I know not a great title, but I have a feeling I may touch on more than just "one" thing so let's just call it thinking part 2. We leave tomorrow for home and I must say despite the head cold that has tried to come and the sinus pressure headache I've dealt with each day, this has been the best winter trip thus far. The weather has been SIMPLY amazing! You know though there is a lesson in that. How many times do we let those feelings keep us from doing something we want? Those times when we use the excuse "I don't feel like it". I could have let the headache dictate my trip, but with the view and a schedule-less week why let something like that get me down. You can do what you want to do, regardless of how you feel. That being said, I am all for doing for other people (some times a little too much), but a new thought for 2012, do what you can to make people happy but not at the cost of losing yourself. Be who God created you to be and you will be happy. Does that mean things will always go your way? Sadly no, but you can smile even when it doesn't. Eventually if you keep smiling, your heart will catch up.
A new year is almost here....walk into 2012 with your head held high and with no regrets. Leave in 2011 what God wants left. Don't drag your same mess that God set you free from this year into next year. Walk in that freedom and enjoy the next stage of your journey. Think of it like this, yesterday is the fuel you put into your vehicle called today on this journey/travel to a set destination(tomorrow). Is that fuel going to keep you on empty? In other words going no where because you are stuck on what you didn't do, what you should have done, what you wish you could change aka as regrets, or is that fuel going to be what drives you into today? Is it going to be the force that helps you make the change you need to, that makes you a better you, if nothing more than to slow down and say wow God!
Watching the sunset again tonight, those colors were simply amazing! Only God could paint the colors like He did and only God could put you together the way He did. He made you to be you. He knows what drives you, what hurts you, what warms your heart, and what keeps you going. If He had wanted you to act and think like someone else, He wouldn't have made us unique. There are things that only you can do, problems that only you can solve, and people that only you can touch. Make the most of this thing called today, it's His gift to you. (and if you mess up, He gives you a second chance called tomorrow).
Looking out over the ocean again tonight, I was reminded of just how much He loves us. His love has no end, just like the ocean. I couldn't see where it ended, can you? One ocean flows into another and it just keeps going, just like His love flows into each of us and we keep passing it along.
So to sum it all up......Make the most of each day. Make it count and make a difference(even if only you and God know that you did). Remember His smile and approval is all that counts. When you find out who you are in Him, your do starts to flow out. He has a plan/journey that only He could dream up for you His princesses(or prince), enjoy it...He promised the pieces would all come together for your good in the end(His timing not ours). Sometimes what really matters is not a to do list. Care for others, love as much as you can, give it all you have got, and trust Him to take care of you! Pour back into yourself so that you can pour out to others and watch the overflow start to happen. When our priorities start to line up with His, amazing things happen. Love yourself like He loves you and be happy with the you that you are! Trust me if He wants you to change, He'll let you know ;-) Believe in yourself and others will too. Walk through the doors He opens and be okay with the doors that stay closed(even if you can see through the window and have an opinion on the matter)...it's all about His timing and His purpose. That window you are looking through, even though you can fix it and do a better job, may not be in His plan. It's the difference in good things vs. God things. For me, He knows I not only need the door closed I need it locked from the inside.
Thank you for an amazing 2011! More to come in 2012! God's started something and I'm excited. Thank you for all letting me share my heart on paper. He knows where to go from here, and I'm praying for Him to open the doors because I can see through the windows now ;-) Until then I'll see you in blog land as often as He wants to write.
Be blessed in 2012 and walk into it full of victory and faith! The best is still to come!!
~Until next time
Melissa
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Monday, December 26, 2011
Just thinking..........
It's a combination of the listening to the waves rolling in and just flat out slowing down, but I'm in a thinking mood tonight.
Another Christmas has come and gone, and for those of you who celebrated your first without someone you love, my heart goes out to you. It's not easy even though some may say it is. New traditions will come in time, just be patient. These five days after Christmas before New Year's are a time to think...The year is winding to a close and a new one awaits. A new chance to do things over, to start again, and to take what we have learned and move forward. Please hear me now...DON"T take into 2012 what God told you to leave in 2011. Let that sink in for a few minutes, some of you will get that later ;-)
I'm excited and scared for 2012. Scared because of something silly(I have five months left of my 20's) and excited because of some new possibilities that await. There are so many things I thought would be different as I looked toward my 30's, but there are some things I can also say I'm proud of. No life hasn't gone as I would have planned(I'm still single, but......), but God has a bigger plan. I've done some things that some could only have dreamed and have seen some dreams come to pass. I still have a few things left on my before I turn 30 list that I think I can accomplish, so we'll see what happens ;-)
One thing for sure though is, I'm going into 2012 more determined and more confident of what He's called me to do and the gifts He has put inside of me. I've learned His voice is the only one that really matters, His should be the loudest, and with time...your heart will line up to His and when that happens...it is SWEET. (Don't be surprised if the world questions, but be patient, your heart, His heart will SHINE through)
I had someone say to me last week(someone who has known me for almost five years), that not many people really know what you can do. That shouldn't be......I've spent too long in the people pleasing mode, that I haven't really shown who is behind the mask, the who He created me to be...that is going to change.
So just some thinking moments for tonight ;-) More to come as 2012 gets closer and three more days at the beach, so....
Enjoy the rest of this holiday season! I am thankful for each and every one of you, God knows who you are ;-)
Until next time
~Melissa
Another Christmas has come and gone, and for those of you who celebrated your first without someone you love, my heart goes out to you. It's not easy even though some may say it is. New traditions will come in time, just be patient. These five days after Christmas before New Year's are a time to think...The year is winding to a close and a new one awaits. A new chance to do things over, to start again, and to take what we have learned and move forward. Please hear me now...DON"T take into 2012 what God told you to leave in 2011. Let that sink in for a few minutes, some of you will get that later ;-)
I'm excited and scared for 2012. Scared because of something silly(I have five months left of my 20's) and excited because of some new possibilities that await. There are so many things I thought would be different as I looked toward my 30's, but there are some things I can also say I'm proud of. No life hasn't gone as I would have planned(I'm still single, but......), but God has a bigger plan. I've done some things that some could only have dreamed and have seen some dreams come to pass. I still have a few things left on my before I turn 30 list that I think I can accomplish, so we'll see what happens ;-)
One thing for sure though is, I'm going into 2012 more determined and more confident of what He's called me to do and the gifts He has put inside of me. I've learned His voice is the only one that really matters, His should be the loudest, and with time...your heart will line up to His and when that happens...it is SWEET. (Don't be surprised if the world questions, but be patient, your heart, His heart will SHINE through)
I had someone say to me last week(someone who has known me for almost five years), that not many people really know what you can do. That shouldn't be......I've spent too long in the people pleasing mode, that I haven't really shown who is behind the mask, the who He created me to be...that is going to change.
So just some thinking moments for tonight ;-) More to come as 2012 gets closer and three more days at the beach, so....
Enjoy the rest of this holiday season! I am thankful for each and every one of you, God knows who you are ;-)
Until next time
~Melissa
Sunday, December 18, 2011
The Elevator or the Stairs
God started writing this blog last night after reading a friend's status on FB on playing the what if game.
How many times do you opt to take the stairs when you can take the elevator? Both lead up to the same spot, but one is a lot easier than the other. God is not mean, and He allows us choices in life. Sometimes those choices on our journey are to take the stairs or the elevator. It's a choice of something easy compared to something that will build muscle and endurance. It's a choice of something that may tire you out and leave you out of breath, but after time that way becomes easier. The elevator is comfortable and quick like so many choices in life seem to be. We want the easier route. We would rather get to our destination quick and with ease, then to build up the strength it takes to climb the stairs a second time. Doesn't His word say to run the race with endurance?
You may be wondering where I'm headed with this, but bear with me. How many times do we play the what if game with something that has gone on in our lives? We find ourselves on the stairs on our journey and we get tired(worn out so to speak), it gets harder to see the end in sight and to see the muscle and strength we are building. (But we are, everything that happens to us is for a reason and a purpose). Don't go over something God meant for you to walk through. Walking through it is tough, but He has your back. Is it always going be enjoyable, no I'm afraid not. My only hope is one day, He'll show you how the pieces fit together. I know I ask God for the puzzle box lid a lot(more than once some days), but I am kind of glad He keeps it hidden. If we knew all about how the pieces fit together would we ever take the puzzle out of the box?
It's been 13 years(see blog below if you want to know story), and I remember the what if game. I remember asking God why more than once, but looking back now I am thankful He let me see how the pieces fit together, how that day has shaped who I am(in a good way thankfully!). Can I let you in on a little secret? Even when you can see how the pieces fit together, when you can see how it has worked for your good, it still hurts on those "days"(I'm talking about birthdays and anniversary days etc.). I would be amiss if I lead you to believe that the pain goes away. God and I were having that conversation and He reminded me about my "Arthur" spots. (Those are the loving spots where I have now developed a little arthritis since the bus wreck). Those spots don't hurt all the time, only in certain seasons(cold weather etc.). The memories are always there, some days they make you smile, some days they hurt. The best part is GOD knows, but He also knows how strong you are.
For every what if or if only, God has a Because I love you. Just like a kid asking why, He doesn't say Because I said so, but Because I love you. I don't know where you are in your journey, you may have found yourself at a stop. You have a choice to take the elevator or the stairs, they both lead to the same point, but along the stairs develops patience, perseverance, and character. Character that can(unfortunately) only be developed by going through something. You can't gain muscle simply by driving past the gym, you have to go in it(and through) it in order to start the training process. So are you going to go up the elevator or start the climb up the stairs? The choice is yours.
Sweet child-
Because I love you I saw what you could not see. Because I love you I saw the choices that lay ahead and whispered which way to go in your ear. Because I love you the light turned green just when you needed it to. Because I love the light turned red when you needed it to as well. (Think about how many times you may avoid a traffic mishap because of a red light). Because I love you I carried you through that fire and brought you to the other side. Because I love you I climbed those stairs with you and smiled as you were able to run down them on your own. Because I love you I took care of all of those little things, just trust me. Because I love you I dried those tears and cried with you. Because I love you I knew that one day you would see how the tears made you into the person you are today. Because I love you, I gave you gifts that only you can open and use. Because I love you I'm always here. ~God
Have an amazing week and thank you for reading my blogs. I don't know who all does, but He does. Thank you for listening as I share my heart on paper. I hope to one day be able to share in person, but for now this is the avenue He has planned. Remember the reason for the season and who the greatest gift of all really is! Cherish each day and enjoy the journey wherever you are at!
Until next time
~Melissa
How many times do you opt to take the stairs when you can take the elevator? Both lead up to the same spot, but one is a lot easier than the other. God is not mean, and He allows us choices in life. Sometimes those choices on our journey are to take the stairs or the elevator. It's a choice of something easy compared to something that will build muscle and endurance. It's a choice of something that may tire you out and leave you out of breath, but after time that way becomes easier. The elevator is comfortable and quick like so many choices in life seem to be. We want the easier route. We would rather get to our destination quick and with ease, then to build up the strength it takes to climb the stairs a second time. Doesn't His word say to run the race with endurance?
You may be wondering where I'm headed with this, but bear with me. How many times do we play the what if game with something that has gone on in our lives? We find ourselves on the stairs on our journey and we get tired(worn out so to speak), it gets harder to see the end in sight and to see the muscle and strength we are building. (But we are, everything that happens to us is for a reason and a purpose). Don't go over something God meant for you to walk through. Walking through it is tough, but He has your back. Is it always going be enjoyable, no I'm afraid not. My only hope is one day, He'll show you how the pieces fit together. I know I ask God for the puzzle box lid a lot(more than once some days), but I am kind of glad He keeps it hidden. If we knew all about how the pieces fit together would we ever take the puzzle out of the box?
It's been 13 years(see blog below if you want to know story), and I remember the what if game. I remember asking God why more than once, but looking back now I am thankful He let me see how the pieces fit together, how that day has shaped who I am(in a good way thankfully!). Can I let you in on a little secret? Even when you can see how the pieces fit together, when you can see how it has worked for your good, it still hurts on those "days"(I'm talking about birthdays and anniversary days etc.). I would be amiss if I lead you to believe that the pain goes away. God and I were having that conversation and He reminded me about my "Arthur" spots. (Those are the loving spots where I have now developed a little arthritis since the bus wreck). Those spots don't hurt all the time, only in certain seasons(cold weather etc.). The memories are always there, some days they make you smile, some days they hurt. The best part is GOD knows, but He also knows how strong you are.
For every what if or if only, God has a Because I love you. Just like a kid asking why, He doesn't say Because I said so, but Because I love you. I don't know where you are in your journey, you may have found yourself at a stop. You have a choice to take the elevator or the stairs, they both lead to the same point, but along the stairs develops patience, perseverance, and character. Character that can(unfortunately) only be developed by going through something. You can't gain muscle simply by driving past the gym, you have to go in it(and through) it in order to start the training process. So are you going to go up the elevator or start the climb up the stairs? The choice is yours.
Sweet child-
Because I love you I saw what you could not see. Because I love you I saw the choices that lay ahead and whispered which way to go in your ear. Because I love you the light turned green just when you needed it to. Because I love the light turned red when you needed it to as well. (Think about how many times you may avoid a traffic mishap because of a red light). Because I love you I carried you through that fire and brought you to the other side. Because I love you I climbed those stairs with you and smiled as you were able to run down them on your own. Because I love you I took care of all of those little things, just trust me. Because I love you I dried those tears and cried with you. Because I love you I knew that one day you would see how the tears made you into the person you are today. Because I love you, I gave you gifts that only you can open and use. Because I love you I'm always here. ~God
Have an amazing week and thank you for reading my blogs. I don't know who all does, but He does. Thank you for listening as I share my heart on paper. I hope to one day be able to share in person, but for now this is the avenue He has planned. Remember the reason for the season and who the greatest gift of all really is! Cherish each day and enjoy the journey wherever you are at!
Until next time
~Melissa
Sunday, December 11, 2011
When God writes a friendship.......
I have hinted that this blog was coming, and decided to go ahead and post it now. It's longer than most, but it takes time to tell a story(and this was one of my first.)
I originally had titled this one Joy Through the tears in the files, but this year God gave it a new title. So the writing is from the files(and it's one of my first so be forgiving ;-)). This was written five years ago, it will be 13 years next week. If you read the earlier post about taking off the mask, this will explain why I have had some struggles this year. For anyone dealing with your first year anniversary, let the memories be what carries you through this season. God creates new traditions, new things, and you do find joy once again!! Yes there are moments that are hard, but I was reminded last night delivering Christmas presents to my wonderful Nashville family that despite the changes at work and the "feelings" that attached to those this year, God things are always the same. Everything that happens in our lives is for a reason, and some make us stronger than we could have ever imagined in time. When God writes a friendship, He does more than anyone could ever ask or imagine. At least I know He did for me ;-)
I originally had titled this one Joy Through the tears in the files, but this year God gave it a new title. So the writing is from the files(and it's one of my first so be forgiving ;-)). This was written five years ago, it will be 13 years next week. If you read the earlier post about taking off the mask, this will explain why I have had some struggles this year. For anyone dealing with your first year anniversary, let the memories be what carries you through this season. God creates new traditions, new things, and you do find joy once again!! Yes there are moments that are hard, but I was reminded last night delivering Christmas presents to my wonderful Nashville family that despite the changes at work and the "feelings" that attached to those this year, God things are always the same. Everything that happens in our lives is for a reason, and some make us stronger than we could have ever imagined in time. When God writes a friendship, He does more than anyone could ever ask or imagine. At least I know He did for me ;-)
So now from the files:
Joy through the Tears
I still remember that day like it was yesterday. My parents were down in Birmingham Madison Academy
Looking back now I never realized how a simple sound would change my life forever.
I opened the door to see some adults from church. In my heart at that point I knew something was wrong.
Bless her heart, I don’t know how she did it, but she managed to get the words at that Pamela had passed away that morning. I’m not sure exactly what happened after that. All I remember was I was crying and I felt sick at my stomach. I knew I had to call my Madison Academy
At this stage in my life my school was like my second family more than even my church family. That’s an advantage to going to a Christian school. I called three of them because in my mind if I could get the words out and tell someone else than maybe I would start to believe it myself. It helped but still didn’t make the pain any easier. I knew though that I was going to have to be strong for my parents when they got home. My biggest regret and sinking feeling though was that I wasn’t down there too.
The house quickly became full of people coming and going. The more I had time to let things sink in the more I couldn’t believe this was happening. I just wanted to go to school and for life to get back to normal.
That afternoon I went for a walk around the block. I just needed some time to think by myself. Up until that point life had been easy. I lived in a bubble up until that day, but on December 20, 1998 , I knew more than just my physical reality would change. On the walk around the block, I laid it on the line to God. It was just Him and me out there. I knew I was a Christian, but at that point in my life I never really had to live it out. On that Sunday my relationship with God got kicked up a notch. I laid it on the line and basically said God I can’t do this without you. I knew there was no way that I could get through this but to be in His arms. He was going to have to carry me some.
During that walk this sweet sense of peace and joy came over me. When I told God I needed Him to carry me I instantly felt like He was. A song that we sang in chapel at school started going through my head: “The Joy of the Lord is my strength, I will not waiver walking by faith; He will be strong to deliver me safe, The Joy of the Lord is my strength.”
I wasn’t sure how this song came to play in my head, but I knew I wasn’t in control any more. Only God could help me to have joy through all of the tears I was crying.
All things do work together for our good, they just don't always happen in our timing. God doesn't forget about you. He is always aware of what you go through and how your heart hurts.
Eight years ago this December, my little sister passed away. She had been sick since birth, but this was very unexpected. She was my only sibling and up until that time I had never lost anyone close. I didn't know what to do. I was in shock really. I remember walking around the neighborhood that afternoon and found myself singing a song from school. "The joy of the Lord is my strength, I will not waiver walking by faith, He will be strong to deliver my safe, The Joy of the Lord is my strength." I know I wasn't very joyful feeling at that time. Then Romans came to mind. It was hard for my mind to comprehend how God was going to use this for my good, but I trusted Him.
A year and a half later I graduated high school. My parents were strongly encouraged at that time to go on a vacation. They hadn't been anywhere since my sister passed and they were both still having a hard time. They knew they didn't want to be home when I was gone (I already had a senior trip planned at this time), so they decided to find something for that time frame. They knew they wanted to go to a gospel sing, so they started looking through the Singing News. They narrowed it down to two homecomings. The deciding factor was how many artists were appearing that they recognized from the Gaither videos. The homecoming they chose was a group I had NEVER heard of before in my life. They were going to a town in Kentucky Disneyworld .
They brought me home two CD's from the main group at Homecoming. I was still not sure about this group. The two CD's were Pray and Live from Kentucky Hanceville , Alabama
From that point on I continued to go to concerts and support them. I also continued to lift them up in prayer daily. God is so awesome. Since that Homecoming four years ago, I am blessed to say that I now call The Crabb Family my friends. These people are so dear to me and so special. I am not sure if they will ever know how much they mean to me. They are always an email or a phone call away if I ever need anything. I feel truly blessed that God allowed our paths to cross. God really does work everything out for our good. We may not always be able to see how things are going to turn out, but if we are just patient and wait, its always something amazing. Over the last few weeks God placed something in my heart. When my sister passed away it left a huge void in my life. It was something I could have tried to fill with other things of this world, but those wouldn't have filled the void. I knew I had to let God fill it for any healing to take place. Losing someone you love is never easy. Sisters are precious. God knew that void would have to be filled by something just as precious. Thank you Abba Father for placing The Crabb Family in my life. I may not have my earthly sister here with me anymore, but God sent me more Christian brothers and sisters than I could ever imagine.
I have often found myself sometimes wondering what if my parents had chosen to go to that other Homecoming. It's at that point I have to stop and thank God for working out His plan even when I didn't know what He was doing. It's at the times in our life when we find ourselves going, how is this going to work out, where is your hand, that if we'll just sit back and be patient, the picture will turn out better than we could have ever asked for or imagined. (Ephesians 3:20)
Monday, December 5, 2011
Taking off the mask for a minute or two
Why is He writing this post so late tonight, I'll never know, but I haven't felt this strong of a type now in awhile. So here goes:
I love this season. I love what it stands for, I love what it brings out in people, and I love giving gifts and seeing the smiles on the receiver's face. That being said, this year the season has been different for me. I knew when we came back from Thanksgiving that things were going to be different, and I tried to "prepare" myself the best I could. I gave myself the pep talk and encouragement speech. I cried many tears to God over what I am sure seemed like little things and then I went on and tackled what came my way. Can I tell you it has NOT been easy? Am I where I am supposed to be for this season of my life? Pretty sure that's a yes(otherwise God would have moved me(He's good about opening and closing doors), but I wasn't prepared for this month. I came back after Thanksgiving determined to smile my way through it, but there has been many tears on the drive home. God's been faithful each step of the way. He always has a song or a verse something to keep me pushing forward. The right song and/or verse can keep you moving forward when all you want to do is to run back to comfortable. I miss the hustle and bustle in the classroom that I had last year, the doing Christmas crafts and going to Santa's village, the playing Chipmunks Christmas and singing along with the kids, the taking a class picture with Santa, the kids bringing in ornaments and hanging them on the tree. This year has been different, my December has been filled with paperwork instead of decorations and Christmas themed activities. I'm not sure I was ready for that mountain just yet, but here we are. That mountain stands before me each day, and I have a choice to make, do I slide back down when it gets tough, or do I let Him give me a push to the next rock? Thankfully, I've let Him push me so far, but believe you me it has not been easy. I haven't slid back down, but I've looked down and wondered how much easier it would be to slide back to comfortable and just have a pity party until we left for the beach. I am thankful that He has allowed us to spend the last three Christmases at the beach. New traditions make the time bittersweet, but enjoyable again. God's good and always will be.
My heart goes out to those who are looking ahead to their "first" Christmas without a loved one. I wish I could tell you the time gets easier, but there are still moments that make it seem like yesterday. It's been 13 years and this month is never "easy", but He's been good to carry when I get tired. So I press on with more paperwork and even though the days are not as I would have planned(or would like), I'm determined to be happy and to do what I can each day with where I'm at. The mountain only seems tall when you look at it through fearful eyes. Determination takes one look and says, let's get climbing. I know the next few weeks are still going to be tough, one day at a time, but determination and peace can go along way when the enemy shows up with other things. The enemy can only defeat you, if you forget Who's holding you. If you are in your first season, please know that you are in my prayers. With time, new traditions emerge and a new normal, and sweet memories will make you smile all season. Cherish each day!
Thanks for letting me take the mask off for a minute or two ;-) I don't know why He wanted this typed so late, but He has a plan I'm sure. The song below is from my Nashville family and it has been running through my head all month...It's one of those songs that keeps you moving forward
~Until next time ~
I love this season. I love what it stands for, I love what it brings out in people, and I love giving gifts and seeing the smiles on the receiver's face. That being said, this year the season has been different for me. I knew when we came back from Thanksgiving that things were going to be different, and I tried to "prepare" myself the best I could. I gave myself the pep talk and encouragement speech. I cried many tears to God over what I am sure seemed like little things and then I went on and tackled what came my way. Can I tell you it has NOT been easy? Am I where I am supposed to be for this season of my life? Pretty sure that's a yes(otherwise God would have moved me(He's good about opening and closing doors), but I wasn't prepared for this month. I came back after Thanksgiving determined to smile my way through it, but there has been many tears on the drive home. God's been faithful each step of the way. He always has a song or a verse something to keep me pushing forward. The right song and/or verse can keep you moving forward when all you want to do is to run back to comfortable. I miss the hustle and bustle in the classroom that I had last year, the doing Christmas crafts and going to Santa's village, the playing Chipmunks Christmas and singing along with the kids, the taking a class picture with Santa, the kids bringing in ornaments and hanging them on the tree. This year has been different, my December has been filled with paperwork instead of decorations and Christmas themed activities. I'm not sure I was ready for that mountain just yet, but here we are. That mountain stands before me each day, and I have a choice to make, do I slide back down when it gets tough, or do I let Him give me a push to the next rock? Thankfully, I've let Him push me so far, but believe you me it has not been easy. I haven't slid back down, but I've looked down and wondered how much easier it would be to slide back to comfortable and just have a pity party until we left for the beach. I am thankful that He has allowed us to spend the last three Christmases at the beach. New traditions make the time bittersweet, but enjoyable again. God's good and always will be.
My heart goes out to those who are looking ahead to their "first" Christmas without a loved one. I wish I could tell you the time gets easier, but there are still moments that make it seem like yesterday. It's been 13 years and this month is never "easy", but He's been good to carry when I get tired. So I press on with more paperwork and even though the days are not as I would have planned(or would like), I'm determined to be happy and to do what I can each day with where I'm at. The mountain only seems tall when you look at it through fearful eyes. Determination takes one look and says, let's get climbing. I know the next few weeks are still going to be tough, one day at a time, but determination and peace can go along way when the enemy shows up with other things. The enemy can only defeat you, if you forget Who's holding you. If you are in your first season, please know that you are in my prayers. With time, new traditions emerge and a new normal, and sweet memories will make you smile all season. Cherish each day!
Thanks for letting me take the mask off for a minute or two ;-) I don't know why He wanted this typed so late, but He has a plan I'm sure. The song below is from my Nashville family and it has been running through my head all month...It's one of those songs that keeps you moving forward
~Until next time ~
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Short and sweet(with a few videos included)
How I wish sweet reader that I could pull back some layers and show you what's on the inside, but it's not time for all of that just yet. If you are a Facebook friend, you know He's been writing some more. He and I are on a new part of the journey, and I must say so far so good. It's not been an easy path, but I can tell I'm getting stronger each day. There are a few songs(and a movie clip) that have been in my head this week, and I thought I'd share those below. Christmas break is in three weeks and look for more "deeper" blogs once I get away. I'll continue to do some of these short and sweet moments :-) Enjoy the season! Love those around you and find that person who always has a smile and says I'm okay, and make sure they are okay. There are a lot of people dealing with stuff this Christmas season, a lot having their "first" Christmas without loved ones, and a lot just taking it a day by day. Don't judge someone by the cover you see, there is always more to the story. Be thankful for those friends who have read the entire book and are still a part of the story. Know what God has called you to do, what gifts He has given you, and then when He says it's time unwrap and enjoy! (Even if someone else thinks it needs to be returned;-))
Until next time!
When life gets you down...just keep swimming or as I've said a lot this week..Just keep smiling, just keep smiling.. Eventually either it won't matter anymore or the situation will fix itself (9 times out of 10 it won't matter to you anymore). (Yes it is possible for something to hurt and for you to be able to forget it and move on.....You can choose to do what He said regardless of feelings...it is NOT easy, but with time...)
This has to be one of my all time favorite Christmas songs........Listen to the words....
This is quickly becoming a new favorite Christmas song.......Listen to the words ;-)
Those are all for now, I could post more, but will save a few. Music is a powerful thing. Make the most of each day!
Until next time!
When life gets you down...just keep swimming or as I've said a lot this week..Just keep smiling, just keep smiling.. Eventually either it won't matter anymore or the situation will fix itself (9 times out of 10 it won't matter to you anymore). (Yes it is possible for something to hurt and for you to be able to forget it and move on.....You can choose to do what He said regardless of feelings...it is NOT easy, but with time...)
This has to be one of my all time favorite Christmas songs........Listen to the words....
This is quickly becoming a new favorite Christmas song.......Listen to the words ;-)
Those are all for now, I could post more, but will save a few. Music is a powerful thing. Make the most of each day!
One foot in the front of the other
** I wrote this Monday but never posted it...oops
Short and sweet and straight to the point today.......
Some days it is one foot in front of the other. It takes time to build up the resistance muscles. As the say, Rome wasn't built in a day and neither is a habit. Some days it's not about what you say, but about what you don't say. Even the one who "always" has it together, may need a little glue every now and then to keep it stuck together. Put the boundaries up and decide what will and will not effect you. You might not be able to change other people and what they do, but you can change you. Sometimes one foot in front of the other will get you to where you are going, you don't always have to run. He made you as you, period. Each moment has something that makes you a better you.
Until next time.....
Short and sweet and straight to the point today.......
Some days it is one foot in front of the other. It takes time to build up the resistance muscles. As the say, Rome wasn't built in a day and neither is a habit. Some days it's not about what you say, but about what you don't say. Even the one who "always" has it together, may need a little glue every now and then to keep it stuck together. Put the boundaries up and decide what will and will not effect you. You might not be able to change other people and what they do, but you can change you. Sometimes one foot in front of the other will get you to where you are going, you don't always have to run. He made you as you, period. Each moment has something that makes you a better you.
Until next time.....
Sunday, November 27, 2011
God's the catcher
Let me just start off by saying, I'm starting to see a pattern. My blogs on Sundays are usually words I need to re-read throughout the week. In other words God goes, Here's a word now walk it out tomorrow. (Let me just say ouch...because I like time, but anyway). God will move you out of your comfort zone to His zone, even if it is just one step at a time.
So last night I pulled out my work stuff and started trying to get things ready for Monday. Just looking at the stacks and the amount that needed to be organized made me start to feel defeated. (That's a blog in itself....we need to take control over the things we can control and stop letting the enemy use them to push us down). I spread everything out, I laid it into piles(mounds of post it notes and all) and started trying to get it all organized. It wasn't before too long that I gave up(hence the reason why it's not done yet. How many times do we give up on a task that seems overwhelming and guess what it never goes away? How many times could we have the power to handle something greater if we would take control over the little things?) So I stopped for the night and God and I had a long talk. Why He chose a baseball visual I'll never know(I'm more of a football or basketball person).
Stay with me on this one ;-) He told me to throw it at Him. Funny thing is I didn't even have to ask what "it" was. I knew and I had more than one "it" to throw at Him. So I started throwing and He didn't miss a beat. There weren't any stray balls laying around for Him to pick up in the end or "deal with later". As I threw it at Him, He caught it and put it in a bucket. When I was done, He smiled and took the bucket with Him. I sat there and was like but.......... and He kept walking. See He can take whatever we throw at Him. Those "it's" we don't really know how to handle, those "it's" that are making us crazy, those "it's" that were never really ours to pick up. He knows me well enough to know He needed to take the bucket of "it's" with Him because otherwise I'd try to take them again. Throw whatever you need at Him and once He catches it, He's got it. He has reminded me of that more than once this morning. He catches it, puts it where it belongs, and then He walks off smiling and forgets about it. Why shouldn't we?
That was part 1 of my talk with Him last night, part 2 came from
Romans 12:21
21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
(**Caution...this is the part that made me go, but why(yes said in a whine no doubt), because this is the part I knew I'd have to walk out this week. ( I don't usually get these without the test to follow))
I've read this verse before but I always saw evil as evil(hatred, being mean etc.). Last night my eyes I read it differently. It's all about how you respond. When you are met with rudeness, unthougthfulness, and down right mean, how are you going to respond? Are you going to seek revenge and make your case or are you going to pay back evil with good? In other words when someone does something wrong to you(be it in action, word, or lack of word), how are you going to respond? Are you going to get angry and get mad or are you going to be good and not let feelings win? God didn't say we had to be a door mat or take whatever anyone throws at you. He did say we don't have to throw it back at them though. Sometimes we need to confront the situation(and believe me God will open the door and your mouth when that's time), but sometimes we may need to just smile and walk away(even if we are counting to 10 under our breath). It's all about how you respond. When presented with that situation, God will give you the grace you need to handle it His way. Rest in this fact though, when you mess up, you always get a chance to correct it ;-)
I love this time of the year, but that being said there is a lot to deal with inside and out. That old saying is true, I'm not where I need to be, but praise God I'm not where I used to be. I'm a lot closer to Him than two years ago, and definitely a lot closer than I was thirteen years ago. December is a month, but I'll explain in blogs to come. Be patient with each other this season. Emotions are high, people have stress going on that we can't always see. We need to show others an extra amount of grace, chances are we may need it ourselves. One thing He told me last season and I'll end with this..."Life is about slowing down and remembering what really matters. It's not always found on a to-do list." Trust Him with your list and then breath.....it always gets done some how some way.
Until next time ~
Melissa
So last night I pulled out my work stuff and started trying to get things ready for Monday. Just looking at the stacks and the amount that needed to be organized made me start to feel defeated. (That's a blog in itself....we need to take control over the things we can control and stop letting the enemy use them to push us down). I spread everything out, I laid it into piles(mounds of post it notes and all) and started trying to get it all organized. It wasn't before too long that I gave up(hence the reason why it's not done yet. How many times do we give up on a task that seems overwhelming and guess what it never goes away? How many times could we have the power to handle something greater if we would take control over the little things?) So I stopped for the night and God and I had a long talk. Why He chose a baseball visual I'll never know(I'm more of a football or basketball person).
Stay with me on this one ;-) He told me to throw it at Him. Funny thing is I didn't even have to ask what "it" was. I knew and I had more than one "it" to throw at Him. So I started throwing and He didn't miss a beat. There weren't any stray balls laying around for Him to pick up in the end or "deal with later". As I threw it at Him, He caught it and put it in a bucket. When I was done, He smiled and took the bucket with Him. I sat there and was like but.......... and He kept walking. See He can take whatever we throw at Him. Those "it's" we don't really know how to handle, those "it's" that are making us crazy, those "it's" that were never really ours to pick up. He knows me well enough to know He needed to take the bucket of "it's" with Him because otherwise I'd try to take them again. Throw whatever you need at Him and once He catches it, He's got it. He has reminded me of that more than once this morning. He catches it, puts it where it belongs, and then He walks off smiling and forgets about it. Why shouldn't we?
That was part 1 of my talk with Him last night, part 2 came from
Romans 12:21
21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
(**Caution...this is the part that made me go, but why(yes said in a whine no doubt), because this is the part I knew I'd have to walk out this week. ( I don't usually get these without the test to follow))
I've read this verse before but I always saw evil as evil(hatred, being mean etc.). Last night my eyes I read it differently. It's all about how you respond. When you are met with rudeness, unthougthfulness, and down right mean, how are you going to respond? Are you going to seek revenge and make your case or are you going to pay back evil with good? In other words when someone does something wrong to you(be it in action, word, or lack of word), how are you going to respond? Are you going to get angry and get mad or are you going to be good and not let feelings win? God didn't say we had to be a door mat or take whatever anyone throws at you. He did say we don't have to throw it back at them though. Sometimes we need to confront the situation(and believe me God will open the door and your mouth when that's time), but sometimes we may need to just smile and walk away(even if we are counting to 10 under our breath). It's all about how you respond. When presented with that situation, God will give you the grace you need to handle it His way. Rest in this fact though, when you mess up, you always get a chance to correct it ;-)
I love this time of the year, but that being said there is a lot to deal with inside and out. That old saying is true, I'm not where I need to be, but praise God I'm not where I used to be. I'm a lot closer to Him than two years ago, and definitely a lot closer than I was thirteen years ago. December is a month, but I'll explain in blogs to come. Be patient with each other this season. Emotions are high, people have stress going on that we can't always see. We need to show others an extra amount of grace, chances are we may need it ourselves. One thing He told me last season and I'll end with this..."Life is about slowing down and remembering what really matters. It's not always found on a to-do list." Trust Him with your list and then breath.....it always gets done some how some way.
Until next time ~
Melissa
Sunday, November 20, 2011
It's blog or bust time......
Random thoughts:
As you can see there are multiple thoughts/blogs running through my head. Some I will elaborate more on later, others are just random thoughts for the night. Please don't over analyze the thoughts and read more into then what's there. God and I are good. I know I make Him smile most days, some I am sure make Him laugh. I wouldn't trade this unique relationship for anything. I love the fact that He loves me and even likes me. (Think about that for a minute....) I love that He knows me the best and loves me the most. He listens to my vents and my frustrations. He fixes what He can and then helps me deal with the rest. He's slowly helping me to not be so concerned about what other people think or do to me, because it really in the end doesn't matter. Not all of this blog may be for you, but chances are there is at least one of the random thoughts that made you go yep or amen. Smile and let Him take it and run with it in your heart. You'll be surprised what He may write.
I'm not perfect, but I've learned lately who I am in Him and I'm okay with me. Enjoy this Thanksgiving week and be thankful for the YOU He created you to be!
~Until Next time ~
- Some people are in your life to lessen the load, others are in your life to be a lesson. Know the difference and save yourself some frustration.
- Why do we keep asking God to move the mountain or part the sea, but we aren't willing to take the first step? If you stay put(be it in a pity party or whatever), who wins? Take a step forward whether you feel like it or not and see what happens.
- Don't expect others to do for you what you can do for yourself. In other words...don't have a what about me moment and a why me, if you aren't taking some me time yourself.
- No one is going to understand you all the time, no one that is but God. Know who you are in Him, crawl up in lap at the end of the day and rest.
- We are all flesh and that means we all have feelings, it's okay to have one of those days, to have things that make you upset, things you can't fix but wish you could...It's okay!! It's what you do with those feelings afterwards that make a difference. Do you continue to think about what's making you upset? Do you try to fix the things you know aren't yours to fix? Do you get down on yourself when you have one of those days? You know yourself, you know your heart. God's the only other one that does. Trust Him to let it shine through and trust Him to help all of that "mess" make sense. Don't let the "stuff" get you down, and don't let others help keep you there.
- Know who is meant to speak in your life and who is not........Not everyone who is in your life is there to change you, maybe you are to there to change them?
- Do your part and be happy with that. It's all about the seeds you are sowing. If you are doing what God's laid out for you(His plan)...the harvest you will reap will be bigger than you could imagine. (Blog to come about the sower...good stuff).
- Things happen.......sometimes the only thing you can change or control is how you react.
- When God parts the Red Sea for you, moves that mountain out of the way, or does something BIG...remember it as you keep walking on this journey we call life. Too many times God moves in a huge way and we head out into the wilderness called life only to forget it and start complaining. He hasn't changed...so why are you?
- Keep your peace even when you know you are right. Better to keep your mouth shut and let the truth come out in time, then to open it and be full of hot air. Keeping the peace makes Him smile, trying to avenge yourself does not. That's His job ;-)
- Each day on the journey is sweet and memorable. Some make us smile as we go along, some make us smile when they are over. All make us a better us if we will let Him.
- Know who you are inside and out. Then listen to the truth and let the other stuff go in one ear and out the other. Let Him decide what takes root.........
As you can see there are multiple thoughts/blogs running through my head. Some I will elaborate more on later, others are just random thoughts for the night. Please don't over analyze the thoughts and read more into then what's there. God and I are good. I know I make Him smile most days, some I am sure make Him laugh. I wouldn't trade this unique relationship for anything. I love the fact that He loves me and even likes me. (Think about that for a minute....) I love that He knows me the best and loves me the most. He listens to my vents and my frustrations. He fixes what He can and then helps me deal with the rest. He's slowly helping me to not be so concerned about what other people think or do to me, because it really in the end doesn't matter. Not all of this blog may be for you, but chances are there is at least one of the random thoughts that made you go yep or amen. Smile and let Him take it and run with it in your heart. You'll be surprised what He may write.
I'm not perfect, but I've learned lately who I am in Him and I'm okay with me. Enjoy this Thanksgiving week and be thankful for the YOU He created you to be!
~Until Next time ~
Monday, November 7, 2011
The Little things aren't always Little to Him
That email that made you laugh till you cried, that child who did just what you asked them to, that song that made you smile, that you tube video that reminded you what He had brought you through, and that person who stopped to say you are important. Throughout the "busy" of our day we sometimes over look these little things, but when you stop to look back over the day...were they really little? See sometimes God doesn't always answer our prayers in the big ways we pray. So you asked God to help you keep your peace and He sent you an email that made you laugh till you cried? Made you forget anything that was bothering you now didn't it? So you asked Him to lighten the load and that child did exactly what you asked them to do, you asked Him for a smile and listen what's that....a song that makes you smile from ear to ear. You asked Him to show you where to you are supposed to be...and someone said Only you can do what you do(in other words you do make a difference!).
We are too often focused on the big things. We want to see God answer our prayers in the BIG way. We want the mountain moved out of the way, instead of taking a drink and continuing to climb. Have you ever stopped to think what we would miss if He moved out of the way some of those mountains we were supposed to climb? Climb the mountain now and the next one will seem easier.
Don't go through the day so busy and so preoccupied that you miss those little smiles He's sending your way. Some call them kisses from Heaven, but to me they are smiles. It's the little things sometimes along the way that are His way of reminding you, Yes He cares and Yes He's listening ;-)
We are too often focused on the big things. We want to see God answer our prayers in the BIG way. We want the mountain moved out of the way, instead of taking a drink and continuing to climb. Have you ever stopped to think what we would miss if He moved out of the way some of those mountains we were supposed to climb? Climb the mountain now and the next one will seem easier.
Don't go through the day so busy and so preoccupied that you miss those little smiles He's sending your way. Some call them kisses from Heaven, but to me they are smiles. It's the little things sometimes along the way that are His way of reminding you, Yes He cares and Yes He's listening ;-)
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Diamonds are made from days like............
I have always heard Wednesday called Hump day, but never knew why exactly until last week. Were Monday and Tuesday a piece of cake....why no but I did good holding my peace and not letting it get to me. Wednesday started off around 7:30ish with a snowball effect. It was one thing after another all day until by the end of the day I felt about two inches tall and felt like I was carrying more than I could. (Key word in that was felt....) Some days are just like that, some days the enemy will throw everything at you at once, and will use other well meaning people to make you question yourself.(because if he can get you to doubt yourself...he's accomplished a lot). Confidence in yourself(not the self righteous confidence), but the confidence that knows Who is inside of you, what He has promised you, and Who is in charge is a powerful tool.
Stay with me on this one......Your Hump day may not be on Wednesday necessarily, but look back over the last couple of weeks. Do you have a day that stands out as one where you had a decision to make? One where you were standing on top of the hill and you could either start over(and fall backward) or keep moving forward and come down? If I had not crawled up into His lap last Wednesday, recognized that I was feeling way too much, put on some praise music, and listened to Him, the rest of the week would have been different. Some days do not always go that way, some days I let feelings get the best of me and continue on in my pity party for a few more days frustrated and stressed. What I did Wednesday determined how I handled Thursday and Friday. (By the way last week was Truth 4 and Feelings 1 ;-))). Diamonds are made from those pressure days, those days when it all comes at you at once. Imagine you are practicing your tennis swing and the machine goes crazy. The balls start flying at you faster than you can hit them. What do you do? You hit the ones you can, pick the others up when it's empty, load them back and start again. That's how some days go...BUT as Christians we have help picking up the balls(the mess of the day) if we'll let Him ;-)
Looking back over last week, Wednesday was priceless. Feeling wise it was HORRIBLE, but God used it to teach me more than one lasting lesson. Trust Him with your heart, He made it........and He knows when you need a pick me up and He's always on time(and may even surprise you with what He uses!).
Diamonds are made through pressure. That day that you feel has done you in, the one that has left you in tears, may be what He needs to finish the diamond making process. After all, what Princess doesn't need a few diamonds ;-) (not sounding prideful...but God is my Heavenly Daddy and He's a King, so that makes me a Princess!!).
Stay with me on this one......Your Hump day may not be on Wednesday necessarily, but look back over the last couple of weeks. Do you have a day that stands out as one where you had a decision to make? One where you were standing on top of the hill and you could either start over(and fall backward) or keep moving forward and come down? If I had not crawled up into His lap last Wednesday, recognized that I was feeling way too much, put on some praise music, and listened to Him, the rest of the week would have been different. Some days do not always go that way, some days I let feelings get the best of me and continue on in my pity party for a few more days frustrated and stressed. What I did Wednesday determined how I handled Thursday and Friday. (By the way last week was Truth 4 and Feelings 1 ;-))). Diamonds are made from those pressure days, those days when it all comes at you at once. Imagine you are practicing your tennis swing and the machine goes crazy. The balls start flying at you faster than you can hit them. What do you do? You hit the ones you can, pick the others up when it's empty, load them back and start again. That's how some days go...BUT as Christians we have help picking up the balls(the mess of the day) if we'll let Him ;-)
Looking back over last week, Wednesday was priceless. Feeling wise it was HORRIBLE, but God used it to teach me more than one lasting lesson. Trust Him with your heart, He made it........and He knows when you need a pick me up and He's always on time(and may even surprise you with what He uses!).
Diamonds are made through pressure. That day that you feel has done you in, the one that has left you in tears, may be what He needs to finish the diamond making process. After all, what Princess doesn't need a few diamonds ;-) (not sounding prideful...but God is my Heavenly Daddy and He's a King, so that makes me a Princess!!).
The stickers only stick if you let them
Here's a short summary of You are Special by Max Lucado..(Hopefully that will help this make sense).
You are Special is about a little wooden puppet named Punchinello who is a Wemmick. The other wemmicks give him dots because Punchinello doesn't do anything "special". He doesn't have any of the talents that the other Wemmicks have, or at least not that he can see. If he did have a special talent, he'd be given a star. Then he meets a Wemmick who doesn't have any stars or dots. She tells him about going to see the Woodcarver named Eli. So Punchinello heads up that way and meets Eli. Eli reminds Punchinello that He made him and He thinks He is special. As Punchinello listens, a sticker fell off. Eli reminds Punchinello(who is sitting in His lap at this point), that the stickers only stick if you let them. The more you trust His love, the less the stickers stick. He told Eli to come see Him everyday and to let Eli remind Punchinello just how special he was(Eli knew after all because He made him).
I used this story for years with teaching teenagers and doing various camps etc. Why am I bringing this up now? Because God whispered this week....The stickers only stick if you let them. So many times we let what others say to us or about us stick and we shouldn't(I know it's hard........). He is the only one whose opinion matters. So many times though we get busy and the dots start to stick. Then when we slow down we crawl up in His lap and start listening to what He has to tell us. Just like taking off a band-aid that has been on for awhile, the stickers coming off may sting at first, but over time His grace will be all that you feel. So if you have had a day when the world has just beat you up, when you feel like you going in one direction and everyone else is pulling you in another, crawl up in His lap and let Him remind you just how special you are. The stickers will start to fall off and over time, His words will be all that you remember.
The stickers only stick if you let them. Some days keeping the stickers from sticking is not going to be easy. Those are the days that as soon as you get a chance run to His lap and let Him remind you of how special you are and how much He loves you. After all He made you and He knows you the best and loves you the most!!
You are Special is about a little wooden puppet named Punchinello who is a Wemmick. The other wemmicks give him dots because Punchinello doesn't do anything "special". He doesn't have any of the talents that the other Wemmicks have, or at least not that he can see. If he did have a special talent, he'd be given a star. Then he meets a Wemmick who doesn't have any stars or dots. She tells him about going to see the Woodcarver named Eli. So Punchinello heads up that way and meets Eli. Eli reminds Punchinello that He made him and He thinks He is special. As Punchinello listens, a sticker fell off. Eli reminds Punchinello(who is sitting in His lap at this point), that the stickers only stick if you let them. The more you trust His love, the less the stickers stick. He told Eli to come see Him everyday and to let Eli remind Punchinello just how special he was(Eli knew after all because He made him).
I used this story for years with teaching teenagers and doing various camps etc. Why am I bringing this up now? Because God whispered this week....The stickers only stick if you let them. So many times we let what others say to us or about us stick and we shouldn't(I know it's hard........). He is the only one whose opinion matters. So many times though we get busy and the dots start to stick. Then when we slow down we crawl up in His lap and start listening to what He has to tell us. Just like taking off a band-aid that has been on for awhile, the stickers coming off may sting at first, but over time His grace will be all that you feel. So if you have had a day when the world has just beat you up, when you feel like you going in one direction and everyone else is pulling you in another, crawl up in His lap and let Him remind you just how special you are. The stickers will start to fall off and over time, His words will be all that you remember.
The stickers only stick if you let them. Some days keeping the stickers from sticking is not going to be easy. Those are the days that as soon as you get a chance run to His lap and let Him remind you of how special you are and how much He loves you. After all He made you and He knows you the best and loves you the most!!
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Free to be Me
There is only one You and only one person who can do what you do. God threw away the mold when He created you and He doesn't make mistakes. There is a reason why you feel the way you do, think the way you think, and act the way you do. God took time putting all of those details into place to make an incredible YOU. That being said, the world today is instant...not only do we have drive thru's and microwaves, but now we do not have to even go to the store to read the newest book or buy the latest CD. It's all a touch a way, an instant download. We are so used to everything coming so quickly that when it's slower, we get frustrated and that often times leads to stress. God doesn't operate on the time table of man, because He can accomplish more in a minute than we can in a day. We pour more into our day than He ever planned for us to. We let other people set the expectations we should have for ourselves. We've turned into people pleasers instead of God pleasers and we wonder why we are stressed and frustrated. Let me let you in on a little secret, God simply asked you to do the best you could do. Only you and He know what that is, so don't let what other expect from you cause you to doubt yourself or feel discouraged.(Remember there is now therefore no condemnation........) God's not one to lay guilt and condemn you, if He wants to get your attention He will. When He wants you to change, He has a way of showing you how to fix it. Let yourself off the hook of feeling you have to be perfect at everything(He's the only one that has that down), put yourself on your to do list(after all you are on His), do what you can, and trust Him for favor for the rest.
So you may be reading the title going okay where does that come in?? So many times we let other people's expectations(said or unsaid) dictate what we do, how we feel about ourselves etc. God called us to be ourselves. You may be in a situation where you can't be yourself for whatever reason. Sweet friend, He knows your heart!! He will give you time to let the turtle out of the shell and to be yourself around people who love you for you!! I've just came off of Fall Break which I spent with my second family. These people love me for me and regardless of how long since I see them, it's like it was yesterday. Everyone needs a safe place. A place where you know you are loved, where you can be yourself, and where you can just have fun. Life is too short to not have fun every now and then. (It's all about balance(worship, work, play etc.)). The turtle came out for a week and it was just what I needed!! Who knows maybe the turtle will stay out for a while?
I don't know what you are dealing with/going through, but I know this....God didn't bring you to where you are to leave you. Things may not always be easy, but God has a plan in the end. What the devil meant for evil, God will bring about good. Fear is not of God and if you'll let Him, He'll give you above what you could ever ask or imagine. He didn't promise every day would be easy, but He said He knew how to handle the stress. He didn't say He'd always move right away, but He can do more in a minute than we can in a day. He didn't say you'd have to carry what the world throws at you by yourself, He promised to walk with you and carry it...if you'll let Him. So many times we seek His hand instead of seeking His heart. God's not trying to keep His plan a secret, but sometimes we stay too busy to listen.
I'll leave with a song......Be yourself, not the you others expect you to be, but the You He created you to be! God has things that only YOU can do and He's waiting to show them to you!
In His lap until next time......
So you may be reading the title going okay where does that come in?? So many times we let other people's expectations(said or unsaid) dictate what we do, how we feel about ourselves etc. God called us to be ourselves. You may be in a situation where you can't be yourself for whatever reason. Sweet friend, He knows your heart!! He will give you time to let the turtle out of the shell and to be yourself around people who love you for you!! I've just came off of Fall Break which I spent with my second family. These people love me for me and regardless of how long since I see them, it's like it was yesterday. Everyone needs a safe place. A place where you know you are loved, where you can be yourself, and where you can just have fun. Life is too short to not have fun every now and then. (It's all about balance(worship, work, play etc.)). The turtle came out for a week and it was just what I needed!! Who knows maybe the turtle will stay out for a while?
I don't know what you are dealing with/going through, but I know this....God didn't bring you to where you are to leave you. Things may not always be easy, but God has a plan in the end. What the devil meant for evil, God will bring about good. Fear is not of God and if you'll let Him, He'll give you above what you could ever ask or imagine. He didn't promise every day would be easy, but He said He knew how to handle the stress. He didn't say He'd always move right away, but He can do more in a minute than we can in a day. He didn't say you'd have to carry what the world throws at you by yourself, He promised to walk with you and carry it...if you'll let Him. So many times we seek His hand instead of seeking His heart. God's not trying to keep His plan a secret, but sometimes we stay too busy to listen.
I'll leave with a song......Be yourself, not the you others expect you to be, but the You He created you to be! God has things that only YOU can do and He's waiting to show them to you!
In His lap until next time......
Sunday, October 16, 2011
A stop along the journey
This would have been a facebook status today, but sometimes they limit words(just depends on what mood facebook is in). It sums up my heart well as I keep walking forward, knowing what is behind me but not looking back at it. Walk forward into tomorrow knowing what you've learned from the past, but not letting it be your focus.
"God I trust you. You know my heart and you know how strong I really am. Thank you for trusting me. Now help me to walk out this trust before others. When everything comes at me at once, God I pray for peach and YOUR favor. For with your favor, will come grace and mercy from others. God it's not about me, but help me to remember to take care of me. For if I do not take the time to pour into me, I will not have anything to pour out to others. This is our journey ...Thanks for walking beside me always"
"God I trust you. You know my heart and you know how strong I really am. Thank you for trusting me. Now help me to walk out this trust before others. When everything comes at me at once, God I pray for peach and YOUR favor. For with your favor, will come grace and mercy from others. God it's not about me, but help me to remember to take care of me. For if I do not take the time to pour into me, I will not have anything to pour out to others. This is our journey ...Thanks for walking beside me always"
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Passing the Test
In school there were a lot of tests that I studied for and learned what I needed to just to pass the test. After that some of the information I forgot unless it was something I kept using(i.e. Math etc.). So many times we are like that in life. We keep talking about if I can just pass this test I'll be able to move on, if I can just pass this test and get over this mountain things will get easier....... God is not as concerned about us passing the test as He is about us applying what we have learned(walking it out) in this journey.
Once you pass the test, remember what you have learned and use it. Chances are you may have scars from the test or some markings from along the way, don't stay focused on those, but let them serve as reminders of what you have walked through. Let them serve as motivation and inspiration for what lies ahead. Take those lessons, that strength and use it as you walk out the journey. You are still His child and nothing happens to you that doesn't come through His hand.
How many times do we think we have passed the test only to find ourselves looking at the same information again later on? Maybe its not the test we see this time, but God wanting us to show others how to walk through it. As a teacher, it is difficult when along the way the students seem like they are getting it, passing their tests so to speak, but then if the information is presented in a different format on a end of the quarter test, they don't do so well. They passed the tests along the way, but when it came time to apply what they had learned, they were unable to for whatever reason.
Life is going to throw tests at your way, that's just how things go in this world. God knows what is on them and He's prepared us along the way for when the testing time comes(as long as we listen!). Take the test with pride, answer what you can, and pass the test. Then take what you learn from the test and use it as you walk out the next part of your journey. Don't have test anxiety(how many remember that from school?) about the tests that are to come, take what you have learned, and you'll soar through the journey and the tests that are still to come. In Math things build on each other, and in life they do as well. There are some tests we have to go through as baby Christians, and there are some that God knows we can't handle until we are eating meat. Learn what you can, and then focus on applying that in your journey and not on what test is coming next.
Until next time..
Safely in His lap
~Melissa
Once you pass the test, remember what you have learned and use it. Chances are you may have scars from the test or some markings from along the way, don't stay focused on those, but let them serve as reminders of what you have walked through. Let them serve as motivation and inspiration for what lies ahead. Take those lessons, that strength and use it as you walk out the journey. You are still His child and nothing happens to you that doesn't come through His hand.
How many times do we think we have passed the test only to find ourselves looking at the same information again later on? Maybe its not the test we see this time, but God wanting us to show others how to walk through it. As a teacher, it is difficult when along the way the students seem like they are getting it, passing their tests so to speak, but then if the information is presented in a different format on a end of the quarter test, they don't do so well. They passed the tests along the way, but when it came time to apply what they had learned, they were unable to for whatever reason.
Life is going to throw tests at your way, that's just how things go in this world. God knows what is on them and He's prepared us along the way for when the testing time comes(as long as we listen!). Take the test with pride, answer what you can, and pass the test. Then take what you learn from the test and use it as you walk out the next part of your journey. Don't have test anxiety(how many remember that from school?) about the tests that are to come, take what you have learned, and you'll soar through the journey and the tests that are still to come. In Math things build on each other, and in life they do as well. There are some tests we have to go through as baby Christians, and there are some that God knows we can't handle until we are eating meat. Learn what you can, and then focus on applying that in your journey and not on what test is coming next.
Until next time..
Safely in His lap
~Melissa
Thoughts from the week.....
It's been a week....It's been 9 weeks to be honest. I feel like I'm in God's boot camp and honestly that's okay with me. There are some things still to learn, some places He wants me to get to and some things He wants me to realize(and finally take to heart). I wouldn't trade this year for anything, because it has/is helping make me a better person. I ended this week exhausted but smiling(Friday will do that to you). I learned something this week though....even when everything is coming at you at once, cut yourself some slack. I am too hard on myself(shock I know). In fact, I'm harder on myself than God is, which leads to the stress, frustrations, and the overwhelmed feeling. I've been looking at things the wrong way. He started the week off talking to me about sowing and reaping, what you make happen for someone else, God will make happen for you etc. Friday came and the morning Joyce Meyer was on sowing and reaping...(yeah I know there is my neon sign)...So I started listening..So many times we look at something and think I really wish someone would.......but what are we doing to help toward that? In other words, if you want someone to listen to you, have you slowed down long enough to listen to yourself or to Him? If you want someone to pay attention to you, have you slowed down long enough to pay attention to yourself? You are on God's to-do list, are you on your own? So many times we run through the day going I wish someone would just cut me a break, show me a little grace......but we haven't showed ourselves any...
The sowing and reaping principle works both ways. Sometimes we need to sow into our own lives what we hope to reap later. I'm not saying we need to be selfish and have what about me moments all the time, but I have learned(the HARD way) that if you don't take care of you and pour into yourself no one else will. If you don't make some me time on your to do list for you, what you reap will not be pretty(i.e. frustration, stress, feeling like a failure and you can't do it). You can't do it all, the to do list will always be there, and there will always be something for you to do. The list will always get longer, that's life. Do what you can and let yourself off the hook, realizing that tomorrow is another day. God doesn't ask us for perfection, but for a heart giving it all we have. (In giving it all though, give yourself some too...)
God's mercies are new every morning, not just for everyone else, but for you as well! Forgive yourself and realize that others see your heart more than you think, because you see you are His precious child! When you are walking in His steps, it will show through(believe it and trust Him!!). I've failed at this more than I care to admit, but I don't see it as failing as long as once you fall, you get back up. Failing isn't failure if you learn from those scars. We all want to make a difference and know that we do matters, but sometimes we have to wait on Him to show that. Take those moments when you can see it and remember them on days when it's hard to see. We all need to be needed, God knows that. When you take things into your hands that are meant for His, it can only lead to hurt and frustration. Some things are meant only for Him to handle, and we have to trust Him to do that in His time. There are some things only He can take care of, and your feelings are one.
Until next time......
(which should be soon because there is a new blog coming...called Passing the Test).
The sowing and reaping principle works both ways. Sometimes we need to sow into our own lives what we hope to reap later. I'm not saying we need to be selfish and have what about me moments all the time, but I have learned(the HARD way) that if you don't take care of you and pour into yourself no one else will. If you don't make some me time on your to do list for you, what you reap will not be pretty(i.e. frustration, stress, feeling like a failure and you can't do it). You can't do it all, the to do list will always be there, and there will always be something for you to do. The list will always get longer, that's life. Do what you can and let yourself off the hook, realizing that tomorrow is another day. God doesn't ask us for perfection, but for a heart giving it all we have. (In giving it all though, give yourself some too...)
God's mercies are new every morning, not just for everyone else, but for you as well! Forgive yourself and realize that others see your heart more than you think, because you see you are His precious child! When you are walking in His steps, it will show through(believe it and trust Him!!). I've failed at this more than I care to admit, but I don't see it as failing as long as once you fall, you get back up. Failing isn't failure if you learn from those scars. We all want to make a difference and know that we do matters, but sometimes we have to wait on Him to show that. Take those moments when you can see it and remember them on days when it's hard to see. We all need to be needed, God knows that. When you take things into your hands that are meant for His, it can only lead to hurt and frustration. Some things are meant only for Him to handle, and we have to trust Him to do that in His time. There are some things only He can take care of, and your feelings are one.
Until next time......
(which should be soon because there is a new blog coming...called Passing the Test).
Saturday, October 8, 2011
This is the stuff He uses!
A friend reminded me of this song this week and it has rocked my world this week!!
It says what my heart has been saying all year!
Then this comes through on twitter last night from Joyce Meyer:
It says what my heart has been saying all year!
Then this comes through on twitter last night from Joyce Meyer:
You cannot fulfill all the expectations of everyone you know, so you might as well go ahead and disappoint them and get it over with. -Joyce
Then this came through today from Joyce's twitter:
Safe in His lap until next time..................
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
It's going to take more than that.......
I'm not exactly sure what to call this blog(I'm actually typing it without one at the moment). There has been a lot going on in the last week or so, from God showing me where I was on His to do list and where I needed to be on mine, to realizing that I'm a lot stronger than I think. God was pretty blunt to me last night and I am going to take those words and put them where I can read them everyday. The last little bit the theme has been about perspective it's all about how you look at things. Do you see your struggles as problems or possibilities? Is it a mountain or a hill? Is it a victory or a journey? So many times we look at things through our eyes and focus on how we see them instead of looking at them as how God sees them. So back to His words of wisdom last night, He plainly said "You didn't walk off a bus 13 months ago to let this defeat you now". **Side note: Read my entries on June 30 and July 1st if you are confused by what I mean.
To say I'm struggling this year would be an understand statement, but with struggles come strength that only He can give. He's the only one who can keep you walking toward the goal knowing that it's not about what the others may say, but about what He knows about you. Some journeys are just for you two, even though we try to involve others ;-). I don't like change, never had, but this year my work life has been changed upside down. Yes I'm a perfectionist and yes' I'm a people pleaser(both things God is dealing with), but my new schedule may just burn that out of me. You do what you can precious reader, but there comes a time when you have to let Him do the rest. There has to be a time when the control is no longer yours, when He takes the wheel with it all, and when you realize that's okay. He promised to walk through it with you and to keep you safe. There is a time when you realize that maybe it's not time for you to use those gifts just yet. Sometimes we know we have an ability, gift, talent etc., but when we finally start to walk into it, we may be met with resistance. It takes God to not open doors on your own. It takes God to let doors close and know that it's okay. It takes God to keep going when you are starring at the door waiting for it to one day swing open. Do what you can while you wait, and one day it will burst open and you'll be able to run through it! I saw the movie Courageous this weekend...wow! Even though it may have been directed to parents, it hit home for me. It was a challenge, despite what the day throws at you, live it for Him and live it courageously.
Please don't ever think from this blog that I've arrived anywhere. I still have days when feelings get the best of me, when I cry during my commute, when I just don't feel like doing anything, when I want to scream, when I am confused because I know I'm doing the best I can, but it still doesn't seem to be good enough for some. That's life sweet reader, He never said our feelings would be easy, but He said if we'd trust Him He'd always be there. He didn't promise us the days would always go our way, but in time He will show us how the pieces fit into the puzzle. So if you are in my everyday world, I apologize now. I'm human, but I hope that regardless of the stress I am feeling, you can see Him. My new prayer is Lord regardless of how I feel about the day whether it was a mess or a success, Shine through. I pray you see more of Him and less of Me. Give all that you are to those you come in contact with and trust God to give it back to you.
Until next time..........
Was just reminded of this video....we all have days like this!! Praise God He's always there period!
To say I'm struggling this year would be an understand statement, but with struggles come strength that only He can give. He's the only one who can keep you walking toward the goal knowing that it's not about what the others may say, but about what He knows about you. Some journeys are just for you two, even though we try to involve others ;-). I don't like change, never had, but this year my work life has been changed upside down. Yes I'm a perfectionist and yes' I'm a people pleaser(both things God is dealing with), but my new schedule may just burn that out of me. You do what you can precious reader, but there comes a time when you have to let Him do the rest. There has to be a time when the control is no longer yours, when He takes the wheel with it all, and when you realize that's okay. He promised to walk through it with you and to keep you safe. There is a time when you realize that maybe it's not time for you to use those gifts just yet. Sometimes we know we have an ability, gift, talent etc., but when we finally start to walk into it, we may be met with resistance. It takes God to not open doors on your own. It takes God to let doors close and know that it's okay. It takes God to keep going when you are starring at the door waiting for it to one day swing open. Do what you can while you wait, and one day it will burst open and you'll be able to run through it! I saw the movie Courageous this weekend...wow! Even though it may have been directed to parents, it hit home for me. It was a challenge, despite what the day throws at you, live it for Him and live it courageously.
Please don't ever think from this blog that I've arrived anywhere. I still have days when feelings get the best of me, when I cry during my commute, when I just don't feel like doing anything, when I want to scream, when I am confused because I know I'm doing the best I can, but it still doesn't seem to be good enough for some. That's life sweet reader, He never said our feelings would be easy, but He said if we'd trust Him He'd always be there. He didn't promise us the days would always go our way, but in time He will show us how the pieces fit into the puzzle. So if you are in my everyday world, I apologize now. I'm human, but I hope that regardless of the stress I am feeling, you can see Him. My new prayer is Lord regardless of how I feel about the day whether it was a mess or a success, Shine through. I pray you see more of Him and less of Me. Give all that you are to those you come in contact with and trust God to give it back to you.
Until next time..........
Was just reminded of this video....we all have days like this!! Praise God He's always there period!
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Heels dug in....
This whole blog started writing when I was headed to school yesterday. If you have seen me walking into the building or out to my car, it's quite funny. I'm loaded down more than any person should be. (Thank you Lord for a massage therapist on speed dial). He brought this verse to mine and started writing...I'm not sure He's finished
Matthew 11:28 The Message (MSG)
28-30"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."
I am so visual....last night when I was asking yet again could things get a little easier and He said nope ;-) Then He showed me a picture of Him with His heels dug in, hugging close to my backside. In other words, I'm not going anywhere at this point and neither are you. I don't know about you, but I like it when it's easy. I like living inside my comfort zone, God however has other plans. Last year was to show me how strong I can be, this year was to show me how strong I am. Sometimes the power we need from God is not His rescuing power, but His staying power. Jesus wasn't a runner and neither are we if we can keep our flesh in check. Honesty check.........that's not easy!
I don't know what those of you are reading this are dealing with at this point, but I do know this...God's got His heels dug in and He's got your back. He's holding on to you so you won't run and take the easy way out. It may seem easy at a time, but God's plans always win so learn it now and move forward. I know there are days when crying makes you feel better, when you feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, when you feel like you are going in more directions than you can, God's got a plan. It may not make sense to you right now(trust me there are days I can't see the answers either), but I've learned to trust His heart and not my own. The discipline muscle is getting stronger, and with practice He will make perfect. Until then, all we can do is the best we can do each day. Trust Him, let Him help carry some of the stress, and on days when you feel like you are dragging more around than you should have to, share with a friend, and if that doesn't work...crawl up in His lap and know He's got you.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Reflections
I know some of you have been wondering about a new blog, but to be honest He's not done writing the ones He's started. This may take a little longer, not because He's not a patient and incredible God, but because sometimes you can only apply discipline to one thing at a time. Think about that for a second, if you have had a day where its just been one thing after another, how hard is it to eat healthy and make time for exercise? Usually the stress we feel in our lives hurts one person, us. Sometimes your day keeps you so busy, that it is HARD not to get discouraged, down, and turn into that negative one. My hope is that after I'm on the other side of this mountain, I'll have more to share with you about how to keep praising regardless of what the day throws your way. Right now I'm still in the middle of it. I would be amiss to try and tell you now how to overcome your feelings when I'm still working my way through it. Be encouraged though, everyone has those days. I think God knew that from the beginning. I am amazed and humbled by how much He trusts me. This journey He and I have been on 15 months has not been wasted. After you have been through one of those "Me and God" journeys, you are more prepared to climb a mountain that's just you and Him. Feelings will keep you looking for someone to have a pity party with, but sometimes its just another part of the journey. It's not about me, it's about me and Him. He'll pour into you when He knows you are ready. If you pour into yourself before it's time, you'll still find that the pitcher may have holes. This song below has been an encouragement to me this week. We are all climbing some mountain, some of those mountains are truly mountains inside and out, some are mountains we have placed in our own paths all because we didn't read the map correctly, and some are mountains to test our endurance and develop our strength. God's started a lot of stuff, and I can't way to see how He finishes it! The best is still to come. Before I insert the video...Here is a quote from Joyce Meyer's magazine this week: "Emotions RISE UP and then move out, wanting us to follow them. When I feel that, I know I need to take action. " Lord help me to stay put unless its YOU moving out.
Until next time sweet readers!! Enjoy the week and know you were BORN to climb! What He starts, He always finishes and as long as you are still here, you are NOT done! Forgive yourself if you make a mess out of the day, know in your heart what He's called you to do and do it regardless of what anyone else says! Be the YOU He made you to be and not the YOU others may want you to be. You and You alone know what He's put in your heart to do, and He didn't put it there to just sit.
Until next time sweet readers!! Enjoy the week and know you were BORN to climb! What He starts, He always finishes and as long as you are still here, you are NOT done! Forgive yourself if you make a mess out of the day, know in your heart what He's called you to do and do it regardless of what anyone else says! Be the YOU He made you to be and not the YOU others may want you to be. You and You alone know what He's put in your heart to do, and He didn't put it there to just sit.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
From the files.......
Several new blogs are in the works, but for now here is one from the files. Our steps are not wasted as long as they point someone in His direction. Until next time precious readers............
The Victory Path (written in late 2007)
“Driving along the path with my trusty map, I was sure I could find my way to the destination, the place where X marked the spot. I loved treasured hunts and this one proved to be just as exciting, until I came to the spot. I didn’t know what to do when I got to the spot, see the map didn’t say anything about this fork that was there. Where did this second path come? The one I was on was so well lit; it had all of the conveniences of home. There were restrooms at each light, fast food restaurants every few buildings. The second one however was full of well…nothing that I could see. It reminded me of the back roads we have back at home. Roads you don’t get on, unless you are absolutely sure you don’t have to go to the bathroom, and are absolutely sure you know where you are going. They are often times not well lit, and can be twisty and curvy. Logically, realistically the decision shouldn’t have been hard to make, but I was intrigued by this other path. However I was not feeling confident enough to take that path until I saw the foot prints. These foot prints went right down the middle of the road and had a glow about them. Even though the map I had was for the more traveled path, something inside of me told me to take the other path. I fought the voice long and hard with every excuse I could come up with that seemed to be reasonably. Nothing worked; I couldn’t fight the feeling that I was supposed to take that path with the prints. So I sat the map aside and turned in the direction of the prints. With each set of prints that I passed a feeling of peace flooded my soul so strong, that it brought tears to my eyes. I knew this path was the right one to take, even if it wasn’t the way the map suggested.”
The path He leads us down may not always be the one that is the most comfortable; chances are it won’t be the one that is the most convenient either. Following His steps may not be easy, sometimes it may be up a hill or down in a valley, but a peace beyond understanding and a victory that only He can provide is found with each step. Enter into this new week following the prints He has left for you! He’ll tell you each step of the way which way to go, all He has asked us to do is listen. Think about walking along a nature trail right after the leaves change. If you had walked that same trail just a few weeks earlier it would have looked completely different. The path would have been the same, but the surroundings would look differently. With each season God brings in your life, your path may stay the same, but as you have found out this year, He changes the surroundings, just as He does in nature with the leaves. Rest in the fact knowing that you are on the right path even though it doesn’t look like you may have thought, follow His prints that He has left for you and only you and enjoy the journey!!
Your daily victory path may not be the same as anyone else, only God knows exactly what it takes each day for you to take that next step. Enjoy the day, listen for the whispers, and just keep taking one step at a time following the path that has been laid out before you. Isaiah 30:21 “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it."
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Defeat........
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Time on the treadmill
Anyone who has ever wanted to run a race knows that you can't just start out running on the track, you have to train first. For most that training comes from a routine on the treadmill. Sometimes you have a trainer there with you to tell you when to increase your speed and when to rest, sometimes you have to do it on your own. Depending on your endurance, the time on the treadmill may take longer than you planned. Running on a treadmill takes a lot of energy and even though the counter may say you are increasing in distance, you really aren't going anywhere.
Stay with me on this one.....Life is a journey. Sometimes in our journey we need to stop and have a training moment. We need to build up endurance for that next leg of the race. Sometimes we have to spend some time on the treadmill. God's still right there with us and sometimes He may increase the incline and speed, not to exhaust us or make us feel like we are going crazy, but to build up that endurance to keep going. Time on the treadmill can be difficult because you are running hard, giving it your all, and feeling like you are going no where. Hold on sweet child, the training will be over soon and the pace will slow. You'll head off the treadmill and feel ready to take on the world!
Where is this coming from you may ask? Well God knows I'm visual and need a picture to explain things. I've asked Him what was up with the intensity I've felt over the last three weeks and tonight I heard the answer. Tonight He whispered, you've been on the treadmill. Since I've started more than once a running program, this was an example I got very quickly. Running on a treadmill takes a lot of energy and can seem rather boring because you aren't going anywhere. Sometimes though we have those moments in our journey. Times when the speed increases and the incline goes higher, you take off running and giving it your all only to realize you aren't going anywhere. Those times are not easy. Some may call them tests, but I like to think of it as preparation. The treadmill explains the last few weeks for me. I've been running at a speed that is honestly not healthy. I'm not sure if my time on the treadmill is done, but I'm ready to get off and head on to the next part of this journey with Him. However, I'd rather finish the treadmill time now instead of being back on it again soon. One thing is for sure, you can't get off the treadmill and not feel stronger. (Side note...We don't arrive at our journey until we reach heaven. This journey may have more "treadmill" times, but preparation just means something new is ahead. )
Please do not misunderstand this blog. I'm not complaining about anything. I feel incredibly blessed and know that this princess is right where her Daddy wants her. God always has an answer to our questions, and He's not hiding it from us. It may not always be what we want to hear, but it's always right on time. I've learned to share what He shares with me, there may be someone out there that needs to hear it as well. If you feel like the speed has increased and you are running around like " a chicken with your head cut off" , take inventory. If you know you are where He wants you to be, then take a deep breath and keep running the training race. He's preparing you for something even greater. If you aren't sure about what part of the journey you are on...slow down and take a breathe or two...He'll let you know.
Now all this talk about the treadmill has made me think about how I need to get back on my gym routine next week........
Until next time..........
Stay with me on this one.....Life is a journey. Sometimes in our journey we need to stop and have a training moment. We need to build up endurance for that next leg of the race. Sometimes we have to spend some time on the treadmill. God's still right there with us and sometimes He may increase the incline and speed, not to exhaust us or make us feel like we are going crazy, but to build up that endurance to keep going. Time on the treadmill can be difficult because you are running hard, giving it your all, and feeling like you are going no where. Hold on sweet child, the training will be over soon and the pace will slow. You'll head off the treadmill and feel ready to take on the world!
Where is this coming from you may ask? Well God knows I'm visual and need a picture to explain things. I've asked Him what was up with the intensity I've felt over the last three weeks and tonight I heard the answer. Tonight He whispered, you've been on the treadmill. Since I've started more than once a running program, this was an example I got very quickly. Running on a treadmill takes a lot of energy and can seem rather boring because you aren't going anywhere. Sometimes though we have those moments in our journey. Times when the speed increases and the incline goes higher, you take off running and giving it your all only to realize you aren't going anywhere. Those times are not easy. Some may call them tests, but I like to think of it as preparation. The treadmill explains the last few weeks for me. I've been running at a speed that is honestly not healthy. I'm not sure if my time on the treadmill is done, but I'm ready to get off and head on to the next part of this journey with Him. However, I'd rather finish the treadmill time now instead of being back on it again soon. One thing is for sure, you can't get off the treadmill and not feel stronger. (Side note...We don't arrive at our journey until we reach heaven. This journey may have more "treadmill" times, but preparation just means something new is ahead. )
Please do not misunderstand this blog. I'm not complaining about anything. I feel incredibly blessed and know that this princess is right where her Daddy wants her. God always has an answer to our questions, and He's not hiding it from us. It may not always be what we want to hear, but it's always right on time. I've learned to share what He shares with me, there may be someone out there that needs to hear it as well. If you feel like the speed has increased and you are running around like " a chicken with your head cut off" , take inventory. If you know you are where He wants you to be, then take a deep breath and keep running the training race. He's preparing you for something even greater. If you aren't sure about what part of the journey you are on...slow down and take a breathe or two...He'll let you know.
Now all this talk about the treadmill has made me think about how I need to get back on my gym routine next week........
Until next time..........
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Honesty Check
This is not a lesson I've mastered just yet, because to be honest my flesh still screams out for this. My flesh still craves those "good jobs" and "you make a difference" etc. However God is slowly revealing His plan in all that. (It's just not an easy one to grasp). Here are some thoughts:
There comes a time when you have to be okay with the fact that you know you are doing a good job. In other words, as long as you know you are doing the best you can and giving it your all, God's good with that and you should be as well. Too many times we become frustrated because no one sees how hard we are working, but God does. The world we live in is a busy one. We will stay frustrated if we are waiting on others to give us a pat on the back or an atta girl/boy. As much as our flesh wants to know that someone sees the effort, there will eventually come a point where despite how hard you are working, no one may say anything. It all comes down to as long as He's happy, we need to be happy with ourselves as well ;-) We have to find our value in what He says about us and not in what others think about us.
Until next time............
There comes a time when you have to be okay with the fact that you know you are doing a good job. In other words, as long as you know you are doing the best you can and giving it your all, God's good with that and you should be as well. Too many times we become frustrated because no one sees how hard we are working, but God does. The world we live in is a busy one. We will stay frustrated if we are waiting on others to give us a pat on the back or an atta girl/boy. As much as our flesh wants to know that someone sees the effort, there will eventually come a point where despite how hard you are working, no one may say anything. It all comes down to as long as He's happy, we need to be happy with ourselves as well ;-) We have to find our value in what He says about us and not in what others think about us.
Until next time............
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Well.....
I wish you all knew how many times I've gone to type in something on facebook lately and thought for a minute and said, nope that's a feeling. (BTW Joyce Meyer's new book came out today and I am soo excited: Living Beyond your Feelings, it's already downloaded on my Ipad). Like today I almost posted something about walking in the rain to and fro all day, but then remembered that my friends in Texas would love some of this rain. Just to clarify from my previous post(Status-less), I am completely where God wants me for this journey in my life. Does my flesh want to fight it? Each and every step of the way, but God has a plan for this year. If nothing more than to change me, to stretch me, to grow me. Change is not my friend, but honestly who enjoys it? I can say this though, that last summer prepared for me this. I'm not the same and God's taken that and ran with it! So on to a new blog...
God and I have an unique relationship and I wouldn't trade it for a thing! I told Him a long time ago I wanted that friendship that I saw in others, I wanted that closeness, and He hasn't failed me yet ;-). Last night He started talking about discipline. That is a blog to come in the next month or so, after I walk a few things out. However, in that conversation, I was asking Him for something and I said, but God you promised, and He said what about your promises? How many times do we ask God for something without doing what He's asked us to do first? We keep expecting Him to move with nothing in return(He's not a fan of one sided relationships). How do I know this whole discipline thought/plan was God's and not mine? Because it was nothing the flesh was going to enjoy ;-) and nothing I knowingly would have felt like doing. As I said though, that's a blog for another month.
Sometimes I think God wishes we would catch up with Him. We are stuck sitting down(probably where we are comfortable) waiting on Him to come back to where we are, but He's waiting on us to catch up with Him. Let that sink in for a bit.............
You may read my blogs sometimes and go I wish I could get to that point where she is writing from. Trust me precious reader, it took 20 years and two life changing days to get me to where I am today. One day that knocks you for a loop will throw you into His arms for awhile, two days and well you get closer than you realized. You learn through those whirlwind times His voice. You learn that you can listen with just a whisper instead of looking for the earthquake. You learn that just because a day doesn't go your way, His promises are always true(and one day He'll show you how they are for your good).
Am I where I want to be? Why no, but I'm not the same I was two years ago that I can assure you. He promised He would finish what He started, and He's only just begun! I apologize now for the stress days( I don't want to say bad), that I am sure are to come. I'll try to hide them as much as possible, but my face sometimes gives it away. It's life and usually there is a blog to come after some of those. Those days happen, don't let them define who you are! Regardless of how the day goes YOU are still a daughter(or son) of the Most High! He knew how the day was going to go before it was even on the calendar, and He knew how you would act/react(and I am sure some days I make Him laugh!!).
Until next time............
God and I have an unique relationship and I wouldn't trade it for a thing! I told Him a long time ago I wanted that friendship that I saw in others, I wanted that closeness, and He hasn't failed me yet ;-). Last night He started talking about discipline. That is a blog to come in the next month or so, after I walk a few things out. However, in that conversation, I was asking Him for something and I said, but God you promised, and He said what about your promises? How many times do we ask God for something without doing what He's asked us to do first? We keep expecting Him to move with nothing in return(He's not a fan of one sided relationships). How do I know this whole discipline thought/plan was God's and not mine? Because it was nothing the flesh was going to enjoy ;-) and nothing I knowingly would have felt like doing. As I said though, that's a blog for another month.
Sometimes I think God wishes we would catch up with Him. We are stuck sitting down(probably where we are comfortable) waiting on Him to come back to where we are, but He's waiting on us to catch up with Him. Let that sink in for a bit.............
You may read my blogs sometimes and go I wish I could get to that point where she is writing from. Trust me precious reader, it took 20 years and two life changing days to get me to where I am today. One day that knocks you for a loop will throw you into His arms for awhile, two days and well you get closer than you realized. You learn through those whirlwind times His voice. You learn that you can listen with just a whisper instead of looking for the earthquake. You learn that just because a day doesn't go your way, His promises are always true(and one day He'll show you how they are for your good).
Am I where I want to be? Why no, but I'm not the same I was two years ago that I can assure you. He promised He would finish what He started, and He's only just begun! I apologize now for the stress days( I don't want to say bad), that I am sure are to come. I'll try to hide them as much as possible, but my face sometimes gives it away. It's life and usually there is a blog to come after some of those. Those days happen, don't let them define who you are! Regardless of how the day goes YOU are still a daughter(or son) of the Most High! He knew how the day was going to go before it was even on the calendar, and He knew how you would act/react(and I am sure some days I make Him laugh!!).
Until next time............
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Status-less
If you are a Facebook friend you may have noticed that I have been a little quiet lately. The turtle has gone inside it's shell for now. What led up to this status break? A little too much feeling and not enough listening. I love what I do, please understand that, but this year hasn't started off easily and is lacking the ease that usually comes by now. A part of who I am: is giving of myself whole heatedly to something(some call it giving 110%). Well in years past that meant giving to around 10-15 kids, but this year the number has grown. Yes that means more to impact etc., but if I am being honest you can only give yourself to so many before you have nothing left to give. So I have had about 3 weeks if the what about me's and the but it's not fair until I think He got irritated with me.( just like a parent who tells a child something repeatedly...you still love them but you so wish they would listen to you instead of doing it the hard way). I have questioned whether I am even making a difference and told God more than once how unfair it was, how I just wanted something that was mine and to be a part of something. to belong somewhere. ***side note before I move on...I am not perfect and don't claim to be. I want to represent Him well, but some days the flesh(aka feelings) screams louder and wins. This life is a journey. Some days we are walking along and some days we are stuck on the path and not sure when we are getting up. It's life and no matter how much I would rather just leave the turtle in it's shell, sometimes the turtle's journey(thoughts and feelings and all) can help someone out.
So Monday I finally heard Him when He said "Are you done yet?" I was like done with what? See I thought I was trusting Him with all of this, until He showed me that as long as I was still talking about(be it a status on facebook etc.) I hadn't let go completely. He can't work as long as we are trying to. He knows me so well, that He knows I keep trying longer than I probably should.(FYI He knows your heart....talking about something to a friend for prayer or to confide is one thing, talking about something because you want to have a pity party is another). He knew my heart and He knew that I was letting this stuff defeat me more than I should. Staying quiet unlocks a key to an amazing power(caution: the more determined you are to stay quiet and let Him work the more the enemy is going to try and mess with you(be it thoughts or people asking you how are you?). Has this been easy? NO! Have I done a great job? No, I've fallen down this week, but I've gotten back up. It's not about how much you fall down, but about how many times you get back up. Has anything really changed in my week? Only my reaction. There comes a time when you realize all you can do is the best you can do. He will do the rest. You have to take care of you along the way(if you don't who will?) Value yourself enough to take care of His princess(or prince).
I may stay status-less for awhile longer(no I'm not leaving facebook altogether, just being mindful of what I post). My goal in life is to show Him, if not in the walk, then at least in the falling down and getting back up. Has anything changed this week? Only my reaction and the way I try to handle it. Am I still learning this process? Yes(still falling down and getting back up). So if you have a situation that you have asked God to change more than once and it doesn't seem like things are getting any easier(in fact they may be getting worse), get quiet....chances are God wants to change YOU!
Until next time..........
So Monday I finally heard Him when He said "Are you done yet?" I was like done with what? See I thought I was trusting Him with all of this, until He showed me that as long as I was still talking about(be it a status on facebook etc.) I hadn't let go completely. He can't work as long as we are trying to. He knows me so well, that He knows I keep trying longer than I probably should.(FYI He knows your heart....talking about something to a friend for prayer or to confide is one thing, talking about something because you want to have a pity party is another). He knew my heart and He knew that I was letting this stuff defeat me more than I should. Staying quiet unlocks a key to an amazing power(caution: the more determined you are to stay quiet and let Him work the more the enemy is going to try and mess with you(be it thoughts or people asking you how are you?). Has this been easy? NO! Have I done a great job? No, I've fallen down this week, but I've gotten back up. It's not about how much you fall down, but about how many times you get back up. Has anything really changed in my week? Only my reaction. There comes a time when you realize all you can do is the best you can do. He will do the rest. You have to take care of you along the way(if you don't who will?) Value yourself enough to take care of His princess(or prince).
I may stay status-less for awhile longer(no I'm not leaving facebook altogether, just being mindful of what I post). My goal in life is to show Him, if not in the walk, then at least in the falling down and getting back up. Has anything changed this week? Only my reaction and the way I try to handle it. Am I still learning this process? Yes(still falling down and getting back up). So if you have a situation that you have asked God to change more than once and it doesn't seem like things are getting any easier(in fact they may be getting worse), get quiet....chances are God wants to change YOU!
Until next time..........
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