Everyday I awaken to the reality that the Lord has made a new day for me to learn from him. He never ceases to amaze me. As I look into the face of my baby granddaughter, I truly see the face of God. How amazing and loving he is to create such a beautiful replicate of himself. We are made in his image, by his hand and for his purposes.
Recently, I was struck with how intimately he attends each of us. It's easy to believe that he is too busy for my pettiness. But, the truth is that he is so into every detail of our lives. Although that is a very comforting thought, his most intimate desire for us is to be close to him. He loves us so much and is a jealous God. He is jealous for you. He is jealous for me. He is jealous for your time. But, above all else, he is jealous for your heart, your devotion and your adoration. He wants to be praised and he wants to be loved. He is God!
As I look at the beautiful little face of my "Sweet Cheeks", as I call her, and her whole face lights up with joy and a big toothless grin, I instantly melt. I think of how God melts when we turn our face to his, look him directly in the eye and smile with affection. I can't get enough of her. Amazing is this love between grandma and baby. She is such a gift! How much more our heavenly father loves us.
How do we resist such love? How do we resist such affection? Why do we run to anything else that falls short of unconditional love and acceptance? Could it be that we are so in tune to another voice that shouts we are unworthy, that we don't need it, that we can handle life on our own terms? How wrong we are and how much we forfeit the only love that can truly satisfy our deepest longing.
Step into his presence now and surrender everything in your life to him. If you have given him your life; it is his anyway. He is so much better at running our lives than we are. Life is just better when he is the driver! Let him take the driver's seat and see where he takes you! The view is amazing and he will take you to higher levels of his grace, his mercy, his love and his acceptance than you have ever imagined.
As we run around trying to find out what our purpose in this life is, he stands waiting for you to realize that you were made to love him! The bible is the greatest love story ever told...the one who made you, loves you and he wants to fill you and make you whole with this love. Will you love him too?
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
I Will Lift Him Up
Praise the LORD.
Sing to the LORD a new song, his praise in the assembly of the saints.
Let Israel rejoice in their Maker; let the people of Zion be glad in their King.
Let them praise his name with dancing and make music to him with tambourine and harp.
For the Lord takes delights in his people;
he crowns the humble with salvation.
Let the saints rejoice in this honor and sing for joy on their beds.
Psalm 149:1-5
I am convicted by my lack of looking to Jesus. This morning, I awoke to him speaking to me about his desire for me. He pursues me and asked me a question: If God is for you who can be against you?
God is FOR us. We are His children. He gives us favor and delights in US.
I will praise the Lord and I will dance for Him. He is worthy!
Sing to the LORD a new song, his praise in the assembly of the saints.
Let Israel rejoice in their Maker; let the people of Zion be glad in their King.
Let them praise his name with dancing and make music to him with tambourine and harp.
For the Lord takes delights in his people;
he crowns the humble with salvation.
Let the saints rejoice in this honor and sing for joy on their beds.
Psalm 149:1-5
I am convicted by my lack of looking to Jesus. This morning, I awoke to him speaking to me about his desire for me. He pursues me and asked me a question: If God is for you who can be against you?
God is FOR us. We are His children. He gives us favor and delights in US.
I will praise the Lord and I will dance for Him. He is worthy!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Watch This!
Sing to God, sing praise to his name,
extol him who rides on the clouds-
his name is the LORD-
and rejoice before him. Ps. 68:4
I had the privilege of tagging along with my husband on a business trip last week to Florida. It was just a little break for me from all of the hustle and bustle of Christmas. I am blessed to have such a wonderful family and support system for my little ones, so that I can enjoy my time and not worry about them.
Whenever my husband and I travel, I always sit by the window and give him the aisle seat. I like to look out and see all of God's creation and he likes to be able to stretch his legs when he wants.
As we were approaching our destination, we were flying over the ocean. I was watching out the window and thinking about the verse I quoted. I thought about the LORD riding on the clouds. I wondered what it would be like to have my spiritual eyes opened and see the LORD.
While I was pondering this, I noticed a heart shape in the ocean. It was very dark and very large and I thought "How cool is that!" I thought there must be a huge rock formation that is causing the depth of the ocean to form a heart. So, I mentioned it to my husband.
He leaned over me to see out the window and spotted it right away. He kept looking and said, "Honey, that heart shape is a shadow of heart-shaped cloud above it." He then pointed out the heart shape cloud. I said "You are right! Oh my goodness, that is so incredible!" We were both just grinning and staring out the window.
We moved past the point of the heart and I just sat there amazed again at our AMAZING GOD! I said, "You know, I think that God just likes to play, "Watch This!" with me. He said "I think so!" That may sound flippant to some, but I remain in awe of the intimacy of my LORD. He is worthy of our praise!
The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Ps. 19:1
extol him who rides on the clouds-
his name is the LORD-
and rejoice before him. Ps. 68:4
I had the privilege of tagging along with my husband on a business trip last week to Florida. It was just a little break for me from all of the hustle and bustle of Christmas. I am blessed to have such a wonderful family and support system for my little ones, so that I can enjoy my time and not worry about them.
Whenever my husband and I travel, I always sit by the window and give him the aisle seat. I like to look out and see all of God's creation and he likes to be able to stretch his legs when he wants.
As we were approaching our destination, we were flying over the ocean. I was watching out the window and thinking about the verse I quoted. I thought about the LORD riding on the clouds. I wondered what it would be like to have my spiritual eyes opened and see the LORD.
While I was pondering this, I noticed a heart shape in the ocean. It was very dark and very large and I thought "How cool is that!" I thought there must be a huge rock formation that is causing the depth of the ocean to form a heart. So, I mentioned it to my husband.
He leaned over me to see out the window and spotted it right away. He kept looking and said, "Honey, that heart shape is a shadow of heart-shaped cloud above it." He then pointed out the heart shape cloud. I said "You are right! Oh my goodness, that is so incredible!" We were both just grinning and staring out the window.
We moved past the point of the heart and I just sat there amazed again at our AMAZING GOD! I said, "You know, I think that God just likes to play, "Watch This!" with me. He said "I think so!" That may sound flippant to some, but I remain in awe of the intimacy of my LORD. He is worthy of our praise!
The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Ps. 19:1
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Peace In His Presence
I have been resting in God's peace. His presence surrounds me. I want to hide here. It is such a good place to be.
There is so much going on in our world. Sometimes I wonder what it would be like to be God. He already knows what is going to happen, but does it hurt Him to see all of the pain in our world.
This morning, I was reliving some of my own hurts. It didn't feel good. It was just subtle thoughts and subtle grief. I recognized it and starting praying and asking the Lord to help me. I am so weak.
He showed me the cross. I was humbled. He said that I didn't have to carry my pain. He already has. I repented and asked him to forgive me for trying to carry it myself. What a waste of my time and energy. He paid for it, so I don't have to. It must cause Him pain when I don't accept the price He paid for me.
It is so subtle. It seems so real. It seems so me. But I am reminded of the enemy that wages war against my soul and wants to confuse my mind. He wants to steal my peace. He wants me to live in defeat.
Thank God for His intimacy. The bible says he knows my every thought even while it is far from me, before I even think it. So, today I lost the battle for a few moments. But, I thank the Lord that He let me hear His voice calling me.
Come to Me all of you who are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest. You will find rest for you soul and peace for your heart. Those who know Him know His voice. He desires to walk with me and to talk with me and to remind me that I am His own.
So, even tonight I am still here...here in His presence...and here...there is peace.
There is so much going on in our world. Sometimes I wonder what it would be like to be God. He already knows what is going to happen, but does it hurt Him to see all of the pain in our world.
This morning, I was reliving some of my own hurts. It didn't feel good. It was just subtle thoughts and subtle grief. I recognized it and starting praying and asking the Lord to help me. I am so weak.
He showed me the cross. I was humbled. He said that I didn't have to carry my pain. He already has. I repented and asked him to forgive me for trying to carry it myself. What a waste of my time and energy. He paid for it, so I don't have to. It must cause Him pain when I don't accept the price He paid for me.
It is so subtle. It seems so real. It seems so me. But I am reminded of the enemy that wages war against my soul and wants to confuse my mind. He wants to steal my peace. He wants me to live in defeat.
Thank God for His intimacy. The bible says he knows my every thought even while it is far from me, before I even think it. So, today I lost the battle for a few moments. But, I thank the Lord that He let me hear His voice calling me.
Come to Me all of you who are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest. You will find rest for you soul and peace for your heart. Those who know Him know His voice. He desires to walk with me and to talk with me and to remind me that I am His own.
So, even tonight I am still here...here in His presence...and here...there is peace.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
How Beautiful
How beautiful the radiant bride~
My daughter was married on Saturday. It was beautiful. She was beautiful. She looked like Cinderella. Her face was illuminated. Her gown sparkled like diamonds as the late afternoon sun peeked through the windows. She was amazing!
I am still speechless. I have tried to express myself in gratitude to the Lord for His goodness and His faithfulness, but I just don't have the right words. It went beyond anything we could ask or imagine.
The bride, the groom, the wedding party, the readers, the music, the church, the singers and the message were all perfect! I felt the presence of the Lord expressing himself in the atmosphere. You could feel the peace and the love and the wonder of it all. And the weather was incredible! Not a cloud in the sky, and the sun was shining. I know I sound like a proud Mother of the Bride or M.O.B. as my daughter affectionately called me.
Okay, so I am. I am proud to be the mother of the bride and now to be the mother of my 4th son, her husband. I look forward with anticipation to their future together and their future family. We will relive their Big Day for years to come in the many pictures and videos prepared for us.
This morning, while spending time with the Lord, I imagined what the Wedding Supper of the Lamb will be. We gave our daughter our best and we enjoyed every minute and would do it again in a heartbeat. The Lord has a feast in mind for us. He is making the preparations now. He is giving his best. He is waiting patiently for His bride to ready herself.
As the trumpet played or the organist version, I should say, the doors of the sanctuary opened. There was the bride, my daughter in all her radiance; she was ready to be presented to her bridegroom. I was awestruck. The bridegroom stood still with a big smile on his face and his eyes were full of love and fixed on her. He was ready to receive his bride.
So it is with us. Jesus is waiting for the bride to ready herself. He is smiling and He is waiting and He is watching. Are you ready? The trumpet will blast and He will appear. No words can describe it. His full presence will be known. How blessed we will be when he looks at us, His bride, and says to you and to me: How Beautiful!
My daughter was married on Saturday. It was beautiful. She was beautiful. She looked like Cinderella. Her face was illuminated. Her gown sparkled like diamonds as the late afternoon sun peeked through the windows. She was amazing!
I am still speechless. I have tried to express myself in gratitude to the Lord for His goodness and His faithfulness, but I just don't have the right words. It went beyond anything we could ask or imagine.
The bride, the groom, the wedding party, the readers, the music, the church, the singers and the message were all perfect! I felt the presence of the Lord expressing himself in the atmosphere. You could feel the peace and the love and the wonder of it all. And the weather was incredible! Not a cloud in the sky, and the sun was shining. I know I sound like a proud Mother of the Bride or M.O.B. as my daughter affectionately called me.
Okay, so I am. I am proud to be the mother of the bride and now to be the mother of my 4th son, her husband. I look forward with anticipation to their future together and their future family. We will relive their Big Day for years to come in the many pictures and videos prepared for us.
This morning, while spending time with the Lord, I imagined what the Wedding Supper of the Lamb will be. We gave our daughter our best and we enjoyed every minute and would do it again in a heartbeat. The Lord has a feast in mind for us. He is making the preparations now. He is giving his best. He is waiting patiently for His bride to ready herself.
As the trumpet played or the organist version, I should say, the doors of the sanctuary opened. There was the bride, my daughter in all her radiance; she was ready to be presented to her bridegroom. I was awestruck. The bridegroom stood still with a big smile on his face and his eyes were full of love and fixed on her. He was ready to receive his bride.
So it is with us. Jesus is waiting for the bride to ready herself. He is smiling and He is waiting and He is watching. Are you ready? The trumpet will blast and He will appear. No words can describe it. His full presence will be known. How blessed we will be when he looks at us, His bride, and says to you and to me: How Beautiful!
Sunday, October 4, 2009
A Pick Me Up
Amazing that no matter where we are God is there. We are never more than a whisper from Jesus' name.
On a flight the other day, I was reminded about His presence. I never lose my awe of being so far above the earth. As I looked at the clouds just suspended in air and the "life" below, I wondered what it all looks like to God. It's too much to comprehend.
And then I thought about His presence. It's everywhere. The airplane can't get any closer to the air. It is in it. The presence of Jesus is everywhere. If you are breathing, you are in it.
While in worship today, I sensed His presence. It was majestic and whooing. My king was drawing me close to him. In those moments, I never want to leave. It is heavenly. It was more than a knowledge of His presence, it was an experience of His presence. It's as if no one else is around and it's just me and Him -knowing and being known.
He longs for that intimacy with me and with you. He wants us to know Him. He wants us to want Him.
Abraham Lincoln was a great president. I know a lot about him. I have visited the places that he walked. I have read books about him and marveled at his face at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. Though I know about him, I don't know him.
Jesus is not just a figure hanging on a cross or a picture hanging in your grandmother's hallway. He's not just a historical figure. He is the living God. He is a life-giving God. He is the only true God. By him were all things made and for him all things were made.
You were made by him. For I was knit together in my mother's womb, your eyes saw my unformed body when I was hidden in the secret place...every day was written in your book before one of them came to be. Psalm 119
You were made for a purpose. For I know the plans that I have for you, says the Lord; plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29
The rest of that verse goes on to say that He will hear us when we turn from the path we have marked out for ourselves and turn toward him. I believe it is the longing of every heart to be known.
Like a father reaching to pick up a child that has fallen, He longs to pick you up and to carry you. Getting closer to God doesn't just happen. You have to make a move.
It can happen in your life today, though. You can get one step closer to knowing Him. Turn from where you are, reach up to God with your heart and your hands and whisper "Jesus, pick me up". He knows your heart. You will find that you are in the hands of God and that He is closer than the air you breathe!
On a flight the other day, I was reminded about His presence. I never lose my awe of being so far above the earth. As I looked at the clouds just suspended in air and the "life" below, I wondered what it all looks like to God. It's too much to comprehend.
And then I thought about His presence. It's everywhere. The airplane can't get any closer to the air. It is in it. The presence of Jesus is everywhere. If you are breathing, you are in it.
While in worship today, I sensed His presence. It was majestic and whooing. My king was drawing me close to him. In those moments, I never want to leave. It is heavenly. It was more than a knowledge of His presence, it was an experience of His presence. It's as if no one else is around and it's just me and Him -knowing and being known.
He longs for that intimacy with me and with you. He wants us to know Him. He wants us to want Him.
Abraham Lincoln was a great president. I know a lot about him. I have visited the places that he walked. I have read books about him and marveled at his face at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. Though I know about him, I don't know him.
Jesus is not just a figure hanging on a cross or a picture hanging in your grandmother's hallway. He's not just a historical figure. He is the living God. He is a life-giving God. He is the only true God. By him were all things made and for him all things were made.
You were made by him. For I was knit together in my mother's womb, your eyes saw my unformed body when I was hidden in the secret place...every day was written in your book before one of them came to be. Psalm 119
You were made for a purpose. For I know the plans that I have for you, says the Lord; plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29
The rest of that verse goes on to say that He will hear us when we turn from the path we have marked out for ourselves and turn toward him. I believe it is the longing of every heart to be known.
Like a father reaching to pick up a child that has fallen, He longs to pick you up and to carry you. Getting closer to God doesn't just happen. You have to make a move.
It can happen in your life today, though. You can get one step closer to knowing Him. Turn from where you are, reach up to God with your heart and your hands and whisper "Jesus, pick me up". He knows your heart. You will find that you are in the hands of God and that He is closer than the air you breathe!
Monday, September 28, 2009
A Changed Life
I recently read a really good book and wanted to share it with you. My uncle had told me about the author who was a friend of his. He sent the book to me and it was amazing how God used it in my life.
After reading the book, I had the opportunity to talk with the author. He asked me to mention the book to my blog followers. The name of the book is The Lost Secret and the author is Rick Suarez. You can visit his website at http://www.lostsecret.org/
The book is illustrated beautifully and is not like any other book I have read. It is also in a study guide form. Rick shares his life honestly and openly. And it is an amazing story. Jesus became the focus of His life and is using him to reach many people with the message of the cross.
The book covers every area in the Christian's journey. One of the chapters is about idols. And the Lord used the book to reveal the idols in my life.
Thinking I knew myself pretty well and knowing how God has healed my heart and changed my life, my prideful self thought this should be easy. It went like this:
"Lord, do I have any idols in my life?"
The answer came quickly, "Yes."
Mmmm...I had to really think about it. Do I really want to see the idols in my life? I have known the Lord long enough to know that when he is ready to work in your life, don't put it off. No matter how painful it seems, there is always victory on the other side. I knew I didn't want to miss out on what he has for me.
So, I worked up enough courage and said, "Okay, Lord, please show me what is an idol in my life".
He said, "Your family".
I quickly responded and said, "No, it's not". Pretty bold of me to argue with God, huh. I was so defensive!
He answered me with silence. He just waited...he didn't condemn me or shame me...he just waited.
I felt His presence so strongly and I was so humbled. I know that He is God and he knows me perfectly.
I then saw a picture in my mind. In my mind, I saw the cross. And then the idols in my life were lined up like wooden "game pieces".
The first one was my husband and then my kids, and then my parents, and then my siblings and then their children and my in-laws and their children...all of them...lined up. At the end of the line was me. I have a fairly large family, so this was a pretty long line.
How could I argue with God?
But I did, I said, "But Lord, I love them and I care about them and I want them to know you".
I was the first to get saved in my family, and have felt responsible for them. I want to be a good witness and I don't want them to miss out on what God has for each one of them. I want that more than anything!
Oh, so there's the key, I want that MORE than anything. I guess that is the definition of an idol, isn't it?
The Lord answered me and said, "Then let me be their God and stop playing God in their lives." I was so humbled. I didn't argue with God. I was speechless.
I sat quietly for a moment. I said, "Lord, I'm so sorry. I don't want anything between you and me."
And as quickly as I finished that prayer, the "game pieces" fell like dominoes. I was instantly at the foot of the cross, with nothing between me and Jesus!
The weight was taken off of my shoulders. The weight that I chose to carry. Jesus never asked me to carry that burden. Oh, he is so much better at being God than I am. I am free to set them free...and let Him be God!
So, check out the book. I am pretty sure God has a message for you somewhere in it too. And tell Rick I sent you...www.lostsecret.org.
A life changed by God is a blessed life! Be blessed!
After reading the book, I had the opportunity to talk with the author. He asked me to mention the book to my blog followers. The name of the book is The Lost Secret and the author is Rick Suarez. You can visit his website at http://www.lostsecret.org/
The book is illustrated beautifully and is not like any other book I have read. It is also in a study guide form. Rick shares his life honestly and openly. And it is an amazing story. Jesus became the focus of His life and is using him to reach many people with the message of the cross.
The book covers every area in the Christian's journey. One of the chapters is about idols. And the Lord used the book to reveal the idols in my life.
Thinking I knew myself pretty well and knowing how God has healed my heart and changed my life, my prideful self thought this should be easy. It went like this:
"Lord, do I have any idols in my life?"
The answer came quickly, "Yes."
Mmmm...I had to really think about it. Do I really want to see the idols in my life? I have known the Lord long enough to know that when he is ready to work in your life, don't put it off. No matter how painful it seems, there is always victory on the other side. I knew I didn't want to miss out on what he has for me.
So, I worked up enough courage and said, "Okay, Lord, please show me what is an idol in my life".
He said, "Your family".
I quickly responded and said, "No, it's not". Pretty bold of me to argue with God, huh. I was so defensive!
He answered me with silence. He just waited...he didn't condemn me or shame me...he just waited.
I felt His presence so strongly and I was so humbled. I know that He is God and he knows me perfectly.
I then saw a picture in my mind. In my mind, I saw the cross. And then the idols in my life were lined up like wooden "game pieces".
The first one was my husband and then my kids, and then my parents, and then my siblings and then their children and my in-laws and their children...all of them...lined up. At the end of the line was me. I have a fairly large family, so this was a pretty long line.
How could I argue with God?
But I did, I said, "But Lord, I love them and I care about them and I want them to know you".
I was the first to get saved in my family, and have felt responsible for them. I want to be a good witness and I don't want them to miss out on what God has for each one of them. I want that more than anything!
Oh, so there's the key, I want that MORE than anything. I guess that is the definition of an idol, isn't it?
The Lord answered me and said, "Then let me be their God and stop playing God in their lives." I was so humbled. I didn't argue with God. I was speechless.
I sat quietly for a moment. I said, "Lord, I'm so sorry. I don't want anything between you and me."
And as quickly as I finished that prayer, the "game pieces" fell like dominoes. I was instantly at the foot of the cross, with nothing between me and Jesus!
The weight was taken off of my shoulders. The weight that I chose to carry. Jesus never asked me to carry that burden. Oh, he is so much better at being God than I am. I am free to set them free...and let Him be God!
So, check out the book. I am pretty sure God has a message for you somewhere in it too. And tell Rick I sent you...www.lostsecret.org.
A life changed by God is a blessed life! Be blessed!
A Man of His Word
These random thoughts play through my mind daily. They are thoughts of Jesus and they are thoughts of you. Here is a glimpse of my day:
You will see Jesus coming near, His voice you will hear...
Praise the Lord, O my soul, His Name is to be praised.
Spend time in His presence, and become His essence.
He longs to hold you close, He longs to look in your face.
He wants to see His reflection in you, as you reflect His glory.
I can't get enough of this amazing love, I can't describe it or speak loudly enough.
I want you to know Him like this, to know who you are in Him.
How can I help you? How can I explain Him? I don't have the right words, but He does.
His word is His essence. It is WHO he is. It describes Him precisely.
There is no other God but Him. There is none above, on earth, or below...He is the great I AM.
He wants to be known. He wants to be praised. He wants to shower you with blessings.
He wants you to be in a position to receive from Him. He has a plan and wants you to walk in it.
Do you rest in His presence? He wants to give you rest.
He wants to give you direction for your life. The One who made you, knows all about you.
The One who made you, loves you perfectly. The One who made everything you see, sees you!
Draw close to Him and He will draw close to you.
Surrender your life to Him and He will give you MORE life!
He who has the Son has LIFE!
Bless the Lord, O my soul, for He has done wonderful things in my LIFE!
Pick up His word, your Bible, and ask Him to speak to you. It is HIS word and He is a man of HIS word...
You can count on it!
You will see Jesus coming near, His voice you will hear...
Praise the Lord, O my soul, His Name is to be praised.
Spend time in His presence, and become His essence.
He longs to hold you close, He longs to look in your face.
He wants to see His reflection in you, as you reflect His glory.
I can't get enough of this amazing love, I can't describe it or speak loudly enough.
I want you to know Him like this, to know who you are in Him.
How can I help you? How can I explain Him? I don't have the right words, but He does.
His word is His essence. It is WHO he is. It describes Him precisely.
There is no other God but Him. There is none above, on earth, or below...He is the great I AM.
He wants to be known. He wants to be praised. He wants to shower you with blessings.
He wants you to be in a position to receive from Him. He has a plan and wants you to walk in it.
Do you rest in His presence? He wants to give you rest.
He wants to give you direction for your life. The One who made you, knows all about you.
The One who made you, loves you perfectly. The One who made everything you see, sees you!
Draw close to Him and He will draw close to you.
Surrender your life to Him and He will give you MORE life!
He who has the Son has LIFE!
Bless the Lord, O my soul, for He has done wonderful things in my LIFE!
Pick up His word, your Bible, and ask Him to speak to you. It is HIS word and He is a man of HIS word...
You can count on it!
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Jump for Joy
I read a statement the other day that said: Jumping for Joy is Great Exercise! I loved that!
Yesterday, I experienced the worst headache of my life. On a scale of 1-10, my pain was a 20! It came on very quickly and I found myself in bed for several hours with a pillow under my head, and one over my head and knowing I needed a quick exit to the bathroom if necessary. The pain was very nauseating.
As I lay there in pain, I couldn't help but think of the pain that Jesus endured for me. It's beyond comprehension. This pain was just one part of my body. Though it seemed almost unbearable, I could still move the rest of my body, though I didn't want to.
I kept asking God what I needed to learn from the pain. Pain is a great teacher. It stops us in our tracks, literally. It takes precedence over every other thing in our lives. It gets our attention!
The Bible talks about the church as the Body of Christ. When one part suffers, the whole body suffers. I want to encourage you to get close to God. Ask him the hard questions. Am I doing what YOU want me to do? Am I going where YOU want me to go? Is my light shining for YOU or is it just making me look good?
I am so thankful that today, I am not suffering. My boys are happy that I am going to get to go on their field trip with them. I am in agreement today with my oldest son, "That the same One who made the body can heal the body!"
I am confident that he can heal His body too. If you confess Jesus as your Lord, you are a part of His body. Are you whole? He wants you to be. I want to jump for joy in Jesus' presence. I want to hear him say, "Well done, good and faithful servant!"
Will you jump for joy in His presence?
Yesterday, I experienced the worst headache of my life. On a scale of 1-10, my pain was a 20! It came on very quickly and I found myself in bed for several hours with a pillow under my head, and one over my head and knowing I needed a quick exit to the bathroom if necessary. The pain was very nauseating.
As I lay there in pain, I couldn't help but think of the pain that Jesus endured for me. It's beyond comprehension. This pain was just one part of my body. Though it seemed almost unbearable, I could still move the rest of my body, though I didn't want to.
I kept asking God what I needed to learn from the pain. Pain is a great teacher. It stops us in our tracks, literally. It takes precedence over every other thing in our lives. It gets our attention!
The Bible talks about the church as the Body of Christ. When one part suffers, the whole body suffers. I want to encourage you to get close to God. Ask him the hard questions. Am I doing what YOU want me to do? Am I going where YOU want me to go? Is my light shining for YOU or is it just making me look good?
I am so thankful that today, I am not suffering. My boys are happy that I am going to get to go on their field trip with them. I am in agreement today with my oldest son, "That the same One who made the body can heal the body!"
I am confident that he can heal His body too. If you confess Jesus as your Lord, you are a part of His body. Are you whole? He wants you to be. I want to jump for joy in Jesus' presence. I want to hear him say, "Well done, good and faithful servant!"
Will you jump for joy in His presence?
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Chosen!
When I was just nine years old, a man showed up at our front door.
This man was middle-aged and dressed in a suit. He told me he was from a church located on the other side of the river. I recognized the name of his church. This church would bring a bus through our neighborhood on Sunday mornings and transport children to church. When church was over, they would bring the kids home again. I was always curious what went on over at that church.
My mom had a religious upbringing and felt it was important to take us to church as well. We were C & E Christians mainly. My mom would always try to get us to church on Easter Sunday and we would go for awhile. And then maybe around Christmastime. We would go to church for awhile and then for some reason that would fade again. We always went to "our" church though. She would comment that the church that sent that bus around did it because they couldn't get enough people to come to their church, so they would pick up kids to fill their church.
So on this particular day, when this nice man showed up at our door, I was thinking he just needed another innocent kid to go to his church to fill a pew. But, it wasn't that way. He stood on the front porch and was so kind. He did tell me about his church, but he wasn't demanding at all. He gave me a little booklet to read. I remember feeling at peace in his presence, but scared to death that my mom would find out that I was talking to this guy. He must have sensed my fear and quickly left our house. I quickly disposed of his literature.
As I went back into our house, I was just waiting for someone to make fun of me or question what I was doing out there on the porch. Nevertheless, I couldn't shake the feeling of how special I felt. And how this man's only motive seemed to be to simply tell me that Jesus loved me.
I didn't have a bible of me own. So, I spent time in my mother's bedroom looking through her bible. My curiosity about Jesus became very real. I would try to read the bible, but not much of it made sense to me. I instead would fix my gaze on the beautifully illustrated pictures. I especially loved the one of Jesus coming in the clouds. I often wondered if that was really going to happen someday.
A few weeks went by and the man showed up at our door again. Cautiously, I went out to greet him. He asked me if I would want to go to his church and if I would want the bus to pick me up. He asked if I had any brothers or sisters that might want to come along too. He seemed so sincere. I knew that my mom would disapprove, so I told him probably not.
He was so patient and did not seem to be in a hurry at all. It was like he was sent there just to talk to me. He asked me if I knew that Jesus loved me. He asked me if I wanted Jesus to live in my heart. He told me that I could pray and that Jesus would answer my prayer. All of this was new to me and it made me nervous. How would I explain this to my mom? And I thought she would be so upset if she knew this man was on our front porch. Again, he must have sensed my fear, and kindly left.
I never saw him again. But, many years later, that scene came to my mind. At the age of 23, I again was asked if I knew that Jesus loved me. Shortly before this, I had told Jesus I would follow Him if He would teach me what that meant. Now, with her bible in hand, my aunt methodically worked her way through the book of John. When she was finished and with my heart opened wide, I truly understood that Jesus loved me enough to die for me.
I have been walking with Jesus for 22 years and again tonight the Lord took me back to that day on the front porch. He was seeking me when I was only 9 years old. I do believe the man on my front porch was obeying Jesus when he showed up at my door again. I believe that I was his assignment that day. It was really Jesus knocking on my heart's door. I am sorry it took me so many years to answer.
Jesus chose me. He sought after me. He pursued me. He let me hear him knocking on my heart's door.
Do you know that you are a chosen one? Do you know that He pursues you out of love? Will you answer the knock at the door? It's Jesus...let Him in...don't be like me and wait for years and years...open the door today...you will never regret it!
This man was middle-aged and dressed in a suit. He told me he was from a church located on the other side of the river. I recognized the name of his church. This church would bring a bus through our neighborhood on Sunday mornings and transport children to church. When church was over, they would bring the kids home again. I was always curious what went on over at that church.
My mom had a religious upbringing and felt it was important to take us to church as well. We were C & E Christians mainly. My mom would always try to get us to church on Easter Sunday and we would go for awhile. And then maybe around Christmastime. We would go to church for awhile and then for some reason that would fade again. We always went to "our" church though. She would comment that the church that sent that bus around did it because they couldn't get enough people to come to their church, so they would pick up kids to fill their church.
So on this particular day, when this nice man showed up at our door, I was thinking he just needed another innocent kid to go to his church to fill a pew. But, it wasn't that way. He stood on the front porch and was so kind. He did tell me about his church, but he wasn't demanding at all. He gave me a little booklet to read. I remember feeling at peace in his presence, but scared to death that my mom would find out that I was talking to this guy. He must have sensed my fear and quickly left our house. I quickly disposed of his literature.
As I went back into our house, I was just waiting for someone to make fun of me or question what I was doing out there on the porch. Nevertheless, I couldn't shake the feeling of how special I felt. And how this man's only motive seemed to be to simply tell me that Jesus loved me.
I didn't have a bible of me own. So, I spent time in my mother's bedroom looking through her bible. My curiosity about Jesus became very real. I would try to read the bible, but not much of it made sense to me. I instead would fix my gaze on the beautifully illustrated pictures. I especially loved the one of Jesus coming in the clouds. I often wondered if that was really going to happen someday.
A few weeks went by and the man showed up at our door again. Cautiously, I went out to greet him. He asked me if I would want to go to his church and if I would want the bus to pick me up. He asked if I had any brothers or sisters that might want to come along too. He seemed so sincere. I knew that my mom would disapprove, so I told him probably not.
He was so patient and did not seem to be in a hurry at all. It was like he was sent there just to talk to me. He asked me if I knew that Jesus loved me. He asked me if I wanted Jesus to live in my heart. He told me that I could pray and that Jesus would answer my prayer. All of this was new to me and it made me nervous. How would I explain this to my mom? And I thought she would be so upset if she knew this man was on our front porch. Again, he must have sensed my fear, and kindly left.
I never saw him again. But, many years later, that scene came to my mind. At the age of 23, I again was asked if I knew that Jesus loved me. Shortly before this, I had told Jesus I would follow Him if He would teach me what that meant. Now, with her bible in hand, my aunt methodically worked her way through the book of John. When she was finished and with my heart opened wide, I truly understood that Jesus loved me enough to die for me.
I have been walking with Jesus for 22 years and again tonight the Lord took me back to that day on the front porch. He was seeking me when I was only 9 years old. I do believe the man on my front porch was obeying Jesus when he showed up at my door again. I believe that I was his assignment that day. It was really Jesus knocking on my heart's door. I am sorry it took me so many years to answer.
Jesus chose me. He sought after me. He pursued me. He let me hear him knocking on my heart's door.
Do you know that you are a chosen one? Do you know that He pursues you out of love? Will you answer the knock at the door? It's Jesus...let Him in...don't be like me and wait for years and years...open the door today...you will never regret it!
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
What's a Love Note?
If this is your first time to the site, and you are wondering "What is a Love Note from God?", I encourage you to read my story, entitled "Daughter of the King". You will find it under "Blog Archive" in the February file. Look on the left side of this page and click on February. Scroll through the blogs until you see my story. Be blessed...God is longing to show His love to you!
He Looks At You With Eyes Of Love
Some of my friends have been sharing "love notes" with me. They are looking "up" and looking "for" their own personal message from God. It is really exciting to hear what God is doing in their lives!
My latest love note came on a very, very cloudy cold day the week of July 4th. My husband and I and our two little boys were spending a few days at a campground. This is a really fun place to be and next to Disney, the boys find it their favorite spot to spend vacation time. Well, this particular week was unseasonably cool like most of the summer has been. It was in the 50s and we were in pants and sweatshirts.
We had been fishing and had gotten rained on. We had been to the dog park, to the mini golf and were marking off our list of to-dos in spite of the weather. One of our favorite things to do at the campground is paddle boat around the lake. We decided to take our chances and go out on the lake and pray that it didn't rain too hard for us to get back into shore. We paid for our 30 minute cruise and headed out on the lake. It was very relaxing to hear the water hit the boat and at the same time knowing our legs were getting a work-out. We were enjoying our time and just chatting. As we rounded the end of the lake, the sky had turned darker. Being a little fearful of lightning and getting stuck out on the water, we decided it was time to head back.
No eye has seen,
My latest love note came on a very, very cloudy cold day the week of July 4th. My husband and I and our two little boys were spending a few days at a campground. This is a really fun place to be and next to Disney, the boys find it their favorite spot to spend vacation time. Well, this particular week was unseasonably cool like most of the summer has been. It was in the 50s and we were in pants and sweatshirts.
We had been fishing and had gotten rained on. We had been to the dog park, to the mini golf and were marking off our list of to-dos in spite of the weather. One of our favorite things to do at the campground is paddle boat around the lake. We decided to take our chances and go out on the lake and pray that it didn't rain too hard for us to get back into shore. We paid for our 30 minute cruise and headed out on the lake. It was very relaxing to hear the water hit the boat and at the same time knowing our legs were getting a work-out. We were enjoying our time and just chatting. As we rounded the end of the lake, the sky had turned darker. Being a little fearful of lightning and getting stuck out on the water, we decided it was time to head back.
I still wanted to squeeze out any enjoyment we could get from our ride back, so I said to my little "sky watcher", "Why don't we look for heart-shaped clouds". I didn't get the words out of my mouth when he said, "Look, Mom there is one right behind us." And there was. It was a perfect heart in a little bit lighter shade of gray against the dark gray backdrop. I was so awed. We all giggled, because they thought it was a little silly for me to suggest finding clouds in one big blanket of dark sky anyway. Once again I experienced that moment of "speechless". I am always grateful that the Lord continues to bless us and to build my little guys' faith.
We watched it dissipate and turned to look toward the shore. Just as I did I noticed another cloud formation. It was a huge eye. You could make out the top lid, the bottom lid, the eyeball and the pupil. I got so excited! I said "Hey, guys, look at that huge EYE!" In a matter of seconds, where the pupil was located it began to take the shape of a heart! I am NOT kidding! It was incredible! We were all amazed! A huge eye with a heart in the middle of it.
We watched it dissipate and turned to look toward the shore. Just as I did I noticed another cloud formation. It was a huge eye. You could make out the top lid, the bottom lid, the eyeball and the pupil. I got so excited! I said "Hey, guys, look at that huge EYE!" In a matter of seconds, where the pupil was located it began to take the shape of a heart! I am NOT kidding! It was incredible! We were all amazed! A huge eye with a heart in the middle of it.
I fumbled for my camera. I had it safely nestled in a ziplock bag in the center of the boat. Unfortunately, by the time I got my camera ready, the formation was already disappearing. As you might guess, I was pretty disappointed. My husband gave me these reassuring words. He said, "It's okay...I think the Lord just wants you to know that He looks at you with eyes of love". Awwww...see how my husband's heart is responding to God's intimacy. How can you resist such love?
I wish I had the right words to describe my feelings. I hope you will bear with me, because I sound like a broken record. I remain "speechless" in His presence...
I wish I had the right words to describe my feelings. I hope you will bear with me, because I sound like a broken record. I remain "speechless" in His presence...
No eye has seen,
no ear has heard,
no mind has conceived
what God has prepared
for those who love him.
1 Cor. 2:8-10
Monday, July 27, 2009
A Real Nail Biter
Early this year while working through a bible study entitled "John, the Beloved Disciple" I answered a question. The question presented was: If you could change something about yourself, what would it be and why. The answer came quickly. I would stop biting my nails! My reason: I think it is a poor testimony to God!
I have been praying about being a nail biter for many years. I have stopped at times, used horrible tasting nail polish and even had fake nails put on ~ which I BIT OFF! Talk about disgusting...that was MANY, MANY years ago though. And I still found myself hating my hands and hating that terrible habit.
If someone wanted to take a picture of me, I would try to hide my hands. I read a story about Princess Diana after she died and her photographer told the same story about her. Interesting, I thought...she's so beautiful. Around the same time, I watched a home movie and there I was at age three biting my nails. WOW! Now that has been a long-standing problem.
So early this year, I decided I was ready to tackle this problem again. I was in a dilemma PLEADING with God to help me STOP BITING MY NAILS. I prayed once again and told God that I would definitely stop this time because I wanted to honor HIM! I would discipline my mind to stop the thoughts that seemed to be causing my anxiety and resulting in the nail biting. I would quickly analyze them, pray about them or confess them, or whatever I needed to do, to move on. It worked a lot! Other times, I would pray about it and later look down at my hands and see my nail-bitten fingers and have that same awful feeling. I was disappointed in my lack of discipline. I sometimes would just convince myself that it was just the way I am!
That would only last awhile, before I would be wishing for pretty nails again.
Sometime the end of May, as I was driving down the road...God seems to use those times when I am all alone to speak the loudest...mmm...that must mean I am hearing the loudest at those times... Anyway, I was driving down the road and found myself chewing on my nails. I recognized immediately what I was doing and stopped biting my nails. I prayed about whatever was on my mind. I immediately felt better. I felt successful and convinced myself that I responded so quickly this time that I must have this thing whipped!
Not so quickly now...I drove another 3 minutes, and guess what...my hands were in my mouth again! With no apparent effort, I was doing it again. I was ticked!!! I felt like such a failure!!!
I immediately cried out to Jesus...Please, Lord, help me! Why do I do this? I hate this about myself...it is a terrible testimony to you! I tell people how you bless me and give me peace and that you are so faithful, yet here I am filled with anxiety about so many things!
I was so honest with the Lord and I knew he was listening.
The Lord spoke into my heart and I will never forget it. He said, Tammy, you take immediate responsibility for everything and for everyone. When these thoughts come to your mind, you think it is up to you to solve all the problems in your little world.
I said, But, Lord, I can't solve all the problems in my world. A lot of this stuff hasn't even happened and if it did, I couldn't stop it anyway. I can't change anyone or change their circumstances or fix anyone! And the amazing thing is it is all in my head! All of these random thoughts present themselves as real, and most of it is not even reality!!! Why do I think that if I "think" about it long enough, I will be able to "solve" it? As I uttered that to the Lord, I saw it so clearly. I felt a huge weight come off of my shoulders.
I have been set free to let God solve all of the problems in my world! WOW! He is big enough! I have stopped biting my nails, and when those random thoughts enter my mind, I recognize they are not for me. I dismiss them and I thank God that He is God.
I am enjoying my new nails and my aged but beautiful hands. They are the ones that God gave me and they are His. I want to use them to glorify Him. I want my hands to be a testament to the One who carries the weight of the world on His shoulders and and to the One who watches over me!
So, what's your story? Where do you turn to solve all the "little problems" in your world? Maybe yours isn't as evident as mine like the awful habit of nail biting. Maybe you've convinced yourself that you are not like me at all. Hopefully, you're not. But, if the Lord has used my story to nudge you, I urge you to be completely honest with Him. He knows you intimately and He wants to set you free from all anxiety. Cast all your cares upon Him for He cares for you! He is an amazing God! Put your trust in Him and I promise you will not be disappointed!
I have been praying about being a nail biter for many years. I have stopped at times, used horrible tasting nail polish and even had fake nails put on ~ which I BIT OFF! Talk about disgusting...that was MANY, MANY years ago though. And I still found myself hating my hands and hating that terrible habit.
If someone wanted to take a picture of me, I would try to hide my hands. I read a story about Princess Diana after she died and her photographer told the same story about her. Interesting, I thought...she's so beautiful. Around the same time, I watched a home movie and there I was at age three biting my nails. WOW! Now that has been a long-standing problem.
So early this year, I decided I was ready to tackle this problem again. I was in a dilemma PLEADING with God to help me STOP BITING MY NAILS. I prayed once again and told God that I would definitely stop this time because I wanted to honor HIM! I would discipline my mind to stop the thoughts that seemed to be causing my anxiety and resulting in the nail biting. I would quickly analyze them, pray about them or confess them, or whatever I needed to do, to move on. It worked a lot! Other times, I would pray about it and later look down at my hands and see my nail-bitten fingers and have that same awful feeling. I was disappointed in my lack of discipline. I sometimes would just convince myself that it was just the way I am!
That would only last awhile, before I would be wishing for pretty nails again.
Sometime the end of May, as I was driving down the road...God seems to use those times when I am all alone to speak the loudest...mmm...that must mean I am hearing the loudest at those times... Anyway, I was driving down the road and found myself chewing on my nails. I recognized immediately what I was doing and stopped biting my nails. I prayed about whatever was on my mind. I immediately felt better. I felt successful and convinced myself that I responded so quickly this time that I must have this thing whipped!
Not so quickly now...I drove another 3 minutes, and guess what...my hands were in my mouth again! With no apparent effort, I was doing it again. I was ticked!!! I felt like such a failure!!!
I immediately cried out to Jesus...Please, Lord, help me! Why do I do this? I hate this about myself...it is a terrible testimony to you! I tell people how you bless me and give me peace and that you are so faithful, yet here I am filled with anxiety about so many things!
I was so honest with the Lord and I knew he was listening.
The Lord spoke into my heart and I will never forget it. He said, Tammy, you take immediate responsibility for everything and for everyone. When these thoughts come to your mind, you think it is up to you to solve all the problems in your little world.
I said, But, Lord, I can't solve all the problems in my world. A lot of this stuff hasn't even happened and if it did, I couldn't stop it anyway. I can't change anyone or change their circumstances or fix anyone! And the amazing thing is it is all in my head! All of these random thoughts present themselves as real, and most of it is not even reality!!! Why do I think that if I "think" about it long enough, I will be able to "solve" it? As I uttered that to the Lord, I saw it so clearly. I felt a huge weight come off of my shoulders.
I have been set free to let God solve all of the problems in my world! WOW! He is big enough! I have stopped biting my nails, and when those random thoughts enter my mind, I recognize they are not for me. I dismiss them and I thank God that He is God.
I am enjoying my new nails and my aged but beautiful hands. They are the ones that God gave me and they are His. I want to use them to glorify Him. I want my hands to be a testament to the One who carries the weight of the world on His shoulders and and to the One who watches over me!
So, what's your story? Where do you turn to solve all the "little problems" in your world? Maybe yours isn't as evident as mine like the awful habit of nail biting. Maybe you've convinced yourself that you are not like me at all. Hopefully, you're not. But, if the Lord has used my story to nudge you, I urge you to be completely honest with Him. He knows you intimately and He wants to set you free from all anxiety. Cast all your cares upon Him for He cares for you! He is an amazing God! Put your trust in Him and I promise you will not be disappointed!
Happy Summer!
Hello again! I have been enjoying this Summer so much being home with my boys! It is going by so quickly. We just finished our first Swim Team season and it was so much fun. The boys learned a lot and even were part of a relay team that set a new county record!
I have also been busy planning my daughter's wedding, which has been a lot of fun too. The ball is rolling very quickly now and reality is setting in. My little girl is going to be a wife and I can't wait until the day they decide to make me a grandmother! No pressure, though, haha! I'm so happy for them~
Every day I have seen God's hand guiding our steps and blessing our lives. He is so good and He is so faithful! He has done mighty things in my life that I can't wait to share with you. I hope that your eyes are upon Him and that you are resting in His love for you everyday!
A note from my daily calendar: You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. Matt. 22:37
If we place God first in our lives, all else will fall rightly into place, and love shall reign supreme.
I have also been busy planning my daughter's wedding, which has been a lot of fun too. The ball is rolling very quickly now and reality is setting in. My little girl is going to be a wife and I can't wait until the day they decide to make me a grandmother! No pressure, though, haha! I'm so happy for them~
Every day I have seen God's hand guiding our steps and blessing our lives. He is so good and He is so faithful! He has done mighty things in my life that I can't wait to share with you. I hope that your eyes are upon Him and that you are resting in His love for you everyday!
A note from my daily calendar: You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. Matt. 22:37
If we place God first in our lives, all else will fall rightly into place, and love shall reign supreme.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
They Call Me "Mom"
Happy Mother's Day!
What a special day it was today. I am so blessed to have the privilege to be called "Mom" or "Mommy" to four beautiful children. I also will have the privilege one day to hold my baby whom Jesus is now holding safely in His arms. I wanted to dedicate this blog to them and tell them how much they mean to me.
My beautiful daughter "a pearl of great price" is so special to me. She is very gifted and very fun to be with. I am so thankful for her friendship. She is a busy girl! We work together in the floral business and I love the designs that she puts together and to watch her creative mind at work. She works as nurse as well. She has experienced things that we can only imagine and it has brought her wisdom beyond her years. I am so proud of her. Some of my favorite times with her is when we are so tired that we begin to reminisce about "old" times and laugh so hard, we can't breathe! We are planning her wedding and it is such a blessed time. To see the way the Lord is just allowing all of the pieces to fall in place is such an amazing story. Soon I will "get" another son, and I can't wait for him to join our family. I love you both!
My #1 Son is "a mountain of strength, a teacher and an enlightened one". He has made me so proud. He is also very gifted physically, intellectually and has a big heart. He is so on fire for the Chiropractic profession. God is working mightily in His life and has placed him on a path that he could never have imagined. I love spending time with just the two of us. We talk on the phone often and I am so blessed to have him as a very special friend. He has encouraged me, prayed for me and amazed me by his maturity and his vision for health and life. He can't wait for the opportunity to teach the world how God has designed us to heal from "above, down, inside, out - ADIO". I love you!
My third child was a baby I never got to hold. We lost our baby at 14 weeks of pregnancy. Though our hearts were broken, we knew that God was faithful. We named our baby, Toby, meaning - "God is with us". We look forward to the day that we can hold our baby and until then God continues to heal my heart and dry my tears. Mommy loves you so much!
My fourth child or Baby A was born 100 minutes before his brother. He likes being the "oldest". He is "a prophet of God". He loves to learn and loves technology. He has a beautiful smile and always makes me laugh. He has been a "Mama's Boy" from the first time I held him. He is also gifted musically and is a great actor. I LOVE all of the hugs that he gives me and when he tells me everyday that he loves me. I love the way his mind is always working and to listen to all of his ideas. He LOVES to play games and is the "luckiest duck" in the family! He is always helping me do lots of things. I am so proud of him and can't wait to see what God has planned for his life! I love you Baby A!
And lastly, my Baby B. He will always be my baby - my "angel of God"! He reminds me so much of my oldest son. He loves to play sports, but is also very gifted intellectually. He loves bugs, little creatures and playing in water. He likes the Cubs and building fires in Grandpa's fire pit. He also loves to count my money. We love to look for shapes in the clouds together. He has seen LOTS of heart-shaped clouds and even a blue "W" on New Year's Day this year. We decided it was God's message to him that this is "THE YEAR FOR THE CUBBIES!" You heard it here first, folks! He loves to sit on my lap and for me to give him back rubs. I cherish this time in our lives. I love you Baby B!
Thank you, Lord, for the blessing of my children!
They have brought me so much love, so much life and so much laughter! You have been so good to me to allow me to be the mother of these beautiful lives! Bless each one and draw their hearts to their Heavenly Father who loves them perfectly! And help me to love them the best way that I can as their mother as I draw my strength and wisdom from you. I cherish every day knowing that we never have the promise of tomorrow.
Thank you for my own mother who taught me self-less love.
Lord, THANK YOU for my children and thank you for TODAY!
What a special day it was today. I am so blessed to have the privilege to be called "Mom" or "Mommy" to four beautiful children. I also will have the privilege one day to hold my baby whom Jesus is now holding safely in His arms. I wanted to dedicate this blog to them and tell them how much they mean to me.
My beautiful daughter "a pearl of great price" is so special to me. She is very gifted and very fun to be with. I am so thankful for her friendship. She is a busy girl! We work together in the floral business and I love the designs that she puts together and to watch her creative mind at work. She works as nurse as well. She has experienced things that we can only imagine and it has brought her wisdom beyond her years. I am so proud of her. Some of my favorite times with her is when we are so tired that we begin to reminisce about "old" times and laugh so hard, we can't breathe! We are planning her wedding and it is such a blessed time. To see the way the Lord is just allowing all of the pieces to fall in place is such an amazing story. Soon I will "get" another son, and I can't wait for him to join our family. I love you both!
My #1 Son is "a mountain of strength, a teacher and an enlightened one". He has made me so proud. He is also very gifted physically, intellectually and has a big heart. He is so on fire for the Chiropractic profession. God is working mightily in His life and has placed him on a path that he could never have imagined. I love spending time with just the two of us. We talk on the phone often and I am so blessed to have him as a very special friend. He has encouraged me, prayed for me and amazed me by his maturity and his vision for health and life. He can't wait for the opportunity to teach the world how God has designed us to heal from "above, down, inside, out - ADIO". I love you!
My third child was a baby I never got to hold. We lost our baby at 14 weeks of pregnancy. Though our hearts were broken, we knew that God was faithful. We named our baby, Toby, meaning - "God is with us". We look forward to the day that we can hold our baby and until then God continues to heal my heart and dry my tears. Mommy loves you so much!
My fourth child or Baby A was born 100 minutes before his brother. He likes being the "oldest". He is "a prophet of God". He loves to learn and loves technology. He has a beautiful smile and always makes me laugh. He has been a "Mama's Boy" from the first time I held him. He is also gifted musically and is a great actor. I LOVE all of the hugs that he gives me and when he tells me everyday that he loves me. I love the way his mind is always working and to listen to all of his ideas. He LOVES to play games and is the "luckiest duck" in the family! He is always helping me do lots of things. I am so proud of him and can't wait to see what God has planned for his life! I love you Baby A!
And lastly, my Baby B. He will always be my baby - my "angel of God"! He reminds me so much of my oldest son. He loves to play sports, but is also very gifted intellectually. He loves bugs, little creatures and playing in water. He likes the Cubs and building fires in Grandpa's fire pit. He also loves to count my money. We love to look for shapes in the clouds together. He has seen LOTS of heart-shaped clouds and even a blue "W" on New Year's Day this year. We decided it was God's message to him that this is "THE YEAR FOR THE CUBBIES!" You heard it here first, folks! He loves to sit on my lap and for me to give him back rubs. I cherish this time in our lives. I love you Baby B!
Thank you, Lord, for the blessing of my children!
They have brought me so much love, so much life and so much laughter! You have been so good to me to allow me to be the mother of these beautiful lives! Bless each one and draw their hearts to their Heavenly Father who loves them perfectly! And help me to love them the best way that I can as their mother as I draw my strength and wisdom from you. I cherish every day knowing that we never have the promise of tomorrow.
Thank you for my own mother who taught me self-less love.
Lord, THANK YOU for my children and thank you for TODAY!
Monday, May 4, 2009
Daddy!
Do you know that God is our "Daddy!" He's not a grandpa to anyone! Do you know him as Abba, Father? Daddy, God! We never outgrow our need for our Heavenly Father.
Twenty-two years ago, I called out to a God still questioning if he even existed. I had watched the movie, Jesus of Nazareth. At the end of the three night movie, I prayed and said, "God, I feel like you are wanting me to follow you. IF you are real, show me and teach me what it means to follow you!"
He did and I do!
If you have that same "feeling" that this God is seeking you, he is! If you have a desire to know him, but you don't understand ALL of it...it's okay. He promises to teach you as you follow him!
You can pray now:
Heavenly Father, I admit that I can't do life without you. I fall short and I accept that Jesus paid the price for all of my offenses toward you. I want to stop what I am doing and I want to start living a new way - your way. Teach me how to do that.
You need to know that God knows your heart. Maybe you have more to say and more to confess to him. Maybe you have lots of things to ask him about. He's big enough to handle it!
I am so excited for you! Life cannot be more exciting than to know that the God who made everything you see and gives you every breath is walking with you and he is FOR you!
Start getting to know Him by reading the bible. I started in the book of John in the New Testament. I really liked the words in red...they were Jesus' words. Find some Christian friends to do life with...seek a church where you can get connected! I did all of this on my own and God was faithful.
Was it scary...you bet! Was it worth it...absolutely! Are Christians perfect...absolutely NOT! They are just like you and have made a life-changing choice to do life WITH God.
Did I mention already how excited I am for you! Angels are singing in heaven over you and YOUR Daddy has his eye on you!!! He loves you perfectly!
If you have made this decision, would you please email me and tell me your story. I would love to hear how God is working in your life! poppen@mtco.com Bless you!
Twenty-two years ago, I called out to a God still questioning if he even existed. I had watched the movie, Jesus of Nazareth. At the end of the three night movie, I prayed and said, "God, I feel like you are wanting me to follow you. IF you are real, show me and teach me what it means to follow you!"
He did and I do!
If you have that same "feeling" that this God is seeking you, he is! If you have a desire to know him, but you don't understand ALL of it...it's okay. He promises to teach you as you follow him!
You can pray now:
Heavenly Father, I admit that I can't do life without you. I fall short and I accept that Jesus paid the price for all of my offenses toward you. I want to stop what I am doing and I want to start living a new way - your way. Teach me how to do that.
You need to know that God knows your heart. Maybe you have more to say and more to confess to him. Maybe you have lots of things to ask him about. He's big enough to handle it!
I am so excited for you! Life cannot be more exciting than to know that the God who made everything you see and gives you every breath is walking with you and he is FOR you!
Start getting to know Him by reading the bible. I started in the book of John in the New Testament. I really liked the words in red...they were Jesus' words. Find some Christian friends to do life with...seek a church where you can get connected! I did all of this on my own and God was faithful.
Was it scary...you bet! Was it worth it...absolutely! Are Christians perfect...absolutely NOT! They are just like you and have made a life-changing choice to do life WITH God.
Did I mention already how excited I am for you! Angels are singing in heaven over you and YOUR Daddy has his eye on you!!! He loves you perfectly!
If you have made this decision, would you please email me and tell me your story. I would love to hear how God is working in your life! poppen@mtco.com Bless you!
Stop and Look at Me!
I have recently started reading a book by Tommy Tenney entitled The God Chasers. It is a great encouragement for those wanting "more" of God.
This morning, I read: Do you ever want to climb up on God's lap and take his face in your hands and turn it toward you, so that he is looking right at you!
After reading that question, I immediately went back to the days when my children did that to me. Often, well anytime, they didn't have my full attention and wanted something, they would do that exact thing. It made me smile just thinking of those days. You know your kids feel comfortable doing that. They need you and know how to get access to your face. They need the eye to eye connection so that they know that you are listening to them. I remember times like that when they would look me right in the eye, and I would think you are so cute and so sweet and I love you so much...name it...it's yours!
I haven't forgotten other times, that it was quite irritating to be rudely interrupted. It would be at those times, that God would remind me how precious and innocent these little lives were. And then, I would go back to...you are so cute and sweet and I love you so much...name it...it's yours!
I think that God wants that from us. He wants us to have the confidence to get on his lap and take his face in our hands and turn his head toward us and look him fully in the face. That is where we are filled with him and receive his full blessing.
You know there are days when we are dancing around all of our problems and acting as if it is up to us to solve our problems and our spouse's and our kids' and...the list goes on and on. There is always someone in need. God wants us to stop long enough to look up.
He is always there encouraging us. "Yeah, Tammy, I know what you're looking for! It can only be found in me. I have all the love, all the acceptance, all the wisdom, all the courage, all the strength, all the power you need! Stop and look at me!" Doesn't that sound like a loving father just looking out for you. "Stop and look at me! I have what you need."
I pray you find rest for your weary soul today...looking fully in His wonderful face!
This morning, I read: Do you ever want to climb up on God's lap and take his face in your hands and turn it toward you, so that he is looking right at you!
After reading that question, I immediately went back to the days when my children did that to me. Often, well anytime, they didn't have my full attention and wanted something, they would do that exact thing. It made me smile just thinking of those days. You know your kids feel comfortable doing that. They need you and know how to get access to your face. They need the eye to eye connection so that they know that you are listening to them. I remember times like that when they would look me right in the eye, and I would think you are so cute and so sweet and I love you so much...name it...it's yours!
I haven't forgotten other times, that it was quite irritating to be rudely interrupted. It would be at those times, that God would remind me how precious and innocent these little lives were. And then, I would go back to...you are so cute and sweet and I love you so much...name it...it's yours!
I think that God wants that from us. He wants us to have the confidence to get on his lap and take his face in our hands and turn his head toward us and look him fully in the face. That is where we are filled with him and receive his full blessing.
You know there are days when we are dancing around all of our problems and acting as if it is up to us to solve our problems and our spouse's and our kids' and...the list goes on and on. There is always someone in need. God wants us to stop long enough to look up.
He is always there encouraging us. "Yeah, Tammy, I know what you're looking for! It can only be found in me. I have all the love, all the acceptance, all the wisdom, all the courage, all the strength, all the power you need! Stop and look at me!" Doesn't that sound like a loving father just looking out for you. "Stop and look at me! I have what you need."
I pray you find rest for your weary soul today...looking fully in His wonderful face!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Faith Like a Child
My son is really interested in the computer. He likes to play games and has recently learned how to cut and paste things. He finds stuff like the "Cubs" logo. He pasted that on the desktop of his dad's computer. He did it without any help, just innocently trying stuff until it works.
On the way home from church Sunday, he asked me if he could put together a power point. I said, "I don't think so, Honey. I don't know how to do that, and Daddy won't be home for a while. And I really don't want you messing with the computer". He said, "Well, I saw Microsoft Word Power Point 2003 on the computer and I think I can figure it out".
He and his brother have a collection of twenty troll dolls. They win them as prizes at school for various reasons. He thought it would be cool to do a Troll Power Point. So, he said, "Well, will you at least let me look for the pictures that match the ones we have". I agreed. Within minutes he had searched, cut and pasted about five of them onto Microsoft Word. This went on for awhile. I was busy doing Mom things while they were having fun searching for pictures of their trolls on the internet.
After an hour or so, he came to be and said, "Mommy, I have found most of them, but I was getting really frustrated, because this one was really hard to find". He went on to say, "So I walked away from the computer. I said, God, I have tried everything and have done all that I know to do". He continued, "So, Lord, it is your turn to do your part". He said after he prayed, he went back to the computer. He hit "Search Again" and with a huge smile, he continued, "and two pictures popped up". I said, "Honey, that is so cool. Did you remember to thank God when he did that?" He said, "Yes, Mommy, I did thank him!"
I was so blessed. My first thought was how blessed I was that he went to God. I thought how insightful that he would express himself to God so honestly. And then I was in awe that God answered his prayer instantly. God cares about what we care about. What a seemingly insignificant activity. But, I know that God was using it to build his faith.
My boys spent several hours and were excited to share their 20-page power point with family, friends and their 2nd grade classrooms. They found pictures and backgrounds for each one. They also gave each of them names and descriptions of their interests and backgrounds. It was pretty impressive, if my opinion counts.
I am even more impressed with their faith and God's faithfulness. I am certain God will use their giftedness in their lives and hopefully to glorify himself. I am also feeling convicted by this child like faith.
I don't know how to do a power point. Want to know a secret? I have never tried. I have never had the innocence to want to venture on the computer very far. I might mess something up or worse the computer may crash. I'm pretty sure they weren't concerned about either one. They just took their chances, were not afraid of making mistakes and they persevered. And when they couldn't do it on their own...they asked for help...divine help.
Imagine God on his throne with multitudes of voices and multitudes of prayers being lifted to his ears. There are wars and rumors of wars... The foundations of the world as we know it, are being shaken. Then in an instant, he hears the cry of my son for help. He immediately answers. I'm so thankful that God is still secure on his throne...so secure that in the midst of all the turmoil we are in, he attends to the heart of a child!
What a loving God we serve. Won't you turn to him with the same child like faith and ask him for what you need. You can be specific, he already knows all the details anyway...and when he answers, don't forget to thank him!
I pray you will be blessed today!
On the way home from church Sunday, he asked me if he could put together a power point. I said, "I don't think so, Honey. I don't know how to do that, and Daddy won't be home for a while. And I really don't want you messing with the computer". He said, "Well, I saw Microsoft Word Power Point 2003 on the computer and I think I can figure it out".
He and his brother have a collection of twenty troll dolls. They win them as prizes at school for various reasons. He thought it would be cool to do a Troll Power Point. So, he said, "Well, will you at least let me look for the pictures that match the ones we have". I agreed. Within minutes he had searched, cut and pasted about five of them onto Microsoft Word. This went on for awhile. I was busy doing Mom things while they were having fun searching for pictures of their trolls on the internet.
After an hour or so, he came to be and said, "Mommy, I have found most of them, but I was getting really frustrated, because this one was really hard to find". He went on to say, "So I walked away from the computer. I said, God, I have tried everything and have done all that I know to do". He continued, "So, Lord, it is your turn to do your part". He said after he prayed, he went back to the computer. He hit "Search Again" and with a huge smile, he continued, "and two pictures popped up". I said, "Honey, that is so cool. Did you remember to thank God when he did that?" He said, "Yes, Mommy, I did thank him!"
I was so blessed. My first thought was how blessed I was that he went to God. I thought how insightful that he would express himself to God so honestly. And then I was in awe that God answered his prayer instantly. God cares about what we care about. What a seemingly insignificant activity. But, I know that God was using it to build his faith.
My boys spent several hours and were excited to share their 20-page power point with family, friends and their 2nd grade classrooms. They found pictures and backgrounds for each one. They also gave each of them names and descriptions of their interests and backgrounds. It was pretty impressive, if my opinion counts.
I am even more impressed with their faith and God's faithfulness. I am certain God will use their giftedness in their lives and hopefully to glorify himself. I am also feeling convicted by this child like faith.
I don't know how to do a power point. Want to know a secret? I have never tried. I have never had the innocence to want to venture on the computer very far. I might mess something up or worse the computer may crash. I'm pretty sure they weren't concerned about either one. They just took their chances, were not afraid of making mistakes and they persevered. And when they couldn't do it on their own...they asked for help...divine help.
Imagine God on his throne with multitudes of voices and multitudes of prayers being lifted to his ears. There are wars and rumors of wars... The foundations of the world as we know it, are being shaken. Then in an instant, he hears the cry of my son for help. He immediately answers. I'm so thankful that God is still secure on his throne...so secure that in the midst of all the turmoil we are in, he attends to the heart of a child!
What a loving God we serve. Won't you turn to him with the same child like faith and ask him for what you need. You can be specific, he already knows all the details anyway...and when he answers, don't forget to thank him!
I pray you will be blessed today!
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Daughter of the King - My Story
Some of you have been looking for my story. It is entitled "Daughter of the King - My Story".
You will find it to the left. It is under BLOG ARCHIVE. Just click on February and scroll down to the story and crown cloud picture.
Blessings!
Tammy
You will find it to the left. It is under BLOG ARCHIVE. Just click on February and scroll down to the story and crown cloud picture.
Blessings!
Tammy
Our Jealous God
The Lord continues to bless me with his glory written in the sky! He is so amazing!
While driving a few days ago, I was feeling a little blue. I was praying (praising) through that all morning. I glanced up into the scattered cloudy day, and saw a huge fluffy heart cloud. I was so thankful.
But in a matter of seconds, I saw another shape. It was clouds forming a heart shape, but it was like a cut-out. The brilliant blue sky shone through the middle. It kept getting larger and larger. It was as if God was saying, "Watch this!" At the same time, the radio was playing a song. The lyrics were, "I don't want you to ever doubt how much I love you!" And it was if God was saying "Do you hear me?" I was brought to tears! I am so undeserving of all of this affection. But that's the God we serve. He loves us even though we are so undeserving.
I felt a deep impression in my heart and was reminded that my God is a jealous God. He doesn't want anything or anyone else to have first place in my heart. Only He knows us perfectly and knows exactly what we need. Why would we go anywhere else?
I pray that you will stop now and look up and praise the One who is so deserving of our love and adoration. He inhabits the praise of His people and he is enthralled with the beauty of His bride!
While driving a few days ago, I was feeling a little blue. I was praying (praising) through that all morning. I glanced up into the scattered cloudy day, and saw a huge fluffy heart cloud. I was so thankful.
But in a matter of seconds, I saw another shape. It was clouds forming a heart shape, but it was like a cut-out. The brilliant blue sky shone through the middle. It kept getting larger and larger. It was as if God was saying, "Watch this!" At the same time, the radio was playing a song. The lyrics were, "I don't want you to ever doubt how much I love you!" And it was if God was saying "Do you hear me?" I was brought to tears! I am so undeserving of all of this affection. But that's the God we serve. He loves us even though we are so undeserving.
I felt a deep impression in my heart and was reminded that my God is a jealous God. He doesn't want anything or anyone else to have first place in my heart. Only He knows us perfectly and knows exactly what we need. Why would we go anywhere else?
I pray that you will stop now and look up and praise the One who is so deserving of our love and adoration. He inhabits the praise of His people and he is enthralled with the beauty of His bride!
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