began it mostly as an online journal of sorts. A way for me to remember milestones of the children's growth, and also a way for me to process things I was learning in my daily Bible Studies. In the beginning it was mostly for me, but I also wrote in a way that would encourage/inspire others just in case anyone else was reading...

What do you hope to achieve or accomplish with your blog? Have you been successful? If not, do you have a plan to achieve those goals?

I wanted my blog to be a place that family and friends could come and see what was new with the children. My husband's family lives an hour and forty-five minutes away, and my family is an hour and fifteen minutes up the road. We don't get to see each other on a daily basis, and I thought it could be a great way for them to stay in touch. I posted pics constantly! (Still do!)

I also wanted to be a place of inspiration and encouragement for other stay at home moms. I wanted to reach out and let others know that they weren't facing the daily trials and struggles on their own. I needed to know that I wasn't alone either. (Little did I know that so many others were joining me in this!)

It has also been a place where I can work out my salvation and share all of the awesome things that God has been teaching me.

I feel that I am just beginning to reap the harvest of blessing in my blogging venture. God has given me so many Sistahs that share my common goals, interests, and experiences. I have truly found a community, a family here, and am continually blessed by it!

Has the focus of your blog changed since you started blogging? How?

A little. As I mentioned before, it started out as a "me thang". A place to have a voice and process all that was going on in my life. I have learned that God has given us power to touch lives through this medium, and I am so excited to be a part of it.

I switched over to Blogger a couple of months ago so that I could participate in the I AM Bible Study with The Preacher's Wife and Thankful Thursdays with Sting My Heart. (I was having "comment issues" over at Spaces). I feel that this move opened the door even wider for me. Not only to influence, but to be influenced by others. God is truly doing an amazing thing here, and I feel so blessed to be a part of it!

What do you know now that you wish you'd known when you started?

How big a community of Christian women were out there blogging. I only wish I could have joined this family sooner!

Do you make money with your blog?

Not yet. I do have a link to my MK Website in my sidebar, and KISA (aka Stupid Programmer, aka LetGodBeGod) and I have discussed using Google ads and starting up an Amazon book thing, but nothing has really transpired up to this point. It is a very interesting concept though!

Does your immediate or extended family know about your blog? If so, do they read it? If not, why?

Yes, I believe my Mom and my sister-in-law are subscribed via email. Both of my sisters know, and I have a short-cut to my site posted on my Dad's desktop!

I think they read it sometimes, especially when I send them an email with a link that says "Hey Y'all READ THIS!!"

What two pieces of advice would you give to a new blogger?

1) Find your voice. Don't try to be like others. Sometimes I read other blogs and think. Wow! She's good, I wish I could write like that, or be that funny, or entertaining, or whatever... But God has given my MY voice at MY blog for reasons that only HE knows. So just be comfortable in your own skin. Talk about the things you love and are interested in, others will feel your enthusiasm and join along.

2) Avoid the pressure of thinking you have to post something every. single. day. You should post often, to keep others interested, but if you are struggling for content, just take a day off and reflect. God gives me the most special entries that way. Some weeks I think that nothing "blogworthy" has occurred, and other weeks I am full of "I need to post that!" moments. I have enough things that consume my time and energy without thinking that blogging should be another item on my to do list. Just have fun with it!

Well, that's my story (and I guess I am sticking to it!). I hope that you have gotten something out of it, or that it has helped in some way. Thanks again, Chili for letting me participate!

Blogging 101

Hey there all my Blogistas!! (This is my new word for you all...Blogging+Sistas = Blogistas!) This is not to offend any Blogothers, just that this is mostly a girls' world over at Truly Captivating.

ANYWAY!!!

The purpose of this post is that I need a favor...

KISA and I are going to be teaching a blog class at our church starting tomorrow night. (WE ARE SO EXCITED!!) We will be featuring The Blogging Church as well as other "strategic stuff" we have learned from Tony over at NewSpring. We hope to create a family of bloggers that will lift up the Name of Jesus, while also building a greater sense of community within the fellowship of our rapidly growing church.

Here's where you come in. I would like to ask y'all to please post comments here sharing what you love most about blogging. You could share how you got started, or even post your own blog story, kind of like Nise' and Big Mama did back in June, when they participated in the blog carnival hosted by Chilihead. (I'm going to be posting something like that here soon...is it too late to participate Chili???)

It would be so helpful if we could share "testimonials" of sorts in our class to peak the interests of our students, and hopefully get them motivated to join us out here in Bloggityville.

Thanks in advance for your participation. I know you girls (ahem) and guys won't let me down!! So DO YO THANG MY PEEPS!!

Thankful Thursday

 

Sting My Heart is using the "5 Things I Dig About Jesus" meme as the theme (hey, that rhymes!) for today's Thankful Thursday.  Since I already participated in that meme here, I thought I would write about something else.  Then I thought again... I mean, this IS Jesus we are talking about!! 

Here are five more things that I dig about Him, and that I am truly thankful for!!!

1. He loves me!! ...just the way I am, but TOO MUCH to let me stay this way!!  He is working in my life to make me mature and complete, lacking nothing.  I count it ALL JOY!
2. He speaks to me!!  (Just the other night He spoke to me through a certain passage of scripture referring to Peter.  As I was sharing what I read with my KISA, he revealed that he had just studied the same thing while reading this book. We were both reading this AT THE SAME TIME!  Think God wanted us to GET IT??? I sure do!)
3. He gets me!! No matter how "High Maintenance" I may be, or how many emotional meltdowns I may have, I don't have to explain myself to Him.  He created me with passion for a purpose, and He loves me!!
4. He takes care of me!!  As I learn to yield my life over to Him daily, He shows me more and more that I can TRUST HIM...even with the small stuff.  In fact, He often uses his provision in the small things to teach me BIG lessons. (Like in this post by Big Mama.) He is Jehovah Jireh!!
5. He died for me!! He is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords, yet He saw fit to leave his throne on high, and come to dwell among us. Although He knew the hurts and trials he would have to face, He chose to come because He "would rather die, than to ever live without me"!

What do you "dig" about Jesus? Or what are you particularly thankful for today?? To share your heart, or view other responses visit Iris at Sting My Heart.  Have a blessed day!!

I AM Study - Lesson 10: Keeping it in the Family

Discussion Questions:

1. Have you ever experienced trials that were best dealt with "in the family" for either your reputation's sake or God's? You may still choose to leave them there, but you are welcome to share if you are comfortable.

Yes, I have. 

"A fool spurns his father's discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence" (Proverbs 15:5).

2. Have you ever found yourself in a bizarre circumstance and later were able to walk someone through the same/similar situation? Did you recognize the hand of God in it?

This study has me speaking often (albeit vaguely) of a certain event that I endured in college.  One day, maybe sooner than not, I will post about it in more detail, but for now let me just say that God has allowed me to touch other people through that traumatic time, than I ever would have been able to without it.  I believe that God definitely allows certain trials in our lives so that we can lead others through them as well.

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything" (James 1:2-4).

3. I was in my late twenties before I ever let myself believe God was for me instead of waiting to smack me upside the head every time I made a mistake. Do you truly believe God is on your side?

Yes, but it also took me a while to come around.  I know that God wants what is best for me, and wants me to achieve greatness for HIS GLORY.

"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do" (Ephesians 2:10).

4. If God has ever had you in the Holy Spirit Chokehold (and who hasn't He?), how have you reacted to God's chastisement? Were you bitter? Brokenhearted? Grateful?

I tend to pout and sulk when I have felt the correction of God.  Much like I did as a child after being punished, I throw a little pity-party and try to convince myself I didn't do anything to deserve it.  The truth is, I deserve much worse! I deserve HELL, but I am a sinner saved by His marvelous grace, and I know that when he corrects me it so I can be BETTER. 

"Blessed is the man whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty"(Job 5:17).

5. Write a brief prayer of Thanksgiving for God's longsuffering.

God you are way more than patient with me.  You take my hand and guide me when I am unsure, you pick me up and carry me when I have no strength.  You allow me to fall numerous times so that each time I regain my footing with you, I will be even stronger, even closer.  Even when I fail you you are faithful.  Lord, never let me get over this love affair I have with you.  Keep me close Father, and continue to show me the way.

I remember my affliction and my wandering,
       the bitterness and the gall. 

I well remember them,
       and my soul is downcast within me.

Yet this I call to mind
       and therefore I have hope:

Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
       for his compassions never fail.

They are new every morning;
       great is your faithfulness. 

(Lamentations 3:19-23)

May Day Week 10 - A Day Late...

Wish I could say "a day late and another pound short"...but alas, such is not the case. I have not been feeling well for the past couple of days. (I was in bed all day Sunday and most of yesterday with Sinus and PMS issues...not a good combo...nope, not at all!!)

So my results for this week: No loss...no gain...

I guess maintenance is good...in fact, KISA calls me his "High Maintenance Chick". (Actually, I put the "I" in High and the "Ten" in Maintenance!! HA HA!!)

I am still tracking points, and I have walked three days this week...YAY!! I know I am making better choices, and that alone makes me feel good.

Looking forward to better results next week.

How'd you do???

P.S. The "I in High.." quote above is not mine; it's a Beth Moorism. I got it from this book. Speaking of Beth Moore...I found THIS on Amy's blog. What a wonderful story, and a great reminder. I am a princess, a child of The King!!

Facing the Mirror

It was 10:35 PM.

The kids should have been in bed almost two hours earlier, but Sambo decided to have a marathon of a Sunday afternoon nap, and Emilee and Jacob were curled up on the couch so sweetly, watching a Disney Channel movie, that I let it go. Besides, it's summer time.

When I finally began ushering them to their rooms at 10:00 the drama began. Sam needed his "Bur-bearssss" (CareBears). Not just any one would do, he had to have four specific ones tucked in neatly beside him, and Mama had to kiss each and every one. Then he needed water. Then he needed milk. (I needed two Tylenol!) Then Jacob had to be tucked in tight on the top bunk, according to his OCD particularity. "Snug as a bug in a rug" takes on a whole new meaning with him, so I began my nightly acrobatics routine and accomplished the feat. (Forget the Tylenol, make that four Motrin!)

I kissed them both, closed the door, and moved on to Emilee's room. "Mom, Daddy didn't tuck me in just right the way you always do". Then after I had her "snug as a bug" we commenced the nightly prayer ritual of Mama laying hands on her while she prays, "Dear Jesus, please help me get a good night's sleep. Help me to have good dreams and not bad dreams. Help me to have good thoughts and not bad thoughts. Please send your angels to watch over me"... She's had nightmare issues since she was three, only this time the prayer includes everything from mosquito bites to hang nails. (That wouldn't have bothered me so much had we not already said our bedtime prayer in the boys' room which includes every member of our immediate and extended family, friends, pets, toys, bugs and whatever else they can think of.) I finally kiss her, turn on her night-night music, and close the door.

As I crossed the hall to my room to wash my face and brush my teeth, I murmur to myself, "Who is it that has spoiled these kids so? ...Good gravy! Putting children to bed should NOT take 35 minutes"! As turned on the faucet and reached across the sink for my tube of facial cleanser, I found my answer.

There she was, the culprit...standing right in front of me.

Sister, you look tired. You need to do something about those bags under your eyes. Are you breaking out?? Must be getting close to "that time" again...better restock the Pamprin .(Is it just me or is this post beginning to sound like an advertisement for OTC medications?? Geesh!) And while you're at it, call the beautician, you need your roots done, and I am not even going to get started on that sea of gray at your hairline.

Lord, help me!

This morning as I began my quiet time, my devotional booklet featured this scripture passage...

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does. (James 1:22-25)

Thank you Father for showing me where I need improvement. Just as I would apply makeup or hair color, help me to apply your word to my life. I would never go out of my front door without my "face on" or my hair done, so don't let me go about my day without your life-changing Word in my heart. Give me a hunger for your Daily Bread like none other I have experienced. Let it be my sustenance, my nourishment, and the balm for all my aches and pains.

Thank you also for affirming to me the great blessings you've given me in each one of my sweet children (spoiled or no) and help me Jesus to be the Mama they need me to be. I can do all things in You and your strength. Let your peace rule and reign in my life. Even when it takes 35 minutes to put my blessings to bed.

Oh How I Love Jesus!

I've been tagged by Nise' at Thus Far the Lord has Helped Me to tell 5 things I love about Jesus.

Here are the rules:

1. those tagged will share 5 things they dig about Jesus…
2. those tagged will tag 5 other bloggers…
3. those tagged will post a comment here with their name and a link to their “dig” Jesus list…

Since I am a singing/song/music fanatic (and Nise' just loves to hear me sing) I thought I would share my five things this way...

1. He is the Great "I AM".
2. He came to my "Rescue".
3. He freed me from my "Shackles" and chains.
4. He is the "Beautiful One" and He makes me "Beautiful".
5. He is my "Home", and in Him I am more than "Blessed".

That was so much fun! (Although I do have to agree with Deena, it's way too hot for tag...then again, we can pretend that we are running through the sprinklers or playing "Marco Polo" in the pool!!)

So now I have to ask...

Alycia at Where My Treasure Is
Connie at Little Red Hearts from God
Deedra at Nspired by Faith
Karen (hope you are back with us soon, Sistah!) at Karen's Korner
Terri at In His Hands

What do you dig about Jesus??? Come on Girls, let's "Sing to the King"!!

Deeper Still

My heart is so full this morning. I hope that I am able to convey my thoughts and feelings in a way that makes sense to you all. I know that the Holy Spirit can discern my groaning, but I would like to try and interpret it for all my sweet sistahs, and other friends in bloggityville.

As most of you know from previous posts, my husband and I surrendered to God's call to full time ministry, while attending a leadership conference at this church, back on March 15. For the first time since then, a storm of doubt has clouded my vision. Don't get me wrong, I know that this is all a scheme of the enemy, but I am having a tough time clearing my head. After a period of about three months worth of sheer euphoria in our decision, basking in the wonder and glory of our sweet savior, some tough decisions have arisen.

KISA and I have been working toward financial freedom for about 10 months now. We are MUCH better than we used to be at managing God's money, but we still have a ways to go before we are completely debt free except for a house payment. We are now considering selling our home to complete that process and ready us for the next/first step in our service to God.

I have to tell you that I am scared out of my mind! I so want to do the right thing here. I want to put feet to my faith if that is what God is calling me to do, but at the same time I don't want to get ahead of His plan. I am praying, and WE are praying, but I would like to humbly ask for your prayers as well. You see, when all of this first happened, God gave us a vision. Both of us, individually, at separate times, had the same vision. But now I am being plagued with "what ifs"...the main one of which is "what if we were wrong?".

The devil wants to paralyze me in fear to keep me from taking the next step.

My son, Jacob, has been making great strides in learning to swim all summer. He was doing really well, virtually swimming all over the pool until he slipped off his noodle in the deep end last week. After that he was petrified of going anywhere that he couldn't touch with his feet. His fear kept him from enjoying the same freedom and fulfillment that his sister and cousin had in swimming all over the pool.

On Wednesday, when Daddy was able to go swimming with us, he was able to slowly help Jake regain his confidence by first trusting in him. Inch by inch Chris had him venturing farther and farther out, the whole time telling him "Daddy's right here with you. I've got you, just trust me...I would never let anything bad happen". Before the day was over, Jacob had not only made up lost ground, but was flourishing in the deep water. He even dove down (several times) and touched the drain!

Take me deep enough where I can see
The bottom of Your heart
Deep enough that I can know Your will
Deep enough to know that we
Will never be apart
And when I get there
Take me deeper still
(Scott Krippayne Lyrics)

Oh God! I want to go deeper, still! I realize now that I get myself in trouble by depending on my own noodle instead of trusting in you and leaning not on my own understanding. Help me to acknowledge you in everything I do, and take your hand; allowing you to guide me down the paths that you have blazed for me (Proverbs 3:5-6). God I know that you have all the answers, and that you will show us what to do and when to do it. I don't want to be anxious about this anymore. I submit to you now. Give me your peace Sweet Jesus, let it rule and reign over my heart (Philippians 4:6-7). I love you Lord, my Savior, and my God!

Thankful Thursday - Freedom

In my anguish I cried to the LORD, and he answered by setting me free. (Psalm 118:5)

He upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry. The LORD sets
prisoners free. (Psalm 146:7)

The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners. (Isaiah 61:1)

So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. (John 8:36)

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. (Galatians 5:1)

I am so thankful for my freedom! I thank God that I am an American, and that I live in this most blessed land of the free and the home of the brave. I am thankful to Him for the dedicated men and women of the armed services, both at home and abroad, that defend and protect my freedom. I am thankful for the precious families of those men and women who stand behind their loved ones and so selflessly give of their lives and livelihoods for the cause of freedom. Our country has had it's difficult times for sure, but I would never want to live anywhere else. GOD BLESS AMERICA!!

As thankful as I am for my country, I am MOST thankful for the freedom I have in Christ Jesus. I am forever grateful that he took my hand, lifted me up out of the slimy pit, and set my feet upon a rock, giving me a firm place to stand (Psalm 40:2). He is my All in All. My Savior, Creator, Maker and Friend...my Redeemer, and the One True Lover of My Soul. He is Alpha and Omega...the Beginning and the End...I AM has freed me, and I am His forever!!!

Hallelujah!!

Let freedom ring!

May Day Week 8

I could have sworn I heard the scales giggling as I stepped on them this morning.  I thought I heard a voice say, "Are you kidding me?  You actually think you have LOST weight this week??  Did you forget about the chocolate cake you ate Saturday, and the doughnut you indulged in yesterday morning?? Ha ha ha ha!!!"

Well...in the end, I am the one who is laughing...I lost two more pounds!! (Just one more, and I will have lost all I gained on vacation!) I guess all those laps I have been swimming really did the trick!

Good thing I am headed back to Mama's pool this afternoon...got some pizza to work off! ;-)

I'm SPEECHLESS!!

Now, for those of you that frequent my blog, I am sure you are having a really hard time believing this...but I truly am...SPEECHLESS!

Last week while I was away (I managed to post a few times, but didn't do too well with the comments, sorry!!) something remarkable happened...I received 2 awards!!! Me!! Little Ol' ME!!

Nise' was first to nominate me for this one, which is really cool because she was my first real "blogging buddy", and I think she TOTALLY ROCKS, too!!

Then Tammy (I love you, Siesta!!!) left me a note saying that she had awarded me with this one, as well...here is what she wrote:

I would like to pass this award on to Susanne at Truly Captivating. You will love visiting with her. I can see her love for God's word growing each day....wow! The fact that she's a praise dancin', hand raisn', Baptist is merit alone to receive the award from me...you go girl!

And this morning, I received another from Deborah. (I am fine Deb, just been a little out of the loop with all this traveling...as well as completely flabbergasted by the kindness of my blogging sistas!) She is such a wonderful encourager, and a true Dolla Friend!! This is what she had to say...

What a lady, what a woman captivated by God. You truly have come to the place of walking in God's Grace. Love you, dolla.

With the acceptance of this award, it is my turn to now name a few girls that I call ROCKIN' GIRL BLOGGERS!! In addition to the three I have mentioned above, here are four more...

Karen at the Korner, is such a lovely breath of fresh air. She is always positive and uplifting, and her hunger for the Lord is contagious! She also gets points for being a fellow SC girl. Hear me singing Karen?? "Carolina Girls...best in the world!!!"

Patty at Girlfriends in God is always such an encourager. Her blog reflects her love of the Lord, and her desire to uplift and inspire her girlfriends.

Gretchen at Quantum Leap is refreshingly honest and often thought provoking, not to mention loads of fun!! I just love visiting and hearing from her.

And last, but certainly not least, is Deedra at NspiredByFaith. This girl has my heart!! Her unabashed Southern Charm, and heart for Jesus make me feel right at home. She is such a blessing, and has recently started a Fit4Life weight loss challenge. If you haven't yet, you definitely need to check her out. Just pop on over and "set a spell"!! Her blog is just TOO darn cute!!!

As if that wasn't enough, my dear friend Alycia at Where Your Treasure Is, bestowed the Blogger Reflection Award.

I am so honored to receive this, especially from Alycia because she is one of the most insightful, inspirational, and in love with Jesus bloggers I know!! I love her dearly and am always blessed when I visit her.

This is what she said about me:

Susanne because with each visit, I am blessed by her insight, love of God and humor. She makes me smile and her cheerful blog-home is filled with the love of the Lord. She is witty and keeps me laughing. I feel like I could sit with her, enjoy some sweet tea and chat all afternoon!

Sister, you are more than welcome to stop by for a nice cool glass of sweet tea ANYTIME!! I love you!!

I would like to also mention two other bloggers that I am sure many of you know (and probably have already nominated), but never cease to bless me with their insights into God's word. They inspire me to reflect into my own life and find ways to be all that I can be for Jesus.

The Preacher's Wife has not only blessed me with her I AM Bible Study but through her entries at The Cafe' and her humorous tales of family life. She is truly a blessing, and a woman I have come to admire greatly.

Iris, at Sting My Heart is just a wonderful example of a truly Thankful Heart. She hosts Thankful Thursdays, and also Laced with Grace (devotional blog). Her sweet heart for Jesus and love for others is such an inspiration to me.

A few more that I would like to mention are Laurel Wreath, Speaking Thru Me, and Magnanimity. Each of these ladies are wonderful examples of hearts surrendered to Jesus, as they each seek to take the gifts He has given them to share his love, and reach the world. They are all truly captivating!!!

I just want to take a few more minutes to thank you all for your kind words and sweet thoughts. It is truly astounding to me that God could take something that started out as "entertainment" for a SAHM and use it to bless others and further His Kingdom. I am truly blessed to know each and every one of you, and to call you my Sistas in Jesus!!

Love to all!!